a day in the life of jewels

MOVING in the Virtual WORLD!

2009-11-03T14:25:00.001-06:00

I have moved!! Please follow me! Change your links, update your google reader, and come along!! I outgrew the storage and capabilities of my blogger site. Oh, what bittersweet feelings!! So long...blogger!

MY NEW "VIRTUAL" HOME

@ www.jewels-blog.com

put your game-face ON!

2009-10-31T19:41:00.002-05:00

WELCOME to game day at Jordan-Hare Stadium:

with 87,000 (give or take a few) fans in the stands cheering hard,

the band playing,

the team ready,

the coaches on the sidelines,

the action began!

and luckily, in the end, we were all smiles because we had a VICTORY over Ole Miss!!

Today was a wonderful Saturday! The weather was slightly overcast, but on the positive side...the cloudy sky makes for great photographs!! I lugged my camera with me the whole game, but it was worth it. Afterall, you never know what your might see...

Looks like these guys are in dyer need for some CUPS!! Whacha think?? I am sure that one of those cups contains some little H1N1 germs!

Back home after the game, and we made the yummy chocolate chip cookie pie with ice cream (picked up from Chik-fil-a) that I shared a little while back. It is super easy, and even more SUPER YUMMY!! No but really CLICK HERE because when you see the pictures again of the pie, you too will launch out of the front of your computer screen, and run to the kitchen!

Let's Celebrate!

2009-10-30T16:44:00.002-05:00

Today was a special day, we celebrated my Grandma's 79th birthday (shhh...don't tell that I told). It was such a a treat to get to spend the afternoon with her and her closest friends. The funniest thing is they were ALL Alpha Gams at Auburn together back in the day. They are all the sweetest ladies, full of life with LOTS of funny stories to share. We lit the candles, ate a "girlie" chicken salad lunch, sang Happy Birthday, and celebrated! I could of sat around all afternoon amongst their company. There is just nothing like your girlfriends, even when you are almost in your eighties!

I am off to bake a yummy dessert for tailgate tomorrow! Fun weekend ahead with lots to want to share soon!! Happy Friday!

magical shoes

2009-10-29T21:50:00.002-05:00

This is adorable! Do you all remember as kids how you loved walking on the tops your dad's BIG feet? Finnish designers (Aamu Song and Johan Olin) of "Company" designed dance shoes for "the father and the daughter".

Precious.

order product: info@com-pa-ny.com

-Price: 95 euros

-only avaliable in red

"completely smitten" unveiled

2009-10-26T23:50:00.003-05:00

Here it goes...get comfy, this is a long one!

This past weekend, I took a late night flight from Birmingham to LaGuardia. Got there, and first things first...dinner. I was hungry, but that is not a problem in NYC because restaurants are abundant. We went to Warren 77 , and I had the grilled cheese soldiers with tomato soup . Maybe I chose this because grilled cheeses remind me of summer lunches by the pool at the country club. Dinner=bedtime so that I could be rejuvenated for a BIG day on Friday!

The sun rises, and I got up and had breakfast with a friend at:

Breakfast was followed by a meeting at the Architectural League NY. Their mission is the advance the art of architecture. They also have a tangent organization/project Urban Omnibus that strives to create conversation about design and NYC. I met with one of the directors of the project to talk about their mission, work, and website design. They do lots of interesting interdisciplinary work, and offer lots of opportunities for young designers. Following the meeting, I was walking back to Stan's apartment in Tribeca and passed by this storefront,

and the bright green sign really caught my eye, plus the fact that it said "yoga". FUN! I went in. Next thing I know, I got a free first time class at Yogaworks. So I signed up, got a mat, and for the next hour I did a yoga/pilates class in the most uniquely designed space I have ever seen. It was full of sleek detail, and awesome finishes!

My mom and sister were up in the city too. They were going to a Broadway show, so I ventured over to Jersey to see Stan's new office building. The office just moved from Lower Manhattan to Jersey, but it is just a PATH ride away. It was well worth the visit to see 30 Hudson , a LEED Platinum building designed by Argentine architect Cesar Pelli.

The view across the Hudson of Lower Manhattan is beautiful, the lights at just after sunset are stunning. Sorry I do not have a picture to share, but they are on my other camera which my sister has borrowed. Not only was the view from the ground breathtaking, but the view from the interior was amazing as well. As far as the design of the building, green practices were definitely followed. It as funny, right when we walked in, and I saw the LEED plaque on the wall I told Stan, "wow that is pretty cool, and at least all the hours you spend at work will now not be detrimental to your well-being." He laughed, not understanding that in fact unsustainable buildings can be harmful to our health. Not this one, the building materials promote employee health. Sustainably-harvested wood (sycamore) flanks the walls of the interior, all paints and carpet contain low levels of VOCs, and most all of the building materials are of high-recycled content. It was really fun to go up and explore the building {after clearing some pretty heavy security}

After my design fix, a bunch of Auburn people, that live in the city, met up at Freeman's for dinner. The best way to describe this East Village restaurant is an old southern hunting lodge with an urban twist. Can you picture that, I do not have a picture so close your eyes and use your imagination. The food was delicious, and I hear they have a super weekend brunch too. Anybody been?

The day was lots of fun, I must also mention that I was throughly entertained by live advertisements at Bloomingdales,

baskets of produce, flowers, and pumpkins at Dean and Deluca ,

and how easy things, {relatively speaking}like disposing of dead landscaping, gets done in a BIG city

With that Friday comes to a close. Sun goes down, sun comes back up. It's Saturday.

Saturday morning Mom, Andrea, and I go to Balthazar's for breakfast. The coffee was super good, and the food was yummy as well. The restaurant is renowned for it's rather exceptional design. The building is a converted leather wholesaler warehouse space. The space is, for lack of a better adjective, amazing! Then the best part yet, we met up with...

a sweet friend of mine, Ashley! She hung out with us all morning. It was a blast. Her and I had good catch up "talk" time. Her presence always makes, with out a doubt, for a fun time! As you can tell we were intrigued by the Nespresso bar. The "N" in the espresso is Nestle discrete way of letting the consumer know that they are in fact the parent company.

After all of us girls parted our ways, I met up with Stan, and we headed on the train to Princeton to see our friends Ben and Karen. I was completely bursting out of my skin with excitement because YES IT IS FALL AND THE LEAVES ARE CHANGING! Let me show you why this so excites me:

Yeap, completely smitten by the fiery color of fall on Princeton’s campus. Leaving me in total awe of God’s amazing creation, and the fact that He does not overlook the beauty in one single detail.

The campus is in a neo-gothic collegiate style of architecture, full of character at every level.

Except for maybe the architecture school building:

Not one detail overlooked in terms of materiality, from the gutters

to the authentic slate roofs

All I can say is wow!

Not only did we tour through the main campus, but Ben drove us around town as well. We saw the seminary part of campus which he attends, the location of where Washington crossed the Delaware, the home that Eistein spent his last years, and even some local favorites. Local favorites like, the “WaWa” Grocery {which Ben informed us had a great chip selection} and the campus eating clubs {equivalent to the south’s sorority/fraternity scene}.

Before I get to lost in the all the fun things we did, I must share with you one precious memory that flooded my head when we drove across the canal. All I could think about was my precious Mom, and the childhood stories she shared with me of her early years growing up in Bucks County, PA and "The Canal”, yes you read it right Mom, “The Canal”. New Jersey on one side, Pennsylvania on the other. Mom has the most precious stories of how exciting it was, come wintertime when the canal would freeze over. Not only did her backyard become a huge skating rink, but her New Jersey friends were no longer a 45 minute drive away, but a hop, skip, and 50 yard skate away. This was so special to me to see in real life the canal that brought my sweet Mom so much excitement as a child. The canal is not only beautiful; it is flanked by old tug paths that have become running/walking/biking trails. What a truly amazing way to exercise amidst God’s beauty!

Back on track now, Princeton by night took us four to dinner at Mezzaluna, right off Nassau Street, the main drag through downtown Princeton. The food was delicious. I had a fusili pasta in a basil-tomato sauce, finished with fresh mozzarella and eggplant. To follow that up, we enjoyed organic ice-cream from The Bent Spoon . It was so good, words do not exactly do it justice, and I am not even an ice cream type of girl! After that we managed to catch a little bit of the AU vs. LSU game before heading to Ben and Karen's home right near downtown.

Sunday morning, we woke up to the smell of yummy french-pressed coffee. And we even persuaded Karen to falunt her talent for us, and play a little Bach on her harp. Yea play the harp, easy right? She is super talented, even has professional, graduate training, and one is one of the top harpist. I do not know if you have ever watched anyone (up close and personal) play the harp before, but it is the most graceful thing to watch. The way she was moving her arms/hands was like watching a ballerina dance. {beautiful metaphor!} And all that music makes you hungry right? So off to the LONG line at PJ's Pancake House, a famous Sunday breakfast spot in the heart of it all.

Following that STICKY breakfast, a walk through downtown. The weather forecast, crisp and cool! The only thing missing was the smell of pumpkin spice cake {but I took care of that tonight, I BAKED pumpkin spice cake!}. Time flew way to quickly, and we zipped out of town to catch our 1:45 train back to the city. Unfortunately we were a little slowed down by a huge collegiate rowing event.

Back in the city, Mom and Andrea left earlier than me for a flight to Atlanta, so Stan and I spent the afternoon walking around Tribeca. We even stumbled upon an open house for a 3 bedroom apartment. Yes, Yes, Yes we went right on in. It was sleek and BEAUTIFUL! European granite, Miele appliances, wood floors, herringbone pattern tile embedded among white marble bathroom floors, German designed double hinged/triple pane windows, double height ceilings, desginer fixtures, and a sensational natural light! A perfect ending to a NYC visit because I was then quickly swift away in the rather poorly designed interior of an ordinary yellow taxi cab to LaGuardia, and as for tonight...I'm off to bed.

the colors of fall

2009-10-26T12:15:00.000-05:00

I have lots of things to share with you, but right now I am a little behind at "life", and still completely smitten by the beauty of FALL that made me smile all weekend!

headed north!

2009-10-22T08:13:00.001-05:00

I am doing something this weekend (which starts today for me). It involves me and something about this:

and last but not least, a little bag stuffed full of way to much for a few days, but reflects my indecisve nature when it comes to packing.

oria kiely bag @ Flight 001 via kaboodle

simplicity

2009-10-20T22:12:00.001-05:00

There is so much beauty in simplicity, and this wedding invitation embodies that for sure. I wish I was on the guest list to this one! Bummer!

via Vince Printers

déjà vu

2009-10-18T20:49:00.002-05:00

A weekend of pretty flowers, cocktail dresses, fun dates, yummy food, dancing, and lots of pictures made for a fun-filled weekend visit to Auburn last week.

