Jonquil Festival

Spring is here! To celebrate me and Laura went down to Smyrna Village for the Annual Spring Jonquil Festival. This one was a million times better than the Dogwood Festival. And Yes, I did get my corndog and blue snowcone.

We walked around in the sunshine, shopped, ate, and had a lovely time.

~Laura & Me doing some browsing~

~This guy was great! He had a puppet show~

"Can we really keep the puppet show Uncle Max?"

~Lord of the Dance~

Because everyone wants to reinact scenes from Titanic.. although this isn't the scene I would choose.
"you jump i jump jack"

~I get a chef puppet.. the couple at the booth insisted that I have it:)~

~I get me blue snow cone... everything blue tastes better~

~Me and Monsieur Frog sit close together~

And that in a nutshell was my Sunday afternoon.

5 good things

Today was my first "week day" off in ages. I had big plans for the day, I thought I could treat myself to a movie, or go walk around the Ga Aquarium today. I just felt like I should spend the day doing something a little bit more exciting than the usual. But of course things happen and I didn't do either of those things. But trying to be positive, here are 5 good things that happened today.

1. I got to wake up on my own, not to my alarm going off. This almost never happens.

2. I met Brittany at Alon's for lunch. Seriously they have the most delicious sandwich ever. And I'm kind of a connoisseur of these things. I get the Smoked Peppered Turkey Panini. Sooo good!


3. I bought 2 really cute new dresses, and they were on sale. WOO WOO!

4. I took a 3 hour nap. Which I NEVER do... and it was phenomenal.

5. I finished reading my book of the week. The Search by Nora Roberts.


So things didn't go as I had planned, but it was still an ok day. Maybe my next weekday off I'll have that fun date with myself.

may your days be merry and bright..

...and may all your Christmas' be 'in January'.

I have been blessed with a great group of friends. Friends that have insane schedules. So for our little group we kept having to push back our annual Christmas party. This past weekend they all came to my house (which still holds a fully decorated Christmas tree) to open gifts, eat and drink. Here are some highlights.

~a little ambiance~

~snacks~



~GO PENS~

~ELLO POPPET~

~My Best Girls~

~Merry Christmas~

Christmas with my friends was great! I got some very lovely gifts, picture frames, books, clothes, socks, dvds, some really cute stationary, musical draydels, and candles. It was so fun to see everyone. Now this weekend hopefully I can dismantle my Christmas tree..or.. should I just leave it up? After all there is only about 11 months till next Christmas. Bonne Noel!

Mr. Darcy

"You must know... surely, you must know it was all for you. You are too generous to trifle with me. I believe you spoke with my aunt last night, and it has taught me to hope as I'd scarcely allowed myself before. If your feelings are still what they were last April, tell me so at once. My affections and wishes have not changed, but one word from you will silence me forever. If, however, your feelings have changed, I will have to tell you: you have bewitched me, body and soul, and I love, I love, I love you. I never wish to be parted from you from this day on. " -Mr. Darcy

In the Movie You've Got Mail, Kathleen Kelly writes to Joe Fox, "Confession: I have read Pride and Prejudice about 200 times. I get lost in the language-words like thither, mischance, felicity. I'm always in agony over whether Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy are really going to get together. Read it - I know you'll love it. "

Well I have not read Pride and Prejudice 200 times in fact I barley made it through the novel one time. However I have probably seen the movie close to 200 times. For me this movie is perfect in every way. The cinematography, the actors, the lines, the dances, the dresses and of course the infamous Mr. Darcy.

Like Kathleen Kelly I not only fell in love with Mr. Darcy but the language as well, it is so luscious, words like; nonsensical, bewitched, and incandescently. The movie makes me want to speak this way. When did people start substituting "is she amiable", for "is she hot?". Why don't men talk like this anymore?



Darcy, a name any woman would be thrilled to take. He is tall, dark, handsome, rich, accomplished, well spoken all the while exuding passion. Where are the Darcy's of the world? Matthew Macfadyen plays the perfect man in this film. In the beginning of the movie you'll swear he is the most ill mannered man to walk the face of the Earth but by the end you are totally in love with him.



Have you seen Mr. Darcy?

