Savor Home

A Touch of Black

2012-03-08T05:30:00.010-06:00

My friend Marianne posted a gorgeous picture yesterday of a living room designed by Beth Webb that blew me away. I have seen pictures of her work on blogs and on Pinterest, but I never visited her website until yesterday. Something she said on the "Meet Beth" page of her site struck me. She said, "A room should never be without something black."

I couldn't agree with her more. The pops of black work exceptionally well in these neutral spaces (all designed by Beth). Neutral spaces are my favorite, but everything tends to run together if everything is the same color. The eye doesn't have anywhere to land. The pops of black in these spaces provide a place for the eye to stop and stare. Perfection.

I'm looking around my neutral bedroom as I write this post and the only pop of black I see right now is the back of the TV remote. Pitiful. I must work on that...

The Perfect Book

2012-03-07T05:30:00.007-06:00

Are you reading anything good these days? I recently finished a book that made me laugh so hard that I would be crazy not to share it with you. And by laugh, I don't mean, "Ha, ha that's funny" kind of laugh. I mean the kind of laugh that requires you to have a box of tissues nearby. It's called Black Heels To Tractor Wheels by Ree Drummond. It's about how she unexpectedly met her strikingly handsome husband who she calls "The Marlboro Man." She's a city girl, he's a cowboy, a real one. They are complete opposites who fall in love and experience an old school courtship- like eating dinners and watching movies at home and having conversations on the porch under the stars kind of courtship. Call me crazy, but I would take that over a dinner and $12 per ticket movie out any day. Ree is hilarious and utterly honest throughout the book and I just loved it. I will probably read it again one day because I heart a good love story...

I'm looking for another book, so any recommendations you have would be great!

P.S. I now have the sudden urge to restyle my nightstand...

Images 1/2/3

How To Make The Perfect Brown Rice

2012-03-06T05:30:00.045-06:00

I hope today's post doesn't bore you to death, but I really wanted to share something with you that I wish someone would have shared with me 200 times ago. I want to share how to properly make brown rice. Brown rice is so good for you but it is hard to make right? It's known for being undercooked and tasteless. No good. I don't know about you, but I need flavor in my life! I have made it many times and have finally figured out how to consistently make it good, moist, fluffy and flavorful. I make it once every other week or so and not according to the directions on the bag!

Here is what works every time for me:

1 cup of brown rice

1 1/2 teaspoons of extra virgin olive oil

1 14.5 oz can of low sodium chicken broth

1/3 cup of water

1/8 of a teaspoon of cumin

First, toast the rice. Toasting = flavor. Add the olive oil and the rice to a medium pot. Turn the stove on to medium-low heat. Stir the rice and make sure that each grain of rice is coated with the oil. Keep stirring for about 3 minutes or so until you smell a nutty smell. The nutty smell means the rice is toasted.

Add the chicken broth, water and cumin. Put the lid on the pot and bring it up to a boil. As soon as it comes up to a boil, reduce the heat to low and simmer with the lid on for about 40 minutes. No peeking!! After 40 minutes, take the lid off and fluff the rice with a fork. If the liquid is not entirely dissolved, put the lid back on and cook it for another 3-5 minutes.

The rice is very versatile even with the cumin. Add cilantro for a tasty Mexican rice. I also make a Greek brown rice salad by adding feta cheese, cucumbers, olives and red onions. It is really good with this vinaigrette.

What is your experience with brown rice? Does it lack "flava" or taste good?

Linked up to Tasty Tuesdays

Images by me

Weekend in Six Pics

2012-03-05T05:30:00.013-06:00

Happy Monday! How was your weekend? I managed to have a decent weekend in between two migraines, so it is all good! I caught up on work and life at home as I was working in Savannah, GA most of the week last week. I took a picture of the clouds on the plane ride there. The simplest things are sometimes the most beautiful things. I did some sight seeing on my way to a dinner while I was there and saw that theatre sign. I find the words "menopause" and "musical" together amusing...

I stuffed my face with some fabulous food at this restaurant and this restaurant while I was in Savannah. It was worth every bite. I got back on track by eating a few salads and fruit over the weekend. Savannah has the BEST food. I'm still thinking about it...

I also spent some time organizing my closet. Organizing clears my head and colorful tulips for my nightstand make me happy. So excited for spring...

Other highlights from the weekend: I learned how to draw a dotted line in Photoshop Elements. HUGE deal for me people! It's not as easy to do as it sounds. I also read this post by the lovely Marian of Miss Mustard Seed. It beautifully addresses the insecurities that sometimes come along with this thing called blogging. Loved it...

Friday's Fancies: Target!!!

2012-03-02T05:30:00.008-06:00

So, true story. I talk to my mom everyday and everyday she tells me she loved my blog post that day. She makes me smile. BUT when I post Friday's Fancies, she always says, " I liked your post today, but WHY is everything so expensive?? I'm not going to spend that kind of money on that stuff! Why can't you post things that people can really afford? Why can't you post things from Target? They have cute stuff!"

Point taken. And I do love Target's clothes. So in honor of her, I spent a little time on Target's site and loved some of the things I saw.

And nothing here is over $50... :) Does that work for you mom? :)

Tote / Hat / Heels / Dress / Trench / Necklace / Crossbody Bag

Has anyone picked up that cute Jason Wu dress? Or anything by Jason Wu for that matter? If so, how is it?

I adore trench coats. They are so classic and I can never seem to have enough of them. But I do need to add some color to my collection for spring and that coat comes in some great colors.

Stripes + a floppy hat = happy. I love that combination. And aren't those heels H-O-T? I love the $30 price tag. They come in black, too... St. Patti's Day is coming up, so that necklace would be simple and perfect. I'm kind of thinking that crossbody bag would be a cute camera bag. It might not be the safest, but it would be a cute to use until you could get a real one! And you must see the inside of the white tote. Really cute...

Have you seen or bought anything lately that you are loving from Target? Let me know!

Have a great weekend!

Rustic & Refined

2012-02-29T05:30:00.012-06:00

White kitchens are my fave, but rustic ones come in a close second. I am dying over that hood above that gorgeous range. I would love to cook a big meal there for my family.
The brick ceiling is fantastic, too...

My parents have a copper sink similar to that lovely farmhouse sink in their kitchen, so that photo reminds me of home. And I'm missing home right now. Busy weeks tend to make me feel that way...

And the dining area. It's rustic, refined, warm and elegant all at the same time and I like it- well minus the head on the floor. I don't think my dinner guests would like that...

How is your week going?

Images 1/2/3

I Heart Toast

2012-02-28T05:30:00.006-06:00

If last weekend were 3 days instead of 2, I would have had time to cook up something lovely to post today. But as some of you may know, that little black dress thing took up half of my weekend, so I don't have any personal food photos today. I honestly feel a bit like a kid who came to class without their homework...

I do have this fun graphic that I found via Wit + Delight. I love that blog. The graphic highlights a food that I eat daily - toast. Sometimes I like it with plain ol' butter, strawberry jam, peanut butter & bananas or melted American or pepperjack cheese. Sometimes I like it a little more dressed up like the photos above. I really like #1...

How do you like your toast??

Weekend In Six

2012-02-27T05:30:00.022-06:00

Hi there!! How was your weekend?? My weekend was not as relaxing as last weekend. Work is crazy and I spent almost an entire day shopping for something. Here's the story along with some random things and thoughts...

1. I think I am still recovering from a whole day of shopping for the perfect black dress. I have an event to go to this week and needed something simple and classic. WHY is it that when I need a simple black dress, I can't find THE ONE?? Does that happen to you? I spent hours looking. I ended up buying four dresses and returned two. I'm very indecisive sometimes.

I found the PERFECT wrap dress and clutch for the event at Banana Republic. That pic is not the actual dress I bought, but very similar. My dress is a little more sleek looking- it is a little longer and has long sleeves. It literally fits like a glove. I'll be pairing it with that BR clutch, a fab pair of black heels that I already have (thank God) and that simple necklace that I found at Target. I bought it a while back and wear it all the time! Oh and I got 30% off the BR dress and clutch... Score.

Then I found the CUTEST shift dress at H&M. It was $17.95 people! And it is fabulously made. It will be perfect with flats, heels, dressed up or dressed down. I'll definitely be wearing it to BlogFest...

2. Speaking of BlogFest, who's going?? Let me know!! I want to meet you!

3. I treated myself to a CamiCakes lemon cupcake after I found the perfect dress for the event. It was heaven in a cupcake wrapper. I so needed it...

4. I am still learning Photoshop Elements. I did that graphic above using Photoshop and I needed another cupcake after I finished it... Learning it (for me) is like learning a foreign language. Does anyone else feel the same way?

via

5. So about the Oscars. I did exactly as I said I would do. I made this meal and was on the couch in time for the red carpet. My three faves were Gwyneth, Maria and Michelle. Gwyneth is just stunning. I'm not 100% sold on the cape, but the overall look is very modern, clean and sleek, which I love. I love the color and flow of Maria's dress. And Michelle finally got it right- in my opinion.

Did you have a fave last night??

6. It's Monday and I ~~want~~ need another cupcake...

xo,

Glamorous...

2012-02-24T05:30:00.016-06:00

The Oscars are this weekend and I couldn't be more excited! I like to cook a good Sunday dinner and be on the couch front and center to catch the start of the red carpet on E!. I can't wait to see all the glitz and the glamour and who got it right and who definitely didn't. Then I look forward to hearing all of the opinions on Fashion Police. I heart Fashion Police...

Anyway, do you watch the Oscars? If you were to attend the Oscars, would your style be minty, flowy or gold?

All of these are crazy gorgeous in my book. I could definitely wear all of them. I would only feel comfortable in them after about 1,000 more Pilates classes, but that is a whole other story. I say that as I am munching on a bowl of chocolate chips...

I hope you have a fabulous weekend friends.

Images (left to right) 1.2.3.4.5.6

Top 10: Veranda Interiors

2012-02-23T05:30:00.001-06:00

If I need to make a crazy day a little more calm or a bad day better, all I have to do is browse white decor. It's fresh, it's clean and it just makes me happy...

So when Mel of Veranda Interiors asked me to do a guest post for her, white decor was the first thing that came to mind. I'm over at her beautiful blog today sharing my top 10 white rooms. Click here to check it out!

P.S. I LOVE LOVE LOVE that kitchen with two sinks! Do you?

Images 1/2/3/4

One Clutch, Two Looks

2012-02-22T05:30:00.004-06:00

How amazingly cute are these reversible clutches?? I mentioned here that I am loving florals for spring, so I'm loving the pink clutch. But I think the gold one is my fave... Do you have a fave?

Blueberry Muffins

2012-02-21T05:30:00.097-06:00

"Picture it..." (as Sophia hilariously says on The Golden Girls). It was raining last Sunday morning. I woke up and was dying to just stay in bed all day. Rainy days make me feel extra lazy. But I looked over at my to-do list on the nightstand and knew that being lazy was not going to be an option. So I thought that I could at least start the day off on a relaxing note by having breakfast in bed. So I grabbed my extra chunky white robe and headed to the kitchen. I opened Gwyneth Paltrow's cookbook and this was the first recipe that I flipped to...

