Graciously Southern

The Newlywed Game

2011-02-11T14:30:00.000-05:00

In celebration of Valentine's day, I want to do something fun, creative, and memorable with my chubby hubby to be. That's Jay's pet name and yes he likes it ;) And no, we are not quite newlyweds yet... but after 3 1/2 years of dating and enduring countless ups and downs I think our love, commitment, and dedication to eachother puts us right up there with the best of em'.

So here's the plan, we'll be playing a game much like Monopoly but instead of rolling the dice we'll be asking a series of questions. Rounds one and two will be fun, silly, sweet and oh so easy. Then round three will be the toughies, both ones we may not yet know about eachother and ones that will definitely be thought provoking. As we answer the questions right, we each get to move our play piece (conversation heart) along the board. And if we get one wrong, Buzz, straight to the "dog house" like jail in Monopoly.

In the end, it's not hotels that we'll acquire but a walk down memory lane. Instead of park place, we'll pass by the restaurant we met at for our first date and pay another visit to Savannah, our first mini vacation together. Ofcourse, the ultimate goal is quality time and some romance. So at the end... the winner gets the lovely partner by their side. Aww so sweet and corny, I know :)

Here's some of my favorites that we'll ask...

If you could only use one word to describe "us", what would it be?
What is something you think I have plenty of, but won't stop buying?
When it comes to upper body, my spouse is... puffed, buffed, stuffed, doesn't have enough!?
What color is my toothbrush?
What item of clothing do I wear that you can't stand?
What excuse do I use the most?

We are sure to get lots of laughs from the silly answers we'll exchange... and I'm sure a few trips to the dog house too!! Wishing you all the love in the world this Valentine's Day...

Let's Play A Love Game....

2010-09-17T00:28:00.005-04:00

To get everyone in the wedding spirit Saturday as we shower the bride, I've planned some fun games. I was on the hunt for something easy but not cheesy since I'll be traveling out of town to host the fete. First, we will play "guess how many." I filled an apothecary jar (what can you not do with these amazing containers!?) with cinnamon candies from Dollar Tree. 72 per bag to be exact. The wedding color for the Fall nuptuals is burgundy and I think this is a classy looking yet inexpensive option. Like Price is Right, whover comes closest to the correct number without going over wins. Next, the ladies will be scratchin their noggins unscrambling these wedding terms. I used a 40% coupon at Hobby Lobby for this precious paper making it $1.60 a pack and it just so happens to coordinate perfectly with the napkins found at Tuesday Morning. I love when details come together. For the winners, little organza bags from AC Moore for .50 cents ea with pumpkin spice jar candles inside, also .50 cents ea. A steal!!! I know we'll make some memories laughing together with the bride to be.

Baked Bliss

2010-09-09T23:18:00.000-04:00

Couture Confections

Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a sixpense in her shoe! Here comes the bride!!! In honor of my favorite cousin to be, Jennifer Stepp, I am hosting an all desserts bridal shower next weekend in Greenville, SC. The invitations have long been sent, decorations purchased, and all the fun ingredients to create these wedding dress cookies were burning a hole in my apron.

My sweet and oh so talented mom and I made these delighful cookies inspired by ones seen online. At home Martha, AKA my Mom now that she's retired, envisioned sugar spice and everything nice as we "whipped up" a batch of love for the blushing bride.

How could she of forgotten the fiasco we had last fall with the thanksgiving cookies!? Moms are the best and yes "we" will be decorating those again this year. I am always less than thrilled when my attempts at being Martha, Paula, and Sandra Lee don't come to fruition.

As I whined that it wasn't nearly as easy or as fun as I'd anticipated, we simply must not have bought the correct supplies, and that it would have been a much better idea to purchase them off line where we were had been so inspired , my mom hummed away so happy to be baking up some goodness in the same kitchen she has for over thirty years.

Some things just must come natural... for me, this means lots of shopping, BUYING the food, and being a gracious hostess with perfectly placed tableware, florals, and great company. For mom, it requires carefully planned menus of tried and true recipes made from scratch. It brings her so much joy and pride to prepare a delicious meal for her family or guests and she doesn't break a sweat.

Served on my grandmother's blue and white China, these precious cookies were made with all the love and good intentions we wish for the new bride to be. And that is something you can't ship to your front door.

Hostesses with the Mostest

2010-04-14T02:09:00.001-04:00

Pretty pink wreath to welcome guests made for the fantastically frugal price of $3! All from $ tree, wire ribbon, wreath, and scrapbook stickers transform this front door.

Pink polka dot lined basket full of goodies. Ribbons, bows, onseises, and a travel J&J set. My friend Katherine who welcomed Hailey last May said this travel set came in very handy with a newborn. She's been a fabulous refrence for what is and isn't used from a diaper cake or gift basket.

I hope Kedron and Kallie Grace enjoy the gifts and look back on the special day with memories of being showered with love.

Pickles and Ice Cream

2010-04-14T01:33:00.002-04:00

Shower Menu

Pink Lemonade Punch

Chicken Salad

Meatballs

Fruit Tray

Veggies

Wedding Cookies

Cheese Dip and Beer Bread

Pink & White Yougurt Raisins

Charlotte, Scarlet, and Tanya did a fantastic job on the menu. Throwing a shower with Kedon's friends was a nice change from hosting the party on my own. The food was delicious and presented beautifully. This pink lemonade punch is my go to beverage for all spring/ summer parties. It's easy and delicious! Two cans of frozen pink lemonade, tequal parts water and liter of sprite, lemons and strawberries. This beautiful punch bowl was given to me by Aunt Rena. It means the world to me that she's handed this special piece down to me. I found these adorable plates and napkins at Cedar Terrace Card & Party, but they are also available at Party City. Again, I wanted something modern and different from the usual. Scattered amongst the platters were pink carriages found at $ store, and confetti diaper pins, rocky horses, and rattles. Bon Appetit!

