What a fantastic summer!! It really could not have been any better!!
Here are a few things from our family summer bucket list, a few we still need to complete and a few we will continue to do throughout this coming year! This is a compiled list from our entire family (not too hard to figure out which task belonged to which member) and in no particular order!! It got a little creative! Enjoy! We did!
1. Make new friends, but keep the old. We follow this all year round!
2. Plant a garden and actually grow something. This really and truly happened and I was so excited!!!!!
3. Find a way to make Skinny Fried Okra. Whole wheat flour! Okra from my garden :)
4. Make Skinny Pimento Cheese. Some things just need to be all fat! A waisted 20 minutes!
5. Walk around town after dark as a family and see the sights...with a little ice cream!
6. Go on a road trip to a new place! Highly recommend this for every summer, along with a dvd player and lots of books for the ride!
7. Pick fresh blueberries from the tree...and eat a few right out of the palm of your hand!
8. Try to eat all organic!
9. Tell a friend how much your relationship with them means to you!
10. Watch the Olympics and keep track of the Medal Count! Go USA!
11. Learn about a new country! London, of course!
12. Run as a family through sprinklers. Water was so strong it flew one child about 4 feet...giggles from the entire family!
13. Go bowling and wear funky knee socks! Next, midnight bowling...adults only!
14. Draw a Chalk Art family mural on the back porch...and make mommy look extra skinny and beautiful!
15. Take a pottery class for kids and manage not to break anything!
16. See a famous person! Totally happened...someone I had a huge crush on in college! Not so cute now!
17. Organize at least one room in the house...or one drawer!
18. Play putt-putt golf and, in conjunction, realize this could be a new after school activity!!!
19. Clean out the garage. Still has not happened...hint hint Darling Husband!
20. Have a lemonade stand or garage sale and give all the proceeds to charity!
21. Have a water balloon fight!
22. Fly a kite! Each kid had their own kite...each kite got tangled together...each kite then got tangled in the sand dunes...each kite got tangled in the trash!!
23. Make homemade ice cream! Yummy chocolate thanks to Darling Husband!
24. Find a new summer beverage. Fresh Fruit Mint Sangria!
25. Make that Mountain Dew Glow thing on Pinterest! Did not work...need to try again! Any advice?
26. Read a Novel. Does the Fifty Shades of Grey trilogy count??
27. Read a chapter book as a family! Not Fifty Shades!
28. Go to Sonic Happy Hour...and NOT get Mozzarella Sticks!
29. Dig for dinosaurs...and find prehistoric worms! Yuck!
30. Pick a date night and act like college kids. Check, check, check!
31. Watch a Sunrise and Sunset. May have a little something to do with the above!
32. Go to a drive-in movie. It rained!
33. Find a new "at home" work-out. I refuse to get babysitters in the summer unless absolutely necessary! Not so successful...had to cut out the pimento cheese but not the Sangria!
34. Build a life size Robot. Not happening!
35. Pet a baby shark. Yep!
36. Go on a kayaking trip/adventure as a family...now that is a work-out!
37. Go oyster diving...waiting until the fall to do this!
38. Go on a family fishing trip and everyone catch something! I had the smallest catch...a baby snapper! We threw it back to it's mommy!
39. Have a family camp out...this occurred in our den...enough said!
40. Go and get inspired at Duh and Ikea! Now my brain is on overdrive!
41. Try some new restaurants! Still have not checked off The Biscuit King, Old 27 Grill, Tru Midtown, the new Gambino's or the new burger joint at The Wharf! Need to do ferris wheel, too!
42. Take the kids to eat at a nice white table cloth restaurant...this occurred several times and with success...thanks to Angry Birds and Stack the States!
43. Take the kids to a great Steakhouse...their favorite meal and our favorite bottle of wine! Darling Husband in his best caveman-like voice says, "These children WILL adapt to our lifestyle!" Thank you again to the brains within Apple Inc.
44. Catch and/or pick an entire meal and cook together! Check, Check, check, several times! I love summer cookin'!
45. Fly in a crop duster...this did not happen, but would be so exhilarating!
46. Make friendship bracelets! Or, buy them! Did both!
47. Make ribbon wands and dance outside to fun music! Very Cute!
48. Attempt to get "Call Me Maybe" permanently brainwashed out of my head!
49. Smile lots and whine (or wine) less...this was a goal for the whole family!
50. Make a photo book of the entire summer to cherish the memories and transfer those thoughts into the upcoming school year!
Until next summer!!
xoxo,
Dixie Chic
Thursday, August 16, 2012
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
What is Wrong with ME!!!!!
There is something weird going on with me! I don't quite get it. I CAN'T SLEEP!! I go to bed around 10:00 pm (after a glass or two of Pinot with Darling Husband) and then find myself WIDE (ASS) AWAKE around 3:30 or 4:00 am!!! Staring at the dark ceiling, listening to Darling Husband and Dog (I would call him "Damn Dog" but I am going to be nice!) as they harmoniously snore together, while the ceiling fan, which sounds like a small Cessna plane flying around, blows in the background!
