Weekend happenings to pencil in

We are rolling into our weekend with a list full of projects as we prepare to host family next week for my little brother's wedding. Even though we've gotten a lot accomplished with our house, every weekend there's still something left to do, and this weekend isn't any different! I'm hoping we can knock some things out and still get to have a little time to relax, too. 

I usually do a post of links on Mondays, but there are some weekend things going on that I wanted to share with you! Here's a quick round-up of some happenings you don't wait to miss:

It's the last weekend of the Nordstrom sale! The sale ends on August 6th, and while it seems like it's been going on forever, we're nearing the end of being able to snag some great deals. I've made several purchased and have made several returns, too. Here's my FINAL list of what I got: yellow sweater, bell-sleeved sweater, raw hem jeans, most comfortable shoes ever, and a flattering dress perfect for the holidays. 

One of my favorite Atlanta gems, Steve McKenzie's, is having their huge summer sale: the entire store is 20% off. I am going to try to pop over there this weekend because things like lamps, coffee table books, and frames are at even deeper discounts - ranging from 40%-50% off. I definitely need lamps, and I'm positive I could find a few other things, too! 

My dear friend, Lauren, is hosting an event this weekend in honor of her sweet little boy who we lost earlier this year to Mitochondrial Disease. Mimosas for Mito is happening this Sunday from 11-2 at The Ivy in Buckhead. Get your tickets and join us to raise awareness for this devastating disease. 

Total Row extended their five classes for $50 offer through this Sunday! Use the code 5for50 at checkout and then go get your row on. I forgot to get my classes last weekend, so I'll be snapping them up before Sunday - and then maybe I'll see you at a TR class soon! 

Monday, My Day

It's been a while since we had a Monday, My Day post around here, so I thought a rainy Monday would be the perfect time for it. How was everyone's weekend? We spent ours with family and friends, and I have to say, it was the perfect balance of low key and upbeat. Plus we got some house things accomplished last week which means we're finally getting a little more settled. Hooray! Here are some of my favorite links, finds, and happenings:

We'll be basking in the sun at the beach one month from today which means my hunt for a bathing suit is ON. Leave it to Southern Living to round-up some great suits including this one from Lime Ricki. I also have this one headed my way this week. Adorable. 

As you know, I love a fun beauty find. Have y'all heard of Tulip? You can make a one-time purchase or sign-up for a subscription. I'm intrigued! 

Father's Day is just around the corner, and I'm dishing my favorite gifts over on Annette's blog today. 

The bane of my existence every week is meal planning, so when my SIL offered me a free Hello Fresh box, I jumped at the chance. We've had two boxes delivered (and one arriving today!), and I am hooked. Not having to go to the grocery store or talk about what to have for dinner has been life changing. 

I picked-up a few cans of Spiked Seltzer last week, and OMG they're so good for the summer! 

Shout-out to Rachel for sending me the fabulous recommendation for Crazy Love for a client meeting last week. If you're in the ATL area, this place is worth the trip OTP. 

Finally,  in addition to the great swimsuit hunt, I'm also on the great cover-up hunt. I can't find one that I like - 

any suggestions? 

Weekend Reading

Hello from the other side!!! I've had one of those weeks where I was SUPER slammed until midday yesterday, and now I've got nothing on my radar. Does that ever happen to you guys? Because of the workday crazy, the blog fell to the wayside this week. But, I've been hoarding a few fun links for you for this weekend. I always like to catch up on fun reads on the weekends, so I thought I'd share a few of my finds with you. Kinda like Monday, My Day, but on Friday. Haha. 

I usually loathe all of the silly food videos on Facebook, but I was fascinated by this one about using muffin tins to make snacky food. I love tiny foods (because you can eat more of them, obviously), and this video had me enthralled. 

Have you heard that the latest character on Sesame Street has autism? As a former teacher, this made my heart smile. Kiddos with autism are so special to have in your life. I always adored my students with autism, and embraced having them in my classes. 

Drinking while shopping at Target?! You bet. Just watch that $100 cart skyrocket to $200. 

I'm kinda mad that none of my Nashville friends have ever told me about the U.A.L. chain. Road trip, anyone?!

I've never had to be a first responder (wasn't really my thing at school...I freak out in emergencies...I digress)...but this list of songs you can do CPR to is BRILLIANT. It's a great reminder for anytime you might have to help someone - just sing...and focus on the CPR part...

