Running in Stilettos

19 1/2 weeks

2012-02-28T09:35:00.000-06:00

I have had several people request a "bump" picture so here I am in sunny FL at 19 and 1/2 weeks:

Not much to see yet but I'm sure there will be more of a "bump" in the weeks to come.

It's A.....

2012-02-22T15:08:00.002-06:00

BOY!!! We are so excited and very thankful that we had a healthy and VERY active sweet little boy at my doctor's appointment. It's amazing how much you can see when they are only 10 ounces. We got to see his sweet little hands and a great view of his feet. So precious.

Jason and I had already discussed names prior to the ultrasound but wanted to wait until we found out the gender to decide. Baby boy Cousar will be named Graham Michael. Graham is my MIL's maiden name and Michael was the name of Jason's sweet older brother who passed away shortly after he was born. Hubby is the only "Cousar" boy on that side of the family. His dad comes from a family of 6 brothers/sisters but they all had girls except for my FIL!! We have already heard from several family members that they are happy that the "Cousar" name will be carried on. Ha. :)

Now we get to guess who Graham will look like!!!

Will he look like a little Jason....

Or a little Holly....

Anybody else guess that he will have blond hair, blue eyes and be very fair complected? Poor thing. Maybe there is a dark complected gene somewhere that will be passed on but it isn't looking good. I'm sure we will be purchasing lots of SPF 100! We can't wait to meet our precious little boy and pray that we raise Graham in a way that is pleasing to God.

Creamy Lemon and Chive Farfalle

2012-02-17T16:33:00.000-06:00

I made this pasta for our Valentine's Dinner this week and it was YUM-O and super easy to throw together. We had a side salad and french bread to go along with this and it was delicious. I haven't been eating a lot of meat lately so this was perfect the way it was but you could easily throw on some grilled shrimp, chicken or steak. I cut the below recipe in half and it was plenty for just the two of us.

via

Ingredients:
1 pound of dried Farfalle pasta
2 small or 1 medium Shallot, diced small
1-2 Tablespoons of EVOO
2 teaspoons All Purpose Flour
1/2 cup of Dry White Wine (I used Riesling but any kind you like will work)
1 cup Heavy Cream
1/4 cup Fresh Chives, chopped
1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice, freshly squeezed
1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt or more to taste
1/2 teaspoon ground Black Pepper or more to taste
1 teaspoon Fresh Lemon Juice
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan Cheese

Preparation:
Prepare the pasta according to directions on box, reserving a cup of the pasta water. Meanwhile, saute the chopped shallots in the EVOO over medium heat for 3-4 minutes. Once the shallots have softened, sprinkle with two teaspoons of flour and cook for one minute. Stir in white wine until flour is dissolved and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and add heavy cream, chives, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Grate a teaspoon of lemon zest and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss with the sauce. Thin out if needed with a little of the reserved pasta water, then divide among plates and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serves 4 entree portions.

Friday Funny

2012-02-10T16:05:00.000-06:00

Now if I could find the same thing for Uggs?? I know, I know. People (including friends) love Uggs but I have always though they, along with Crocs, are hideous. :) Just a personal opinion so I hope I don't lose any readers over this.

Happy Weekend!

Meet Bosco

2012-02-06T17:19:00.001-06:00

Our adorable furry four legged super spoiled child.

Favorite activities include: sleeping, eating, going on walks, treats, sleeping, lounging in the sun, playing fetch or chase, sleeping, begging for treats, getting lots of attention, swimming in the summer, playing with Logan, and sleeping.

Here are a couple photos to document the above.

Sleeping

Playing with Logan

Lounging in the sun

Begging for treats

Last week I had to take Bosco to the vet for his yearly checkup. Poor thing was shaking to death as soon as we walked in. Made me sad! Everything looked great except....little Bosco has put on a couple lbs in the past year. Maybe too many treats? Too much table food? (yes we are bad parents), Being too lazy? We (mostly hubby) take Bosco on several short walks throughout the day but since the vet recommended increasing his exercise....I am making an effort to take him on longer walks. Day one of "Bosco get your skinny on" began last week with a 2 mile walk around the neighborhood. He LOVES to go on walks and was super exited the whole time because he even got to see his girlfriend, Sadie! When we got back, however, he barely made it in the door to his water bowl before he collapsed on the floor:

Poor thing! He didn't see that one coming but has since built up a little stamina because after multiple walks last week and today's walk, he made it all the way inside to his favorite resting spot: the leather chair. Big accomplishment for little Bosco!

Nursery Progress

2012-02-06T11:17:00.003-06:00

Making progress in the nursery! Last week I ordered the furniture from a local store in Memphis called Baby Time. They have a lot of different brands to choose from which makes it easy to see everything in person in one store. I highly recommend Baby Time! Below is what I have picked out so far. Still have a long way to go but I am happy to get a couple things crossed off the list.

Paint Color: Benjamin Moore Stonington Gray
Glider: Best Chair Trinity Glider- -I ordered this in a gray color called Pumice and will have white piping
Dresser: Ma Marie Single Dresser in Antique White (not creme like pictured) - - this will be used as the changing table
Crib: Jenny Lind crib in white

I can't wait to find out what we are having in just 2 weeks so I can decide on bedding as well as other nursery accessories. My feeling is still a Boy! :)

Hello Yellow

2012-01-30T17:55:00.001-06:00

Who else is loving the 65+ degree weather we are having in Memphis right now? Even though we have not had much of a Winter yet, which is perfectly fine by me, the warmer weather this week is making me want Spring to hurry up and get here. I love all the pretty Spring colors that are popping into retail stores. My favorite would have to be yellow.

1. Loft- - Seed Dot Print Blouse
2. Nordstrom- - Caslon Lace Stripe Tank
3. JC Penny - - Ceylon Yellow Blouse
4. Kate Spade - - Shimmer Triple Chain Necklace
5. The Limited - - Pocket Pleated Skirt
6. Anthropologie- - Pressed Lutea Skirt
7. Anthropologie- - Mala Wingtop Heels

Nursery Design

2012-01-26T13:38:00.001-06:00

So much to do when bringing a little baby into the world! We have been cleaning out our downstairs guest bedroom, selling furniture, and getting ready to start on the nursery! Yay! I have turned to...where else??...Pinterest for inspiration. As far as "theme," I am not really using one. I want the nursery to blend in with the rest of our house so am looking for furniture and bedding that doesn't scream...This is a baby's room!! Of course, it will look like a nursery but I want to invest in furniture that we can use for a long time and I want the colors to be more gender neutral for the most part even though we are finding out the gender in just 4 weeks!!! Can't wait. I think it's a boy but hubby is thinking a girl so we shall see. Below are a couple pictures I have saved for inspiration.

"Man-cipes"

2012-01-03T18:00:00.001-06:00

I am very excited to announce that I have my very first guest blogger! Yay! I am going to let the hubby take it over from here....

Wow! I am so honored that my fabulous wife allowed me to be her 1st guest blogger! Holly has done a great job constantly working on her blog and updating it. I'm a little nervous.

Despite the nerves, my publicist and I talked it over and decided to move forward with my guest appearance on "Running in Stilettos."

What should my 1st blog be about...of course, FOOD! The gateway to every man's heart!!! I decided to keep it simple and add my 2 of my favorite items- or as I like to call them "man-cipes!"

Enjoy!

Appetizer- Hot Sausage Rotel Dip

Ingredients
2 cans Hot Rotel Tomatoes
1 lb of Hot Sausage
2 packages of Cream Cheese
1 Bag of Tortilla Chips

Directions
Cook sausage until brown. Drain. Mix sausage, rotel tomatoes, and cream cheese in a microwave safe bowl and microwave until melted.

Main Course- Bratwurst

Ingredients
1 package Bratwurst Sausage
1 bottle Italian Dressing
1 Onion - Sliced
Hoagie Buns

Directions
Place brats in tin foil. Add Italian Dressing and Onion. Cook over medium heat on grill until thoroughly cooked. Serve on a hoagie bun. Garnish with Hellman's Mayonnaise, French's Yellow Mustard & your favorite cheese!

PS: I would encourage eating both of these at the same meal, however, you may want to consider back to back nights instead!!!

Jason

Menu Monday

2012-01-02T14:07:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year! What do you look forward to most about the beginning of a new year? With the Holidays behind us, I am looking forward to getting back to a regular schedule which also includes cooking. I have saved several new recipes over the past couple weeks that I can't wait to try.

Smoky Corn and Black Bean Pizza
1 plum tomato, diced
1 cup caned black beans, rinsed
1 cup fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears)
2 tablespoons cornmeal
1 pound prepared whole-wheat pizza dough
1/3 cup barbecue sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella

PREPARATION
1. Preheat grill to medium.
2. Combine tomato, beans and corn in a medium bowl. Sprinkle cornmeal onto a large baking sheet. Stretch the dough into about a 12-inch circle and lay it on top of the cornmeal, coating the entire underside of the dough.
3. Transfer the crust from the baking sheet to the grill. Close the lid and cook until the crust is puffed and lighting browned on the bottom, 4 to 5 minutes.
4. Using a large spatula, flip the crust. Spread barbecue sauce on it and quickly sprinkle with the tomato mixture and cheese. Close the lid: grill until the cheese is melted and the bottom of the crust is browned, 4 to 5 minutes.