It was, no doubt, an all too realistic dream that woke me up. I have had very realistic dreams all my life, (some good and some bad) but lately these dreams have stirred up my head like a blender mixing a very strong frozen Strawberry Margarita! Which I should be grateful for when it comes to creative writing...if I could only get my sleep deprived self out of the bed and get logged in during the wee hours of the morning! I love the creativity (and the escapism) of writing, but I can never seem to find the time lately, except when it is the most inconvenient time possible...WHILE I SHOULD BE SLEEPING!
So, why is it that I get my best ideas while I am bundled up in my amazing, one thousand thread count sheets next to my Darling Husband who hits REM sleep after 10 minutes of closing his eyes? Why do the words flow so easily before the rooster crows? I need my sleep! I am suppose to be sleeping through the night at this point in my life!!! I have children...very active children who are no longer babies...hence the reason I don't have time to scribble down my thoughts during the normal waking hours of the day. Why do I lie wide awake thinking, yet so comfortable and unable to get out of bed, hoping that for the 100th time I attempt to count cuddly little furry sheep, that for some ridiculous reason, it may work! Darling Husband is asleep...sound asleep. And, he admits he is Superman and does not require sleep (sometimes I just want to punch him!). And, finally I ask, why can't I be like a man and come up with some of my best ideas while having sex? Aren't we suppose to be thinking about each other during this time - WHATEVER!! I just don't get it!
What is my problem? I have nothing to be stressed about, nothing emotionally bothering me...my inner goddess is enjoying bliss right now! Some people say it is possibly the tannins in the wine...or so they like to believe! Could it be something I am eating (still no carbs in the diet...or at least not a lot). Maybe it is all the activities that have us going each day that my massive, genius brain can't take it all! Maybe that inner goddess of mine is telling me I really don't need 8 to 9 hours of beauty sleep per night (I wish that were the case!). Are my dreams too real ...ummm...that would be nice in a few cases?! Or, maybe it's that we (I) just need to take a rest and slow down and start savoring this little thing we call "SUMMER!!" I mean really, where did June go?
Last summer was so easy. We didn't have much planned and it was easy...relaxing! This summer...WAY TOO BUSY!! And, I have missed my little blog! Darling Husband's suggestion, "Don't write such long posts, Honey." Well, sweety, that is not my style, that is for FACEBOOK!! And, it's not that I don't have anything to write (promote, boast or complain) about...this summer has been crazy fun with lots of items from the bucket list checked off (post about the later to come hopefully before the summer ends).
But, I love to write and have silently been writing for quiet some time. Some have recently suggested (thank you for your insightful words and emails - please keep them coming) that I write a book or start a column. God knows I have enough material within our little slice of life for several volumes (and it would not be about all of my delicious Snapper recipes!!). However, the stats of my little blog amaze me every time I check in! Research shows that most people who start a blog only last 3 months until they get bored! I only post about every three months, so there is no boredom here!! There are thousands of blogs on entertaining, decorating, cooking, fashion, etc, etc, etc. and they are fantastic! But, I hope to give you something a little different (besides the ranting of my sleeping habits) and hopefully a little more often, that will maybe make you smile a little. Thanks to all my readers (some from far off places) and I guess to my sleepless nights for all the ideas I now have cuddled up in that massive, genius brain of mine!!
Headed out to grab some Melatonin!!
xoxo,
Dixie Chic
It was, no doubt, an all too realistic dream that woke me up. I have had very realistic dreams all my life, (some good and some bad) but lately these dreams have stirred up my head like a blender mixing a very strong frozen Strawberry Margarita! Which I should be grateful for when it comes to creative writing...if I could only get my sleep deprived self out of the bed and get logged in during the wee hours of the morning! I love the creativity (and the escapism) of writing, but I can never seem to find the time lately, except when it is the most inconvenient time possible...WHILE I SHOULD BE SLEEPING!
So, why is it that I get my best ideas while I am bundled up in my amazing, one thousand thread count sheets next to my Darling Husband who hits REM sleep after 10 minutes of closing his eyes? Why do the words flow so easily before the rooster crows? I need my sleep! I am suppose to be sleeping through the night at this point in my life!!! I have children...very active children who are no longer babies...hence the reason I don't have time to scribble down my thoughts during the normal waking hours of the day. Why do I lie wide awake thinking, yet so comfortable and unable to get out of bed, hoping that for the 100th time I attempt to count cuddly little furry sheep, that for some ridiculous reason, it may work! Darling Husband is asleep...sound asleep. And, he admits he is Superman and does not require sleep (sometimes I just want to punch him!). And, finally I ask, why can't I be like a man and come up with some of my best ideas while having sex? Aren't we suppose to be thinking about each other during this time - WHATEVER!! I just don't get it!