The Great Pumpkin

Yesterday my friend Lauren and I had some fun girl time as we went on our hunt for pumpkins. This week us and some of our friends are going to carve pumpkins so we were in need of a 'great' pumpkin. We went to the patch by my house which was a little small, but we managed to take some fun pictures before realizing that they only accepted cash. From there we headed to this really cute little shop on "love street" that sells all kinds of little knick-knacks for the house. From there we went to Publix where we got HUGE pumpkins for $5.99 (seriously folks you can't beat that). One half that size at the patch was $13 dollars. After our pumpkins were secure in Lauren's back seat we went to Scalinis for a lovely meal of salad, garlic rolls, pasta and spumoni. YUMMMMMMMM!!! After gorging ourselves on the endless rolls we came back to my house for a little chick flick movie night... on the agenda...The Proposal ,which had Lauren laughing so hard I'm sure my neighbors heard her...lol! A busy and fun filled day!



Have you gotten your pumpkin yet? Stay tuned folks.. cause we are carving them on Tuesday! Happy Fall Ya'll!!

A Do Something Day

Today I went to my parents house. I still get my haircut in Snellville so I drove out there. When I walked into the house I immediately smelled my Dad's apple pie (which he had baked just for me). Here's what I did today. Filled up my tires with more air, got my eyebrows shaped, my hair cut and colored, shopped for a birthday gift for my nephew, went to dinner and then shopped at the house while marking things with my name that I would one day get.

My parents are trying to get us children to take some of our childhood things that still reside in their basement. So I left with more than I thought I would..

*4 hooded sweatshirts
*A vase of flowers
*pictures
*CDs
*a caboodle
*a pair of almost new tennis shoes

and then I did shopping
*toothpaste, TP, Pretzels, and a piece of pie for tomorrow.

Oh I love going home, but I'm always sad to leave. But it was a lovely do something day!

Rainy Monday

"its raining cats and dogs outside...oops I stepped in a poodle" - Uncle Bob

Today was a great day..it was in a word... LOVELY!! I woke up this morning to the soothing sound of a thunderstorm. It was one of those rainy days where its dark, and the rain is pounding down really heavily. Apparently a lot of Georgians weren't enjoying it as much as I was. Schools were canceled, mudslides, flooding and horrible traffic. Luckily I missed it. I worked a half of a day. I went in at 7am, left at noon and went to Kroger. I was actually going to drive out to Snellville for dinner but since the roads were so bad my Dad told me to stay home. So I did, but first I was craving my Dad's Jambalaya and since I wasn't going home I was going to have to make it myself. I bought all the ingredients, came home and did my prep and soon the aroma of my delicious meal filled the condo. I was so nervous that it would turn out horrible but it was delicious (and I don't have to worry about Sean picking all the smoked sausage out), now I have plenty for my dinner tomorrow too.




The rest of my day was spent lounging around, catching up on soap operas and sleep. The perfect do-nothing day.

Working Girl!

"It's so beautifully arranged on the plate - you know someone's fingers have been all over it."
-Julia Child

Another busy day at work. Today we had a V.I.P. luncheon at work for all the people in the wedding circuit. The ballrooms were set with beautiful linens, I decorated 100 fabulous wedding cake cookies and me and my assistant made a lovely little sacher torte for dessert. Layers of milk chocolate mousse, raspberry gelee and almond chocolate genoise, topped off with perfect dark chocolate ganache. The dessert got rave reviews. That is what I love best about my job.. instant gratification. Its nice to see when someone likes something that you have dedicated your whole day to make. That's why I do this. That's why I cook. Cooking is very personal, if someone dislikes your food its like being punched in the stomach, but if they like it.. it's an incredible feeling.

LOL Lauren!

This past weekend my friends and I got together to celebrate Lauren's Birthday. We started out at Little Azio for some pizza, and then walked back to her cute condo in midtown. Presents, cake and a dance party later... we headed back out on the town to The Whole World Theater. Its a really cool improve comedy theater. Think whose line is it anyway. I highly recommend it, but make sure to look for deals on tickets.





Happy Birthday Lauren! I hope this year lovely!

A Labor of Love

Today was labor day and we celebrated Missy's birthday. It was a lovely day filled with presents, Beckham and a delicious low country shrimp boil made by my big brother Scott,"the richest man in town". What a beautiful labor day, I had the top off my Jeep all weekend, ate fantastic food and was surrounded by friends and family.