Gwyneth's mother's blueberry muffins. Comforting and warm... I already had all of the ingredients. Perfect.

They were exactly what I needed. Here is what you need and what to do in case you need them, too...

1 stick of unsalted butter, melted and cooled

2 organic large eggs

1/2 cup of whole milk

2 cups of unbleached all-purpose flour

3/4 cup + 1 tablespoon of sugar

2 teaspoons of baking powder

1/2 teaspoon of fine salt

2 1/2 cups of fresh blueberries

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Line 12 muffin tins with liners. In a medium bowl, whisk up the butter, eggs and milk. In another bowl, whisk the flour, 3/4 cup of sugar, baking powder and salt. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Then, carefully fold in the blueberries. Fill each of tins muffin tins about 3/4 of the way full. Sprinkle the tops with the 1 tablespoon of sugar. Bake for about 25-30 minutes. The tops should be golden brown and a toothpick should come out clean.

** These aren't that sweet, so if you need a little more sweetness in your life, add another 1/4 cup of sugar. I think I will add the zest of 1/2 a lemon the next time, too. Lemon zest and blueberries are great friends. **

I put two of these on a tray with strawberries and some orange Tazo tea. I climbed in the middle of my bed and enjoyed breakfast in bed. It was the perfect start to my day.

Linked up with Tasty Tuesdays

Images by me

Weekend In Six Pics

2012-02-20T05:30:00.019-06:00

Hi! Did you have a good weekend? I hope so! Here are a few highlights from my weekend + some current obsessions + some random thoughts...

I had tea and a lovely 3-hour lunch with a great friend on Saturday at Cafe Intermezzo. If you live in Atlanta and have not been yet, please put it on your list of places to go. The food is fabulous and their mouth-watering desserts will make you gain ten pounds just by looking at them.

I am obsessed with Alexia sweet potato fries. They are in the frozen section of the grocery store. I bake them off, sprinkle them with sea salt, put them in a bowl and eat them like I'm eating a bowl of popcorn. So delicious. I made kale chips for the first time over the weekend using this recipe. I almost ate my fingers off...

I have bought white tulips three weeks in a row now. They keep me happy.

On Sunday morning, I whipped up some homemade blueberry muffins, tea, and fruit. I put it all on a nice tray and had breakfast in bed. Blissful... I will be sharing the recipe for the muffins tomorrow...

I ate a lot this weekend (some healthy, some not) and watched The Holiday-- again.

Some new blogs I'm loving: Stephanie LeAnn, Free To Be Lea and The Long And Short Of It

The season premiere of Bethenny Ever After is TONIGHT! I will be glued in front of the TV. Do you watch it?

Photos via Instagram (@savorhome)

Friday's Fancies: Beach Essentials

2012-02-17T06:15:00.002-06:00

Happy Friday!! Well last week, it was Napa. This week it's the beach! Can you tell I'm really wanting a vaca? The beach is really one of my favorite places on the planet. There is something about them that is so incredibly calming and peaceful. It's the only place where I can completely clear my mind. And it's Friday and my mind needs clearing badly...

But all I can do for now is just imagine that I am on a white sandy beach where the water is as blue as the sky. I'm staying in gorgeous house right on the beach that comes complete with a chef. No schedules, no stress, all laughs. If I could start packing now, here are some things I would take...

Dress / Fedora / Bangles / Shorts / Sunglasses / Tote / Towel / Swimsuit / Sandals

I love everything here, but I must say that I really LOVE that Michael Kors swimsuit!! Maybe I need to work a little harder in Pilates class this weekend... Of course I would take an elegant, yet beachy dress for a nice dinner, a huge stack of mags, great sunnies, and some sunscreen. Good times...

Do you love the beach as much as I do?? Do tell...

I hope you have a great weekend!

On Order {K. Slademade}

2012-02-16T05:30:00.006-06:00

Sarah pinned this K. Slademade beauty a few days ago and I loved it! But I just repinned it and moved on. Well a stressful day yesterday called for some retail therapy. So the tote is now on order and I'm anxiously awaiting its arrival. I'm now just a little thankful for the stressful moment. Just a little...

A Chocolate Soufflé Story

2012-02-15T05:30:00.018-06:00

Just because Love Day has come and gone doesn't mean that I won't eat chocolate for another year. I wouldn't do that to myself. That would be absolutely insane... I eat chocolate everyday, whether its a little Dove dark chocolate candy or a handful of chocolate chips. Sometimes I treat myself to something more special, which is what I did last weekend...

One of my favorite desserts is chocolate soufflé. I love everything about them from their texture to the process of making them. I find the process sort of therapeutic...

I started the process by chopping up this precious bar of organic semi-sweet chocolate. I melted it down and slowly incorporated it into a mound of fluffy, sweetened egg whites and whipped pale yellow egg yolks...

And this is what I got... I got a spongy, chocolatey, light, delicious work of food art. I photographed these as soon as they came out of the oven as they tend to deflate over time. When their photo session was over, I took one soufflé ( I made two), sat at my kitchen table and had dessert. I think it was around two in the afternoon and I had eaten lunch two hours prior. That's ok right?

After I finished the first soufflé, I poured a jar of creamy milk. Then, I reached over to the second soufflé... and devoured it. Yes, I felt guilty. I ate a salad for dinner that night, which made me feel a little better...

I used this amazing and simple recipe. It calls for bittersweet chocolate, but semi-sweet is delectable as well...

Images by me

Mom's Meaning of Love Day

2012-02-14T05:30:00.035-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day!!

I have a special guest for you today. Meet my mom, Bunnie. She is pretty much the love of my life, so I thought it was fitting for her to make an apperance today. She is exceptionally talented at writing poetry, so I asked her to whip up a poem that reflected her thoughts on Love Day. And by whip I mean about 5 minutes. That's how long it took her to write this. I just love her...

~~~~~~~~~~~

Valentine’s Day is a day for nothing else

But to be mindful to just love yourself

It is not just a day for a man and wife

A happy frame of mine should be everyday life

Even though I have been married over 35 years

I have never expected all the flowers and frills

I stop and think of others wild about the day

Saying to myself every day should be this way

I think of my children; Love brought them here

Through the grace of God and they are so dear

They give me love more than cupid can deliver

Can’t you just see my lips are starting to quiver?

On this day I try to think of others

That live alone with no family or a lover

I try to brighten up their Valentine's Day

By just giving them a hug and a PayDay

I wish for all a safe and blessed day

Remember that kind words can go a long way

Share this day with your family and friends

Leave the candy alone; Hips is where it will end!

Love, Bunnie

~~~~~~~~~~~

See why I love her so much?
I couldn't agree with her more.
She is the most unselfish person I know and I thank God everyday for her!

Give a friend or a loved one a hug or simply a call today if you can.

I plan to do just that.

xo,

Weekend In One {An Office Install}

2012-02-13T05:30:00.049-06:00

Hi there! How was your weekend? I hope it was a good one. I had quite a busy weekend. Half of it was spent preparing for this week, so I won't bore you with those details. The other half was spent doing an unplanned office install for a very dear friend that I work with. That is what I would like to share with you today...

I spent Saturday with a friend who was looking to decorate her office at work. She asked me to help her out. She collects antiques and has a gorgeous 1960's cottage-style home full of great stuff, so I thought the best place to shop would be her own home. Once we got to her house, she showed me her home office and well, she needed a little help... So I rolled up my sleeves and got to work!

Blogging wasn't on my mind, so I didn't have my good camera or take any before pics. But I will explain the "before" as I go through the pics.

Note that we did not buy one single thing! Everything you see are things that she already had! Most importantly, the majority of the items have a very special meaning to her.

This was probably my favorite part of the space. There was a built in desk in the nook with an old computer on it. We knocked out the desk and got rid of the computer. I put a side table in the space added a vintage lamp that she bought at a garage sale years ago. The chair was from another bedroom and the pictures on the wall are vintage photos and frames.

The space has some really beautiful built-ins. Before I styled them, they were full of papers, old CD's, stacks of books and even a few cassette tapes! I took everything down and started from scratch. I added a few lamps, a few of her favorite books and family photos and a small basket of office supplies. After I took this photo, I did a bit more styling and hid the lamp cord. :)

The desk was what really made me want to redecorate her office. The built-in desk was hidden under 500 stacks of papers and needed immediate attention! The chair was an old "Office Max" type chair that had to go.

We cleaned off the desk and dumped the old chair. I added a lamp and put one of her favorite paintings on the wall. The chair was from her living room and the blanket on the chair is an heirloom. Oh and she is accountant (like me), so that is why there is an extra monitor there. Two monitors make our work much easier. I styled the bookcases off to the side by adding baskets of office supplies, one her favorite paintings and some family photos.

The space initially didn't have a rug, so we brought in a rug from another room that pulled all of the different colors in the space together. The view from the office is of a beautiful golf course, which I find to be lovely.

My friend loved it and my heart was so full knowing that she was so happy. After we finished, we sat in her living room and had a light dinner of wine, goat cheese and crackers and stuffed olives. It was the perfect ending to the perfect day.

How was your weekend?? Do tell...

The winner of the Lo & Sons bags is Shannon of Shannon Hearts! Congrats! I will send you an e-mail shortly!

xo,

Friday's Fancies: Dream Love Day

2012-02-10T05:30:00.040-06:00

It's Friday!! I'm so happy I could scream!

Today's Friday's Fancies is all about the upcoming Love Day... What are your plans? I will probably be working. I'm incredibly thankful for my job, but there are other things I dream of doing that are a little more exciting. For example...

Sandals / Jacket / Polish / Tee / Skirt / Necklace / Bracelet / Belt

I would love to take the whole week off next week.

And jet off to Napa Valley with a hot date. I've always wanted to go to Napa- with a hot date.

On Valentine's Day, I would love to have a great brunch at a restaurant overlooking a beautiful vineyard, followed by an afternoon of wine tasting. I love wine, especially with a hot date.

I would wear that outfit. I think it's fashionable, casual, comfy and perfect for the occasion.

And aren't those Kate Spade sandals cute?! You know how much I love wedges...

I love the pop of color from the J.Crew bracelet. We'll pretend my hot date gave it to me for V-day.

Such a nice guy...
We would spend the rest of the trip eating, sight-seeing and laughing.

I would come home refreshed and relaxed with a renewed spirit.

****************

Sounds dreamy right? Sigh... Back to reality, a reality I must say I am very grateful for...

I hope you have a great weekend! And don't forget to check out my latest giveaway!! The winner will be announced on Monday!

Just Some Thoughts...

2012-02-09T06:13:00.001-06:00

***********************

I did this post at 6:30 this morning. I woke up and desperately needed some motivation and inspiration to get my day started. Do you ever feel like that? So I turned to my Lovely Quotes Pinterest board and found some things that made me think and smile. The 8-year old made me laugh... Kinda fun to laugh early in the morning right?

I hope these made you think, smile and laugh, too... Happy Thursday.

Dining In

2012-02-08T05:30:00.007-06:00

I adore the concept of having the kitchen table or large dining island in the center of the kitchen. The concept just reminds me of family, and I love family.