Buffalo Chicken Tacos
1 pound chicken breasts, skinless, boneless, cut into 1 inch pieces
2/3 cup flour
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/3 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank's Buffalo Wing), plus extra for garnishment
1 Tablespoon olive oil
10 6-inch yellow corn tortillas
Toppings:
Shredded lettuce
Diced onions and cilantro
Avocado slices
Ranch dressing
Green onions

PREPARATION:
1. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, cayenne, and garlic powder. Season the chicken with pepper then dredge in the flour mixture.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the Dutch oven and once hot, add chicken and cook on both sides. Once the chicken is done, set it aside and toss with 1/3 cup buffalo wing sauce.

Assemble to tacos. Yield: 5 servings, 2 tacos each.

Smoked Salmon BLT
4 slices thick cut bacon
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill leaves
8 (1/2 inch thick) slices multi grain bread
6 ounces smoked salmon
1 cup arugula, divided
2 to 3 large tomatoes, sliced

PREPARATION
1. In a medium skillet over medium high heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, combine the mayo, lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh dill. Spread the lemon may over 1 side of each slice of bread. Arrange the smoked salmon on 4 slices of the bread. Break the bacon in half and put on top of the smoked salmon. Top the bacon with 1/2 cup of arugula and arrange 2 to 3 tomato slices on top. Cover with remaining slices of bread.

Pioneer Woman's Ginger Steak Salad
Marinade Ingredients:
2 Tablespoons soy sauce
1 Tablespoon Sherry
2 gloves Garlic, minced
2 teaspoons Brown Sugar
1 whole Rib-eye, Strip or Sirloin Steak
2 Tablespoons Olive Oil

Salad Dressing:
2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
2 Tablespoons Soy Sauce
2 Tablespoons White Sugar
1 Tablespoon Lime Juice
2 cloves Garlic, finely diced
1 Tablespoon Fresh Ginger, Minced
1/2 whole Jalapeno, seeded and diced

Salad Ingredients:
2 whole green onions
8 ounces salad greens

PREPARATION:
1. Combine steak marinade ingredients in a ziploc bag. Mix and place steak into bag and marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
2. Combine salad dressing ingredients and slice green onions
3. When steak is finished marinating, add 2 tablespoons olive oil to a hot skillet. Cook steak about 1 1/2 minutes per side or until medium rare. Remove from skillet and keep on a plate allowing to cool slightly.
4. Toss salad greens in 3/4 of the salad dressing. Place steak on cutting board and slice thinly, then pour juices from the plate over the top. Mound tossed salad on a platter, then place sliced steak on top of salad. Pour remaining salad dressing over the top. Sprinkle with green onions and add cherry tomatoes.

Apple Dumplings
2 sticks butter
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 tubes crescent rolls
2 granny smith apples
12 ounces of Mountain Dew
Cinnamon
Vanilla ice cream

PREPARATION:
1. Peel and slice the apples. Wrap each slice in a crescent dough triangle and place in greased pan.
2. In a bowl, melt the butter and stir in sugar and vanilla. Pour over top of the wrapped apples or spread on top with a spoon.
3. Pour the Mounting Dew all around and sprinkle with cinnamon.
4. Place in 350 degree oven for 30 to 40 minutes. Serve hot with ice cream.

Baby Cousar

2011-12-27T18:07:00.000-06:00

Hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas and have now recovered from the Holidays! I will be back in a few days with a post but wanted to announce that the hubby and I are having a baby! Baby Cousar will be here in July! I heard the precious little heartbeat for the first time today and it was beating at 160bpm. Any guesses if it will be a boy or girl?! We are excited about expanding our little family and pray for a healthy pregnancy and baby.

Christmas Cookies

2011-12-19T18:29:00.000-06:00

My sister and I made Christmas Cookies today to give out to neighbors, co-workers, and friends. It was so fun! We decided to do 4 different kinds of cookies: Toffee Bars, Tiger Butter, Candy Cane Blossoms, and Sugar Cookies. One thing we did learn today is that we are by no means professional cookie decorators but at least we had fun doing it!

Here are the recipes we used.

Toffee Bars

1 cup butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 1/2 sleeves saltine crackers (broken)
1 (12 oz) package of milk chocolate chips
1 cup chopped pecans for topping

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line cookie sheet with aluminum foil and grease foil.
In a small saucepan over medium heat melt the butter and brown sugar; bring to a boil for 3 minutes and remove from heat
Arrange broken crackers over the foil and pour butter/brown sugar mixture on top.
Bake in preheated oven for 5 minutes
Remove from oven and sprinkle chocolate chips over. As they begin to melt, spread with a spatula to cover cracker mixture. Add pecans to top and refrigerate for 1 hour then remove and break into bars.

Tiger Butter

1 (12 oz) package of white chocolate chips
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1 (12 oz) bag of semi-sweet chocolate chips

Melt white chocolate in microwave starting at 2 minutes. Stir and continue until all is melted. Add 1/2 cup peanut butter to the white chocolate and pour into buttered 9x13 glass dish.
Melt semi-sweet chocolate chips in microwave for 2 minutes. Stir and continue until all is melted. Pour onto top of white chocolate-peanut butter and then with a knife, swirl to combine the two. Cool and cut or break into pieces.

Candy Cane Sugar Blossoms and Sugar Cookies

These cookies were inspired by this pin on pinterest. However, instead of making the cookies- we used Betty Crocker Sugar Cookie Mix. The mix is so good and all you add is flour, egg and butter. Since we were making so many cookies, we thought this would be much easier.

For the Candy Cane Blossoms we rolled into 1-2" balls and then rolled in green or red sugar and baked according to package directions. Once they cooled for approx 2 minutes, we put Hershey's Candy Cane Kisses in the middle. For the Sugar Cookies we decorated, we rolled into 2" balls and bakes according to package directions then decorated with icing and sprinkles.

Here they are looking pretty and tasty in our Dollar Tree Christmas Tins

Merry Christmas!

One Black Dress, Three Ways

2011-12-06T21:06:00.002-06:00

I can't believe it's Christmas Season which means holiday parties and trying to decide what to wear of course! I recently purchased a black dress similar to the one below from Mozelle Boutique for under $50. Black dresses can be so versatile and great for the holidays because you can style them with different accessories for a different look each time.

Bcbgeneration, $88
Armani Exchange sheer hosiery, $15
Christian Louboutin heel boots, $995
Alexander McQueen clutch hand bag, $1,380
Amrita Singh 18 karat gold jewelry, $250
Jamie Wolf yellow gold jewelry, $2,250
Lee Angel Jewelry stackable jewelry, $80
J Crew buckle belt, $60

Quiksilver shawl collar vest, $119
Bcbgeneration, $88
Armani Exchange seamed tight, $15
Christian Louboutin high heel booties, $995
Marc by Marc Jacobs clutch bag, $328
ASOS bangles jewelry, $15
Juicy Couture gold tone earrings, $48

Armani Exchange nylon pantyhose, $15
Christian Louboutin leopard print high heels, £735
Alexander mcqueen handbag, $1,380
Lee Angel Jewelry yellow gold jewelry, $80
Madewell statement bib necklace, $108
Jamie Wolf pave earrings, $2,250

Product Faves

2011-11-28T20:41:00.004-06:00

Are you a product junkie or do you like to stick to stuff you know? I tend to stick to products I know/have used for years. I love trying new products from time to time but with sensitive skin, I have to be careful with that. Below are some of my favorites and also a couple new things I have tried recently.

Lancome Teint Idole Ultra Enduringly Divine & Comfortable Makeup

Love this foundation. It goes on super smooth and is very light but also provides great coverage.

Moroccan Oil

I have been using this for maybe a year now and love how it makes my hair feel and smell.

Clinique Lash Building Primer

I think a lash primer is a must. It makes your lashes look fuller and also your mascara will last 4x longer!

Booth's Ginger Sugar Body Scrub

I recently picked this up from Ulta and love it. I have always liked a similar scrub from Origins but at under $7, I think I will be using this one from now on. Love this scent and the way it makes my skin feel.

OPI French Quarter for your Thoughts

Loving this color for Fall/Winter! I use ORLY Won't Chip top coat and it keeps my nails from chipping for about a week.

Dolce & Gabana Light Blue

Great scent if you do not like heavy perfumes! Love the light smell.

alba Papaya Mango Body Cream

This is also a new product I recently picked up at Whole Foods. My skin gets very dry in the Fall but this is keeping it moisturized and also smells great.

Clinique High Impact Lip Colour in Red-y To Wear

Recently picked this red up for the Holidays and love the pop of color!

WS Glass Hurricane

2011-11-09T16:43:00.001-06:00

I'm back with another Pinterest project! Can you tell I am addicted? Anyone else? This one is super easy. I saw this post on pinterest about William Sonoma Glass Hurricane's ($58 each!!) and how this blogger DIY'd them by items she found at Dollar Tree. So, I went to my local Dollar Tree and found all the items that I needed and purchased 3 of each item below.

Image

Remove the tags and try not to stab yourself with a razor blade like I did. Then put some hot glue around the rim of the candlestick and stick it to the bottom of the hurricane.

Image

Then take your white candle and stick it in the hurricane so it will look like this:

Image

Next I went outside and found some pretty yellow and brownish leaves from our yard and placed them in between the candle and the hurricane. I actually removed two of the bases so there would be variation in height but they can easily be added back if I decide to move then or change them out for Christmas.

I love how they turned out and they also look great with my Target Table Runner. AND, I only spend $9 + tax for ALL the supplies! Not bad compared to $58 EACH for the William Sonoma version!

Black + Red

2011-10-27T09:47:00.001-05:00

Love this for Fall...