I heart John Krasinski. This Never Have I Ever video makes me love him even more. 

And finally, do yourself a favor and go see Beauty and the Beast. I know, I know, everyone is talking about it, and you don't want to believe it's as good as they say. I promise, it IS as good as they say. I had sort of an epiphany while I was watching the movie. I've always loved all things French, and I seriously think my love came from Beauty and the Beast. I loved how this film made Belle into an even bigger heroine, and all of the actors are phenomenal. Go!

Have a great weekend!

Monday, My Day

Happy Lundi Gras, everyone! We spent a few days in Mobile last week enjoying Mardi Gras celebrations. My second cousin (my mom's cousin), was king of one of the crews in Mobile, so we got all dolled up and spent the evening dancing the night away at his ball. I've been going to Mardi Gras for as long as I can remember, so to see my cousin be king of a crew was really special for me. We stayed in the cutest AirBnB in the Oakleigh District which happens to be walking distance to some of our favorite Mobile restaurants. It was such a great way to spend a few days with family. Everyone was in great spirits, and we even got to spend a few days with my grandparents. Needless to say, it was an awesome end to February. 

Tomorrow is Mardi Gras day, and while I won't be in Mobile to celebrate, I'll definitely be celebrating from afar. I picked up some adorable cookies from Ellen Jay that will be just the right thing for tomorrow. I might even wear a strand or two of beads. You never can tell. 

Links & Happenings

Since we were out of town for a few days, we got to come home to some pretty amazing surprises with the renovation. Our house is completely painted, and we officially have drywall! WOO! 

This week, I have several meetings for the house, but I'm most excited to meet with my friend and talented interior designer, Maggie Griffin to start chatting decor. 

One of the things I'm hoping to chat with Maggie about is adding this amazing Schumacher wallpaper to our laundry room. After months of ignoring my requests, he husband gave me the go ahead last night! 

Have you guys visited Hazen recently? This little jewelry company sure is making some big statements. I'm pretty much obsessed with their mother of pearl nugget necklace. 

A few weeks ago, I took a candle making class at Candlefish. For just $45, I walked away with two deliciously scented candles. I'll be talking about the experience more on the blog soon, so stay tuned! 

Have y'all heard about 60 Days In? The reality series allows civilians to go under cover at some of the country's jails. This season, it's in Atlanta's largest jail. I'm not sure how I feel about the show, but I am intrigued. 

I sadly didn't get to watch the Oscars last night, but from what little coverage I did see, I'm pretty much obsessed with Busy Phillips' dress. Who else was looking great?! 

Monday, My Day

Whew! I am FINALLY back to ATL after a few weeks of traveling for work. If you've been following along on Instagram, you know that I have literally been making my way back and forth across the country attending not one but two fabulous conferences. First, I attended ALT Summit in sunny Palm Springs with Annette Joseph. I'll have some details about that trip here soon, but in the meantime, you can read my thoughts about the conference on her blog today. 

Last week, I was in gorgeous Sea Island with my friend and fellow entrepreneur Paige of Empire State Finery. We enjoyed all that Sea Island had to offer and soaked up tons of knowledge, too. I loved meeting all of my fellow southern entrepreneurs and really helping each other weed through what it means to be business owners. Oh - and we totally got to see Gray Malin speak...twice. I can't wait to add one of his playful photographs to my growing art collection. Swoon!

Links & Happenings

If I've said it once, I've said it 1,000 times: I love Valentine's Day. Glad someone out there is sticking up for this sweet holiday! 

Have you seen the whimsies collection by Kate Spade? Basically balloon animal accessories. Too cute.

This article about Ina & Jeffrey Garten's love story made me so happy. It's a quick cute read.

My friend, Lauren, is a Weight Watchers ambassador and an Instagrammer. She hosted a darling brunch for us yesterday and made some of the most delicious good-for-you foods. Follow her for healthy eats!

I've had this striped top on heavy rotation, and it has me ready for spring (and it's on sale!)!

Next week, we're headed to Mobile for Mardi Gras. I'm wearing an emerald green embellished dress that I'm pretty in love with, but I mostly can't wait to see Hunter in tails. 

On a personal note, y'all say a little prayer for my grandmother. She's in the hospital right now with some heart surgery complications, and while she's one tough cookie, she could use a shout-out to the boss man. 