A Girl Loves Flowers at Any Age

2010-04-14T01:03:00.001-04:00

To celebrate the arrival of sweet Kallie Grace, a palette of warm pinks, greens, and white daisies warmed up the house on the cold day of the shower. It may have been freezing outside, but inside looked like spring. I called on my faithful friend Carmen of Branham's florist for ideas on feminine, pretty flowers that would be blooming and available for a January shower. Carmen has always delivered the most beautiful, fresh florals at a great price. For my ever increasing need of hospitality budget which I never stick to, he is the one area of my planning that I can always depend on. I've decided I'm quite the florist afer this venture. He's encouraged me to jump right in there like cooking, and keep turning the vase and "adding to it" until it's "right". I was inspired by gorgeous images online for pink flowers with limes. For an amateur, I think even Martha would be proud ;)

Green spider mums, minature baby pink carnations, white daisies, and hot pink Gerbers brighten up the whole room. I don't know why carnations get such a bad rap? I think they added a nice little to touch to the arrangement. Guests loved the surprise bouquet placed in the bathroom. Why not!? I LOVE these simple square glass vases from the $ store! I've gotten dozens of them that I've used over and over again for parties and showers with candles too. Filled with flowers this even makes a great gift! Each vase holds one lime cut into slices. I've heard this works well with lemons and hydrangeas too, but that the more delicate ones don't last long with the acidity. The pink roses were a gift from Branham's in honor of Kedron and baby K! Flanking both sides of the centerpiece on the fireplace, Kedon's aunt made these "diaper presents." A stack of diapers tied with pink bows! How simple are both of these touches... but what an impact!

Tickled Pink She's Having a Girl...

2010-04-14T00:25:00.001-04:00

When one of my sweetest friends in the world Kedron found out she was expecting, I couldn't be happier and more excited for her. This meant lots of shopping for cutesy pink bows, blankets, and bibs... and all things baby shower! My favorite! She and her husband Brandon are one of the cutest, most fun loving couples Jay and I know. It was such a blessing to watch a miracle happen before our very eyes as Kedron's long awaited dreams were coming true. We can't think of a more deserving and wonderful family and know that K~ bug and hubby will make the best parents ever.

As planning began for Kedron's shower, this no fuss mama to be gave the hostesses all the freedom we needed to make her special day one she would always remember. If only I could learn to be as laid back and easy to work with and Kedron! I'll have to remember this when my big day arrives. The theme for the shower was ofcourse, pink, with greens, browns, and polka dots! This coordinates with her precious nursery. The ladies did a wonderful job on the delicious food and diaper cake and I made these adorable invites. I was inspired by this sweet little poem:

Tiny Fingers, Tiny Toes, Little Itty Bitty Clothes,

Dresses, Ribbon, Hair to Curl,

We're Tickled Pink

She's Having a Girl!

I called on my shower and party planning pal Lisa to help me create the invites. She and I have gotten to spend lots of quality time together creating and crafting as the eternal bridesmaids and hostesses... ha! I wanted something new and different from the carriages and duckies available in stores. I envisioned a sweet little clothesline and voila! My graphic designer guru came up with this! We purchased an invite kit from Hobby Lobby and she worked her magic! Lisa found this image online and altered it to fit our color scheme. My favorite part is the tiny strawberry on the onesie! We were all so pleased with the way they turned out and got lots of compliments. Ofcourse, the invites wouldn't be complete without my signature ribbon on top! It matched the colors perfectly and I used it throughout the shower to coordinate our theme.

Shower Me with Diapers

2010-04-08T00:20:00.000-04:00

Recently my crafty friend Lisa recruited me to assist her in making a diaper cake and wreath for an upcoming baby shower she was hosting. Since I've nominated myself as an expert at these and all things shower and party related she didn't have to ask me twice.

With it still being so cold outside we kept nice and warm creating this precious pink and green theme diaper cake and wreath to adorn the door at the shower and welcome family and friends. LMM insisted we find "all white" diapers and after running in and out of every store in creation, we realized we could roll them outside in. Voila! Problem solved. Although our creative minds didn't always agree, this was her masterpiece and myself and my opinions were just along for the ride. Once I quit being a bossy butt and let the master work, I realized my way isn't the only way and that Lisa had quite a few new additions and ideas herself. How cute are those little pink clothes pins she just had to have and I didn't want!? These were found at Dollar General.

And my absolute favorite ribbon for the wreath is available at Walmart. I'm the proud owner of several spools of the brown damask version just sitting in my craft drawer waiting for the right project. We were both so pleased with how both shower decorations turned out.

Birthday Prezzie for my Bestie

2010-04-07T23:19:00.000-04:00

What do you get for the girl who has everything and a handbag to match!? .... a fabulous pink and green picnic basket, monogrammed of course! I picked this adorable basket up at Mid State Monogramming, Inc in West Columbia. Go visit Teresa, she's amazing with a fun shop full of to die for personalized goodies! My dear friend Jennifer Cannon surprised me with my own beautiful basket for Christmas so when it came time to celebrate Blair's big day I knew exactly what to get.

All this....

fit into this....

Enough said! Perfect for social butterflies like ourselves, I thought Blair would enjoy her new basket as much as I'm enjoying mine. She could take this cookouts, the beach, and weekend get aways. I filled BKG's basket with lovely picnic essentials. Super cute napkins "calories don't count when you eat standing up" , "redneck stem wear" Styrofoam monogram "G" cups, a chick fil a gift card for yummy lemonade for days she goes on the boat, and green coordinating plates.

Happy Birthday Blair, I love you!!! Wishing you all the best in the world, you deserve it!!!