Top: Stripe Long Sleeve Raglan - - Shopbop.com
Skirt: Classic Mini Felted Wool - - J Crew
Belt: Skinny Calf Hair - - J Crew
Earrings: Garden Party Chandelier - - Stella & Dot
Tights: Pointelle Black - - Banana Republic
Shoes: Akomeogi Peep Toe - - Anthropologie

Pinterest Project

2011-10-18T15:33:00.002-05:00

I just completed my first project inspired from a Pinterest idea! I got the below dresser for free this summer and was just waiting for it to cool off a bit before diving in. After seeing this post on Pinterest, I knew that was exactly what I wanted to do.

My dresser started off looking like this:

After removing all the hardware, I sanded the dresser and painted 2 coats of primer. I stained the top Dark Walnut and painted 4 coats of Sherwin Williams Dover White on the rest of the dresser. I used the original drawer pulls and hardware but spray painted them Oil Rubbed Bronze. I couldn't be happier with how it turned out! My dresser now looks like this:

I am actually using it in our dining room to store serving platters, etc.

I love how it is fitting in with the rest of the furniture.

Yay for Pinterest!

Paula Deen's Spicy Chili

2011-10-11T20:28:00.000-05:00

I can't say that I am a fan of Paula Deen because she is definitely not known for her low fat recipes but I found this one that had good reviews (and did not include butter!) so thought I would give it a try. It has a kick which we love so if you do not like spicy food, this one is not for you.

Spicy Chili:

1 pound lean ground chuck
1 onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon fresh ground black pepper
2 (15-ounce) cans ranch-style beans
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (15-ounce) can niblet corn, drained
1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chiles

In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown ground chuck, until beef is crumbly. Stir in onion, bell pepper, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt and pepper.

Stir in beans, tomato sauce, corn, diced tomatoes, and green chiles. Reduce heat and simmer 30 minutes (or longer) uncovered, stirring occasionally.

Yield: 10 to 12 servings

Happy Soup Weather!

Wedding Attire

2011-09-16T21:37:00.002-05:00

I recently got a request to create an outfit for a 4 o'clock outdoor wedding and below is what I came up with. Any thoughts on this? I have one more in mind so am going to try and find the pieces for it as well.

Some of the pieces above are very $$$ so I definitely recommend doing some bargain shopping! I would tuck the shirt into the skirt because I love the detail on the skirt waist.

Top: BCBG Crystal Basket Weave - - Nordstrom
Skirt: Yumi - - Anthropologie
Necklace: Coiled Teardrops - - Anthropologie
Shoes: Mistle Pump - - Nordstrom
Clutch: Crown Point Jada - - Kate Spade

For a little more casual look- I think this could also work. Blazers are everywhere and I think the one below would look great over a dress with a belt.

Blazer: Schoolboy - - Nordstrom
Dress: Verdant Slip Dress - - Anthropologie
Clutch: Riley Envelope - - Melie Bianco
Pumps: BCBG Pamela - - Piperlime
Belt: Weave & Plait - - Anthropologie

Fall Wish List

2011-08-22T16:22:00.001-05:00

If you are ready for Fall, raise your hand. We had a glimpse of Fall-like temperatures early last week but it was definitely just a glimpse. I of course have been searching Pinterest and my fave retail stores for the Fall clothing purchases I am hoping to make and have listed a few of those below. What do y'all look forward to most about cooler weather?

Loving this jacket from Nordstrom.com...and the top too. Maybe I should purchase both??

Also from Nordstrom.com- these boots are super cute and I love the back zipper detail.

Anza Cardi from Anthropologie

Tie Neck Secretary Blouse from Piperlime

Faux Fur Vest from Nordstrom

Love everything about this outfit via Pinterest

That's it for now. :)

White Owl

2011-07-13T13:44:00.002-05:00

I recently purchased a necklace from this Etsy shop and I love it. Very versatile- even looks great with a basic tee. Below are a couple others than I am also eyeing:

lyse lace necklace

stella lace necklace in muted olive

andra lace cuff in blush

lotus lace necklace

calliope lace earrings in ivory

Gold Coast Elizabeth

2011-07-07T17:36:00.001-05:00

LOVING this bag from Kate Spade...if only it wasn't $375.

Brown Sugar-Cinnamon Peach Pie

2011-07-07T17:27:00.001-05:00

I made this Southern Living pie last night and it was delicious!

Ingredients

1 1/3 cups cold butter
4 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, divided
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 to 3/4 cup ice-cold water
8 large fresh, firm, ripe peaches (about 4 lb.)
1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 tablespoons butter, cut into pieces
1 large egg, beaten
1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Preparation

1. Cut 1 1/3 cups butter into small cubes, and chill 15 minutes. Stir together 4 cups flour and 1 1/2 tsp. salt. Cut butter into flour mixture with a pastry blender until mixture resembles small peas. Gradually stir in 1/2 cup ice water with a fork, stirring until dry ingredients are moistened and dough begins to form a ball and leaves sides of bowl, adding more ice water, 1 Tbsp. at a time, if necessary. Turn dough out onto a piece of plastic wrap; press and shape dough into 2 flat disks. Wrap each disk in plastic wrap, and chill 30 minutes to 24 hours.

2. Preheat oven to 425º. Place 1 dough disk on a lightly floured surface; sprinkle dough lightly with flour. Roll dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Starting at 1 edge of dough, wrap dough around a rolling pin. Place rolling pin over a 9-inch pie plate, and unroll dough over pie plate. Press dough into pie plate.

3. Roll remaining dough disk to about 1/4-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.

4. Peel peaches, and cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices; cut slices in half. Stir together brown sugar, next 3 ingredients, and remaining 1/4 cup flour in a bowl; add peaches, stirring to coat. Immediately spoon peach mixture into piecrust in pie plate, and dot with 1 1/2 Tbsp. butter. (Do not make mixture ahead or it will become too juicy.)

5. Carefully place remaining piecrust over filling; press edges of crusts together to seal. Cut off excess crust, and reserve. Crimp edges of pie. If desired, reroll excess crust to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into 3-inch leaves using a knife. Brush top of pie with beaten egg; top with leaves. Brush leaves with egg; sprinkle with 1 1/2 Tbsp. granulated sugar. Cut 4 to 5 slits in top of pie for steam to escape.

6. Freeze pie 15 minutes. Meanwhile, heat a jelly-roll pan in oven 10 minutes. Place pie on hot jelly-roll pan.

7. Bake at 425° on lower oven rack 15 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 375°; bake 40 minutes. Cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning, and bake 25 more minutes or until juices are thick and bubbly (juices will bubble through top). Transfer to a wire rack; cool 2 hours before serving.

Lovely Lattice: For an equally impressive top crust, cut remaining dough disk in Step 3 into 3 (1 1/2-inch-wide) strips and 8 (1/4-inch-wide) strips using a fluted pastry wheel. Proceed as directed through Step 4. In Step 5, replace whole crust with dough strips, making a lattice design. Omit pastry leaves. Brush lattice with beaten egg, and sprinkle with sugar. Omit slits in crust. Proceed as directed in Steps 6 and 7, shielding just the edges with foil.

Lots of steps but so worth it....enjoy!

Summer Dresses

2011-06-22T13:20:00.001-05:00

1. Long Island Longing Dress http://www.modcloth.com/
2. Jack and Ginger Abstract Print Dress http://www.nordstrom.com/
3. Verdant Slip Dress http://www.anthropologie.com/
4. Sparkle & Fade Swingy Knit Dress http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/
5. Impressionistic Thoughts Dress http://www.shopruche.com/

Chocolate-Peanut Butter Parfait

2011-06-15T19:07:00.003-05:00

I have been making these for years and they are the perfect "lite" dessert that remind me of a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup.

Ingredients:
1 box of Jello (or generic brand) sugar free chocolate instant pudding mix
2 cups of skim milk
3 tablespoons of peanut butter
2 tablespoon of thawed Cool Whip lite

Instructions:
-Beat pudding with a whisk for 3 minutes and place in frig for 5 minutes or longer
-Mix peanut butter and cool whip
-Spoon pudding mix in parfait glasses (2 or 3) then the peanut butter mixture and top with pudding mix.

Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes

Enjoy!

Cute Summer Sandals

2011-06-01T21:35:00.000-05:00

1. Isola 'Adena" Thong Sandal www.nordstrom.com
2. Strung Package Sandal www.anthropologie.com
3. Steve Madden 'Turmpyke' Sandal www.nordstrom.com

Lemon Cheesecake Yogurt Cups

2011-06-01T21:13:00.001-05:00

These sound DELICIOUS and look like a perfect summer dessert! Can't wait to make these very soon.

Recipe and Picture via skinnytaste.com

Ingredients:

12 reduced fat vanilla wafers
8 oz 1/3 less fat cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla
6 oz fat-free vanilla Greek yogurt
2 large egg whites
3 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp lemon zest
1 tbsp all purpose flour
24 blackberries

Directions:
Heat oven to 350°.
Line cupcake tin with liners. Place a vanilla wafer at the bottom of each liner.
Gently beat cream cheese, sugar and vanilla until smooth using an electric mixer. Gradually beat in fat free yogurt, egg whites, lemon juice, lemon zest and flour. Do not over beat. Pour into cupcake liners filling half way.
Bake 25 minutes or until center is almost set. Cool to room temperature. Chill a few hours in the refrigerator.
Top with fresh berries and powdered sugar.

Enjoy!

Raspberry-Chipotle Barbecue Chicken Pizza

2011-05-24T16:21:00.002-05:00

Trying this tonight! It sounds so good and looks easy to make.