This is actually my second "Dining In" post. My original post, featured traditional kitchens. Well, time evolves taste and I'm currently loving kitchens that have more of a modern flare. I love shiny tile backsplashes, fun lighting, glass cabinetry and splashes of color. All of that combined with a beautiful dining space as a centerpiece is quite lovely to me...

Images 1/2/3

Lemon Ricotta Cookies

2012-02-07T05:30:00.079-06:00

I realize that Valentine's Day is next week and that most recipes you might see this week will be red, white, pink, chocolate or a combination of the four. I didn't have Valentine's Day in mind when I made these sweet, delectable lemony cake-like cookies that will blow your mind away. So they aren't the typical V-day colors, but like I said, they will blow your mind away. So it's ok right?

Anyway, I had this incredible craving for lemons the weekend I made these...

I needed some freshness in my life, so I turned to Giada (of course) and found her recipe for Lemon Ricotta Cookies...

"Amen." That was the first word that came to mind when I bit into the cookie for the first time.

I ate three of these in about three minutes. The lemon isn't too overwhelming and the ricotta creates the cake-like consistency that I really love. I think cookies would be perfect for a wedding or baby shower. Or if you are like me, they are perfect when you just need some freshness in your life...

Oh, I sent a pic of the cookies to Giada via Twitter and here is what she said... :)

Linked up with Tasty Tuesdays!

P.S I've got a good giveaway going on! Click here to see it!

A Giveaway!! {Lo & Sons}

2012-02-06T05:30:00.076-06:00

Hi!! How was your weekend? My weekend was great. I took a quick trip to Florida for work and spent some extra time I had a the beach. There is no other place on earth that is as beautiful as a beach with white sand and blue water. Ahhhh....

ANYWAY, let's get down to business... In lieu of Weekends In, I've got a giveaway! Much more exciting right?? A few weeks ago I won a Lo & Sons giveaway hosted by the lovely Camille. Lo & Sons is a great company that specializes in stylish, lightweight travel and laptop bags. I love a bag that is stylish, functional, durable and light on the shoulders and the bag up for grabs is all four of those!!

The lovely people at Lo & Sons are giving a lucky winner The Brookline laptop bag...

AND... The Mott, which is a small crossbody bag that fits perfectly inside of The Brookline and is also great to carry while traveling...

I have both of these bags in black and LOVE them. I carry The Brookline daily and happily accept all of the compliments I get. :)

This video will pretty much tell you how fabulous these bags are in all of 43 seconds...

Cute right?? The color inside of the bag is a nice surprise. The winner can choose any color of the Brookline or Mott that is currently in stock.

To win (must be a Savor Home follower or subscriber), simply:

1. Follow Lo & Sons on Twitter or Facebook

2. Follow Savor Home on Twitter or Facebook

3. Visit Lo & Sons and tell me which color you like

Leave a comment for each!

The winner will be announced on Monday, February 13th! Good luck!

Friday's Fancies: Floral Fever

2012-02-03T05:30:00.021-06:00

Happy Friday!! What's the weather like in your neighborhood?? It was almost 70 degrees here yesterday, which I find quite strange. But it feels oh so good! I do love winter (crazy I know), but with all of the new spring lines coming out + the warm weather- well, I'm kind of excited!

Earrings /Bracelet /Bag /Top / Wedges /Sunglasses /Pants

I am loving so much about the new spring lines, but I must say that floral prints have really caught my eye. I love the fresh look that they give to an outfit. Doesn't that outfit look "fresh??" I LOVE everything about that silk top from the color to the attached floral belt that wraps and ties in the back. Anything that accentuates the waist is a plus for me.

Florals make a big statement, so I paired the top with some neutral pieces. Those wedges will pretty much go with anything. Do you think wedges will ever go out of style?? I hope not. Me and my feet love them. A lot.

The accessories are simple- and expensive. Hermes bracelet. Cartier diamond earrings. Rachel Zoe-like Tom Ford sunnies. Yes I am dreaming... really big.

But the wedges are on sale for $30 at DSW!! Ha.

What are your favorite items for spring?? Fill me in!

Oh and P.S.... I have an INCREDIBLE giveaway coming up on Monday, so be sure to stop by!

Let's Share...

2012-02-02T05:30:00.014-06:00

Blue & green
Tinted blue lucite chairs
Wallpapered ceilings
A delicate chandy
A comfy chair covered in fabulous fabric...
I'd gladly share this space. Would you?

Designed by Annsley Interiors

An Island Bedroom: The Vault Files

2012-02-01T05:30:00.002-06:00

You are in for a treat today my friends! I asked my friend Gaby from The Vault Files to share her story and her bedroom with you today. Gaby has an amazing sense of fashion and style and your eyes are about to prove it to you!

*****************

Hi everyone! Gaby from The Vault Files here sharing some snaps of my bedroom with all of you. First let me tell you that I felt immensely honored when Tiffany asked me to share a room from my ordinary abode here in Kone, New Caledonia. New what you ask? New Cal is a French island close to New Zealand and a year ago we moved from Toronto to this very remote place in the pacific for a temporary job assignment (husband's).

Bringing our furniture with us was not a option, so, not even knowing where we were going to live we had to buy everything, yes, from forks and plates to beds and tables! And giving that this island is very remote, the options were little but oh so expensive! So, giving that this was a "temporary" accommodation we kept it on the minimalistic side. Bed and dresser were bought here, bedside table was a hand-me-down, rug was bought here in the hardware "store" and the rest are things I was able to bring in my suitcases (good move I would say, though I didn't think the same when we traveled with 9 suitcases!). So, here it is:

Love my ikat pillow covers

My bedside table

Every single night I moisturize my hands right before going to bed.

A square dish that holds recently used jewels.

On top of my dresser: jewelry, wedding pictures, sunglasses.

Not pictured: Bowl with headbands, phone and router.

Jewelry on display

The dishes and the colors make me smile everyday

Earrings and rings

My rug at the end of the bed

A pretty bag that I love looking at everyday

*****************
Don't you love it?? How incredibly stylish is she?? I love all of the beautiful ways she has organized her amazing jewels... Thank you so much Gaby for sharing your space. You will find more eye candy on Gaby's blog, so be sure to check it out!

Game Day Guacamole

2012-01-31T05:53:00.003-06:00

So I had all of these plans to post a sweet, lemony recipe today. As I finished the recipe, I remembered that the Super Bowl is this weekend! Therefore, a party recipe is in order! So I whipped up this guacamole that is a feast for your taste buds!

Let me just say that I heart guacamole. I heart it a whole, whole, whole lot...

I usually don't add red onions or tomatoes to my guacamole, but I saw Ree make it on her show last weekend and she made it look so good! So I thought I would try it out...

I confess that I ate that ENTIRE bowl after I photographed it. So good!

Is your mouth watering? Mines is and I'm not even hungry right now... Here is what you need and what to do:

3 Avocados, diced

2 Tomatoes, seeded and diced

1/2 of a large red onion, finely diced

Cilantro, to taste

1 jalapeno, seeded and diced (if you like it hot!)

Juice of 1 lime

Salt to taste

In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, onion, cilantro, jalapeno, lime juice and salt. Then add the avocado and stir. I like chunky guacamole, so I don't mash the avocados. But feel free to mash them up a bit with a fork if you like.

If you are making this a little ahead of time, place plastic wrap directly on top of the guacamole (not just on the bowl, but right on top of the guacamole) and store it in the fridge- but only for maybe a day. It's best if it's devoured a few hours after you make it. This makes about 6 servings.

Are you attending a Super Bowl party??

Linked up with Tasty Tuesdays!

P.S. I will share the sweet, lemony recipe next week!

Image by me

Weekend In Six Pics

2012-01-30T05:30:00.024-06:00

Hi there! Whew... I had a busy, busy weekend! How about you? Gosh I wish someone had the power to change our standard 2-day weekend to a 3-day weekend! I need an extra day! Perhaps that is because I spent a good chunk of my weekend in TJMaxx and HomeGoods. Let me fill you in on that...

I am finally getting around to decorating my office at work! I shopped at TJMaxx and HomeGoods and boy did they have some good stuff! My inspiration were the orange lamps with the burlap shade that I found at HomeGoods (see the top shelf of the first photo). I TOTALLY didn't plan on decorating my office with hints of orange, but I really loved those lamps. The photo on the right is a little sneak peek of the office. Whatcha think??

Breaking news people: TJMaxx is selling leopard loafers! Of course they didn't have any in my size. That would be too much like right. But the point is that they are there, so check your local store! I did buy a really cute trench coat for $39 bucks and a pair of Lucky Brand flats that are REALLY comfortable. Like I said, check your local TJMaxx!

Sorry, but I have one more thing to say about TJMaxx... Is that not the cutest Kate Spade bag?? $149 bucks. TJMaxx was on a roll! I contained myself and didn't buy it. Sigh... After running between TJMaxx and HomeGoods, I was starving! So I stopped for a Mediterranean hummus wrap at Vermont Mustard Company and it was amazing! If you are in the Atlanta area, stop by!

Please tell me about your weekend!

xo,

Fitted & Flared {Dior}

2012-01-27T05:30:00.006-06:00

I didn't have time to put together a Friday's Fancies post this week.

Super busy week.

But I thought these amazing Dior dresses would be a great substitute...

I hope you have a great weekend friends. :)

Image via

Things I Love, Not Like

2012-01-26T05:30:00.028-06:00

Lately, I have had the urge to buy everything in sight that I just "like," not love or need. Not good. Do you ever feel that way?

Well, to curb my urges to splurge I have started taking trips around my house with my camera. I photograph little things that I already have- and love. It helps- well, most of the time...

A stack of books and magazines that share the bed with me.

Reading and flipping through these at night calms me down after long days. They also give me inspiration for the things I share with you here...

Striped straws.

Accessorizing a cold glass of milk, sparkling water or my green drink with one of these seems to make the drink 10 times more appetizing. Love that...

A styled fruit board.

I love fruit, too. And yes, I sometimes style my fruit board as if I were about to host a brunch for four people. I keep it on the kitchen table to snack on during the day. Styling them makes the fruit more appealing and keeps me from craving things like french fries and massive doses of chocolate chips.

A green plant in my foyer.

It was given to me by my mom- one reason I love it. It brings so much freshness and life to the space- two more reasons I love it. It's actually growing into the middle of the foyer and needs to be repotted. I don't have a green thumb- at all. I don't even know what kind of plant that is (told ya I don't have a green thumb). I just water it once a week and it seems to be satisfied- another reason I love it.

What do you do to control your urge to splurge?

How Convenient...

2012-01-25T05:30:00.004-06:00

How convenient are...

Two farm sinks instead of just one...

A basket full of fresh towels right next to the sink, a pretty antique sink at that...

A double-duty nightstand...

And a view of the Eiffel Tower from a workspace...

I'd never get any work done there. Would you?

Images 1/2-3/4

My Favorite Breakfast

2012-01-24T05:30:00.021-06:00

Nothing about my favorite breakfast in the world is ground-breaking, but I love it. I start my day with this filling and healthy breakfast 3-4 days a week and have been for about 3 years, so I thought it was worthy of making an appearance on my blog...