Happy Birthday Mis! xoxo

Shopping & Snellville

"Everybody's somebody in Snellville" -unknown

Every time I go to see my parents in Snellville I pass by two landmarks that insure me that I am 15 minutes from home. The first is the entry sign to Snellville with a sign that reads "Welcome to Snellville, Where everybody is Somebody". The second is the State Farm Insurance Sign that every week has a new quote on it. Today it was "A smile precedes happiness." To whom ever changes this sign weekly I thank you, its nice to read something different every time I come home.

So today when I got to the parents house, I had time for a quick hello before my mom, Brandon and I went to the mall. I think I overdid it a little. In an effort to get birthday gifts, wedding shower gifts and baby shower gifts...I instead bought a necklace, a Christmas ornament, earrings and a game. All I am sad to say .. for ME!

It was as is always a lovely day in Snellville. Snellville in my opinion will always be the "Stars Hollow" of Georgia. (If you've never watched Gilmore Girls that you wont know what I'm talking about).

So now I'm home to a clean house and ready for Sunday!

Fall is in the Air

"Don't you love New York in the fall? It makes me wanna buy school supplies."- You've Got Mail

Fall...Oh how I love thee. I walked outside this afternoon and something was different, the air I was breathing in wasn't hot and humid, it was cool and crisp. Perfect weather for taking the top off my car. It was a lovely 78 degrees outside.

I should probably bite my tongue for saying this but I am ready for summer to be over. I'm ready for all the great things that come along with fall. The trees will change colors and fall fashion will ensue. Today I went to the mall to check out what the stores have to offer for this season. So tell me ...I found these cute BCBG Cowboy boots at Macy's .. Yay or Nay. I think they are so cute but what would I wear them with. Maybe a ruffled flannel shirt? I could take the western chic route.



What are you wearing this fall? What trends should I be involved in? In other news have you checked out the accessories at urban outfitters lately. I swear if I could own everything in this store I would, but I especially love their earrings and necklaces. Since birds are the new black this season check out these adorable bird stud earrings. As soon as I can make my way to Lenox mall these bad boys are going to be mine.



Well until next time, Happy Fall Shopping.

Its Wednesday... you know what that means

Wow. I can't believe its already Wednesday again. I look forward to Wednesdays if only for the sheer joy that is Top Chef. After watching repeats of this past episode of Top Chef I can't help but be more and more in favor of "the brothers Volt". I mean seriously could they BE any cuter?!? Bryan has the most adorable brown eyes and his brother Michael with those arm tattoos. YUM! *Sexy Alert*. Well that's enough gushing until I get to Michael Isabella later in the show.

Quickfire Challenge! Secret Ingredient: the infamous Potato. What will these chefs make.. if it was me I gotta say I would probably want to work with the Yukon Gold Potatoes...my favorite.. the God of all Potatoes. YUM! Jesse was heavy handed with her cayenne pepper in her soup, Ashley with all her water drama makes a gnocci that looked great, "The Brothers Volt" both have pretty solid dishes, Jen makes steamed mussels with blue potato and lemongrass potato sauce (looked delish). My sexy friend Mr. Isabella stands in all his sexyness next to a "middle of the road dish". The winner of the quickfire who earns the right not to be eliminated...JEN...AGAIN! Go Girl... Girl Power.

Next on to Nellis Air Force base to cook for the men and women who put their lives on the line for America every day. Really a very touching challenge. Everyone has great attitudes as they try to cook for the masses. The contestants all pair off in the smaller teams. Michael of "the brothers volt" makes a delicious pork belly on a crispy romaine heart. Looks lovely and I'm sure tastes lovely as well. Bryan makes a delicious NY strip with demi while the Atlanta boys (Eli and Kevin) make a tribute to the South with a great looking potato salad served beneath pulled pork. A dish I would LOVE to sample. In my opinion the people who will most likely be on the bottom, the makers of the corn chowder (jesse and the Hatian), and Preeti with her farfalle pasta salad. The pasta salad looks like something my dog could make (and I don't have a dog). Obviously its a challenge to cook in this kitchen without proper room to work and equipment, but C'est la TOP CHEF! Jen with her immunity takes charge of the kitchen keeping everyone on track and I think she did a great job. She's one to look out for.

The chef's set up the buffet and serve the 300+ members of the Air Force.