Monday, My Day

Tomorrow kicks off an incredible month of travel for me. I'll be up bright and early to head to Alt Summit for the second year in a row, and I cannot wait. The event is in Palm Springs, and I am pumped to be immersed in chic and colorful mid-century mod architecture and decor for a few days. Be sure to follow along on Instagram because I am sure you'll be in for a treat. In the meantime, I'm sharing some of my favorite links and happenings from around the web. A fun kick-start to the week if I do say so myself! 

Links & Happenings

Is anyone else always on the hunt for healthy lunch ideas? Goop's article on favorite lunch ideas by Chef Dads had my head spinning. How lucky are these kiddos?!

This list of 15 places telling tourists to stay home was fascinating. From Santorini to Venice, tons of popular destinations are facing issues with their economies and ecosystems due to tourism. Needless to say, it is an interesting read. 

As I choose finishes for our house, I keep referring back to this post about mixing finishes. I ALWAYS have it open on my phone for easy access. I keep telling people our house is like a Rolex - if Rolex can mix silver and gold, so can we. ;) 

Mardi Gras season is underway! We're headed to Mobile later this month where my second cousin will be KING of his crew...such a fun moment for the fam! Need to get your own Mardi Gras fix? Here's SL's favorite mail-order King Cakes. 

In preparation for tomorrow's trip, I'm headed to Cherry Blow Dry Bar this afternoon for a blowout. Getting a blowout is my absolute favorite form of pampering! What's yours? 

Last week, I started freelancing with Parachute by MapQuest. My first article is up, and I am super proud of it. I get to be a little sassy with these which is fun. Take a peek to satisfy your French sweet tooth! 

Monday, My Day

I don't know about you guys, but I was GLUED to social media all weekend. Despite your stances (or football teams), I think we can all say that we witnessed several historic moments. I typically stay out of the political scene on the blog and IG as well. If you're curious about my opinions, you can find me freely giving them on Twitter. For some reason, Twitter has always felt like a "safe" place for me to get a little more down and dirty with opinions. Maybe it's because we're all on an even playing field there - there's little room (or patience) for long-winded rants. I will say two things: One, I am proud of the thousands of people (both genders) who came together to express their beliefs. Two, it is my fervent hope that respect plays a key role in everyone's agenda. Let's make it a point not answer disrespect with disrespect. 

And now...onto more flippant things...

Links & Happenings

How about them Falcons?!?! The Falcons haven't been to "the big game" since I was THIRTEEN!! This is a huge deal for everyone in Atlanta (aka. district 5). 

Ever since the ice storm a few weeks ago, we've been hooked on Bloodline. Have you seen it?! So. Good.

While I don't agree with every sign I saw from this weekend's protests, a lot of them were incredibly clever. This is a good round-up of some of the best ones.

I picked up a copy of Jesus Calling last week. One of my oldest friends has been going through a tough time, and I know that the only thing she would request that I do to help is pray. This book has come highly recommended for years, and I'm glad to incorporate a one-pager into my routine. 

If this picture is any indication, I'm still having daydreams about my trip to Rosemary Beach a few weeks ago. 

I finally got my act together and made a spreadsheet of some of our favorite healthy meals. You can find alllllll of my healthy food recipes on Pinterest. 

I can't even talk about these pom pom flats. NEED.

Monday, My Day: Happy 2017

Happy 2017, y'all! I hope your last few weeks have been filled with love, laughter, friends, family, and a few cocktails. I've had a relaxing time away from the blog, but I'm excited to get started and see what's in store for 2017. I know the new year brings my BFF's first child, another BFF's wedding, an improved home for yours truly, and I am sure a ton of other exciting things for everyone. In the meantime, let's kick off the year with my first installment of Monday, My Day! 

Like many of you, I'm on that healthier habits train. This archived post has some of my favorite easy and healthy recipes for any meal. 

Not only am I all about eating healthier, but I'm also making an effort to make my environment as happy as possible. That means lighting my favorite candle from Candlefish every morning, taking a stroll with my dog around the block, and making my bed every day no matter what.

Sometimes, that also means binge-watching tv...like The Crown. Have you guys watched yet? We've got one episode left, and I'm already looking forward to season 2! 

Speaking of tv, Girls comes back next month...the same weekend as Valentine's Day. Coincidence? I think not.

