Hi Friends! I’m Natalie Mason. I live in Charleston, SC and I am mom to Sterling 12 , Frances Moon 8 and our mini golden doodle Dolly.

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Thoughts For Thursday

Feb 2, 2017

Happy Thursday.  

Several of you messaged me and wanted the recipe for this quinoa salad I made for lunch this week.  I used Ina Garten’s recipe for her Middle Eastern Salad and just added quinoa.

You can see the recipe HERE

Inspired by my resort post I picked up this pom-pom maxi dress for St John.  It is cotton and so comfy.

Dress | also in white

My dresser arrived for the bedroom.  Things are slowly coming together.  I am having it painted in the next few weeks and a new rug is on the way too.  I also plan to mount the tv on the wall.

Dresser

I mentioned last week that I had crazy bad chapped lips for almost 2 months.  I received so many great suggestions and some of you wanted to know what people recommended, so here were the most popular:

– Lanolin (aka nipple cream)

– aquaphor 

Fresh Sugar Lip Therapy

Sarah Happ Lip Slip and Scrub

Elizabeth Arden 8 hour miracle cream

Beauty Counter Lip Conditioner

– coconut oil

I ended up ordering the Sarah Happ products and love them.  I had been using Aquaphor before and for me it just wasn’t working.  The scrub really helped to get the dead skin off my lips.  I ordered this grapefruit flavor but you are better off to buy the set as it is cheaper.  The lip slip feels amazing on your lips and really moisturizes.  

Several people said you could make your own scrub as well with brown sugar and olive oil.

Lip Slip + Lip Scrub

Snapped the sweetest picture the other night while Sterling and Frances Moon were watching TV.

Two White blouses I am loving.

This one is currently on sale + 40% off making it $26.

Tie Neck Blouse

Off Shoulder Blouse

Under $100 and I am wearing a small.

Shopbop just reduced many items.  Scroll through to see a few I am loving.  That first sweater is my favorite! 

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I stopped in Indigo Market this week to look at a rug and they had some really pretty stuff.  

Loving this Pinot Noir I picked up at Total Wine.

How gorgeous is this orchid I found at Lowes?  It came already potted in the glass container with the spike plant. 

Outfit planning.  I am hoping to wear this out this weekend.

Blouse | Jeans | Pumps | Purse

My dad shared this with me and I loved it so I wanted to share it too.

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Thoughts For Thursday

Jan 26, 2017

Happy Thursday!  I can’t believe this is last Thursday of the month already!

I finally decided to cut a few inches off my hair yesterday.  I was nervous but glad I finally did.  It feels so much healthier.

Several of you asked about my sunglasses in the picture above.  They are only $24 and I love the larger size.  They come in a few other colors as well.   Also loving my new Anna Beck ring, I adore her jewelry.  My nail color is OPI Taupe-less Beach.

Sunglasses | Ring I also love this style

Last night was my monthly girl’s supper club.  We tried out Aya in Mt Pleasant which was delicious.  I had the Ramen Bowl and Avocado tacos and both were so good!

Outfit Details

This ruffle tee is only $35 and also comes in a blush pink color.  I went with a size medium for a boxier fit. 

Tee | Earrings | Clutch | Jeans | Pumps | Watch

I snuck a ride on Sterling’s 4 wheeler and I gotta say those things are fun.

Barre Class details.  I loved my black leggings like this so much I bought the navy as well.

Yoga mat | Leggings

I tried a coffee spot this week, Rise Coffee Bar on Wentworth.  A friend recommended their almond latte and it was so good!

I mentioned before I am revamping my master bedroom.  A few pieces have started arriving and I am getting so excited about it!  

Pillows | Bench | Artwork | Throw 

We found a heart shaped strawberry in our carton.  How cool is that?

This little lady has so much attitude these days.  Gotta love her.

For some reason our hall bath tub water was not heating this week so I had to improvise and bathe Frances in the kitchen sink.  Not gonna lie it was kind of nice I could cook dinner and watch her at the same time.  I remember when I was young my grandmother always bathed us in her sink and we loved it. The Beauty Counter kids collection is my favorite, I especially love the conditioner for Frances.

I seriously can’t get enough of Parenthood.  I am already worrying what I am going to watch when it is over.  I look forward to getting in bed and watching it every night! I just love all the characters.   Any other Netflix favs?

Have a great day!

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Thoughts For Thursday

Dec 1, 2016

Our house is finally totally decorated inside and out!  It feels good to have all this accomplished by December 1.  Here are a few snaps of my favorite decorations around the house.  

I am hosting my annual girl’s Christmas party next week.  I usually just serve wine and appetizers and we do a dirty santa gift exchange which can be pretty funny.  I am looking for some fun new apps to try- any holiday favorites?  These are 2 I found on Pinterest that I am considering.  

Brie Apple and Honey Crostini

Cheesy Bacon Holiday Crack

Big thank to you my reader who told me start Elin Hilderbrand’s Christmas series.  I just started the first book in the series and I am loving it.  A perfect story for this time of year.

Winter Street

Speaking of books I just finished listening to Amy Schumer’s book and loved it.  She is hilarious and it was so interesting to hear stories about her past.  Books on tape on my new jam, so perfect for road trips.

I spied the most gorgeous table setting at GDC Home this week.  I bought a few of those cute linen napkins to save as gifts.  

My favorite lounge pants from last year are back in stock in some fun new prints for the holidays.  These pants are seriously cozy!!  I am wearing a size small.

Lounge pants | Faux Fur Throw | Peace Pillow

Sterling lost another tooth this week.  I just love his notes for the tooth fairy.   He is such a sweet boy except when he is talking back which is often these days:)

I picked up this red wine while I was home in Charlotte last week at the Winestore.  It is so good, I highly recommend it.

Ombre Love.  This top is tee shirt material but it has cashmere blended in which makes it so soft!!

Ombre Tunic

It also comes in a beautiful blue cowl neck version.

Any potty training tips for difficult kids?  Frances is honestly too big for her diapers and now that she has turned 3 it’s time.  Sterling was so easy to potty train and so far Frances cries every time I ask her to tee tee on the potty.

Happy December 1st!

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Thoughts for Thursday

Nov 17, 2016

Can ya’ll believe Thanksgiving is one week from today?  Crazy right?  

I found the cutest sparkly french fry shirt for Frances at Target this week.  She loved it of course, sparkles and her favorite food:)   I loved the pizza version too!

French Fry shirt | Leggings | Shoes

Another recent Frances Moon outfit.  I seriously love what she puts together.  She is very opinionated! 

Tee Shirt | Tutu Skirt

I have mentioned my love for Barrington Totes on here often.  They only run a sale only once a year  and it started yesterday.  Use code VIP15 to save 15% off all orders.  

This St Anne Tote is an everyday favorite.  I used it as a diaper bag with Frances and now as a purse. 

St Anne Tote | Tee | Scarf | Jeans | Necklace

I also love the St Charles Yacht Tote.   It is the perfect carry on size for flying because it fits right under the seat and it holds so much!

A recent outfit this week.   I have loved that is slightly cooler here!  

OTK Boots | Sweater on sale  | Necklace | Jeans

This was a dinner I made this week.  Roasted sweet potatoes + Sauteed Kale and broccolini + pesto quinoa.  For the quinoa I buy these pre-made cups by Cucina & Amore (see pic below).  They come in a few flavors and I love them for lunch or dinner.   I roasted the sweet potatoes with olive oil and salt.  Then I sauteed the kale and broccolini in olive oil and added balsamic vinegar at the end.     The three were a great combo together.  

This flavor is my favorite but the pesto is a close second! The sauce comes separate on top and you just mix it all together!  

I am still slowly decorating for Christmas.  It is nice since we will be gone next week to come back and have some of the decorating done before we get our tree.

I found my tall glass trees at Home goods and the smaller ones at an estate sale.  Simon Pierce makes some really gorgeous ones too but they are pricey.  

I am addicted to Hallmark and Lifetime Christmas movies.  I have watched one every single day for the past 8 days.  Not sure if I should be proud or ashamed.  But I love them. I really enjoyed The Mistletoe Promise with Jamie King.

I finally downloaded a new book and I am really enjoying it.  It is Elin Hilderbrand’s Here’s to Us.  I am always a fan of her books. They are usually light and easy reads.  Lately I have not wanted to read anything too heavy.  

I am getting ready to update our master bedroom.  It is the one room in our house I don’t love.  I am working with Alex Kaehler again and so excited, she always puts together the best design ideas!! She helped me with my dining room and den and I both spaces so much.  These are two of my inspiration pictures for the bedroom.  

I spied the cutest holiday dress at Anthro last week.  I keep thinking about it, I love the fringe detail at the bottom.

Fringe Dress

I had this red wine recently and it is really good!

Happy Thursday.

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Thoughts For Thursday

Oct 6, 2016

Thank you guys so much for the prayers and well wishes while we wait to see what Hurricane Matthew is gonna do.  I am not gonna lie when they declared a State of Emergency and Mandatory evacuation I felt panicked.  There were long lines at the grocery and gas stations and it just felt eery. Like impending doom or something.   The kids and I got up at 5 yesterday morning and headed to Charlotte.  It took us about an hour longer than usual but we made it.  Matt decided to stay put- he is that crazy guy that will go surf in a hurricane.  But all jokes aside he never leaves during storms.

I mentioned the Marysia sale that is going on right now- there are still some awesome deals left.  Frances Moon’s bikini came and I am dying over how cute it is.  I mean that belly and the black and white floral print it makes me giddy!

Bikini

Our first stop when we got to Charlotte was the mall!  We met my sister for lunch at Arthur’s. Fun fact I worked at Arthur’s when I was in high school.  I love their hot health on pita.  It is basically a salad on toasted pita bread with melted provolone cheese.  It is so good.

After lunch we headed to Old Navy.  I loved this floral dress and the price it is only $26.  I am wearing a small.  It is on the short side so size up a size for a bit longer length.  This would also be great paired with leggings.

Floral Dress

I bought these two vests for Frances Moon. Both are on sale right now.

White Vest | Grey Vest

 I love getting my baby fix with my nephew Rutledge.  He is the sweetest.

I have been reading Truly, Madly Guilty for over a month now.  I usually love Liane Moriarty’s books but man this one has been hard for me to get into.  I hate to say but I am ready to finish it so I can start a new book.  

Two recent OOTD’s this week.  My plaid blouse is currently on sale.  I wear this at least once a week.  I love it paired with jean shorts or jeans.  I am wearing a size small.

Plaid Blouse on sale | Necklace | Jean Shorts | Sandals

When we arrived to Charlotte the weather was cooler than I expected.  I had packed my favorite moto leggings that look like pants but feel like pjs but no long sleeve shirts.  My mom let me borrow this sweater and I loved it so much I promptly ordered it.  It is the perfect length with leggings and great with skinny jeans too.  It also comes in a charcoal color.  My mom’s sweater is an XS and i ordered that size too.  I am wearing a small in the leggings.