What is my problem? I have nothing to be stressed about, nothing emotionally bothering me...my inner goddess is enjoying bliss right now! Some people say it is possibly the tannins in the wine...or so they like to believe! Could it be something I am eating (still no carbs in the diet...or at least not a lot). Maybe it is all the activities that have us going each day that my massive, genius brain can't take it all! Maybe that inner goddess of mine is telling me I really don't need 8 to 9 hours of beauty sleep per night (I wish that were the case!). Are my dreams too real ...ummm...that would be nice in a few cases?! Or, maybe it's that we (I) just need to take a rest and slow down and start savoring this little thing we call "SUMMER!!" I mean really, where did June go?
Last summer was so easy. We didn't have much planned and it was easy...relaxing! This summer...WAY TOO BUSY!! And, I have missed my little blog! Darling Husband's suggestion, "Don't write such long posts, Honey." Well, sweety, that is not my style, that is for FACEBOOK!! And, it's not that I don't have anything to write (promote, boast or complain) about...this summer has been crazy fun with lots of items from the bucket list checked off (post about the later to come hopefully before the summer ends).
But, I love to write and have silently been writing for quiet some time. Some have recently suggested (thank you for your insightful words and emails - please keep them coming) that I write a book or start a column. God knows I have enough material within our little slice of life for several volumes (and it would not be about all of my delicious Snapper recipes!!). However, the stats of my little blog amaze me every time I check in! Research shows that most people who start a blog only last 3 months until they get bored! I only post about every three months, so there is no boredom here!! There are thousands of blogs on entertaining, decorating, cooking, fashion, etc, etc, etc. and they are fantastic! But, I hope to give you something a little different (besides the ranting of my sleeping habits) and hopefully a little more often, that will maybe make you smile a little. Thanks to all my readers (some from far off places) and I guess to my sleepless nights for all the ideas I now have cuddled up in that massive, genius brain of mine!!
Headed out to grab some Melatonin!!
xoxo,
Dixie Chic
Friday, May 11, 2012
Mother's Day!! Not a Shade of Grey!
What a glorious time of year to celebrate the people that I believe make the world go around...Mother's!!You know this if you are one, you know this if you have one! Mother's make it happen...and usually with a beautiful plumped up lip glossed smile on their face!
It's a great season to celebrate Mother's Day! Besides this day being in the month of May (which most of us know is a crazy, hectic month with all the end of the year parties and performances, not to mention all the end of the year gifts), Mother's Day, if one of our biggest supporters Mother Nature is on our side, is usually a fantastic beautiful sunny day! Whether you celebrate it with your family at church, at the country club, at a fantastic local restaurant (paired with a mimosa and a fabulous plate of crab cakes) at the beach (sorry "The Gulf") or the lake, make it a great day! It is the one day of the year that is all OURS! No one elses! We can (usually) make the husband do EVERYTHING we want and they better not complain!
But, if you are a mom like me who learned from a mom like mine, all you want for this one day is peace and happiness! That's it and maybe a kiss on the cheek followed by a crystal champagne flute filled with bubbly and freshly squeezed oj! And, of course my favorite, a cute homemade card from the kids! I remember one year I got a homemade flower vase (last minute styrofoam cup decorated with crayola markers) filled with flowers (maybe a few weeds) from our yard. It was perfect! It is really very simple for most moms like me! If we could only have Mother's Day everyday...yeah right!
And, if you are lucky enough to have a Darling Husband who likes to shower you with gifts to show his appreciation (in my case wrapped in the bag it came in...I'm not complaining), then take a few notes from me. It took Darling Husband a few years and a few failed attempts (once again with a beautiful plumped up lip glossed smile on my face) to realize that sometimes he just needs me to go pick out my gift myself! Not to mention, that sometimes it takes a real tear jearker of a Hallmark commercial to remind him that yes, Mother's Day is this weekend, as he turns to me, smiles and asks, "Have you bought your gift yet?" I kindly reply with that beautiful plumped up lip glossed smile on my face while batting my natural Latissed eye lashes at him, "Yes, Darling, I have!" Don't get me wrong, Darling Husband knows how to pick out a nice gift (he does read my blog) but sometimes he just needs a little extra push in this area!!
There are a few websites that make it very easy for these special occasions! One of my favorites as you all know Shopbop.com. They have devoted an entire Lookbook to our day which includes some of my favorite designers: Genetic Denim, Rag &Bone, Jenni Kayne, Gorjana, Foley + Corinna, Alexis Bittar to name a few. And, who would not spend a little extra time in car line to play on websites such as Lulu Lemon, Sephora, Revolve, Etsy and Pinterest for other great ideas for yourself, as well as, the important mother's in your life!!
Locally, you can't get any better than Debra's with adorable shorts from Alica & Olivia and amazing jewelry by New York designer Kara Ross with other creations by Beje!! East Bay Clothier's has a great assortment of summer denim by Notify and MiH and affordable cool tanks in an assortment of colors. JJ Eyes has been making their Mother's Day wish list for a month so we can all look amazing behind our cool new aviators!! Objects at The Eastern Shore Center has amazing picture frames and beach bags for your place at "The Gulf." Speaking of "The Gulf," have you checked out the newly expanded Lucca...to die for!! Lucca has some great trends for those hot summer concerts. And, anything at MII you can put straight on Darling Husband's credit card...hint hint!! Spa packages at The Grand and The Battle House or services at Clear MedSpa will suffice as well!! And, I hear there are a handfull of women that will sell you the Rodan and Field's Mother's Day Gift Bag. So, tell your husbands (or yourself) to get shopping!!
