Pink, Green, and Southern

4 years of blogging

2012-01-29T05:00:00.000-05:00

I started this blog in 2008. Four years ago, I had no idea where my life was going. I started this blog as a way to vent, as something to entertain myself with, a way to talk about the clothes I love without irritating all of my friends with them, and just to document my life. I had no idea that it would still be here 4 years later. In the past four years I have

Left the retail industry
Picked out the perfect dog
Started and finished nursing school
Got engaged and married to the love of my life
Moved out of my dad's house
Grown up in a way I never would have thought
Started my first nursing job

I have "met" some truly fabulous people through this world and I wouldn't take it back for anything. The only thing I regret is the fact that my blog has become less personal over time.

I hope y'all continue to read and grow with me. And thank you to you all who have stuck with me through these years!!

Favorites right now

2012-01-24T05:30:00.000-05:00

This time of year my skin and hair just seem blah. These are the products that I'm loving right now to get me through until spring.

Eucerin Calming Creme

YSL :VOLUPTÉ SHEER CANDY Glossy Balm Crystal Color in Lucious Cherry

Living Proof Shampoo and Conditioner

Urban Decay Naked Eyeshadow Pallet

Loreal Sublime Bronze One Day Tanner

The mantel

2012-01-23T07:16:00.000-05:00

I think if there is one thing in this house that was most difficult for me to decorate, it was our mantel. I think I've finally figured it out. I'm not 100% sure about it, but for now I'm pretty happy.

The gray vases were a refinished project. They used to be bubblegum pink. The mirror is the one thing that needs to be replaced for sure. We need a larger one. The Tiffany candlesticks were a wedding gift (a fabulous one. Thanks Beth!) And the other glass containers are from TJ Maxx and the vase fillers were a wedding gift from the in-laws. The frame is from Hobby Lobby.

Do you think it looks okay?

Dump time

2012-01-21T10:02:00.001-05:00

I feel like all I do is work as of lately, so that would lead to the lack of interesting posting.
We booked a trip to the Grove Park Inn for my birthday this year! I can't wait!!

I am trying hard to resist the new spring clothes that are coming out until March. It is VERY hard. Everything I've seen so far is so super cute.
I'm currently lusting after the Nikon J1 camera in white. I don't need a huge, fancy camera but I would like a nice one (and I would like to have it and get some practice before our trip to Asheville in May).

Just because you're getting married, it doesn't mean that we want to read a new facebook status about it every day. We get it.
Our dogs are shedding enough fur to cover a spare dog every week. I mad an executive decision to have them shave at the beginning of March. The fur is OOC. We sweep and vacuum at least 3 times a week and we still have this much fur. Gross.

We got a Costco membership a couple of weeks ago. We are officially a married couple.
Speaking of being a married couple, I FINALLY put our wedding announcement in the newspaper. Mostly because I am a procrastinator.
I got bangs last week. I'm already over them. That is part of the reason I about died when I saw this video (but only part of the reason).
I can't seem to get my pinterest pictures to ever imbed in my blog posts. I don't know what I'm doing wrong. Any helpful hints would be greatly appreciated.

TopShop Top

2012-01-15T10:06:00.002-05:00

I saw this top on pinterest and immediately had to have it. It was one of those moments that I knew if I didn't order it, I would regret it. So hopefully this pretty thing will be headed to my side of the pond very soon!

I can't wait to wear it this summer with my white jeans and some gold sandals. It might be perfect for my birthday trip to Asheville!

Picture from Design Darling

kate spade=love

2012-01-07T13:28:00.000-05:00

It's no small secret that I love kate spade. And by love, I mean it's like the designers read my mind. While the prices may be a little high, I was always taught "quality over quantity." My favorite husband took the hint and bought me the Ola boots for Christmas. I would wear them every day if I could.

Here are some of my favorites from their new things on the website. I'm in the market for a new purse, so that's what keeps catching my eyes, but there are some other things I would love to have (Valentine's day isn't too far away!)

The Cobble Hill Leslie

Gold Coast Small Shimmer Maryanne (Can you tell I'm really into nude right now?)

Tasha Flat (in our wedding colors!)

Vanessa Wedge (I'm pretty much obsessed with these shoes.)

Tiff Top

And my favorite...the Mrs. necklace.

...

2012-01-01T20:58:00.002-05:00

I've started this post about 4 different times and just didn't know how much to share or what to even say. Our family and our community suffered a major loss last Tuesday. Another blogger, whom I have never met, really wrote so well about this, I'm going to link to her post.

I don't really feel comfortable putting much else about this on my blog. Thankfully Travis is okay, but words cannot express how sad we are about Scott and for his wife, kids, and family.

I'll be back to regular fluffy posting soon, just bear with me.

Christmas Music

2011-12-12T07:00:00.000-05:00

I'm loving Zooey Deschanel's Christmas CD, A Very She and Him Christmas. It has a different sound, but I really like it.

You should check it out!

Its time put on makeup, Its time to dress up right

2011-12-11T09:03:00.001-05:00

I finally got to see the Muppet movie last night! I can promise you that the soundtrack will be in my possession by the end of them week. It was everything I expected and more.

I inhertied the love of the Muppets from my parents. My mom had a Ralph puppet that she got for Christmas long before I was born. Ralph sat in my room growing up. I was the perfect age for the Muppet Babies

when I was younger and I remember watching reruns of the Muppet show growing up. There is something so loveable and funny about those silly puppets.

Miss Piggy, of course, was my favorite.

I'm pretty sure she had some influence on who I am as a person. Beaker was always my other favorite muppet.

If you trust my opinion, I say go see the movie!!

Hurt Feelings

2011-12-10T13:03:00.001-05:00

I've always gotten my feelings hurt easily, but I'm usually one to get over it pretty quickly. I also am not one to put very personal things on this blog but something has been weighing on me lately. I try to put myself out there and do nice things for other people. There were some sacrifices that I made for our wedding to avoid hurting other's feelings and that sacrifice ended up with me in tears more than a couple of times. Now there is something else going on that is really hurtful, but I'm trying to be the bigger person and not let it affect me. I also know that they say imitation is a form of flattery, but come on; there are only so many similarities that can be coincidence.

I wish I could not take into account others feelings so much when I make decisions, because clearly most other people don't think like I do.

Sorry if this post was rambling and didn't make much sense. It made me feel better to get that out.

Ornaments are hung....

2011-12-09T10:59:00.001-05:00

This year is our first real tree together as a married couple, so it's nice to have some of my favorite ornaments on the tree!

It was not easy to get the precious dogs to pose together in front of the tree. Hoagie kept trying to make a run for it!

This has been my favorite ornament since I was a little girl.

Flamingos are my favorite. Of course I have to have a Christmas flamingo on the tree!

My mother passed along her love of Radko ornaments to me. This is my favorite one of my mom's. It's Santa in a bathtub if you can't see it well.

Another of my favorite Radko ornaments

These are our first two ornaments we've gotten as a married couple. The bottom one is from our honeymoon in St. Lucia.

I love people's themed trees, but I don't have the creativity or the talent to make a pretty one, so this is how I like our tree!

Hope everyone is enjoying the Christmas season!

Living room

2011-12-06T16:29:00.001-05:00

I slowly removed wallpaper and painted most of our house before we got married in June. There was one thorn in my paw and that was the living room. It was big, had wallpaper border and ugly brown carpet. I've posted about our large fireplace/mantel problem (which I haven't really solved, but I'll deal with that after Christmas). One obstacle I had to overcome was a paint color. Another obstacle was the furniture. It took about 2 months to find the right paint color, but I am SO, SO happy with the one I settled on. It's a Behr color called "Pensive Sky", but it's Valspar interior satin paint. The furniture problem was solved (for awhile) by the Urban Outfitters/Anthropologie auction that I went to in November. I purchased the two ikat print chairs for an absolute steal. Actually, thinking back on it, I got all of the furniture in the living room for a steal. We bought the rug from Pottery Barn.

Here are the before and after pictures!

