mr. and mrs. smith

celebrities read?

2012-01-27T08:00:00.002-06:00

I like celebrities to have an air of mystery about them. I don’t care anything for those pictures in tabloid mags that say, “Stars: they’re just like us!” because frankly, no, they’re not. I would be so disillusioned if I ever saw Nicole Kidman picking her nose or George Clooney wearing Crocs. Don’t try to convince me of how down-to-Earth you are or how you are still so surprised you get recognized in the street. You’re famous. Zac Posen does not call me to offer a dress to wear to my friend’s wedding.

Still, hearing that that you have one teeny thing in common with a celeb is so fun, right? My friend, Erin, sent these articles to me about celebrities’ favorite songs, movies (they called them “films” of course) and books. Alec Baldwin and I have the same favorite book! And Roger Federer’s favorite movie makes me love him even more…

Do you share a fave with anyone?

wish list wednesday

2012-01-25T08:59:00.000-06:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* How 'bout some actual cold weather in January? I'm practically sweating over here.

* A cool print shirt like this to spice up my usual weekend uni of top + jeans + boots.

* I LOVE the colors of this club chair! With the right throw pillow, it could go from super mod to traditional in a snap!

* Have y'all seen these? They affix to Ikea furniture to make it custom!

* A storage bench for all our blankets. This cool ikat one is from Target!

What's your wish?

bedroom re-do

2012-01-23T11:44:00.002-06:00

It's no secret that I am totally enamored of Jenny Komenda and Joanna Goddard. Fortunately, they are blissfully unaware of how stalk-y I am of their blogs. Imagine my happiness when Jenny re-decorated Joanna's bedroom! Have you seen it yet? I'm so envious of Joanna's life in NYC with her cute husband and little boy; this did NOT help.

Here's her before...

Pretty, but how cute is the after?

Joanna and Jenny both posted about it on their blogs (images from Joanna's blog), so you should read them and get inspired like I did. Kell and I (well, let's be honest - just me) are working on re-doing our bedroom (Thanks, Freddie!), and I can't quit thinking about fabric and paint and bedding! I even created a Pinterest board dedicated to it so I don't forget the stuff I like!

In other totally awesome home re-do news, check out Mary-Kathryn's uber-cool Oxford crib. Yes, that's a garage door in her kitchen! Fab, right? Go to her blog to see the whole thing. I'm telling you, it's like something out of Garden and Gun.

I'm so envious of her vision, and her adorable hubby's handyman-ness!

What's your favorite room in your house?

for a friday giggle

2012-01-20T09:44:00.001-06:00

I don't particularly care for Star Wars OR the Super Bowl, but I do love a dog AND a VW. Check out this ad scheduled to air during the game!

Have an epic weekend.

wish list wednesday

2012-01-18T10:03:00.000-06:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* That Harris would hurry home from her honeymoon!

* A cupcake from Muddy's Bake Shop in Memphis. Just go.

* A white blazer. Maybe like this one?

* Some Peanut Butter Cup Popcorn. Could you die?

* How about some snow?

What's your wish?

bored

2012-01-16T09:08:00.000-06:00

I'm one of about 5 people in my whole office at work today. I suppose what they say is true: when the cat's away, the mice will play. Needless to say, I'm finding it hard to get motivated to be productive.

Can you think of some sites that are good time wasters to help me survive the day? I know I'll be hanging out on Pinterest and Suri's Burn Book for sure.

I hope you're having a lazy MLK day!

wish list wednesday - etsy love!

2012-01-11T08:00:00.001-06:00

What Etsy items am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* I love the color combination and pattern on this pillow.

* I'm not sure what I'd do with this yellow lantern, but I love it!

* These adorable gift tags, hand made by Mary-Kathryn's talented sister-in-law Amy. The burlap is perfect.

* One of these sweet custom house portraits. She can add dogs, too!

* You could wear this cool bracelet with anything...year round!

What's your wish?

grammar nerd

2012-01-09T08:00:00.001-06:00

English was my favorite subject in high school. I loved studying grammar, and diagramming sentences made me giddy. Still does. I laughed out loud at this article about diagramming Sarah Palin's particular, ahem, "style" of speech.

Grammar is one of those thing that you don't notice until it goes terribly wrong. A person can be impeccably dressed, perfectly coiffed and have a spot-on handshake, but when he or she opens his or her mouth and says "whelp" instead of "welt" or hands in a memo incorrectly using "it's" or "its," the facade is ruined.

If you are like me (not "I"), you'll love this article as well.

Speak well, or forever hold your peace!

welcome 2012 - better late than never...

2012-01-06T08:00:00.002-06:00

Yowzaa!

Where did December go? Remember being a kid and it seemed like Christmas would NEVER get here? Maybe it’s a sign that I’m aging at a rapid pace, but man, it flew in and out to me.

I am going to admit something to you guys: I hate new years. Not New Year’s Eve, a new year. I know everyone always says they can look ahead with fresh perspective, think about all the good things that could happen and all the stuff they are looking forward to. Well, perhaps it’s my anxious nature, but I can’t help but think about all that bad things that will/could happen. I’m not going to run through the list that’s in my head; trust me, you don’t want to hear it. Plus, that’s not the operation I’m running here.

Instead, I’ve decided to make a list of things I’m looking forward to in the next few months or so. I can’t think too far past spring, so forgive my lack in forward-thinking.

The Civil Wars concert January 10

MK and I are going to see the Civil Wars in Memphis next week, and I am so jazzed! You might remember my post about them a few weeks ago. One of my resolutions for 2012 is to go to more concerts, and I think this is a great start. YAY!

My sister’s wedding January 14

I can’t believe my little sister will be a Mrs. soon! I still think of her as the little pipsqueak that I used to steal french fries from. Sweet tee, Harris. You would.

Joy the Baker’s cookbook – out February 28!

I cannot wait for this. I was so disappointed to find out that it wouldn’t be out before Christmas, but now I’m glad so I can look forward to it! I love a cookbook.

Making my master bedroom presentable

Ever since we moved into our house, I have closed the door to our bedroom whenever we have company. I finally picked out the color palette for the room, and I’m so ready to start getting stuff together. It will be so nice to have pretty bedding and curtains on the windows and coordinating bedside tables! Oh my!

What are your feelings on a new year? What are you looking forward to in 2012?

wish list wednesday

2012-01-04T08:00:00.001-06:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* That I could have gotten a few posts together last week. Sorry I left y’all hanging! I know you were totally lost. ;)

* Some of these ballet flats. I am so digging on the poppy ones!

* A new chair for my living room. I’m so enamored of the colors in this one, but frankly anything would be an improvement from the blue recliner.

* This cute shirt I spotted on Pinterest (you can follow me here!). I think it would be so cute in the summer with black shorts and wedges, too!

* A leopard scarf. Isn’t it so hard to find the exact print you want?

What’s your wish?

Joseph's Lullaby

2011-12-25T15:43:00.001-06:00

Go to sleep my Son
This manger for your bed
You have a long road before You
Rest Your little head

Can You feel the weight of Your glory?
Do You understand the price?
Or does the Father guard Your heart for now
So You can sleep tonight?

Go to sleep my Son
Go and chase Your dreams
This world can wait for one more moment
Go and sleep in peace

I believe the glory of Heaven
Is lying in my arms tonight
Lord, I ask that He for just this moment
Simply be my child

Go to sleep my Son
Baby, close Your eyes
Soon enough You'll save the day
But for now, dear Child of mine
Oh my Jesus, Sleep tight

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

look at these nuts!

2011-12-22T08:26:00.003-06:00

Here are a couple of last-minute nut recipes for gifts, gatherings or gorging.

Freddie's Chocolate Peanut Clusters

12 oz white chocolate chips (did you know white chocolate isn't chocolate at all?)
12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 lb. salted peanuts

Combine and melt in microwave (2-3 minutes, checking every 30 seconds to make sure it doesn't burn) stir until no lumps. Mix in peanuts and spoon clumps onto wax paper on cookie sheets. Chill to harden and serve.