It's incredibly simple to make. Here's what you need and what to do...

A toasted, hearty slice of whole wheat bread

Your favorite peanut butter (Smuckers Natural Chunky PB is my favorite)

Ripe, delicious bananas- organic ones taste more banana-ey (not a word, I know)

Sticky, sweet honey

Slather a layer of peanut butter on top of the toasted bread
Sometimes I heat the peanut butter up in the microwave for a few seconds to make it more slatherable...
Add sliced bananas on top of the peanut butter

Then slowly, yes slowly, drizzle honey on top of the bananas

Drink it with a cold glass of creamy milk or your favorite hot tea, then enjoy your day.

What is your favorite breakfast?

Linked up with Tasty Tuesdays

Images by me

A Perfect Quiet Weekend

2012-01-23T05:30:00.019-06:00

Hi there! How was your weekend? My weekend was very quiet, which made doing my regular "Weekends In" a little difficult. So I am switching things up a bit today. I hope that's ok...

The pic above sort of sums up my weekend. The sun never came out over the weekend, so I chose to spend much of my time in the middle of my bed surrounded by magazines, the remote, books, my laptop, my Kindle, and a sleeping cat. It was quite lovely. I snacked on the most delicious strawberries and downed a Synergy, my favorite drink. I also had the kale and spinach smoothie that I posted last week- two times. I ~~think~~ know I'm obsessed with it. I'm currently reading my third book this year, which is a world record for me. It's called Epilogue. Joanna's description of the book last week sucked me right in. It's about love, loss, family and relationships. Right up my alley. And did I tell you I signed up for my first food photography retreat?? It's hosted by Clare and Helene of Tartelette and I am thrilled!

Oh and that gray and navy striped thing in the background is my new StyleMint tee (the Fillmore). I wore it during the day Saturday as I lounged. It's so soft. Love it.

How was your weekend? Do tell...

xo,

Friday's Fancies: Navy & Diamonds

2012-01-20T05:30:00.015-06:00

Well, I hope you had a good week! I have to say that my week was pretty good, but not better than two days off will be!

So this week's Friday's Fancies is inspired by my drug of choice: Pinterest. I am currently inspired by navy. Can you tell it's a little more prevalent lately? I did a quick search (on my iPhone while I was in line at the grocery store) for "Navy fashion" and the girl with the blond hair and the navy blazer appeared. That would be the cute girl on the left...

Jeans /Blazer /Shirt /Earrings /Heels /Bag /Perfume /Diamond Band

The blazer said hello. I said hello back. I adore it...

So I did a little work and a little dreaming to recreate this look. I personally am not a fan of rolled up boyfriend jeans. They are cute, but not cute on me. So I opted for a regular boyfriend jean instead. Navy and nude are good friends, so that bag is perfect. It's by J Crew and is currently on my wish list. It has 400 compartments and doesn't look like something my grandmother would carry. Love that.

Navy suede Prada heels. Enough said. And have I mentioned that I love Chanel perfume?

I thought this look needed a little sparkle. Who doesn't love diamonds?? The diamond earrings are very delicate and beautiful. The ring is equally as beautiful. If only it were $11 instead of $11,000. Sigh...

What are your thoughts about navy?? Oh, and you can find me here on Pinterest if you like!

Linking up with Friday's Fancies!

Beginning To End

2012-01-19T05:30:00.008-06:00

I'd love to begin my day here

With a hot cup of tea

An egg white omelette with fresh fruit on the side

And the absence of a to-do list...

And end my day here
With a glass of Sauvignon Blanc
Maybe the bottle, too
Tons of candles
A juicy novel
And ZERO interruptions...

Just sayin'...

Images 1/2

A Tote Of Hearts

2012-01-18T05:30:00.007-06:00

When I saw this double-sided organic tote in the latest issue of InStyle, I just smiled. Doesn't it make you smile? Simple. Cute. Perfect V-day gift.

Kale, Spinach & Pear Smoothie

2012-01-17T05:30:00.012-06:00

I must be honest. Before I wrote the Going Green post that I shared last week, I planned to share a recipe with you that I made over the holidays that involved two sticks of butter, three cups of sugar, three cups of flour and six eggs. Whole eggs that is.

But this green dream of a drink is probably 1,200 calories healthier and dare I say, almost better than what I originally planned to share.

The drink involves half of one of these beautiful Bosc pears...

and a handful of this Lacinato kale.

I never would put the two of those ingredients together...

But they work. Very well. Promise.

Here is what you need and what to do:

1 1/2 cups of cold almond milk

1/2 pear, diced

1 cup of spinach

1 cup of chopped kale- stems removed

1 frozen banana

1 tablespoon of honey

Add the spinach, kale and almond milk into a blender and blend until the mixture is very smooth. Then add the pear, banana and honey. Blend again until smooth.

When you take your first sip, you will taste the banana, the almond milk and a hint of sweetness from the pear and the honey. The spinach and the kale are certainly there, but are hidden somewhere in the background. I could barely taste them. Crazy!

My body and I thank Joy The Baker for sharing this genius of a drink.

Oh and P.S... Drink this with a straw if you don't want to get caught walking around with little pieces of kale or spinach in between your teeth!

Linked up with Tasty Tuesdays!

Images by me

Weekend In Seven

2012-01-16T05:30:00.053-06:00

Hi friends! I hope you had a great weekend! My weekend was great, but between errands, Pilates, laundry, cleaning, cooking for the week- it ended quite fast. Is it bad that we are only 15 days into the New Year and I already feel like I need a vaca? Please tell me I'm not alone. Anyway, despite all of that, I do have a few fun and random things to fill you in on. Here goes...

1. I have a new celebrity BFF- Ree Drummond. If you read my blog often, you might know that I am kinda in love with her and her blog. The new season of her cooking show started on Saturday on Food Network and it was so good. I let her know that I loved it via Twitter. She wrote me back. I love her even more now. Oh, Charlie is her adorable basset hound.

2. Over the weekend, I went to see The Descendants. It was REAL people. SO SO good and funny, too. The actors and actresses were fabulous. The scenery and the decor were beautiful. The walls of Clooney's home were covered in this beautiful grasscloth. Am I the only one who pays equal attention to the decor and the plot of movies? Oh and Clooney was well, just delicious.

3. Ok bloggers. Be honest. Do you ever have moments were you think, "What the heck am I going to write about today?" I do. And often. Well the lovely Kate of Centsational Girl wrote a post last week about what to write about when you don't know what to write about. Genius idea. I printed it off and filed it as if it were an important document.

4. And speaking of blogging, I thought this nailed it. Lately, I have been struggling with balance when it comes to blogging. Being creative, responding to comments, commenting on other blogs, photographing food, editing photos, writing posts (at night, during lunch, on the weekends), all while remembering to call my parents every night- well it's a lot! Please let me know if you feel the same way!

5. Remember me telling you that I had a date this weekend with this green drink? Well, we went out after Pilates on Saturday. We went out again on Sunday for lunch. It was surprisingly so very good. I will give you the 411 tomorrow...

6. My new favorite snack: Sweet potato barbecue chips by Food Should Taste Good. They are crunchy, spicy, and just warm. I might have eaten that entire bowl over the weekend. I'll never tell.

via

7. There were so many great dresses last night, but my best dressed award goes to Jessica Alba. I loved all of the blush and nude last night, but her lavendar dress was quite lovely. I also loved Hellen Mirren's and Elle MacPherson's gowns. Did you watch the Globes? Who got your best dressed award?

Happy MLK Day! I hope you have a great week!

xo,

Friday's Fancies: Feelin' Green

2012-01-13T05:30:00.014-06:00

Happy happy happy Friday! Can you tell I'm happy it's Friday?? Today's Friday's Fancies is all about COLOR. I'll be honest- wearing color is a bit of a challenge for me. Half of my closet is filled with black, brown and gray clothing. I can't help it! That's not to say that I never wear color. When I do wear color, I tend to wear one piece of color and I make it the star...

Scarf /Watch /Bag /Coat /Jeans /Earrings /Ring /Boots

Green is often on my mind during this time of the year. It's fresh, it's the color of vegetables (which I am eating lots of right now), and it gets me excited about spring. The star of the show is obviously that darling coat. The flared bottom has my heart. Does it have yours?

I'm not tired of leopard yet, so I've paired the coat with "light" leopard and gold accessories. I didn't want the leopard to steal the show, so that's why one can only see it if they peek inside that beauty of a Fendi bag. And aren't those fringes on the boots cute? Lovely little detail... I was going to choose a boot with a fierce heel, but my feet are killing me right now as I write this post (from the heels I wore today), so I'm not feelin' heels at the moment. The outfit still looks ok right?

Can you see yourself wearing this? What color is on your mind these days??

Linked up with Friday's Fancies!!

Carrying Cameras In Style

2012-01-11T05:30:00.021-06:00

When I bought my camera last year, I just went a few shelves over in the store to get a camera bag. I needed something quick, so I bought this lunchbox looking thing. I'm thankful for it. However, it looks like it should hold a sandwich, chips, an apple and a juicebox instead of a DSLR camera! So on my current wishlist is a stylish, yet functional camera bag. I'm liking these...

1.2.3.4.5.6

Aren't those cute??!! They are the quite the opposite from the lunchboxes or backpacks I often see in the stores. I love their clean lines and the fact that they are leather- very classy. Some of them even hold both a laptop and a camera! I hope to purchase a new bag soon, so let me know if you have any other suggestions!

P.S. That is my second Photoshop graphic (see yesterday's post for the 1st one). I'm learning! See this post if you are wondering why I am so excited about that.

xo,

Going Green

2012-01-10T05:30:00.023-06:00

Over the holidays while I was eating gumbo, cake, chips and candy, I made this collage to get myself prepared for real life eating. By the way, this was the first collage I made in Photoshop. How'd I do??

Anyway, to jump start my body and quite frankly my mind, I did some reading on the health benefits of some of my favorite greens like kale, spinach, green beans, and avocado. Seeing words and phrases like "antioxidants," "cancer-fighting," "healthy skin" and "protein-rich" were not new to me, but helped me get motivated. It also made me feel guilty about the five slices of pound cake I ate. Sigh... So I set out to find some new "green" recipes to get me going...

Avocado & Edamame Salad

Green Bean w/ Whole Grain Mustard & Honey Vinaigrette

Caramelized Brussels Sprouts

Raspberry and Spinach Salad

Kale, Spinach and Pear Smoothie

Do you have a favorite "green" recipe? I've got a date with that smoothie this weekend. I'll let you know how that goes...

P.S. Don't hold it against me if I decide to post a delectable sweet treat next week... :)

Images in collage via

Weekend In Eight

2012-01-09T05:30:00.014-06:00

How was your weekend?? I hope your year got off to a great start! It's been a few weeks since I have done a "Weekend In" post, so today I wanted to fill you in on some exciting things that have happened along with some random things I found over the last few weeks! Here goes...