Sweater | Leggings | Scarf | Slippers

I don’t drink a ton of red wine but my parents always have the best red wine.  Last night we enjoyed a glass of this red wine from Costco and it was so good!  I highly recommend it.  

The sunrises have been so gorgeous on the way to take Sterling to school- and yes he starts super early we leave the house at 7.

This is a new favorite Fall salad. I ate it three times last week.

Shredded Kale + chopped green apple + chopped white cheddar + crumbled bacon + roasted Brussels sprouts.  I use a green goddess dressing with it that I pick up at a local restaurant Dellz.

Gigi New York just started their Friends and Family Sale.  Use code WEAREFAMILY to save 25% everything. This Cross body is my favorite pick.  I carry mine all the time.  It is the perfect size and it also comes in several other colors.  I have the stone color and it is a really nice neutral.

Cross Body

Two of my favorite Beauty Counter lip colors are back in stock.  They have been sold out because they are so popular.  They are the perfect neutral.   They are great alone or paired together.

Lip Sheer in Terra

Lip Gloss in Dahlia

Saks is running their Friends and Family Event right now.  No code needed most items are 25% off.  I will share more favorites with my Weekend deals.  I just ordered this blouse though I love it.

Off Shoulder Blouse

Stay safe everyone that is dealing with Hurricane Matthew.  I am sending prayers your way. 

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Thoughts For Thursday

Sep 1, 2016

Is everyone getting excited for the long weekend?  I know we are especially to have no school Monday.  Matt has a group of guy friends that come down every year so they are staying at our house and the kid’s and I are packing up and staying at my parent’s condo for the weekend.  I am excited for some pool time and time with my parents.  Tomorrow I will share a list of all the best Labor Day Sales this weekend! 

Monday night Matt got home from work early so we decided to take the kids to the Yacht Club to run around before bed.  We don’t normally do this on a school night but they loved it and we caught a gorgeous sunset.

Sterling got a haircut this week.  What is it about haircuts that makes kids look so grown up??

All the stores are filled with Halloween decorations and it makes my kids so happy.  It is their favorite holiday.  Frances spied this dress at TJMaxx and I couldn’t resist it for her.  I figured even we she wants to be something different for Halloween it would be perfect for our dress-up bin.  Not kidding she wore it for 24 hours and even slept in it:)

Tuesday night my parents invited me dinner at FIG.  Would y’all believe I have lived here for 9 years and never eaten at FIG!?!  My mom and I shared several things : the roasted okra, charred eggplant, lamb gnocchi, and prosciutto and figs.  They were all delicious but the gnocchi was my favorite.

How gorgeous is my mom?  Dad snapped this picture of us right before dinner.

What I wore:

Dress | Purse on sale | Wedges (similar)

Gigi New York is offering 15% off the entire site and free personalization for Labor Day Weekend, no code needed.  You can save $50 on my cross body purse.  I have the stone color but I also love the gray and navy for Fall!  It is a really nice and has plenty of space inside.

Beauty Counter is also running a pretty amazing special this weekend on their Spa Set.  It includes 5 products: the charcoal face mask, nourishing night cream, rose water spray, cleansing wipes, and charcoal cleansing bar.   Until Monday this set is $129, it is originally $179.  It includes so many of my favorites products.  I love the charcoal mask, night cream (I use this everyday), and face wipes.   I also really like the rosewater mist for when I travel.  It is great for dry skin.   It is a great way to try out some new products too!  I am actually thinking of ordering this for my sister and saving it for a Christmas gift while it is on sale. 

Spa Set


Sterling has been begging me to make meatballs so last night I did.  The thing about blogging is I am constantly trying out new recipes so I forget about old favorites.  I blogged about these meatballs about 2 years ago and decided to use the recipe again.  I forgot how damn good these meatballs were.  Both kids scarfed them down and I did too!  I ate mine with zucchini noodles tossed with pesto, the kids ate theirs plain.  This was such a great weeknight dinner I am adding back into our regular rotation.

Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

This tee shirt tunic dress I blogged about a few weeks ago is now out in a gorgeous green color.  When I find something I love I buy it in multiples and this dress was no exception.  I love that is comfortable, super soft and you can machine wash it!  Tee shirt dresses a daily staple for me.  This dress is also cute dressed up with heels but I am normally in flats:)  You can use code DB&DD15 to save 15% off your order, making the dress under $100. I am in a small for those curious about sizing- this would be a great maternity dress too.

Tunic | also in Rust and Black

I am loving this sweater for Fall.  The black would go with so many different bottoms and I love the cut out shoulder detail and slouchy fit.

Sweater

My Dad shared this with me this week and I really loved and wanted to share it on here.

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Thoughts For Thursday

Jun 9, 2016

One week from Saturday we are headed back to St Maarten.  We went last year for 5 days and this year we decided to do a full week.  There was so much we didn’t get to see or do because we were lazy our first few days.  So I want to know from anyone who has traveled to St Maarten what are your favorite spots, restaurants, beaches etc!  We want to see and do it all this time!

Two Recent OOTD’s.

My addiction with off shoulder outfits continues.  I bought this dress on a whim from the Junior’s section and I really like it.  It is lightweight material and I like the looser sleeves. I am wearing a size small in the dress, runs TTS.

Off Shoulders + Tassel Earrings both under $50 + Purse on sale + Sandals

This Equipment Blouse is currently 40% off.  Size down runs on the large side, I am wearing XS.

It also comes in white.

Blouse | Necklace | Purse | Sunglasses | Jean Shorts | Sandals

This picture of Frances Moon makes me smile every time I look at it. I kid you not she accessorized all this by herself down to the phone and purse.   And her sassy stance just makes it even better.  

Romper is Shrimp and Grits Kids

Thanks to the rec from my friend Caycee I ordered these hair vitamins and I really feel like they are working on my hair.  I have been taking them a little over a month and I feel like my breakage is not so bad and they are helping my hair to grow.

Sugarbear Hair Vitamins

I can’t believe Sterling is done with Kindergarten, sniff sniff.  He seems so grown-up all of a sudden.  The good news is he still loves to cuddle and I am soaking up every minute of that.   I am excited for a fun Summer with him.

Selfie in my favorite mirror (from Crate and Barrel) at my parent’s condo.  Plus this tee shirt is on repeat every week. 

Tee Shirt (wearing size 1) + Necklace

I made a spin on my Roasted Veggie Rice Bowls and subbed Quinoa for the rice and they were so good.

For the veggies I did roasted broccoli, sweet potatoes, purple cabbage, and avocado with green goddess dressing.

I love this idea of a hummus salad.  I eat hummus most days for lunch and I want to try this out.

I stopped by the Celadon Warehouse with the kids this week and they had some really cool stuff.  Every Sunday they have a fun Warehouse Event where you can take an additional 20% off prices.  They also have food trucks, jump castles and local vendors!  A fun Sunday activity with or without kids!

The event is at the warehouse not the actual store- the warehouse is located at 2221 Noisette Blvd)

The kids really wanted this bench:)

 and I fell in love with this teak table and stools.

Celadon just revamped their online site too and now anyone can shop not just locals! 

I am obsessed with these Vintage Turkish Yastik Rugs.  

I really want one for our house.

I also love these Charleston glasses.  How cute would these be for entertaining or as a gift? 

Also yes please to these Rebecca Atwood Pillows.

I just downloaded The Nest to read next.  I can’t wait to have some down time to read while on vacation.  These days I have been too tired at night to read more than a couple pages.  I am hoping to read a few books while we are  gone.

Happy Almost Weekend! 

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Thoughts For Thursday

May 5, 2016

Happy Cinco De Mayo!!  Tonight I am headed out to an art show and dinner which will hopefully involve margaritas and a Mexican feast!  

I will be wearing this dress tonight which just happens to be 40% off right now!  I wore it last weekend as well.  It runs on the large side so definitely size down, I am wearing an XS.

Off Shoulder Dress

All dresses at Loft are 40% off.

I ordered this one as well.

Our pool opened up this past weekend and the kids have been so excited to go so I took them Monday after school.  Frances Moon was very excited to get to actually wear her bathing suit somewhere.

Watermelon suit

A few pool essentials.  

Cover-Up | Hat (40% off) | Tote | Flip Flops | One Piece | Sunglasses

We have been dealing with the terrible 2’s hardcore with Frances.  I got this slip from her school this week and could not stop laughing at her favorite activity- of course it involved eating.

We saw the most gorgeous rainbow Tuesday night.  I always think they are a special sign from God.  I had had a particularly rough day so it was a beautiful ending to my day.

Sterling had a school performance this week and he played Humpty Dumpty in a nursery rhymes play.   I could not stop thinking about how fast this year has flown by.  I feel like I was just sitting crying in my car the first day he started kindergarten and now he is almost done.  So bittersweet.   This was us after his play, such a sweet boy.

Oh and my top is a new favorite and only $38.

I have been obsessed with Jennifer Weiner’s books lately.  I finished All Fall Down which I loved and now I am reading Then Came You.  Her characters are always so relatable, she has true talent for writing.

Mara Hoffman is offering 15% off her site with code MOTHERLOVE16. 

This swing dress has been on constant rotation.  It does run on the large side so size down.

This dress is already on sale and you can take additional 15% off, making it almost 50% off.

Tie Back Dress

I made yet another amazing recipe from GP’s cookbook.  I was in such a cooking rut before and her book has really inspired me.  This recipe was the Asparagus Mimosa.

Have an awesome Cinco De Mayo!

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Thoughts For Thursday

Apr 7, 2016

This afternoon I am off to Dallas for the Reward Style Blog conference.  This will be my 3rd year going and I am so excited to see some of my friends from far away.  We only get to see each other once a year so we always have fun!  Nothing better than some girl time, although I am sure I will be missing my kids by the second day!  

I am the worst at packing and always wait til the last minute.  My mom came over last night and tried  to help me pick out outfits.  A few things that made the cut- and those mini bottles are because I am a nervous flyer, it makes me so anxious.

White Blouse (also in black) | Peach Dress | Blue Clutch | Geometric Dress  (on sale)| Stripe Dress | Embroidered Dress |

Necklace | Blush Crossbody | Tassel Earrings | Halter suit | Sunglasses | Wedges | Cover-up

Many of these items are still 25% for the Shopbop Friends and Family Event with code INTHEFAM. 

This week my new pillows for our couch arrived.  They are from Gathered by Lindsey Cheek,  a fabulous little store in Wilmington, NC.  Lindsey and I are instagram friends and I just adore her and her style.  Stay tuned because we have a fun giveaway coming up to win some killer pillows from her shop!