Recipe via Pillsbury.com

INGREDIENTS

1 can (13.8 oz) Pillsbury® refrigerated classic pizza crust

1/4 cup SMUCKER'S® Red Raspberry Preserves

1/4 cup hickory smoke-flavored barbecue sauce (or other favorite flavor)

2 teaspoons chopped chipotle chilies in adobo sauce (from 7-oz can)

1 package (6 oz) refrigerated grilled chicken breast strips, cubed

1/2 medium red onion, cut into thin strips

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (6 oz)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

DIRECTIONS

1. Heat oven to 425°F. Lightly spray 13x9-inch pan with CRISCO® Original No-Stick Cooking Spray. Unroll pizza crust dough in pan; press dough to edges of pan.
2. In small bowl, mix preserves, barbecue sauce and chilies. Spread mixture evenly over dough to within 1/4 inch of edges. Top with chicken, onion and cheeses.
3. Bake 12 to 20 minutes or until cheeses are melted and edges are deep golden brown. Sprinkle with cilantro..

Enjoy!

5K PR

2011-05-24T16:13:00.000-05:00

A couple weeks ago I ran the Junior League of Memphis 5K for Kids which was my first 5K since last Fall when I began training for the St. Jude Half Marathon. I set a PR (Personal Record) of 24:41! My previous PR was 25:46 so I was thrilled to have beaten my time by over a minute. I definitely do not consider myself a fast runner but I can tell that running 6 days a week is improving my time and making me push myself to run faster.

Mixing Prints

2011-04-27T13:25:00.002-05:00

Top: Crazy for you Floral Top http://www.shopruche.com/
Earrings: Cutout http://www.forever21.com/
Bangles: Blue Hue http://www.forever21.com/
Bracelet: Shimmering Hints of Color http://www.forever21.com/
Skirt: Calm Seas http://www.anthropologie.com/
Sandals: Bamboo Elin http://www.urbanog.com/

Splurge vs. Steal

2011-04-24T21:46:00.002-05:00

One of the below pair of shoes is $25 and the other pair is $365. Can you tell which one is more expensive?

Plaids and Stripes

2011-04-19T14:23:00.001-05:00

So glad the weather has been great the past few weeks! I love all the plaids and stripes I have seen in local retail stores. Below are two outfits that I would love to be wearing.

1. Perfect Shirt in Suckered Gingham http://www.jcrew.com/
2. Faux Stone Filigree Ring http://www.forever21.com/
3. 7 for all Mankind Wedge Sandals http://www.piperlime.com/
4. Pressed & Faux Ivory Bangles http://www.forever21.com/
5. Dorrie Skirt http://www.jcrew.com/
6. Fossil Key Per Shopper Bag http://www.zappos.com/

1. Endless Horizon Top http://www.anthropologie.com/
2. Legging Jean http://www.gap.com/
3. Cynthia Vincent Juno Wedge Sandals http://www.piperlime.com/
4. Bohemian Bangle http://www.forever21.com/
5. Beaded Flower Ring http://www.forever21.com/
6. Marc by Marc Jacobs Class Q Bag http://www.piperlime.com/
7. Pressed & Faux Ivory Bangles http://www.forever21.com/

Happy Spring!

Pineapple Bliss Cupcakes

2011-04-13T20:30:00.004-05:00

These look so yummy! I can't wait to try this recipe soon.

Recipe via skinnytaste.com

Ingredients:
1 box of yellow cake mix
20 oz. can of crushed pineapple in juice (do not drain)

Instructions:
-Combine ingredients in a large bowl and beat with an electric mixer on medium speed
-Pour into lined cupcake tins 2/3 full and cook according to directions on box or until a toothpick inserted comes out cleans
-Set aside to cool

Pineapple Fluff Cream Cheese Frosting
-8 oz Philadelphia 1/3 less fat cream cheese
-20 oz can pineapple in pineapple juice, completely drained of any liquid
-3/4 cup fluff marshmallow spread

Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl and mix with a hand mixer until well blended. Spread over cooled cupcakes and refrigerate until ready to eat.

In Those Jeans

2011-03-22T09:34:00.000-05:00

I have been seeing all different styles of jeans out this Spring! From Skinny to Flare there are so many new styles out there that I love! Gap has "redone" their jeans recently and they are really cute and fit great. My fave are Citizens but when I want to try a few new styles out, the price tag on Gap Jeans is a little more appealing than Citizens. Below are a couple different styles from Gap that will be great for Spring.

1. Curvy White Wash
2. Cropped Legging Jean White Wash
3. Wide Leg Trouser
4. Sexy Boot Surplus
5. Real Straight Dark Wash

Seafood Cakes with Lemon Linguine

2011-03-22T09:16:00.001-05:00

I made these last night and they were so good! I served them with Lemon Linguine and it went great with the cakes.

Recipe via Myrecipes.com:
Prep Time: 30 minutes

Yield: 4 servings (serving size: 2 cakes and about 4 teaspoons sauce)
Ingredients
1/3 cup light sour cream
6 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, divided
1 tablespoon stone-ground mustard
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
7 teaspoons canola oil, divided
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1/4 cup finely chopped celery
8 ounces peeled and deveined medium shrimp, chopped
8 ounces lump crabmeat, drained and shell pieces removed
1/4 cup (1 ounce) grated fresh Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 large egg whites, lightly beaten
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 cup panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)

Preparation
1. Combine sour cream, 2 tablespoons parsley, mustard, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper, stirring with a whisk until blended. Set aside.
2. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add 1 teaspoon canola oil to pan, and swirl to coat. Add onion and celery; cook 5 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat; cool slightly.
3. Combine shrimp and crab in a large bowl. Stir in onion mixture, remaining pepper, remaining 1/4 cup parsley, cheese, salt, egg whites, and egg; stir gently. Add panko; stir gently. Divide mixture into 8 equal portions; flatten to 1/2-inch-thick patties.
4. Heat skillet over medium-high heat. Add remaining 2 tablespoons oil to pan; swirl to coat. Add patties to pan; cook 3 minutes or until lightly browned. Carefully turn over; cook 3 minutes or until done. Serve with sauce.

Lemon Linguine Recipe via Taste of Home:

Ingredients (serves 4)
8 ounces linguine
3 tablespoons butter, melted
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1-1/2 teaspoons dried basil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt-free lemon-pepper seasoning
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

PreparationIn a saucepan, cook linguine in boiling water for 8-10 minutes or until tender. Meanwhile, in another saucepan, combine butter, lemon juice, basil, garlic powder and lemon-pepper; cook and stir until butter is melted. Drain linguine; add to butter mixture and toss to coat. Add Parmesan cheese and toss. Yield: 4 servings.

Benihana Style Chicken Fried Rice

2011-03-03T15:42:00.003-06:00

One of my favorite things at a Hibachi restaurant is the Fried Rice and Benihana's is so good. I found a recipe online and am going to try it tonight!

Recipe via Food.com:

Ingredients: (Serves 2)
2 ounces cooked chicken
8 ounces steamed rice
2 eggs
2 tablespoons onion, chopped
2 tablespoons carrot, chopped
2 tablespoons green onion, chopped
2 tablespoons green peas
1 teaspoon sesame seed
3 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon oil (use for cooking veggies)
2 teaspoons soy sauce (or more to taste)
6 pinches pepper
2 cloves minced garlic
1 tsp fresh grated ginger
Sesame seeds
Salt to taste

Directions:
- Scramble eggs and chop after cooking.
- Saute chopped onion, green onion, seasoning and carrots in the oil until done and mix with chopped scrambled egg and chicken.
- Break off chunks of steamed rice and mix with vegetable, egg and chicken.
- Add sesame seed, minced garlic, ginger, salt and pepper, stirring well.
- Add butter and soy sauce into the mixture, stirring well until done.

Enjoy!

Home Office Redesign

2011-02-21T09:40:00.003-06:00

I actually finished the home office the week of Christmas but am just getting around to blogging about it....oops! Our office also started as a blank slate and the first item we purchased was our old school teacher's desk on craigslist for $40! We (okay Jason) sanded, primed, sanded, painted, stained, sanded some more and then applied two coats of poly. It was a lot of work! I decided to do the top black and I love the way it turned out.

It went from looking like this:

to this: (please excuse the cords...I am working on those!)

Other wall in the office

And one other view that includes the chevron rug that I love!!

I did a lot of shopping around and googling coupons to try and find the best deals I could. I love the way it turned out and now that I work from home, it's great to be able to work in a "fun" office!

Craigslist: Desk
Ikea: Red Desk Chair
HomeGoods: Desk accessories, printer table and basket
Container Store: Leaning bookshelf
Target: Armless chair
Overstock: Green garden stool

Guest Bedroom Redesign

2011-02-16T16:49:00.001-06:00

I have been working on the guest bedroom for a couple months now. I am horrible at taking before pictures so I don't have any of those to show but I basically started with a blank slate. When we moved in last February, I did have a bed that I put in the room with old bedding so it would be functional but I knew I had plans to change it once the downstairs was complete! My inspiration actually came from a Better Homes & Gardens magazine. I would like to eventually have some drapes made but for now I am finished. I upholstered the headboard early this week and it was the easiest project I have even done. From start to finish it only took an hour and I am so happy with the way it turned out! Everything in the bedroom (besides the bedding) I either already had in the attic or was free! Headboard- from my Aunt Alice; bedside table from Jason's parents that I refinished, mirror also from Jason's parents, and the old window above the bed was from a neighbor who just got new windows which was also refinished.

Upholstered headboard and new bedding.

Bedside table that was refinished

Feels so good to finally have it finished...for now!

Asian Lettuce Cups

2011-01-25T11:09:00.002-06:00

Trying these tonight! I love PF Chang's lettuce wraps so thought I would try the healthier version.