Sparkly clutches, cell phones, and cameras in hand

These girls got all dolled up

met their dates, put on their corsages

and headed out for a "lantern lit" dinner on the town before dancing the night away at their High School junior homecoming!!

Dwellings

2009-10-14T08:01:00.002-05:00

Book Cover, originally uploaded by youngjf4.

I am sad to admit, but I rarely have time to sit down and enjoy the books and magazines that I have at home. Ideally I would like to spend hours of my day with my nose stuck in the pags of lots and lots of inspiring images, articles, and text. However, these days are few and far between. Yes, to my dismay, my schedule is usually overtaken my task that somehow seem to take priority over "fun" and "enjoyable" tasks. Just this weekend, while talking to my Mom, she said to me as she was flipping through a design magazine from April 2009, "I think this is the first time I have even looked at this magazine. It came in the mail, yet, quickly found a nice place to collect dust beneath the coffee table." Yeap, it is true! Last night, I decided to flip through a book I'd bought on sale at Anthropologie a while back. By the looks of it, I think the pages had never been flipped. The book: Dwellings: Living with Great Style, a collaborative book between well-known designers James Huniford and Stephen Sills. The express every aspect of style, show lots of pictures, and full of stunning design ideas!! Their techiniques literally touch on all the details!

"Capturing their unmatched understanding of atmosphere,
color, and a room's sensuality, this innovatively
designed book will serve as both inspiration
and a reference tool for creating a beautiful home."

Just saying, but this book is a great addition to your library collection!! Think Christmas is soon, or maybe you can score the $30 on sale for $7.95 like me!

*image via dwellingshome.com

It's Official

2009-10-13T21:17:00.000-05:00

...I just registered for my last semester of Architecture EVER!! The 5 year professional program flew by, and I am kind of shocked that it is almost over!! One word, bittersweet.

sure to make you smile!

2009-10-10T16:26:00.000-05:00

Wanna join me for a date here:

Bocado, "a westside morsel" in Atlanta, just opened. Bocado in Spanish means "mouthful". It looks so tasty! Yes, I throughly explored the menu, and I already know what I would order. Do you do that when you are going to a new place? I always love restaurants that have online menus. As odd as it might sound I love to "pre-experience" the restaurant virtually. Maybe this is just a reflection of my indecisive nature, especially when it comes to deciding what to order.

reduce REUSE recycle

2009-10-09T11:43:00.000-05:00

We recycle hard core at our studio in Birmingham. It absolutely blows my mind how much trash is created by the 16 of us that work in the studio space. It is mind boggling. When we recycle, it ends up being a lot more recycling bags to dispose of than actually bags of trash. So, yes, we are eliminating all of that from going into our landfills. Wow, we really are such a wasteful society. Seeing it pile up from more than one person, really puts it into perspective. Everytime I put a plastic water bottle or can in the trash I really do feel guilty now. My challenge to all of you is start recycling at home. Do not go out and buy plastic tubs or big new bins at Wal-Mart to organize your recycling. Be creative about it, let your designer side take hold of you, and think about the middle "R" in RRR: REUSE.

Here are some "reuse" ideas for a creative solution to organizing all that mess. Let this be a little inspiration to make recycling fun. Add a creative + functional accessory to your home!

1. Red Barn Mercantile, via 1st dibs : industrial stacking

2. Blue Ocean Traders : vintage industrial bins

3. Elements of Style blog : bins

4. Hudson Goods : vintage wire baskets

It's Official

2009-10-09T11:07:00.002-05:00

...yeap,

it is "officially" fall around here (just waiting for it to get a little cooler)

the leaves are changing

2009-10-04T14:01:00.000-05:00

It is fall here in Birmingham, and I love it!! This weekend was especially lots of fun! My friend Elizabeth was here all weekend for a wedding, and I enjoyed every minute of her company when we wasn't at one of the million wedding festivities leading up to the actual ceremony. We enjoyed being outside, and breathing in fresh air! We walked, talked, slept, and all the other wonderful things that come along with a relaxing weekend.

Saturday morning we enjoyed coffee + bagels at Crestline Bagel. We talked about the new Beth Moore study on Esther: It's Tough Being a Woman. The study explores Esther's courage, and parallels that to today's women in the modern world. Here is a sample session if you'd like to explore.

After that we headed to the Birminham Botanical Gardens for the Antiques in the Garden event that has been taking place all weekend. It was lots of FUN. There were dealers there from all over the nation.

There were lots of things I really liked. Lots of flow blue, majolica, two "BEAUTY"FUL 18th c. knife boxes, oriental rugs, and the list goes on and on. But this chair (one of a pair) in particular I thought was so pretty I snapped a picture.

For a more festive taste of what the event was like....

A local Birmingham landscape company created this citrus/fruit arrangement. I talked to one of the men who worked on putting it together, he assured me that it was A LOT (yes, with emphasis) harder to put together than it looked. He did not have to convience me of that, things are always more difficult than they might appear when it comes to any realm of design.

We ended the visit with a walk over the to Japanese Gardens area at the botanical garden. For now all you get is a glimpse! It is definitely worth a trip of your own if you are in the area. Besides, who does not want to be outside when the weather is so darn amazing out!! I knew I didn't have an October birthday for nothing...I LOVE FALL!

P.S. WAR EAGLE!!!!!!! I was at a wedding last night, so I did not get to watch the game, but believe me I knew the moment we won!!

Creative ABC's

2009-10-01T14:47:00.000-05:00

Since my creative mind is over worked right now, I am going to share someone elses creativity with you! This fun idea is from the Boston Concept House worked on by (Nicole Fichera)Hacin + Associates, a Boston based firm. The vintage sinage letters were donated by on of the sponsors from an old factory, and here they are put to good use:

via: Archinect: Schoolblog : Northeastern University

a little sweet treat

2009-09-27T12:19:00.001-05:00

A little scrumptious taste of heaven from the dessert fairy for all the sweet tooth readers:

Chocolate Chip Cookie Pie

1 unbaked 9-inch (4-cup volume) deep-dish pie shell*
2 large eggs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) butter, softened
1 cup (6 ounces) semi-sweet chocolate morsels
1 cup chopped pecans
Serve with ice cream (optional)

Preheat oven 325 degrees F.
Beat eggs in large mixer bowl on high until foamy.
Beat in flour, granulated sugar and brown sugar. Beat in butter.
Stir in morsels and nuts and spoon into pie shell.
Bake for 55-60 minutes. Cool on wire rack. Serve warm.

Recipe from Nestle Classic Recipes, 2003
* If using frozen pie shell, use deep dish style and thaw completely. Bake on baking sheet and increase baking time slightly.

via Bakerella

two for the team

2009-09-27T11:31:00.003-05:00

Yesterday my sister and I went to visit my two little twin cousins. When we got to their house, this is what we found:

The cutest little Auburn Tiger Cheerleader,

with her twin brother, the strongest little Auburn Tiger football player I have ever seen.

...with the pacifier strung on securely, and AU toddler squeaker shoes (yet another crazy invention) strapped on tight Lily cheered Auburn to another vicotry last night!

lists

2009-09-25T21:44:00.000-05:00

I am a list girl. Sometimes when I am making list I like to write down a few things that I have actually already done. It just feels really good to go ahead and get to check something off. I think you all know what I mean. The next list I make needs to include buying this notepad from Anthropologie. This notepad with tear away sheets even includes a whole entire column on the right hand side reserved for a big ole' check!

the joys of paper!

2009-09-25T16:03:00.001-05:00

How super fun is this invite set by Anna Bond, an illustrator and paper goods designer out of Florida. I fond her via design*sponge. I am intrigued by the character of this set in particular. It is full of fun little details, I especially love the map!

and if that does not excite you then this surely will...

Adorable, huh? If someone sent you that, you COULDN'T resist feeling honored to be a bridesmaid in their wedding! I will make a note to self with how cute this is. DIY yourself guide here.

prisma marker headaches

2009-09-25T07:24:00.001-05:00

I have had lots and lots of mapping and diagramming taking over my life the past week. It is Friday...time to surface again or enjoy a little R&R.

Do notice the cup of prisma markers on the back corner of my desk? I am just wondering, do these kill brain cells? I think so! I feel like I have been breathing them in for a week. Maybe that is why I have had a permanent headache. I think we have been through about 10 green leaf markers coloring in the vast clumps of trees in the other 10 diagrams for Eclectic, AL that are already hanging on the wall. In the end, I think I can say it is worth the "some" lost brain cells because the group of us working on the Eclectic project are coming up with some really interesting ideas for the overall concept master plan for the community. As the end approaches I will post more pictures and design ideas that are formulated!

More to come! :-)

thinking creatively

2009-09-21T08:39:00.000-05:00

People express there creativity in LOTS of ways, license plates are one of the many ways. I am always intrigued by what people come up with in only 7 letters.

Like:

"Try Tofu"

"Sapphire"

"Hello Kitty"

"Giddy Up V8 (I assume they are talking to their engine?)

But this morning on my drive downtown I saw the ultimate creativity on a tag. It read "1GR8IDR". Now I do not know about you all, but it took me a second. "One Great Eye Doctor".

rainy days

2009-09-19T13:05:00.000-05:00

First of all, I wish I was still curled up in the bed on this rainy Saturday. Comfy sheets and a good movie sound really inviting right now. But since that's not an option, I will move on...

For those of you who asked & emailed me about my last post, here we go:

the shams & sheets are from Pine Cone Hill. I ordered them via Layla Grace

the sheets are the Genevieve Ivory & shams are the Louisa Ivory Pillows

There are a lot of sites + stores that carry Pine Cone Hill, but the ladies at Layla Grace are so sweet, and helpful to work with. The company is in California, but they offer free shipping. BIG plus!!

Happy Saturday!

Rug Down + Curtains Up

2009-09-14T22:18:00.000-05:00

It is all coming together. As we all know the "design process" is always slow and evolving. It is never finished, you can never really "check" it off your list, if you know what I mean. That keeps it fun and exciting, right? It is a test of our true patience, at least for me. After 4 weeks of waiting, waiting, waiting, and improvising in crazy ways (like having a box top act as a curtain in my bathroom window) it getting there.

Today, the rug went down...

and thanks to my Mom (who is a total saint), the curtains went UP!

She is totally convinced that "Phil the curtain man" (who hangs curtains for her on her jobs in Auburn is totally worth the arm+leg that he charges). And quote, "she would not do it for a million dollars". Like "Phil the curtain man", other workers of the trade at our house are more commonly referred to like this: first name + task they complete. For example; Bob the painter, Jason the rug man, Kris the sewer, and Joe the tub man. Now back on topic. The fabric is Kravet. It was steal (27 yards) from mom's friend Mrs. Patty. She really made my day because full price for this was NOT really going to fly!