I got my hair highlighted yesterday.  I get so excited about getting my hair done because of the quiet time to sit and read a magazine and chill for 2 hours.  I am still loving my Barrington Tote, it is the perfect size for everyday.

Tote | BR Shoes

I was looking for a quick lunch and my hairdresser recommended Chicken Salad Chick.  I was a little skeptical at first but my lunch was awesome.  I had the pimento cheese and jalapeño chicken salad per his request and it was so delicious.

A few of my purchases from the Shopbop Friends and Family sale arrived yesterday and these are 2 of my favorites.  They both come to under $100 with the discount.  I love the tee so much I ordered a second color.  Sizing wise I am wearing a size 1.

The Great Tee | Necklace

Frances Moon when she dresses herself.  A girl after my heart with the leopard.

Her dress is from Baby Gap

Two new scores from Target for Frances- I mean they both are beyond adorable and under $10!

Bathing suit | Cover-up

I am loving this built in bar with gray cabinets.  May recreate this when we do our addition.

I just downloaded this book to read next.  I have heard such amazing things about it.

Happy Thursday!

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Thoughts For Thursday

Mar 31, 2016

I can’t believe today is the last day of March! This year already seems to be flying by faster than the rest.

We have been enjoying our Spring Break week in Charlotte.  I jump at any chance to spend more time with my family especially my newest nephew, Rutledge. 

Sterling has especially loved holding him and it melts my heart.

How sweet is his little smile??

Wore my floral swing dress for happy hour one night.    It is a great causal dress made out of thick cotton.  I like that it is loose and not clingy at all.  It also comes in a gorgeous dark blue color.  I am wearing a size XS, runs on the large side.  Would also work while pregnant.

Swing Dress

We have been spending a lot of time at Southwark Mall, my favorite spot when I am back in Charlotte.  Enjoying Chick Fila in the food court.  I so wish Charleston had a good mall.

I have been reading Jennifer Weiner’s book, All Fall Down and I am totally sucked into it.  It is about a woman addicted to painkillers.  I always like Jennifer Weiner’s book because all the characters are always so relatable.  She is such a fantastic writer.

 I used a birthday gift card for this blouse, currently 40% off.

I really liked the floral print and smocked style.

Floral Blouse

Sterling and his cousin Finley rocking  their new Dr. Seuss jammies.

Sterling’s PJs | Finley’s PJs (both are on sale)

We all love Mexican Street corn and make it every taco night.  I came across these 2 recipes on Pinterest and can’t wait to try them.

Mexican Street Corn Zucchini

Mexican Street Corn Nachos

We celebrated my birthday while I was home with a lemon raspberry cake from Reids that was amazing!  We usually get their caramel cake but I sampled this lemon one and loved it.

The kids having a picnic in their “secret garden” aka the area where the picked all the flowers off my mom’s bushes.

I stopped in JCrew this week and picked up the best tee shirt.  These are so super soft and come in so many gorgeous colors.

Linen V-Neck Tee

Have a great Thursday!

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Thoughts For Thursday

Feb 4, 2016

Happy Thursday.  I am getting excited for the upcoming weekend for two reasons.  1) We have no real plans which always excites me 2) Super Bowl Sunday.  I am so proud of the Panthers and can’t wait to watch them play while I dominate some yummy food.   If I can get my act together I want to clean out and organize our garage I have been on a roll inside our house cleaning out and want to do the same in the garage.  It feels good to organize and get rid of unnecessary items.

This Flamingo Suit, is quite possibly the most adorable thing ever (well besides the cute baby model wearing it).  The matching purse of course had to happen too.  

Flamingo Swimsuit | Flamingo Purse

Someone told me about this girl’s tote and I tried to find it at Target for Frances but our store didn’t have it in stock.  I did find it online though, reminds me of Mara Hoffman.

I have been loving my Bon Appetite Food Lovers Cleanse Cookbook so much.  I am not following the cleanse per se but just incorporating many of the recipes into our weekly meals.  I loved this Broccoli Quinoa Salad that I made for my lunches this week.

I am working with Alex Kaehler again (she helped decorate our dining room) to spruce up our den.  I am not doing a total overhaul but making some changes.  Many of you have asked about our new rug you have seen in instagram pictures.  It is the antelope rug from Ballard Designs.  I have long admired the Stark version of this rug so when I saw the Ballard Designs one and I had a 20% off coupon it was a done deal.  I LOVE the rug.  Only issue so far is it does shed some which I hope will get better as time goes on.  We are hoping to move the rug that was in our den into our bedroom.

This is a room I have saved for inspiration for our den.

This Free People Dress was one of my favorites from last year so when I saw it was out in two new colors, I knew I needed another one.  I had the red version from last year and wore it often.  I love the loose style and embroidery detail.  For those curious about sizing it does run on the large side.  I have a size small because I was worried XS would be too short.

I am trying to find a few new recipes to try out for The Super Bowl Sunday. These kettle chip crusted poppers are top on my list to try.

How adorable is this gift box my friend Karina at Waffles and Honey put together for Valentine’s Day??  You can choose from 3 different necklace colors: Turquoise, Labradorite or Crystal Quartz.  They all come packaged like this one and would make such a special gift to send to someone. They also come with a handwritten note and are $79.

I came across this picture on Facebook from 4 years ago.  I have a love hate relationship with the Facebook flashback photos, I love to see them but they make me sad how fast time is flying by.  Sterling was such a little nugget here, hard to believe he is turning 6 in 12 days.

A few new lip colors I am loving:

Estee Lauder Lip Gloss in Passionate Fuchsia | Aerin Lipstick in Rose | Aerin Lipstick in Coral

I just ordered this BB Dakota white off shoulder dress for the Summer.  I just can’t get enough of the off shoulder look and I always love a white dress.  It is a fun backdrop for jewelry and accessories. I hope the quality is good as sometimes BB Dakota is hit or miss.  I will report back!

Have a great Thursday.

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Thoughts For Thursday

Dec 3, 2015

Hello Thursday!  

First of all I am so excited because tomorrow I am headed to Palmetto Bluff with two of my best friends.  We are having a fun girls weekend for Caycee’s birthday.  Toyota is giving us a Camry to test drive for the weekend which should be fun.  I am sure I will be posting many pictures from our weekend, so follow along on instagram @snoopnattynat

I am so happy Girlfriends’ Guide to Divorce started back this week.  I LOVE that show.

I got on the ball this year and decorated early for Christmas,  We have so much going on the next few weeks it is nice to have our decorations up and to enjoy them!  Our elf Elfie is back too:)

The glass trees are by Simon Pearce

Tis the season for baking.  I can’t wait to whip up some of my favorite oreo brownies for our friends.  I am thinking this year I may even buy the holiday oreos with the red filling for a more festive look. You can see my recipe HERE

Some of my Black Friday purchases have started to arrive and I am loving them.  These Vince booties make me swoon.  They are still on sale 50% off, not quite as cheap as when I bought them but still a great deal.

This Joie sweater was another Black Friday purchase.  I plan to pack it this weekend for my girl’s trip.  It is so soft and I really like the frayed edge detail. It is currently 40 % off.

Joie Jacket

I tried to take a Christmas Card picture of the kids this week and let me tell you it was like pulling teeth.  I am starting to fear we may not get a good picture.  Although part of me is very tempted to use a crying picture.

Frances Moon’s Dress is Little English

I have started making some progress in Sterling’s room.  His new bedding arrived as did his print for over the bed.  I let him choose his bedding and picture and I was relieved it was something I actually liked- haha. 

His surf picture is from Minted our new go to source for art.  Until tonight at midnight you can take 25% off with code CM2015. 

Next up I need to paint his room.  Any suggestions for a good light gray paint color?  I probably won’t paint til after the holidays but want to find the perfect color.

Anchor Bedding | Surf Photo | Shark Doll | Lamp similar

Rodney loves to sleep on our bed pillows.  I busted him the other morning like this. 

Frances Moon’s favorite thing to do in the morning is sit at my vanity and put on lipstick.  Yesterday she insisted she needed shades on too.

word.

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Thoughts For Thursday

Oct 15, 2015

Happy Thursday!  One more day til the weekend! 

I am especially excited because Charleston is supposed to have some cooler temps!  Matt and I were just saying we may have to light up our fire pit and sit by it one night for happy hour.

I could not stop laughing at this picture of Frances Moon with her book bag.  It’s a big as her.

Wearing Tea Collection dress | Glitter Toms | Backpack

A gorgeous new boutique opened here in Charleston on King Street called Beckett.  I stopped in yesterday and was really impressed.  They carried several lines I had never heard of but loved and many favorites.  They had so many great classic pieces.  Plus the interior design was beautiful.

If you are in Charleston looking for a good lunch spot check out 5 Loaves.  They have a location downtown and in Mt Pleasant.  I always forget about this place but I took the kids to eat lunch here Monday and it was so good.  I love their mushroom quinoa salad paired with half a sandwich.

I love this Free People Blouse so much I bough the white version too.

Today is the last day to get it 25% off.  I am wearing XS.  Use code INTHEFAM25.

 In case you are wondering what I bought from the Shopbop sale, here it is:

T-Bags Dress | D.Ra Blouse (in yellow)

 Free People Blouse | Splendid Booties

I also wanted to mention my Mara Hoffman Sleeveless dress is now back in stock in the grey color.

I am wearing XS.  It is a great year round dress.  25% off until tonight:)

The new Thug Kitchen Cookbook just came out and it is awesome.  I flipped through mine last night and marked so many recipes I want to make.   Lots of good snack food and party grub which I love.

Speaking of books I just finished the Luckiest Girl Alive and it was so good.  One of the best books I have read in awhile.  Thank you to all who recommended it to me.  What should I read next?

I snapped this picture of the kids last night before bed. They were being so sweet just giggling and hugging.

Wine with a view.

 In case you are wondering who takes my pictures on the blog sometimes- meet my neighbors Rick and Gary.  We just adore them:)  We had them over for Happy hour last night and a golf cart ride.  They specialize in wedding photography but also do kids and family pictures too!  

My newest Obsession is homemade granola.  It is so much better than store bought.  I will share my recipe tomorrow!

Truth.

Sterling is always brutally honest with me:)

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Thoughts For Thursday

Jul 16, 2015

A few weeks ago we did a photo shoot with Pink Chicken, one of my favorite kids lines.  They asked Frances Moon to be their model for the Fall line coming out in 2016.  I was ecstatic because I just adore their line.  The photos won’t be released til next year when the clothes come out but I had to share a few photos we took of Frances and Henry at the end.  They were rewarded with lollipops for their hard work.

I wanted to share two recent purchases I am loving.  Both are under $100 too.

This Vince Camuto Blouse has become such a favorite I am considering ordering another color.  It is great because you can wear if off shoulder or pulled up.  Runs on the large side, definitely size down.  I am in a size xs.  It comes in 6 different colors.