Recipe via Cooking Light

Ingredients

1 1/2 tablespoons canola oil, divided
3 cups coarsely chopped shiitake mushroom caps (about 1/2 pound)
1 1/4 pounds ground turkey
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon minced peeled fresh ginger
1 cup thinly sliced green onions (about 4)
1 (8-ounce) can sliced water chestnuts, drained and coarsely chopped
12 Boston lettuce leaves
3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
2 tablespoons lower-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 teaspoons Sriracha (hot chile sauce, such as Huy Fong)
1/4 teaspoon salt

Preparation

1. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms; sauté 5 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally. Place mushrooms in a large bowl. Heat remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons oil in pan over medium-high heat. Add turkey, garlic, and ginger to pan; cook 6 minutes or until turkey is browned, stirring to crumble. Add turkey mixture, onions, and water chestnuts to mushrooms in bowl; stir well.
2. Spoon 1/2 cup turkey mixture into each lettuce leaf. Combine hoisin, soy sauce, rice vinegar, Sriracha, and salt in a small bowl, stirring with a whisk. Serve sauce with lettuce cups.

Splurge vs. Steal

2011-01-19T10:59:00.001-06:00

One of the below shoes is $75 and the other is $678. They are both similar and from the same department store...which would you pick if you didn't know the price??

Spring Fever

2011-01-18T15:18:00.002-06:00

Who's ready for Spring? I am so over the cold yucky weather. I love snow and appreciate the cooler temps after 100+ degree Memphis summers but enough already! Below are a couple outfits to help put you in the Spring mood!

In your 20's

Top: Sunny Safari Blouse - Anthropologie
Pants: Always Skinny Cords - Gap
Pumps: Marble Carved Peep Toe - Anthropologie
Bag: Dawn Side Gathered Straw Tote - Melie Bianco
Earrings: GOA Pendant Earrings - Stella & Dot

In your 30's

Top: Classic Peasant Henley - Anthropologie
Pants: Always Skinny Cords - Gap
Shoes: Indigo by Clark's - Piperlime
Bag: Mary Front Zipper Tote - Melie Bianco
Scarf: Starry Binkath Scarf - Anthropologie

In your 40's

Top: Silk Blooms Eternal Top - Anthropologie
Pants: Cotton and Linen Denim Trouser - Loft
Shoes: Cream of the Crop - Piperlime
Bag: Savannah Woven Tote - Melie Bianco
Earrings: Garden Party Chandelier - Stella & Dot

In your 50's

Sweater: Jeweler's Choice Cardigan - Anthropologie
Pants: Cotton and Linen Denim Trouser - Loft
Shoes: B. Makowsky Mary Flat - Nordstrom
Bag: Dawn Side Gathered Straw Tote - Melie Bianco
Earrings: Mira Stone Stud - Stella & Dot

Oreo Cheesecake Cookies

2011-01-18T13:59:00.001-06:00

These are a must try!

Ingredients:

½ cups Unsalted Butter, Softened

3 ounces, weight Cream Cheese, softened

1 cup Sugar

1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

1 cup All-purpose Flour

½ cups Mini Chocolate Chips

1 cup Oreo Cookie Crumbs

½ cups White Chocolate Chips, Melted (optional)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside.

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and cream cheese using a hand mixer until they are well combined.

Add the sugar and vanilla and mix until ingredients are well combined. Add the flour and mix on low until the flour is incorporated. Stir in the mini chocolate chips.

Scoop the dough into 1″ balls (I used a scoop to insure all measured the same) and roll in Oreo cookie crumbs so cookie is covered. Place covered cookie balls onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the tops are slightly puffed.

Cool on the pan for two minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool. Once cool, drizzle cookies with melted white chocolate. Enjoy!

Yummy!!

Via Tasty Kitchen

Happy New Year!

2011-01-04T10:07:00.002-06:00

I can't believe Christmas has already come and gone...it went by so fast! Do you make New Year's Resolutions? I have made a couple this year- one being to do a better job at planning ahead meals for the week. This makes things so much easier. Make a menu for the week, look at the ingredients and make a grocery list.....why does this seem so hard sometimes when it really isn't?

Last night I made: The Pioneer Woman's Meatballs with Peppers and Pineapple

I'm usually not a fan of frying good- I think I have only fried maybe 5 things before in my life but these were good and easy and not greasy at all.

Here is the recipe:

Ingredients

1-¼ pound Ground Beef
½ whole Onion, Diced Very Finely
1 whole Egg
½ cups Panko Bread Crumbs (I made my own in my food processor)
1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
Freshly Ground Black Pepper, To Taste
½ teaspoons Crushed Red Pepper, More To Taste
¼ cups All-purpose Flour
Canola Oil, For Frying
2 whole Green Bell Peppers, Seeded And Diced Roughly
1-½ cup Fresh Pineapple Chunks
2 cups Beef Stock Or Broth
2 Tablespoons Soy Sauce
½ cups Sherry Or White Wine Vinegar
⅓ cups Sugar
1 Tablespoon Cornstarch
Salt To Taste
Crushed Red Pepper, To Taste
Extra Beef Stock If Needed

Preparation Instructions

Combine ground beef, diced onion, egg, salt, pepper, breadcrumbs, and crushed red pepper. Mix with hands until combined. Roll meat mixture into small balls and place on a cookie sheet. Freeze on the pan for 15 minutes to firm.

Mix together beef stock, soy sauce, sherry (or vinegar), sugar, and cornstarch.

Heat canola oil over medium-high heat. Roll meatballs in flour, then fry in two batches until nice and brown, about two minutes per batch. Remove meatballs and set aside on a separate plate.

Pour off oil from pan and return pan to medium high heat. When pan is hot, throw in the chopped green peppers and cook for one minute. Add pineapple to pan and cook for one minute, stirring gently. Pour in stock/soy sauce mixture, then add meatballs. Stir gently to combine and allow to cook and bubble for a few minutes, or until sauce is thickened. Add salt and crushed red peppers to taste. (Hint: this dish is yummy if it’s a little spicy.)

I served mine over brown rice and it was great!

Other items on the menu this week:

Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Beef Enchilada Casserole

Turkey Burgers with Broccoli Slaw

Roast with Veggies and a Salad

Have a good week!

I finished!

2010-12-06T09:50:00.007-06:00

The St. Jude Half Marathon is over! The weather could not have been any better- it was a perfect day for running! I finished in 2 hours and 5 minutes and I beat my time from last year by 2 whole minutes. :)

Here are a couple pictures from the day...

Right after I finished and received my pretty shiny finishers medal.

My sweet nephew came to cheer me on.

And my mom, sister and brother in law (behind the camera) also came to cheer me on!

Have a great week!

Girl in Motion

2010-12-01T14:57:00.004-06:00

The St. Jude Half is this weekend! YAY! I can't believe it's finally here. I am so excited, anxious, and nervous. My training was going very well until about 7 weeks ago when I started experiencing serious knee pain after an extremely hilly 10 miler. EEK! After visiting the doc and a physical therapist, we determined it was hurting from overuse which is a very common knee injury among runners. I basically could not train for 3 weeks then I had the stomach bug for over a week so my training got put on hold for a little over a month and it was very frustrating! Being that close to the half, I didn't know if I would be too far behind to continue but I have done 2 successful long runs the past 2 weekends...WOOHOO...so I am as ready as I am going to be.

My goal this year was to kick last years time in the butt! Last year I finished 2:07 which I was very pleased with for my first half. I don't know that I will be beating that this year after my set back but completing 13.1 miles is an accomplishment in itself no matter how long it takes. :)

Please keep all the runners who will be participating in the St. Jude Marathon in your prayers this weekend! Unless you run, have run or are married to a runner, you do not understand the time and dedication it takes! I want to thank my hubby for putting up with my frustrations and worrying and obsessing over the last several weeks-- - you rock for listening to me or at least making me think you do. ;)

And what post would be complete without clothes?? If I am going be a sweaty mess when I finish the half...I at least want to be a CUTE sweaty mess.

Pullover: Nike Element 1/2 Zip- Dick's Sporting Goods
Top: Nike - Dick's Sporting Goods
Shorts: Nike Tempo Shorts- Dick's Sporting Goods
Shoes: Nike Zoom Structure- Zappos.com
Hat: Nike Running Hat- Dick's Sporting Goods

Fa la la la la

2010-11-22T14:22:00.006-06:00

When I think about all the holiday functions I will go to this year, what first comes to mind is what I will be wearing. Duh! Like I really need an excuse to go shopping. :)

The below top from Anthropologie would be super cute with Gap's Legging Jeans in True Black.

Top: Arabesque Top from Anthropologie
Jeans: Legging Jeans in True Black from Gap
Bag: Nancy Ruffle Fringe Clutch from Melie Bianco
Pumps: Slinking Frills Pumps from Anthropologie

I am also loving the Nine to Five Glamour Skirt from Modcloth!

Top: Silky Cascade Ruffle Blouse in Caviar from the Gap
Skirt: Nine to Five Glamour Skirt from Modcloth
Shoes: Steve Madden 'Carlsen' Bootie in Black from Nordstrom
Tights: Pointelle Tights in Black from Anthropologie
Clutch: Adele Wooden Frame Clutch in Taupe from Melie Bianco
Bangle: Large Feather Bangle from Revolve Clothing
Bangle: Detailed High Polish Bangle from Forever 21

happy shopping!