Winner of the challenge............Michael Voltaggio. B-E-A-UTIFUL!!!!!!!!!! In another twist.. Cocky McHottie Mr. Isabella is in the top 4 and the bottom 4 (that will teach you to not go the extra mile and make a 2nd dish( but that's ok .. Still Sexy). AHHH!!!!!!!!!!! Seriously I am cowering in my living room at the thought of him going home. This competition needs him. AHHH!!!!! Please don't send him home. Also in the bottom, the makers of the Pasta salad.. I'd love to see Preeti go home.

The verdict is in...going home tonight..Preeti!! Yeah thank you judges.

Another great episode of Top Chef.. I am satisfied...until next Wednesday.

A toast to Champagne

"There comes a time in every woman's life when the only thing that helps is a glass of champagne."
-Bette Davis

Whats the one thing that can make you smile even when you have had a horrible day? For me its pink champagne. Their is something about it that makes me feel pretty, luxurious, and expensive. I know it sounds strange but just drinking one glass makes me feel like I'm in another time period. Their is something so Great Gatsby about champagne. You have heard me talk of it before, perhaps my love of champagne started when I saw the movie An Affair to Remember and Terry McKay ordered a pink champagne cocktail. In that instance I knew I would love it.

My favorite Sparkling Wine is Sofia Blanc de blancs made by Francis Ford Coppola Winery. Not only is it delicious but it comes wrapped in pretty pink gift wrap.

"Delicately fruity and delightfully refreshing, Sofia Blanc de Blancs is a rare blend of Pinot Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscat. The crisp flavors of apples and pears are made brighter by a hint of citrus and honeysuckle. Elegant in character, this wine is lightly textured and vibrant through the finish."

It even comes in these dazzling little pink cans, complete with matching straws. Perfect for pool side champagne-ing.



Tres Jolie? Oui!

In my family before a meal (at least when I'm present) we all have a toast. Just a simple toast to the evening. I think its good luck so have someone raise their glass with a nice anecdote, while the others clink their glasses in a unison "cheers".

Each of our toasts are lines from movies.

Mine is "to making it count" - from the dinner scene in Titanic. (followed by sporadic "here here"'s. Scott's is " to my big brother George the richest man in town" from Its a Wonderful Life. Mom usually goes with " here's to swimming with bo-legged women" from Jaws ..i laugh. Even my little brother Brandon has one from School of Rock and its just so darn stinking cute. He is always so proud looking when he says "now raise your goblet of rock". So adorable.

What are your dinner toasts or some great ones you have heard?

A Poodle in Paris

Bonne Anniversaire! My birthday this year seriously drug out for four days and it was fantastic. On Wednesday my coworkers got me a little present, balloons and a card, Thursday (my actual bday) I went home to celebrate with the family, Friday all the sales women at work got me a card and we all ate pie and ice cream (they know my dislike for cake),and then yesterday I celebrated with my WONDERFUL friends. I told you this was a birthday bonanza.

So last night before we all dined at Pappadeaux, Lauren came over to decorate my condo. She got these really cute "poodle in Paris decorations (in case you are unaware I have a bit of a love affair with Paris). Then on to dinner,we sipped on awesome frozen drinks while we waited to be seated. I had the bisque (yadda yadda yadda), and other delicious foods. Then it was back to my house for sundaes, gifts and PICTIONARY!


I got lovely gifts from every one, really cool picture frames, candles, seasons 2 & 3 of HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER, A steelers shirt, these really cool earrings that look like little fruit tarts, bath accessories (someone knew my love of taking baths), books and a really cute headband.



Then we made ice cream sundaes (that's right folks...no cakes in this house..lol) Seriously there were toppings I had never seen before, Peanut butter sauce, oreo pieces, Nestle Crunch sprinkles, Butterfly Sprinkles, Chocolate Shell (which apparently as soon as it touches ice cream forms a hard shell around the outside...AMAZING). Me being the purist that I am I had a hot fudge sundae with whipped cream, nuts, Nestle Crunch and Butterfly Sprinkles. DELICIOUS!
We then played a rousing game of PICTIONARY, complete with easel and huge ass paper, and a solid 5 minutes spent on my friends trying to figure out that the animal I was trying to draw was a hippo.




So thank you all so very much for making my 25th Birthday so lovely, I couldn't have asked for better friends.

Stay turned friends cause next week we celebrate Chris' Birthday, and there will be plenty of pictures taken.

XOXO