* visit BKG's blog Reasonably Swanky *

Winter Wonderland

2010-04-07T22:26:00.000-04:00

We are the real life Clark Grizwald and girlfriend.... Jason and I were so sad to see the Christmas holidays go. Our first holiday together Jay insisted on a stinkin blue tree. "That's NOT Christmas!" I used to complain. Well, our third holiday together I finally got my way with the traditional red and green.

And this January I was thrilled to put all those darned blue ornaments to use. Along with these wintery accessories and snowflakes I found on sale at $ tree, yes $ tree has sales too, and this adorable tray for $3 at Goodwill, my frosty scenes all around the house are complete.

I loved cozying up on the couch in my new leapord snuggie from Jay and enjoying the view of snowflakes on our fireplace while wishing for some real ones outside.

Since this post is so belated.... our snow wish finally came true in MARCH! :)

Belated Christmas Wishes

2010-02-09T23:04:00.000-05:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Merry Belated Christmas ya'll!! Did ya miss me? It's so good to be back and blogging again... life has just been a whirlwind and I've neglected some of the things I enjoy most. As my Mom has always said, say no to the important and yes to the vital. Wonderful words to live by. So yippee... I have finally figured out how to make a collage. I am not tech savvy and happen to have the slowest computer on earth!

Back to the festivities... we had such a memorable Christmas holiday. For the first time in years, my sweet mama wasn't busy wrapping up her Fall curriculum now that she's a SAHM and enjoyed herself like the rest of us. Usually she's shopping and baking on Christmas Eve and burning the candle at both ends. This year it was leisurely strolling Devine St for fabulous finds and watching It's A Wonderful Life til' we all memorized the words. I've said before... the older I get I'm so touched by the littlest things we've done as a family that I took for granted before. I've wrapped presents with Mom while watching this movie for years. It's a somewhat tradition I used to complain about. After all the hustle and bustle I was ready for some peace and quiet. This year things were different... and for the first time, I was the one rallying up the troops, scotch tape, ribbons, and bows ready to settle in for our traditional show. I was moved to tears at the end of the movie and can't explain how blessed I felt at that moment us all being there together happy and healthy.

Jason, Aunt Rena, and I attended the Candlelight Christmas Eve service at Asbury United Methodist Church. This was a tradition bestie Courtney and I always did long before we were even roomates. While she was out of town cruising in the Bahamas with her hubby and family, I kept the tradition alive with my family. We visited with Jay's aunt and uncle who are members too and the most delightful people you've ever met. They embody the Christmas spirt all year long. Jake has even been the church Santa before and Betty Mrs. Clause. It is an amazing, magical, and powerful moment when all is dark and the only light is being lit by the candles in the sanctuary. I always feel that this quiet time before our savior's birthday prepares my heart for the day to come and reminds me of "real reason for the season." I will admit if it's even possible for me, I was a bit bah humbug this year. We have had so many changes in the past few months with my new job, Jay's embarking into real estate, and Mom leaving her teaching career... it was hard to get into the spirit. After leaving this service, it's impossible to be anything but in awe and grateful for each and every blessing bestowed upon us.

My brother and "sista" came for a visit with my "niece pups" and will be making me a real aunt soon!!! Johnny and Alison are having a BOY and his name will be John Lewis Marshall, V!! That made Christmas even brighter and I had an extra special present for my little newphew under the tree. A beautiful snuggly lamb with an ivory ribbon that reads " Jesus loves me" as it plays the lullaby. I thought it was most fitting for a first Christmas present.

As you can see, my baking has improved!! I made these adorable stocking, Christmas tree, and star cookies for coworkers and friends. I've found that red hots of all things hold their shine much better than m &m's and some people actually liked the crunch surprise. Mom made these adorable Red Velvet cupcakes with cherry twizzler bows. YUM! Sentimental as ever, I discovered these baking cups that were given to my Mom by a close neighbor and friend in the 80's!!! Still in the box. So ofcourse it was photo op time and we put them to good use.

I went a little crazy with the decorating this year. What used to fit into three "rubbermaid" containers now fits into six. Oops... bargain shopping again! I had to post those adorable cocktail napkins found at $ Tree that say "it's that time of year when it's good to be fat and jolly" along with the most adorable ornament cheese spreaders. That just made me crack up thinking of Chubb Hubb and I.

My adorable Jay and Christin are pictured at Dianne's. My boss Charlie very generously treats the RM group to cocktails and dinner each year. Lucky CJB and me... the newbies had to give a speech! Although I'm never at a loss for words, I was nervous as could be in front of the big group. Luckily I spoke from the heart and that's always a sure bet.

Now, let's not forget the steals, deals, and my favorite... PRESENTS!!!! Throughout the house I had Christmas Cheer. We're talking everywhere. Bathroom, kitchen, even the side porch. I love love love this holiday. Pictured above are several of my favorite ornaments. The "jingle bell wreath" was a steal at .50 cents as were the glittery ornaments and star from my favorite... the $ store! I put the plate arrangement on a pedestal and sprinkled holiday potporri and ball ornamnets around it. Placed a square vase in the middle with a candle and voila', a gorgeous centerpiece! The plate itself was $3.99 at TJ's and all the rest, $ Tree! That's what I should of titled this post!

The red wire basket was $1 at His House and I filled it with a red Poinsettia that I got for $2.50 at Walmart. It needed a little somethign. I found these gold ornaments that were from Madison Hall, still had the tags, for $1 each at Goodwill. What a steal! I think this arrangement is sooo pretty couldn't wait to share and can't wait to do it again next year. The Christmas tree card holder was .50 cents at a consignment shop and it looked adorable in the kitchen. So much so that after Christmas, Jay wanted to leave it up! I had to explain to him that a Man room with sports memorabilia and all else masculine is for just that... because men do not know how to decorate! I found, and will show soon, a Biltmore Estate wrought iron wall basket for $5 at Belk! Originally $45 I was so proud of my bargain hunting and for convincing CH that Christmas decor is for Christmastime.