Gobble Gobble

2010-11-22T14:12:00.007-06:00

What are you in charge of bringing to your Thanksgiving Dinner? It is my year to go to my hubby's family Thanksgiving lunch and they usually have about 50 people!! YIKES! I am trying to decide what to make. I have a recipe for Gourmet Potato Casserole that is always good but as I was flipping through my new Southern Living magazine today, I came across Parmesan Corn Pudding that looks delicious AND has normal ingredients. I am thinking about trying this instead.

Ingredients

2 (12-oz.) packages frozen white shoepeg corn, thawed and divided
1/3 cup sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons plain yellow cornmeal
1/2 teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons butter, melted
1 1/2 cups milk
4 large eggs
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
1/2 cup (2 oz.) shredded Parmesan cheese
Garnish: chopped fresh chives

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350°. Place 1 package of corn and next 7 ingredients (in order listed) in a large food processor. Process until smooth, stopping to scrape down sides.

2. Transfer mixture to a large bowl; stir in chives and remaining corn. Pour mixture into a lightly greased 2-qt. baking dish; sprinkle with cheese.

3. Bake at 350° for 40 to 45 minutes or until set. Garnish, if desired.

Enjoy!

What is your favorite Thanksgiving dish or do you wish you could skip the holiday all together?! I always look forward to the dessert table. Yum.

At Your Service Part 2 and Cream Cheese Brownies

2010-11-03T13:59:00.005-05:00

After last weeks post I did have a request (YAY!) to create an outfit for Holiday parties. I will say this has been a little tougher than I thought because my friend, Jessica, is expecting and who knew how difficult it would be to find cute maternity clothes?? Anyway, I was definitely up for the challenge and I hope she likes it! :)

Top: www.duematernity.com Snow Print Tunic
Pants: www.motherhood.com Loved by Heidi Klum Stretch pants
Boots: www.shoes.com Chinese Laundry Women's Newbie in Cognac
Bag: www.meliebianco Gathered Satchel in Mustard
Scarf: www.piperlime.com Tinley Road Infinity Scarf in Cream
Bangles: www.loftonline.com Gold Bangle Set

I love sweets and am always looking for "lite" recipes that are actually good. I made these over the weekend and they pass the yummy taste test!

Cream Cheese Brownies from Cooking Light

Ingredients
Brownies:
Cooking Spray
1/2 C Butter, Softened
1 1/2 C sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 large egg whites
1 large egg
2/3 C unsweetened cocoa
1/2 C fat-free milk
1 1/2 C all purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt

Topping:
1 8 ounce black 1/3-less-fat cream cheese
1 Tablespoon cornstarch
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 14 ounce can fat-free sweetened condensed milk
1 large egg

Preparation:
-Preheat oven to 350 degrees
-Coat bottom of a 13x9-inch baking pan with cooking spray

To prepare batter, place butter in a large bowl; beat with a mixer at medium speed until fluffy. Add sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla; beat until well blended (About 5 minutes). Add egg whites and egg, 1 at a time; beating well (mixture will appear curdled). Lightly spoon flour into a dry measuring cup; level with a knife. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt; stir with a whisk. Add to cocoa mixture; beat at low speed just until blended. Spoon batter into prepared pan.

To prepare topping, place cream cheese in a large bowl and beat with a mixer at medium speed until smooth. Gradually add cornstarch and remaining ingredients and beat until smooth. Spread evenly over batter. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes (mine took longer) or until set.

Enjoy!

At Your Service

2010-10-22T10:44:00.005-05:00

I. love. shopping. Not only do I love shopping for myself, I also enjoy helping pick out clothes or outfits for friends and family. Since I have no one to use as my "project" for today, (any volunteers for future post?!?!?) I am going to put together an outfit for who ever will listen. :)

Skirt: Quiet Approach www.anthropologie.com
Sweater: Summer's Reminder Cardi www.anthropologie.com
Bag: Tara Double Handle www.meliebianco.com
Bootie: Report 'Ariella' Bootie www.nordstrom.com
Tights: Herringbone Tights www.ae.com

Fall Food

2010-10-14T11:14:00.007-05:00

My favorite thing about Fall (besides Football and shopping for new clothes of course) is the Fall recipes I get to start cooking! I usually only make soups in the Fall/Winter and I really don't know why that is because they are really good any time of year. It's just hard to eat a hot bowl of soup when it's 100+ degrees outside. Maybe it's just me.
Here are two I have made recently...more to come!

The Pioneer Woman's Corn Chowder with Chilies

I made this last night, served it with sourdough bread and it was yum-y.

2 Slices of Bacon cut in small strips
2 Tablespoons Butter
1-½ whole Yellow Onion, Diced
5 ears Corn, Shucked (about 4 Cups)
2 whole Chipotle Peppers In Adobo Sauce, Finely Diced
1 whole 4-ounce Can Diced Green Chilies
32 ounces low sodium chicken broth
1-½ cup Heavy Whipping Cream
½ teaspoons Kosher Salt (more To Taste)
3 Tablespoons Corn Meal OR Masa
¼ cups Water

Preparation Instructions
Slice the corn off the cob and set aside
Add bacon pieces and cook over medium heat for a couple minutes.
Add onion and cook for additional 4 minutes.
Add butter and melt then add corn and cook for one more minute.
Add both chilies and stir.
Pour in chicken broth and cream and add salt.
Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low.
Combine cornmeal or masa with water then pour into the chowder. Cover and cook for 15 minutes over low heat. Add more cornmeal or masa if you prefer the soup to be thicker.
Cook for additional 10 minutes them simmer over low heat until ready to serve.

Pumpkin Bread

1 cup Crisco oil
4 eggs
2/3 cup water
2 cups pumpkin
3 1/2 cups flour
2 1/2 cups sugar
2 t baking soda
1 t nutmeg
1 t cinnamon
1/2 t salt

Preparation Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Blend together in mixer, oil, eggs, water, sugar and pumpkin.style
Mix together dry ingredients in a separate bowl, then slowly add to pumpkin mixture. Beat until well blended. Add raisins and nuts. (optional- I did not add)
Grease and flour 2 large loaf pans or several mini pans 2/3 full.Bake for 1 hour and 10 minutes for large loafs and less for mini or until bread passes the clean toothpick test!

What are your favorite Fall recipes??

Cute Jackets and Banana Bread

2010-10-01T11:06:00.008-05:00

I realized when going through my Fall clothes that I have an obsession...with jackets. I have about 10 of them in my closet now and I have not even unpacked all my clothes from last year. They are really versatile though and great for layering. I absolutely love the cooler weather but when it gets super cold, I always get annoyed when you go into a building and they have the heat cranked up to what feels like 100 degrees and you have dressed for the freezing temperatures outside and are now sweating bullets because it's so dang hot Ha.

My hubby tells me all my clothes look alike (thanks!) and I'm sure he will disagree that I need more cute little jackets but it seems that when I go in to a store they are all screaming at me to try them on...does anybody else have a problem with that?!

Below are a couple that have been calling my name ~~and will more than likely make it into my closet this year~~ ...

From L to R:
1. Half Pass Jacket www.anthropologie.com
2. Military Shirt Jacket www.freepeople.com
3. Expatriate Jacket www.modcloth.com
4. Full Tweet Ahead www.modcloth.com
5. Maximum Capacity Jacket www.anthropologie.com

And-what better way to celebrate the nice Fall temps than with some super delicious unhealthy Banana Nut Bread?!

Super Yummy Banana Nut Bread
*Warning: Habit Forming

Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 cup butter
2 cups white sugar
2 cups mashed overripe bananas
4 eggs, beaten
1 cup chopped walnuts

Directions:
-Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour two 9x5 inch loaf pans.
-Mix flour, salt and baking soda in a large bowl. In separate bowl, mix butter and sugar until smooth. Stir in the bananas, eggs and walnuts until well blended. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir until blended. Divide batter evenly between the two loaf pans.
-Bake for 60 to 70 minutes until a knife inserted comes out clean. Cool in the pans for approx 5 minutes then turn out onto cooling rack and cool completely. Wrap in aluminum foil to keep in the moisture.

If you are like me, the delicious smell with over come you and the cool completely step with be omitted and you will have devoured about half the loaf before you are even able to get the aluminum foil out...enjoy!

TheGreatestOfTheseIsLove

2010-09-24T16:03:00.009-05:00

Training for the St. Jude Half Marathon is in full swing and I am so looking forward to cooler weather!! Where is it?!?! It sure does not seem like Fall because Memphis has had record-breaking temperatures all week! I am up to 7 miles and it feels great to be over half way there in my training! This year I decided to do the Memphis Runners Track Club Road Race Series. Even though I run 5 to 6 times a week, recently purchased a Garmin (which I LOVE and highly recommend) and have run in countless races over the summer- I still get intimidated when I show up and see all the "serious" runners doing 1 to 3 mile WARM UPS!! Seriously...I don't consider that a warm up!

A friend and I have started a St. Jude Heroes Team to raise money and help support the research of cancer. Our team name is TheGreatestofTheseIsLove. I'm sure everyone knows someone who has been affected by cancer- it's such a horrible disease and has taken so many precious lives way too early. I would love to someday say that my fundraising efforts helped with the research that found a cure for Cancer...how awesome would that be?

I seriously hate asking people for money...BUT...if any of my 4 readers would like to make a donation (just click on team name above), then I will no longer expect you to wait in Autozone Park in the freezing cold weather to watch me cross the finish line. ;) Only exception to this is the hubby who better be there with bells on.

1 Corinthians 13:13
And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

2010-09-17T10:55:00.013-05:00

I made this recipe last week and it was sooo good! It's definitely going to be entered in to my recipe bank since it even scored yummy points with the hubby. It's actually "lite" which makes it even better! So easy to make and throw together for a quick meal.