Gracious Losers

2011-12-02T06:05:00.001-05:00

I'm not sure about the rest of you, but I am SO over this Clemson/Carolina crap. Every time I get on FB or Twitter someone is going back and forth about it. It should be a fun thing. An instate rivalry that happens once a year. Instead it's turned into this ugly name-calling argument that is redic. Clemson, be a gracious loser. We beat you. Say, "Good game! You guys deserved to win," because when you beat us, that's what I usually hear. Instead all I've heard for almost a week is how many times Clemson has beat Carolina in the history of the rivalry. Now, this whole rant thing by Clemson's coach is everywhere. It wasn't nice, but it wasn't terribly mean either. He said some crappy things, but I'm sure Steve Spurrier has said some crappy things too.

It's a game. Get over it.

I still love my Gamecocks, though!

Thankful for my husband!

2011-11-24T09:00:00.000-05:00

1 year ago today my favorite husband proposed! It's been a whirlwind year, but I wouldn't change it for the world! I know people think Thanksgiving was a strange day to get engaged, but it was perfect for us and perfect timing after 9 years of dating! It will always be our special holiday! We will celebrate 10 years of being together on the 29th (I know, seriously, we could have a 9 year old child!) I love you, T-rav!

Product review

2011-11-14T14:13:00.001-05:00

I was recently contacted about doing a product review for Misikko, which is an online store that specializes in hair products. Normally I don't do sponsored product reviews, but this one sounded great. I was sent the HANAair Professional hair dryer to try out.

I think this hair dryer puts out almost as much power as our leaf blower! It dried my hair in less than 10 minutes where my normal hair dryer takes up to 15. The really noticeable difference is how shiny my hair looked after I used it! I couldn't get over the difference the dryer made in how healthy my hair looks.

Misikko not only sells Hanaair hair dryers, but they have a lot of Chi hairdryers and other flatirons as well. Per usual, customer service is a big decision maker in whether or not I love a company and Misikko passed my test! They were attentive and quickly shipped the big goodie box

that they sent me. I definitely recommend them to my friends and readers and will shop with them again!

*Note: I did receive a free hairdryer to review as compensation for this post.

Pre-Wedding

2011-11-10T06:00:00.000-05:00

Travis bought me this Lilly dress as a wedding gift. Love it!

Love Tasha! She is the best hairdresser ever!

My favorite picture of Travis. Totally sums up his personality.

Wedding recap: Rehearsal Dinner

2011-11-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

Our rehearsal dinner was held at a local restaurant. We had a great time with family and friends and it really set the tone for the following day.

Wedding post time! Rehearsal!

2011-11-08T06:30:00.000-05:00

So I'm a little behind on posting stuff about the wedding. Between the new job and being married, posting about the wedding got shoved to the wayside. Here are some of my favorite pictures from the rehearsal and the rehearsal dinner. My dress was from Lands End Canvas and my shoes were Sperry (if anyone is curious about those types of things). I got the bow from the kids department in Dillards.

Holy adrenaline rush

2011-11-07T17:59:00.001-05:00

I had my first auction experience on Saturday and it was so much fun! The Urban Outfitters/Anthropologie distribution center is located about 30 minutes from where I live. They do an auction of all the returned items that are sellable. And by sellable I mean they sell anything from flawless furniture to broken mirrors. The whole experience was a little overwhelming, but I ended up with some great pieces. My pièce de résistance was this rug:

Which currently retails on the website for $898 and I paid...get ready for this....a whopping $100 for! Seriously. There is a teeny, tiny pick in the middle of the rug, but nothing to fret over.

I also purchased this runner,

which is no longer on the website but others that are similar in size and construction sell for around $300, whereas I paid $50.

I purchased this mirror that has a small crack in it. By small crack, it took 3 people 5 minutes to actually find the crack. I don't know how much it retails for, but I paid $15. Plus it reminds me of something that would be on that Once Upon a Time show, which I love!

I can understand spending full price on these items and being unhappy with a flaw in them, but to pay a fraction of the retail price, I think the flaw it worth it.

I purchased some other things that I will show as we get the living room finished, but this is it for now! I hope you had a great weekend too!

Wedding Pictures!

2011-10-29T16:32:00.001-04:00

I am so very excited that our wedding pictures finally came! I will be posting pictures as time allows, but until then, here is a few sneaks!

Our best friends' wedding!

2011-10-25T11:13:00.001-04:00

I didn't want to post anything on my blog because everyone we knew was going to be out of town and some people are creepers, but we were in Edisto Island, SC last weekend for our best friends' wedding. T-rav's best friend, Adam married one of my best friends, Brittany. I told T-rav on the way home that I'm glad we got married first, because there was no topping their wedding! It was absolutely perfect in every way. The rehearsal dinner was an oyster roast and low country boil underneath the house that the bridal party stayed in. It was so much fun! Also, because Edisto is so small, everyone could drink and have a good time.

The morning of the wedding started out with the girls getting their hair done (we won't post pictures of that because I went home and refixed mine). Then we got ready at our house and headed to Prospect Hill where the wedding was held. Ohmygoodness, was this place beautiful. It looked like something out of Forrest Gump. I have NEVER seen such a beautiful place.

After the wedding, we partied the night away.

We love you Adam and Brittany! Best of luck!!

OOTD: Fall Transition

2011-10-20T15:00:00.001-04:00

I hate days like today. The weather looks pretty from inside but as soon as you walk out you realize that summer really is over. I had a lot of errands to run today, so I didn't want to wear a jacket outside and get hot inside, so I settled on a fleece vest. Perfect for transition!

Vest: Lands End circa 2010

T-shirt: Target circa 2005

Scarf: Target circa 2 weeks ago

Jeans: Joe's Petite Provocateur circa 2007

Shoes: Puma circa 2005

Watch: Michael Kors circa 2011

I hope to have a fun post after this weekend! Y'all just have to wait until Monday for it!

kate spade spring 2012

2011-10-13T08:43:00.003-04:00

I'll take one of each. Please and Thank you.

I can't wait for spring!

Perfect fall Saturday.

2011-10-10T07:00:00.000-04:00

EARLY Saturday morning we got up and headed to Columbia to see the Gamecocks wipe out Kentucky. The weather could not have been more perfect. Here is the one picture T-rav and I took that day.

We also went to a party honoring our Bff's BK and Adam. We really had so much fun and had delicious low country boil. I do love some low country boil. Unfortunately I didn't take any pictures on Saturday night, but we had fun. I actually wore the same outfit that I wore to the game but just switched to a mustard colored scarf and added my jean jacked.

The weather has been so nice lately! I love having the windows open. It just makes everything seem so much more fresh!

Weekend project

2011-10-09T16:57:00.002-04:00

So I've been very unproductive(is that a word?) when it comes to the house since we got married. I painted some shelves and the mantel, but other than that the house-updating has been at a standstill. Until this weekend. As I've mentioned before, I'm at a loss with what to do with our fireplace and mantel. We have been updating all of the brass fixtures in the house to nickle or stainless and our fireplace guard was still brass.

So using my favorite product (spray paint), I thought I would try to update it without buying something new. And it worked! I'm so thrilled with the results. I've walked into the living room several times today to look at it.

By trying a $4 can of spray paint on something we were prepared to replace if it didn't work, we saved at least $96.

I didn't take pictures of the process, but I used Rustoleum High Heat spray paint from Lowe's in black. I taped off the glass, which was the most difficult part of the whole process, and sprayed away. I did 2 thin coats of paint to prevent drips and I was finished!

Next we are painting the ceiling and walls. Then the carpet is coming up! I can't wait!!

Party time, Excellent!

2011-10-01T06:30:00.000-04:00

I am headed to Charleston today to celebrate one of my favorite people! BK is getting married on October 22 to T-rav's best friend. We are going to have a night of debauchery and it is going to be fabulous! Here are some of my favorite pictures of us with out best friends from over the years!

Senior year of high school

Senior Prom 2003

Freshman year of college '03

Sometime in college '05 maybe?

Clemson/Carolina 2004

Steeplechase 2007

USC vs. Florida 2007(?)

Steeplechase 2009

My Birthday, 2009

I'm so happy for you, Brittany! And I can't wait to share your special day with you! Yay!!