Vince Camuto Blouse

also wearing DL1961 Shorts | Gigi Olivia Tote | Sam Edleman Flats | Ray-Ban Glasses

Here is a view of it on my shoulders. 

Frances was loving her Jeni’s ice cream:)

Second favorite outfit is this Topshop Dress.  It is so comfortable.  Plus I love the fringe + embroidery detail.  This also runs on the large side.  It is loose and would be fabulous pregnant.

Topshop Dress

The Nordstrom sale is still going strong.  I wanted to share a few beauty favorites on sale.

This PMD machine is amazing.  The machine was made to replicate the treatment used for microdermabrasion by using the same aluminum oxide crystals on spinning discs.   It slightly suctions your skin and it feels really weird at first.  I swear by mine and I use it about once a week.   It tightens your skin, helps remove dead skin, and smooths your fine lines.    It is normally $179 but now it is $106.  

PMD- Personal Microderm Device

My other top 10 beauty picks from the sale.

The Nest Candles never go on sale, I had to treat myself to a set of them!

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I read Elin Hilderbrand’s, The Rumor at the beach and Jane Green’s Beach House.  Both were such good reads.  I think I read each book in 2 days, the characters definitely suck you in.  I recommend both, although I think I may have liked The Rumor a bit more.

Matt and I just booked a trip to New York City next month and I am so excited.  I have not been to the city in probably 6 years.  Would love to know any favorite shops, restaurants, or things to see/do while we are there.

 I am totally obsessed with this chocolate.  If you have not tried it you need to.  They just came out with a new flavor that has cinnamon toast crunch mixed in the chocolate.  I have not seen it yet but when I do I am buying it.  I purchased my bars at World Market and Starbucks, not sure what other retailers carry them.

Grilled Lettuce.  I am thinking this needs to happen in my life.  I have never grilled lettuce before but I keep seeing recipes of it and now I want to try it.  I will try and recreate a recipe soon and share!

We had our monthly girl’s supper club last night and this is what I wore.  This is the one dress I purchased from the Nordstrom Anniversary sale.  I figured I could wear it now and into Fall with tights and booties.  Runs TTS.

Alice and Olivia Geo Dress

Thursday Vibes.

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Thoughts For Thursday

May 14, 2015

This week it has been hotter than hot here.  It has me a little worried that it is already so hot in May.  Makes me wonder our Summer will entail.  Oh, and my car AC stopped working yesterday- perfect timing:)

Run don’t walk to your Rite Aid and buy this face oil.  It is about $20 and works wonders.  I apply it in the morning before anything else.  Vitamin C is so good for your skin and I swear my skin looks brighter and fresher.

I ordered a bikini from a new to me line called Triangl Swim.  The suits are made out of neoprene and fit really well.  A few of you wanted to know about sizing.  I ordered a medium in both the top and bottom and found them pretty TTS.  The top fits me perfectly and offers so much support.  The bottoms are a touch skimpy for me (I am pretty grandma when it comes to bikinis) but they fit fine otherwise.  I love the bright colors.  Compared to other swim suits their prices are not bad either.  I like that they are made out of thicker neoprene material,  I feel like it almost sucks you in.

Aqua Punch Lily Bikini

I just finished two easy reads if you are looking for something lighter to read.

I have become addicted to Jane Green’s books.  They always suck you right in and have a great story line.  Amy is just hilarious and so was her book.

I saw this palm print blouse in the Nordstrom catalog and quickly ordered it.  I love a good Palm 

Print.  It runs on the large side though so order down.  I am wearing an XS.  It is light weight and fully lined.

Palm Print Blouse | Shorts are older version | Shoes on sale (only $50 in some colors)

The earrings Hyla was sweet enough to send me, check out her site if you have not.   She makes some really beautiful jewelry.

 You can wear it off shoulder or up on both shoulders and it looks cute either way.

My good friend Ann just painted the most beautiful paintings for beside our bed.  I am going to frame them in a thin floating gold frame and then they will flank each side of our bed.  I am so excited they are going to look awesome!  You can check out Ann’s work HERE and she takes custom orders too.

I just downloaded the 7 minute workout app and I have vowed to do it everyday til our vacation.  I mean I can spare 7 minutes a day right?  The app is free and I have heard some rave reviews.

I am on 3 day and not gonna lie I am sore, so it must be working some I hope:)

Two new songs added to my running playlist that I am addicted to.  I could listen to Vance Joy all day and I love me some Britney.

The sunrise I caught on Monday morning was so gorgeous.  Loving my morning runs and proud of myself I can now run 3.5 miles without stopping- this is big for me as I am no runner.  My goal is to get up to 4 miles about 4 times a week.

How amazing are these stairs?  If we end up doing an addition here this is what I would do leading up to the kids playroom.

Totally making this smoothie for me and the kids from Creme de la Crumb 

1 C frozen pineapple, 1/2 med banana, 1/2 C crushed ice, 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt, 1 1/2 C skim milk OR coconut milk.

 

Happy Thursday

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Thoughts For Thursday

Mar 5, 2015

Yay one more day til the weekend!!  

Currently on my mind.

The Bachelor.  Lets discuss who is going to get the final rose.  I feel like Whitney is probably going to win and I like her but something makes me feel like Becca is a better match for him.  It concerns me a bit she has never been in love but he seems really into her.  I can also picture her being happy on the farm.  Lets be real it would be hard to live there, no restaurants, no grocery store or anything nearby to do??  Not sure I could do it- heck I know I could not live there!

Thank you for the book suggestions, I just finished The Girl on The Train and wow I loved it!!  Kind of similar to Gone Girl, I could not stop reading it.

If you have not read it you must!

Next up I happened to find Diane Von Furstenberg’s Book at the library.  Can’t wait to read about one of my favorite fashion designers!

My Baublebar earrings arrived this week and I love them.  I was looking for earrings that could be great for day or night.

They are such a steal for 2 cute pairs of earrings!

|| Abstract Stud Set

Frances Moon had her 15 month check up this week and my girl is growing like a weed.  She was 95TH percentile + for everything.

Frances’ dress is one of my favorite for Summer!  

Embroidered Dress (on sale)

I love to watch my kids sleep.  Is that weird?  I can not go to bed at night until I have walked in and watched them both for a few minutes.  I saw Sterling like this one night this week and it was too sweet.  He had taken Frances Moon’s baby dolls and tucked them into bed (in an old baublebar box).  He has the biggest heart.

I have been seeing so many cute things at F21 lately so I decided to try my luck and order a few things and  I LOVE them.  I have hit or miss luck at F21 but both of these are awesome buys!  They look and feel way more expensive than they are!  I am wearing a small in both for size reference.

and ignore the wrinkles they just came out of the mail bag:)

|| Embroidered Chambray Dress

||  Embroidered Peasant Blouse

also comes in white.  I actually just ordered the white too I loved the navy so much.  I swear they look like some $200 blouses I have tried on but they are under $30!


Tie Dye Cover-Up Cover-up

Actually found this on the store but it is online too. This reminded me a lot of Missoni plus the fabric felt great and its under $20!


I forgot how much I love tomato pie.  I made two this week one for us and one for my friend Ashley who just moved here.  Tomato Pie is one of my favorite Southern Comfort foods.  This picture was right before the final layer of cheese and before I baked them!

You can see my recipe HERE.

I have really enjoyed tequila lately.  I still love my wine but lately I swear all the sugar in it and the tannins make me feel worse the next day.  Good tequila does not do that to me.  This is a new small batch tequila I am loving that was actually aged in bourbon barrels.  It is so good!

and how gorgeous is the view from the deck of my parents condo here??

We had our monthly girls Supper Club last week and this is what I wore.  I love our girls super club.  We each switch off and host once a month at our houses and cook for the girls.  It is always a good time.

Blouse | Jeans | Necklace similar 50% off (similar same brand) | Purse

The purse and jeans are part of the Shopbop event so you can save!

Charleston Friends, don’t miss out Barbara Cobb is hosting a trunk show today downtown!

She makes the absolute cutest beach hats not to mention the quality is fantastic.

Check out me and Frances Moon’s hat that Barbabra made for us- the fun part is you can design the hats.  I picked the colors and patterns.

We started House of Cards Season 3 and are 5 episodes in, anyone else watching?  So far I feel like it is not as good as the first two seasons but it may get better.

I am thinking for meatless Monday next week I will make these Cauliflower Rice Cups.  I think they look so good!  They are drizzled with Srirachia Peanut Sauce- yes please!

Thursday’s Wisdom.

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Thoughts For Thursday

Feb 5, 2015

Lots going on in my mind.

Can we discuss the Bachelor?  Monday nights are so good.  Kelsey is plain cray cray and is the story about her husband dying even true??  I get a weird vibe from her.  Princess Jasmine aka virgin Kim Kardashian want to be needs to get the boot.  So far my two favorites are Whitney (being my first favorite) and Kaitlyn.  and how awkward was the sex therapist date??  I almost had the change the channel I felt so uncomfortable.

I made my first purchase from Topshop.  I ordered these adorable Palm Print white shorts. They are even cuter in person.  Can’t wait to wear them over my bathing suits this Summer.  They are precious on.

|| Palm Print Shorts

I had a few girls over for an impromptu girls night Tuesday with wine and apps.  Matt often works late Monday and Tuesday nights so it was the perfect night to have some company.  I stopped by Goat Sheep Cow quite possibly the cutest meat, cheese, and wine store and picked up some aweseome cheeses and meats.  They were amazng so much better than the grocery store selection.

 That Banshee Chardonnay is one of my favorites!

We had way too much fun chatting, trying on clothes, and laughing!

I have had a gift card to ASOS for almost a year now.  That site stresses me out.  There are so many cute items but so many items to navigate through to find the cute stuff.  But damn if I was going to let my $50 gift card go to waste.  I settled on a romper something I have been wanting but can’t find a cute one.  I figured its not my money anyways so I will give the romper a try.   Ya’ll this romper is adorable and the best one I have tried yet.  She is a keeper.  Plus under $50. I highly recommend.  For those curious I am in a size 6, I try to size up in Rompers I hate them too tight.

|| Woodstock Romper

So our kitchen was grouted this week!!  A few final things have to be finished but here is a sneak of the grouted backsplash.

This picture of the kids after church melts my heart.

New favorite lip color, Mac in Sweetie.  It is a great everyday color.

and it is like half the price of most expensive make-up brands.

 Old Navy Spring line for the kids is good.  I am kind of obsessed with this top Frances Moon is wearing.

 Linen Blend Top | Leggings

 Loving these short and long embellished beach dresses.  Can’t decide if I want the long or short version.  This is by the same brand that made the fringe/beaded back dress I mentioned last week which btw now comes in pink, yellow and black!  They make some killer beach wear!