Oh I forgot one more thing!! Let's not forget, the one thing we all want in our beach bag but may not (or may!) be willing to admit to...the book Fifty Shades of Grey!! I have not gone there yet, but it is on the top of my summer reading list!! From what I hear, if you are too embarrassed to have it out by the pool, GET A NOOK! Does not matter if it is the black and white or color version...just saying!
So, whether your day is full of kisses and homemade cards or if it finds you in a new pair of shades or some sparkly earrings, may every other day, besides Mother's Day, be a shade of grey!!
xoxo,
Dixie Chic
It's a great season to celebrate Mother's Day! Besides this day being in the month of May (which most of us know is a crazy, hectic month with all the end of the year parties and performances, not to mention all the end of the year gifts), Mother's Day, if one of our biggest supporters Mother Nature is on our side, is usually a fantastic beautiful sunny day! Whether you celebrate it with your family at church, at the country club, at a fantastic local restaurant (paired with a mimosa and a fabulous plate of crab cakes) at the beach (sorry "The Gulf") or the lake, make it a great day! It is the one day of the year that is all OURS! No one elses! We can (usually) make the husband do EVERYTHING we want and they better not complain!
But, if you are a mom like me who learned from a mom like mine, all you want for this one day is peace and happiness! That's it and maybe a kiss on the cheek followed by a crystal champagne flute filled with bubbly and freshly squeezed oj! And, of course my favorite, a cute homemade card from the kids! I remember one year I got a homemade flower vase (last minute styrofoam cup decorated with crayola markers) filled with flowers (maybe a few weeds) from our yard. It was perfect! It is really very simple for most moms like me! If we could only have Mother's Day everyday...yeah right!
And, if you are lucky enough to have a Darling Husband who likes to shower you with gifts to show his appreciation (in my case wrapped in the bag it came in...I'm not complaining), then take a few notes from me. It took Darling Husband a few years and a few failed attempts (once again with a beautiful plumped up lip glossed smile on my face) to realize that sometimes he just needs me to go pick out my gift myself! Not to mention, that sometimes it takes a real tear jearker of a Hallmark commercial to remind him that yes, Mother's Day is this weekend, as he turns to me, smiles and asks, "Have you bought your gift yet?" I kindly reply with that beautiful plumped up lip glossed smile on my face while batting my natural Latissed eye lashes at him, "Yes, Darling, I have!" Don't get me wrong, Darling Husband knows how to pick out a nice gift (he does read my blog) but sometimes he just needs a little extra push in this area!!
There are a few websites that make it very easy for these special occasions! One of my favorites as you all know Shopbop.com. They have devoted an entire Lookbook to our day which includes some of my favorite designers: Genetic Denim, Rag &Bone, Jenni Kayne, Gorjana, Foley + Corinna, Alexis Bittar to name a few. And, who would not spend a little extra time in car line to play on websites such as Lulu Lemon, Sephora, Revolve, Etsy and Pinterest for other great ideas for yourself, as well as, the important mother's in your life!!
Locally, you can't get any better than Debra's with adorable shorts from Alica & Olivia and amazing jewelry by New York designer Kara Ross with other creations by Beje!! East Bay Clothier's has a great assortment of summer denim by Notify and MiH and affordable cool tanks in an assortment of colors. JJ Eyes has been making their Mother's Day wish list for a month so we can all look amazing behind our cool new aviators!! Objects at The Eastern Shore Center has amazing picture frames and beach bags for your place at "The Gulf." Speaking of "The Gulf," have you checked out the newly expanded Lucca...to die for!! Lucca has some great trends for those hot summer concerts. And, anything at MII you can put straight on Darling Husband's credit card...hint hint!! Spa packages at The Grand and The Battle House or services at Clear MedSpa will suffice as well!! And, I hear there are a handfull of women that will sell you the Rodan and Field's Mother's Day Gift Bag. So, tell your husbands (or yourself) to get shopping!!
Oh I forgot one more thing!! Let's not forget, the one thing we all want in our beach bag but may not (or may!) be willing to admit to...the book Fifty Shades of Grey!! I have not gone there yet, but it is on the top of my summer reading list!! From what I hear, if you are too embarrassed to have it out by the pool, GET A NOOK! Does not matter if it is the black and white or color version...just saying!
So, whether your day is full of kisses and homemade cards or if it finds you in a new pair of shades or some sparkly earrings, may every other day, besides Mother's Day, be a shade of grey!!
xoxo,
Dixie Chic
Monday, December 26, 2011
The Day After the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!!!