1. Remember this tasty drink that I featured here? Well, over the holidays it was featured on two food websites! It was featured here on Yummly.com and here on FoodGawker.com. So exciting. Thanks so much to both sites for the feature! Also, thanks to Natasha of Schue Love for featuring it as well! Have any of you tried the drink?

2. Did you know that the startup fund for Pinterest was $40 million?? The AJC (the Atlanta newspaper) recently featured a very interesting article about Pinterest and I was in it! A journalist at the AJC sent out a tweet asking people to e-mail her if they used Pinterest. So I sent her an e-mail and she gave me an interview over the phone! Click here to read the entire article...

3. I have a new favorite app that I must tell you about! It's called Diptic. It enables you to make collages out of photos you have saved to your phone, Facebook, Instagram, etc. The power of the iPhone never ceases to amaze me...

4. A special thank you goes out to Tina of The Enchanted Home! She presented me with the Blog On Fire Award last week. My acceptance speech of Five Things will be up soon! Tina is moving into her dream home this week. By dream home I mean DREAM home. Her closet alone puts Carrie Bradshaw's (in the movie) to shame. Her home is absolutely gorgeous and I highly encourage you to stop by her blog to check it out!

5. So how's the New Year cleanup/cleanout going? Is it going at all? If not, this great and straightforward checklist might help ya out. If you are working on your shedding your wardrobe, click here for another straightforward list of things to do...

6. Blogs make me spend money. Case in point- these two books that I have seen 1,000 times on different blogs. Well, I bought them over the holidays and let me tell ya- they were money well spent. The illustrations are really great in The Perfectly Imperfect Home and Deborah's advice is really easy to follow. Do blogs make you spend money, too?

7. I had lots of time over the holidays to find some new blogs- well they were new to me. I thought I'd share a few of them with you...

College Prep

A Crimson Kiss

Brown Dress With The White Dots

That Inspirational Girl

Fog Island

Air Kiss

8. If you need a laugh to get you going today, click here...

Happy Monday! Oh and Roll Tide!!!

xo,

Friday's Fancies: Saturday Morning Shoes

2012-01-06T05:30:00.006-06:00

Happy Friday!!! I must say, this has been a tough week! I had a little holiday hangover that took a minute to get over. Did you feel the same way?

Well, one of the best things about Friday is that it is the last day of the week that I have to wear work clothes and heels- all day. I love my heels, but dang! So tomorrow as I run my errands, I look forward to being comfortable. I admit that used to run my Saturday morning errands in a sweatshirt, jeans and Nike's. Oh and maybe my hair would be up in a scrunchie... Just being honest. But over time, I have learned that I don't have to sacrifice style for comfort...

Bag/ Watch / Top / Scarf / Jeans / Earrings / Glasses / Loafers

I don't like to spend hours on Saturday mornings picking out an outfit, so I typically start with a simple canvas and add a "star of the show." The star of the show here are those red loafers. They are quite fabulous, huh? They look like they might be pillows for the feet. Love them. I'm not a purse-must-match shoes kind of girl, so I stuck with a black, but far from basic Celine bag. I kept the other accessories stylish, yet simple and comfy- even the eyewear. Glasses- stylish glasses that is- are way more comfy to me than contacts, which is why I often wear glasses.

What does your Saturday morning errands outfit look like? Do you wear jeans, a sweatshirt and a scrunchie? Do tell...

Linked up with Friday's Fancies!!

Mildly Obsessed...

2012-01-04T05:30:00.003-06:00

I'm completely aware that the concept of floor-to-ceiling drapes is far from new. But I'm mildly obsessed with them right now, so you'll have to excuse me. I love the drama. I love the softness. I love the look. Do you?

Images 1/2/3/4

Fusilli With Spinach & Tomatoes

2012-01-03T05:30:00.011-06:00

Well, I probably consumed 50,000 calories in a matter of 5 days over the holidays. No joke. So the minute I got back home, I made a trip to the grocery store and loaded up on tons of water and fresh vegetables.

I had a taste for spinach, so I put out an APB for a recipe starring this green beauty...

I wanted something light, colorful and easy, so I decided on fusilli with spinach and tomatoes...

It was quite delightful...

I used this recipe, but before you click over, note the following:

Prep all of the ingredients while you are waiting for the water to boil for the pasta.

I used Barilla Plus pasta since I had it on hand, but whole wheat pasta would make this extra healthy.

9 oz of spinach seems like a lot, but it cooks down to nothing. I will add more the next time I make this.

I added fresh basil at the end. It adds this wonderful burst of freshness.

Use freshly grated cheese.

This tastes fabulous warm or at room temperature.

Grilled or rotisserie chicken (minus the skin) = a perfect, quick weeknight meal.

Enjoy!

Linked up to Tasty Tuesdays and The Lady Behind The Curtain!

Images by me

xo,

One Word

2012-01-02T05:30:00.020-06:00

Hi friends!! Happy 2012! I am THRILLED about this year for some reason. I have a feeling that tons of exciting things are right around the corner. It's a nice feeling to have I must say...

I made some New Years resolutions last year. Some worked out, most didn't. This year I chose to do something different. Lauren of Simply LKJ gave me a wonderful idea, which was to choose just one word to focus on during the year. I love that.

My word for 2012 is...

I would like to...

Learn more about God

Learn how to be more patient

Learn more about how to really live life. I mean really live...

Learn how to integrate more balance in my life (God help me on that one)
Learn that everything doesn't have to be done right this second...

Learn more about photography

Learn more about food (Baking a chocolate cake is up first- never done that)

Learn how to complain less

Learn how to be more appreciative and thankful

Learn Photoshop (That green circle in the photo above was done in Photoshop. I've got a ways to go, huh?)

Learn how to ride a horse

Learn how to become a better writer
Learn how to stay off my iPhone so dang much (Ugggghhh)

Perhaps if I learn those things, I will come closer to learning my purpose in life, which is a goal I have been working on for a few years now. The journey of trying to find out has been quite a ride. I have my seatbelt on...
..................................

So "learn" is just one word, but it encompasses so much right? I realize that some of the things on my list are things that one learns over time and not in one year, but starting the process is an accomplishment of a goal in my book. I think the learning process will be fine as long as I keep this in mind...

If you had a word for 2012, what would it be?

** "Weekends In" will be back next Monday. Food tomorrow as usual!! **

Images 1/2

xo,

Going Out With Some Style!

2011-12-29T23:46:00.001-06:00

Well, 2012 is almost here! There is something about how "2012" sounds that gets me all excited. It just has a nice ring to it. Know what I mean?

Before I explain this beauty of a dress, let me be honest about something. I have zero plans for attending a New Year's Eve party this year. The plan is for me to be safe and sound at home with a glass of champagne. The plan is also for me to be awake at midnight. We'll see how that goes. That's just how I'm rollin' this year. Am I the only one?

Dress/Earrings/Pumps/Bracelet/Ring/Clutch

So about the outfit. If I were to go out, this is what I would want to wear. I'm not sure how much longer sequins will be in, but I would certainly take advantage of this fabulous trend by wearing a little sparkle. I would probably throw on a pair of opaque black tights if it's a bit nippy out.

The dress says it all to me, so my accessories would be nice and simple. I LOVE that YSL bracelet. It's on sale for $711. I'll race you to buy it! Ha. I think the teardrop earrings would be perfect- especially if I wore my hair back or up. The ring is the cherry on top. It's simple, yet makes a statement. Oh and the shoes... Jimmy Choo platforms. Delicious.

What are your plans for New Years??? Whatever they are, be safe!

Linking up with Friday's Fancies (for the first time I might add)!

P.S. If you want to avoid nursing a hangover on New Years Day, refer to Gwyneth Paltrow's blog post from yesterday. It might help... :)

xo,

In My Spare Time...

2011-12-29T05:30:00.005-06:00

I've had the opportunity to enjoy this thing called spare time this week. I totally forgot how wonderful it is. I am sitting here now watching The Holiday for the 105th time (which might actually be accurate), a clean house and unpacked bags. I am thankful.

Spare time calls for something that I am incredibly addicted to. It starts with a "P." I have been pinning like crazy all week- both on my computer and my iPhone. It's dangerous because it makes me want to...

paint my entire house and buy new furniture TODAY, not tomorrow...

buy chalkboard paint and have a last minute wine and cheese party...

call California Closets to see if they have availability for an appointment TODAY, not tomorrow...

Max out my credit card just on jewelry alone...

and accessorize my toilet. Ha.

But even after all of those thoughts, Pinterest has a way of reminding me of what's really important...

Amen to that.

Linking up with The Vintage Apple!

Images 1.2.3.4.5.6

Holiday Highlights: Christmas Day

2011-12-28T05:30:00.033-06:00

Hi there! Are you still enjoying your week? I wanted to share the last of my Christmas photos with you. I was walking around my house like a mad woman with a camera trying to capture images of the special day.

Starting with breakfast. I made cinnamon rolls for my brother. I wish I could say they are homemade, but they are straight out of the can (Grands) and they are GOOD. I also made this banana bread minus the chocolate chips...

While breakfast was baking, my brother and I organized all of the gifts by person. We put them by each person's spot, which have been the same spots for years.

My 20-something year old brother still loves legos and my dad is retired from NASA. We bought my dad a new shuttle for his home office...

My brother and his lovely girlfriend spent the afternoon putting it together. He is lucky to have a girlfriend who also doesn't mind legos... :)

I got a few cookbooks- Barefoot in Paris and Nigella Christmas! I read them like books. Is that crazy?

My mom's cat, Miles Davis. Empty boxes were his Christmas present. He loves them.

Aren't these wine holders cute? Mom got them from the Dollar Tree...

We wanted to mix things up a little this year, so we had gumbo for Christmas dinner instead of the traditional turkey dinner. We aren't from Louisiana, but I swear my mom makes the best gumbo!

My brother requested a southern-style pound cake for Christmas, so I made my very first one. I was scared. If you are from the south, you might know that these cakes are staples and can be made 100 different ways. Everyone thinks their cake is better than everyone else's. I have now joined that club. I got a little help from Paula Deen and the cake is now all gone! It might be the best one...

My dad loved it and so did my brother, so in my book its the best one. :)

That was our day! Can you tell there was a lot of eating going on??

I'm back home today to continue with real life. Let the cleaning, organizing, and planning begin! Oh and maybe healthier eating, too...

How were your holidays and what are you up to?

xo,

Holiday Highlights via Instagram

2011-12-26T16:54:00.005-06:00

Hi guys! I hope you had a good Christmas and are enjoying your family and some good downtime! I just changed into my second pair of pj's today, so life is fabulous here...

Here are some highlights of the last few days...

My brother introduced me to this fabulous vintage shop in my hometown. I bought the gold clutch for dirt cheap. Love it.

My grandmother is in her late-eighties and can still make the BEST ham. We had it for our Christmas Eve dinner. After dinner, I made my very first southern-style pound cake. We had it for dessert on Christmas day. There is none left, so I assume my family liked it! I am certainly going to share the recipe with you later.