Rosemary Roasted Cashews

1 1/4 pounds cashew nuts
2 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh rosemary leaves
1/2 teaspoon cayenne
2 teaspoons dark brown sugar
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 tablespoon melted butter

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.

Place the nuts on an ungreased baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes until they are warmed through. Meanwhile, combine the rosemary, pepper, sugar, salt and butter in a large bowl. Toss the warm nuts with the rosemary mixture until the nuts are completely coated. Serve warm.

**Update: I made these last night, and they are AWESOME! Don't get the salted cashews - look for the unsalted ones. It makes a difference. PS - after you take the cashews out of the oven, toss them in the butter first to coat. Then, toss with the rosemary mixture. That will help the spices stick.

Happy Christmas!

wish list wednesday

2011-12-21T08:00:00.001-06:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* An unlimited supply of Archipelago Vanilla & Brown Sugar lotion. It smells so wonderful and reminds me of Haley.

* That time would slow down! I'm not ready for Christmas to come and go yet!

* I saw these shoes out shopping last week, and I can't quit thinking about them.

* A new iPhone case. I kind of love this "crocheted" one.

* A "Happy Birthday" to Jesus - the reason for the season! Thanks to his abundant blessings, I don't want for anything, but it sure is fun to wish, right?

What's your wish?

Christmas dessert party

2011-12-19T15:08:00.003-06:00

I had a little Christmas party at my house Friday for my mom, aunt and cousin, and we had a great time! They shopped (I have no money with which to shop), we opened presents and giggled a lot. Isn’t that what family is all about?

As I tend to do, I went a tad overboard with the after-lunch desserts. Here’s what I made if you’d like to know…

Christmas Potpourri
Ok, obviously we didn’t eat this, but it made my house smell like Christmas! Isn’t it funny how certain scents just mean something? This mix you can make once, leave it out and turn the stove on whenever you want; just add water when it needs it! Next year, I think I’ll use a little baby crock pot so I don’t have one eye out of commission on my stove.

Red Velvet Mini Cupcakes (no pic)

Truthfully, I can’t tell if I bombed these or if I just didn’t like the recipe. Red Velvet is my favorite cake flavor, and I really wanted these to be the star of my little show. I have to admit I killed it on the frosting, but the cake part blew. My kitchen sink looked like someone tried to cover up a murder with all the blood-red batter everywhere. Next time I’m using this recipe. I might do that this week to try to redeem myself in my mind.

Mini Treasure Brownies

These are such an old stand-by recipe for me. I made them for a party a couple of years ago, and they were so easy and popular, I’ve made them many times since. The name is kind of stupid, so I’d love to change that if you can think of something good. This go-round, I used Reese’s cups and those peppermint Hershey’s Kisses. Festive!

Angel Food Cake Skewers

I pinned these a while ago, and wouldn’t you know, there’s not a recipe attached to the pin – just a picture. Oh well, not like a monkey couldn’t figure these out. But for your convenience, here’s what I did:

½ of a store-bought angel food cake

1 pint strawberries, washed and stems removed

Nutella (duh)

Short skewers (they were about 7-8”)

I cut 1-inch slices of the angel food cake and cut those slices in half. Then I “broke” the slices into cubes – that was much easier than trying to cut with a knife. On each skewer, I put 3 cubes of cake with a strawberry between each cube (that’s 2 if you’re counting). I laid out all the skewers on wax paper and heated some Nutella in a double boiler (Don’t even think about trying to heat it in the microwave. It’s a disaster, plus you just waste good Nutella – a crime punishable by death). When it had loosened up some, I poured the Nutella into a small Ziploc bag and cut a tiny corner off. I then piped/drizzled the melted Nutella over the skewers and put them in the fridge until I was ready to serve them.

We listened to my playlist for the season, and there you go! A Christmas dessert party in a nutshell! Can you believe Jesus’s birthday is Sunday? I don't want it to come because then it's over!

christmas playlist 2011

2011-12-16T08:00:00.002-06:00

“Zat you, Santa Claus?” by Louis Armstrong
“God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen” by Barenaked Ladies and Sarah MacLaughlan
The Night Before Christmas” by Brandon Heath
“What Child Is This?” by Third Day
“What Christmas Means to Me” by Stevie Wonder
“Baby, It’s Cold Outside” by Zooey Deschanel and Leon Redbone
“O Come, O Come Emmanuel” by The Civil Wars
“Merry Christmas from the Family” by Robert Earl Keene
“Joseph’s Lullaby” by MercyMe
“O Holy Night” by Selah
“That Spirit of Christmas” by Ray Charles

well, isn't that clever?

2011-12-15T13:51:00.000-06:00

image from you are my fave

Look at what Melanie made? Isn't she the smartest/cutest/darlingest?

Treat boxes made from, wait for it...aluminum foil boxes!

Adorable, clever and very green!

wish list wednesday

2011-12-14T08:00:00.003-06:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* How cute are these 12 Days of Christmas plates? (Even though I loathe the song...)

* To make some homemade marshmallows. This recipe looks like a good one. Fran swears it's easy...

* This super little glittery bag. It would be so hard not to carry it every day!

* This book spotted on A Cup of Jo. Dogs rule!

* A classic Christmas movie film festival with Rudolph, Charlie Brown, The Grinch (the original, NOT the Jim Carrey one...), Elf and Christmas Vacation. What are your faves?

What's your wish?

tis better to give

2011-12-13T09:00:00.000-06:00

image from you are my fave

I’ve been told on more than one occasion that I’m hard to shop for. I disagree, but that’s probably because I know in my head what I like and what I secretly want. And if we’re being honest here, and we are, there are often things that I want and want to give, but financial means prevent me from doing so.

So, here’s a thought: if you could give anyone ANY gift EVER, no matter the cost, what would you give?

it's beginning to look a lot like Pinterest

2011-12-09T08:00:00.010-06:00

Who up in here is digging on Pinterest? I am (follow me!). Something about it has re-energized my creative spirit, and that makes me happy.

Last year, I didn’t do any Christmas decorating other than a tree. I kind of thought it was pointless since only Kell and I would see it, but turns out, I was a little depressed about it. So this year, I knew it was on like donkey kong. And where’s a girl to go for inspiration? Duh.

All that said, would you like to see my mantle?

I can’t take credit for the look, and please excuse the poor photo. I had to take the picture with my phone, and there’s just not a lot of natural light in my living room. Here’s the mantle muse (image from there, too)…

What do you think? Did I get close?

I have to admit, when I first start copying a project, I can have blinders on for everything except what’s exactly like in the original. I searched high and low for the candlesticks, but they were nowhere to be found. (What’s the deal with no one selling hideous glass candlesticks anymore?) I even scoured our local Hancock for fabric just like what’s in the picture, but that didn’t happen either. When I got over the hurdle of not executing a carbon copy, it was much easier to visualize (and breathe).

Wanna know how I did it? As if it’s really complicated.

The trees are just floral foam trees from Michaels, and that’s where the garland is from too – it’s actually yarn from the knitting section. The only reason I even recognized it from the picture is because I used the same stuff in pink for a baby shower this summer. The sequined garland is from Big Lots – don’t you dare knock that place. I tore strips of fabric for the trees and pinned them on with those pins that have the little white balls on the top. It didn’t matter if it matched up perfectly; in fact, I didn’t want it to. I like the overlap here and there – it reinforces that it was handmade.

The blue trees are circles of felt pinned with the same pins. I saw the idea here and went along with that tutorial, except I used pinking shears. Not sure if you can even tell, but I think it adds another layer of cuteness, and as we all know, cuteness counts.

The other stuff I had – the window is old, the “MERRY” I got years ago when I lived in Greenwood, and I have no recollection of where the glittery trees came from.

I have to say, I’m proud of my little mantle, and I’m so glad I decorated this year. I feel like much less of a Grinch.