We'd looked for three Christmases now and of all places found the perfect yet inexpensive topper to adorn our tree. Now, the tree itself was NOT a steal. After four tree farms and an hour drive to Harmon Tree Farm in Lexington, yes I called them out, we were treeless. We are National Lampoons style on the quest for the perfect tree. The only person who loves this holiday as much as me is Jason! So back to Harmons, as we pulled into the lot and hopped out of our cars at 5:55, yes rude I know but I am a workin girl you know, switch the light went from open to closed. Ya'll it was not 6pm! By the time we finally got back to our side of town I was willing to pay an exorbitant price just to be done. Next year it's to Bauknight's we go like CH wanted in the first place.

As a Christmas prezzie to moi, I bought these gorgeous down stuffed and (prob faux) silk couch pillows. Ahh I am in love with them!! They make me sooo happy!! Found all these for about $25 each at TJ Maxx. I thought this was such a great deal and love the way they dress up the living room. Jay was spoiled rotten by myself and our fabulous Aunt Rena (Jay's 2nd mama who raised him, the woman I owe everything to and admire only second to my own mom). I got the best and most practical gift from my sweet Mom and Daddy, new tires for my SUV. FABULOUS! He also gives me "oil changes" each year. Picture our living room on Christmas morn, 4 huge tires and oil and fileters nicely arranged on the floor while all our other presents are wrapped. Ya'll I'd die if I had to pay for these I take it for granted. Having a Dad who is a retired mechanic definately has it's advantages! This takes the place of our "Santa Presents" that were always unwrapped while the rest were under the tree. I cannot wait for next year when my little nephew munchkin is wide eyed as he marvels and all the twinkling lights and warmth of the holiday.

Sorry this post is so looong... I've got so much to say it's been forever. It's good to be back and I will soon be posting about what's been keeping me so busy! Parties, picnics, baby showers, diaper cakes, football and birthdays!!

PS. I am on the hunt for a classic manger scene. Let me know if you have a pretty one so I can find one too!

Lots to Learn... And Thankful for a Wonderful Mother to Teach Me

2009-12-02T20:03:00.001-05:00

This is a much belated Thanksgiving post. My fabulously talented Mom saved the day last week when I was baking cookies to take to a friends house for dinner. More hideous pictures of my pathetic cookies to follow. I picked up Wilton stencils and thought, how hard can this be!? Well, let me tell you my cookies, though edible, were disastrous. See the thing below that resembles a turkey!? Exactly... nuf' said. Back to Martha... I mean Mom. Like a pro she shipped my bad attitued into shape, reminded me this is the season to be thankful, and showed me how to bake and ice properly from scratch. Ha! Mix Mix Mix and Voila! She is freakin awesome and made sugar cookies and home made icing that far surpassed my store bought in taste and presentation. Luckily, the little bug I babysit didn't mind taking the not so perfect batch of cookies off my hands. The only thing that upset him was me not letting him devour anymore after two (since he's only 18 mos) as I pulled the platter from his chubby little hands. He is PRESH I'm telling you.

Anyway, now that my Mom is a "stay at homer" we've enjoyed catching up and spending much needed quality time together. I'm so proud of the way these gorgeous cookies turned out. The turkeys have "chocolate" icing with Nutella and is the only part not "home made." Ya'll they were so yummy and my hostess even called a few days later to tell my Mom how much she was still enjoying them. More and more I realize the older I get how extremely fortunate I am to have such a fantastic family, support sytem, and loving wondeful parents in both my Mom and Dad. Everytime I think about how many sacrifices they've made to ensure my brother Johnny's and my every happiness, I get tears in my eys. I am in awe of my Mom and am so thankful she took the time to to teach me this not - so - simple -for me task of baking cookies. I am hopeful that I will have this opportunity with my own children one day too. As we say goodbye to thanksgiving and begin this magical Christmas season, I am so blessed and forever grateful.

Snips and Snails and Puppy Dog Tails...

2009-11-14T00:15:00.000-05:00

This past weekend, I had the privilege to attend a baby shower in Greenville honoring Jason's sweet cousin Kayla and daddy to be Shawn. As soon as I met Kayla I loved her to pieces and when I found out they were expecting, I offered to make a Baby Cake as I call them. Jay and I combed Columbia for the perfect bears, trinkets, booties, and burp clothes to adorn my masterpiece. Boyfriend of the year did this on his Saturday in the rain braving TJ's and Marshall's too cause ya'll know they have the BEST baby stuff!! We found the most precious polka dot blue and green diapers at Target. I wouldn't say they stack up to Huggies, but worked great for decorational purposes! Jay picked out the baby blue grossgrain ribbon with tiny white stitching and each piece is tied with a sage green polka dot one. We made a great team and in Michael's I got giddy saying "think how much fun this will be for our wedding!" He wasn't quite as enthused and is hanging up his ribbon picking shoes for now. I think it turned out pretty darn cute and hope the baby boy enjoys his presents!

As always, we had a fabulous time with the Stepp clan. Saturday evening we enjoyed cooking out by the bon fire that Jennifer Stepp "the first" ( we will share the name) and her wonderful boyfriend David hosted. Everyone thought it was hysterical that I had planned a "bon fire outfit" for the event. OFCOURSE!! I reveled in the fact the cousins think I'm some high class city slicker, what a compliment and so far from true. Jay loves to say I'm "Sex in the City" fashion ... only the Target version!! I tell him this means I can do more with less :) Sunday, we spent some quality time with Granny sharing memories of days past when Chubby Hubby and the soon to be parents were still "wee ones" themselves. So quickly, Jay's family has opened their hearts to me and I am so grateful to say have become my family too. One thing is for sure, Little Wyatt Lee is going to be a very welcomed and loved little boy.