White | Turquoise

Long White | Long Turquoise

 I have been taking shots of this apple cider vinegar nightly and I swear it helps digestion issues and weight gain.  Anyone else do this?  I always hear how great this particular apple cider is.

Organic Apple Cider Vinegar

Enjoy your Thursday.

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Thoughts For Thursday

Oct 30, 2014

Lets dish.

I made a quick trip home to Charlotte this week and stopped in West Elm.  I just love that store.  I wanted to actually look at the chandeliers in person before I bought one and I am so glad I did.  I went with a completely different one than the two I was considering.  The one waterfall one I like most was actually plastic not glass and I didn’t like that.  I wanted basically everything in the store, I so wish Charleston would get a West Elm Store.  Such great home and entertaining stuff.

 If you need lighting West Elm is having 20% off all lighting right now.  I went with this Chandelier for my dining room and I hope to install it this weekend!  I would have never considered this one because online it looked so small but it was actually a perfect size in person and the price is incredible. Plus I loved the modern feel of it.  I went with large globe bulbs, not the frosted ones.

|| Mobile Pendnant

 I also snagged this Throw.  It is so gorgeous in person.  All throws are also 20% off.

|| Knitted Sequin Throw

I stopped in JCrew as well this week, I always love to browse their new arrivals in person.  Loved both of these blouses.  I ended up buying the Tassel Trim Blouse in the black color- it runs on the large side, I am wearing a size 2.  Use code STYLETREAT to get 25% off your purchase.

Shadow Diamond Blouse | Tassel Trim Blouse

I also loved it in the Royal Blue Color.  Such a gorgeous blouse and it comes to $75 with the discount.

 I have been using my Tata Harper Resurfacing Mask for almost 2 months now and I have to say it is my favorite mask.  I can really tell a difference in my skin.  I use it about 2-3 times a week for 30 minutes.  It gets really tight while you are wearing it which I love, makes me feel like it is tightening and smoothing my skin.  I highly recommend it and it lasts for awhile I have hardly put a dent in mine, a little goes a long way.

|| Tata Harper Mask

I just downloaded The New Shopaholic book to read.  I always love the books in this series such a light easy read.

 

I also just picked up my girl Ina’s new cookbook, Make It Ahead.  I own all  her cookbooks and they never disappoint, always my favorite go-to cookbooks.  Anyone else notice how good her skin always looks? 

How great does this spin on Avocado Toast look?  It is called Autumn Toast and it is Avocado, Pears, Blue Cheese, and nuts. Yes Please!

Two new wine recs one red, one white both delicious.

My friend Sarah at Social Dress Shop is having a major sale right now to make way for new merchandise. You can take 40% off the entire site with code SALE40.   If you don’t own a Pink Stitch Maxi Dress, it is a great time to buy one, it will be like $50 with the discount. I love mine.

My favorites:

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If you still want a pair of Rag and Bone Newbury Booties, this style was just marked down on Shopbop.  I love the gray color.

|| Newbury Booties

and this quote, its just so true.

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Thoughts for Thursday

Sep 11, 2014

 So we are still dealing with the hole in our ceiling turns we need to replace the whole main AC pipe in our house, le sigh things are never as they seem.  It’s not just a hole it is a whole other problem.  But since we are already having work done and the ceilings are rotten and need to be repaired and repainted I have decided I want to knock down the cabinet between our kitchen and dining room.  

 In our small house it will really open things up.  I plan to hang two of these pendants where the cabinets used to be.  It will be a cheap fix that will really open up our space.  

  I just can’t decide between the milk finish and the clear finish.

|| West Elm Pendants ||

The Neiman Marcus Beauty event is going on right now.  

If you spend $125 you get a cute tote filled with samples and if you spend $350 you get a leather cosmetic case as well.  I have been wanting to try Tata Harper Products forever thanks to my girl Jess’s Blog, Bare Beauty, so I am finally ordering them to try!!  I decided on the Regenerating Cleanser and Resurfacing Mask and already placed my order.

Regenerating Cleanser | Resurfacing Mask

and best part if you spend $175 on Tata Harper Products you get to try these three products for free!

This Summer I have been all about rose and white wines but I am finally starting to get back in the mood for some reds.  This red wine is called the Riddler and is excellent.  It is a blend and really delicious.

and don’t laugh but that was my dinner Tuesday night- when Matt works late I don’t cook.  The okra and wine were a pretty good combo.  If you liked roasted okra I used the New York Times recipe and it was great.

Let’s chat about Britney Spears new lingerie line.  The pieces actually are kind of pretty.  I heard she is back in the studio making a new album and that makes me very happy.  I want my girl to get back where she used to be.

I am so ready for Fall weather.  This looks like the perfect cozy cardigan that would go with everything.  Love both the colors.  I really considering it to add to my closet.  I picture it with leggings, jeans, dresses anything!

|| 525 America Cardigan

 This jacket blew my mind and the fact that it is from Banana Republic.  They are stepping up their game for Fall.  I love the style and color and if you use the code BRYAY40 you can get 40% off any purchase.  I am ordering the jacket to try and will report back!  It is online only not in stores, shop all the other new Fall stuff here.

|| Wool Drape Jacket

I know I am way ahead if the game but when I saw this Strawberry Costume at TJmaxx I knew I needed it for Frances.  Luckily it fit her and she was just as excited about it.  Tell me that is not the cutest Strawberry you have ever seen??

Halloween is Sterling’s favorite holiday and while it is not mine I am learning to embrace it.  I love these star pumpkins.  I want two for my front porch.

|| Star Pumpkins ||

I normally just use the plastic pumpkin bins for Sterling but I am thinking about investing in some cute ones this year for he and Frances, these are only $11 right now and I love that you can personalize them.

|| Pumpkin Basket

and some eye candy for your Thursday. 

Why do I love Zac Efron so much??  

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Thoughts For Thursday

Feb 6, 2014

Happy Thursday Friends. I keep meaning to mention how much I loved everyone’s Mommy Confessions on Friday, they made my day. Not gonna lie I have gone back and read them several times and they all had me smiling and laughing. Us moms gotta stick together!! 

First off today I want to mention the amazing Kim Keller, she is a designer out of Charleston but has an online Etsy shop so anyone anywhere can shop her designs.  Her Etsy Shop is Keller Creative Designs and she designs everything from invitations, to birth announcements,  to wedding invitations.  She can really create anything you want her to.  Kim was sweet enough to design me some note cards after Frances Moon was born and I adore them.  She does custom work as well as premade items so definitely check her site out HERE.  She has graciously offered a 10% discount for you guys with code LOVE10 good for the month of February.

You can email Kim at kim@keller-creative.com for pricing and design questions.  I highly recommend her!
See how beautiful my note cards turned out- I just love them!!

  . 

I have been organizing  our house like crazy, I always do this post New Year.

 I was working in Frances Moon’s room yesterday and her swimsuit collection makes me very happy. Girl swimsuits are more fun than boy ones!

Burberry | Baby Gap | Marysia Swim | Baby Gap

Per Amy’s request (my girl always has great book recs) I have been reading Jodi Picoult’s Keeping Faith.  It is so good and thought provoking.   I can’t wait to see how it ends.  If you need a new book check this one out!

 We actually turned on the tv last night for a little while and watched Andy Sambergs show Brooklyn Nine-Nine.  It was actually really funny and I would totally watch it again.  Check it out if you have not yet!  Is it weird I have a crush on Andy?  I have a thing for funny guys….


I am so darn ready for Summer.  I have a real weakness for cover-ups.  I can’t stop thinking about this one from Anthro.
|| Waverly Tunic ||

 If you need pants for your little guys, these colored skinny jeans from the Gap are my absolute favorite for Sterling.  They fit so well.  Nothing I hate more than baggy pants on little boys.  I just ordered him the terra coral color.  I think they are gonna look awesome with navy + white.  I also snagged this major cute dress for Frances.

|| Colored Skinny Jeans ||

We had our monthly girls Supper Club last night and I wore my Current/Elliot Dress.  I told ya’ll it was the perfect tee shirt dress, shop it here and here

If you like to cook you must check out my friend Liz’s blog.  She just started it and has the most amazing recipes.  It is called Beets and Bratwurst.  Not only is she an amazing cook but she is a wonderful writer and always gives me the best wine recs.  An all around stellar gal.

I can’t wait to make this pork and black bean chili.  Check out her blog HERE and follow along her culinary adventures!

Lastly, a huge thank you to Sara at A Dose of Pretty who redid my blog design for me.  I have worked with her the last two re-dos and she does amazing work!!  Email her at adoseofprettyblog@gmail.com if you need blog help!

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Thoughts For Thursday

Jan 23, 2014

It’s Thursday only one more day til the weekend!! We have a birthday party and plans to grill some burgers!! 

I keep forgetting to share this awesome Rebecca Taylor shirt I got for Christmas. I saw it online on major sale (like under $100 unheard of for Rebecca Taylor) and had to share!  Also available Here in a different pattern.

|| Rebecca Taylor Kaleidoscope Print Silk Tee ||

 Have you seen the Paddington Bear line out for Baby Gap?  It is so cute!

A few of my baby girl favorites, the boy stuff is pretty darn cute too.  The red embroidered dress is on its way to Frances Moon, could not resist.
ROMPER | TULIP DRESS | PONCHO | EMBROIDERED DRESS | SWEATSHIRT DRESS

baby gap

Do yourself a favor and please go buy these Ghirardelli Intense Dark Sea Salt Soiree chocolates.  They are so good.  The Intense Dark Toffee is also incredible.

I just finished reading the book Brain on Fire.  It was a crazy interesting read about this New York Journalist Suzanne Cahalan,  who suddenly finds herself physically and mentally ill and no doctors can figure out what is wrong with her.  I am still thinking about it.

I can’t get this Marysis swimsuit out of my head.  You all know my goal to treat myself to one nice swimsuit after I lose the baby weight.  I think this string bikini may be the one.
I really like this strapless one alot but I am just not sure how a
bandeau top is gonna work with my mom boobs if you know what I mean.  I
think I may need the support from a string bikini to lift the girls.
||MARYSIA NOLITA STRING BIKINI || ANTIBES SCALLOPED BIKINI

How cute will they look with Frances’s mini bathing suit?

Our annual Blurb Book came in the mail this week and I am so in love with it.  Every year in January I make a soft cover book with all our instagram pictures since I never print them.  I just love looking back at them all!

I have been on a major health kick wanting to shed the last of my baby weight which aint creeping.   This Quinoa Chopped Veggie Salad that was on Camille Styles is next on my list to make, how gorgeous is it?

Lastly has anyone watched Rich Kids of Beverly Hills??  Its so embarrassing but of course it sucked me in last night.  All the stuff they said just made me cringe, their parents must be so proud.