Have you decorated yet?

wish list wednesday

2011-12-07T08:42:00.000-06:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* That someone would tell me to go home today. We got some snow this morning!

* I'm certain I could find a spot for these gold pinecones around my house. You could leave them out all winter!

* That there were such thing as Nutella chips. Probably good there's not (that I know of)...

* These awesome Uggs. They're actually cute!

* To come home to some of this Holiday Peppermint Bark. Hint, hint...

What's your wish?

look what I just made!

2011-12-02T16:16:00.001-06:00

Check this out!

I just made two of these lighted "trees" from a couple of tomato cages (about $2.50 each) and Christmas lights. Sadly, I can't take credit for the idea (yay Pinterest), but it was one of the fastest, cheapest projects I've ever done.

What do you think? I'm going to put them on either side of my front door, but I'm still not sure what's going on the door...

It's beginning to look a lot like you-know-what...

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

look at those nuts!

2011-12-02T08:00:00.000-06:00

Here are a couple of last-minute nut recipes for gatherings, gifts or gorging.

Freddie's Chocolate Peanut Clusters

12 oz white chocolate chips
12 oz semi sweet chocolate chips

Combine and melt in microwave (2-3 minutes, check every 20-30 seconds to make sure the chocolate doesnt burn) stir until no lumps. Mix in peanuts and spoon clumps onto wax paper on cookie sheets. Chill to harden and serve.

Ina's Rosemary Roasted Cashews

1 1/4 pounds cashew nuts
2 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh rosemary leaves
1/2 teaspoon cayenne
2 teaspoons dark brown sugar
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 tablespoon melted butter

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.

Place the nuts on an ungreased baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes until they are warmed through (keep an eye on them!). Meanwhile, combine the rosemary, pepper, sugar, salt and butter in a large bowl. Toss the warm nuts with the rosemary mixture until the nuts are completely coated. Serve warm.

Happy Christmas!

wish list Wednesday - cell phone edition!

2011-11-29T22:06:00.001-06:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* A free pass to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. $85 is a bit much...

* That I could figure out how to add links on this darn thing. Did it work? ;)

* For all of you to download the new Etsy app! Finally!

* Some cute, long scarves like the ones from Madewell.

* To come home with a Christmas tree waiting on me!

What's your wish?

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

thankful thursday

2011-11-24T08:00:00.002-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving! My favorite holiday!

I’ve seen something on Pinterest that asks, “what if you woke up tomorrow morning with only the things you thanked God for today?” I don’t know about you, but that stopped me in my tracks. Because let’s face it – we all have it pretty good. I have an embarrassment of blessings for which I am thankful, but I often take for granted.

Here are just a few (in no particular order)…

My sweet husband. I can really be a handful sometimes. I’m messy, kind of lazy and my mood can turn on a dime. But Kell is so patient and even. He makes for such balance in our home.

Pets! Y’all knew I wouldn’t get far in this list without mentioning them, especially since today is their 5th birthday! I believe that all good things come from God and that He created Olive and Charlie just for us. I know they’re not human children, but for now, they’re all we’ve got, and they bring us a lot of joy.

A good job. I wake up 5 mornings out of the week and go to a job that provides, gives me opportunities and where I’m surrounded by good, supportive people. So many Americans don’t have this luxury, and I try to remind myself of this when my alarm goes off.

A loving family. I can’t imagine what it would be like to not want to be with my family during the holidays. I could call my parents right now, and they would drop everything to help me or my sister. And although it took us moving out of my parents’ house for Harris and me to like each other, I really think she is about the coolest, kindest, most fun person I know. Not to mention incredible in-laws!

Good friends. I really don’t like (most) country music; it makes my ears bleed. But, some of my friends went to a Reba McIntire concert last weekend and wanted me to go with them, even after complaining for about 3 months. Misery loves company!

5 senses. I can see, hear, smell, touch and taste. I take these for granted probably most of all.

A loving God. We’re not meant to understand everything, but I know God’s hands are all over it. I’m so thankful I can go to Him at any moment in prayer, and He hears every word.

Healthy body. Sure I don’t take care of it like I probably should, but I try to appreciate the blessings of being able to go to work and not have to be in a hospital bed or worry every day about getting sick.

A house. We have a roof over our heads, four walls, grass on the ground and air and heat we can turn on and off for comfort (even though Kell is a bit of a AC/heat dictator). We live in a safe neighborhood with courteous and kind neighbors. Not sure what they’d say about us…

America. No matter your politics, America is the greatest country in the world. Bar none. We have so many freedoms that others only dream about, and we’re protected by the best military in the universe. USA! USA!

For what are you thankful?

"Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations."

Psalm 100:4-5

wish list wednesday

2011-11-23T08:00:00.002-06:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* This Harry Potter mug. If you have to ask, you wouldn't understand. (be sure to read what it does!)

* A hot chocolate party! Wouldn't this be such a fun end to a progressive dinner?

* Some vision for decorating my home for Christmas. I'm so overwhelmed!

* Speaking of Christmas, I can see this topper on a sweet little Charlie Brown tree.

* That you'd come back tomorrow to see my annual Thankful Thursday post. After a year of wishing, I love to give thanks!

What's your wish?

yowzaa!

2011-11-21T10:20:00.000-06:00

Beyonce kills it again in maternity attire. Is there anything she can't do?

Photo from Suri's Burn Book - a hilarious blog that has been sucking the time from my work day. Check it out if you like to giggle.

the psychology of i'm sorry

2011-11-18T08:00:00.002-06:00

It sucks to mess up.

Like, really sucks.

To know that you’ve missed the mark on something or disappointed someone is one of life’s stings. Whenever I do it, I literally feel sick. My tummy hurts, my palms start to sweat and I can’t think of anything else. I’m not sure if it’s the oldest child syndrome or just my personal anxiety level, but something in me can’t let it go until I know (for dead certain) those I’ve wronged have. Most of the time, I’m way more hurt by it than the people I transgress, but that doesn’t make me feel any better. Nothing makes me feel worse than to disappoint someone or hurt someone’s feelings. It’s the pits.

If nothing else, I try to take it as an opportunity to really apologize to someone. For me, an effective apology can wipe away a multitude of mistakes, but just like your Love Language, everyone likes to hear “I’m sorry” differently. And you know how much I subscribe to the Love Language psychology…

I took this quiz a few months ago, and I think it’s as interesting as the Love Language quiz. (Haven’t taken it yet? Get enlightened here.) Choose how you would react in a series of scenarios and then find out how you like to be apologized to. Fascinating and so helpful if you can get your friends and family to take it, too!

Sorry if this is a heavy subject for a Friday, but friends can talk about this stuff, right?

I hope you have a happy-go-lucky weekend!

wish list wednesday

2011-11-16T08:00:00.003-06:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* That I could walk to my car after work and arrive home before dark.

* This cool map to chart my American domination.

* I adore this stripedy sequin-y top.

* Another free Avett Brothers concert. Bulldog Bash was insanely crowded!

* The complete Harry Potter movie collection. I can't wait to see When Harry Left Hogwarts...

What's your wish?

***a note from the author: I set this as a scheduled post, and it didn't work properly! It switched over to a draft. Any of you know how to fix that?

i'm so excited, i might pass out...

2011-11-14T11:21:00.000-06:00

I've already watched this like 10 times today.

Have you read The Hunger Games?

nostalgia

2011-11-11T08:00:00.001-06:00

Harris and I love to reminisce. Fortunately, our childhoods give us a lot of material. Sometimes she and I will email back and forth all day about things that we remember fondly from decades ago. Maybe it's food, a person, a TV show or movie, or just something that made us feel weird to see decades later. I won't leave you hanging anymore; here are a few things I remember fondly...

Fruity Pebbles remind me of going to the beach with my family and my Mimi. My mom always thought it was so funny and strange that Mimi ate Fruity Pebbles during weeks like those.