Happy Harvest

2009-10-12T21:05:00.000-04:00

Yipee!!! Fall is finally here!! I'm loving any excuse to decorate, enjoy the festivites, and the cooler weather! We kicked off the season with our 2nd annual trip to the adorable town of Newberry to visit Oktoberfest with our favorite newlyweds, Courtney and Michael. We enjoyed delicious lunch at the Flying Pie, think Mellow Mushroom meets Flying Saucer, and in true holiday spirt sipped some of the sweetest fruity beers and brews known to man! Of course, I had to indulge in rich rasberry gelato to "wash down" the hops. While C &M knocked out some early Christmas shopping scoring one of a kind presents sure to please everyone on their list, I padded my own stocking... as usual ;) Much to my dismay on Friday night, by the way, I pulled up to the house I see Jason gardening. Bless his heart he surprised me with huge, gorgeous purple mums with yellow centers. The daisy petal kind, I'm very scientific sounding, right!? So instead of being the oh so grateful and lucky girlfriend... I was fuming. Hateful Heifer, I know! Like a 5 year old, I whined "but I wanted to do it myself!" It ended up being a lovely compromise seeing the front porch come together, my traditional yellow and orange mums mixed so well with his big purple ones. < I am so proud of my grapevine harvest centerpiece! For only $10, I put this fabulous arrangement together. I got the basket months ago for $3 at Goodwill. I stuffed it with moss and colorful gords from the $ store for about $4 total. It was complete with a $2 mum and some precious indian corn.

I spread more Halloween cheer in the kitchen placing candy corn, black licorice drops, and butterscotch candies in apothecary jars atop a shelf in the kitchen. I found the shelf itself at Hobby Lobby for $14 I think?? Been meaning to post a pic of it. Have great plans for it for Christmas too. Propped up against it, I added my $4 Happy Harvest sign that was a snag on clearance this Summer.

This past weekend my sweet Mama and I spent some much needed quality time together. She's been thru a lot of changes recently after leaving her 20 year position as an early childhood teacher/ preschool director. This was a hard decision for her and still tugs at her heartstrings daily, but I know she made the right decision for her and I couldn't be more proud. Please keep her in your prayers in this time of adjustment. So to further kick off the fall festivites with some good ol girl time, what else but my favorite past time... SHOPPING! We loaded up with garlands of leaves, the gorgeous pumpkin wire ribbon, mums, gords, corn, and pumpkins seen above. As we flew thru three lanes of traffic like wild women laughing when I spotted an adorable roadside pumpkin patch, I knew we were making memories that would last forever. If you know me, you know how sentimental I am. For years, I've watched my Mom create the most 'martha like"creations whether it be a cake, fall wreath, holiday spread, etc long before Semi -homade was a fad. Some of my the best memories happened in that same kitchen where we crafted away this weekend. I'd been beggin my Mom to make me a "leaf wreath" like hers with baby pincones. Ya'll she is fierce with a hot glue gun! I am now the proud owner of my very own Robin Marshall original wreath... sure to welcome trick or treaters and thanksgiving visitors alike. It warms my heart every time I look at it and makes this year even more special.

Found these sweet but less than perfect glasses at $ Tree. I fell in love with the FAMILY and FRIENDS ... memories are made and home is where the heart is script and thought despite the green line being not so straight, who cared with the lovely words and perfect fall colors. They've been great for casual dinners w/ the close friends who don't mind things not being just so ;)

Back at Oktoberfest, I found this one of a kind "spider web tree" at the cutest gift shop ever in Newberry, and it is functional too. It holds 3 little hors'dorves plates and is the perfect excuse for me to break out my pumpkin cheese spreader too. I said cute and somewhat functional...not practical. HA! We also got some palmetto tree dish towels with "santa hats" embroidered on the top and some adorable cookie cutters so that I can try my hand at decorating. We also got my bestie the cutest surprises for her upcoming wedding, but I won't spill the beans about that yet! I made Jay pose on the hay bails to get that perfect Harvest shot, all the while he suggested we "photo shop" new outfits on ourselves from last year's pic. Ahh MEN! I told him this is training for when we have little "trick or treaters" of our own one day ;) Happy Fall ya'll!

New J-O-B, Fabulous Coffee Cup, and Me

2009-08-21T14:41:00.000-04:00

Wonderful and exciting news!! I've accepted a new position for an independent insurance company downtown. This is unchartered territory compared to my safe haven with State Farm, as I will represent multiple companies as opposed to just one. I am nervous, eager, thrilled, and a bundle of other emotions as I anticipate this new journey in my career and say goodbye to the wonderful friends I've made thus far. It has been such a blessing to have the support of not only my family and friends, but the best mentor a girl could ask for... my current boss as well. This week has been a whirlwind. I've been a worker bee getting organized and prepared to leave and the office treated me to a fabulous "farewell" lunch at Longhorns. Yum yum! I wanted to take a moment to share about a few special things I'll be bringing with me. First, my "born to shop, forced to work" magnet that Mom gave me all those years ago. It's this adorable hand painted and embellished wooden sign that has given coworkers and clients alike a chuckle over the years. It will I'm sure have a special place in my new office as it has at my current one. Next, I insist on toting aroud a 2 year old calendar that Courtney gave me when we were roomies. It's a "girlfriend's words of wisdom" small desk calendar and although it's OUTDATED it remains sacred to me. It represents so much.... where we were then, the reason she gave it to me , I could go on and on. I'm a huge "quote junkie" and I still flip thru it for inspiration and laughs. Lastly, let me brag about my love for 222 Fith's Pashmina china collection. As usual, I was shopping for a b'day gift at Marshall's and left with a prezzie for MOI! It's a coffee cup in Paisley print with teal and lime green and just spoke to my heart! I had to have it, a stealat $3.99 ... all my favorite things in one :) If you know me, I'm not even a huge coffee drinker but it makes me smile every time I use it and will definately be joining me on my new adventure.