New phone cover

2011-09-30T09:54:00.001-04:00

I decided that I need to update my phone cover. I've had 2 kate spade covers for my iphone 4. When I drop my phone with the kate spade covers (which happens a lot), they pop apart and my phone goes flying across the floor. Plus, I was a little disappointed in the quality of the covers. The color and pattern was flaking off and it was starting to look really bad. This is the cover I am getting rid of:

In steps the Preppy Princess. I ordered a Lilly case and couldn't be happier! I ordered this stuff on Saturday and it came in the mail on Wednesday! I can already tell that I'm going to be happier with this cover.

Thank you, Preppy Princess!!

2011-09-24T08:00:00.001-04:00

I had a post of my favorite things scheduled, but blogger decided they only liked 2 of my favorite things and erased 3/4 of my post. Grrr...

Happy Saturday! Go Gamecocks!!

Winter shorts

2011-09-23T10:14:00.000-04:00

I was super excited to find some winter shorts that I love at Old Navy last night! I can't wait to wear them. This is how I plan on styling them!

Winter shorts by kec585 featuring long sleeve tops

TV this fall!

2011-09-19T19:05:00.003-04:00

I am so super excited for the new fall programming! I am a TV-addict and DVR has only fueled my addiction. There are a few old shows I'm excited about starting again, but for the most part, I'm ready for a new start! I love Glee, Gossip Girl, and Parenthood but other than that I'm craving some new stuff. Here is what I'm most excited for this fall!

This starts tonight and I'm really looking forward to it!

Mondays on CBS at 8:30.

This looks so cute! I think Zooey Deschanel is adorable and this looks light and funny!

Tuesdays on Fox at 9:00

I think I'm most excited about Pan Am. Love that time period and the costumes look like they are going to be fab! There is something about stewardesses from that time that seem so glamorous to me.

Sundays on Fox at 10:00

The first episode of this was so cute. Christina Applegate, Maya Rudolph, and Will Arnett-do I need to say anything else?

Tuesdays on NBC at 8:00

This show has gotten really bad reviews, but I think it looks funny.

Thursdays on NBC at 9:30

This reminds me of that Pushing Dasies show, which I liked.

Wednesdays on ABC at 8:30

Until I can muster up enough content for a real post....

2011-09-16T22:28:00.002-04:00

I hope you like this as much as my favorite husband and I did!

And...just so you know...my dear husband has all of the ALF seasons on DVD. Seriously.

2011-09-05T22:00:00.000-04:00

So I realized that I never did an official post on it, but I got a job! I did a week of hospital orientation last week and I start on the floor this week. I will be a RN on a mostly cardiac floor in a local hospital. I'm super excited!

I put up all of my summer clothes tonight. It is always such a sad day when I have to pull out the dark colors. I'm definitely not one of those people who love fall.

I desperately need a haircut. I always put it off and my hair is gross right now. Maybe next week...

So the living room re-do is on hold due to lack of motivation. I did find some couches I like online, so we need to check them out in person and see if they are okay.

That's all I have for now! Hope you had a great weekend!!

Accent

2011-08-31T22:27:00.001-04:00

I've seen some of these around the blog world and on twitter, so I thought I would finally bite the bullet and do a vlog. The point of this one is to hear how different people say words. I can't stand the way I sound recorded so I didn't even listen to this. I hope my voice doesn't burn your ears!

The instructions are to say these words:
Aunt, Route, Wash, Oil, Theater, Iron, Salmon, Caramel, Fire, Water, Sure, Data, Ruin, Crayon, Toilet, New Orleans, Pecan, Both, Again, Probably, Spitting image, Alabama, Lawyer, Coupon, Mayonnaise, Syrup, Pajamas, Caught

And answer these questions:
What is it called when you throw toilet paper on a house?
What is the bug that when you touch it, it curls into a ball?
What is the bubbly carbonated drink called?
What do you call gym shoes?
What do you say to address a group of people?
What do you call the kind of spider that has an oval-shaped body and extremely long legs?
What do you call your grandparents?
What do you call the wheeled contraption in which you carry groceries at the supermarket?
What do you call it when rain falls while the sun is shining?
What is the thing you use to change the TV channel?

I hope I still have readers after this!

House update

2011-08-26T04:00:00.000-04:00

The people who last painted our house make me want scream sometimes. They painted over screws, hinges, and doorknobs. We have replaced almost every doorknob and door hinge in the house (only one more left!) We (I) are slowly but surely painting the whole house. The only room left is our giant living room and I've been avoiding it for a year now. Now that I have a job (yay!) we can really do what we (I) want with the room. The living room consists of a very large room, the entryway, and the hallway that leads to the bedrooms. This also includes the fireplace mantle and the shelves that are attached. I have finally picked a color for the walls and I'm just waiting for my dad to come patch the giant hole in the wall that was just covered up with a piece of painted plywood (you don't even want to know what I think about that!) to begin painting. I've been doing the trim work and discovered that the people who liked to paint over things also LOVED off-white paint.

We are pulling up the carpet as soon as I'm finished painting because we've been told that there is lovely hardwood underneath. The dining room had beautiful floors under the carpet so we are hoping to be pleasantly surprised.

I also had some inspiration and interpreted it to suit my taste.

I'll keep you updated on the progress!

Gamecock Giveaway!

2011-08-24T14:30:00.002-04:00

Visit Let's Be Preppy and enter her fabulous giveaway! She teamed up with the Sassy Palmetto and has a fabulous Gamecock giveaway full of super cute Gamecock stuff! I hope I win!!

Fall Fancy

2011-08-18T15:33:00.003-04:00

Sorry for the lack of posting. I wish I had a good excuse about how I'm so interesting and busy that I don't have time for blogging, but it's more to do with settling into married life. I've been looking for a job and hopefully have something within reach (more on that later). But right now, I just wanted to share my obsession at the moment.

Stefe Shift $188

I am LOVING this Lilly print. I love the dress too. It would be so cute now and then later with tights and a turtleneck.

Wordless Wedding Wednesday

2011-08-03T08:08:00.000-04:00

Michael Kors Jewelry

2011-08-02T09:48:00.000-04:00

While browsing Neiman Marcus I came across the new Michael Kors jewelry line. I have to say, I love it! It has really clean lines and nothing to too obtrusive. I'm very simple when it comes to my choices in jewelry (and by simple I mean that I pretty much wear the same stuff every day and it's not a lot). Here are my favorites! They are available for preorder at Neiman Marcus and will ship by the middle of September.

What to do, what to do...

2011-08-01T18:59:00.001-04:00

Our mantle is the bane of our house's existence.

#1-Its HUGE!
My other problem is that interiors are not my thing, so I'm having some major problems with what to do with it. I am attempting to create some separation between the area with shelves and the actual fireplace mantel. The pictures above the fireplace are clearly not working but other than that, I really don't know what to do. This is where you step in. What do I do?! Any recommendations would be fabulous.

I've pinned some pictures that I like. Here are my favorites so far.

Source: google.com via Kara on Pinterest

Source: southernhospitalityblog.com via Kara on Pinterest

Source: stacynanceinteriors.wordpress.com via Kara on Pinterest

So...tell me what to do!

Crystal Pepsi

2011-07-27T21:24:00.002-04:00

So I was watching a show on the History Channel about soda and it got me thinking...do y'all remember Crystal Pepsi?! From what I could find about it I learned:

It was released in 1992 (which would have put me in the second grade. If I'm not a marketing person's dream I don't know who is. Seriously, I remember more defunct brands than you could imagine!)
It was marketed as a "healthier" drink because it didn't have dyes and was caffeine-free
It has a facebook page and still has a large following
I remember thinking it was really cool, but other than that, I don't remember what it tasted like

Are there any products that were short lived that you loved growing up?

There are no grades of vanity, there are only grades of ability in concealing it. ~Mark Twain

2011-07-23T09:25:00.000-04:00

Ever since I was a little girl with a Minnie Mouse vanity table, I've always wanted another one. Since I finished school in May, I no longer needed a desk, so enters my new vanity table. It is in the extra bedroom along with my childhood furniture. Actually, it kind of looks like I picked my room up and moved it to our new house. I'll give you a tour of the room once we get the bedding and whatnot situated.

Anyway, back to the table! I set my desk up with my makeup and other personal items. I LOVE it! Here it is!

Stop Loafing Around!