Ingredients
1 cup water
1 (14-ounce) can fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
6 ounces uncooked linguine
1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 1/2 tablespoons butter
1 (8-ounce) package presliced mushrooms
1 large red bell pepper, cut into (1/4-inch-thick) slices
2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
1/4 teaspoon salt
2/3 cup half-and-half
1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Preparation
Combine 1 cup water and broth in a medium pan; bring to a boil. Break pasta in half; add to pan. Bring mixture to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 8 minutes. Add shrimp to pan. Cover and simmer for 3 minutes or until shrimp are done; drain.

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and pepper to pan; sauté 4 minutes or until moisture evaporates. Add flour, seasoning, and salt to pan; sauté 30 seconds. Stir in half-and-half; cook 1 minute or until thick, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Add pasta mixture and parsley to pan; toss.

The Good Wife

2010-09-02T11:02:00.004-05:00

Some of you may have seen this before but I came across it today and cannot believe this was actually published in a magazine!!! The below article was featured in a 1955 Housekeeping Monthly publication.

-Have dinner ready. Plan ahead, even the night before, to have a delicious meal ready, on time for his return. This is a way of letting him know that you have been thinking about him and are concerned about his needs. Most men are hungry when they come home and the prospect of a good meal (especially his favourite dish) is part of the warm welcome needed.

-Prepare yourself. Take 15 minutes to rest so you'll be refreshed when he arrives. Touch up your make-up, put a ribbon in your hair and be fresh-looking. He has just been with a lot of work-weary people.

-Be a little gay and a little more interesting for him. His boring day may need a lift and one of your duties is to provide it.

-Clear away the clutter. Make one last trip through the main part of the house just before your husband arrives.

-Gather up schoolbooks, toys, paper, etc and then run a dishcloth over the tables.

-Over the cooler months of the year you should prepare and light a fire for him to unwind by. Your husband will feel he has reached a haven of rest and order, and it will give you a lift too. After all, catering for his comfort will provide you will immense personal satisfaction.

-Prepare the children. Take a few minutes to wash the children's hands and faces (if they are small), comb their hair and, if necessary, change their clothes. They are little treasures and he would like to see them playing the part. Minimise all noise. At the time of his arrival, eliminate all noise of the washer, dryer, or vacuum. Try to encourage the children to be quiet.

-Be happy to see him.

-Greet him with a warm smile and show sincerity in your desire to please him.

-Listen to him. You may have a dozen important things to tell him, but the moment of his arrival is not the time. Let him talk first- remember his topics of conversation are more important than yours.

-Make the evening his. Never complain if he comes home late or goes out to dinner, or other places of entertainment without you. Instead, try to understand his world of strain and pressure and his very real need to be at home and relax.

-Your goal: Try to make sure your home is a place of peace, order and tranquility, where your husband can renew himself in body and spirit.

-Don't greet him with complaints and problems.

-Don't complain if he's late home for dinner or even if he stays out all night. Count this as minor compared to what he might have gone through that day.

-Make him comfortable. Have him lean back in a comfortable chair or have him lie down in the bedroom. Have a cool or warm drink ready for him.

-Arrange his pillow and offer to take off his shoes. Speak in a low, soothing and pleasant voice.

-Don't ask him questions about his actions or question his judgment or integrity. Remember, he is the master of the house and as such will always exercise his will with fairness and truthfulness. You have no right to question him.

-A good wife always knows her place.

Really? We have seriously come a long way!!

Ultimate Tailgating

2010-09-01T11:01:00.008-05:00

I am so excited about College Football starting this week! It's a good thing I love football because if I didn't- it would not be fun at my house during football season because my hubby watches every single game that comes on...seriously. My TWO teams are Ole Miss and Tennessee. I'm not sure how good either team will be this year but am anxious to find out. I grew up being a Tennessee fan. I do still love the Vols but I have been to more Ole Miss games over the past 4 years, know all about what is going on, know players names and the positions they play, have even made two trips to Dallas, TX to cheer on the Rebels in the Cotton Bowl and have sang the Hotty Toddy countless times, so I feel like a true fan.

If you have ever been to the Grove, you know how elaborate some of the tents get. It is crazy how extreme some people are- - do you really need a chandelier and over the top centerpieces for tailgating?? Well in the Grove, you do.

Below are a couple of my favorite tailgating recipes to go along with the usual chicken fingers, barbecue, burgers and sausage and cheese plates!

Dixie Caviar
Ingredients:
2 (15.8-oz.) cans black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
2 cups frozen whole kernel corn
2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
1 medium-size green bell pepper, finely chopped
1 small sweet onion, finely chopped
4 green onions, sliced
1 to 2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and minced
1 to 2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup Italian dressing
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 cup sour cream
Tortilla chips
Garnish: cilantro sprig

Preparation:
1. Combine first 9 ingredients in a large zip-top plastic freezer bag. Seal and chill 24 hours; drain. 2. Spoon mixture into a serving bowl. Stir in cilantro, and top with sour cream and cilantro. Serve with tortilla chips.
Makes 6 cups

Goat Cheese Torta
Ingredients:

16 ounces cream cheese, softened
8 ounces mild goat cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 teaspoons fresh oregano, snipped or chopped
1/8 teaspoon ground pepper
1/4 cup pesto
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil
2 tablespoons slivered almonds, toasted
fresh oregano
stone ground crackers or baguette, thinly sliced

Directions:
Line a 1-quart loaf or souffle pan with clear plastic wrap. In a food processor bowl or large mixer bowl, combine cream cheese, goat cheese, garlic, oregano and pepper. Process or beat with electric mixer until smooth. Spread 1/3 of the cheese mixture in the bottom of the pan. Top with pesto, spreading evenly. Layer with another 1/3 of the cheese mixture.

Drain sun-dried tomatoes, reserving one tomato for garnish. Chop remaining tomatoes. Spread chopped sun-dried tomatoes evenly over cheese mixture in pan. Top with remaining cheese mixture. Cover with plastic wrap, and press gently to pack the cheese. Chill several hours.

Uncover cheese; invert onto serving plate. Cut reserved sun-dried tomato into thin slices. Garnish with thin slices of sun-dried tomato, the toasted almonds and fresh oregano or parsley. Serve with crackers of choice!

Toffee Bars

Ingredients:

1 cup butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 1/2 packages saltine crackers (broken)
1 (12 ounce) package milk chocolate chips

1 cup of pecans or nuts for topping

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F

2. Line a cookie sheet with aluminum foil and grease the foil
3. In a small saucepan over medium-high heat melt butter with brown sugar; bring to a boil for 3 minutes and remove from heat.
4. Arrange crackers on the lined cookie sheet. Pour butter mixture over crackers.
5. Bake in preheated oven for 5 minutes.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle chocolate chips over crackers and mixture. Spread chocolate over crackers as it melts. Once the crackers and mixture are covered with chocolate- add the pecans and refrigerate for 1 hour. Break into bars and enjoy!

Haystacks

Ingredients:

1 package butterscotch chips
3/4 cup peanut butter
2 small packages of chow mein noodles
1 cup miniature marshmallows

Directions:

First heat peanut butter in deep pot at medium heat. Then stir in butterscotch chips, reducing heat to low. Remove pot from burner, adding in noodles a little at a time while stirring the mixture.
Once combined, add in marshmallows (make sure mixture isn't hot or they will melt) and continue to combine all.
Once all ingredients are coated, spoon out onto wax paper and allow one hour for them to set.

Please send me your favorites-I am always up for trying new recipes!

Flats or Pumps?

2010-08-24T14:17:00.016-05:00

Which do you prefer? I never wear flats. I'm sure they are comfy, just never seem to find any I really like. All my pants and jeans are long so what do you do when you want to wear flats?? I seriously think I would have to buy shorter pants... Anyway, there are some super cute flats now that all the Fall shoes are out so I am thinking about getting a pair (or two) this year.
1. Anthropologie: Chamelion Skimmers
2. Macy's: Jessica Simpson Ellye
3. Dillard's: Gianni Bini "Agate"
4. Anthropologie: Mudslide
5. Macy's: G by Guess Mecca
6. Dillard's: Jessica Simpson "Lepolia"

Lunch Outside the Box

2010-08-18T10:22:00.010-05:00

Although I try to "brown bag" on most days, I do love getting out of the office at least one day a week to either try a new place or an old favorite. There are so many great places to choose from this is going to be hard to just pick a few! I do like the Lenny's, Bogie's, Jason's Deli, etc but when you are in the mood to step outside the box here are a couple places I recommend.

Trolley Stop Market: 704 Madison Avenue

Yum, yum!! This is my new favorite. Each day they have lunch specials- usually two meats and a long list of fresh veggies that can be found on their chalkboard wall behind the counter. They have a regular menu that features sandwiches and salads and also have awesome pizza's and homemade desserts to choose from each day. My favorites are the BLT with Pimento Cheese, Meat and 3, Margarita Pizza and the Texas Sheet Cake which definitely gets its name from the size! You can't leave without walking around where you will see local art, jewelry, soaps, flowers, and fresh veggies from local farmers. Love the food and the atmosphere! It has only been opened a couple months now but is always packed!!

Cafe Ecletic: 603 N. McLean or 111 Harbortown Square

This quaint little coffee shop is a must try and they just recently opened a Little Cafe Eclectic in Harbor Town. They have great coffee, sandwiches, salads and soups and although I have never tried anything from their Bakery- it all looks fabulous! My two favorites are the Grilled Chicken with Pineapple and the BLT&A sandwiches. Have also heard their breakfast is great!