The hardware I really wanted from Anthropologie was on backorder for forever. Curtains lying folder on the floor do not do much good. But I scored an equally satisfying option from the grand ole' Target. Best part being that the price was SUPER cheap! The rings, by Umbra, were even on sale

So, with the rug down, curtains hung, and bed made...It is finally getting there. For now this pillow is calling my name. Five o'clock this morning was a long, long time ago. Night!

Cookies Anyone?

2009-09-12T23:19:00.004-05:00

I heard on TV today--funny statement for me b/c I am NOT a TV watcher--the average person eats 300 cookies every year. I was watching Food Network while simultaneously working out at the gym this morning. The fact that I was watching people cook kind of contradicts the whole "working out thing", but nevertheless this "assertion" left me wondering?

Here goes the conversation I had with myself: Really? Just 300 cookies? I am not sure I believe that. (Well for me maybe I do believe it b/c sweets are not really me thing) So okay...there are 365 days in a year. That number times 10 would equal? Aghh...calculator where are you? Wait...Julie, seriously, I think you can mange this one in your head...it is a 10, just add a zero. Got it! 3,650. That is 3,650 cookies! Yes, 3,650 cookies that my brother eats in a year. Because I am convinced that he indeed eats about 10 cookies every night. (maybe I am exaggerating a little bit) I believe Stacy could provide the evidence: Nestle Break-n-Bake Chocolate Chip packages. So I started thinking, if you are going to eat cookies at least eat them in style. Like try these Chocolate Chip Cookies in a Jar from Sarabeth's Kitchen. They are handmade, come in an awesome reusable food grade plastic jar. Aren't they cute?

*I must add that the price tag for Sarabeth's cookies might help break a 10 cookies per night habit!

The cookies are good, but the restaurant in New York City is outstanding. The food is so yummy. The oatmeal at breakfast, the homemade tomato soup...I am getting hungry just thinking about it! So I guess the alternative for now is off to bed! Night!

What is it like to be an Auburn fan?

2009-09-11T23:15:00.009-05:00

some people tailgate all day, some stay at home

some people cheer obnoxiously, and some just simply clap

some people drive for 6 hours to only stay for a 3 hour game,

some people wear orange and others blue,

some people eat hotdogs and others not (like me...eww not a hotdog fan)

some people watch Aubie and others the game,

some come to win and some do not care...

But at the end of the day we all scream "War Eagle"!

Auburn is such a wonderful place, I miss being at school here. The best part is a good ole' "War Eagle Moment". Check out the video ad here. Really no matter where you go, from a mountain top to a deserted villa in Italy you are bound to see a AU or hear a "War Eagle"because Auburn is one BIG family!

So lets all get creative. Think outside the box. How do you want to express your Auburn pride (if you are an Auburn fan that is?)

Do you paper your bedroom?

1970's orange and blue trees wall covering with white swirls | Design Wallcovering

Dress up all cute?

Marc Jacobs Nessa Sweater & Little Plaid Jersey Top @ Bergdorf Goodman

Add a little fancy-spancy color to your patio?

Jacaranda Home orange & blue pillows

Or REALLY dress the part?

Jimmy Choo orange & blue patent leather sandal

And I am just saying...if you want to get really, really creative, and take this to AN EXTREME, why not just paint your WHOLE ENTIRE house orange & blue**

**you do know that I am totally joking, right?

monogram & mimosa

2009-09-09T08:38:00.006-05:00

This is a long lost post. I think that it fell through the cracks? Or maybe it drowned in the craziness of the past few weeks? Nevertheless, it is worth a revisit to my "archived" iphoto files to dig out the images and share with you all.

We hosted Monogram & Mimosa Shower for a dear friend Bonnie. She is getting married at the end of this month. She scored some really awesome things for her soon to be new chapter of life.

She got everything from:

linen guest hand towels

to a recipe box

Now CHECK...got the Monogram part, but not to forget the Mimosa part of the party...lots of champagne and orange juice graced us with its presence that afternoon.

That paired with a little labor in the kitchen, that slowly transformed from this...

to this...

and finally to this...

All made for a delightful afternoon! I got to see lots of sweet girlfriends, and most excitingly celebrate Bonnie's engagement, and soon to be marriage!

*Thanks to Darby for the petit four recipe! They are a HUGE hit!

Out of the BAG

2009-09-08T14:30:00.000-05:00

This weekend was lots of fun! I enjoyed a weekend at home in Auburn. It was so wonderful to spend time with LOTS of friends and family! The only downside to traveling is packing! I feel like I spend half of my life packing, unpacking, organizing to repack, etc. You get the point, right? I am always living "out of the bag". Maybe I should just set up shop in the back of my car?

Call Me??

2009-09-08T12:34:00.005-05:00

On Friday I recieved my recent etsy purchase in the mail. My anticipation of receiving a package is somewhat (I mean VERY) childlike! I get so excited, sometimes even have an urge to launch a HUG at Mr. UPS delivery man! He just does not know how much he makes my day! This time, tucked away in a cute little black, oval-flap envelope box...personalized contact cards just for me!

They are printed on a white linen paper (linen=my favorite!)

*Laura Beth-I LOVE them! Thank you!

lets get this PARTY started

2009-09-03T22:08:00.007-05:00

I cannot type fast enough...let me share! This is what I love about architecture...you have the opportunity to help someone else. You get a chance to make someone's life better, even the little small things. It is like the ultimate awesome job because what you do really has a direct, immediate IMPACT. The catch being, "how do you make sure it is a positive impact?" This year in Auburn's Urban Studio has been hired by the AL Department of Labor to work on a project for the City of Birmingham. Our team of 14 have been give this project (I am about to explain), and the expectation level is high. Yeap, the pressure is on hence the reason my blog has been placed on the back burner. I am working on time management, and my blog time has been reintroduced. Promise!

We are working to develop a master plan for Collegeville, one of the 99 neighborhoods of Birmingham. This area is literally "trained in" by railroads. There are over 20 railroad crossings entering in the area. Industrial plants sprinkle the perimeters, and the majority of the housing is in the 100 year flood plain according to our study of FEMA maps. To get a feel for what we are working with check out the documentary video YouTube entitled "Trained In". The past week have been been developing maps of the entire neighborhood. We have overlaid USGS maps, FEMA maps, City Maps, Sanborn Maps, Google Earth Maps, and the list goes on. The problem, some of these are old and others inaccurate-meaning they do not leave us with correct data. So what are we to do? Solution: Verify the data ourselves. Maps in hand, we walked the entire neighborhood and made note of ever occupied house, vacant house, demolished house, and other building uses. Let me just say, there are over 2,000 residents there...Ladies and Gentlemen that means LOTS of houses! Whew this was a LONG day!

The other interesting historical aspect of the neighborhood is the Civil Rights history embedded in this neighborhood. Bethel Baptist Church is located here, where Rev. Shuttlesworth pastored. He was extremely instrumental in the non-violent Civil Rights movement, an activist who worked alongside MLK.

As you can see our project is full of exciting and challenging issues. We have our first neighborhood meeting in one week. It will be invigorating to see the residents enthusiasm for the project. We always approach them looking for assets and opportunities. We do not seek to find out what they do not like about their community, but about what they DO like about their community.

Yesterday we met with the head of Capital Projects and the Birmingham Deputy Director of Planning, Engineering, and Permits. We were briefed in more detail about the area, and the excitement level in the room shot out the roof. Good thing we are on the top floor!! This is a fast pace project. We only have until the beginning of October. I look forward to sharing with you our development along the way! One of the most exciting elements of this project will be our opportunity to interact with the community; and share thoughts, beliefs, stories, and casual conversation together.

A Total Make-Over

2009-08-31T08:46:00.003-05:00

I could not help but steal this off of Blueprint Bliss' post of the day! (Thanks Brooke!) But OH MY STARS...Ladies, how wonderful would it be to sit here and put your make-up on every morning? Putting on make-up for me is usually a running out the door action. You know like, a little shadow, one stroke of the mascara wand, grab the gloss and GO, GO, GO!! But if I had that space and natural light I might just be inclined to take a seat, take my time, and work magic!

I'm thinking my bathroom needs a total make-over.

*photo: Country Living via Blueprint Bliss

Making Plans

2009-08-28T23:52:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow I am going here:

I am off to Pepper Place Saturday Market in downtown Birmingham bright and early. I am SO excited, I cannot wait until tomorrow morning!

I love PICTURES!

2009-08-27T13:02:00.002-05:00

Just wanted to share with you a few (yes I emphasize few because there are tons of photographs) from Bryan + Stacy's wedding this past summer. Every picture in the slideshow really shows their talent. The photographers Dan & Ann Almasy out of Atlanta did a wonderful job.

The museum before all the guest arrive...

the brides cake.

the tables.

and as the beautiful evening unfolded the entire atmosphere totally transformed...

Crazy Life needs Crazy Love

2009-08-25T12:19:00.003-05:00

Thinking positively. My curriculum in school doesn't leave much time+energy for a college experience like most people...we have studio from 9am-5:30pm (really more like 8am-10:30pm) while we are technically taking 12hours, we don't get a whole week off for Thanksgiving, and the list goes on. Well, at least I still reap some of the benefits of being a "college student"...think STUDIO. STUDIO. STUDIO. SHOP. Thanks J. Crew for thinking about me.

Although for me sometimes it is just as fun to take part in a little "free shopping". I guess I would say it is like Virtual Window Shopping: you browse a site, add LOTS of things to your shopping cart, and never really buy anything. Then, a week later you get an e-mail reminding you that your shopping cart is filled UP with lots of things, but your are over your shopping mood, and you get away empty handed with a happy credit card! Anyone else every do this?

No really, all joking aside. We all know that we will never find happiness in the "stuff" of the world, but it is always fun joking around. Really when things get stuff, life gets heavy, schedules overwhelm us, and we are expected to complete two weeks worth of work in one week there is only one place we can turn...our Heavenly Father. Without His strength we are weak. I started reading Francis Chan's book, Crazy Love two days ago. {Awesome, click here, click add to cart, and click check out this time!} It has already spoken volumes to me, especially in the midst of a stressful schedule. I want to share with you a few things from Chan's text: "God has allowed hard things in your life so you can show the world that your God is great and that knowing Him brings peace and joy, even when life is hard...in the presence of God, He gives us a deeper peace and joy that transcends {YEAP...transcends!!} it ALL!" In all things remember that our one and only point in life is to point it to Him. No matter what it is that you are doing, let it be glorifying to God. Get creative...think about how you can glorify God when you brush your teeth, go for a run, take out the trash, wash the dog, drink coffee...That is my challenge to all of you! God is who he is {Exodus 3:14), and we DO NOT change that!