I finally got a pair of Tieks for Christmas, and I've been wearing them non-stop. I'm still working on breaking them in, but something tells me that these are going to be my new go-to shoes! 

Monday, My Day

Monday, we meet again! After a weekend complete with several hearty meals (and time well-spent with friends I might add), I'm spending this week trying to get on some sort of healthy track as we head into the holiday season. Is anyone else trying to make an effort before it all goes out the window for Thanksgiving? I usually attempt to get everything in order, so I can indulge a little through the holiday season, but this year, it's not going as well as planned, so this is the week I take life by the horns! Since there are just two weeks until Turkey Day, I think that's a good little goal to give myself. 

Besides making an effort to be healthier, this week is one step closer to starting our renovation. Last week, I sat down and made decisions for all of our plumbing fixtures, and this week, I'll be choosing our lighting. Besides that, we're still working out exterior paint colors and deciding brick for our fireplace. It's definitely exciting, but it's also definitely overwhelming! I'm hoping to share an update soon! 

In the meantime, here are my favorite links and happenings for this week:

I went to two fabulous fall group lunches this weekend. One with some of my favorite blogger gals hosted by Luisa, and one with my BFFs - our friendsgiving. I contributed this salad and these potatoes, respectively. Both were a hit! 

I've been working on little holiday photoshoots for a client, so my house has basically thrown up Christmas. If you're in the market for holiday decor, Michael's can hook you up! I scored a pre-lit Christmas tree for $20.

Is anyone else absolutely pumped up for Beauty and the Beast?! Those costumes and sets though...

There are tons of new restaurants coming to Atlanta in the coming months. I tried out Taco Cowboy in Virginia Highland and LOVED it. You can never have too much Mexican. 

One of the cool things about blogging is meeting over bloggers...and discovering you live in the same neighborhood as each other. Tierney and Ashley both live just down the street from me. Meg used to live in the neighborhood, too, and since she's just around the corner, she basically still does. Fun, right?!

I'm trying really hard not to buy all the things this fall, but I'm kinda loving this dress and this poncho. I think I might need both, right? Right? Right. 

Annnd even though I'm trying not to jump ahead to holiday gifts and what not, this mug is pretty freaking awesome. 

Monday, My Day

Happy Monday, everyone! How was your weekend? We were in Auburn with some of our friends enjoying birthday parties, tailgates, and a big Auburn win. While the weekend was super fun, I'm not going to lie, I'm pretty pumped about this week. October is my favorite month (have I mentioned that once or twice?), and this week is full of wrapping-up work for the month, getting started on next month's client content, and celebrating everything from Halloween to my birthday. Woo! 

Here are a few of my favorite links and happenings:

Birthday months mean tons of birthday coupons. One of my favorites to use every year is my Kendra Scott 50% off. What should I get this year? I think I'm deciding between a statement and a classic. 

Speaking of birthday coupons, I also love love love getting an extra percentage off at Anthro. Has anyone tried these?

I'm over on Annette Joseph's blog today sharing a spooky and downright beautiful Halloween floral arrangement. You'll never guess where my vase is from...

Hunter and I are heading to the Atlanta symphony this weekend to see Nightmare Before Christmas. Our symphony shows the movie and plays the score live. Such a neat introductory way to experience the symphony. 

Speaking of Halloween fun, I've gotten back into my favorite seasonal podcast, Lore, over the past few weeks. Have you tried it? 

What's your favorite magazine subscription? I'm LOVING my Cooking Light (thanks, Linds!) recently and the double holiday issue is on point, y'all. Totally worth picking one up at the grocery store. 

Monday, My Day

Greetings, y'all! Happy Monday. Today's post is kinda cheating. If you're reading this ON Monday, chances are that I'm over in Alabama visiting Pursell Farms and trying my hand at clay shooting. I'll be giving the full report soon, don't you worry. In the meantime, let's get to some links, shall we?

Favorite Links and Happenings

We can't live without Tervis tumblers in our house, and thankfully a brand new Tervis store just opened in Atlanta at Atlantic Station. If you're in the area, check it out! 

I snagged my first pair of Loeffler Randalls last week. I have to admit, I kind of love them, and after years of searching for a stylish black flat, I think I finally found one. 

I made this last week as one final nod to summer, and y'all...why didn't I think of it?! It's kinda healthy, right? Right? 

Did you catch me and my friend & Atlanta stylist Mireille on StyleBlueprint? We're chatting tips and tricks for big tatas. 