2011-07-22T08:25:00.000-04:00

I've always loved the schoolgirl/preppy/classic look. I can remember wearing knee highs, plaid skirts, and loafers when I was younger. Well imagine my delight when I see penny loafers in multiple places for the fall! I'm loving that the loafer is coming back!!

Anthropologie Muted Shades Loafers $70

Tory Burch penny loafer $250

You don't get much more classic than the Bass Weejun. I remember my mom telling me about how she had to order her first pair from the Greenbrier because they were the only place in WV that sold them then.

Cole Haan Deana $398

J. Crew Biella Patent Loafers $228

Are you loving this trend?!

New marriage, new things!

2011-07-21T12:54:00.001-04:00

We purchased new bedding to go in our bedroom. T-rav had a very many comforter set and it was not really my style. Plus there was no color in the room because the walls are gray and the set was black. We decided on the Monreale Paisley from Pottery Barn. It has a lot of colors in it, but they are not too bright or jarring. Another reason we (I) picked this is because we have two black dogs and their fur gets everywhere. Cricket thinks she owns the bed in the mornings, so we needed something that was easily washable that wouldn't show much fur. The quilt at the end of the bed is the PB Essential Quilt in Porcelain Blue. So far I'm obsessed with the new bedding. Here are some pictures!

Please ignore the stuff hiding under the bed. Also, yes, Cricket has her own pillow on her bed (that she really puts her head on. She's not spoiled at all.

I didn't really notice how off the lampshades look until I took these pictures. We may be getting new ones soon.

We also purchased a rug to go in our living room. It's the one room in the house that hasn't been touched since we bought the house last year. Here is a peak at the rug and I'll keep you updated as the room progresses!

New Product Love

2011-07-19T06:59:00.000-04:00

Benefit Total Moisture $38

I was out of moisturizer and decided to try something new. I've used Philosophy's Hope in a Jar since 2007 and I thought it was time for a change. So I recently purchased Benefit's Total Moisture Face Cream and I don't think I'll ever look back. It isn't too heavy, but I can tell that it moisturizes better than the HIAJ. It DEFINITELY smells better. I'll keep you updated, but as of now, it is my moisturizer of choice! I can't wait to try more of Benefit's skincare products. Their makeup has been one of my favorites since college. I remember converting some of my friends to the brand because I was such a fan! It doesn't hurt that their packaging is so cute, either!

Life update

2011-07-18T10:38:00.000-04:00

So, I should have taken some more time putting my things and the wedding gifts away because now I'm out of stuff to do! As you know, I graduated from nursing school and passed the NCLEX (the test you have to take to be a nurse) in May. I put off looking for a job until after the wedding because I just didn't want to deal with that whilst wedding planning. Now, though, I am SO BORED! Normally, I would just shop, but since I have no money, I can't shop. This isn't a post meant to make you feel sorry for me, because I don't feel sorry for myself! I just am ready to work!

Otherwise, married life is great! I am SO happy that T-rav and I did not live together before we got married. It has been great starting our life together. I've been cooking a lot and cleaning the house is an ongoing job. The dogs have been going on walks almost daily and I've gotten back into the gym. I'll leave you with a picture of my bridesmaids and I from the photobooth at the wedding. We are so happy we had that there. Everyone seemed to love it and we got some fabulous pictures! If anyone in the southeast wants a photobooth for an event, look at Oh Snap! They were super easy to work with and everyone got copies of their pictures!

Honeymoon! Warning: Long post!

2011-07-13T16:23:00.002-04:00

For our honeymoon we went to the Sandals Halcyon in St. Lucia. I have been to Mexico a couple of times and my parents have been all over the Caribbean, so I wanted to go somewhere "new". After researching the different resorts, we settled on this one and I'm so glad we did! There are three Sandals resorts on St. Lucia and the Halcyon is by far the smallest. It was a 15 minute shuttle ride to either of the other resorts and you could go to them all day and almost all night. Here are some pictures from the trip!

We inadvertently got a private shuttle from the airport to the resort. We were the only people from our flight who were staying at the Halcyon so they didn't fill up a transfer bus. They stuck us in a private car (for free!)and sent us on our merry way. Our driver stopped at this point and gave us St. Lucia's official beer, Piton, and took our picture! If you can spare the extra $100, I would say DO IT! We got so much history and information about the people of the island from our driver.

This was our second day there and first day at the beach! We actually only spent the day on the beach this day and the rest of the time at the pool. The ocean in St. Lucia is pretty, but at our resort the water was kind of cloudy. I do not like going in water where I cannot see my feet.

View from the beach

There was a steel drum band playing one night. They sounded so good!

After dinner on the second night.

Our room.

This was one of those 2 person ocean kayaks. It was not something I would normally do, but it was really fun!

The cats. There were cats EVERYWHERE. This one especially liked our room and us, so we kind of adopted her for the week. We were told her name was Garfield. She was so sweet.

This was our favorite bar and bartenders. What he is pouring, however, was the worst thing I've ever tasted in my life. It was some kind of spiced rum. Disgusting!

On Friday we went on a trip with the Julian Boat tours. There were a couple other tours that were similar to this one, but they only took people from our resort and not the others. There were 5 couples that went. They took us in the little coves all along the island and showed us different places. This was one of the coves.

Travis and I in front of the Piton mountains.

A bat cave in one of the coves. You could hear them. Gross.

This was Kennedy. He was our tour guide and we ate lunch at his house that day. Yum!

Doesn't this look like it's out of Lost?

At the volcano's waterfall.

We went to the sulfur springs national park at the Piton volcano. It has a really hot bath and volcanic clay that is supposed to be great for your skin. All I have to say is that it smelled like rotten eggs x1000.

This is Kennedy's house where we had lunch. It was the best meal we had in St. Lucia!

The walkway to the house.

This is the group that went on the excursion with us. It was so much fun!

This was before dinner one night at the Pier restaurant.

More cats!

We went on an ocean tricycle one day. It was a lot harder than it looked!

A very unflattering picture of me, but this was before dinner at the other resort, the Grand.

This is the view from the Grand. Very pretty!

Travis and I in the hammock!

Saying goodbye to Garfield! This was our last night. I definitely got her a whole fish sandwich that night. She was so sweet!

Waiting on the shuttle back to the airport. So sad to be leaving!

Just a peek at the wedding weekend!

2011-07-05T20:58:00.001-04:00

We are back from the honeymoon and I'm trying to get everything settled before I have to really start looking for a job! Here are a few pictures from the wedding that I stole from Facebook. I can't wait to see the professional ones! Enjoy!!

My matron of honor and I at the rehearsal dinner

Watching the gamecocks after the rehearsal dinner and before saying goodbye for the night!

3 of my bridesmaids at the hotel while we were getting ready!

My favorite apps

2011-06-19T19:27:00.000-04:00

Can I just begin by saying that I'm getting married in SIX days! Holy moly!

I thought I would do a post of my favorite iPhone apps because I spend the majority of my day on my phone.

1. Facebook. I don't think this really needs an explanation.

2. The Weather Channel- I check the weather every morning when I'm laying(lying? I never know which one) in bed.

3. ShopShop- This is my favorite list app. I use it ALL of the time. If I don't make a list, I can't remember anything!

4. Hipstamatic- This used to be my go-to camera app, but it is quickly being replaced by the Instagram app (It's on the next page).

5. Echofon- My twitter app. When I remember to tweet something! Follow me! My user name is KEC585.

6. Words with Friends- This is like twitter with me. I play it when I remember. You can play with me though (Kec585) and I don't cheat!

7. Instagram- Seriously this is probably my favorite app. The picture on the background was taken in Folly Beach with this app. It's more fun than hipstamatic because you get to pick what the pictures look like rather than playing the guessing game with the different film and flashes.

I have a lot of folders on the second and third pages. Most of them are games and entertainment. I do have a whole shopping folder.

I have to say, I've purchased things with the eBay app, Amazon, the Ruelala app, and the Gilt one. Majorly convient. Also, if you are a beauty insider, the sephora app keeps track of all of your purchases so when you're in the store, you can remember the right shade/product. Love it!

What are some of your favorite apps?