Triple Chocolate Overload

2009-08-21T14:30:00.001-04:00

To kick off our new bible study, I decided to cook up some gooey goodness. Check out what was in my shopping cart... yum yum! This was equally as fun to make as it was good to taste. I gathered triple chocolate chunk brownie mix, Reese's cups, Hershey bars, cool whip, caramel sauce, and these adorable pink plaid muffin cups. A regular batch yields 20 brownies, and this gave us 12 jumbo "brownie cakes" as I call them. I did 4 Caramel, 4 Pb, 4 Chocolate Chunk. Think "molten lave cakes" and you'll know how they looked straight from the oven. I prepared the mix as usual, filling half the muffin cup and then adding my special treat inside topping off the paper liner w/ the rest of the batter. I'm pleased with the way they turned out. See how cute those pink liners are!? It was just a creative alternative to boring squares and as you can see we really enjoyed them!

On a side note, I befriended a lady in the check out line at the grocery store who shared an "eclair cake" recipe with me. I'll be sure to post this one as soon as I have an occasion to make it for. Sounds delish! Only in the South do you compare recipes with strangers and leave with a new friend and a couple extra pounds! Now that's hospitality, ya'll!

That's Amore

2009-08-13T08:50:00.000-04:00

It doesn't take any more time to prepare and eat a simple spaghetti dinner over candlelight with Sinatra playing softly in the background than it does to scarf it down on TV trays while watching primetime... but the impact is tremendous. With little cost or effort, Jay and I shared a delicous and much needed romantic meal last night. We/ He actually talked for hours with no tv, no cell phones, no interruptions, just us spending some quality time together. Who knew he could be such a chatty cathy!? I know we don't usually give men enought credit, but they really do notice all the little details and truely appreciate the extra attention given to an otherwise daily task. To my surprise, our guys need and want the same sentimental things too, that we women love and expect. With all the craziness in our schedules and lives, it's easy to let the excitment fade so I encourage you to sit down a minute, slow down a while, and spend some quality time with the one who matters most. I can tell you we'll definately be having more of these intimate dinners for years to come as we grow old together, because nothing looks better than my honey's sweet face illuminated in the darkness.

Anime Birthday

2009-07-29T15:11:00.000-04:00

Brittany visited us in June from Greenville to celbrate the big 1-9. Two weeks with Jay and his sister, who are like two peas/ BIG KIDS in a pod, was definately an experience!! I was so excited to have Jay's lil sis here, and had an itenterary all planned out with numerous activities for them to do from touring the USC campus to walking the Congaree Swamp Trail while I WORK. Ha. As usual, I had my sugar spice Jennifer moments where everyone loves me, but I had my BRAT ones too. Who doesn't, right?? We went to the beach that first weekend Brit was here. For the b'day surprise, Jay kept his sister distracted at the pool while I conveniently ran off to "get stuff we forgot." My time frame was 1 hour, and ya'll know I am NOT PUNCTUAL in the least. Well, 3 stores later and Jay's truck bursting at the seams with black and silver balloons flopping all over the place with everything we "needed" for a little b'day din, ya know cups/ plates, napkins, presents, pizza, the whole shebang. I began my quest from tourist crowded Wal-mart to Bi-lo to find a darn red and white cake. Unless Brit wanted a barbie or Sesame Street cake, I was empty handed. The one I envisioned would be oh so perfect, and just make her b'day that much more special. Would you know the LAST square, red and white cake sans gaudy red roses at Bi-lo was SNATCHED right from under me by the size O co-ed who had the baker script 'happy b'day to the girl who stole my cake." Ok not really but still. I want to rumble ... but that wouldn't have been very bellish of me no would it? I reluctantly grabbed the last red rose cake and decided no one but me worries a/b these trivial details. With a/b 15 mins left in my timeline I forked over a the crazy amount of money for the so so cake, candles, etc. ( as our condo has none of these supplies that our home does) and went about my way. Notice I didn't label this as a frugal post, ha ha, or say the baker piped anything on MY cake. No no, that's for me to do in uh, 15 mins, in Japanese no less!! I rush home to realize I am locked out of the complex. I was so tempted to break thru the stupid security gate... instead I did the unmentionable and flagged down the kind woman exiting the other side. Later we lol when dad asked "we have strict rules a/b security. How did you get in ? You didn't mention my name, did you?" "why no, dad, no" Meanwhile, with a frozen now thawing hujungous Wally World pizza ( so good ya'll) and melting cake that took two stores to grab... I huff to the pool "Jason I was locked out! Where is the entrance key!? I need more time! Don't come home right now!" His sis must of thought I'd lost my mind. Thank goodness she was still clueless to the surprise. Minutes later the condo was transformed from tropical oasis to a party with black, red and silver accents. Much to my dismay even though I LOVE her, Jay's sis is not the girly type. She's into what's called "Japanese anime" or Japanese animation and manga comic books. Ya'll I am UP on this!! Props!! So what d'ya know I watched some movies w/ her (made by Disney no less) and liked it! I proclaimed "this is like Beauty and the Beast just a Japanese princess instead!" Just as I finished icing the cake in my much practiced "happy birthday" Japanese lettering and lit the candles, knock knock at the door. Perfect timing. In wet bathing suits my "chubby hubby to be" and "sista to be" celebrated her 19th birthday in Anime Style. The rest of the weekend was so relaxed and laid back. We shopped at the customary beachwear stores for junk, I mean souvenirs, spent the day on the beach, and ate dinner at the water front River City Cafe. Looking like the paparazzi we snapped away at the gorgeous sunset. Overall, the two weeks wasn't always easy. I admit I have a lot of growing up to do before I have kids, "share Jason" , and learn everything can't be done in my time, my way. ( yes i'm older than two) Brittany taught me how to be less of a girly girl, and I convinced her "pearlescent" nail polish was a compromise in lieu of black. We shopped and bonded, shared beauty tips and our love of black eyeliner, and slowly I'm learing we can relate and be polar opposites at the same time. I told my '"sista," "well atleast now we're like family and if you tell your mom, she's great sometimes and a total "b" at others, atleast it's the truth!" we laughed and laughed...