We played a LOT of video games. Mario Bros. (1, 2 and 3), Tetris, Dr. Mario...you name it. I bet I could still remember the "secrets," too.

Boiled peanuts will always remind me of going to Dudy Noble Field with my dad. There are some pretty cute pictures of us there, one of which Harris has her beloved Pound Purry "Kitty" with her.

What girl doesn't get nostalgic about Barbies? I could have (and probably did) played with my Barbies all day, every day. We even had the house with the elevator. I think I might have pushed it over on Harris at some point...

I watched a tape (yes, a tape) of old-school Winnie the Pooh for years. The only thing that stopped me watching it was the wear and tear on the VHS. I still love it. Pooh-koo clock? Come ON!

Isn't it funny what sticks with some people. Do you ever get nostalgic? If so, about what?

wish list wednesday

2011-11-09T08:00:00.002-06:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

image from here

* Soup weather. I feel like I'm being teased...

* That the Christmas cards I want weren't so darn expensive.

* A Bulldog miracle on Saturday!

* This gorgeous sequined dress. Yowzaa!

* About a million feet of this felt garland. Can you tell I'm ready for the holidays?

What's your wish?

wish list wednesday

2011-11-02T09:06:00.000-05:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

image from here

* Motivation to run today. It's so much more fun to put on a sweatshirt and be a lazy bones.

* One of these sandwiches for lunch. It calls for two (yes, two) sticks of butter.

* To survive my Mistletoe Marketplace shifts this week. Those girls are INTENSE.

* The Delta Magazine Cookbook! I'm so excited it's finally out!

* One or two or all of the pieces from Kim Dulaney's Etsy shop, Fortune. (spotted on the ever-darling You Are My Fave).

What's your wish?

boo!

2011-10-31T09:31:00.000-05:00

The night is dark
and the goblins are out,
and the witches and black cats
are prowling about.

And costumed creatures
the strangest I've seen,
are knocking on doors
'cause tonight's Halloween!

wish list wednesday

2011-10-26T08:00:00.002-05:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

image from here

* One of these clever street sign pillows. Wouldn't they make a great housewarming gift?

* A cupcake. Right here. Right this second.

* This cute table lamp. I love the circles!

* I saw these booties a few weeks ago, and I can't quit thinking about them...

* That I didn't loooooove Halloween candy. The grocery store is killing me!

What's your wish?

copy cat chic

2011-10-25T14:13:00.000-05:00

JBrand skinnies, $176, Anthro

Old Navy jeggings, $34.94

on my recent playlist

2011-10-24T11:00:00.000-05:00

“New Slang” – The Shins
“It Girl” – Jason Derulo
“Can’t Force a Dance Party” – Dent May
“Countdown” – Beyonce
“Houdini” – Foster the People
“It Don’t Come Easy” – Ringo Starr
“Love You Like a Love Song” – Selena Gomez
“Ghosts” – The Head & the Heart
“Caroline” – Old Crow Medicine Show
“Skyscraper” – Demi Levato
“Falling” – The Civil Wars
“Loaded” – The Wood Brothers
“Oh My God” - Kassidy

What's your favorite song du jour?

gallery walls

2011-10-21T08:00:00.000-05:00

Home décor is always a work in progress, isn’t it?

I’ll think something in my home looks really great for a few months or more, and then one day, I decide I’m totally over it and need a new look. Well, I’m there.

If you’ve seen my house before, you probably remember an obnoxiously huge bare wall. I had a couple of large pieces of art there, and I kind of hate them now. What else can you do with an enormous wall? A gallery wall, of course!

My Pinterest followers may have noticed I have an entire board dedicated to gallery walls, simply because each is totally different than the next (which is what I LOVE about them). There are perfectly matching ones, some have completely straight lines, and lots use the same frames and mats. Y’all know I could never get anything to match OR be completely straight, so I’m drawn to the more fancy-free walls.

Here are some of my favorites I’ve found…

I just love this room as a whole.

So many gallery walls I've seen are on light-colored walls. This is more workable for me.

I love how this one isn't just paintings or prints. That bust is cool!

Jenny's (aka LGN) gallery wall in her own home. Look at all the different textures and sizes and colors! She can do no wrong.

Another green wall.

I love how low these are hung. I have a chair rail, so I'm not sure if I could make this work.

I’ve already started collecting little pieces here and there, but I want to do it NOW! Do you love a gallery wall? If so, what kind? If not, why not?

just a funny doggy video for your thursday...

2011-10-20T08:00:00.002-05:00

If you haven't seen this, you'll love it. If you have, just watch it again; it never gets old.

wish list wednesday

2011-10-19T08:00:00.002-05:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

image from here

* The new Southern Living Style book. Who doesn't love Southern Living?

* That I could have a list of all the songs on Pandora I've given a thumbs up. iTunes is missing out.

* This cute ring with the little fox on it. I love his perky ears!

* That Mindy Kaling and I were friends in real life instead of in my head. Her blog is a riot. Seriously.

* To give (or receive!) one of these adorable letterpress boomboxes. Put a cute prize inside, and DONE.

What's your wish?

fill in the blank

2011-10-17T16:30:00.000-05:00

1. The most selfless thing I've ever done was… I really can’t think of anything at the moment. I do a lot more selfish things than selfless, I think.

2. When it comes to working out, I am really miserable. I don’t do it often enough, but when I do, I am constantly wondering why anyone would do this to themselves on purpose.

3. A woman should always write timely thank-you notes, feel pretty, know how to shake hands, have clean fingernails and appropriately groomed eyebrows, be tough when necessary and ladylike always.

4. I wish I could be more musical. I would love to be able to sing and play guitar at dark pubs.

5. A best friend is someone who is honest with you if you’ve gained weight but reminds you that you’re cute anyway.

6. I can't get enough of re-decorating my home in my brain, Storage Wars, Modern Family and red seedless grapes.

7. This weekend I am going to a lakeside wedding. Whatever shall I wear?!

Your turn...

wish list wednesday

2011-10-12T08:00:00.002-05:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

image from here

* That my favorite foodie treats weren't the worst things for me! It should be completely acceptable to eat an entire baguette as a snack. Right, MK?

* This darling romper from my favorite local boutique in Ridgeland, Libby Story. I cannot quit looking at it!

* That I liked pumpkin. It's everywhere this time of year, and I feel left out.

* Cold enough weather to get to wear scarves like this one.

* Some of these pretzel tots. I don't love a regular crunchy pretzel, but I think I could get behind these.

What's your wish?

quiet time

2011-10-11T10:50:00.001-05:00

wish I were here...wherever it is...

I may have told you this before, but I think I require more alone time than most people. I think it's because deep down, I'm really an introvert (those of you that know me best are not surprised).

Every once in a while, (ok, more often than that) I need a day just to myself with no human interaction. It's not that I'm sad or down or depressed. Just the opposite, actually: sometimes it takes me a few hours of quiet to totally recharge my social-interaction batteries. I honestly think it's the only time my brain is truly at rest. And don't ask me to complete a task just because I happen to be at home; I may get fussy.

Today is one of these special days. I've been with a media group since Sunday, and although I'm having a great time and getting to see some really good friends, while they're on a canoe in the Mississippi River, I've so been looking forward to spending just a few hours doing all the quiet things that I like to do - blogging, reading and watching TV to name a few (Food Network is on right now). I've even already taken a walk, and I may take another one later. Then again, I may not.

Friends, do you ever feel this way? Are you an introvert like me? What do you do on your own "me days?"

i can't quit listening...

2011-10-07T08:00:00.003-05:00

... to The Civil Wars!

I saw a tweet from Kendy months ago about their new album, and I finally downloaded it last night. Joy's voice is so unique and beautiful, and I think John Paul (he's Southern!) kinda looks like Johnny Depp (swoon).

Do you have any other musical recommendations for me?

wish list wednesday

2011-10-05T08:53:00.000-05:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* That I could dance like Heather Morris (Brittany) on Glee! That girl can bust a move!