The other night as I rocked Frances to sleep, this quote came to mind.  It is so beautifully true it was a perfect moment- that I of course tried to capture:)

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Thoughts For Thursday

Nov 14, 2013

Tonight my friend WayWay is hosting her first art show at Novel. She is super talented.  I can promise you, you will love her artwork.  Her Dad is also displaying some of his nude works as well.  Locals you should stop by and if you can’t make it, her artwork will be up thru the end of November!

Lately I feel like a ticking time bomb.  It is crazy not knowing when this baby will make her arrival.  I was so excited for the cooler temps here this week.  I finally busted out my BB Dakota Jacket and love it!!  Unfortunately it is sold out but there is an almost identical version HERE.  I paired it with my Missoni Infinity Scarf another favorite.

I have two new favorite food Obsessions:  Haagen Dazs Peanut Butter Pie Ice Cream and Sabra Jalapeno Hummus.  Both are amazing,  try them I promise you will love them!

Please tell me I am not the only fan of Sam Champion on Good Morning America.  I adore him and he is one of the main reasons I watch GMA- that and the fact I can’t stand Matt Lauer- so no more Today show for me.  Anyways some pictures were released from his honeymoon and who knew he was hiding such a ripped body under his suits!!

 I am not sure I am a loafer gal but part of me wants to try them out they look so comfy and would be so cute for weekend wear.  I would never spend alot on pair since I am not 100% sold on them but how amazing are these two pairs and they are only $25!!

|| Globetrotter Loafers ||


Do your kids love the small grocery carts at the store?  I hate that they even make them it makes my grocery shopping take so much longer. Sterling never wants to ride in a cart any more- I can’t even lure him with the rocket ship one.  This is him yesterday with his cart filled with junk food and ready to pay with his credit card:)  Plus we always end up with random stuff he throws in his cart like the crazy straws below.

Normally for Thanksgiving Matt cooks the turkey and I do all the sides.  I love cooking and trying out new sides.  This year since I will either have a super newborn or if she is late possibly be in the hospital over Thanksgiving I decided to delegate dishes to our families to make and I am just making a salad.  I think I am going to try out this Chopped Kale and Collard Greens Salad. 


I really want this gold flatware from West Elm.  I have seen it styled on so many tables and it looks gorgeous!  Right now it is on sale too…..
|| Gold Flatware ||

Ok that is all I have for today!

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Thoughts For Thursday

Aug 29, 2013

Happy Thursday Friends. I am so excited because my whole family gets in town tomorrow and we head for our week long family vacay Saturday. This year we are just headed to Isle of Palms, a quick drive for us. As close as we live to Isle of Palms I never venture over that way so I can’t wait to try out some restaurants and shop over there- any locals send me recs! 

If you follow me on Instagram you already saw these two dresses but I had to share because they are both fabulous and a great deal.  Both are not maternity but work well with a bump.

[Forever 21 Southwest Shift Dress] 

I bought a size Medium for those curious.  Not pregnant I would have bought a small but I wanted room to wear it for awhile.


[Zara Floral Neoprene Dress]

I got in small in this dress.  It is super stretchy.  However not sure I will still be able to wear it nine months pregnant but for now it works.  I love this dress so much!

Have you heard of the candy line DELISH?  Well it is incredible.  Mom and I found it Walgreens and promptly went back for more.  Highly recommend.

Per several recommendations I started reading Marcus Samulesson’s Memoir,  Yes Chef.   It is such a good read and a great insight into the food industry.  Any books I should download for our beach trip next week?  I usually read 3-4 books on our beach trips!

In the past week, I have made Gwennie’s Roasted Cauliflower and Chick Peas Recipe.  It is insanely good.  It is from her cookbook, Its All Good.  I have to say I have been very impressed with both her cookbooks, all the recipes I have tried have been really good.


 As if I needed another reason to shop, ShopBop just marked down sale items even more.  Check out the sale HERE.  I have been eyeing this Joie top forever and now it is 40% off.  I love the blush pink color, but the spicy orange would be cute for fall.  I have this Joie Dress and have loved it this summer, it is super lightweight and comfy,  now on sale too.
{Joie Keannate Blouse}

I am tempted to snag this tie dye Joie Dress too because it could totally be worn into the Fall with a blazer or leather jacket!  It is 40% off too!  Good deals to be found HERE.
{Joie Fori Dress}

How cute are these cookies for the Holidays?  I am always trying to think of cute ways to package goodies for the holidays and love this!  Would also be cute as a party favor.

Pretty Please do me a favor and go vote for my friend Julia Ryan (aka Pawleys Island Posh) to win the Serena and Lily Room Makeover.  Her little girl Wells so deserves this!  You can vote HERE, it takes like two seconds.  and if you feel crazy you can vote once an hour up to 10 times a day.  Help my good friend out!

Have a good Thursday!
xoxo

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Thoughts For Thursday

Jun 27, 2013

Happy Thursday, I can’t even believe this is the last weekend in June. This Summer is flying by. I know alot of people don’t like Summer because their kids are out of school but I honestly love it. I love hitting up the pool and spending time with my little man with no real schedule.   Today we are off to Charlotte to celebrate my Dad’s Birthday.

Yesterday while browsing at TJMaxx I dropped my IPhone, now I have dropped my IPhone a million times but this time the screen shattered- ugh what do I do?  Can the screen be replaced?  It actually still works so currently I am just living with it as is but if it gets worse it may be a problem. 


 If you live in Charleston you really need to hit up the TJMaxx in Mount Pleasant they had some great stuff- like this Pucci Cover-up.


Two things that I didn’t snag but someone else should are this DVF Dress and Nanette Leopore Maxi.
You are welcome ladies, some great finds at TJMaxx.

Speaking of other fabulous deals today is the last day to take advantage of ShopBop’s extra 25 % off all sale items.  There are some amazing deals to be had.

This Tibi Blouse was my pick,  but wishing I had snagged these Rag and Bone Boots and JBrand Jeans as well.

Checkout the sale HERE and use code EXTRA25 when you check out!

Ok and one last deal, how great is this Maxi Dress?  Caycee keeps raving about the juniors department at Nordstroms for Maxi dresses and I have to say they have some really cute dresses for great prices.   Most are around $50.   Love this one so much, hoping to check it out in the store this weekend while I am home.

{Fire Print Maxi}

Yesterday I ate lunch at The Butcher and Bee,  it is really one of my favorite lunch spots in Charleston.  Their menu is so innovative and tasty.  I had the fried eggplant sandwich with hummus and it was out of this world good.  I also had a side of Kale Slaw that I demolished before the photo, highly recommend!  They change their menu frequently which I love, there is always something new to try!

We finally got our couch back after having it recovered and to say I am excited is an understatement.   It was this horrible gold color before that did not match anything plus it was covered in stains from Sterling.   I picked out a light neutral and I am really loving it, it made such a big difference in our den.

 We have implemented a new no eating on the couch rule to try and keep it clean this time- wish us luck!

Kim Zolick is pregnant again.  I swear she must be the most fertile woman alive- and maybe she really is only 30,  I still have a hard time believing that.  I am a little ashamed to admit I actually like her spin off Reality Show.

I am so ordering Sterling these Glow in the dark pajamas.  How cool is that for a kid?  Sterling is all about bringing flashlights to bed so I know he will love these PJ’s!

{Glow in Dark PJS}

Speaking of my little man for as crazy as the age three is he has been a real sweetheart lately.  So cuddly and needy.  He always wants me to hold him and snuggle.  I swear he knows his days of being an only child are numbered.  I couldn’t help but capture this sweet moment.


Have a great Thursday!
xoxo

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Thoughts For Thursday

May 23, 2013

You might have noticed my blog got a little makeover.  I have to give Sara at A Dose of Pretty big props.  I am so thrilled with what she did.  You might remember awhile back I blogged about my “Me” page she helped me create.  I loved it so much I knew she would give my blog a fabulous facelift.  I could not be happier with the look.  I wanted a more streamlined and simple look and that is just what she gave me.  Sara was wonderful to work with!! If you need any tweaks big or small on your blog you must email Sara at adoseofprettyblog@gmail.com.

Lately I have become obsessed with finding this Tibi dress from last year.  Is it not the most perfect maternity dress?  I have scoured ebay and online and can’t find it.  Anyone have one they want to sell me or let me borrow??  I have two weddings this Summer it would be perfect for.

If you have not tried these glazed nuts
you must.  It saves so much time from making your own.  My mom bought some
while I was home and we had them on a roasted beet salad it was so
good.  Beware they are addictive though!

I recently devoured the new Vogue.  I really enjoyed the article on Kate Upton. She is so gorgeous and yep she says her boobs are real- lucky girl.

While I was home last weekend I finally bit the bullet and bought some maternity jean shorts.  My regular ones were just getting too snug and uncomfortable.  Is it just me or do maternity stores suck?  I hate them almost as Babies R Us.  I will say Destination Maternity/Pea in a Pod in Charlotte had a great selection of designer shorts and jeans- the only maternity items I like to splurge on.  I tried on every single brand of shorts and chose JBrand.  They are awesome.  I liked them better than the other brands because they had side panels and not the huge thing that goes over your belly.  I might even want to wear these not preggo they are so comfy.

{J BRAND MATERNITY SHORTS}

I wrote about the JCrew sale yesterday and last week I ordered this fab dress (already on sale) that just came in the mail.  I see myself living in this all Summer.  Very accommodating for a belly.  Also comes in white which I love too.  It is a bit sheer, so I would wear a slip underneath.  I am not wearing a slip in picture just to give you an idea of sheerness.

{SHEER COTTON BACK DRESS}

I picture styling it similar to this and rocking it all summer.

How amazing is this hot pink lacquered bar area.  I am swooning.

I hope everyone has a great Memorial Weekend.  We are off to Charlotte again to spend time with my parents while Matt has a Bachelor Party at our house- 6 guys in our house.  I am scared of what I will come home to Monday!  I keep telling myself they are grown men not fraternity guys but you just never know with guys!

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Thoughts For Thursday

Apr 11, 2013

Do you ever feel like when you get back in town from a trip it takes you a week to get back in your routine?  I am still doing laundry, cleaning house, catching up on emails and work and it all seems to never end!  I am struggling on the blog front coming up with interesting stuff to write about so if you guys have any topics you want me to write about leave a comment with an idea or email me!  Today you get my random thoughts- lucky you.

Confession, sometimes I buy food at TJMaxx- is that gross?  Anyways this
is the latest gem I found there.  This popcorn was amazing.  It is no
secret I love truffles and this had great truffle flavor.  My mom,
Sterling, and I ate the entire box in seconds.  I am pretty sure they
carry this brand at Whole Foods too if TjMaxx food makes you weary, but
its cheaper there!

I have been trying to build my Summer wardrobe on a budget this year.  This is my latest find.  This ASOS Dress is my newest obsession.  It is cotton and comfortable so I know I will live in it all Summer and I love the tie dye colors.  I highly recommend.