Whew!! We made it!! Huge wonderful family meals, festive holiday parties, all the shopping (with only one "conversation" about how much money was being spent), the wrapping of gifts (don't ever buy Target wrapping paper - it's terribly thin), all the food, food, and more food...and enough mimosas and red wine to finish off a large bottle of ibuprofen from Sam's!! And, even though Christmas Day has come and gone, Darling Husband and I feel it was one of our best Christmas seasons ever!!
Just like preparing for a fantastic gourmet meal...it takes days to prepare and only about 45 minutes to inhale...I feel like the excitement of the arrival of Mr. Claus and "his gifts" on Christmas morning had the same effect!! It took weeks, if not months, to prepare and and only about 45 minutes for the excitement to wear off!! Which was good for Darling Husband and me...we were back off to bed for a long winter's nap (minus the kerchief...which acording to wikipedia, is a "small square piece of cloth tied around a women's head or neck for protective or decorative purposes"...ok) while the little elves played quietly with their new found treasures!!!
Speaking of elves...I was pleasantly surprised at how creative some Mom's (and even Dad's) were with their "Elf on the Shelf" this year. I saw different ideas daily on Pinterest (my new addiction!) and Facebook of the 6 inch tall, candy cane striped, stuffed doll strategically being laid out by their owners to see delight from their children each and every morning. No longer did Darling Husband and I get our morning hugs and kisses...it was straight to find out where and what our little elf was up to during the middle of the night!!! Sometimes our elf was very adventurous and/or mischievous (usually after Mommy and Daddy had a few glasses of wine). And others, well, he just got thrown onto another lamp or the Christmas Tree while (I) dazedly walked to the Keurig early the next morning (this can also happen after Mommy and Daddy has had a few glasses of wine the night before!!!) Although the little elf is a cute holiday tradition, it is always nice when he catches a ride back to The North Pole on Santa's sleigh!! Until next year, Mr. Elf!!
Speaking of wine, we consumed quite a bit this holiday season (maybe that is why it was one of our best!!) and good wine, at that!! And, with wine comes food, and good food, too!! I love cooking during the Holidays, old (mostly from my mom) and new recipes, and the multi-day feast of cooking will continue in our house until after the New Year (and the NEW work-out program will start shortly after!!!)
Last year, someone gave our children an Easy Bake Oven for Christmas. This Christmas, it found it's way to THE TRASH CAN!! What a waste!! There is nothing "Easy" about it! I consider myself a pretty decent at-home chef who always has room for improvement. But, Darling Husband and I tried to "Bake" a stuffed pizza kit that "Santa" brought our kids yesterday afternoon and it completely fell apart and looked inedible!! How do you make a child-friendly, decent tasting pizza that comes out of a paper packet that says, "Just Add Water?" (Macaroni and Cheese I understand) We have only used that damn oven twice!! What was I thinking...that it made for good stocking stuffers? God Bless our troops that have to eat out of similar paper packets!!! In the trash!!!! No tears shed and our children will learn how to bake the real way!!!!
As I said, it was one of the best Christmas seasons for our family to date, including some of the best gifts we have ever given and received. Even the Dirty Santa Party we attended was amazing!!! But, besides celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, the best gift to me, was the cherished time we spent with ALL of our wonderful family and friends!!! I truly hope yours was just as fabulous as ours!! Bring on 2012...and some more wine!!!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!
xoxo,
Dixie Chic
Just like preparing for a fantastic gourmet meal...it takes days to prepare and only about 45 minutes to inhale...I feel like the excitement of the arrival of Mr. Claus and "his gifts" on Christmas morning had the same effect!! It took weeks, if not months, to prepare and and only about 45 minutes for the excitement to wear off!! Which was good for Darling Husband and me...we were back off to bed for a long winter's nap (minus the kerchief...which acording to wikipedia, is a "small square piece of cloth tied around a women's head or neck for protective or decorative purposes"...ok) while the little elves played quietly with their new found treasures!!!
Speaking of elves...I was pleasantly surprised at how creative some Mom's (and even Dad's) were with their "Elf on the Shelf" this year. I saw different ideas daily on Pinterest (my new addiction!) and Facebook of the 6 inch tall, candy cane striped, stuffed doll strategically being laid out by their owners to see delight from their children each and every morning. No longer did Darling Husband and I get our morning hugs and kisses...it was straight to find out where and what our little elf was up to during the middle of the night!!! Sometimes our elf was very adventurous and/or mischievous (usually after Mommy and Daddy had a few glasses of wine). And others, well, he just got thrown onto another lamp or the Christmas Tree while (I) dazedly walked to the Keurig early the next morning (this can also happen after Mommy and Daddy has had a few glasses of wine the night before!!!) Although the little elf is a cute holiday tradition, it is always nice when he catches a ride back to The North Pole on Santa's sleigh!! Until next year, Mr. Elf!!
Speaking of wine, we consumed quite a bit this holiday season (maybe that is why it was one of our best!!) and good wine, at that!! And, with wine comes food, and good food, too!! I love cooking during the Holidays, old (mostly from my mom) and new recipes, and the multi-day feast of cooking will continue in our house until after the New Year (and the NEW work-out program will start shortly after!!!)