* This amazing mirror. Wonder how it would look above my fireplace?

* Some wedge booties. How awesome are these?

* This cute little pumpkin for my fall table.

* That I could work outside today. Hooray for pleasant weather!

What's your wish?

who am i?

2011-10-03T08:00:00.004-05:00

Now that it’s finally October, it’s high time to talk about Halloween. I’ve always kind of liked it, even though when I was a kid my mom would never let me be a witch (always wanted to). I love to ask Kell what he’s going to dress up as and make suggestions to others. I rarely don a costume myself, but it’s so much fun to think about them!

OK, time for the crazy: my costume idea for this year came to me in a dream. Seriously. Want to know what it is?

SLASH. Can you believe I’ve never thought of this before? I totally have the hair, and I can dig up a top hat and a guitar and a pretend nose ring!

What are you going to be for Halloween? Do you love it or loathe it?

joanna's guide to NYC

2011-09-30T08:00:00.006-05:00

adorable photo from here on Jo's equally adorable blog

Friends, have you ever been to New York? I've had the opportunity to go a couple of times for work (once at Christmastime!), and it really is so great. I'm a huge believer in the education that travel provides, and as an American, it's one of those places you just have to go.

Jo shares her favorite places to eat, stay, even play! One of my (irrational, ridiculous) fears when I travel is looking like a tourist. I can't wait to see what she says about that!

Where's your favorite American vacay spot? I still can't get over Charleston...

Be sure to come back on Monday when I reveal what my Halloween costume will be this year (that is, if I get invited to a party... hint, hint)!

cover

2011-09-29T11:30:00.000-05:00

How dare someone cover Adele? Wait, this is incredible...

Spotted on one of my favorite music blogs, Live in the Sounds.

wish list wednesday

2011-09-28T09:19:00.000-05:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* SLEEP. Enough said.

* Some "football game" dresses. I would be all over this one if it weren't almost $300.

* That someone around me would have a Halloween party and invite me. I have a killer costume in mind.

* A cute iPad sleeve. There are some awesome ones on Etsy, of course.

* Money to shop for fall clothes. What did I even wear last year?

What's your wish?

seeing red

2011-09-23T08:00:00.010-05:00

I have always worn red lipstick. Not every day mind you, but since late high school and early college, I've been known to slap some red right on the kisser. And it seems like every fall, red lips seem to come back around, which makes me super excited.

A lot of girls I know are intimidated by red lips and don't think they can pull them off. Like with anything you're not used to, I say, "act like you know what you're doing, and everyone will think you do."

The keys to perfect red lips are 1) getting the color right for your skin tone, and 2) application. It may seem silly - we all know how to put on lipstick - but with red, you have to take a little more care. I love a makeup tutorial video, so here are a couple great ones:

Choosing your red (Michelle Phan videos are great):

Flawless application (this one is long, but helpful):

Here are some ladies in red that I LOVE!
Anne's fair skin looks perfect with red lips. It's my favorite look for her.

I love this picture of Kimmy because her lips are the focus. She rarely tones the eye makeup down, but it looks great!

My girl, Emma Watson, keeps her short hair from looking too boyish with a dark red lip stain.

And who can argue with Marilyn?

Ok, so now that it's officially fall, who's going to wear red lips this weekend? I am!

wish list wednesday

2011-09-21T17:43:00.000-05:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

photo from here

* That I hadn't forgotten it was Wednesday!

* A cool patterned rug like this one.

* These awesome cashmere TOMS. Is $140 excessive?

* That I had a kid to put in this little lion coat. Look at the little claws! Raaaahhhrrr!

* Good weather this weekend for my first home football game! Go Dawgs!

What's your wish?

sweet

2011-09-19T10:31:00.000-05:00

photo from here

Why are French fries so good?

Ok, so I know why, but I just wish I didn't like them. Honestly, I don't know if I've ever met a fry I didn't like. I'm trying to think...

If I had my druthers, I would eat McDonald's fries every afternoon with a big Diet Dr. Pepper. But since that's never going to happen, I decided to look for a more figure-friendly option. Enter sweet potato fries.

Now of course I'd rather them be well, fried, but that's not going to happen. So last night, I went on a search for a crispy, oven-baked, sweet potato fry recipe. I found this one here, and had some success with it, but I am still not bowled over.

Suggestions? What are your thoughts on sweet potato fries?

calling all animal lovers

2011-09-16T08:00:00.002-05:00

As if I need another reason to love Anthropologie...

They're hosting pet adoption events and supply drives in their stores across the country! The Ridgeland store is collecting food and supplies tomorrow, but you can see what all the other stores have going on here.

Make some tails wag!

happy birthday

2011-09-15T08:00:00.003-05:00

To my mom, who still squeals over Paul McCartney and taught her daughter to do the same.

I love you, Marmie!

wish list wednesday

2011-09-14T08:00:00.002-05:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* To shake this sore throat. I'm not in pain right now, just annoyed.

* A bright fainting sofa like this one to fancy-up my master bedroom. That tufting is incredible!

* Unlimited iTunes credits.

* This awesome tunic. I love the colorblocking!

* An all-expenses-paid getaway with the hubs...just the two of us. Greece perhaps?

What's your wish?

sick day

2011-09-12T13:48:00.000-05:00

I'm at home today with a sore throat. Now, before you start to think that I'm a wimp, let it be known that I have a media tour later this week, and I simply can't miss it. So, I'm lying around with my puppies today watching movies and Food Network. I think ice cream is in order for tonight.

What makes you feel better when you're sick?

ten years later

2011-09-11T08:00:00.001-05:00

I don’t remember what the weather was like. I don’t remember what I had on. I don’t remember what time I heard.

I do remember Emily Jones Hutton coming into my bedroom at the Chi O house and telling me something happened to the World Trade Center in New York. I remember her telling me that her dad thought it happened because America is friends with Israel. I remember turning on the TV immediately, but I don’t remember what I saw then.

I had to go to Mississippi History in Allen Hall at 9:30, and I remember the buzz in the halls and in the classroom. Talk of the first (North) tower being hit, then the second (South). The second tower collapsed, followed a few minutes later by the first. I don’t remember another thing about class that day – what we talked about or whether the teacher showed up. I don’t even remember how or when I heard about the crashes into the Pentagon or the field in Shanksville, Penn.

After class, I met up with Kell at a shuttle stop, but I don’t remember which one. We sat glued to the TV that entire afternoon, watching Rudy Guiliani walk through the dusty streets of Manhattan with some other men in suits and hard hats. People were running everywhere, weeping, covered in grey. I remember all the printer paper all over the streets and huge clouds consuming all the paths and alleyways.

I remember skipping Speech that day (I was even on the schedule to deliver a speech), but I decided to attend my Newswriting class, simply because of the subject. Classmates were looking at each other, confused, shocked, talking about what they’d seen on TV. I remember our teacher saying we needed to pray for the victims and their families and the leadership of battered New York City and our vulnerable country.

I’ve heard so many people say they remember every moment of September 11, 2001. Unfortunately, I don’t. There are so many elements of that day that have escaped me.

But what I do remember, what’s burned in my brain, is the image of the firefighter going up the stairs of the WTC, his eyes locked forever in that photo, against the hysterical workers going down. I remember our President standing atop a pile of rubble, his arms around workers, declaring that our great nation would not be defeated by these acts of terrorism. I remember the unity that swamped us all. Americans. Not red or blue or Democrat or Republican. I remember Congress singing “God Bless America” on the steps of the Capitol. I remember hearing Paul Simon sing “The Boxer” on SNL that Saturday, accompanied by a trumpeter who worked for the NYPD.

How, in only ten years could so much have happened, yet so many things stay the same? What happened to the “Never Forget” posters and the newspaper flags we hung in our windows? Sure, we’re not all New Yorkers. We don’t walk past Ground Zero every day. Most of us didn’t lose a loved one. But moments, days like September 11, 2001 define a people and a nation and a world. We swore we’d always remember what it felt that day to be just an American.