Wordless Wedding Wednesday: Bachelorette Party

2011-06-15T09:57:00.000-04:00

Summer Reading

2011-06-14T10:19:00.001-04:00

So I've been putting reading on the side for the past two years because of nursing school. I'm not saying I haven't read anything in the past 2 years (I've read The Help, South of Broad, Water for Elephants, and a lot of the other IT books) but I just haven't had the time to read whatever I want and whenever I want. I like to read all kinds of books, but here are the ones I'm excited about reading this summer and on the honeymoon!

Mary Kay Andrews Summer Rental

I absolutely LOVE her books. They are always so fun and so southern!

Jodi Picoult Mercy

I love her books and I'm not quite sure how I've missed this one over the years

Jackie Collins Poor Little Bitch Girl

Her books are always fun beach reads!

What are you looking forward to reading this summer?

Photo Credit

Wedding Wednesday: Registry Items

2011-06-08T05:18:00.001-04:00

I don't know if y'all know this, but when I graduated from college I worked at Dillards. Even though I had a fashion merchandising degree they placed me in the home department. I learned a lot about china and bedding. It made registering for my wedding very easy because I had a lot of time at work to figure out what I liked and did not like.

I have to say that I recommended the Wilton Armetale brand of entertaining dishes. They can go on the grill, stovetop, in the oven, and even in the freezer. Plus they are pretty! Needless to say, I was excited about registering for my own Wilton Armetale

One thing I knew that I did NOT want to register for was formal china. We don't have the space for it right now and there are not any china patterns that really knock my socks off. We did register for everyday dishes (which I'm happy to say thanks to showers, we have our complete set!) They are out of stock online now, but this is what our dishes look like:

One thing that wasn't on our registry that we got (that I am SO excited about and can't wait to use) is a Jimmy Buffet Margarita machine! Yay!

I hope you enjoyed some of my favorite registry items! We are both so thankful to have such loving people in our lives that want to do such nice things for us!

Product Review: Sperry Topsider

2011-06-07T09:29:00.000-04:00

Ontop of sponsoring a giveaway on my blog, the very kind people at Sperry sent me a pair of their new Cloud Logo Authentic Original 2-Eye Boat Shoe to review in the Liberty Ditsy print. First of all, if you have read my blog for any time you know I love Liberty of London fabric.

After pulling the shoes out of the box, I was in love! Then I put them on and I was really in love! They are super soft on the inside and the leather is a nice shade of light tan. Plus the inside is lined in that cute striped vintage-looking material. I have worn them a couple of times running errands and they have not rubbed a single blister on my heel. These are possibly the best Sperrys I've ever owned.

I definitely recommend these shoes! You should go get some!!

Yay!

2011-06-02T11:27:00.000-04:00

So as of Tuesday, I am (un)officially a registered nurse! I say unofficially because I have to wait until I get my license number to be official, but I passed the NCLEX!

I've learned one thing that pushes my buttons a little bit about the NCLEX. It's an overview of what you have done for the past 2-3 years. I don't get why people try to "study" for it. By the time you take the test you either know that information or you don't. I could understand studying for it if you failed. But seriously, how much more information are you going to learn in a week before the test?!

Sorry if that offended anyone!

I'm off to Folly Beach this weekend with one of my bridesmaids to celebrate passing boards! I hope y'all have a great weekend!!

Wedding Wednesday: Inivitations

2011-06-01T09:34:00.000-04:00

As I said on the last Wedding Wednesday, I picked my invitations in about 10 minutes. Yes, I know they are important to "set the theme of the wedding" and all that nonsense. So I think it's close enough to the wedding to reveal the invites. Unfortunately, I did not take a picture of the envelopes with the lovely calligraphy that my neighbor so kindly did for us. (Trust me, it was gorgeous!) So anyway, here is our inivitation!

Winner!

2011-05-30T10:31:00.000-04:00

The winner of the Sperry giveaway is Miss Marianne!

Congratulations! I'll be emailing you the information about the prize soon!!

OOTD: Almost summer!

2011-05-26T13:37:00.002-04:00

Here's my outfit for today!

Top: Lilly Pulitzer (circa 2007?)
Pants: Citizens of Humanity
Shoes: Steve Madden

Please ignore my lack of camera skills. It's just not one of my strengths!

Don't forget to enter my giveaway! It ends Friday night!

Wedding Wednesday: ONE MONTH-ONE MONTH-ONE MONTH!

2011-05-25T12:26:00.000-04:00

(I googled one month and this is what came up. It made me laugh, so here you go!)

HOLY MOLY. We are forreal getting married in exactly one month. Good thing I have my shit together and have planned this whole wedding, right?! Wrong. T-rav's mom has probably done 3/4 of the planning for this wedding. I am eternally grateful for this situation and for her! Y'all, wedding planning is not easy. Nor is it cheap. Nor is it fun. It's a bunch of numbers and dates and times. All of which are things I'm not very good at. I am good at, though, making decisions and not looking back. Example, "That's a cute invitation, lets order that one." Seriously how my invitations were picked and ordered in 10 minutes. Example #2, "That's a pretty cake, how many people does it feed?" "250." "Okay, let's get that one. One layer yellow, one layer funfetti, and one layer key lime." Done.

To be perfectly honest, I'm ready for the wedding, but I'm more ready to be married. I can't wait to start my life with T-rav and FINALLY move in together! (I know you're thinking, "who doesn't live together before they get married now-a-days?" We don't. Just how it worked.)

Sorry this post is kind of a brain dump, but thats how my brain feels right now.

Don't forget to enter my giveaway below! You have until Friday at 11:59 pm!

I'm alive and a giveaway!

2011-05-19T10:53:00.001-04:00

**I forgot to add the cut off date for the giveaway! It cuts off on Friday!**

I am still alive! I am officially finished with nursing school! Yay!

So I have some exciting news! I was contacted about doing a giveaway for Sperry. Entry is really simple. All you need to do is go to THIS PAGE and enter the sweepstakes to win a trip to Nantucket or some other really great prizes. After you do that, leave me a message letting me know that you did it and then let me know which of these cute shoes you would like to win.

Women's Cloud Logo Authentic Original 2-Eye Boat Shoe - Liberty ditsy floral

Men's Authentic Original Canvas Boat Shoe - Olive

Men's 75th Anniversary CVO – Nantucket Red

Good luck!

Product Reviews

2011-05-05T21:19:00.000-04:00

So I've recently been trying to up my skin care regimen so my skin looks great for the wedding. I've washed my face nightly since I was in the 9th grade (literally I have missed 5 nights since then and could tell you when they were). The face wash I've used has varied, but for the past few years I've used this soap:

And I've been using my Clarisonic brush since December. I don't know if I can tell much of a difference because of it, but my skin feels really clean!

Along with what seems like all of blog world, I have been using the Boscia black mask.

Again, I don't know if it does anything beneficial, but I like how my skin feels when I use it.

The two new products I've been using are Clinique Pore Refining Serum and Boscia Oil Free Daily Hydration with SPF 15.

The Clinique Pore Refining Serum is amazeballs. I don't know when it happened, but at some point in time my pores got a little large for my liking. I've been using this stuff for about 3 weeks now and my pores are noticeably smaller and it makes my skin feel like satin. It's a definite YES from me!

I've been searching for a replacement moisturizer since Lancome discontinued the one I used. Everything was too heavy and I don't like heavy moisturizer. This stuff is great! The only negative is that it has kind of an earthy, Aveda-ish smell. It's not my favorite smell, but hey, what can you do?

I would recommend any of these products to any of my readers!

(I was not compensated for any of these reviews, I just really like all of these products!)

Happy Birthday to Me! (Well, 2 days ago!)

2011-05-03T19:52:00.000-04:00

I was really blessed in the birthday gift department this year! First off, I passed my hard as balls test! Woop! Also, I got all kind of fab stuff. Here is some of the things I got for my birthday!

kate spade: tropica jezibel

If there was ever a purse made for me....

kate spade: Ally Polarized sunglasses

From T-rav: kate spade (noticing a trend here?) phone cover and Tocca Giulietta body cream

My dad got me the Lilly "peel and eat" shift, which I posted about here. He also had my car detailed for me and it looks FABULOUS!