Cafe Palladio: 2169 Central Avenue Located inside Palladio Antiques. Great sandwiches and salads! The Southern Fried Green Tomato sandwich is so so good. They usually have a coupon you can print off from the web for a free dessert. Their cakes are from Sugaree's Bakery in New Albany, MS and if you have ever had one from there- you know how good it is! The caramel cake is hard to pass up. The antiques are also fabulous but a little too pricey for me...always fun to window shop!

A couple other places I recommend are Bronte' located in Davis Kidd Bookstore, Little Tea Shop, Au Fond Farmtable, and Bosco's. Let me know what your favorites are! I love trying new places!

Ohhh Running

2010-08-12T10:19:00.008-05:00

I definitely was not born a runner. I started running in Middle School because we were forced to do it during basketball and I actually enjoyed it and have continued to run on and off ever since. Running to me is about setting personal goals and achieving personal victories. I ran the St. Jude Half Marathon last year. It was my first half and I loved it. There is just something about the people cheering, high-fives, bands, going through the St. Jude campus, the funny signs (my favorite was one at mile 10 that said...Your feet are hurting because your kicking a$$!!), hearing your name announced once you cross the finish line in Autozone park, and even the random belly dancers in front of Wendy's that keep you going no matter how bad your feet, legs and knees are aching. Seeing the finish line in the distance and getting that shiny medal gives you a feeling of accomplishment you never forget.
I have signed up for the St. Jude half again and am hoping to kick last years time in the butt! :) The Memphis heat is horrendous so in June I decided to go ahead and start training and getting up every morning and running at least 3 miles. I honestly didn't think I would stick with this but here I am 8 weeks and 127 miles later.

Since my hubby bailed on me and will not be running in it this year...if any of my 3 readers would like to join me when it's cooler at Shelby Farms for long runs- let me know! :)

I will leave this exciting blog post with a song from U2 that's always included on my running play list...

I have climbed highest mountains
I have run through the fields
Only to be with you
Only to be with you
I have run
I have crawled
I have scaled these city walls
These city walls
Only to be with you

But I still haven't found what I'm looking for

I have kissed honey lips
Felt the healing in her fingertips
It burned like a fire
This burning desire

I have spoke with the tongue of angels
I have held the hand of a devil
It was warm in the night
I was cold as a stone

But I still haven't found what I'm looking for

I believe in the Kingdom Come
Then all the colors will bleed into one
Bleed into one
But yes I'm still running

You broke the bones
And you loosed the chains
Carried the cross
Of my shame
Of my shame
You know I believe it

But I still haven't found what I'm looking for

One Dish Dinner

2010-08-10T09:41:00.004-05:00

Who doesn't love a one dish dinner?? This recipe is so good and easy and can be prepared a day before.

Mexican Casserole:

Ingredients:
* 2 10-3/4-ounce cans reduced-sodium condensed cream of chicken soup
* 1 10-ounce can diced tomatoes with green chiles, undrained
* 3/4 cup chopped green sweet pepper
* 1 10-ounce can black beans, drained
* 1/2 cup chopped onion
* 1-1/2 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 12 6- or 7-inch corn tortillas, cut into thin, bite-size strips
* 3 cups cubed cooked chicken
* 1 8-ounce package (2 cups) shredded cheddar cheese
* Tomato slices
* Sliced green onions

Directions:
1. Combine soup, tomatoes with chiles, sweet pepper, onion, black beans, chili powder, and black pepper; set aside.
2. To assemble, sprinkle about one-third of the tortilla strips over the bottom of an ungreased 13x9x2-inch baking dish or 3-quart rectangular casserole. Layer half of the chicken over tortilla strips; spoon half of soup mixture on top. Sprinkle half of the cheese and another one-third of the tortilla strips over the soup mixture. Layer with remaining chicken, soup mixture, and tortilla strips.
3. Bake, uncovered, in 350 degree oven about 45 minutes or until bubbly around edges and center is hot. Remove from oven; sprinkle with remaining cheese. Let stand 10 minutes before serving. If desired, top with sliced tomatoes, green onions and sour cream. Makes 8 servings.

Enjoy!

Favorite Accessory

2010-08-09T13:40:00.005-05:00

One of my favorite go to accessories is a belt. They are so functional and can completely change the look of any outfit. Many of the tops and dresses now are loose fitting and while this is the "trend" it's not always the most flattering. Belts are so affordable. I like to stick with basic colors because they are more versatile but it's also fun to add some color every now and then as well. Below are a couple I have found all under $40!

1. Urban Outfitters BDG Stretch Equestrian: $28
2. Modcloth Buffalo Jill: $32.99
3. Macy's Rachel Roy Skinny Double Wrap: $38
4. Anthropologie Tellicherry: $28
5. Anthropologie Coded Cutout: $38
6. Urban Outfitters Urban Renewal Leather Wrap: $28

Table Hopping

2010-08-06T09:43:00.017-05:00

One benefit of living in a city is great restaurants and Memphis definitely has its fair share. I love supporting locally owned businesses and restaurants. Memphis has recently started a campaign called Project Green Fork and many restaurants have come on board with this. Project Green Fork contributes to a sustainable Mid-South by helping reduce environmental impacts, with a focus on strengthening homegrown restaurants. I also believe the campaign supports local farmers which is great to know that when you dine out, not only are you supporting a local business owner but a local farmer too!

A few of my local favorites:

Restaurant Iris: I don't think you could go wrong with anything on the menu here. They do occasionally change their menu but my recommendations are: "grilled cheese," sweet corn griddle cakes, raviolo, and the surf and turf. The entrees are pricey but the food and the atmosphere are worth every penny!

Spindini: This is my go to favorite for downtown. I love the layout of the restaurant and it's also a great place to people watch! Jason and I almost always get the Lobster Pizza and the Tuscan Butter=YUM, however I have changed it up on occasion and also love the Tuna Carpaccio, Caramelized Scallops, the Halibut and the Filet. On Monday nights they even have half price pizzas and half price bottles of wine!

Flight: I love the concept of getting to try 3 different small plates which they consider a Flight. They also have drink flights as well...so neat! If only one item on the menu sounds good, you can just get one big entree. I just recently found out that you can actually get one item off the seafood flight, one off the fish flight and so on. Check out their menu for all the details! I have only eaten here twice but you can't beat the food and service.

Itta Bena: Itta Bena is named after a small town in MS and is located above BB King's. When entering the restaurant, you almost feel like you are going to a private place because they do not even have a sign outside. This place has the coolest ambiance and the food is amazing. My favorites are the fried green tomatoes with shrimp and remoulade, scallops with grits, baby spinach salad, and the crawfish mac and cheese. So good and so fun!

You can't forget about dessert!!

My two favorite places are the Cheesecake Corner located downtown in the South Main district and Muddy's Bake Shop located in East Memphis.

The Cheesecake Corner has unbelievable cheesecake in almost any flavor you can imagine. I would recommend splitting one unless you are super hungry because they are very large!

At Muddy's Bake Shop, for only $1.50 you can enjoy a perfectly sized made from scratch cupcake. My favorite is the Strawberry Fields Forever but I have tried a few of the others and they are all delicious.

It's Fall Y'all

2010-08-05T13:53:00.010-05:00

Well...maybe not quite but according to retail it is. I just can't bring myself to try on Fall clothes when it's 100+ degrees outside. So, I have been doing some browsing online to see what's in store. So far I have seen a lot of mustard-ish, eggplant and grey colors which I am loving. Below are some of the favorites I have found and am hoping to add to my Fall wardrobe.

From Left:
1. Short Sleeve Dolman Cardigan www.loftonline.com
2. Remain Ruffed Tank www.nordstrom.com
3. Aspiring Atoms Necklace www.anthropologie.com
4. Terrace House Jacket www.anthropologie.com
5. Ruffle Trim Crop www.nordstrom.com
6. JS by Jessica Oscar Pumps www.dsw.com
7. Twisted Neck Exposed Bank Zip Top www.loftonline.com
8. Janbag Wristlet www.etsy.com

What are your go to shops for updating your wardrobe?

The Cousar Casa

2010-07-30T09:19:00.023-05:00

When Jason and I first started looking at houses, I told him my ~~unrealistic?~~ ideal house would: be between Yates and Perkins and Poplar and Walnut Grove, not be on a busy street, have a fenced in back yard so Bosco could run around, have big trees in the front yard, 3 (preferably 4) bedrooms with 2.5 baths, an open kitchen/living area, a formal dining room with separate breakfast area, a carport or garage, a separate laundry room...and I think that's it. Was that too much to ask?? While I didn't think I would get everything on my list I was hopeful to find in my mind a house that was close to perfect. Can you believe my hubby found a house with all of the above criteria?? Me either!! Well....it didn't have all of the criteria but it wasn't something that sledge hammers, plumbers, electricians, brick masons, painters, carpenters, knocking out walls, completely moving the kitchen, turning a closet in to a 1/2 bath and a hard working hubby couldn't do!

When I look back on how fast everything came together, I am still amazed. They (meaning the short list of people mentioned above) completely renovated our house in a mere 6 weeks.

Before and After Pictures:

This area is now the Kitchen:
Breakfast Area:

Living Room:

Hope you have a great weekend and do something to stay cool!

Hello Blogworld...

2010-07-29T13:16:00.003-05:00

elcome!! So, I finally caved and decided to create a blog. I absolutely love blogs about decorating, cooking, and fashion and since a lot of my friends have them I thought....why not?

Running in Stilettos....I have actually been known to do this before (successfully) and feel like the title fits my life right now because it seems that I am always running literally or figuratively.