Hope you have a HAPPY TUESDAY! xoxo to All!

my love of ROME never ends

2009-08-21T18:53:00.002-05:00

Bittersweet emotions flooded over me today when I saw this picture + article on the Auburn School of Architecture {auSOA} website. This is us with our work on display in Trajan's Market, which is a part of the ruins of Ancient Rome. We joined local professionals and Roman city officials to present our ideas/concepts to them. I am anxious to see what comes to fruition out of our design ideas in our collaboration with the City of Rome. Who knows...guess this will call for another trip across the Atlantic in the future :-)

Yeap, I said FREE sample!

2009-08-19T21:15:00.005-05:00

I am a sucker for spending money on expensive shampoo {but NOT always}. I guess it just depends on my mood. Really over $6 for a bottle of shampoo+conditioner is rather ridiculous, I must admit. I do not know what gets into me. It is hard to turn down Kerastase products (a french line made by L'Oreal) when I get my hair cut at AP Pearsons. Well, I have a new find made by Aveeno. I got it at target, and thought..."What the heck, I will give it a shot". I LOVE IT. You can try a free sample for yourself here if my words have yet to convince you how great of a product it is.

Anybody else tried this product yet? Just curious. If not try it out, and let me know if you like it!

help!

2009-08-16T20:59:00.001-05:00

I like to think that I have a good sense of direction, but maybe that is not the case. Looks like me and this little map will surely become my new best friend.

and the "fun stuff" begins

2009-08-14T14:04:00.004-05:00

Now that I have a place to live, there is a place to design. WooHoo!

It all started with this fabric, which I really love. I've had the sample for a while, but never really had anything to do with it. Currently my room in Bham consists of a mattress, box-spring, bed frame, chest, two windows, four walls, two doors, and my clothes. That is it! For some people okay, right? For a design minded person...not okay! So, back to the fabric. I took the sample by a store where my mom's friend works to see her thoughts. She saw that sample, and responded..."that is 'my' fabric, but in another color wave. I have 18 yards of it at my house, and I am not using it for anything." SCORE!!

That quickly turned into this showing up on my doorstep...

Yeap...an entire bolt of it. And this check was a little left over fabric from something in my sisters room. Works well, don't ya think?

The fabric is Kravet :: Ginny 1635

Called the lady that sews for us...and hopefully we will have four panels ready for hanging really soon. Which calls for hardware...I really love this antique brass rod + jeweler glass finials from Anthropologie. I think the rod size I need might be in backorder. Anybody seen anything similar? Maybe I should just be patient, but I get so anxious about a space coming together.

And about 95% sold on this Chelsea Textiles Canned Headboard in full/queen size for my headboard-less mattress:

And probably simple ivory bed linens. I will probably coordinate the blue fabric in with the bedding a little bit. A few custom pillows?

I think this will look cute with the planters I bought a while back. Slowly but surely it will come together. Pictures when that time comes!

If you don't LAUGH, you'd CRY

2009-08-13T07:42:00.005-05:00

My day actually started on Tuesday morning, when I was going to smoothly move to Birmingham. We caravanned down 280, and pulled up at the house that I was moving into with another sweet, darling girl. The situation ended up not being ideal, and without any further description let me simply say that we were back at square one. Three vehicles packed jam-FULL with ALL my stuff!! To spare you the other bumps that we came across along the day (hence me coming up with the title of this post)...24 hours later we were pulling up to my new home :: TAKE 2. We were essentially homeless for the long time in between time, or so I felt. Mom and I prayed the Lord would guide and direct us both, knowing that trying to take this into our own hands would make the situation worse. Hebrews 4:16 says: “So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive His mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it.”

Samuel Chadwick once wrote:
“The one concern of the devil is to keep Christians from praying. He fears nothing from prayerless studies, prayerless work, and prayerless religion. He laughs at our toil, mocks at our wisdom, but trembles when we pray.” And BELIEVE ME...Satan tried to keep us from connection with God, because he knew that prayer would continually strengthen us.

Come yesterday morning, I sent a text message to a sweet friend, Ewood, who lives in Birmingham. She worked magic. At lunch we met one of her friends who just finished construction on her house in the Mt. Brook area. I actually know her from college, and did Sunday Bible Study with her at Mrs. Melissa's house. Twenty minutes later just Mom and I moved me in. Yeap, the BIG furniture and all because by this time our extra help had been long gone. I had my sister text me the closest Benjamin Moore paint store...in Homewood, we can manage getting there. We spent 5 minutes looking at colors, but went with the fail-proof HC-26 Monroe Bisque. At this point a second attempt at painting the room if we did not like the color was NOT going to be an option. We knew the color, knew how it dried, and knew how many coats it would take. We were sold. We started painting, back a square one about 36 hours after we'd planned to start moving me. Emory came by to move a few things in, and her parents brought us all dinner. We ate pow-wow style, and got quickly back to work. Sometime after 11pm. We cleaned up, loaded our cars, and we drove all the way back to Auburn. Got home at 1:30am. I had dried paint all over me...how? I do not know. What I did know...regardless of the time of the morning, I had to get a quick shower before getting in bed. Come 7:30 this morning, I woke up with soreness in places I did not know that soreness could exist. We are two sore painter/mover ladies, and that just might be my last attempt at being a Renaissance Woman.

I have to say that the Lord, as always, blesses those who persevere. All the Glory to God, everything happens for a reason!! In the end, we laughed at ALL of the crazy bumps (I won't list that...let's just think optimistically) along the way, and made lots and I mans LOTS of memories.

*I would be embarrsesed to show you any pictures, because we looked scary the whole time.

delicious PASTA

2009-08-10T11:40:00.005-05:00

I snagged this out of a magazine at the gym this morning. If anyone at Moores Mill gym is flipping through the August 2009 Southern Living and wonders what happened to page 136...

Well, I am guilty. Caught red-handed. I just couldn't resist. It looked to yummy, and my desire for something delicious and savory beat out any will-power. I was FORCED to tear up the magazine. As the recipe says, "need I say more?" The outcome of my bad behavior...all of my blogger friends get to share in the yumminess of this recipe with me :: Pasta with White Beans and Arugula

*Click HERE to view the recipe, image scanned from SL:August 2009

an ARCHITECT without a license

2009-08-07T16:35:00.004-05:00

"At every Yogurtland location, you get your frozen yogurt the way you wait it. By mixing nuts, fruits, cereals, and candy with your selection Frozen Yogurt, you become the architect of your Frozen Yogurt creation."

Yeap, my friends, those being the words verbatim from Yogurtland's website. And the best part is...I went there today, and became the master creator of my very own BIG white cup of healthy, delicious yogurt. Literally you can have whatever you are able to fit in your cup.

Come tag-a-long:

2009-08-05T06:44:00.002-05:00

I am going to take you on a photographic journey through ONE DELICIOUS EXPERIENCE...

Really no words are needed because your taste buds guide you through this post. Nevertheless, if you want to experience the "magical online cupcake shop" for yourself, visit SaintCupcakes here. You can create your very own cupcake kit: choosing three cupcakes, three icings, and three sprinkle packets. For just $21 this is sure to be a fail proof gift. Who wouldn't want to get something this delicious in the mail.

*images courtesy of saintcupcakes.com

Cute with a PRICE TAG!

2009-08-03T07:12:00.003-05:00

These Mary Jane Platforms, new for fall, are flat out CUTE!!

*images from Fendi::Mary Jane Platforms @ saks.com

1st Birthday Party Double Time

2009-08-01T16:13:00.005-05:00

A Cutie Cupcake Party for Two...

We had the BALLOONS,

the party decor,

lots of yummy food,

memory frames,

cupcakes,

"baby" cakes,

BUT MOST IMPORTANTLY THE REASON FOR CELEBRATION...meet:

Miss Lily

and Mr. Whit!

Yeap, they participated in the "cupcake" part of the party too, indulging in their own individual cakes. Resulting in a striping of the cute outfits and a "hot mess!"

Whit was a trooper, and sported his Happy Birthday hat

but Lily did not cooperate as well, and she quickly lost her Happy Birthday hat.

I cannot believe these two are already one year old...seems like they were just born! Wow, time sure does fly by quickly!!

Any takers?

2009-07-31T07:24:00.001-05:00

A "tiny tots" Kartell Ghost Chair...check out to link here for a free giveaway. Just saying..."it is a pretty AWESOME deal".

what talent...

2009-07-29T21:03:00.003-05:00

Almasy 1st picks!! This is just a sneak preview, but Dan+Anne put up a few wedding pictures on their blog. Click HERE. I think this is just enough to get my blood flowing really rapidly, and make my heart start racing! They were awesome, and I DEFINITELY recommend them to anyone in need of a photographer. They are talented, and were a delight to work with too!

5 OFFICIALLY turns to 6 @ our house!

2009-07-27T08:51:00.013-05:00

All of the excitement + planning started to unfold Friday morning when the bridesmaids and (adorable) flowergirls showed up out our house for a luncheon. These petit fours were a HIT (thanks Darby!). Afterall, what is a "girl's party" without dainty food and Mrs. Pat...

This lady was our saving grace from the begging. And yeap...she persevered until the end. She deserves the wedding planning/runner award of the CENTURY! She is a saint, and not to mention she knows everything a woman is suppose to know about Weddings! So here we go:

30 place settings were set just like this...

and we had cute party guests like these precious angels:

Courtney, Savannah, & Mari Miles

and Kassidy & Kali Rose

Stacy gave us all a bag FULL OF GOODIES. Including the most gorgeous pearl necklaces, bracelets, and earrings from the Philippines. What a unique surprise. That added a "special" touch to our bridesmaid dresses as we planned to "strut" (ha!) down the aisle on Saturday evening.

This just might be the sweetest moment ever...captured on camera. These little girls were mesmerized and honored to get to be Miss Stacy's little flowergirls.

They even sported HUGE rocks on their left hands. All I can say is, "Bryan...Stacy lost that competition". I think these little ones won out for sure!

and for this "dynamic cousin duo"...they are each other made over!! The only difference between the two is 7 years.

We calmed Andrea down, and snapped a picture of the bridal party.

Why us girls munched on petit fours and sipped pink lemonade, the boys went skeet shooting and barbeque eating at the farm.

As you can see the weather was gorgeous outside. The temperature was amazing. This was only the beginning of the LORD pouring out HIS blessings on us this past weekend!

I think the guys even got a little competitive (imagine that, right?), which wore them slap out...

So, they decided to take a break, and enjoy barbeque, ribs, and all the fixins'. But the BEST part were the desserts prepared by my sweet Grandma who is the epitome of an "AWESOME COOK"...especially when it comes to her banana pudding!

After lots of enjoyable company...we all "prettied up" and headed to the rehearsal. Or as Stacy, being a dance instructor put it, the dress rehearsal.

