Project Life

I Got A GOOD One

2012-02-15T15:15:00.000-06:00

I am not used to a BIG Valentine's Day ... My parents have always given us candy and a little treat.

Well, Patrick and I went a little over board this year. I got him a new i-pod and he got me a piece of art. It is a commission piece, so I don't have it in my rosey-red hands, but I couldn't be more excited!

Lulie Wallace and my bridal bouquet ... It doesn't get much better than that! I am over the moon excited and can't wait to see what she creates!

I can't WAIT! More images to come as this progresses! Thank you, sweet Valentine!

Happy Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T11:38:00.002-06:00

My Valentine is out of town this week, but we celebrated a little last weekend. I hope you have a happy Valentine's Day, celebrating those in your life that you LOVE!

Etsy

Fun Fabric FRIDAY

2012-02-10T14:24:00.001-06:00

I am so happy it's Friday! I wish I could say that I had big weekend plans, but I actually have to work tomorrow. So, I am NOT so excited, but it should be pretty laid back.

We are having a surprise party for my mother-in-law on Sunday ... I am hoping that it is fun. I didn't plan it or have much input in the event, so I am a little leery. It's in a restaurant, a sub shop ... And it's a 60th birthday. I would have done something a little fancier. But, oh well ... I wasn't asked.

On to my favorite fabric ... Imperial Trellis! I have dreams about this pattern ... Not only does it come in fabric, but also wallpaper!

Don't you love it? It is so fun ... But, not too out there. I love the settee that upholstered, but in all seriousness I would be happy with a few yards {in any colorway}.

Happy Friday and happy weekend ... Hope it is full of fun!

** All images are from Pinterest **

My Favorites

2012-02-09T13:50:00.000-06:00

I didn't "pin" a lot of things this week, but I did try a recipe that I pinned. Chicken Enchiladas ... Oh my word, these were good.

I can't wait to make them again. I will probably add onion and a little more spice to the chicken, but the sauce on top had a great flavor {how could it not with sour cream}.

Try it soon ... So, good!

Projects

2012-02-06T14:33:00.002-06:00

Patrick and I had hit a slump as far as projects go, until this weekend. I don't think that we've done anything since before Christmas.

We have a lot around the house that we HAVE to finish and soon. We still need to put down quarterround. Our exterior is currently two toned. We have had drywall work that has needed to be finished since August. It is embarrassing really, but as they say, life gets in the way.

This weekend we really hit the projects hard. I cleaned closets and decluttered big time. We probably took 100 pieces of clothes to Goodwill. My favorite find, for the weekend, was SPACE BAGS! I love this fun little invention.

While I was cleaning, Patrick was repairing/painting drywall in our hall way. It is so nice, not to see drywall mud. The wall isn't perfect, but it is painted and that's a start for me!

I have been holding onto these DYI's {I found on Pinterest} and I may have to talk Patrick into these nightstands ... I love them!

We need nightstands for our bedroom in the worst way and in one of our guest rooms ... I think that these would work in either place and that is so exciting to me. The nightstands are IKEA, that people have "hacked" ...


A Charming Nest

Take the Side Street

I hope you all have a wonderful, Super Bowl weekend! P.S. How cute was Eli's daughter?

Fun Fabric Friday

2012-02-03T15:53:00.000-06:00

I saw this fabric on Pinterest earlier this week and I have been drooling over it ever since. {I mean, like seriously looking at it every day!} It's a sickness I have.

Do you love this Galbraith and Paul print? It is one of my favorites. I would love to have several yards of this beautiful fabric!

Enjoy your weekend! I am so thankful for Friday!

My Favorites

2012-02-02T16:21:00.000-06:00

All of this warm weather is really making me want SPRING. I can't believe that silly ground-hound, thinks 6 more weeks of winter. But, I guess if it is a winter like this, we will all be very lucky.

My favorite pins this week all share a commonality ... PINK! I love pink and it reminds me so much of springtime. I am not necessarily ready for 100 degree summers, but I am really getting used to this beautiful sunshine and warm-ish winter weather!

How fun is this cake? I don't know that I would ever attempt to make it, but it is so fun and I would definitely eat it!

How gorgueous are these flowers? Patrick, if you are reading this, these would make a fabulous Valentine's Day bouquet! Or really a fabulous bouquet for anything!

I love so much about this image. The pillows. The couch. The gallery wall.

Ok, so the sconce isn't really spring-y, but isn't it so beautiful!?

Other than pretty pins, February is going to be, potentially, a big month for us. Two family birthdays. A little pups {named Tatum} birthday. Patrick has a job interview. And we are, hopefully, finishing up some home repairs/projects.

Happy Thursday, sweet friends!

My Favorites

2012-01-26T11:16:00.000-06:00

Do you have a favorite beauty product?

I have a few:

Bare Minerals

Benefit - Mascara

MAC - Underage Lipglass

A little known secret about me ... I don't really wash my face as much as I should. I wish I was better about it, but I just don't take the time, especially in the evenings. I usually shower in the morning and wash my face then. I have a special fondness for night creams, but my very favorite concoction is this:

I use a thing of Vaseline, a small to medium sized container of PINK Johnson and Johnson baby lotion, and a small thing of Vitamin E ... I put everything in a bowl and then mix {with my hand mixer}. I store the mixture in a Rubbermaid container. I LOVE IT. My skin feels so soft in the mornings.