Gifts of Gratitude

2009-07-29T11:51:00.000-04:00

This is a belated post.... last Fall we had the privilege to vist Gabby's mom, Mary, at her beautiful home in Tryon, NC for the weekend. We decided to tag along with our dear frined for an impromptu girls weekend in honor of Mary's birthday! She's a gorgeous ( inside and out), genuine, amazingly talented woman, raised three wonderful daughters and owns Tryon store downtown. This is a quaint little mountain town situated only about an hour and a half from Columbia rich in arts, antiques, wine, culture, all the things boho that you'd expect to find in this gem of a getway spot. Mary is a "no fuss" gal, she throws on a cute pair of jeans and polo collar shirt and looks stunning with her long salt and pepper hair. I call her my beautiful bohemian friend!! She has aged so gracefully and I couldn't wait to put something together to say happy birthdy and thank her for her hospitality. I ran over to the Fresh Market to pick up some essentials. Keep in mind this girl is always on a budget, so let's just say I was "inspired" by the festive but pricey gift baskets FM arranged, but had to rely on own creativity. I think this hostess gift is a perfect combination of practicality and little indulgences.

Price Breakdown:
Pumpkin Basket $1
Celophane Shrink Wrap $1
Fall Leaves Wire Ribbon $1
Natural basket filling $1
all from $ store!

Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Coffee $10
Orange Marmelade $3
Morning Glory Muffin Mix $3
all from Fresh Market

total: $2o
much better than the $50 and $60 labels for something I thoroughly enjoyed putting together and doing myself.

How Sweet It Is....

2009-07-29T11:20:00.000-04:00

Jason and I recently celebrated our 2 year anniversary, yay!! It's been an amazing journey and since circumstances won't allow us to move forward and get married as we'd like right away, we decied to make the most of it with a trip to the beach! We did a whole lot of nothing, and it was absolutely wonderful! We didn't see anyone, tell anyone we were there, and relaxed. Having that much needed quality time together being quiet, silly, romantic, whatever struck our fancy, makes me realize and appreciate the reason why I fell in love w/ him in the first place. We shopped while it rained, taking tons of goofy pictures, and enjoyed glass bottle cokes at the general store in Calabash. Then the shopaholic in me convinced Jay to drive clear to the other end to Broadway where more photo ops and window shopping entertained us on the dreary day. We enjoyed a lazy day at the pool, fun day at the beach, and shook our heads at all the "teenagers out past their bedtime." Gosh we're getting OLD! Lemme just tell you after all that sun bathing, I was "lobsteresque" on my shoulders for weeks and had boo slab me up w/ some aloe! No help, the dreadful peel ha ha. For our big "anniversary dinner" we opted to stay in. Jay cooked up some delicous spaghetti and said "we'll be like Lady and the Tramp." so silly. The next night over a cheap cheesburger feast at an ol' fashioned diner on the boardwalk, we teased about our simple taste and delcared "we're soulmates" and that's the way we'll always be...

Best Thing Since Sliced Bread... Cherry Turnovers

2009-07-28T14:45:00.000-04:00

Ok since an invitation to be the next Weight Watchers spokeswoman is no where in my future... let me tell you a/b my very fattening but fabulous find!!!! Ahh, Arby's Cherry Turnovers are the most delish scrumptious treat sure to please your taste buds. We're talking Slap your mama good!!!! Shantel and I had a sweet tooth after lunch today so off i went for a little "smoke break" even though ya'll know I don't smoke. ha ha ha. Don't you agree they should really pay me for this advertisement with free turnovers :)

Keeping the Faith... Jason's New Opportunity

2009-07-28T11:56:00.000-04:00

God is good. After months of ups and downs, false hope, numerous interviews and things just plain not working in our favor, Jason has a new job opportunity. Ya know the saying "when God closes a door, he opens a window" this rings so true! When my sweet love suddenly lost his job last fall, we were shocked. He'd just returned from a successful "career changing" business trip in Colorado, happy and motivated as ever, and was up for a huge promotion. Then in happened. He has remained so positive and strong thru the entire process. Selfishly, I have to admit I was not always so optimistic and he's been my rock at times. You know me, the worry wort. Regardless of our rough moments, it's proven to be a huge learning experience for us both. It's taught us what's important in life, how strong our love and relationship is, and that no matter what WE ARE GOING TO GET THRU IT. Not to mention it's only strengthened my wonderful friendship w/ my sweet bestie Blair!!!! Without her some of those hard times wouldn't have been as easy to handle. She was always a bright spot of sunshine, with words of wisdom and encouragement for us both! Jason and I are so lucky to have such fantastic friends... which brings me to the exciting wonderful part of this story. Through a government program Jay decided to persue his dream job in real estate. Another blow, a week before the class we learned the funding had been pulled. Stay with me now... my other bestie Katherine is buying her first home. KUDOS!!! Ya know, a few posts back I bragged a/b my fantastic WONDER WOMAN friend who is an excellent mom, wife, and full time student who just welcomed her precious angel Hailey?? Well she thoughtfully mentioned "her good friend who is passionate about a career in real estate who would not disappoint, is eager, outgoing, and a man of integrity" to her realator who happens to be her family friend. Fast forward two weeks, BAM! Thanks to Katherine's recommendation, Jason was interviewed and is becoming a real estate agent!! And he's already been hired on with ERA Wilder. YAY!! It's amazing how God had this planned the whole time and how seamlessly it all came together. Reminds me of one of my favorite verses: "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see" Hebrews 11:1