...and then to the rehearsal dinner at the Country Club. The food was to die for...ceasar salad, blackend chicken and fettuccine, filet mignon, mashed potatoes, asparagus, and chocolate mousse. But even better than the food was the awesome presence of the Holy Spirit in this room. Yea, the food was yummy and the flowers were pretty, but the LORD once again poured out HIS amazing grace on our family. For that...we are so grateful.

Even Tommy (Stacy's brother) showed up as a "paper cut out". He recently earned a place in flight school for air force training after his commission...which might I add is quite an honor. He was not suppose to leave until the beginning of August, but they called him to Colorado a week earlier. So, a few weeks before the wedding he broke the news that he wouldn't be able to share the weekend with us. We were all heart broken, but Tommy always lightens everything up...he promised he'd do everything he could to be there...and lookie here...he showed up!!! Yeap, suit and all...just a paper thin version of himself!

And not for you to think we just ate ourselves through the events, but hey we've been "planning" for a few months, and so it was just eating to make up for lost meals I guess! Because on Saturday morning we headed to brunch at the Sweet Northcutt's home. Mom's dear friend, Patty, did the flowers, and they were "mouth hit the floor" beautiful! Take a look for yourself...

Yeap, this took her hours...and Stacy, Bryan, and Lydia (the dog) even made the arrangement.

Andrea and I dressed up once again...and the brunch was perfect! Thanks hosts and hostesses.

We had family from all over...Jake from Mobile, Dayna from Arizona, Ellie from Dallas

Clara from Spain, and Ali from Washington DC area!! Whoa...this is humbling!!

We quickly scooted back home get ready for the real thing...the ceremony! We had to snap one last picture with the single boy!

And weren't we lucky girls to get to get our picture taken with this cutie!!

And that ceremony wouldn't of been complete without his twin siblings:

LILY

and WHIT (who both turn ONE today...HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!)

The flowers were exquisite at the church...thanks Stanley at The Flower Store! It was like a "fairy tale". And more imporantly...we were humbled by the friends and family who shared the day with us all!

Especially the 8 flowergirls that made the day "So Stacy!" (only 4 of the little angels are pictured here)

I could share pictures forever, but I am going to wrap up Wedding Post #1 here shortly.

These two are vacationing in Maui. They even got upgraded to first class for the 10 hour flight from Atlanta. Oh Bryan...you are always so very lucky! You two are both in our thoughts and prayers as you start married life together.

Thanks to everyone who signed the book, and shared this special weekend with Stacy and Bryan.

Everyone left...and we closed out the party looking like this, and feeling FLAT OUT EXHAUSTED, but EXTREMELY blessed!!!

More to come but for now, Hugs and Kisses!!

Julie

Counting Down!

2009-07-22T16:52:00.007-05:00

Task #1: flower arrangements for the Rehearsal Dinner

"Oasis" flower foam...check!

bowls...check!

1,200 roses...check!

more Waterford bowls...check!

de-leaf ALL 1,200 stems...check!

Looks like we are ready to put start sticking roses, and creating SOME of the masterpieces!

Task #2: Tables set for the Bridesmaid luncheon

Task #3: Picked up a few ferns from the Plant Farm Greenhouses

Task #4: Check on the flowers at The Flower Store

and on the way in I couldn't resist snapping a quick picture of the door handles...LOVE them!

We are all so excited about this weekend! Once Friday and Saturday come, all the hard work from EVERYONE will most definitely pay off. The Lord sure has blessed us with LOTS of sweet friends and family for whom we are SUPER grateful!

Whew...

2009-07-21T20:24:00.004-05:00

Let me "enlighten" you on my whirlwind (and subsequently yummy) day...In a mad dash to Atlanta to pick up my aunt at the airport, Mom and I managed to be extremely productive. It really is amazing how much you can get done in a car with a Blackberry. We ordered fabric, confirmed the bid for the chapter room audio equipment, booked a flight, laughed :-) , made hair appointments, made nail appointments, confirmed ALL food counts for the rehearsal dinner, and a hundred other things I am surprisingly (ha!) forgetting.

We got to Atlanta, the clock read 11:47...meaning we had 2 hours and 13 minutes until we must be at the airport. The bad things is we had A LOT that we wanted to cram into a little amount of time. We went by the few fabric stores off of I-75, and luckily found everything we needed...quickly! At this point the time is now 1:23. In the midst of both of our cell phones ringing off the hook (yes, wedding weekend details still being determined) we stopped at STAR PROVISIONS. Mmm, mmm delicious! Everything on the menu sounds divine, and your eyes are quick to follow all of the food passing by. This is great...but it leaves my little indecisive self flat our confused. I found myself in a state of "I dunno...do I want salad? Do I want a sandwich? Or I mean I could just eat the cupcakes and be happy? That's not filling. Oh...decisions, decisions, decisions.

Well, I made one...the Antipasto: Selection of Three Vegetabe Sides with Butter Lettuce

1. Orechiete w/ Broccoli, Red Onion, Lemon & Goat Cheese

2. Cucumber, Tomato & Basil Salad

3. and Chick Pea Sald

I went for the variety. A nice compromise for myself. Don't you agree?

Star Provisions is located in Atlanta's Midtown West. If you are not familiar with Atlanta, there is a lot of adaptive reuse development going on in this part of town (or was going on...like everything else, our economic state has taken a toll on construction). Actually, Star Provisions is even located in an old, readapted factory building off of Howell Mill Road. As a tangent of the upscale Atlanta restaurant Bacchanali, Star Provisions is a hybrid bakery, deli, gourmet store, and market. It is kind of like a high-end "one stop shop". In all honesty the food is really good, but I really think the best part is the space + design. Every corner is unique, the business cards are drool worthy, and the fixtures are aghhhhh...COOL!

This was a YUM-O end to a BUSY day, and left us just enough time to pull up to the north terminal at the Atlanta Airport to pick up my aunt...and finally head home!

I'll take One of Each, Please!

2009-07-20T08:42:00.001-05:00

"This print is based on an original Famille Summerbelle hand paper cut of Paris. It shows all of the arrondissements and attractions of Paris, as well as some of the quirky side of Parisian life."

"This print is based on an original Famille Summerbelle hand paper cut of London. It shows detail of the central boroughs of London with the attractions and cultural pursuits that make London so special."

*images from Famille Summerbelle

A Departure from Beach Bliss!

2009-07-19T12:18:00.006-05:00

Friday was my last day working in Santa Rosa with the most amazing friend, (twin) sister, designer, aunt, daughter, wife, and soon to be new mom...Erika. I told her I will miss her joyful "Good Morning" everyday when I walk in. No worries...I will be back to visit!

Leaving this beauty...

And welcomed home by the chaos of "last minute wedding craziness"...

Like:

1. deciding to climb on ladders all afternoon, and re-hang plates in the kitchen

2. helping get together pretty little packages for hostess gifts

3. or better yet make bows, and assemble baskets for out of town family

4. and the most exciting part (and easiest for me because I did not help), simply LOOKing at (and taking LOTS of pictures) how beautiful the boxwood planters turned out once we had them all potted up outside. They will line the entry into the museum at the reception, which is exactly ONE week from yesterday!

As far as the wedding goes, that's all for now folks!

I would like to leave you with one gift giving idea:

If you would please take a "zoomed-in" look at the little pearl hanging form Andrea's neck...that's what I am talking about. The little necklace is from a collection of jewels and gifts by the company Dogeard, "spreading good energy...one jewel at a time". All of their jewelry is handmade in Southern California. All of their pieces are super simple, and casual enough to wear all the time.

I gave this necklace to Andrea before she left for camp as a reminder of our "Pearls of ...Friendship". The necklace comes on a shimmery, golden card that reads:

"from humble beginnings as a rough grain of sand, the pearl slowly grows into an object of beauty and simplicity. symbolic of honesty, integrity, prosperity and wisdom. pearls represent the best within us. let your necklace be a daily reminder of the beauty and simplicity of our friendship! enjoy and believe!"

This is just one of MANY jeweled gift quotes they offer. This just makes for a meaningful, unique gift, and I thought I must share!

Designer TOAST

2009-07-17T07:30:00.000-05:00

Use this...

to get this...

What a "pretty" way to serve an otherwise ordinary, boring slice of bread! I am thinking lets have brunch!

*images via anna baptist's blog

architecture meets fashion :: theory

2009-07-15T22:07:00.006-05:00

People always ask me throughout my studies of architecture this one question: "what type of architecture do you study?" For those of you who know the nature of architecture school you understand the confusion in coming up with an answer to that question. Unlike medicine, you do not declare a speciality early-on. By the nature of work you partake in, in practice, you subsequently end up "specializing", like it or not. We do not learn practicalities of everyday practice...that comes in the "real world", but we learn to be creative. Learn to think outside the box. Now that is probably even harder to teach than something as complicated as physics or principles of engineering. We learn that you do not always have to use college-ruled notebook paper, write you name on the right hand corner or your paper, number you answers down the left hand margin #1-20, and make sure to skip lines. Nope...not that CLEAR. It is far more complicated (ha!), or shall I say interpretive than that. So "get out a piece of paper " might really be interpreted as pulling out a sheet of recycled linen, unruled paper, pull out a micron pen, script your name along the left hand edge of the paper, and then creativity sets in...the outcome is always different for each individual.

Whoa...I just went on a total tangent. So, my point was about the lack of educational specialization in the field of architecture. What would my answer be to that all-time favorite question: "what type of architecture do you study?"

Here is my answer:

Hmmm...I do not study this, but I am specially drawn to retail architecture. Both the exterior facades, and the interior selections/finishes. Work in retail sets the stage for a unique opportunity...always. The work is specifically driven by the nature of the branding of the company. Yes, that can be limiting in terms of the liberty of the architect, but at the same time sets a beautiful stage for super fun work, for a super FUN company (might I add?)...like:

Theory

Prior to moving here...

Theory's headquarters was located in a portion of one of Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill's buildings. Until one ordinary day when Theory's president, Andrew Rosen, saw this core + shell building shooting up in the meatpacking district of NYC. Second thoughts didn't even cross his mind, he signed a lease, and Rogers Marvel Architects + Zeff Design Interior Designers were on board!! Yes, a dream job for a designer! That is where the FUN began!

This renowned global fashion brand fills the 5 story building: corporate offices, showroom space, design studios, a lounge, and the Theory flagship store. The attention to detail is stunning, nothing is overlooked, and the refined simplicity of the Theory line is captured in every last detail. So for now...take a look for yourself:

A beautiful staircase designed by Interior designer, Mark Zeff. The transparency of the glass allows light to filter from floor to floor, capped off at the top floor with a skylight! The staircase is constructed of precast concrete steps, glass balustrades, and polished stainless-steel handrails.

office area: AutoStrada workstations

CEO's office with custom table and RMA desk, Philippe Starck lamp

custom steel bar to display current fashion line for Theory

Victoria Meyers "Waterfall Table" for the receptionist, with the Charles and Ray Eames leather chair in white=BEAUTY if you ever saw it!