I had an amazing birthday! What is also amazing is that I will be finished with nursing school on Friday! YAY! I am also getting married in less than 2 months. CRAZY!

Hope y'all are doing well!

My day

2011-04-28T15:09:00.000-04:00

So it is no secret that I will pass the "mid" twenties on Sunday. I mean, I guess 26 is still mid, but it doesn't sound like it. It sounds like down hill to me. This reminds me of this

"Well, 23 is old! It's almost 25 which is almost mid-twenties". Which also reminded me that I go off of my dad's insurance on Sunday as well. Well, Captain Procrastination over here decided to wait until the last possible minute to get all of the doctors appointments I could before my insurance runs out. I mean, I'll still have insurance, just not super good, paid for by daddy insurance. (Until I get married, that is.)

Well I went to the doctor for some skin products today, because who wants to actually look their age? I walked out of there with this:

Obagi ELASTILash Eyelash Solution

My doctor swears that it works as well as Latisse but without the darkening of the eyelid. Plus it's a lot cheaper. My eye lashes are already long, but I would like for them to be thicker and longer (who doesn't!). I'll keep you posted on how it works.

Here is a picture of my lashes as of today (4/28). I have on Fiberwig mascara, but it's only a quick swipe, so there really isn't any added length. I like to use it when it rains because even if it gets wet like that it doesn't rub off. You have to take a shower to really get it off, but it is easier than most waterproof mascara.

I also finally got my permanent bottom retainer changed. I say finally because I missed my appointment to have it changed SEVEN YEARS ago. Whatever. It's done now. I also had my two front teeth evened out because years of biting my nails made them uneven.

So that was my day so far!

Wedding Wednesday: Wedding Lines

2011-04-27T08:00:00.000-04:00

It seems like it was fate that I waited this long to get married. As soon as we got engaged some of my favorite brands and designers released their wedding collections. Plus, we also have the whole Royal Wedding connection (They dated for 8 years, we dated for 8 years. She has long brown hair, I have long brown hair...so that means we are practically the same person, right?!) Anyway, here are some of the designer wedding collections that I love the most!

Lovely London

2011-04-25T07:13:00.000-04:00

As the world anxiously awaits the fast approaching Royal wedding (FRIDAY!), I can't help to get excited. London is my absolute favorite place that I've visited in my travels thus far. I loved everything about it (I even liked the food). It's coming up on 5 years since I last visited that lovely city and I can't wait to go back sometime (hopefully sooner than later if we can get that travel bug to bite T-rav!) Here is a look down memory lane of some of my favorite pictures I took in London (A few are from the English countryside too)!!

April is Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month

2011-04-21T09:08:00.000-04:00

"Treat me kindly, my beloved friend, for no heart in the entire world is more grateful for your kindness than mine. Don't be angry with me for long, and don't lock me up as punishment. After all, you have your job, your friends and your entertainment. I only have you."

I saw this today and it made me realize how much I love my dogs. They have their own personalities and habits, but I do love them dearly.

It is so important to rescue dogs. I know pure bred dogs are beautiful and you can usually expect certain characteristics, but saving a dog's life is so important! Cricket and Hoagie were not from a breeder and they are the best dogs in the world! I love my dogs!!

Wedding Wednesday: Honeymoon Bathing Suits

2011-04-20T18:01:00.000-04:00

Since we are headed to St. Lucia for our honeymoon, I've been looking for a new, cute bathing suit to take. ONE new bathing suit. Y'all, it's disgusting how many bathing suits I have, so one new suit will suffice. I am waiting until Vineyard Vines releases their women's swim line before I make any decisions, but these are my favorites so far!

Frolicking Seahorses: Anthropologie

I think this might be the best for the honeymoon because part of the theme of my wedding is blue seersucker!

Seersucker Bikini: J. Crew

Glitter Polka Dot Bikini: Victoria's Secret

Lilly Pulitzer

Splendid Bikini: Nordstrom

Lands End Canvas

Birthday Birthday Birthday!

2011-04-18T16:44:00.000-04:00

It's always a struggle for my Dad to get me a birthday present. He doesn't shop or buy clothes, so he is usually left scratching his head when it comes to my birthday (Which is in 2 weeks).

I had to go to Columbia today to have my fingerprints taken to take the NCLEX. While I was in Columbia I stopped by the mall and guess what they had in my size! My "Peel and Eat" shift! I posted about my love of this print when it was released in January here.

My love of flamingos runs deep. I've loved them since I was about 8-9 years old. What is not to love? They are long, elegant, and PINK! Y'all, I've never seen a Lilly print more suited for me ever. Now I can't wait for my birthday so I can wear it!!

Delurk youself!

2011-04-13T06:06:00.000-04:00

So since I made the mistake of posting my Wedding Wednesday post on Tueday, I decided that this Wednesday will be Delurking Day.

I can see from my Google analytics that people from all over the place read my blog. Some read it a lot. So today is the day to stop and say hi! I promise I'm nice!!

Wedding Wednesday: Showers

2011-04-12T07:00:00.001-04:00

**Ooops! I scheduled this post a day early. My life is insane right now, don't judge me, please!

I had 2 wedding showers in a little over a week. Most of my family lives in WV and we have a lot of family friends there, so my aunt and my mom's bff decided to have a shower for me while I was there. (Can I just say, though, that it SNOWED on me on the way up there. I put my winter stuff up about 3 weeks ago. WTF.)
Anyway, it was a really nice shower and people were really too kind. We even got this:

from my Nana and Pap. SO excited about our Dyson.

I didn't take too many pictures with my camera when I was there, but here is me with two of my cousins:

Then yesterday I had a lingere shower with my bridesmaids and friends. I had so much fun! Here is a picture from my shower of me with my bridal party!

I really feel so loved and so thankful to have all of these people in my life! Thanks to everyone!

Sunnies

2011-04-11T08:47:00.001-04:00

It's no secret that I love sunglasses. I have this weird obsession with them and usually get a new pair about once a year. I would love to add these lovelies to my collection sometime soon (My birthday is in less than a month*hint*!)

These are some of my most worn and favorites (It would take forever to put ALL of them on here!)

I got these Costa del Mar sunglasses when I graduated from USC in 2007. They are my favs for driving because of the polarized lenses.

Every preppy girl needs a pair of Wayfarers. I got these for Christmas in 2007. (Apparently 2007 was a good year for sunglasses!) They are scratched on one of the lenses pretty badly, but sometimes they just go perfectly with an outfit.

My favorite big sunglasses are my kate spade Harper. I wear them all of the time (as long as I can find them!)

Please ignore the chronic bitch face. I was trying to take a picture of my hair.

What are your favorite sunglasses?!

Wedding Wednesday: Best Idea EVER

2011-04-06T04:37:00.002-04:00

We are getting married outside. Outside in the grass. My wedding shoes are not flats or wedges, but pretty thin stiletto heels. My wedding day would not be complete without these shoes.

Stilettos+grass=trouble, right?

The answer to my shoe prayers was found at a little website called SoleMates. Someone clearly had one of those ah-ha Oprah moments when they came up with these. SoleMates are these little plastic pieces that fit around the bottom part of the heel on the shoe. They have a broader base that keeps the shoe from sinking, but they are really not noticeable. I got the clear ones to go on my shoes, but they come in silver, black, gold, and clear.

All I have to say is that I'm pretty dang excited about this product!

(Pictures were borrowed from the SoleMate website and I was not compensated for this post, just really excited!)

Another reason why South Carolina is better than Clemson....

2011-04-02T10:20:00.001-04:00

...South Carolina would NEVER let their students or sports teams be photographed like this.

Camel toe much?

Dresses, Dresses, and More Dresses!

2011-03-31T09:38:00.003-04:00

It's no secret that I'd rather wear a dress than anything else. The spring clothes are not being friendly on my budget with all the cute dresses that are out there. I do have a lot of wedding events to dress for, which is good for my dress addiction, though. This cold snap has left me wanting to wear my cute spring dresses. Here are some of my favorites for this spring and summer that are leaving me longing for the warm temps again!