We're headed to one of our final Auburn games of the season this weekend. I'm wearing this sweater and will be rocking an Empire State Finery necklace with it (fun fact: one of ESF's founders is one of my friends and neighbors)! 

Monday, My Day

Good morning, everyone and happy October! It's been a minute since I posted a Monday, My Day, so I decided it was about time for me to bring it back. How was your weekend? I spent mine knee-deep in remodel research while relaxing on my sofa. Of course there was a little football involved (how about that UGA vs UT game?!), and I had to take some time to flip through the latest Southern Living. It was, in a nutshell, a great weekend. Here's to the week ahead! 

Favorite Links and Happenings 

I've always loved a great horoscope, so the latest news about the zodiac has been a little perturbed. Scorpio4eva. 

Fall brings back hefty glasses of deep red cabernet. Anyone else switch their wine ways when the seasons change? 

I don't know about y'all, but even as an adult, I look forward to the 13 Nights of Halloween on Freeform (formerly ABC family). Here's this year's schedule.

Would you dare spend the night in one of Williamsburg's haunted historic homes? I adore Williamsburg, but I'm much too scared to ever test my luck on Halloween night. 

This simple meal has been on regular rotation in our house. Delicious and easy! 

Yesterday was the last game ever at Turner Field in Atlanta. These photos brought tears to my eyes. 

I'm so excited to be helping with social media for a great Atlanta event, Spotlight on Art. This year's Neiman Marcus pop-up gallery is going on now and has a TON of fantastic pieces of art for sale. If you're in the area, don't miss it! 

Monday, My Day

Good morning! First of all, I have to say Happy First Day of School to all of my teacher friends headed back to the grind today. Here's to new beginnings, new students, and a new school year! It's still weird for me not to be going back to school (but in the best way possible). We spent a relaxing weekend at home doing house research and watching a lot of the Olympic coverage. Are you guys watching? I couldn't take my eyes off of gymnastics last night; it's my favorite event, hands down. This is our last weekend together at home for a while due to a lot of traveling and other obligations, so it was nice to be low key. I'm excited for the week ahead working on some fun collaborations, getting a ton of work done, and hitting the road for the weekend. Let's make it a good one!

Favorite Links and Happenings

Last week, I discovered The Players Tribune. Founded by Derek Jeter, it's basically an online blog for professional athletes to write about their lives, games, opinions, etc. So fascinating! And they're great writers! I really enjoyed reading about Matt Kemp's recent trade to Atlanta written from his perspective. 

I would be remiss not to talk about Instagram stories. What do you guys think?! Christen at Letterhappy made a great pro-con list about both Snapchat and Instagram. Go take a peek. 

A tweet from Morolake Akinosun pretty much confirms if you put something into the universe, it's bound to happen.  

I've decided I really need to get a primer. What's your favorite one? I think I'm going to try this one for a little extra glow. 

Y'all know I love me a good podcast, and I've heard great things about Snap Judgement. Have you listened?

The lovely drink in the photo above is a Sungold Zinger. Mmmmm.

Monday, My Day

Good morning! I am refreshed from a casual weekend in Atlanta where we didn't stray too far from our hood. Dinner at Treehouse and a neighborhood gathering with OITNB is my sort of weekend. We also did a little bit of house research (i.e. turned on all of the faucets at Pirch). All in all, a good one! How was your weekend? I'd love to hear about it. In the meantime, let's hop to it:

Favorite Links and Happenings 

So excited that my brother and sister in law's wedding was featured on Style Me Pretty last week! Talk about a dream. Find all of their lovely wedding details & sappy love story here.

Last week, I met some of my best friends for taco Tuesday at Bar Taco where we each tried the secret taco. Did y'all know Bar Taco introduces a new secret taco each month? This month's taco is seasonal and yummy...but you'll have to go to Bar Taco to try it.  :)

One of my favorite books that my book club ever read was The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks. I was thrilled to learn that it's being made into a movie by Oprah's production company. The nonfiction book is all about HeLa cells used for medical research. Seriously fascinating! 

And along those same lines, please tell me you've seen the Gilmore Girls trailer?! 

Can't decide if I'm excited or appalled by these. Thoughts?

Last night I whipped up Annette Joseph's fig tart. So good and so easy. 

Don't forget about my Coton Colors Agenda Giveaway - anyone can enter and SHOULD! 