Looking through these images (below) gives great inspiration for how I might design the space. I challenge you to: Look at a different realm of design from the field of design you work. This leaves room for uninhibited interpretation and creativity. For example, sometimes it is harder to look at an inspirational picture of a completed space, lets say for example another retail store, and then take that idea (you like already) and reinterpret it again. Those initial thoughts, ideas, and design applications cloud your thought process, whether intended or not. That is where these images come it. Next time you begin a design process (for architecture/interior design projects) look to the fashion industry, graphic design work, photographers portfolios, company branding, culinary creations, or even the beautiful BLOG WORLD!

Looking at these images makes my heart beat fast. I love the simplicity, professional, and sophisticated look of Theory. From their black slacks (p.s. amazing!) to a simple tee...the clothes are beautifully designed, and even better they're comfortable! While in NYC, Mom and I spent a little to much time in the Theory store on the Upper West Side. We tried on everything from one end of the rack to the other. The sweet girl working there joined in on our fun, and assisted our dress-up frenzy!

*images from Theory, Rogers Marvel Architects, Interior Design Magazine and Zeff Design

the FIRST and LAST

2009-07-13T21:22:00.003-05:00

$1 card sale from Papyrus...

Those of you who read my blog know my obsession with Papyrus (really, paper stores in general). When I was in NYC, Mom and I went to the Papyrus store, and to our surprise we found a bunch of $1 cards. So, naturally I couldn't resist. The only thing was the cards in the store were really picked over. Nevertheless I settled for a $5 purchase (5 cards), and proceeded out the door ecstatic about my new cards.

Still sad that some of the ones I wanted were already gone in the store, I journeyed (meaning my fingers traveling on the keyboard) over to www.payrusonline.com, and stocked UP!!!!! It is just to good of a deal to pass up, and I thought I MUST share with you all.

BIG APPLE :: take 1

2009-07-10T20:40:00.013-05:00

I just rolled in from the always tiring Atlanta Airport, and I am always happy to walk into "HOME" after a long day of traveling. I finagled a trip out of taking my sister to the airport to head west to camp. While I flipped "Heads New York", and she flipped "Tails Colorado". She jetted off to Kanakuk for a couple of weeks of outdoor activities, while I opted for the excitement of the Big Apple! After landing at LaGuardia Airport, I walked outside to find the most amazing weather! I was thrilled...it was not the HOT sauna I had been enduring in Santa Rosa all summer, but unseasonably COOL weather for July in NYC. The cab brought me here, the ever famous Waldorf=Astoria. Unfortunately I only snapped a picture of the (beautiful) floor of the lobby. Maybe because I was really, really hungry! I had been up since 2am, slept two hours that night, and had nothing to eat yet...it was 12:00pm.

So we opted NOT to eat here (to Andrea's dismay)

But at a Midtown favorite, Bistro Milano. It was delicious to say the least.

Polpette di granchio con salsa chipotle Jumbo lump crab cakes served with sweet chipotle sauce

Ensalade con fruta Fruit Salad with the MOST AMAZING avacado puree

And that is just where the eating began, because we also indulged here:

and I would like to share with you how my evening ended...with a fortune:

"the year ahead promises to find you in many interesting positions" -tao

I am not sure what that means. I am not an interpreter of fortunes, I usually leave my future in the hands of our Lord and Savior. So, who knows! The evening was lively and FUN! I definite recommendation to anyone who visits the city. Maybe the name interior will ring a bell when you walk in the main dining area, Tao was featured in the movie Hitch.

The next day was filled with LOTS of shopping, which always calls for a PICK-ME-UP. So when I saw the sign, I though well maybe. A cupcake? Crumbs? hmmm...

But then, I couldn't resist. I had to experience opening THIS door with THIS handle!!

and then all will-power was GONE right back out the door I'd just come in when I saw THIS:

(and I went to my favorite RICE to RICHES too, which is next door to the equally tempting pinkberr y!!!)

THEN the day called for a walk, and a little OUTDOOR time in the amazing weather. We headed over to the High Line. I was really wanting the make it over here, along the West Side Highway near Chelsea+Meat Packing District, ever since I attended a lecture at Auburn of an architect involved in the project.

The High Line 1.45 miles long. It is a modern adaption of an elevated, steel structure built in the 1930s to carry freight trains. The last train ran on the tracks in the late 80s, then donated to the City of New York by the CSX Transportation, and finally put to reuse for New Yorkers+visitors to the area. Amazingly talented architects, Diller Scofidio + Renfro worked on the project to create a truly unique park/green space.

The seating seamlessly rise out of the walkway, and after being there I found out the also dual-purpose as a pretty awesome SLIDE for little kids!

I really started (slightly) screaming when I saw this building (above) under construction. Why? Because the architect, Neil Denari, lectured at Auburn last March. His lecture was entitled: "Speculations On", more specifically about THIS building, the HL23. You are probably wondering why I started bursting with excitement. Here is why...

1. Neil is an award-winning architectural theorist and renowned lecturer

2. because until seeing it in real life, all I had seen was this rendering. Still not that exciting to you? Well, he probably isn't extremely well known outside of the "architectural world" and this is one of his first built projects.

*image from The Real Deal

The building shape responds to set back requirements/zoning regulations along the High Line, as well as efforts to maximize square footage space and enhance views. Thoughtful huh? Developers in Manhattan have to push architects to always think about how they can get the most bang for the buck! Real Estate is pricey!

Now with all the design talk are you hungry again?? Lets head east towards to East Village. For dinner we enjoyed a the charming atmosphere of Elizabeth at 265 Elizabeth Street. Not only is the restaurant quaint and cozy, but the food is fabulous, and for any graphic designers out there they have really neat business cards. I am fascinated by business cards, especially from unique boutiques and restaurants. They are always so well designed. I never fail to snitch one as I swiftly pass by the hostess desk on my way out. They are a super source of inspiration, layered with hours of someone's' "design thoughts".

The restaurant ambiance changes from front to back, when you find the back open up into a green house space with a retractable roof. Dining under star lit skies is sure to be romantic. The food is FAB, and the sangria is to die for! This is my 2nd time here, and I would still go back again and again.

But I will say, all uniqueness aside, getting to dine here with my long distance b/f who lives in Manhattan topped of a super evening!

Off to unpacking now!

creativeCHALLENGE

2009-07-03T07:00:00.001-05:00

This is part fun, part creative, part hysterical, and kind of flat out tacky.

I came across this last night when I ran in Winn-Dixie to get some fruit. This is a true 4th of July celebration MUST (half-kidding). I thought maybe this would inspire some of you to give it a shot, try to create your own "hambuger cake" for your July 4th party this weekend. If anyone comes up with something super creative (meaning you blow my socks off), I might just have to REWARD you!! Meaning a little surprise...YES!! Get your creative juices flowing, head to the kitchen, and see what you can come up with!

And before I go, thought you might like to know that Duncan Hines finally got it...We DO NOT always want to have to make 24 cupcakes, but we are given no choice.

We have to make a whole box of batter, and:

A. bake all 24 cupcakes
(or)
B. bake what we want, and dispose of the rest (dispose meaning TRASH it or EAT it)
(or)
C. come up with other alternatives

BUT not anymore...they now sell 1/2 box mixes that make a dozen perfect, cute, yummy, CUPCAKES!!

Thank you Duncan Hines!

a litte SLICE of something Italian

2009-07-02T17:30:00.001-05:00

Erika and I had lunch with Erin and Pietro yesterday. It was a real "Italian treat". I am savoring every minute I get to see them before they head back to Rome next week :-(

Erin graciously carried gifts all the way across the Atlantic for us, from the Fabriano Boutique. All of the cards+paper goods she gave us are so neat, I do not know if I will be able to bring myself to actually use them.

The goodies came wrapped in fun yellow enevelope

from my favorite Italian family...

And now you can take a peak for yourself, and understand how excited I felt when I peered into the envelope to find all of these YUMMY PAPER GOODS...

Really the assortment was great, the cards (if I can bring myself to use the pretty things) ranged from "WELL DONE" to...

"CONGRATULATIONS!

and one of my favorites being the one that read simply reads GRAZIE. I can say, "thank-you" is one of the few Italian words I perfected while I was in Italy all of last spring.

THANKS ERIN!! You are a sweet, sweet friend! I treasure your friendship, and your families too!

Paper Source OBSESSION!

2009-07-01T07:00:00.001-05:00

Are you still with me my friends? My computer has been "sick", but I think things are getting better! I am working on an invitation for a bridal luncheon for Stacy. Here are my thoughts:

5"x5" cards in Stardream Quartz

embellished on the corners with my fleur corner hole punch

wrapped in petal envelopes

add a "bling" touch to the design (I will reveal later)

and last but not least sealed with a DOT

All from Paper Source

So what are your thoughts? Would you come to the party??

blogger friends!

2009-06-29T07:05:00.000-05:00

Last night was such a treat! I got to see my sweet Rome family friends, the Gianni family!!! They are here in Santa Rosa Beach for 10 days! When I first saw their two kids, Stella hugged my leg, and Diego asked me if I'd come all the way from Rome too! Stella might be the only one they has told me the long flight over the Atlantic was FUN.

But not only did I get to see them, it was a BIG blogger-fest! Erika and Darby were there too! Darby...your 3 little ones, well, they do not come much cuter!! I loved seeing them in person!

This is short and sweet because I am holding down the fort at work. Love you all! Be back for more, but my laptop is sick :-(

Redneck Kayakers

2009-06-23T18:45:00.001-05:00

This past weekend, we loaded up the kayak...and went kayaking..."redneck style".

Wait...let me take a step back. Really I need to justify the reasoning behind going kayaking in a ~~small pond~~ lake. Andrea is going to choose kayaking as one of her "kamp" activities when she goes to K-Kolorado, a Kanakuk Kamp, in two weeks. Yes, kamp with a "K"...promise that's not a typo.

My brother an avid (using that term loosely) kayaker gave us a little Kayaking 101. So the choice of location for practice was based upon the fact that there are NO RAPIDS.

I even gave it a shot. I look hardcore...defnitely was NOT taking my "practice" very serious. I can promise you that!

But this one was a STAR, and she will now be the PRO star at Kanakuk!!

FUN in the SUN

2009-06-20T15:52:00.003-05:00

This sums up my past 24 hours:

It was absolutely beautiful! The amazing weather was a gift from our heavenly Father (minus the EXTREME heat).

Stacy and all of her bridesmaids headed to the lake for a night outing. I was thrilled about a mini escape, and most excitingly that my new camera+lens got to tag along. I think all of us gave it a test run, while practicing our photography skills.