Edit: This beauty will be arriving in 5-7 days! I wanted it, but when I saw it came in petite I NEEDED it!
Tricolored Shift

Anthropologie

Linka Dress

Trina Turk

Spring Flowers Sheath

Banana Republic

Dreaming of Blue Dress

Modcloth

Floral Peter Pan Collar Dress

Forever 21

Wedding Wednesday: Engagement Picture

2011-03-30T04:15:00.001-04:00

We decided not to have professional engagement pictures taken because we have a short engagement and also because T-rav HATES having his picture taken.

We have a family friend who takes amazing photos and she volunteered (more like I volunteered her) to help us out! Thanks Jackie!!

Here is the picture we are using in the paper if I ever get around to submitting it. I guess with less than 90 days until the wedding, I should probably get on top of that, huh?

Here is another one I really liked, because T-rav is actually laughing in it. I think he looks so cute!

A Little Peek into PGS's Life

2011-03-29T15:40:00.000-04:00

I though this was fun, so I took it from Natalie at Sweet Carolina Girl.

1. Mood: Stressed! I have a pharmacology test tomorrow and pharmacology is hard! Plus I have about a million little wedding details to worry about.

2. When was the last time you bought an actual CD (not downloaded off of iTunes, but a physical disc)?

I definitely bought "Glee 5" at Target on Friday. Love me some Glee!

3. What sounds do you hear right at this very moment?

The dogs barking at something and me typing.

4. Current nail polish:

Fingernails: nothing because I had clinical today and it's a no no

Toenails: Sally Hansen "Pink Blink"

5. Do you sleep with socks on?

I used to ALWAYS sleep with them on, but now I can't stand it

6. I never go a day without _______?

A Coke!

7. Current outfit:

Mammoth Mountain, CA long sleeve T and LEC jeans. No shoes

8. What is your all time favorite lip gloss?

Nars "Risky Business"

9. Where do you keep your cell phone at night?

Under my pillow

10. Weekly goals: Get through this week without having a panic attack! My spring break starts tomorrow at 3:01!

Steeplechase

2011-03-28T11:33:00.000-04:00

I sucked at taking pictures at steeplechase this year. I think I'm going to blame the weather. It was cold and rainy. I'm glad I decided to wear my Revas, though, because I saw quite a few girls bust it in the wet grass with sandals on. Here is a picture I stole from a friend's FB page.

Hope y'all had a great weekend!!

Current Obsession

2011-03-21T21:07:00.000-04:00

Tom Ford Nikita sunglasses.

Be still my heart.

Bullet mishmash!

2011-03-20T14:26:00.001-04:00

School is insane crazy right now, but after this Wednesday things calm down a bit.
I was always so lucky to not have spring allergies (for some reason mine are way worse in the fall), but this year they hit me like a ton of bricks. I've been carrying a box of tissues around with me.
I'm thinking of getting Cricket a "summer cut" again this year. I did it last year because they shaved her leg for her surgery and was tired of her fur being uneven, but I ended up really liking it.
I hope that Lands End Canvas never changes. Ordered this dress (for 25% off) to wear to something wedding-related and it fits like a glove. I think I'm going to get it in green next time they offer a sale.
I called to schedule my first wedding dress fitting yesterday and the seamstress is out of town. I forgot the whole first week of April is out for an appointment because of the proximity to the Augusta National. Masters week can be such a pain sometimes!
The spring Steeplechase is in Aiken next weekend. I didn't get to go last year (because of school) so I'm excited about going this year. I'm wearing the Lilly "Shauna" dress in navy. I haven't decided on shoes yet. I plan on styling it differently and wearing it to a shower in WV the following week. Maybe with a jean jacket and a Murphee scarf?
I'm planning on planting some flowers this week at T-rav's house (I really need to get into the habit of calling it our house, but I just can't seem to do it as of now.) I hope it doesn't frost again!

For Japan

2011-03-18T09:54:00.002-04:00

Emma Graham Designs

2011-03-16T18:48:00.000-04:00

So I was contacted recently about doing a post on a new company. I was a little hesitant at first, seeing as I never really do these things. At first glance, though, I was in love. Emma Graham designs was born from the dreaded, "OMG! That girl is wearing the same dress as me!" If you know me, you know I HATE that. (Remember the Hunter boots?)

Anyway, I was fully set to do a post when I got this email today.

I just KNEW I needed to let y'all know about that fabulousness that is Emma Graham designs (and not just because one of the founders is a fellow Gamecock).

They are fun, cute dresses, tops, and bottoms that are perfect for summer. Most of the pieces are under $200 and super fun! They also have a gameday line (I haven't seen it, but I'm sure it's amazing too!)

Here are some of my favorites from the line:

Chrissy

Meg

Ashley (My favorite)

Aimee

Check out this adorable company, I'm sure you won't be disappointed.

(I was in no way compensated for this post. I really do love this stuff!!)

Flashback

2011-03-12T11:19:00.000-05:00

I've had a crazy two weeks, so that explains the lack of posting. I had my wisdom teeth out on Thursday and I'm dealing with that right now. I put it off as long as I possibly could, but it could wait no longer.

ANYWAY, I was in a particularly bad mood on Wednesday when I got dressed, so I decided to pull out some of my favorite broken in clothes to make me feel better.

LEC Cardigan (Not particularly old, but one of my most worn items)

Minnie Mouse shirt via kids department at Old Navy circa 2006

Citizen jeans circa 2004

Converse Cucks circa 2003

Birthday Day!

2011-03-04T07:53:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday 100th birthday to my greatgrandmother, Granny!

(Granny with my cousin Carley who will be 5 on Sunday)

and HAPPY Birthday to my Cricket Princess puppy!! I can't believe she is already 3!

I hope this makes you smile!

2011-03-02T20:29:00.002-05:00

Crazy Busy

2011-02-26T13:02:00.000-05:00

My schedule is so incredibly jam-packed right now that I can't even breathe, so I may lack on the posting in the next few weeks. Next week I have 3 exams on the same day (1 of which if we fail, then we have to repeat the semester, YIKES!), I have a day of precepting at the hospital, Cricket's birthday is on Friday, and then I'm going to WV for my great-grandmother's 100th birthday.

T-rav's mother is having an engagement party for us tonight and we are really excited about it. I'm really excited about my dress I'm wearing though! I got the Jonah Dress and it is absolutely adorable!

I hope you all have a fab weekend and amazing week!

Wedding Wednesday

2011-02-23T06:49:00.000-05:00

If I had all of the money in the world, plus a fabulous wedding coordinator, this would be MY wedding.

The Wizard of Oz is one of my all time favorites! I was even Dorothy for Halloween (not the slutty buy in the porn-store Dorothy either, like my grandmother made a replica Dorothy costume for me). There is just something magical about that movie, so a wedding planned around it would be even more magical!

Photos and ideas borrowed from WedSavvy

Early Spring Picks

2011-02-20T11:29:00.000-05:00

All of this amazing weather really has me longing for spring. The best part of spring for me? Getting rid of all of these AWFUL winter clothes! Here are some of my top picks for early spring!

Bellatrix Floral Chiffon Blouse ($68)

Postella Daryn Dress $167

Tracy Negoshian Elle Dress

kate spade new york "Jeanette" $395

Nana's Doily Top $128

Those old groundhogs seem to know what they're talking about!

2011-02-19T18:53:00.000-05:00

Look what I found in my yard today!

I can't wait until it really is spring!!

Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T17:24:00.001-05:00

I've always loved Valentine's Day. Besides Christmas, my birthday, and the first day of spring, it's one of my favorite days of the year. T-rav and I did Valentine's day a little early (the price you pay being engaged to a police officer). We had an AMAZING dinner at the place where we are getting married and he got me these!

They are the Dixie Patches Peel 'n Eat earrings! I'm obsessed!

I hope y'all had a wonderful Valentine's Day!!

4 Months?!?

2011-02-11T14:15:00.000-05:00

I knew when we decided to have a short engagement that it would fly by, but holy moly! I don't know where January went. Things are really falling into place. We have showers planned, bachelorette party plans, band and photographer are booked. If I'm getting married in 4 months, that means I finish school in less than 3 months! Nutso.