Weekend Wishes

2009-06-12T08:31:00.000-04:00

Yay for the WEEKEND!!! Hope it's a great for everyone! We've got a busy one planned. Today Jay's sister finally arrives for her 2 week visit. Then it's dog sitting and hitting yard sales tomm w/ my bestie C and babysitting that night. Can't wait to post all the treasures we're bound to find, yard sales are addicting and I plan to show her what it's all about! Then lunch w/ Ree on Sunday. Whooh! Whatever it is you're getting into this weekend, hope you take some down time for yourself to enjoy the Summer and spend some quality time making memories with family...

Applebee's Free Lunch

2009-06-08T13:34:00.000-04:00

Last week Christin and I had lunch at Applebee's to celebrate her birthday. The local radio station was there promoting "win a free lunch with Applebee's" as well as the normal radio prizes. Well, birthday luck. CJB scored an Akon cd and our table "won" two coupons for free burgers. So neither of us wanted to "be good" and stay in for lunch today. Applebee's here we come! Can I just say they were delish! Def not on weight watchers but it was worth it! So recap:
2 burgers and fries w/ coupon: FREE
Shared Chocolate cookie /icecream Heavenly Dessert and combined Tip: $11
Beating the Monday blues w/ a bestie lunch buddy: "PRICELESS"

Most Recent Finds

2009-06-04T00:27:00.000-04:00

A new favorite past time of mine (and sometimes Jay's) is to wake up early on Saturday mornings and go "yardselling" as we like to call it. Below some goodies we lucked out with. A .50 cent picture frame, $16 adorable side table from an Antique store closeout (ready for some ivory paint that I snagged in the oops section at Lowe's for .54 cents!!) cute pineapple tablecloth $1 and brass Pineapple, and some $1 pictures. Usually it's me w/ truckloads, but Jason is always a sport ;)

Ladie's Night Out

2009-06-04T00:15:00.000-04:00

Ladie's Night Out is a monthly get together my friend Jennifer hosts and I help with from time to time. In just a few short months our small group has grown to an average of 30-40! Kudos to Jenn for organizing this fun way for us all to keep in touch, it's been a huge success. Tuesday's theme was "flip flops" and I borrowed this adorable and super easy idea from Melissa at "A Little Loveliness" thanks girl! These were a HUGE HIT and even the manager of the rest was all ears planning to make some for his daughter's b'day party! Enjoy!

Retail Therapy

2009-06-04T00:09:00.000-04:00

Today was just one of those days... so I bought two cute prezies for myself! Atleast if I was doing some retail therapy I bargain shopped! Found this adorable wallet/ clutch at Tuesday Morning for $10 and after waiting forever for one I liked, this fabulous and original giraffe print tote which I plan to use as a purse for all my "junk" was $16 at Marshall's. AKA my fav place!!

Simple Things...

2009-06-04T00:00:00.000-04:00

My dear friend Jennifer, yes another Jennifer, surprised our office the other day with a delicious bag of peaches. She is always coming up with fun and thoughtful treats. Jason was excited too as they're his favorite. I went to grab one when I was running out the door and the a tiny little leaf caught my eye. It was too pretty and perfect not to share. Beauty in the simple things all around us...

Give Joyfully

2009-06-03T10:58:00.000-04:00

Some food for thought... I'm famous for overextending myself and always saying yes, yes, yes to whatever task is asked of me. Whether it's too many social engagements, baby sitting, planning events, etc. Well, during our bible study of Malichi we've learned the motivation and attitude behind the sacrifice is just as much or more important that the act itself. It's about not "going thru the motions" and reminds us to be deliberate and concious of what we're giving, whether it be our time, money, love, etc. And it's gotten me thinking. Am I doing all these "favors" with a joyful heart? And am I giving my "best and first" to those I love the most? Or am i running around like a chicken w/ my head cut off, giving my second best and then my "leftovers" to God? It's helped me to realize, it's ok to say no. If your attitude and talents can't be shared freely and with a joyful spirit, isn't it better to delegate that task to someone who truly can? Or can it wait? Remember what's most important. And find joy in that...

Thought for the Day

2009-05-27T08:32:00.000-04:00

"If we live only for tomorrow, we will be left with a lot of empty yesterdays"
"Find Joy in the Journey" ~ Thomas S Monson

Hailey Margaret has arrived!!

2009-05-26T15:57:00.001-04:00

Announcing the arrival of

Hailey Margaret Steward

May 26, 2009

7:55 AM

Weight: 7 lbs 6 oz

Length: 20 1/2 inches

Proudest Parents Ever

Katherine &Andrew

& Big Sister Hadden

I'm thrilled to welcome my best friend's new baby girl Hailey! After her much anticipated arrival and a less than perfect pregnancy for Kat, it was a huge sigh of relief to receive the wonderful news. She is already an amazing mother, wife, and friend and I know this new bundle of joy will add even more fun to her busy life. I can only hope to be like her some day! She makes me so proud and in awe! Please keep this wonderful family in your prayers and they receive this little blessing from above.

Something encouraging I camed accross and shared with Katherine during a rough time in her journey:

"Giving birth is the only miracle God needs your help with"

2009-05-25T15:44:00.000-04:00

Welcome to my blog! I am completely new to the blogging world and hope to share helpful hints and ideas along the way. I love party planning, decorating, shopping on a budget, and making all things fabulous!