Friday, September 30, 2011

Badger Game Day

Well it's that time of year. The leaves are turning, the air is getting crisp and the Badgers are playing their biggest game of the season! Every year there is one game that lures all UW alumni out of the woodwork to dust of their badger gear and come to Madison to indulge in cheese curds and endless fountains of beer. That game happens to be this weekend and also happens to be the Badgers first conference match up against the big bad Nebraska Cornhuskers. Fingers crossed for a legendary repeat of last years OSU win (if that's even  possible to replicate). ON WISCONSIN!


XO

Monday, September 26, 2011

Best of Charleston

My mom and I had the pleasure of spending a long weekend in Charleston and all I can say is what a great city! Gorgeous architecture, mixed with fab shopping, amazing eats, beautiful coastline, southern comfort and so much more. I could probably write a few posts about our fun times but will narrow down the highlights. 

#1: Fabulous Food: Husk, FIG and Hominy Grill

Recently chosen as the "Best New Restaurant in America" by Bon Apetit. Great food but surely not better than FIG. Highlights included deep fried chicken skins dipped in a hot sauce/SC honey combo. YUM!
A classic southern comfort spot. Highlights included our first ever taste of boiled peanuts- I'm a fan! 
Best for last. FIG is one of our best eats of all time. Impeccable service with an atmosphere oozing southern hospitality. We began with an insanely delicious cocktail (prosecco, sweet vermouth and elderflower syrup). From there every dish was just as tantalizing as the last. Tomato tarte tatin with fromage blanc and tapenade (pictured above), coddled egg with parsnip cream, parmesan and mushroom, RIcotta gnocchi with a spicy lamb bolognese and an incredible sticky sorghum cake. No way to describe the deliciousness!

#2: Gorgeous Homes


I think it goes without saying that Charleston has some pretty amazing historic homes.  Antiques and furnishings aside, the incredible porches (piazzas) are beautiful enough to make any homeowner drool.

#3: Shopping Galore!
One word: King Street.

I hope "y'all" are able to explore this wonderful city at some point too!

XO


Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Monogram Madness

Monograms. Some people love 'em some people hate 'em. I'm not one of the monogram obsessed but that doesn't mean I don't love the occasional monogram piece. Below are a few of my favorites:



These would be a great DIY project if you know how to embroider.

XO

Sunday, September 18, 2011

Water for Elephants

One Book Club pick down! 
Water for Elephants has left me so intrigued by circus life that I can't help but stare at the Cavalia tents on my way home from work every day, secretly hoping to catch a glimpse into the lives of traveling performers. 

 For those of you who have not read this book I highly recommend it. A romantic page turner that has something for everyone: historic accounts, love stories, adventure, mystery and of course elephants. 



XO

Friday, September 16, 2011

Friday Photos

Fun photo inspiration for our first Fall weekend :) Fresh caprese salad, Hunter boots and a little Fall crafting sounds delightful!




XO

Thursday, September 15, 2011

See's Pumpkin Spice Lollipops

Does this even need an explanation? 
I will be devouring these as soon as I can get my hands on some!

XO

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Gingham Galore

Dog beds, plates, scarves and more! Loving this years gingham trend. Enjoy your Summer pastels and Fall neutrals before we transition into plaids for the holidays. Yummy!
Gingham Galore!





         XO

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Fall is in the air...

Fall is in the air today, leaving me craving all of my Fall favs.
What do you love about Fall?







XO

Monday, September 12, 2011

k.slademade

Sometimes there is nothing better than finding a great designer with affordable goods. I recently discovered Kelsea Slade of k.slademade and am in love with her clutches and jewelery. Her bracelets are simple, yet perfect for layering on bright colors and her clutches are plain gorgeous. Check out her website or Etsy store if you're looking for a way to add a little pizazz to your life!


XO

Friday, September 9, 2011

Genius Food Idea

This is absolutely genius! I'm not sure how I feel about pasta and hotdogs together but a little pesto sun dried tomato turkey sausage with noodles in it sounds divine. 
Weird or yummy?

XO

Thursday, September 8, 2011

Chi-town Eats

I don't think I'll ever be a permanent big city girl but that doesn't mean I don't love to visit them. Lucky for me, I have friends and family in New York and Chicago leaving me with a million excuses to visit these two fab cities! This past weekend was Chicago's turn and it easily fulfilled my foodie cravings.


Longman & Eagle: Highlights included duck egg hash with black truffle vinaigrette, pork belly BLT and fried chicken/waffles with pork belly hash. YUM YUM YUM. (side note: this restaurant also offers hipster rooms upstairs to stay the night)


Avec: We were so excited to try this place as Pat's sister works there and I've heard great things! Highlights included chorizo stuffed dates, taleggio/ricotta/truffle oil foccacia, slow roast pork shoulder with basil pistou and the list goes on! 




XO

Monday, September 5, 2011

Bascom!

We've officially chosen our puppy, Bascom! I'm counting the days until we get to pick the little bugger up. Until then I will just miss him dearly :)


XO

Friday, September 2, 2011

September September September

Although it's not my favorite month, September always brings so many things to be excited about. 2011 has been no different!
  • Labor Day Weekend (this year we'll be in Chicago picking out our puppy!)
  • The start of the college football season (GO BADGERS!)
  • My sisters birthday (Happy almost 27th!)
  • The start of Fall (September 23rd to be exact)
  • A mother daughter trip to Charleston (can't wait)
  • My nieces birthday (Happy almost 8th!)
  • Only 2 months until Halloween, 3 months until Thanksgiving and 4 until Christmas.

XO