Monday, My Day

Whoops - the weekend got away from me a little bit, then work got in the way, and now today's Monday, My Day is a bit delayed. But I figured late is better than never, right? Here are a few links to get you through the afternoon slump. 

Links & Happenings

Last night, I hosted a Beautycounter party. Curious about Beautycounter? Take a peek at their site here. I'm picking up their mascara, this lipstick in Twig, and one of their charcoal products, too! 

The Waiting on Martha Warehouse sale is coming up this weekend. I'm hoping to get over there on Friday to scoop up anything I can get my hands on before the crowds. Up to 80% off? Yes, please. 

Hunter and I have been watching Roadies, and we finally got to a place where we feel like the show is getting really good. Have you watched?

I tried my hand at sweet potato toast last week. Thinly sliced sweet potatoes with peanut butter and cinnamon? Yum. 

When we were in Auburn this weekend, I picked up a bag of Mama's Secrets Cookies...and OMG. Addicting!! 

Tupelo Honey just started their bottomless mac-and-cheese bar. Yes, you read that right. Full report on the blog coming soon! 

My girl Maggie Griffin Designs has been posting some pretty incredible client photos recently. I can't even talk about this bed, y'all. Lacefield and pineapples, oh my! 

Monday, My Day

After a relaxing weekend at home, I'm looking forward to the week ahead. Besides work and the usual events, I'm excited to celebrate my sister's birthday along with both of my sister-in-laws birthdays - all this week! Then, we're headed over to Auburn this weekend for a golf tournament...and you guessed it, more celebrating! 

Even though we're in the thick of summer, I can already tell that fall is starting to be on the brain of a lot of us. Between the Nordstrom anniversary sale, school supplies showing up at Target, and football season being just around the corner, it's only a matter of time before autumn creeps in (and y'all know I can't wait for that!). In the meantime, let's enjoy each day and try to appreciate summer's glory. After all, we'll miss it soon! 

Favorite Links & Happenings 

We went and saw the new Ghostbusters movie, and it was legitimately funny and GOOD! I was pleasantly surprised, and I highly recommend it. Two thumbs up. 

I watched a lot of HGTV & DIY this weekend, and especially enjoyed Nashville Flipped. What a cute show! 

My sweet friend, Allie, is currently making her way through the Carolinas as she hunts antique furniture, and I can't wait to see what she finds! Follow along with her on Snapchat (@peachfullychic). 

While flipping through Cooking Light, I came across Wine Glass Writers. What an awesome idea and a fantastic hostess gift. I mean, really really genius. 

Did y'all see this Harry Potter newborn photoshoot? A baby as a mandrake? Adorable. 

One King's Lane is featuring Gray Malin art right now. I wish I had a place to put one of these pieces because they're so vibrant and fun, and with OKL prices, it's basically a steal! 

I was gifted a Coton Colors Happy Everything Cookbook last week, and I cannot wait to dig into some of the recipes - like Baked Bean Dip perfect for this fall's tailgating. 

Monday, My Day

Whew. I need a vacation from vacation, y'all. After an absolutely whirlwind trip down to 30A, we're back. Seriously, this year's family vacation flew by. I have to say it was a great trip, though. We tried some new restaurants, explored some new neighborhoods, and spent all day every day basking on the beach (okay, I basked in the shade, but you know...). This week, it's all about getting back into a routine and really kicking off July. What does your week ahead look like?

Favorite Links & Happenings

If you're making your way down to 30A, I highly recommend checking out Chiringo in Grayton Beach. It's directly across from the infamous Red Bar, has an equally awesome atmosphere, but without the wait. Winning! Order the Blackened Grouper Bowl and a Tsunami cocktail. YUM. 

And while I'm on beach eats, I can't recommend Perfect Pig for breakfast enough! 

As I mentioned, we're in the thick of planning for our renovation. Right now, I am super focused on learning all about bathroom finishes and am crushing hard on this tile. Mark my words: you'll see this somewhere in my house!

I'm sad to report that I didn't read any books on vacation, but I did read a ton of magazines and, I had good intentions with this book! Definitely still planning to read it. 

We had a great time playing Tenzi. It's such an easy game to learn; kids love it, too. 

I can't wait for this week's happy hour with Coton Colors. They just sent me their new 17 month agenda, so stay tuned - planner reviews are coming to the blog soon! 