Last year, someone gave our children an Easy Bake Oven for Christmas. This Christmas, it found it's way to THE TRASH CAN!! What a waste!! There is nothing "Easy" about it! I consider myself a pretty decent at-home chef who always has room for improvement. But, Darling Husband and I tried to "Bake" a stuffed pizza kit that "Santa" brought our kids yesterday afternoon and it completely fell apart and looked inedible!! How do you make a child-friendly, decent tasting pizza that comes out of a paper packet that says, "Just Add Water?" (Macaroni and Cheese I understand) We have only used that damn oven twice!! What was I thinking...that it made for good stocking stuffers? God Bless our troops that have to eat out of similar paper packets!!! In the trash!!!! No tears shed and our children will learn how to bake the real way!!!!
As I said, it was one of the best Christmas seasons for our family to date, including some of the best gifts we have ever given and received. Even the Dirty Santa Party we attended was amazing!!! But, besides celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, the best gift to me, was the cherished time we spent with ALL of our wonderful family and friends!!! I truly hope yours was just as fabulous as ours!! Bring on 2012...and some more wine!!!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!
xoxo,
Dixie Chic
Happy Holidaze!!!
Hey everyone!! After a little break from my blog, I decided on this rainy day, to check in. Wow!! I have an audience of 557 and all in the United States, Germany, China, Finland, Singapore and Canada!! I had no idea!!
I love reading blogs, but get a little bugged by one's that post everyday!! I mean...these people must only "blog" and nothing else!! Life, for me, just gets in the way...but in a good way!!
Life is good right now! After a crazy busy Fall, Darling Husband and I are ready for a nice holiday season!! And, for the first time EVER, I am almost done with all of my shopping!! So, feeling a little creative!!
In saying that, I have found a new interest...Pinterest!!! If you haven't discovered it...you should!! I guess that is where my creativity has been living lately!! For those of you who aren't familiar with it, it is basically a social network of boards that contain everything that interests you!! Shopping, Design, Home Decor, Cooking, Books, Entertaining, Kids, Inspiration, Crafts, etc, etc, etc!!!! Check it out!!
Happy Pinning!!
xoxo,
Dixie Chic
I love reading blogs, but get a little bugged by one's that post everyday!! I mean...these people must only "blog" and nothing else!! Life, for me, just gets in the way...but in a good way!!
Life is good right now! After a crazy busy Fall, Darling Husband and I are ready for a nice holiday season!! And, for the first time EVER, I am almost done with all of my shopping!! So, feeling a little creative!!
In saying that, I have found a new interest...Pinterest!!! If you haven't discovered it...you should!! I guess that is where my creativity has been living lately!! For those of you who aren't familiar with it, it is basically a social network of boards that contain everything that interests you!! Shopping, Design, Home Decor, Cooking, Books, Entertaining, Kids, Inspiration, Crafts, etc, etc, etc!!!! Check it out!!
Happy Pinning!!
xoxo,
Dixie Chic
Monday, September 12, 2011
Girls of Fall!
What a great summer... and, what a great blessing to have our children back in school again!! I don't know about y'all, but summer flew by!!! It just seems like yesterday that I wrote my first post on the Beginning of Summer!! I truly did not want summer to end, but then those last few days (maybe weeks) seemed to have taken FOREVER!
These are just a few of My Favorite Looks:
But, now it is quiet! At least until 3:00 pm (and right now while I am typing away at 5:30 am)! And...what have I found myself doing with all my newly found "free time"? SHOPPING!!! And, dreaming!
I titled this "Girls of Fall" because of the show by Kenny Chesney "Boys of Fall". It is one of Darling Husband's favorites to watch (as I do to, being a football fan, as well). If you have not seen it, even if you aren't a fan of the sport, is really is a great documentary, especially if you have a rising football player. But, when I say "Girls of Fall", well...what is our favorite thing to do in Fall...Shopping!!!
With Fall and the lovely weather we had this past week, comes new fashion and new ideas all around! Football games, warm and hearty soups, bourbon and cokes, fishing turns into hunting, shorts turn into jeans, falling of the leaves and the changing of times!!
But, who could not love the rich colors of Fall (especially on jeans now!), a Fall favorite...animal print, soft leathers, plush furs (and fur trimmed), and my favorite...beautiful basic blacks!!!!
These are just a few of My Favorite Looks:
My wallet is jumping out of my handbag for this look!
Shopbop! My go to for everything!
But, my secret...some looks can be recreated or bought from our local stores!!
Love this! Shopbop.
Great Colorblocking - Shopbop!
I must find or travel somewhere to wear this, it is gorgeous!!! Again...shopbop!
Elegantly Casual look from Rag and Bone which is available at East Bay Clothiers in Fairhope.
Look by Elizabeth and James from Shopbop.
More casual colorblocking from Shopbop!
This is just perfect for a date night out (I am thinking around the holidays) or a weekend in New Orleans!!!
Look from Shopbop!
Luxurious Casual!! Shopbop!