Ten September 11ths later, we are all still Americans. We got Bin Laden. Contrary to what we hear on the news or read in papers, magazines or on the internet, it still doesn’t matter if we’re red, blue, Democrat or Republican. What does matter is how we treat each other, how we treated each other on September 12. There’s a reason some memories stay while others dissolve. Time protects us from much but cultivates what’s important.

Remember today, every day, what is truly, completely, absolutely important.

don't feel like working today...

2011-09-09T09:18:00.000-05:00

I'd much rather spend my day gazing longingly at the Missoni for Target collection. Have you seen it? Looks incredible, just like all the cheap/chic Target collections!

I am particularly eyeing these items...

This throw has so many great colors. You could plan a whole room around it!

I need some cool barware! This etched glass is awesome. Chec out the stem of that 'tini glass!

Emma Roberts totally works this cardi. Maybe I should pick up a yellow belt while I'm there, too.

Target shoes often hurt my feet, but I think these would be worth it. Beauty is pain!

Remember I've been wishing for a cool scarf? These might just fit the bill.

Everything looks just so cool to me. The colors, chevron stripe, retro vibe - I love it all. I guarantee I'll have an excuse to be at my Target at 8:00 Tuesday morning when the collection is in stores.

What are your plans this weekend? Put on a cute outfit and go somewhere! I plan to! And please come back on Sunday for a special September 11 post.

Have a great one, chickadees!

wish list wednesday

2011-09-07T08:00:00.004-05:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* That I could do the perfect winged eye a la Nicole Richie.

* Vintage scarf to frame for my gallery wall. There are so many great ones on Etsy, and I particularly like this one from my favorite store in London.

* That this fall weather would stick around. My hopes aren't up, though.

* The Design*Sponge at Home book. If you're a fan of the blog, you'll most definitely love the paper version.

* That I had plenty of money to shop online at ZARA today. It's their first day of website shopping!

What's your wish?

beer + cheese dip

2011-09-06T10:01:00.000-05:00

Hello friends!

I hope everyone had a most enjoyable and safe Labor Day holiday. Few things brighten my spirit as greatly as a day off.

Kell and I spent the weekend with his parents in Greenville where we ate too much and watched too much football. (Go Dawgs!) Well, to me it was too much. Kell can't get enough.

Speaking of football, Delta Magazine this month has several great dips that would be perfect for a tailgate. I made this one, and it was delicious! If you like beer, that is...

Beer and Cheese Dip

1 (8-oz.) block cream cheese, softened
1 (8-oz.) block extra sharp cheddar cheese, grated
3/4 c. beer, divided
1 1/2 teaspoons dried mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 garlic clove, chopped
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/8 teaspoon salt

Cut cream cheese into chunks and place in food processor. Add 1/2 c of beer. Pulse until smooth. Gradually add small amounts of grated cheddar, pulsing until combined. Add remaining beer and all other ingredients and blend well. Chill until ready to serve. Serve with pretzels.

** I don't have a food processor (weird, I know), so I made this in my stand mixer. Instead of being really smooth, mine came out the consistency of pimiento cheese (see picture), which was just fine. Also, I served mine with pretzels and crostini I made from slicing a baguette with olive oil, salt and pepper and baking at 450 until crispy and golden brown.

if you can't say something nice...

2011-09-02T14:33:00.001-05:00

Have y'all seen this video?

The always darling Joanna posted it on her blog the other day, and it got me thinking about what I would say if I stumbled upon that podium somewhere. What would you say?

Wouldn't it be cool to put in your town on a random dreary day? You never know who might need words of encouragement.

Have a nice weekend!

wish list wednesday

2011-08-31T08:30:00.000-05:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* A couple of these wingback chairs for my living room.

* That Charlie was a therapy dog. He'd be so great; don't you think?

* Chocolate Cinnamon Sugar pie crust? I'll have two.

* This skirt for Harris's rehearsal dinner. Oh. My. Sequins.

* A Shazam app for movies and TV. Someone get on that, please.

What's your wish?

sweet babies

2011-08-29T08:00:00.001-05:00

And before you ask, no I'm not referring to having a baby myself.

Now that that's out of the way, it seems like everywhere I turn someone either has a new baby or one on the way. And where there are babies and babies-to-be, there are baby showers. And where there are baby showers, there's food!

It's no secret that I love a cupcake. I like to think I loved them before they became the new hip thing in the culinary world, but that's neither here nor there. Certainly you've noticed with the popularity of the cupcake on the rise, so have the little lagniappes to decorate the tops and even the sides of these pint-sized pastries. I recently helped with a baby shower for a friend having a boy, and I can assure you that more decorating items exist in pink than in blue. So in case you're ever in the same boat as I was, I made these, and I'll show you how...

After an intense google search (and by "intense" I mean any search over about 5 minutes), I found a free printable cupcake topper here and printed them off. I cut them out and then cut circles in a sheet of card stock just a little larger than the outside of the topper. Then, I put a piece of double-stick tape on the top and bottom of the elephant topper, attached a toothpick, and slapped the cardstock back on the topper, thereby making a toothpick sandwich.

I just tinted store-bought frosting with a few drops of blue food coloring and piped a hefty swirl on the top of each one. Add a few little candy pearls and my nifty toppers, and voila! Here's one up close and personal:

Now how easy is that?

While we're talking about kids and cuteness, my photog friend Beth is doing some great mini-sessions during the last few weeks of September!

Think back-to-school, families, Christmas cards, etc. You might remember the great pictures she took of Kell and me this summer. If you're interested - and you totally should be - contact her at b.mofoto@gmail.com.

And finally, a recipe to share! We had this at a baby shower this weekend, and it is sinfully sweet and just as easy...

Cookie Dough Dip

1/2 c. butter

1/3 c. light brown sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 - 8 oz. block cream cheese

1/2 c. powdered sugar

1 c. mini semi-sweet chocolate chips (recipe only calls for 3/4 c., but 1 c. is better...)

Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add brown sugar and whisk until sugar dissolves and mixture starts to bubble. Set aside to cool, and whisk in vanilla.

Cream together cream cheese and powdered sugar for 60 seconds. With mixer on low speed, add in brown sugar and butter mixture. Mix until combined. Add chocolate chips and stir again.

We had this with graham cracker sticks, but you can also serve with fruit, animal crackers, pretzels or your fingers.

I hope you had a great weekend! Don't forget to come back on Wednesday for my next Wish List!

yard sale finds

2011-08-26T08:00:00.001-05:00

Hello, friends!

I know it’s been a while since the yard sale, but I thought I’d share with you the items I bought anyway.

I don’t know if it was because my hopes were sky high about the cool stuff I was planning to find, or it really was junk, but seriously, if I saw one hideous old throw pillow, I saw 1,000. I mean, do you honestly expect me to buy a used ceiling fan out of your YARD? No.

Anywho, there were still a few diamonds in all that rough, and those of you that are aware of my love for Japanese culture should not be surprised in the least with my haul. Well, if “haul” means three items. (Forgive the poor quality of these pictures. I took them with my phone at dusk.)

The dude that sold me this Japanese stamp print actually lived there for a few years while he was in the army! Five bucks! It needs to be re-framed, but I love the colors.

Aren’t these pretty? I had my first experience with haggling, and it gave me such high anxiety, I didn’t do it again. The lady was asking $12 for each print, and I offered her $20 and she took it. Whew.

I love the yellow flower in this one! They're actually painted on silk, and the pattern around the art is a lovely fabric.

And the bronze bamboo-y frames are so pretty and in great shape. PS – the price tag on the back said $115 each! I can certainly live with 90% off! I can’t decide what to do with them, but I feel like I’ll know the right place when the time comes.

What do y’all think of my new art? Do you have any art you're particularly proud of? Or an incredible deal you scored?