Christmas Day was incredibly fabulous. We did our Christmas morning ritual, which I will share with you in my Christmas Day post coming up later this week. Santa was so gracious. I received several cookbooks, a matured savings bond and Photoshop Elements! My brother (who is in his late 20's) got legos (more on that later). We both spent Christmas morning playing with our "toys" - just like the old days...

I'm off to spend more precious time with my family. See ya later this week!

xo,

So Excited...

2011-12-23T06:30:00.003-06:00

via

I think that is the cutest thing ever...

Are you as excited as he is that Christmas is only two days away??

I am.

I hope that Santa brings you everything you asked for.

Make sure you leave cookies or something for him... I used to leave apple Fig Newtons. He liked them. :)

I'll be spending the next week or so with my family, in my bed sleeping and in my closets and drawers (cleaning out), so I will see you in the New Year. Well, maybe sooner if I need a bloggy fix.

I wish you and your family a wonderful, safe, and happy holiday.

xo,

Casual Holiday Outfit: Tailored Plaid

2011-12-22T09:24:00.001-06:00

Earrings/Watch/Sunnies/Boots/Coat/Jeans/Bag

The dress code for Christmas Day at my house is very casual. Dressing up in our Sunday best and won't be required and our elbows will be allowed on the table...

If I had it my way, this is what I would wear. This whole ensemble is a trillion dollars in my book, but the centerpiece isn't... Isn't that coat amazing? I fell in love with it the minute I saw it. The $177 price tag is quite fabulous... It's tailored, too...

I have got to have that coat...

What are you wearing on Christmas Day??

His & Hers...

2011-12-21T05:30:00.003-06:00

Coffee or tea in these on Christmas morning (or any morning for that matter) with a better half would be darling...

Image via

Oatmeal, Cranberry & Chocolate Chip Cookies

2011-12-20T05:30:00.010-06:00

Chocolate chip cookies are my favorite, but I have this thing for oatmeal cookies around the holidays. I'm not sure why... I have had many of different types of oatmeal cookies, but these are by far my favorite. I think I love them the most because they offer the best of both worlds for me- chewy oatmeal and bittersweet chocolate...

Even better, dried cranberries are involved. So you experience this burst of sweetness when you bite into the cookie. It's quite marvelous.

This cookie is another one of Giada de Laurentiis's masterpieces... I made these on Sunday and after one bite, I completely forgave her for not picking my photo for her contest... :)

If you see yourself eating a few of these (you won't be able to eat just one- I guarantee it ), then click here for Giada's genius recipe.

AND....

I'm debuting my first recipe today over at BluLabel Bungalow! It involves baked apples, a buttery crispy topping and cinnamon whipped cream... Click here if you think your taste buds would be interested!

Linked up to Tasty Tuesdays & The Lady Behind The Curtain!

All images by me

Weekend in Seven

2011-12-19T05:30:00.011-06:00

Hi there! How was your weekend? Did you get everything done for the holidays? Gifts wrapped? Menu planned? I can honestly say that I am almost there due to my jam packed weekend! Here are some highlights and random thoughts...

1. My holiday theme this year is "simple." I applied my theme to my gift wrapping, too. I used postal wrapping paper, simple red satin ribbon, mini ornaments from the $1 section of Target and glittered letters from the scrapbook section of Michael's. By the way, Chad is my brother. The gift to "bro." is also for him. I thought I would get a little more creative with his name. Ha...

2. I never thought I would see the #2 again...

3. I found this blog last week and spent a chunk of time over the weekend reading prior posts. I love it! I think you will, too.

4. Paula of the beautiful blog Two Ellie posted an image of this gorgeous bag last week. I asked Santa if I could add it to my list at this late hour. He said yes, but couldn't make any promises.

5. I watched Pretty Woman for the 1000th time this weekend. Has anyone else seen it more times than me?

6. The weekend before Christmas wouldn't be complete without baking! I made these delicious chewy treats yesterday to share with my office. I'll be sharing the recipe with you tomorrow!

7. I am the new food contributor for BluLabel Bungalow and my first post is up today! I'm sharing my top 10 essentials for the kitchen. The post doubles as a little last-minute gift guide, too! Click here to check it out!

Have a great week before Christmas!!

xo,

Our Holiday Card

2011-12-16T05:30:00.005-06:00

Happy Friday friends!! I thought I would end the week by sharing our holiday card with you. And by "our," I mean me and Maxwell. :) This was the first year that I used Minted and I am so happy with the way they turned out...

I love the back of the card, too...

Max was totally not interested in taking photos that day, but after countless shots and a ripped pair of my favorite leggings, we finally got a few photos where we didn't look like we were going to kill each other!

I am so thankful for the patience and talent of my photographer, Dana of Dana Eason Photography. She is an amazing wedding and lifestyle photographer who was recently featured on Style Me Pretty! So happy for her!

What's up for the weekend? I am going to tackle my mile-long "To Do Before Christmas" list. I can't believe Christmas is only nine days away!! Yikes! Have a great weekend and see ya on Monday!

xo,

High/Low: Wine & Cheese Party

2011-12-15T06:12:00.002-06:00

It's time for another edition of High/Low! I especially love this one because it involves CHEESE! I adore cheese... Hosting a wine and cheese party is definitely on my list of things to do. Good cheese and good wine can be pricey, so keeping the cost down on styling would be my goal.

So, here are the rules: Below are two pictures of a beautifully styled cheese table. One was styled for much less than the other. Can you guess which one?

In my opinion, both of them are still pricey, but this does prove that fabulous styling can be done for less. Click here for the answer and for product details. Let me know if you got it right!

2012 Christmas List: Burberry

2011-12-14T05:30:00.001-06:00

Yep, I've already started my 2012 Christmas List. I'll take any of these coats from Burberry's fall 2012 collection. Aren't they stunning? I'll take a pair of those booties, too...

via Fashion Gone Rogue

Peppermint Piña Colada

2011-12-13T05:30:00.037-06:00

I was flipping through Crate & Barrel's holiday catalog the other day and saw the recipe for this peppermint piña colada...

I love the pink color and it just reminded me of something I might sip on at a holiday party, so I had to try it out! Let me tell ya... it is GOOD! It's sweet, it's creamy and it's refreshing all in one.

There are only 6 ingredients:

Handful of Ice

3 oz of coconut milk (be sure to shake the can first)

1 1/2 oz of premium white rum

1 oz of pineapple juice

2 peppermint sticks

Mint (for garnish)

Add the 1st four ingredients to a shaker and shake it up. Pour in a glass. Break up one of the peppermint sticks and put it in the drink. This will give the drink the peppermint flavor and create the pink color as it melts. Garnish with the mint and a peppermint stick. This recipe makes one drink, so double or triple it based on your needs and/or desires! Enjoy and remember to drink responsibly! :)

The lovely Natasha of Schue Love is hosting a holiday recipe linky party today and I'm linked up! I'm also linked up to Tasty Tuesdays!

Images by me

Weekend In Five

2011-12-12T05:30:00.055-06:00

Hi there! I hope you had a great weekend! My weekend consisted of a ton of errands, two naps (I needed them- badly), and making and photographing two recipes. I was a busy girl, so I only have five highlights for ya today...

1. I wanted to give you an update on the photo that I entered for Giada's de Laurentiis's Facebook photo contest. Giada chose and announced the winners last Thursday. No win here. A 10 year old girl actually entered the same dish I made. Her mom photographed it for her. She won 2nd place. Her photo was really good. 10 years old... Oh well, better luck next time and thanks so much for your votes! Much appreciated!

2. I started the weekend off by getting a manicure. Manicures make everything better and I needed it to help me get over my busy week. The color is Clutch Me If You Can by Essie. Love it.

3. I had an extra wreath and finally found a place for it- my headboard. Now this made me feel better...

4. I almost ate an entire bag of these this weekend. I LOVE LOVE LOVE these blue chips. They are made by Food Should Taste Good. They are all natural, gluten-free and contain only a few ingredients- all of which are healthy and recognizable. I like them with salsa or topped with a slice of turkey and pepperjack cheese. Try them. The jalapeno chips taste fabulous, too...

5. I got this cute vase at TJMaxx over the weekend for a grand total of $3.99. I love it! I used the candy canes for the recipe that I will be sharing tomorrow for Natasha's linky party, so make sure you stop by!

Happy Monday!

Around My House {Holiday Decor}

2011-12-08T05:30:00.020-06:00

Right now, I am writing this post at my kitchen table with a cup of hot tea. It's freezing outside. All of the lights are out with the exception of the tiny white lights on my mantle of my tree. They both happen to be in my direct view. Oh and a Sex & The City rerun is on TV. My point is that I'm in heaven!

Here are some glimpses of what I'm looking at. Like I said here, I kept things nice and simple this year...

The color scheme was green, gold and cream. I just wanted to keep things cozy, soft and calm and those colors did it for me. Max loves this West Elm throw that I used as the tree skirt, so he spends quite a bit of time under the tree. I've been spending quite a bit of time on the couch just enjoying the view. That is where I'm headed right now... If you want to know the source of any of my decor, just ask me in the comment section. I will be glad to reply to ya!

I heart the holidays...

Linked up to:

Nesting Place

Michaela Noelle Designs

The Inspired Room

Gift For New Moms: Magic Stroller Bag

2011-12-07T05:49:00.001-06:00

I heart these diaper bags...

...............................................

It's different, stylish and functional. I also think it's the perfect gift for a baby shower or Christmas gift for a new mom.

These are made by The Magic Stroller Bag. Unfortunately, they are located in Paris and you can't order them on their site. But, there are other stores that sell them. The price ranges from $150 - $400, depending on the site that sells them. So shop around if you are interested!

Cupcakes In A Mason Jar

2011-12-06T05:30:00.009-06:00

Yep, you read that right! Those are chocolate cupcakes that have been in baked mason jars! How neat is that? These were made by my girl Jess of Forgiving Martha. Genius idea. Wouldn't they make great gifts?

Weekend In Eight

2011-12-05T05:30:00.046-06:00

Hello! How was your weekend? Did you do any Christmas shopping? If so, did you buy me something? J/K. I did some shopping- on Amazon. I am so thankful for Amazon. Everything I needed was in stock, the shipping was free and there were no crowds. Amen to that. Here are some other things that happened over the weekend...

1. My weekend started off with this glass of Sauvignon Blanc. Last week was crazy and I felt discouraged most of the week about random things. I don't drink that often, but I needed the wine. I feel much better now.

2. Giada de Laurentiis responded to my tweets on Friday night. She posted a pic of her wearing this argyle sweater and I asked her where it was from. I love her style. This is the second time she has answered one of my questions on Twitter. In my book, we are now BFF's.

3. I am as mesmerized by Christmas lights as a baby who sees Christmas lights for the first time. I love them! The Atlanta Botanical Gardens is currently hosting "Garden Lights" and I went on Saturday night. So beautiful. If you are in the Atlanta area, I highly recommend it.

4. I roasted marshmallows and had s'mores for the first time this weekend. I'm late in the game. I know. The Botanical Gardens offered them during the Garden tour, so I tried it out. It tasted like a pillow of chocolatey heaven in my mouth. So simple and so good!