Fun, Fun Fun!!!!! Thank you once again Shopbop!!!
This dress and shrug by Gucci is to die for...if I were...maybe...going to the Emmys!!!!
Just had to throw that one in for a Grand Finale!!!
Happy Shopping! More to come!!
XOXO,
Dixie Chic
Thursday, August 4, 2011
The Help - "Law...that's a good book!"
"What was the point of the book? For women to realize, We are just two people. Not that much separates us. Not nearly as much as I'd thought." - Kathryn Stockett
This is a quote from Kathryn Stockett's bestseller The Help. But, if you missed it, that is because it was in the "Too Little, Too Late" section after "The Acknowledgements". Not even a part of the novel, but this quote from Kathryn Stockett's own words, spoke to me the most! It is so true, on so many levels! Although Mrs. Stockett was speaking of the difference in White and Black Women in the South, while I was reading this amazing manuscript, I could not help but analyze my own relationships with my friends and other women in my little world and wondered what separates us?
Then, I started asking myself some questions. Do I treat everyone equally? Or, do I only care about my own little group of friends? Who is really important to me, who makes me feel as equally important to them (no matter the social status, income level or neighborhood they live in)? Do I support my friends as much as I should or do I tend to show my selfish side a little, yet unintentionally? Are some people really not worth my time anymore or do I continue to try to keep up the friendship (even though they aren't putting up the effort)? What am I really worth to them? Do the people in my life share the same ideals and goals? Am I being the best possible person, daughter, sister, mother, wife, friend that I can possibly be and who is helping me accomplish that? Am I helping them accomplish that same goal? Because isn't that really what is important in life? Or, am I asking all these things because I hear other women asking these questions?
Although I would not consider myself a Hilly Holbrook (and there are several in our area who need to eat a slice of some "humble chocolate custard pie") but are there some Hilly's in my life that I need to get rid of so that I can be my best possible self? Am I an Elizabeth who
seems to be a pushover to people, like Hilly, and just longing to be accepted for who I am (homemade slipcovers and all!)? But, what about Skeeter who is a strong woman who just sits back, analyzes and wants and decides to make a little change in the world (or maybe just her little world!) no matter the consequences. As for another character we unfortunately did not hear much about, Lou Anne Templeton, who I believe just could not take the pressures of life anymore and attempted to take her own. I wish we could have heard more of her story! This all sounds a little too familiar...even almost 50 years later!
Then there is Abileen and Minny! Both of these women are amazing and have been through so much! I don't want to go in to too much detail for those of you who have not had the pleasure of soaking in this amazing "must-read". But, Abileen has so much to say, a little afraid to do it, but aren't we glad she finally got the strength and brought it! And, then at her "early retirement" decides to reinvent herself! Women in Hollywood always try to reinvent themselves and succeed, so why can't we? (Maybe I am trying to do it through this little blog?) As for Minny well...you gotta love her because she just don't give a shit!! Literally!!! And, I truly respect her for being Miss Celia's friend when no one else would. Oh Miss Celia...just another
woman trying to find her place in this world. All Miss Celia wanted was a friend (maybe one who is not quick to pass judgement) and maybe someone to take her shopping! How hard is that?Which brings up another question... Are we all a little too judgmental?
Mrs. "Bestselling Novel" Stockett, please write us a sequel to The Help!! I know these characters were fictional, but I fell in love with them all! Except Mrs. Hilly Holbrook! She can kick it for all I care! (I may just decide to kick out all my Miss Hilly's, as well!). I even liked Elizabeth in some ways, because she was vulnerable, as we all tend to be, given the occasion, but she really needs to step it up in the Mommy Department!!! I would really like to know how she survived with out her Help or if she kicked Hilly out of her life and had the privilege of hiring Abileen back with the condition that she (Elizabeth) had to treat her with some respect (and not make her wear those stockings!)? I wonder if strong-willed Miss Skeeter survives in the big city (her way of re-inventing herself and with all that shopping she probably won't be doing) and what her next book will be? Can't you imagine how much money her first book would have made (I guess Mrs. Stockett has a good feelin!). I also wonder what Minny becomes without that deadbeat husband, if Miss Celia is unanimously voted in as the new president of the Junior League and the sad issues behind Lou Anne Templeton! I even wonder what happens to ole Stuart. In a way I liked him for Skeeter, but cheered when her mother said, "Don't let him cheapen you!"
Ok, maybe, I have now told you too much! Maybe this is Mrs. Stockett's way of telling us there will be a sequel?! Let's all hope because I cried when I finished this beautifully written Southern novel...I did not want it to be over! (Law...someone could write a book about our little slice of life, too!)
Do we compare ourselves to these women (no matter black or white, good or bad) or have we been like them at some point in our life? Maybe...just a little...or a lot?! No matter the color of our skin, the price of our house, the size of our jeans, the brand of our sunglasses (we hide behind) or the schools our children go to, if we can take anything away from reading this book, for me it would be that we are all just God's equal children and not that much separates us (not even for the Hilly's!!!) Thank you Miss Skeeter (and Mrs. Stockett) for trying to make a change and giving us permission to re-invent ourselves!!!