:: A S O S  T I E   D Y E  D R E S S ::

My sister and her husband gave me a Kindle for my Birthday and I am so excited.  They know me well they picked a hot pink leather cover that I adore!  I just picked up Mrs. Kennedy and Me and The Honest Life but what should I read next?  I need some good recommendations.

I finally hung my piece of art from Jenny. I am so in love with it, it makes me happy every time I walk by it.

While I was home my mom had this vintage sofa of my great grandmothers recovered.  I love transforming a vintage piece.  They are so unique and bring such character to a room.  This is my new favorite spot in the house.  She had some of the fabric leftover that she gave me to make into custom ottomans for my den.  I can’t wait to get them back!

Newest perfume obsession is balenciaga florabotanica.  This is the best scent I have smelled in forever!!   I could not stop smelling my wrists after I tried it last week.  Although side note it makes me not want to buy it because Kristen Stewart is the face of it- I can’t stand her pouty attitude.  She never smiles.

Now that the weather is warm all I can think about is Happy Hour.  How good do these pink tequila drinks look?

Have a great Thursday!

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Thoughts For Thursday

Mar 7, 2013

I have never bought shoes from Forever 21 before but I am desperate to get by there to check these out- how amazing is the nude/neon combo?  I mainly want the flats but for the price I might get the heels as well!  The flats are $22 and the heels are $26, no brainer, right?

{Neon Strap Wedge Sandal}

{Neon Strap Platform Sandal}

I am really intrigued by this DIY Salt Scrub.  I love a good salt/sugar scrub to keep in the shower.  They are so good for exfoliating and moisturizing.  Thinking I am going to attempt to make it this weekend, I will report back with the results.

We finally decided on a paint color for our den after looking at paint samples on our walls for two weeks in different lights.  We are going with Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter.  Hopefully it won’t disappoint. I am picking up the paint Friday and hope to start painting next week!

My friend Sarah took Sterling home from school yesterday to have a playdate with her son and I got so much cleaning accomplished.  I just love having a clean and organized house.  I picked up some fresh flowers and busted out my new Nest Candle.  I am loving the Cane Back Chair in our den- I would love a match to go with it, if anyone sees one similar or has one they want to sell let me know!!

 I still have not watched the Beyonce documentary and I am dying too- I hate
the fact that we don’t have HBO.  I read her article in Vogue and I
just really love her and Jay Z.  I saw the clip from her documentary
where she talked about having a miscarriage and I so appreciated her
honesty and openness, I am sure that helped many women who have suffered a
miscarriage. 

 

I am officially addicted to mini Cadbury Eggs.  I don’t even like the big ones, but these small ones are my weakness.  My sister says they are so good because they are made with Belgium chocolate.  Whatever it is they are addictive and I can’t stop eating them.

I went to my first Rikshaw Trunk show this week and loved it.   Thanks to WayWay and Brooke for putting on a fab show!  The designs are seriously awesome.  I picked up this tunic for a beach cover-up.  Mine is the yellow anchor version not online yet.  Hoping the yellow will look sweet with a tan

Check out all the other cute patterns (picture via WayWay’s Instagram)

Can we talk about how excited I am that the Rachel Zoe Project and its a Brad Brad World started back up last night?  Wednesday nights just got alot better.

Last night I made some tea before bed and Sterling insisted he wanted
some not in his plastic cup but in a tiny tea cup.  So I busted out my
wedding china for him to use- because lets be real we rarely use it.  He
was tickled.

Happy Thursday, thank goodness for a playgroup today with good friends!

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Thoughts For Thursday

Dec 13, 2012

I am so excited because my parents are in town this week for two quick days so I get a fun visit in before Christmas!  I absolutely love when they are in town.  I am off this morning to help my mom finish her Christmas shopping and I think we need to hit up the new Toy store, Magnifilous on King Street for Sterling.  Has anyone been?  I mean there is a carousel inside,  he will be in hog heaven.

I came across this on Pinterest and think it is a great gift rule for kids.  I am honestly not buying Sterling much this year.  He already has so much and is still too young to quite grasp it all.  I took him yesterday to help me pick out Toys for Toys for Tots and that was a bad idea.  He wanted to keep everything we picked out!  I wanted him to understand that there are kids that need those gifts more than him,  but he was clueless all “me, me, gimmie, gimmie.”  Oh well I tried.

Its official I am addictive to these Dark Chocolate Pretzel Crisps.  I am pissed at my gals (Amy and Caycee) for telling me to buy these tasty treats.  I ate half a bag in one day.  It said the bag had 4 servings but I am pretty sure I turned it turned it into 1.  I have heard the white chocolate ones are even better but I am scared to buy them in fear I will demolish the whole bag.

Happy Endings is my new favorite show. I love the entire cast.  It is so ridiculously funny- or maybe my sense of humor is just weird. It comes on Tuesday nights at 9,  tune in if you don’t already watch it.


I am really trying to grow my hair out. I Loved the long bob I cut in Februray but now I am ready to have super long hair again.  Any tips for getting it to grow fast?  This is what I want it to look like.

 

I have already wrapped most of my gifts for this year and bought tags but next year I plan to make these DIY glitter tags- how cute are they?  This could be a fun project to do with kids too, Sterling loves some glitter.

(tags via)

I tried out a new color combo last night for a dinner out with the rents: Royal Blue and Rust.  Kind of random but I kind of love it at the same time.

{JCrew Top, JBrand Jeans}

My mom and Sterling at dinner last night, melts my heart.  Nothing like seeing how much your parents love your kids.

xoxo

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Thoughts For Thursday

Nov 1, 2012

So I am thinking about jumping on the Gallery Wall bandwagon.  I know everybody is doing it and for a long time I shunned it, but my hallway needs some sprucing up.  I am thinking of doing a wall with all black and white photos of our family in the same frames.  A very uniform look and all lined up not scattered.  So dish where can I find 9 frames with white mats and a black thin frame.  This needs to be cheap, I am thinking Ikea is my best bet.  I want something similar to this.

Can we talk about Jessica Simpson’s Dad??  Are the rumors true?  Did he turn to the gay side?  I know he and the Mrs are divorcing but from the looks of this picture there is more to the story.  Star reported he has a young boyfriend.  I don’t know why this shocks me, but it does a little.  I mean he was priest for crying out loud!

Have ya’ll heard of the Animal Print Shop?  To say I am obsessed is a major understatement!  Shannon does an amazing job catching these animals in perfect poses.  I am convinced I need one for our house, well really I want more than one!!  You can check out all her work at the Animal Printshop Here.  Below are a few of my favs but there are so many amazing ones on her site!  I think this is the perfect Christmas gift mom and dad if you are reading- hint hint!


I am so excited Sean was picked to be the next Bachelor.  I love him- and I bet Emily is probably regretting not choosing him.  He is so cute and sweet.  I am ready for the new season to begin.  Side note- why do they make them pose with single roses, so cheesy!

Today my mother in law is taking Sterling for a few hours and I am finally going to tackle organizing my closet, it has gotten way out of hand!!  I will try and take some before and after pics.  If only it looked like this!

I started my Christmas list yesterday, my grandfather likes to get them early to get a head start shopping.  I think I may do a post about my wish list but here is one item I really want!  Jennifer Zeuner jewelry is my favorite. I own several of her necklaces and they are daily staples.  I see myself wearing this everyday.

{Jennifer Zeuner Horizontal Cross Necklace}

We had the best Halloween.  I swear it just gets better each year.  Sterling was so darn excited this year, it melted my heart.  He was giddy all day long.  Here is my Spider man in full effect.

This is such a great quote.  Ignore Kermit on it, he makes it seem cheezy but it is something to think about!

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Thoughts For Thursday

Oct 25, 2012

I can’t tell you how excited I was to see this peek of Jessica and Justin’s wedding day on the cover of People.  I really like them together and can’t wait to devour this issue.  I think she looks stunning and I read he played the guitar and serenaded her as she walked down the aisle (tear,  so sweet).

Has anyone heard of the Kid Fresh line before?  I stumbled upon this while aimlessly browsing at Harris Teeter yesterday while Sterling was in school- ah the joys of grocery shopping alone.  Anyways it is a kid line that has hidden veggies in the food.  I served Sterling the mac and cheese that had carrots mixed in last night for dinner and he gobbled it up.  Now I know, some of you are thinking you could just puree carrots and do that yourself,  but I am too lazy this is way easier. (Mel this is precisely why your baby food line will rock!)

I just found the perfect little black shift dress (and statement necklace too).    This dress is on its way to me and I just adore it, especially the exposed zipper in the back.  Of course I had to have the necklace to go with it.  Great Fall Outfit.

{Velvet Tara Ponte Dress} and {Kenneth Jay Lane Agate Necklace}

My latest book I am reading from the Library is Andy Cohen’s “Most Talkative”.  This book has been pretty funny and I have loved all the gossip on the Housewives in it.  If you are obsessed with the Housewives likes me you should check this book out.   It is a great easy breezy read.  Plus how can you not love Andy?


Thanks to my friend Katie I think I found the light fixture for Sterling’s room.  She sent me this link from Land of Nod and I am sold.  This light is adorable and super affordable.    It looks similar to the Sputnik but I like that it is a more kid friendly version.
{Up and Atom Chandelier}

I am obsessed with the new Mumford and Sons CD, Babel.  If you loved their first CD you must buy this one.  Every single song is good.  It currently on repeat in my car (I love songs 1,6, and 10).


We got some sad news this week that one of my friends fathers passed away.  It got me thinking alot about things and how we need to really embrace and appreciate our time on Earth for it is fleeting.   We need to tell our families we love them everyday.   It made me realize things quite often don’t go the way we had planned them but we have to trust God and his master plan.  I ask for you all to say a little prayer for my sweet friend during this difficult time to give her strength to get through this.

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Thoughts For Thursday

Jul 12, 2012

Thank you Pinterest for directing me to this super cute mint blouse for, wait for it, $23 plus free shipping.  You are welcome ladies.  This silky number is going to look perfect with my skinny jeans this fall.  You can get yours HERE.

Thanks to all you girls who told me about Reality Steve.  Have I been living under a rock??  He has all the secrets to all the reality shows I love.  If you aren’t reading his site you should be.

Spoiler alert, he claims Emily and Jef are engaged.   Sorry to all you Arie fans but I could tell as much as Emily liked kissing him (how many times did they make-out Monday?)  I felt like she felt awkward around his family.   Also does it bother anyone esle that Jef only spells his name with one F??  Even the autocorrent on my phone has a problem with it when I tried to text a message about him it added another f.  He does genuinely seem like a sweet nice guy though. 