And for a little energy, we made none other than a Funfetti cake...only cooking about 3/4 of the batter while indulging in the other 1/4 of it pre-baking (and pre-eggs!!). I am terrified of eating raw eggs...I WILL NOT do it! Yes you can lick the bowl, but not if I have already put the eggs in it. And believe me when there is batter in that bowl it can be tempting, but not gonna happen!

Oops we poured the mix in the big red bowl, and not the electric mixer bowl...meaning: this was HARDWORK!! But your tummy will tell you it is well worth the pain in your arm.

And yes the night was FUN! We sat out on the dock for a while, swam in the lake, played Catch Phrase, ate at Oscars for dinner (a must at Lake Martin), made a cake, talked, laughed, and even got in a little wedding planning...

Mr. A.D.O.R.A.B.L.E. (Gizmo) didn't miss a beat, he traced our every step!

going back in time

2009-06-17T17:28:00.008-05:00

Maybe you remember this picture from this post

Well now things have been stocked FULL, join me as I take you through a photographic journey of ALL the details...

(look they're vintage dress patterns like I posted about earlier today...originally sold for $0.25 not the $95 you can buy them for today)

one of my favorites...an old seed bin

and after going back in time at the "general store", I took it outside into the HOT HEAT of summer!! Yes it hit 100 degrees today, and I was out in it.

I picked this corn, shucked it clean, and...

made the corn on the cob become the less messy corn off the cob for a tasty addition to dinner. I am convinced that eating corn on the cob is only acceptable in the privacy of your home. It is pretty much impossible to eat it with any manners: butter running down the side of your face, messy hands, corn stuck in your teeth...well, you get where I am going: ITS A tasty MESS!

X marks the spot for...

2009-06-17T17:04:00.003-05:00

a little CHI OMEGA treasure!

with hard hats on, closed toe shoes tied tight, and making sure not to violate an OSHA code

we enter the ChiO chapter room in the new Auburn University dorms

to see this

FINALLY INSTALLED!!!

More pictures to come as the Kravet draperies are hung, Hickory Chair sofas in place, and hours of design work continue to unfold! But hey for now...floors, paint, and trim is a BIG check off of the TO DO list!

fashionista!

2009-06-17T06:52:00.004-05:00

The evolution of fashion is fascinating to me. It is so fun to see how styles evolve, change, and recirculate. You never know what is coming next!! So, your best bet is to find some extra closet space, and hang on to your "as of today OUT OF STYLE item". I guarantee you, give it a little time, because tomorrow it might be fashionable again.

This SITE is beyond amazing: Really!!! These are Authentic Vintage Sewing Patterns. They are a little pricey, but the site offers anything from 1950s patterns to vintage apron patterns or bridal wear. If anything it is fun enough to simply browse through the patterns, and just look at the hand sketched images of a little sewing labor! Wish I could say I am off to sewing, but other more important things are pulling at me right now.

*images from the So Vintage Patterns website

2009-06-15T10:05:00.004-05:00

Come with me and lets smell the roses of a fabulous weekend…

Saturday at the crack of dawn, my brother, sister, and I all headed to Atlanta for a day of shopping. Our first stop, Scott Antique Market:

There was beautiful things coming out of the woodwork. I saw this owl print, and my first thought...in the kitchen of the new ChiO dorm. Mom has been looking for a "fun" print to hang on the wall in there. I have searched etsySHOP high and low, but yet to fall in love with one. I almost bought this one, but then my indecisiveness set in. Is it to masculine? I would want to change the frame. Do I like the contrast of the colors? I do not know about the binoculars. Needless to say, I DID NOT buy it, but then I came home and looked through my pictures and was kind of mad at myself. But oh well, we had lots of other great purchases, and maybe I can even solicit your help to find the PERFECT one.

I really liked these too, but if we'd bought everything I "LIKED" then I would of done major, I MEAN MAJOR, damage!

Bryan found two awesome (awesome looking and awesome priced) mirrors, a set of 6 chairs, and some other things.

The only downside was Andrea had to ride squished in the back with all of the "stuff". Can you tell she didn't mind at all?? She's a trooper! And I must mention I am not sure how we fit all of this in the back of my car. It was like putting a puzzle together.

But we still hadn't had enough. We went mattress shopping too! These two are pretty cool... while I am not b/c I embarrass us all while taking pictures in the home department at Bloomingdales. But I had to get a shot of them on the MOST EXPENSIVE mattress I have ever seen.

I DID NOT KNOW THAT THEY MADE A MATTRESS THAT HAD A PRICE TAG ON IT THIS EXPENSIVE...

YES!!! Your eyes are not going bad, $21,566.00!!!!!!!!!!!

We did find a mattress Bryan liked, and no it was not this one. Though it sure is a good thing they deliver because otherwise we'd of had it strapped on the top of the car (or drag behind?)

It was a L O N G day, but we had A LOT of fun together! And to top it off we came home to a surprise from my grandfather:

Sqaush and string beans from our farm!!

Have you ever seen so many green beans at one time? And I snapped ALL OF THEM, ALL BY MYSELF!! It took me over an hour, and so YES...we will be eating green beans for at least a week I am afraid!

Two 1.5 gallon tupperware containers of snapped beans! YUM!

Along with this YUM to the TUM fresh summer squash. I am thinking squash casserole tonight. My all time favorite, and we usually only have it at Thanksgiving.

More the come!

xo, julie

headed to ATL

2009-06-12T23:31:00.003-05:00

Looking forward to a warm cup of coffee (early) in the morning, and then off to Scott Antique Market in Atlanta for a quick visit!

The camera will be in hand, so Look forward to A LOT of FUN pictures!!

ColorSNAP + benCOLOR capture

2009-06-11T07:52:00.003-05:00

Are you thinking what I am thinking?

What will Apple think of next? Along with both Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore, Apple has developed a new application for the iPhone. Yes that's right a new APPLICATION. All you do is snap a picture of a color anywhere in the world, and the phone will work it's magic. Then, tadaaa...it will match it to one of over 3,300 Benjamin Moore hues and/or 1,500 Sherwin Williams hues (along with a coordinating palette).

so my creative brain took over

2009-06-10T20:06:00.003-05:00

...and this was the result:

(click on the image to enlarge)

I decided to use my Ai program on my laptop and design my own invites for Stacy's (my brother's fiance) bachelorette party only a few weekends away. They were printed on white, linen card stock, mailed in #10 Paper Source open end mailer envelopes, hand addressed, stamped with the new USPS stamps (thanks for introducing these to me Mom), and adorned with a flower matching the card. It was a fun, simple little project. The weekend is sure to be fun-filled, with lots of excitement!

(I would be totally open to designing custom invites if anyone is interested!!)

absolutely to die for...

2009-06-09T08:15:00.004-05:00

When I was in Florence last spring in went in this "blow your mind away, touch EVERYTHING store": Faliero Sarti-beautiful! They have the most AMAZING scarves, shawls, gloves, and hats made in the finest cashmere, wool, cotton, linen, and canape. Why I did not make a purchase when I was in there...I DON'T know!! I wish I could snap my fingers and return to Florence right now because the store, with out a doubt, is well worth a visit...I can almost say it is worth another flight over the Atlantic! Have I yet to convince my fellow bloggers of how amazing this fashion shop is????

The details, the material, the craft...all are exquisite!!

"welcome HOME"

2009-06-06T08:05:00.007-05:00

This graced me with its presence when I got home. WEDDING INVITATIONS. Our dining room table does not only have one use...I mean it does not even dual functions, but it MULTI functions. It can go from being beautifully set for elaborate dinners, to holding a spread of fabrics and floor plans, to this...a workspace for envelope stuffing, stamp sticking, licking & sealing, and addressing one wedding invite after another!!

all of that work, can kind of make you feel like this:

Do NOT be fooled, our R&R session lasted about 5 minutes. Then with hostess gifts in hand...

and our dresses on...we headed to another WEDDING PARTAYY! (This was about picture number 05, or was 50?, that I snapped of Andrea...she was giving me a hard time. What can I say, I am the weird girl with the camera!)

*remember this dress, I have been inspired. Read on, and you will see!

The party was hosted by all my aunts and uncles. It was at the outdoor pavilion at Moores Mill Club, the evening could not of been more splendid. We danced, danced, and danced some more out on the dance floor. But I must not forget to mention that the girls had a HULA HOOP competition, and then the guys did too...it was HILARIOUS!

they did not last long, but the kids persevered...

and they even danced as much as we did...WAY TO ADORABLE!

ALL the GIRLS say hello, and send their love to my blog readers!

Now for a little DESIGN INSPIRATION: check out Andrea's dress (far right), giraffe print!!

FUN, huh? Yes, I know what you are thinking, animal prints are so trendy, but it makes for a design inspiring blog post, so here it goes...

An animal (giraffe) print by Kelly Wearstler

A LOT of this fabric could be overwhelming because it is BOLD, but it could be used more subtly as an accent in a room. Maybe a throw pillow, or even a fun window treatment for a little boys room.

Speaking of little boys, this Joseph Adler giraffe lamp would be a stunning addition to a litte boy's (or a girl's) nursery. How fun is the top?? The giraffe's head acts as a super fun finial.

This same ceramic giraffe comes in right and left facing sconces too!!

Add this cute fabric as an accent in the room, with some softer solid color fabrics, or neutral linen window panels to balance the bright, busy pattern

I LOVE fun fabrics!!

That was a random tangent, but hope you enjoyed!! Happy Saturday!

YELLOW!

2009-06-04T07:48:00.003-05:00

You probably look at this picture once, maybe even twice a day. Have you ever noticed Miss Morton Salt Umbrella Girl's fashion sense? Her yellow shoes are rather inspiring to me.

I have been thinking that I should maybe even purchase a pair of my own to add to my closet. What do you think?

*image from here

The ageless girl has slightly modernized her style over the years. Staring in 1911, and putting on her yellow shoes in 1968! You can read more about her heritage here.

guess what?

2009-06-03T22:06:00.002-05:00

Today at work Erika made final nursery design decisions, and let me just say it is going to be ADORABLE! I thought that I would share the design inspiration board with all my fellow bloggers, so I snapped a quick photo for you all to see. But...maybe I shouldn't steal her thunder, this must be her surprise!! Right? So, I decided to put my Photoshop skills to the test. To your dismay to outcome is a SWIRLED view:

Let the anticipation rise, and soon enough the beauty will unfold. So for now I will leave you with this:

*flowers from outside the office Erika brought me at my computer yesterday!!

AuBuRn

2009-06-03T08:10:00.002-05:00

I am looking forward to a trip back home this weekend to the beautiful AUBURN!! Lots of parties, a wedding, a day at the farm, church, friends & family are awaiting!!

here it is in a NUTshell

2009-06-01T15:53:00.000-05:00

The majority of my weekend consisted of me sitting by the pool or on the beach swirling my feet in the sand {which surprisingly provides a nice alternative to an expensive pedicure...sand is like a natural, free food scrub}.