Have a fun weekend, dears. Stay cool!

wish list wednesday

2011-08-24T08:00:00.002-05:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* To go back to the beach. The real world blows!

* That my hair was not too thick to braid.

* Some of the Lulu Frost for J.Crew jewelry. I particularly like the bangles and this necklace!

* Cool enough weather outside to wrap up in this blankie.

* A new bag for fall. Don't you love all the ways this one can be carried?

What's your wish?

wish list wednesday

2011-08-17T08:00:00.000-05:00

Instead of the traditional wish list today, I have something I wish you'd watch. Even if our small acts of love don't make MSNBC, they are still impactful...

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Do not neglect to show kindness to strangers; for, in this way, some, without knowing it, have had angels as their guests. - Hebrews 13:2

great giveaway!

2011-08-15T15:49:00.000-05:00

Check out this awesome giveaway from Danielle Oakey Interiors. If you don't currently read her blog, you totally should. She has an incredible eye for design, and I love her colorful style. While you're at it, just add her to your Favorites. Trust me.

Against my better judgement, I decided to share this little contest with you. But like I've said before, please don't win. I need this more than you do.

Seriously. You've never seen my bedroom.

happy un-birthday to me!

2011-08-15T12:33:00.000-05:00

Today is my Name Day!

In the Greek Orthodox church, almost every day of the year is dedicated to a saint. When the saint who you share your name with has his or hear day, it's your Name Day!

What should I do to celebrate?

nailed it

2011-08-12T08:00:00.001-05:00

Have you heard of the Shellac manicures? Have you gotten one? Will you? I think it would be awesome for the beach!

The Pioneer Woman got one. Check out her review here.

Have a lovely weekend, darlings!

wish list wednesday

2011-08-10T08:00:00.001-05:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* That I'd seen more cool stuff at the yard sale. A girl can only take so many old Dustbusters.

* A settee for my kitchen. Don't y'all think this would be PERFECT? I can't quit dreaming of it!

* A fedora to wear to the beach next week. This one, maybe?

* That I were handy enough to make a day bed out of the old door I have in my storage room.

* More blog followers. Don't be shy!

What's your wish?

treasure hunt

2011-08-05T08:00:00.001-05:00

Care to take a guess what Harris and I are doing this weekend? Here are some clues:

Yep, it's Kell's personal purgatory - a yard sale! And not just any yard sale, it's the World's Longest Yard Sale that goes all the way from Michigan to Alabama (we're just doing the AL portion, of course). My aunt and cousin have gone for years, and Harris went last year and had a blast. I have been excited about it for weeks! I can't wait to tell you all the cool stuff I come back with and how little I spend on it!

I hope you have plans to be inside this weekend, and if not, stay hydrated like I will be!

wish list wednesday

2011-08-03T08:00:00.001-05:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* This funky flower arrangement. I can think of lots of places I'd like to put it.

* Double ovens in my kitchen. I don't need them all the time, but when I do, I REALLY need them.

* That I was better with children. This A Cup of Jo post is very thoughtful about how to talk to little girls.

* To make some of this homemade magic shell. I bet it's so much better for you than the store-bought stuff!

* Some of these culinary page flags. Then I wouldn't have to thumb through the entire Southern Living looking for the recipe I want!

What's your wish?

my huckleberry friend

2011-08-01T10:01:00.000-05:00

This version of one of my favorite songs in the world gives me chills. I love how pure and haunting the singer's voice is.

Want to know more about my favorite songs? Check out this post.

i made this...

2011-07-29T08:00:00.001-05:00

...and I wish I hadn't. It was that good.

wish list wednesday

2011-07-27T08:00:00.001-05:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* That I hadn't agreed to do yardwork on Saturday. Think there's any chance Kell would let me take it back?

* One of these DIY cheese kits! Amazingly delicious! (spotted on A Cup of Jo)

* Some new skinny jeans. I love the James Jeans ones I got on sale at Anthro last year!

* This elephant topiary. Not exactly sure what I'd do with it, but I think it's AWESOME.

* Some grey boots for the fall and winter. It's not too early to think about boots, is it?

What's your wish?

Zzzzzz...

2011-07-22T18:14:00.001-05:00

I have been having some issues sleeping lately. Not falling asleep, mind you, but staying asleep. I need some zzzzz's!

Any suggestions of what to try? And don't say meds - they make me crazy...

I hope your weekend is full of fun and naps!

wish list wednesday

2011-07-20T08:00:00.001-05:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* That I didn't have to get up so early this morning. 5:30 is just too much to ask.

* A batch of these Reese's stuffed crescent rolls. OMG.

* That the "y" key on my laptop wasn't stuck. Y'all should see how hard I have to press to get it to type. I never realized how much I use y.

* This cute t-shirt. It's got little spectacles and sunglasses on it!

* Some colored jeans. I like these red ones. Do you? (oh, and the legs to go with them...)

What's your wish? (jeepers, there's that y again)

strike a pose

2011-07-18T08:00:00.001-05:00

The anticipation of turning 30 was way harder than it was in actuality. Frankly, I had a pretty nice birthday – I spent it with friends in London, had a great dinner, plenty of champagne, and Kell had arranged for me to receive a couple of birthday cards from home. Fortunately I had no excuse to sit in my miniature hotel room and pout.

I still wanted to do something special and fun, so right before I left, I wrangled Kell into having some photos made by my photographer friend Beth Morgan. I think they turned out pretty good, and I’d like to share a few with you…

we like each other!

this makes me look a lot taller than I really am...

look at that tongue!

these are my favorites...

If you ever need pictures made in the Jackson area, Beth is an amazing talent. She made us feel so at ease and was willing to do whatever it took to get the perfect shot – including laying down in the grass and bugs at our friend’s farm.

Have a great week!

words are not necessary

2011-07-15T00:00:00.002-05:00

you better not win...

2011-07-14T08:00:00.002-05:00

I debated on whether or not to share this on the blog because I'm fully aware that the more people that sign up, the less chance I have of winning. But my love for Kallie's amazing photos on Hello Delta won me over - I just couldn't help myself from telling you all.

Go to the Hello Delta website and click on The Skinny. Look through her amazing portfolio, pick your favorite (I picked #108) and leave a comment for her. She's giving the winner an 11x14 of his/her chosen print! What an amazing deal! I've wanted one of these forever!

I'm not wishing any of you good luck. Sorry. I really want to win.

wish list wednesday

2011-07-13T08:00:00.002-05:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* That Widdleton (that's Will and Kate) would have taken a spin through the South while they were in the U.S. this week.

* A robe that doesn't make me sweat in the summer. I of course found one at Anthro that would do just fine.

* That I could be with Harris as she registers for wedding gifts. Hooray!

* A right-hand ring with a colored stone. I am very much into sapphires and emeralds at the moment, and I am still happily accepting belated birthday gifts.

* One of these Cherry Lime Mojitos to be waiting on me when I get home from work today!

What's your wish?

summer side

2011-07-11T12:49:00.000-05:00

Pasta salad might be my favorite cold side dish ever, which is a shame considering how the carbs involved like to mingle around my midsection and overstay their welcome.

I was asked to bring a side dish (not a green salad) to a friend's house for dinner this weekend, and I literally could think of no other options besides pasta salad. One-track mind, I tell you. And of course you know me, I couldn't just look through my recipes that I already have - oh, no - I had to go out and find a new one.

So in celebration of my love of pasta salads, here are a few of my favorites:

B-A-T Pasta Salad (Bacon, Avocado and Tomato) - I made it this weekend and didn't even freak out over the mayo!

Sun-dried Tomato Pasta Salad - Looks amazing. Ree can do no wrong in my book.

Greek Pasta Salad - mushrooms, tomatoes, feta cheese...what's not to love?

Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad - I think Kell would be all over this one.

Caprese Pasta Salad - I can think of few things better than the combination of caprese and pasta.