"We are just two people. Not that much separates us. Not nearly as much as I'd thought." - Kathryn Stockett
XOXO,
Dixie Chic
This is a quote from Kathryn Stockett's bestseller The Help. But, if you missed it, that is because it was in the "Too Little, Too Late" section after "The Acknowledgements". Not even a part of the novel, but this quote from Kathryn Stockett's own words, spoke to me the most! It is so true, on so many levels! Although Mrs. Stockett was speaking of the difference in White and Black Women in the South, while I was reading this amazing manuscript, I could not help but analyze my own relationships with my friends and other women in my little world and wondered what separates us?
Then, I started asking myself some questions. Do I treat everyone equally? Or, do I only care about my own little group of friends? Who is really important to me, who makes me feel as equally important to them (no matter the social status, income level or neighborhood they live in)? Do I support my friends as much as I should or do I tend to show my selfish side a little, yet unintentionally? Are some people really not worth my time anymore or do I continue to try to keep up the friendship (even though they aren't putting up the effort)? What am I really worth to them? Do the people in my life share the same ideals and goals? Am I being the best possible person, daughter, sister, mother, wife, friend that I can possibly be and who is helping me accomplish that? Am I helping them accomplish that same goal? Because isn't that really what is important in life? Or, am I asking all these things because I hear other women asking these questions?
Although I would not consider myself a Hilly Holbrook (and there are several in our area who need to eat a slice of some "humble chocolate custard pie") but are there some Hilly's in my life that I need to get rid of so that I can be my best possible self? Am I an Elizabeth who
seems to be a pushover to people, like Hilly, and just longing to be accepted for who I am (homemade slipcovers and all!)? But, what about Skeeter who is a strong woman who just sits back, analyzes and wants and decides to make a little change in the world (or maybe just her little world!) no matter the consequences. As for another character we unfortunately did not hear much about, Lou Anne Templeton, who I believe just could not take the pressures of life anymore and attempted to take her own. I wish we could have heard more of her story! This all sounds a little too familiar...even almost 50 years later!
Then there is Abileen and Minny! Both of these women are amazing and have been through so much! I don't want to go in to too much detail for those of you who have not had the pleasure of soaking in this amazing "must-read". But, Abileen has so much to say, a little afraid to do it, but aren't we glad she finally got the strength and brought it! And, then at her "early retirement" decides to reinvent herself! Women in Hollywood always try to reinvent themselves and succeed, so why can't we? (Maybe I am trying to do it through this little blog?) As for Minny well...you gotta love her because she just don't give a shit!! Literally!!! And, I truly respect her for being Miss Celia's friend when no one else would. Oh Miss Celia...just another
woman trying to find her place in this world. All Miss Celia wanted was a friend (maybe one who is not quick to pass judgement) and maybe someone to take her shopping! How hard is that?Which brings up another question... Are we all a little too judgmental?
Mrs. "Bestselling Novel" Stockett, please write us a sequel to The Help!! I know these characters were fictional, but I fell in love with them all! Except Mrs. Hilly Holbrook! She can kick it for all I care! (I may just decide to kick out all my Miss Hilly's, as well!). I even liked Elizabeth in some ways, because she was vulnerable, as we all tend to be, given the occasion, but she really needs to step it up in the Mommy Department!!! I would really like to know how she survived with out her Help or if she kicked Hilly out of her life and had the privilege of hiring Abileen back with the condition that she (Elizabeth) had to treat her with some respect (and not make her wear those stockings!)? I wonder if strong-willed Miss Skeeter survives in the big city (her way of re-inventing herself and with all that shopping she probably won't be doing) and what her next book will be? Can't you imagine how much money her first book would have made (I guess Mrs. Stockett has a good feelin!). I also wonder what Minny becomes without that deadbeat husband, if Miss Celia is unanimously voted in as the new president of the Junior League and the sad issues behind Lou Anne Templeton! I even wonder what happens to ole Stuart. In a way I liked him for Skeeter, but cheered when her mother said, "Don't let him cheapen you!"
Ok, maybe, I have now told you too much! Maybe this is Mrs. Stockett's way of telling us there will be a sequel?! Let's all hope because I cried when I finished this beautifully written Southern novel...I did not want it to be over! (Law...someone could write a book about our little slice of life, too!)
Do we compare ourselves to these women (no matter black or white, good or bad) or have we been like them at some point in our life? Maybe...just a little...or a lot?! No matter the color of our skin, the price of our house, the size of our jeans, the brand of our sunglasses (we hide behind) or the schools our children go to, if we can take anything away from reading this book, for me it would be that we are all just God's equal children and not that much separates us (not even for the Hilly's!!!) Thank you Miss Skeeter (and Mrs. Stockett) for trying to make a change and giving us permission to re-invent ourselves!!!
"We are just two people. Not that much separates us. Not nearly as much as I'd thought." - Kathryn Stockett
XOXO,
Dixie Chic
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