I am really glad I decided not to move in with T-rav when we got the house, I think that just gives me something else exciting to look forward to! However, I'm getting the itch to start moving things over there. The extra bedroom that his roommate moved out of will become "the girl room" because he has a "man room". It's only fair for him to not want flamingo stuff all over the house when I don't want gamecock stuff all over the house. Here is a sneak peak of what will be going in that room!

In pink, of course! I am leaning towards a very soft shade of green for the walls. I want something light and girly for that room. I'm getting excited just thinking about it!

Adventures of the Nursing Student

2011-02-08T16:48:00.000-05:00

I'm in my last semester of nursing school. During this last semester, you get assigned a nurse and you are supposed to work with her until you have a set number of hours. There was some drama with mine and last night was my last night with her (Thank you for no more nights!) and I'll have a new one after next week. Unless you are in the ER or on an ICU floor, things are VERY slow at night. I'm NOT an night person either. I go to bed at 9:00 on a normal night.

Anyway, last night was going a little faster than before and then I got thrown into a code blue situation. Y'all, I thought I was going to pass out. I've watched other code blues from the door before, but I was at the corner of this patient's bed. On top of that, I was responsible for holding the patient's chart. It's one of those situations that the first time you see it/do it, at least for me, is scary as crap! I know the more you see, the less scary/hard it will be, but whoa.

Needless to say, I slept until 4:00 today and I am very glad I don't have to do another night for awhile!

Classic Beauty

2011-02-06T07:02:00.000-05:00

This dreary weather combined with having to work Sunday night and Monday night really has me in a funk. I thought maybe some pictures of the worlds most classic and beautiful women may put me in a better mood! Here are some of my favorite icons.

Grace Kelly

Audrey Hepburn

Vivien Leigh

Jackie O

Natalie Wood

Judy Garland

(extra points if you can name that film! Hint: It's my favorite in the whole world!)

Warm Food, Cold Night

2011-02-04T15:23:00.000-05:00

I know some people don't love ole' Rachael Ray, but she has some good, quick recipes. I found this in one of her cookbooks, and T-rav and my father absolutely love it! I think they are pretty good too.

Turkey Meatloaf Burgers

4 tablespoons butter
1 small mcintosh apple, peeled and finely chopped
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 small rib celery, finely chopped
Salt and pepper
1/3 cup plain breadcrumbs
1 pound ground dark-meat turkey
1 large egg
1/4 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons poultry seasoning (about 2/3 palmful)
Extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO), for drizzling
Sliced sharp white cheddar, for topping
1/3 cup whole-berry cranberry sauce
3 tablespoons sour cream
2 tablespoons chopped chives
4 large sandwich-size sourdough English muffins, split and toasted I just use regular hamburger buns
4 thin slices red onion I've never used this b/c I don't like raw onion.
4 leaves red-leaf or red romaine lettuce

Directions:

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter to melt, then add the apple, onion and celery; season with salt and pepper. Cover and cook until softened, 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the breadcrumbs, then transfer to a bowl to cool; reserve the skillet. Mix in the turkey, egg, parsley, mustard and poultry seasoning; season with salt and pepper. Form into four 4-inch patties.
Wipe out the reserved skillet and add a liberal drizzle of EVOO. Warm over medium-high heat, add the patties and cook, turning once, until cooked through, 8 to 10 minutes. Top with the cheddar during the last minute.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix the cranberry sauce, sour cream and chives.
Serve the patties on the English muffins with the onion, lettuce and cranberry-sour cream sauce

I usually serve these with some oven roasted root veggies and they are gone before I know it! They are going to be a great meal on a cold night like tonight!

Wedding Wednesday: Honeymoon

2011-02-02T08:12:00.000-05:00

I never, ever thought I would be this excited about my honeymoon. I am over the moon (pun intended) excited about it! The Monday after our wedding, we will be jetting off to this lovely locale.

I don't blame you if you're a little jealous!

Something NEWtral

2011-02-01T11:06:00.000-05:00

I've been looking for some nude colored shoes for awhile. I couldn't decide if I wanted flats or heels, or both. Last night I came across these DV by Dolce Vita shoes on Piperlime. I thought about them for about 30 minutes and decided that I NEEDED them.

Reason's why I need them:
1. They can go with my navy Minnie pants that I just can't seem to find the right shoes for
2. They have a bow
3. They are nude
4. They have a bow
5. They will be a good travel shoe for a few upcoming trips
6. Did I mention they have a bow?

In 3-5 business days these babies will be mine!

Oh My Goodness

2011-01-31T17:43:00.000-05:00

Spring/Summer fashion karma must be in my favor this year. There are no doubts about the fact, I.will.own.this.bag!

kate spade Summer 2011- Tropicana Bag

What I wore this week

2011-01-30T15:11:00.000-05:00

I tried to document what I wore this week. Ashley at Ashley's Antics does these posts on Wednesday and I think they are so fun!

Sunday

My preceptorship (the last step in nursing school before you finish) is at nights, so I was at the hospital Friday night and Saturday night. I came home Sunday and took a nap, but then had to go to the library to study. This is all I could manage to wear.

T-shirt: Target

Fleece Vest: Land's End

Black yoga pants: Aerie

Pashmina: China town NYC special

Shoes: Puma

Headband: F21

Monday

I stayed around the house to study for my test, but I did at least get dressed. Thats more than I can say for Tuesday.

Turtleneck: Target

Jeans: Land's End Canvas

Shoes: Dansko

Wednesday

Shirt: LEC

Sweater: Ralph Lauren

Jeans: LEC

Boots: J. Crew via Ebay

Jacket: LEC

Thursday

Cardigan: LEC

Tank: Gap

Jeans: Gap always skinny

Shoes: Tory Burch

Necklace: Craft show

Friday: Took engagement pictures, outfits will come later!

Saturday: Registering at Home Depot Chic

Cardigan: LEC

Tank: Aerie

Jeans: Gap always skinny

Shoes: Perlina

Flamingo Love!

2011-01-30T11:56:00.001-05:00

O-M-G. Y'all know that the spring Lilly came out this week. I about died when I saw this print!

(Spring 2011 Multi Peel and Eat)

If you have read my blog for anytime at all, you know my love of flamingos. The print doesn't release until mid-march, but you can guarantee that this is going to be pre-ordered and in my collection ASAP!

The Two Best Friends That Anyone Could Have

2011-01-27T06:15:00.000-05:00

Cricket and Hoagie are an exclusive clique. They don't take well to other dogs trying to get in on their friendship. Cricket has a lot of other friends, but when Hoagie is around, forget it! She is such a brat to other dogs when they are together. We like to call them the two dog wolfpack. Love my doggies!

Wedding Wednesday: Hair Inspiration

2011-01-26T07:00:00.013-05:00

I promise this isn't turning into a wedding blog (my wedding is not that interesting, I swear!)
I have an obsession with big hair. My hair does not like to be big though. Although it has a fair amount of wave in it, it is so slick. I have some elements to consider with my hair.
#1. It's going to be the end of June. In South Carolina. Outside wedding. The words humidity should be flashing in all caps in your head. My hair+humidity=

#2. I would LOVE to leave my hair down, but see #1 for why that won't be happening.
#3. I got an AMAZING hair accessory that is of significant size, so my hair needs to be of significance size.
#4. I am not wearing a veil.

Here are some of my hair inspiration:

Let's see what I end up with!

OB.SES.SION.

2011-01-25T09:34:00.000-05:00

Oscar de la Renta Spring 2011

Wedding Workout

2011-01-23T15:20:00.001-05:00

So of course I need to be in FAB shape for my wedding. I go to the gym regularly, but the cardio/weights I was doing in the "women's only" section of the gym was just not going to cut it. After many, many days of intimidation, I finally went back to body pump. My first experience was not great (I somehow remember not being able to sit on the toilet for something like 2 day, I had to fall) so I was really hesitant about going. I finally got enough courage to go to a class that wasn't that crowded and I'm so glad I did! I feel like I'm going to die in there, but I am so happy with myself when I finish. They also started a class on Thursday mornings, so I have NO excuse not to keep going. I'll be updating my progress as I go, but right now I'm pretty excited with the results I've seen in just two weeks!

**BTW- If I looked as good as those people in that picture while I was doing the pump, I'd post some pictures. I, however, look like I'm about to get a hernia when I'm in there!