holiday reflections

You might recall from this post the blocks of historic homes and antebellum mansions that surround Lake Defuniak in Defuniak Springs. They're enough to look at on their own, but during the Christmas season, the entire Lake District is lit up with a plethora of twinkling lights.  It's a mix of old-fashioned displays, old school kitsch (lots of color bulbs!) and down-home spirit.

I thought all the brightness, holiday music and activity would be entertaining for Emery, so I took a detour tonight after work to show her the sights. She slept through the whole thing. Everyone drives through at about 5 miles per hour, so I was safely able to snap these pictures on my iPhone. If you haven't been and you're nearby, it's worth a little trip around the lake. 

reflections from lights across the lake

currently obsessing over...

One:
The awesomely preppy trays, plates notepads and such by the fabulous Dabney Lee. I will take one of each of these.

lucite tray

notepad

ice bucket

I didn't realize I was so preppy at heart until browsing some of the goodies on the site. Perhaps my inner nerd should have been an indication. I even got excited about seeing all the different swatches and color options. A plethora of preppy prints!

Now I need to cleverly place a hint where Hunter will see it or leave the webpage open next time he gets on the computer. Christmas will be here before we know it! (wink, wink)

Two:
Currently devouring the latest issue of VIE Magazine, which also happens to be the fashion issue. A more perfect combination could not be created. This winter issue is fabulous!! It is my absolute dream to attend a fashion show during New York's Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week and I'm wondering how I can pay the lovely ladies and gents at VIE to take me along next time. I would die. For now, I can dream and let my heart skip a beat at these chic, glossy pages.

Three:
This mouth-watering, amazingly delicious, full of goodness tomato mozzarella and avocado salad from ValSoCal. Seriously, what's not to love? You should know by  now that I am always obsessed with avocados and a caprese salad is anyone's friend, right? The best part is this looks easy enough for even me to handle.

image: ValSoCal

Val's Recipe:

       Mozzarella, Tomato and Avocado Salad

       1 container cherry tomatoes, cut in half
       1 carton fresh mozzarella cheese pearls, drained
       1 avocado, peeled and diced
       1/3 cup basil, julienned
       2 tablespoons fresh parsley
       1/4 cup lemon juice
       1/4 cup olive oil
       salt and pepper
       baguette-optional

        1) In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, mozzarella, basil and parsley, Set aside.
        2) In a small bowl, whisk the lemon juice, oil, salt and pepper. Pour over tomato
        mixture. Toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.
        3) Just before serving the salad, stir in the chopped avocados. Serve salad with
        slotted spoon and toasty bread.
        4) Goes perfect with a glass of Pinot Grigio ; )


Can't wait to whip this up again and again!

casual chic: boots + leggings

I’ve only been in Chicago for a few short days and already I’ve noticed a few things.

1. It gets really cold here. Shocker, I know!

2. The wind blows a lot. Hello, Windy CIty!

3. Black leggings and boots are the most spotted fashion combo (usually topped with a sleek jacket or layers of warm knits).

It’s not only a practical look, but it can also be chic. I LOVE this style. This is great for running errands, weekend shopping, traveling and more. Comfortable leggings, stylish cognac boots and practically any long top works from a button-up to a cardigan to a jacket to a sweater or a long tee. Just add a scarf and sunnies and you're ready to go! Here are a few ideas on how to put it together.

 Images from here, here, here, here, here, here, and here.

keep it classy

know first who you are; and then adorn yourself accordingly   -epictetus

I love discovering inspiring and appropriate quotes. It seems there are words to fit any occasion. It's always important to remember the value of being a lady and keeping it classy. While the fashion scene changes on a daily basis, sophistication and looking smart NEVER go out of style. Once you have a sense of who you are, you can better define your fashion sense and stay true to yourself. 

If you're creative and edgy, show it. If you're a laid-back free spirit, go with the flow. If you're classic and conservative, that's cool, too. I think I'm some combination of these, perhaps a laid-back conservative? This book has been out for awhile, but I'm only now discovering it. (Sorry I'm late to the party, friends). The description says "How to be a Hepburn in a Hilton World" will show you how to impress people with your articulate manner, dress tastefully without sacrificing your personal style, polish your professional image to move up the workplace ladder and, of course, have a fun night out without the risk of embarrassing photos on Facebook. Think I'll have to stop by the bookstore and pick it up soon!

southern snow

Living The Pioneer Woman-esque life in the country has its perks. One major plus: pretty pastoral views from dawn til dusk of rolling green hills, tree tops, winding roads, brilliant sunshine and open fields of grass and cotton. I drive past this particular patch of Southern snow every day, but today the early morning sun was hitting the fluffy blooms in such a beautiful way that I found myself pulling the car over, plopping Emery on the grass and snapping away on my iPhone. Just another day in the country…