 Speaking of the Bachelorette.  I love this Maxi Dress Emily was wearing on her date with Sean.  I found out It is by Rory Becca but I cant find it for sell anywhere online, if you know where I can get my hands on this beauty let me know!

Found a new breakfast I can’t wait to try out.  English Muffin topped with Tomato, Mozzarella and Hard Boiled Egg.  Looks simple and delish.  Although lets be honest I would cover mine in way more cheese than that tiny sprinkle of mozzarella.

Check out my latest Ebay necklace score- thanks to my girl Anna for alerting me.  These necklaces are only $6.  Of course I needed the black and mint.  You can order one HERE.

It has been hot as heck here. Thank God for our baby pool.  We have been using this daily!

For all my local gals Pixie Lily is having their huge sample sale this Friday!  You can’t beat the prices on the baby stuff.  I stock up every year for baby gifts.

Pixie Lily Samples and Seconds Sale

Friday, July 13th

9:00-1:00
48 Society Street (corner of Anson and Society)

Layette and Toddler Styles 18.00

Accessories 2.00-5.00

Blankets 14.00
Toddler Playsuits/Loungewear 22.00

Lastly I leave you with this gem.

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Thoughts For Thursday

Jun 28, 2012

Is anyone else completely bored with the Bachelorette this season?  It has been snoozville.  The puppet date with Jef on Monday night was the most akward thing ever.  I am guessing she chooses Ari because I hear his family is loaded.  I am ready for a new season already. 

Speaking of another Reality Show, does everyone agree that Vicki is completely off her rocker on the OC Housewives?   If your daughter and all your friends hate your boyfriend you might should listen.  Also I am pretty sure he did not buy her that fur coat.  This season I actually liked Gretchen a little more and Heather became my favorite.  I did feel bad for Alexis for like a second when everyone ganged up on her but it was all true.  and can we talk about the vest her husband wore to Heather’s party, what was that??


 

As Sterling and I were driving back in town from Charlotte Tuesday,  I looked in the rearview mirror and saw this.  Not sure if I should be worried or impressed at his ability.  I mean he tried to draw eyelashes and with no mirror!

This has been my latest lunch obsession lately.  Mediterrean Platter:  CousCous, Sauteed Kale, Hummus, Tomatoes and Mozarella, and Pretzel Thins.  It is so darn good and very filling!

I am loving my bright coral J Brand shorts.  They actually go with way more than I thought they would.  I am so glad I jumped on the colored jean short band wagon!  This my newest favorite color combo: Navy + Coral. 

{J Brand Cut-offs, Ann Taylor Blouse}

I think I have found the perfect red nail polish.  I found this in my mom’s drawer while I was home and promptly painted my nails.  It is Essie Lollipop.  It is such a classic color.  And if you need another reason to wear it look how great it looks on Olivia Palermo.


My Tilly Maison Tray came and I love it.  She makes the best trays!  This is my second one and I am thinking of putting it on our entryway table to catch keys and mail.

 I forgot to mention yesterday I was guest posting over at Brooke’s blog Decorgreat sharing my favorite and least favorite baby items.  You can check out my post HERE.   

Also stay tuned becasue I will annouce the SwimSpot Winner tomorrow! 

And I finally updated my Recipes tab.  I don’t think I had added my recipes since January but now they are all there!  While updating I came across this recipe from last year that I plan to make tonight:

{Asparagus, Corn, and Mozzarella Salad}

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Thoughts For Thursday

May 24, 2012

This week has certainly flown by, probably because I am looking forward to Memorial Day weekend!  One of my best friends is coming in town to visit and I can’t wait to hang out, drink some tasty drinks and let our boys play!

I am so happy Phillip Phillips won American Idol.  I didn’t watch the whole season but turned in the last few weeks and he knocked my socks off.  His last finale song that sounded like Mumford and Sons was amazing.  Congrats Phillip!

I was browsing through my new JCrew catalog last night and came across these bracelets.  I want all three of them.  Love the Pave Link one and I especially love the Ram one because I am an Aries and I went to Chapel Hill.  I need to be rocking the Ram one.

Speaking of JCrew they are having an additional 30 percent off spring sale items right now.  There are some great things on sale and with the extra 30 percent off things come to really good prices.  In keeping with my current obsession with necklaces I ordered these two beauties.

Droplet Necklace and Triple Stripe Link Necklace

I have a new snack that rocks my face off.  365 Crisp crackers + fresh goat cheese + sliced Strawberries.  It is the perfect combo of salty, creamy, crispy, and sweet.  Especially made with fresh Farmers Market goat cheese and strawberries.  Pairs great with a tall glass of white wine after a long day!

I finally started reading 50 Shades of Grey and wow!  I guess I know what all the hype is about now.  Makes me look at ropes and harnesses in a whole new light….

And is it wrong I am attracted to Christain Grey a totally fictional character?

If you are on the hunt for the perfect maxi dress for the summer please do yourself a favor and order the Velvet by Graham and Spencer Maxi dress.  I absolutely love mine.  It is casual and comfy, yet can be dressed up with fun jewelry!  I have worn mine three times in the last week that is how much I love it!

Velvet by Graham and Spencer Kinnard Maxi Dress

I saw this rug at TJMaxx and I am regretting not buying it.  I wanted it for my porch but in the end decided it was too small.  But how fabulous is it?

I have no words for the Time cover on Breast Feeding a 4 year old.  I am shocked and honestly a little repulsed.  Breastfeeding is a wonderful thing but that is just plain weird to nurse a child that old.   Heck I would feel weird still nursing my two old who has teeth and can talk- gross.

Kim vs Gwyneth.  Of course Gwyneth wore the dress better.  Not even close.

I will leave you with this picture of my little man striking his model pose.  Blue Steel in the making,

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Thoughts For Thursday

Dec 1, 2011

I am home visiting my parents this week since I didn’t get to see them for Thanksgiving. I always love coming home because normally I am the one taking care of everybody but when I am home my parents pamper me and take care of me. It is lovely. Here is what we have been up.

We took Sterling to see Santa for the first time. This did not go over so well….


But how priceless is this picture? I can’t wait to bust this out when he is older!

We did some Christmas shopping and my mom picked this fabulous leopard dress up for me at JCrew. I absolutely love it! Leopard print is my favorite! I can’t wait to wear this gorgeous number, I think it may be my NYE dress. Versatile enough to wear many times over!
JCREW JULES DRESS IN WILDCAT PRINT



It also comes in a blouse version which is equally as fabulous but I went with the dress since I have so many blouses already.
JCREW WILDCAT BLOUSE


We enjoyed sushi from The Cowfish and ladies if you live in Charlotte you have to eat there! They have burguish which is hamburger sushi, truly amazing. They will do the rolls in brown rice per request which is always an added bonus in my book. We had the Marks Roll, The Surf and Turf Roll and the Blackened Tuna Roll. DELISH!


Does anybody ever feel like this? Sometimes I look in my full closet and still can’t find anything to wear!


I get to pick up my first original abstract by Sally King Benedict on Monday! I am in love, I am pretty sure this beauty is going in Sterling’s room! I am so excited to own a piece of her artwork!


She was just featured in Elle Decor this month- how cool is that? Her painting is in the home of Ashley Stark and it is truly gorgeous!

That’s all I have for today. I am off for a lunch playdate with a dear friend and to visit my grandfather! xoxo

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  1. Laur says:

    1. that dress looks so much better on you! I tried it on and could not pull it off…booo!
    2. I need that quote…just perfect.
    3. that picture of Sterling is PRICELESS!!! Love it!

  2. Priceless picture of Sterling! I can't wait to see how Wells does with Santa, I'm sure there will be tears! That dress is killer girl!

  3. Stephanie says:

    I LOVE going home to my parents without my husband! You never really get a break from being "mommy" but it is nice to be the daughter for a few days and not the wife.

  4. LOVE the dress!! Great NYE pick up. And that picture of Sterling is so fabulous. Too funny.

  5. I have that dress!!! Love it!

  6. 1. That picture of Sterling is amazing!!!! hahahaha

    2. I love that dress I completely agree perfect for NYE

  7. Absolutely love your new dress and your new piece of art! Both gorgeous. And that picture of Sterling is incredible. Should probably be your holiday card!

  8. Love the new dress! And just think it's great you get to go to your parents and have them pamper you! 🙂

  9. Awesome dress! That Santa pic is priceless!!!

  10. Kyle says:

    Natalie- That picture with Santa is priceless! Oh my. The expression on his face says it all!! LOVE your leopard dress. Just got a fun leopard top from Forever 21. Really into the print, too.

  11. Awww, that pic of Sterling is too cute!!!

  12. Bud and Leo says:

    Sterling is so precious and I'm still not over those adorbs shoes!!! They are SO cute on him! Love your dress- it's a classic and will be perfect for NYE. And that artwork is beautiful!!! I need one!

  13. love the dress! I hated santa as a baby too-such a funny picture!

  14. Alicia xoxxo says:

    Oh poor little Sterling! It will make for a great story someday when he is older though! He is so adorable! Love your dress! You look amazing in it!
    We are taking Owen Saturday to meet Santa. I am curious to see how he will react!
    Enjoy your time home with your parents!

  15. Amber H. says:

    Ha! I work right across the street from Cowfish in the same building as Diamonds Direct. We eat there all the time and its deelish! 🙂

  16. LOOOOOOOOVE the dress! Definite yes for NYE…and I remember that darling pic from last year, I love it! Definitely one for when his first girlfriend shows up at the house! (c:

  17. megan says:

    I have a similar pic with Ronald McDonald when I was a babe. I was not a fan. That dress and blouse look similar to the J.Crew blouse I just scored off of Ebay (tags still on!). Love it.

  18. Hahaha can't believe that first pic, so funny!
    I'm in love with that dress, great choice!

  19. ~Kristen~ says:

    That Santa picture is too funny! I love Sterling's outfit!

    I just found your blog through Pawley's Island Posh … we have a lot in common! I went to College of Charleston and lived in Charleston for several years before we moved to Florida. My husband and I were also married there. My son was born in July 2010, so he's just a bit younger than Sterling. 🙂 New reader here!

  20. Poor Sterling, he looks so scared! He'll definitely get a kick out of that picture some day.
    It took everything in my power not to buy that dress at JCrew during my black Friday shopping. it looks great on you and will be perfect for NYE.

  21. Michaela says:

    Ah…you're always sooo stylish I can't stand it! It looks FAB on you!

  22. Annamarie says:

    Love that dress! So cute! I also need to try that restaurant next time I'm up there. We go to Charleston quite often so I plan on adding that to my list!! Thanks!

  23. Melanie says:

    oh Sterling!!! That one is a keeper, he will die when he sees that one day! And also, I work at J.crew part time and that leopard dress is fab…you will wear that for years.

  24. ha ha..that picture is priceless 🙂 love the dress. my husband says that quote was written for me! the artwork is amazing 🙂

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