5. I love reading and hearing about how couples meet and fall in love. Lauren of Aspiring Kennedy is currently writing about how she met the love of her life. I read the latest chapter on Sunday morning and was just as engaged as most people are with the Sunday newspaper. If you read it, start here with The Prologue.

6. Savor Home is now on Facebook!! I'm just as late with that as I am with roasting marshmallows. I am completely aware of that. I'll be posting random thoughts, happenings, products and blogs that I like in addition to my posts. I would love for you to Like me!

7. I saved the best news for last! Erika of BluLabel Bungalow is expanding her blog and she selected me to be the food contributor! Me! Erika is a very talented interior designer who I consider a friend and I am so excited! My intro post is up on her blog. Click here to check it out!

8. I think this week is already off to a good start. Amen to that.

xo,

Simple, Green and White

2011-12-01T06:04:00.000-06:00

These photos remind me of my holiday decor theme this year...

Simple.

Isn't it beautiful? Only 25 more days...

Images via

Wishlist: Bags

2011-11-30T05:30:00.006-06:00

I admit that I used to buy maybe one purse a year. I know... But thanks to blogs, the change in my sense of fashion and whatever else, I now have a bigger appreciation for bags. I change my bag out on most weekends, which would have been unheard of a few years ago.

These bags are calling my name...
#'s 1 and 5 would be great for work.

#1 is a Victoria Beckham bag. I love it. It's sleek. It's classic. It's probably the most expensive. Sigh...

#'s 2 and 3 are Zara bags. Perfect colors. Perfect for the weekend. Perfect gifts, too I think.
I imagine wearing #4 as a crossbody bag. I love saddle bags. I think they are perfect to wear while shopping or traveling.

Would you like one of each, too?

Christmas Quinoa Salad

2011-11-29T05:30:00.014-06:00

I mentioned yesterday that I put myself into a food coma last week. So on Sunday, I treated my body to some healthy food by making this quinoa salad...

This was my first time making quinoa and I have been missing out! Quinoa is full of protein, iron and calcium, so it is incredible for your body. Whole Foods has a great site all about it. I cooked it with chicken broth and it was very flavorful. I made it even more healthy and flavorful by adding some fresh vegetables and cheese. The colors reminded me of Christmas. Here is what you need and what to do...

1 cup of quinoa

2 cups of chicken broth

Hot house cucumber, diced

Chopped walnuts

Cherry tomatoes, cut in half

Feta cheese

Green onions (green and white parts), chopped

Salt and pepper, to taste

Rinse the quinoa in a fine sifter until the water runs clear. Add the quinoa and the chicken broth to a pot and bring it up to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes or until all of the liquid is dissolved. Be sure to cook it with the lid on the pot. Add the quinoa to a bowl and let it cool. Once it has cooled, add the vegetables, cheese, nuts, salt and pepper. You will have about 3 cups of quinoa, so add as many vegetables, nuts and cheese as you like.

It is good as is, but a lemon vinaigrette makes it taste even better. Just whisk together one part fresh lemon juice, two parts extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Serve with some grilled chicken or fish and you will be in business!!

Linked up with Tasty Tuesdays!

xo,

Images by me

Weekend In Nine

2011-11-28T05:30:00.010-06:00

Hello!! How is everyone doing? Things are good here. I had a great weekend with my family. I ate tons, slept tons and pretty much feel like I am caught up. What a lovely feeling... Here are some other highlights from last week and weekend:

1. My brother and I were in TJMaxx last week. He saw this coat was dangling on a hanger and asked me to try it on. I gave him a crazy look as I was not in the market for a coat, especially one that looked like that- on the hanger. But I tried it on and SOLD! I love the details and how it fits. Perfect for the holidays...

2. We bought the coat on Wednesday. On Thursday, I had the best time with my family! I also ate myself into a food coma. My brother and I tried to fight it off by taking a walk around my uncle's backyard. It didn't work.

3. A few reasons why I was in a food coma...

4. My brother shot this while we were on our walk. He loves playing around with cameras like I do. I was so full in that pic. Full of food that is...

5. I hope my coat still fits. I haven't tried it on since Wednesday. I really ate lots.

6. Friday was my mom's birthday. We talked, talked some more, put up her Christmas tree and ate leftovers. No shopping. Hanging out with her in our pj's all day was much more enjoyable.

7. I put the majority of my Christmas decorations up over the weekend! I am SO excited about the holidays. Mom bought this wreath for me at Hobby Lobby and I love it. I hope to photograph everything else this week!

8. I FINALLY had time to figure out how to use Polyvore. Hallelujah!! I know I am lightyears late on learning it. Better late than never...

9. If you need a little inspiration about life, relationships, starting your own business, blogging etc., read this post by my girl Rhoda of Southern Hospitality.

xo,

Thankful & Comfy

2011-11-24T05:30:00.018-06:00

Today I am giving many thanks with my family. I have so many things to be thankful for. I made lists of some things I am thankful for here and here. Here is another little list...

Today I am thankful for my grandparents. They are in their late 80's and are in perfect health. I am so lucky.

Today I am thankful for my brother. He ran errands with me other day and patiently listened to me as I complained about some of everything. I was having a moment. Then he took me out for pizza and then to Starbucks. I love him.

Today I am thankful for the food I am about to receive that was cooked by my wonderful aunt- turkey, ham, mac & cheese, dressing, collard greens, cranberry sauce, apple pie and all kinds of other stuff. My mouth is watering...

Today I am thankful for the time I will have to take a nap. I heart naps.

Today I am thankful for comfy clothes and leftovers. I will look kinda like this later today. Bedhead and scarf will be included...

And I am certainly thankful for you. Your comments and e-mails keep me going more than you could ever know. I hope you and your family have a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving! See ya on Monday.

xo,

Images via

Mini Pumpkin Cupcakes

2011-11-22T05:30:00.049-06:00

Don't those look yummy?? Well, they are! They are these moist and delicious one-biters that my friends devour each time they eat them. A good friend of mine shared this recipe with me and it would only be right if I shared it with you. Here is what you need and what to do for the cupcakes...

2 cups of flour

2 cups of sugar

1/2 teaspoon of salt

2 teaspoons of baking powder

2 teaspoons of baking soda

2 teaspoons of cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon each of ground cloves and ground nutmeg

3 eggs

1 16oz can of pumpkin puree

1 cup of canola oil

Not the healthiest I know, but the recipe makes 96 one-biter cupcakes. Feel better? Good. Feel free to half this recipe if you need to.

Preheat the oven to 350. Place liners in the mini cupcake pans. In a large bowl, mix all of the dry ingredients together. In a separate bowl, whisk all of the wet ingredients together. No mixer is necessary for the cupcakes, but you will need one for the frosting. Fill each mini muffin cup about 2/3's of the way full. Bake for about 12 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Your nose will also tell you when they are ready.

Here is what you need and what to do for that FABULOUS frosting...

3 cups of confectioners sugar

2 sticks of unsalted butter, room temperature

1 teaspoon of vanilla

1-2 tablespoons of whipping cream

2 teaspoons of cinnamon

Using a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, mix the butter and sugar. Mix on low speed until well blended and then increase the speed to medium and beat for another 3 minutes. Add the vanilla and cream and beat for another minute. Add a little more cream if you would like a thinner frosting. Then add the cinnamon and beat until it is incorporated. I put the frosting into a Ziplock back and piped it on the cupcakes, but you could frost them any way you like.

Linked up with Tasty Tuesdays!

Images by me

P.S. On a totally different note, I am over at Gaby's blog, The Vault Files, participating in her "In My Makeup Bag" series, so stop by!

Weekend In Seven

2011-11-21T05:30:00.009-06:00

Hi guys! It's the start of one of my FAVORITE weeks of the year! Thanksgiving! I spent the weekend tackling my to-do list and thankfully was able to get a lot done. Here are a few of those things mixed with a little randomness...

1. Well, I put up a few Christmas decorations. Just a few. I usually wait until the Sunday after Thanksgiving, but I couldn't help myself. For some reason, I am more excited about this Christmas than I have been in a long time. Am I the only one? Decorating will commence on Sunday... :) :)

2. This was a mocha that I devoured at brunch on Sunday at West Egg Cafe in Atlanta. If you are ever in the neighborhood, do yourself a huge favor and eat there. The food is fantastic and that is probably the best mocha I have ever had. Sorry Starbucks...

3. After brunch, I headed to the grocery store to stock up on some veggies to nibble on for the next few days. Eating super healthy the next few days will make me feel better about eating really really really bad on Thursday and Friday. I know that's not the best rationale...

4. I took a stroll through Restoration Hardware over the weekend. Sigh... My wish list gets longer every time I go in there! I added this bed to the list. Nailhead heaven.

5. Is there an awards show for the best commercials? If so, the Target 2011 Black Friday commercial should win the Oscar of all commercials. I saw it several times over the weekend and I laughed every single time! That lady is hilarious! That is the commercial just in case you haven't see it yet.

6. My weekend wouldn't be complete without pinning. Do you ever think Pinterest will go out of style? Anyway, this was my top pin of the weekend- camera lenses for the iPhone 4/4S. You can find them here. Genius I tell ya.

7. Thanks to all of you who have voted for my photo in Giada's Facebook photo contest! I really appreciate it! Voting is still open and will be until December 2nd. If you are on Facebook and would like to vote, just click here! You can even vote once a day if you like!

Happy Monday!

Oh and P.S. I'm over at Laura's lovely blog, Bright Bold & Beautiful sharing three things that I am thankful for!

xo,

Write It Down: Minted Journals

2011-11-18T05:30:00.003-06:00

I don't know about you, but I am always making some sort of list and have recently started a gratitude journal. Lists keep me and my mind in order and I am in a much better mood when I am reminded of reasons to be thankful. So these journals and by Minted make me super happy...

These are a few of my favorites. I think the last one with the pic of my Maxwell might be my most favorite... And don't you think they would be a great gift? They are available here for $16 each. OR you can click here to head over to Camille's beautiful blog. She is giving away a $75 gift certificate towards the purchase of these journals!

What's up for the weekend? Speaking of to-do lists, I have one a mile long. Why can't I ever seem to get caught up?? Sigh... I'll be tackling that list and getting ready for Thanksgiving! I hope you have a great weekend!

xo,

A Little Gold: Serena & Lily

2011-11-17T05:30:00.009-06:00

I made a visit to Serena & Lily's the other night I must say that I love their new items for this season. These accessories really caught my eye...

It's no secret that gold is in and I am loving the gold detail on these items! Those bowls would be perfect for serving snacks at a holiday party or maybe as an accessory on a dresser or nightstand. I think the detail on that lamp is quite lovely. And well, you know I love circular mirrors. Hurricanes remind me of the holidays. Those would be pretty all lit up at a holiday party, too. Gosh, now I want to plan a party...

A Winner!!!

2011-11-16T07:01:00.000-06:00

The lucky winner of this one of these cuddly super soft West Elm throws is...

Amanda of Amanda Carol Interiors! Congratulations!

Amanda is an amazing interior designer. This home office she designed is one of my favorites...

and her living room is really beautiful as well...

I think the throw would look perfect in there!