The weekend was beautiful, and hardly a CLOUD in the sky. Look, you can even see it for yourself!

But without clouds, there is never a second of relief from the direct beaming sunlight putting wrinkles on my face. So, yes it is true...I am the person that buys this stuff: SPF 70 sunblock lotion. I bet you saw this and thought SPF70?? Who really wears that, besides babies?? Why even go out in the sun? Well, lets just say I am rocking the "positively ageless" claims by Aveeno!

But we all know the real truth. It does not matter what SPF we wear, the best SPF is to simply go inside. In most cases there is no FUN in that when it's a pretty day. But, the heat had drained my energy, and the word Target entered my thoughts. So I hope in the car and 2 miles away, I grace Target with my slightly sun-kissed presence {what the SPF didn't BLOCK}. What caught my eyes first? Father's Day Cards...What a special day for daddies and their little girls!!

And after I scoped out EVERYTHING on the shelves in Target, from garden pots to Kashi cereal, I made a trip to Barnes and Noble. Here I spent 2 long hours looking at books and magazine while sipping a cafe au lait from the coffee cafe. Which throughly caffeinated me for a fun dinner evening with my dear friend Cantrell and her family at their beach villa. {I am so mad at myself, but I snapped NO pictures that evening. Please, shed a few tears with me.}

And when I wasn't in the SUN (wearing SPF 70), I was inside reading, watching movies, or being crafty (I have a few projects up my sleeve!! Anticipate a future post!)

And last but not least I want to share a "virtual treat" with you from my new cookbook. If you cannot manage to make it to William Sonoma for your own...NO WORRIES, I am here to save the day!

a little "virtual recipe treat" just for you...

*I snapped this picture at erika's today, while getting some water!!

naturally I choose a pasta dish (remember I was in Italy for months)...everything looks SUPER so I literally had to put my indecisiveness aside and just go with one:

spicy roasted cauliflower pasta

4 slices (each about 1/2 inch thick)

2 cloves garlic, peeled

2 heads (about 2 lbs) cauliflower

3 Tbsp olive oil

salt

3/4 lb whole-wheat penne

1/4 cup lemon juice

1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped

3 Tbsp capers, drained

1 tsp red pepper flakes

1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 300F. Place bread slices on a baking sheet and bake until crisp and dry, about 30 minutes. Rub one slide of each slice with a garlic clove. Cool, then tear into chunks. Put in a food processor and process into coarse crumbs. Increase oven temperature to 400F.

Cut cauliflower into quarters. Discard leaves and cores and cut into slices about 1/4-1/2 inch thick. Mince remaining clove of garlic. Put cauliflower in a large baking pan and gently toss with olive oil, 1/2 tsp. salt, and minced garlic. Roast, stirring after 10 minutes, until cauliflower is browned on edges and tender when pierced, about 20 minutes.

Cook pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente, about 12 minutes or according to package directions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of cooking water. Return pasta to pot and mix with cauliflower, lemon juice, parsley, capers, red pepper flakes, and reserved cooking water. Stir in bread crumbs and cheese and serve at once.

4-6 servings. source of vitamins. source of antioxidants

*recipe from eat well cookbook

a YUMMY post

2009-05-29T21:51:00.004-05:00

Sorry my fellow blog readers, but this beauty has captivated me. Who wants to sit inside on a computer when this is "SCREAMING" their name?? {*note: it takes a lot to pull me away from blogging time}

pure bliss for the eyes...

and this is pure bliss for the mouth...my new purchase from one of my very favorite stores, William Sonoma. I spent about 30 minutes looking through all of their cookbooks, and I settled on this one: eat well _ healthy ways to enjoy the foods you love So you might wonder, how to narrow down a HUGE cookbook selection to ONE. The endless choices of cookbooks at WS is overwhelming, especially for me, I am one indecisive girl in most cases. But this one was a no brainer...there are pictures for ALL of the recipes and ALL of them look SCRUMPTIOUS!! I pretty much drooled as I flipped through the pages of endless YUMMINESS! I usually do not buy cookbooks because you can find almost anything and everything online, but this is one a MAJOR exception!!! It is pure yummy beautifulness! And besides, it is one of the cheaper options, we are talking William Sonoma ladies and gentlemen.

here are just a few of the cookbook contents

okay...I really am drooling looking at these pictures, so I am going to attempt some time at "inspiration clipping". ha-just came up with that new title? That is what I call it when I start flipping through magazines, and tearing/clipping/cut&pasting things that make me go WOW!!

multitasking while:

watching (or listening to): Raising Helen

wearing: pj's

drinking: ice water

sitting: indian style {aka "criss-cross applesauce"} on the floor in front of the couch...don't ask, I have always been a floor girl

craving: rice pudding from rice to riches in NYC (yes, the SHIP and have e-GIFT CERTIFICATES...TEMPTING!!!)

was talking to: my lovely grandma on my blackberry

needing to: brush my teeth

& excited about: my BIG beach blog post, coming soon

it's FRIDAY!

2009-05-29T08:29:00.001-05:00

I am pulling a BIG post out of my sleeve this weekend. I'm off, see you soon!

really??

2009-05-27T23:13:00.002-05:00

just saw this on twitter :: TODAYshow

craziness!

WINE to LIGHT

2009-05-27T22:47:00.003-05:00

Just this past weekend, I found one crazy cool fixture at an antique store. Talk about being creative, the woven wire is an old wine barrel form. It is lined with a burlap fabric, wired from the top, and hung from a thick roping. It makes for a great rustic look. The price ticket was a little nuts, but makes for an filed away idea for the future!

@ the beach

2009-05-26T07:43:00.004-05:00

sand. sound of the waves. AM coffee on the balcony. bud & alleys. suntan. morning-time panera bagels. walking to baytowne. movies on rainy afternoons. running on the beach. scrumptious food. hwy 98. outlet stores. BIG boats. lots of friends. reading by the pool. resort landscaping. unique architecture. ciao bella pizza. antique stores. summer fashion. humidity+hair=a BIG issue. seaside design. publix's shopping. blackend grouper. endless leisure driving. lots of activity. studio b. marinas. dippin dots. refreshing colors. florida air...and not to mention :: interior design work. pretty fabrics. unique ideas. inspirational surroundings.

I am loving getting to enjoy all of this splendor this summer, while working down here this summer with sweet erika @ urban grace interiors.

If only I could be a kid again?

2009-05-21T09:53:00.003-05:00

I have a slight obsession with JCrew, but even more so their crewcuts line for kids...in LOVE!!

it was a success + blog worthy farm visit

2009-05-20T12:59:00.007-05:00

The "tomato pie" was delicious (and easy):

You start with a store bought pie crust, and place it inside a buttered glass pie dish. If you have one of those fancy-spancy tools you can even make the edges of the dough pretty. I don't. Then you spead the crust with 2 Tablespoons of dijon or spicy mustard.

Next you grate 1/2 pound of swiss cheese, and place it evenly over the mustard.

Next up cover the cheese with 1/4 inch thick sliced tomatoes. The recipe called for 3 tomatoes, but I used more.

Lastly for the preparation part...sprinkle the tomatoes with coarse salt, dried basil (or fresh thyme leaves).

Bake in a 350 degree preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the crust is brown. Sprinkle with fresh basil (from your garden). And TaDa!! YUM-O!

After eating that scrumptious garden dish, the beautiful outside calls your name. So I ventured out to our farm in "Little Texas" (in Alabama) to see what projects my grandpa has been up to lately. (the camera came along too!!)

So follow me! Come on through the gate and lets explore:

Since last time I have been out there (pre-Rome), the barn has been restored.

The cupola has been built for the roof, but yet to be placed. It was so large that, they had to construct it in two separate pieces. My grandpa has special ordered the weather vane (I am embarressed to say this, but I had to google (yes, those are the google colors) that word to make sure I spelled it right:-/ vein? vane? who knew!)

and the landscape it pretty enough to speak for itself :-)

...with rows of sweet corn planted, and ready for harvesting this summer!

The other project up my grandfather's sleeve...recreating an old country store. The interior is so NEAT! These old shelves he bought and had restored, even the ladder.

The $25 dollar mantle...

and another shot of the old wooden shelving

and another $25 dollar steal, the fixture in the side room (a new one he found just like this one...$125)

and one of my very favorite details...the front door, which my grandpa and helpers meticulously hammered away at for hours and hours.

details...

more details...the glass is hand poured by a company in Germany, but it is avaliable from a place in Montgomery (I love the old glass look...)

and another favorite the old troughs, which were salvaged and reset in the barn

for the 3 new shetland ponies (yet to be named)

Thats all for now folks...I have 500 million things on a "to do list", but for some reason my "to do list" has fallen off the priority list.

cooking, parties, the whole 9 yards

2009-05-18T20:12:00.006-05:00

While sipping coffee on the couch and flipping through lots of Mom's "design" coffee table books, we were inspired...

...not inspired by design ideas in the FRENCH CHICart of decorating houses, but by the chic brunch ideas in the back of the book. The perfect recipe jumped out because it called for LOTS of tomatoes: tarte a la tomate {or for the lack of added elegance, tomato pie}. We picked these from the "garden" yesterday, and they are screaming EAT ME!!

Hopefully the finished product will look like this!!

I have extreme confidence because the recipe looks rather simple.

Unfortunately that couch resting time did not last long. But it was excitement that drew us up off that couch...for Stacy & Bryan's engagement party. It was a magical night {minus a little rain}. It was so humbling to see the love of all people who are near and dear to our hearts. We had family and friends come from Atlanta, Montgomery, Birmingham, and even as far as New York City to share this special time with Stac & Bryan!

The setting was beautiful. And as you can see the guests were some of my very favorite people!

I even acted like the paparazzi for a little while...

even snapping a picture of the BRIDE & GROOM...

and another...

and even one of the younger ones of the crowd

The party was so much FUN, we all WAY overstayed our welcome. We cannot begin to tell the 17 hosts how thankful we are for their hard work, beautiful evening, yummy food, stunning flowers, and amazing FRIENDSHIPS!! They are all precious blessings from the LORD, and we are thankful to have them as a part our lives!

oh how I'd love to have...

2009-05-18T13:59:00.003-05:00

Martha Stewart's Crafts Room: {but make it my very own}

with an embroidery machine

lots of natural light, clean lines, refreshing colors, and SPACE

lots of tools (and aghh....organization!!)

a perfect spot for EVERYTHING

ribbons, glues, glitters, paper, punches, and the list goes on

really...endless JARS of "happy goodness"

*all images from marthastewart.com

a designers eye exam

2009-05-18T07:52:00.000-05:00