Do you have a favorite pasta salad recipe? Please share. I've never met one I didn't like...

like the first time

2011-07-07T15:51:00.006-05:00

On work trips when you've been with the same people for five straight days, conversations tend to drift to the completely silly and delirious to the super deep and thought-provoking. One of my friends told a story about her son hearing "Free Bird" for the first time on the radio and how sincere and passionate and endearing his reaction was to it. I got to thinking...what song would I like to hear again for the very first time?

And I of course want to hear from you. It's not necessarily your favorite song ever, but one that struck you to your core after every new note. Maybe you can remember the first time you ever heard it; maybe you can't. But I KNOW you know what I'm talking about.

Here are mine (the list keeps growing):

The Beatles - "Eleanor Rigby"

Adele - "Hometown Glory"

The Rolling Stones - "Sympathy for the Devil"

Reba McEntire (I know, I know) - "The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia"

Ray LaMontagne - "Empty"

Simon & Garfunkel - "The Boxer"

Eric Clapton - "Layla (Unplugged)"

What about you? If you could hear a song again for the very first time, what would it be? Maybe you can be a part of this experience for someone else! See how great sharing is?

wish list wednesday

2011-07-06T10:23:00.000-05:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* That more recipes called for Nilla Wafers. I forget how delicious they are!

* That I weren't too embarrassed to dress up in costume for the Harry Potter premier next Friday.

* A gallery wall for my living room. Do you like this one?

* That I could eat Otter Pops all day at my desk at work. Louie Blue Raspberry all the way.

* A break from this heat. Yikes!

What's your wish?

land of the free

2011-07-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Independence Day!

I much prefer calling today "Independence Day" to "4th of July;" I think it's much more specific as to why we celebrate this date every year. Down with British rule! Hooray for the United States of America! Wave those stars and stripes!

And what better way to celebrate freedom by making an eagle out of a cookie? Confused? Here's how to do it.

“We are driven by five genetic needs: survival, love and belonging, power, freedom, and fun.”

- William Glasser

celebrate with cake

2011-07-01T09:10:00.000-05:00

photo from Glorious Treats

As if I needed a reason to have more cake mix and frosting in my house...

How 'bout you make this 4th of July flag cake on Monday for Independence Day?

wish list wednesday

2011-06-29T08:00:00.001-05:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* To avoid sunburn. Fingers crossed!

* One of these a-dorable house stamps. If you think I wouldn't stamp everything that stood still with it, you are dead wrong.

* To be able to dedicate an entire day on pinterest. Do you pin?

* These clever little iPhone app magnets.

* This cute, summery skirt. JCrew makes them best!

What's your wish?

jessi talks TED

2011-06-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

Hiya, friends!

I'm actually at the beach right now, but I couldn't resist sharing Jessi's TED talk. You might remember I posted about her Weeks Worth of Undies challenge, and now you can hear it for yourself!

After listening to her, maybe I should get that below-the-knee skirt I've been wishing for...

trash to treasure

2011-06-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

I've always thought that reupholstering furniture would be a fabulous skill to possess. I would like to think that I could identify cool pieces and be able to make them new-to-me, but I'm sure I would always end up with a jumbled mess that would be perfect for my local trash heap.

The uber-talented, always creative Jenny from Little Green Notebook has a great tutorial here and here for reupholstering a chair. Are you brave enough to try it? If so, let me know how it goes. I'll still probably pay someone to do it.

I'm going to the beach next week, and I am most excited! I hope to come back "brown as a nut" as my dad would say.

Have a great weekend, lovelies!

wish list wednesday

2011-06-22T08:00:00.001-05:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* To be tall enough for a below-the-knee skirt. I am loving this one...

* That I hadn't left you guys hanging last Wednesday. Can you find it in your hearts to forgive me?

* This awesome necklace. You can customize your colors, too!

* Relief from this stifling heat. I was digging the cold, rainy London air.

* Sunshine next week for my beach trip. Finally, traveling for pleasure!

What's your wish?

have you heard?

2011-06-10T08:00:00.002-05:00

(image from TOMS website)

TOMS is now making eyewear! Now for every pair of TOMS eyewear you purchase, someone in need of vision correction will get the assistance they are unable to obtain or pay for. Here's to a company that really cares!

I'm totally on board with TOMS shades. Will you buy some?

wish list wednesday

2011-06-08T08:00:00.002-05:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* That I felt like working.

* This a-dor-a-ble honeycomb necklace. Love it. (I love a bee. They're fascinating!)

* A pedicure. I can never do a good job on my toes...

* Some wide-leg jeans. Do you like these Madewell ones?

* Safe travels across the pond on Saturday. Yes, I'm off on another European jaunt!

What's your wish?

if I can get my life together...

2011-06-03T10:53:00.000-05:00

...I promise to post about my trips!

I hope you have wonderful plans this weekend that either involve air conditioning or a pool. I plan to make this Brown Butter Banana Strawberry Bread, considering I have some ~~ancient~~ extra ripe bananas lying around.

Have a cool weekend!

xoxo

wish list wednesday

2011-06-01T10:58:00.000-05:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* This funny book about NYC (even though I totally dig it).

* A Diane Von Furstenburg wrap dress. I've wanted one for years, and now I REALLY want one after seeing her on CBS Sunday Morning.

* That my iPhone was also a TV remote control.

* This chalkboard state map. But of Mississippi, of course!

* Every Monday off!

What's your wish?

on the agenda

2011-05-27T13:44:00.000-05:00

Things I don't want to do today...

Mop the kitchen floor (which also involves sweeping the kitchen floor, another task I don't fancy).

Unpack my suitcase.

Run errands.

Do the dishes in the sink. (Kell will hate that I posted this picture...)

What I'd much rather do...

Play with my puppies. (I missed them so!)

Get some sun.

Blog about my trips. (probably should have cropped that one first...)

Turn the AC down and nap.

My feet are on the ground for a couple of weeks. Finally! Miss me?

What are your plans this holiday weekend?

apologies

2011-05-25T19:39:00.001-05:00

I can't get the Internet in my hotel room to work, but I promise WLW will be back next week!

In the meantime, have a loverly weekend! Xoxo

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

five

2011-05-20T09:04:00.000-05:00

Kell and I have been married for FIVE years today! Hooray!

Can you believe it? I can't.

wish list wednesday

2011-05-18T08:41:00.000-05:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* That I could get out from under this jetlag. Zzzz...

* This super cute romper from...Fossil? Who knew?

* These awesome little trunks made from reclaimed wood. Wouldn't they make awesome end tables?

* This dress, even though I'm 110% sure it would look ridiculous on me (and i LOVE the name!).

* That I had time to blog more. I miss it. Do you miss me?

What's your wish?

wish list wednesday - european addition

2011-05-11T08:00:00.001-05:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* More time in Paris. 2 days is just not enough!

* That I could bring back a real German beer for Kell.

* A real Diet Coke. With ice!

* That I hadn't left all my lip glosses on the plane in that stupid ziploc bag. Boo hooooo...

* More money to spend! Feel free to wire me some, friends...

What's your wish?

hipster dad...

2011-05-06T08:00:00.004-05:00

Happy weekend, friends! TGIF!

I'm trying to get my life together before I leave for Paris (eek!) and Germany tomorrow, but I had to share this site with you. Have you seen Dads Are the Original Hipsters? As a girl who is prone to secret crushes on a hipster, I found it to be hilarious and impossibly darling. Especially since my dad totally WAS an original hipster. What? Don't believe me? How's this for proof...

Rad Shades? Check.

Tiny shorts? You bet.

Rockabilly frames? Duh.

Was your dad a hipster, too?

wish list wednesday

2011-05-04T12:21:00.000-05:00

What am I wishing for this Wednesday?

* The perfect white shirt. I think I’ll know it when I see it.

* These cute chalkboard napkin rings. Or maybe I could make them…

* Safe travels to and around Europe next week!

* To be a judge on The Voice. I think I have good instincts...

* A super cute clutch for spring. Do you like this one?

What's your wish?