Her blog has much more eye candy, so be sure to check it out!

Congrats again!

xo,

Chocolate Chip Cookies: Neimans Style

2011-11-15T05:30:00.023-06:00

Me and chocolate are BFF's, so I love a good chocolate chip cookie. By good I mean rich, soft and delectable. I'm not a fan of hard cookies. At all. Their are lots of good recipes out there, but the Neiman Marcus Chocolate Chip Cookie fits the bill- my bill that is.

The first time I had this cookie was at the Zodiac Cafe (now NM Cafe) in Dallas, TX. It is located inside of the original Neiman Marcus. They served the cookie to me warm on a warm plate, with a cold glass of milk. I took a bite and I melted. For real. The waiter told me the recipe was online. I smiled. It's the only chocolate chip cookie I have made since then and I serve it to my friends the same way.

You should try it. Here is what you need and what to do:

1 stick of unsalted butter- room temperature

1 cup of light brown sugar

3 tablespoons of granulated sugar

1 large egg- room temperature

2 teaspoons of vanilla

1 3/4 cups of all purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon of salt

1/2 teaspoon of baking powder

1/2 teaspoon of baking soda

1 1/2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 1/2 teaspoons of instant espresso powder

Preheat the oven to 300 degrees. Place the butter, brown sugar and granulated sugar in an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Cream them together for about 2 minutes. Add the egg and the vanilla. In a mixing bowl, sift the flour, salt, baking soda and baking powder. Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in three batches. Using a spatula, fold in the espresso and chocolate chips.

Drop the cookies on nonstick cookie sheet or greased cookie sheet using 1 ounce ice cream scoop or a 2 tablespoon measure. Gently mash the cookie so that it forms a 2 inch circle. Bake for about 20 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are light brown. Bake for about 23 minutes if you want a crispier cookie. But they taste better soft, served warm, on a warm plate, with really cold milk. Trust me.

Linked up with Tasty Tuesdays and The Lady Behind The Curtain!

Images by me

********
Today is the last day to enter my West Elm throw giveaway! Click here for your chance to win!

Weekend in Six

2011-11-14T05:30:00.023-06:00

Hi guys! I hope you had a great weekend. I only have six things for ya today. I unfortunately got a nasty sinus infection that decided to show up last Friday. So the fun weekend I had planned with my mom didn't happen. Blah.

1. Even though mom and I didn't get to have our fun weekend, she still took care of me. I admit that I am not that much fun to be around when I am not feeling well.

But she still made me lots of tea and made sure I drank lots of water. She also taught me how to use a Neti Pot. Genius invention.

AND she made me a big ol' pot of chicken and vegetable soup. I love her.

2. Because of the gallons of water I drank, Mucinex-D, mom's soup and rest, I felt good enough to get my first fall manicure on Sunday. I chose "We'll Always Have Paris" by OPI. There is nothing like a fresh mani...

3. I used Instagram to take the photos above. I've become a little obsessed with it lately. I have developed this love for photography and I enjoy seeing creative photos by others. I love photos by @glitterguide, @lemonandlavender and @heygorg.

@taza of RockStar Diaries is also a favorite. Her husband and adorable daughter Eleanor have the same hair in that photo. Too cute.

4. Being stuck in bed with wireless internet is not good sometimes. My online shopping carts start to fill up. I almost bought this necklace by House of Harlow. Love it.

5. I am really ready for Christmas. I saw the Hershey's Kisses "We Wish You A Merry Christmas" commercial over the weekend and got so excited. That commercial never gets old to me.

6. Are you on Facebook?? Do you have any friends or family on Facebook? If so, the voting for Giada's Facebook photo contest starts TONIGHT!

I submitted this dish and am hoping to win at least and honorable mention! I would love your vote! And your friends vote, too... Click here to view and vote for my entry!

I hope you guys have a great week. Thanks mom for taking care of me!

Oh and one more thing... I'm giving away a soft and snuggly West Elm throw to a lucky reader! Click here for your chance to win!

xo,

Chandy On The Side

2011-11-11T05:30:00.001-06:00

I was browsing one of my favorite tumblr sites and this elegant image instantly caught my eye. Of course I love the soft green color. The framed fabric headboard is beautiful (a good DIY?) and the antique chandy on the side is quite lovely. I'd love to spend my weekend in this space, but my mom is here with me. Spending time with her is much better.

I want to thank you for all of your beautiful comments yesterday. It was honestly one of the best birthdays I have had in a very long time and your comments definitely contributed to that. Thank you so very much.

I hope you had a wonderful weekend. And happy 11/11/11!

xo,

32 & Thankful

2011-11-10T05:30:00.003-06:00

Today is my birthday.

Today I am 32.

Today I am healthy.

Today I have the most supportive and wonderful family and friends.

Today I have a job.

Today I have a car that is all paid for.

Today I have a warm and cozy home.

Today my mom is coming to see me for the weekend.

Today is a gift.

Today I look forward to the future.

Today I am incredibly thankful.

xo,

Image via

Blogiversary & A West Elm Giveaway!!

2011-11-09T05:30:00.008-06:00

I mentioned on Monday that my blogiversary was a few weeks ago. I totally missed it. It was right after busy season ended and my mind was on relaxation and sleep.

But I am awake now, and I have a little speech prepared. Just a little one.

First, I want to thank you for reading my blog. Savor Home was the creative outlet that I desperately needed a year ago (and still do). At first, I felt like I was talking to myself and was not really sure of what I was doing. Never did I think that so many of you would eventually be reading, listening and looking forward to what I have to say each day. I've always loved fashion and decor, but never did I think that I would love photography, food styling and writing as much as I do now. Never did I think that I would "meet" so many wonderful bloggers whose comments and thoughts make me smile and make me feel validated. I'm so thankful for you!

In celebration of this special day (that was really a few weeks ago), I have a fab giveaway for ya! Many of you commented on these lovely West Elm throws that I posted last week. I bought one last week and they are just as soft as they look in the photo! So I thought I would give one away to a lucky reader! Here is what you need to do to win:

{Mandatory... leave a separate comment for each!}

Follow Savor Home via Google Friend Connect or Bloglovin'

Visit West Elm and tell me your favorite color

{Additional Ways to Enter... leave a separate comment for each!}

Follow Savor Home on Twitter

Blog about this giveaway

Tweet about this giveaway

The winner will be announced on Wednesday, November 16th!!

Good luck!

xo,

Spaghetti With Clams

2011-11-08T05:30:00.007-06:00

I entered Giada de Laurentiis's Facebook photo contest last night! She is my favorite chef and I am so excited! The rules of the contest are simple: She chose 50 of her recipes and the challenge is to make and photograph one of them. The photos that receive the most votes are reviewed by her and she picks the winners!

I picked Giada's Spaghetti With Clams. Why? It's one of my favorite Italian dishes, but I have never cooked it myself. I also thought the rustic look of the clams would photograph nicely. I knew I picked the right recipe when I shot this photo...

I took several photos of the finished dish, but I could only submit one photo. I feel like I took 100 photos! I was nervous! But I was able to narrow it down to these...

Up until last night, I had no idea which one I was going to choose. But I ultimately decided on this one...

It was just crisper and cleaner than the other photos. Giada is very "clean," so this photo just reminded me of something she might like.

Now about the recipe. SO GOOD! I was trying to hurry and take the photos before it got cold. I was a little late, but it was still good! It's so fresh and only took about 20 minutes to make. That includes prep time. I think it would make the perfect weeknight meal.

If you are on Facebook, I would love for you to help a girl out! Voting starts on Monday, November 14th, but you can leave comments on the Facebook page now if you like! Click here to view my entry!

Linked up with Tasty Tuesdays!

Weekend in Eight

2011-11-07T05:30:00.000-06:00

Hi guys! I hope you had a great weekend. Last Monday, I did a post called "Weekend in Ten." I really enjoyed putting that post together, so I might make it a weekly thing. Today I am going to go tell ya eight things. Why eight? I dunno. Just want to keep things fresh I guess. Here goes...

1. Remember these riding boots that I purchased? Well, I had to return those babies. My normal size was too big and the next size down was too small. Oh well. Any recommendations for other riding boots are welcome. I'm looking for brown ones...

2. Yesterday, I photographed my entry for Giada's photo contest. This is one of the photos I took. I have so much fun styling food! I will do a full post on the recipe and the details of the contest tomorrow.

3. Max and I took our holiday card photos this weekend. This was our setup. A few scratches and a torn pair of H&M leggings later, I just had to let him go. He showed out, which is not like him! But my photographer still got some great photos. I've got my eye on a few cards by Minted...

4. I tried Pinkberry's new flavor, Peppermint, this weekend. Incredibly delicious. It tastes like Christmas.

5. I honestly don't watch that much football, but my eyes were glued to the TV Saturday night! I graduated from the University of Alabama, so Roll Tide for life!

6. I will be one year older this week. For my birthday, I would like for the concept of calories to be nonexistent so that I could eat an entire cake like this one. Thanks.

7. I got my extra hour of sleep yesterday. I feel much better now.

8. I sort of missed my one year blogiversary. It was right after busy season ended and I totally forgot about it. That's ok. I've got a fab giveaway planned on Wednesday to celebrate this wonderful thing called blogging.

Happy Monday!

xo,

Images 1/5

Amazing Grace!

2011-11-04T05:40:00.008-05:00

Hi! I am so excited that today is F-R-I-D-A-Y!! My weekend is off to a great start. Last night I went to the Design* Sponge book signing at West Elm and met the amazing Grace Bonney!

Grace is such a doll on her blog and in person...

Bad, bad iPhone photo, but I didn't want to take my Canon and look anymore starstruck than I already was...

While she was signing my book, she and I were talking about the crazy traffic here at Atlanta. She was tweeting about it before she arrived. It was raining last night, so she experienced it at its worst. She gracefully thanked me for coming. I'm so excited that I met her!

I intended to leave after the signing.

But everything in the store was 15% off, sooooo I had to walk around...

I've been a little obsessed with globe pendants lately. They are so simple, but exude so much style.

If you are an avid reader of my blog, can you tell that I love mirrors? I do- especially circle mirrors. I thought this one was beautiful...

I didn't buy the lighting or the mirror, but I did buy this $5 bowl for my entry table. I would say that is all I bought...

But I would be lying to you.

I bought a few more things that I will share with you later. And...

I actually bought something for one of you...

Stop by next week for all the details!

Happy weekend!

xo,

On Sale At West Elm

2011-11-02T05:32:00.008-05:00

I will be at West Elm later this week for a Design*Sponge book signing event. I can't wait to meet Grace! I have already thought about my trip to West Elm and have told myself, "window shopping only." However, they have an incredible sale going on, so that thought might be out the window...

Favorite Throw (perfect for adding a splash of color) $23.99

Woven Seagrass Pendant (I see a trio of them in a long hallway or one over a kitchen sink) $64.99

Flow Dinnerware (I love the color and they would be perfect for photographing food) $19 - $25

Navy Rope Pillow Cover (navy is really getting my attention these days) $14.99

Just a few of my favorites. Wish me and my credit card luck...