Have y'all been watching the Olympic Trials? We have, and it's been so much fun to see our future athletes. Here's a full schedule of this year's Olympic Games! 

Enjoy your week!

Monday, My Day: 4th of July Edition

Happy 4th of July, y'all! I hope you're all celebrating today by wearing red, white, and blue, and enjoying a very Americana holiday. We're spending today on the beach (with zillions of other people) and having a ball doing so. Tonight calls for a spread of hamburgers and hotdogs followed by fireworks on the beach. I have high hopes for a great day! 

Favorite Fourth of July Links & Happenings

I'm guest posting on Annette Joseph's blog today and sharing some of my favorite easy July 4th tablescapes.

This Strawberry-Ginger Champagne Punch is festive and sounds delicious. I would garnish it with a few frozen blueberries to keep the drink cold and add a touch of July 4th pizzazz.

I so enjoyed following along Belle and Union's feature of Sew Kit's hand stitched American Flags. I know these are an investment, but I'd love to have one in my home one day. They're simply beautiful. 

Hunter has a bit of a cobbler obsession and when he saw this Blackberry Cobbler recipe on the cover of Southern Living, he immediately asked if I would make it. I might give it a try tonight!

If you need a classic side dish for today's cookouts, look no further than making your own baked beans. This recipe is PERFECT. 

image via Belle & Union

Monday, My Day

Happy Monday, friends! I am actually looking forward to this week. For one, I've got a super busy schedule which for some might be overwhelming, but when I am crazy busy, I am crazy productive. For another, we've got a three day weekend coming up which leads me to another reason I'm excited about the week ahead: the 4th of July! The Fourth is my second favorite holiday (right behind Halloween), and I am looking forward to celebrating the stars and stripes. In the meantime, here are a few links to get you through the week:

Favorite Links & Happenings

404 Proud launched last week, and their cheeky Atlanta t-shirts have me smitten. Pretty sure I'll be picking this one up soon (even if it is for a dude). 

Have you seen the apartment that's INSIDE the Eiffel Tower? Yes, you read that right. Find all the deets on the digs here. 

I'm a sucker for linens, and I especially love the idea of using cloth napkins. Maybe one day we'll make the full transition, and when we do, I'll be purchasing mine from Dot & Army. 

The Today Show had an excellent piece on what they've dubbed the "Gig Economy." As a one-woman show, I actually think I might be a part of this, and I totally think you can make a full-time living (like I do). My only issue is that they refer to it as a "side gig" until finding a "real" job. 

Have you heard that SJP is back?!

I got the Fancy Pants Start Planner in the mail on Friday. If you missed my unboxing on Snapchat (nicolemelv), there will be a blog post soon, so stay tuned! 

We met with an architect last week to start really planning for our home renovation. Even though we have a lot city hoops we have to jump through, we should be starting soon! Follow along on Pinterest to see some of my ideas. Any home decor mags I should definitely pick up?

Monday, My Day

Happy Monday, everyone! I hope you all had a great Father's Day yesterday. After a relaxing weekend at home, I'm looking forward to getting things crossed off of my to-do list this week. I've got a ton to do in order to prepare for vacation, so here's hoping I can take care of it all! What's on your radar this week? 

Favorite Links & Happenings:

I've officially given in to the fact that the 90s are back. I finally picked these up after weeks of research and admiring from afar. Be warned: I sized down TWO sizes (to a 5 from my usual 7).  

Still on a mission to find a great beach bag. This one is affordable, sustainable, and best of all, cute. 

I'm l-o-v-i-n-g everything in sight at Dear Keaton. This Atlanta-based online retailer is about to blow up, y'all. I just know it.

I spent the weekend snacking on Aunt Lollies pimento cheese topped with Mezzetta Banana Peppers. YUM!! 

This dress has been on major rotation in my closet. It's flowy and is the perfect length. 

Hamilton has been playing nonstop on my Spotify. I can't get enough! It's like a podcast or a radio show: you have to listen and pay attention to understand the story, so it was perfect for my trip to Auburn last week. 

We got to go to the VIP soft opening for Tupelo Honey on Saturday night, were treated like royalty, and left stuffed. It was fantastic! Welcome to Atlanta, Tupelo Honey! 

Boho Bus had their first popup shop this weekend, and I scored a cute top and pair of comfy shorts. Find more of their finds here.