Try it!

What are your favorites?

Funny Pin

2012-01-24T12:48:00.000-06:00

I don't have anything real important to blog about, but my sister posted this picture on Pinterest and it is too cute not to share!

It is so sweet ... Do you think that animals really like to cuddle?

I wish that we could give Tatum an animal and he would love it like this. We have given him one stuffed animal, Ellie, the elephant ... Within a week Ellie was demolished. Last week, we bought him a plastic chicken. Currently, it's claws and feathers are all snapped off.

Lovely.

Maybe it's our dog that's evil!

Beautiful Bedroom

2012-01-23T13:17:00.000-06:00

Do you ever just think about a space? How it would look in your home? How you could recreate it? I have a few rooms, filed a way, that I feel this way about. I love every detail of this bedroom and would love to have a space in my home look like this!

The bedroom was featured in Southern Living several years ago and when I was able to pin it on Pinterest, I was in love. I love the bed skirt, the lumbar pillow, the art ... EVERYTHING! I love it all.

That wonderful pillow, is made from a RUG. Actually, this rug, from Anthropologie. We own this rug, in a different color, that is in our bathroom. I love the rug and have thought about ordering it in multiples, in case anything ever happens to it. I love it so much! I need to learn how to sew, to create this pillow, in a different color, though!

Do you love this room as much as I do? Some day ...

** Images from Southern Living and Pinterest **

Fun Fabric Friday

2012-01-20T10:17:00.001-06:00

I love good fabric. I had my first sewing class last week. I would love to learn how to sew a good pillow or a pinch pleated drapery. I know it will take time, but I want to be good, and be good, fast! I love learning how to use my machine, now I just need to find some time to practice!

Patrick really wants me to sew and he has decided my first item, I make, should be a BOW TIE. I've looked up patterns and bow ties may be a little more complex than I am up for tackling, but I may decide to give it a whirl this weekend!

This particular fabric, I will not be experimenting with until I am a pro. It is a little too expensive to just play with. But, I love this fabric and think these images are so beautiful!


Quadrille Multi Turquoise Orange Olive


Image from Cottage Living

Image from Quadrille's Website

Isn't that headboard fabulous? I love this fabric and think it could really make a statement in a room.

Happy Friday!

My Favorites

2012-01-19T13:16:00.000-06:00

Last week I was a ball of stress ... This week hasn't given me much time to think about stress, let alone feel stressed! This week has flown by and I can't believe it is almost over.

I don't feel like I have had a lot to blog about. No real projects. I have a list of projects a mile long and I desperately need to get started on some, but I have been focusing more on saving {in order to pay off some debt, NEW YEARS RESOLUTION} and try to lead a healthy lifestyle {i.e. another NEW YEARS RESOLUTION}.

I did want to share some of my favorite Pinterest finds, from this week. I don't know about you, but I L.O.V.E. pinterest!


Jade Necklace


I love this DYI project

Hummingbird Wallpaper

How great would this wallpaper look, lining the back of the above DYI, book shelves? I wish I had the space to do something like this!

I love this living room ... I think that I am on a turquoise kick! Hope your week is treating you well!

** All images from Pinterest **

Do-Over ...

2012-01-12T11:32:00.005-06:00

Do you ever had weeks where you just want to start over? Or hurry up and get through it?

That's definitely me this week. I feel like I just can't win. I wrote a whole post about why, but then it seemed to raw. Too much to share. At least at this point.

Patrick has a huge exam on Monday ... One that will for lack of more low key terms, will determine his future with his company. I am so anxious about it. I know he is studying his hardest and he is so nervous, too. But, I am a ball of nerves.

I have been leaving Patrick motivation messages on the mirror in the morning and this is one I find such comfort in:

Please keep Patrick in your thoughts and your prayers this week as he continues to study and prepare for his exam.

Fun Art

2012-01-10T11:26:00.001-06:00

I have been loving Lulie Wallace's art work ... I stalk her art blog. I stalk her Pinterest. I love all of her work.

I told Patrick if he ever has bad news to tell, he should tell me with a piece of her art. It would make any bad news, good.

She does commission pieces and mentioned doing wedding flowers. I would love to give her images of our wedding flowers, because they were AMAZING and her have do two small'ish pieces of us to hang in our bedroom. I love the bold colors and fun backgrounds!

Speaking of small pieces, I found these she did for a show and I love the collection:

Go now and check out her work! I am in LOVE!

** All images from artist's website **

Fun Fabric Friday

2012-01-06T12:55:00.001-06:00

I love fabric. Especially really really good fabric.

I thought in attempts to become a better blogger, I would pick a fabric every Friday and blog about it.

I came across this fabric on Pinterest and was drawn to it, because yesterday a friend and I were talking about how she is loving woodland creations ... I immediately thought of her when I saw this fabric this morning!

You can find the fabric on Spoonflower. Isn't it so cute?

Happy Friday!

My Resolutions

2012-01-03T15:24:00.000-06:00

I hate posting resolutions, but I do love looking back and seeing what I have {or haven't accomplished}. And my blog after all, is my virtual diary.

So, my resolutions are more goals, but I feel more comfortable using the term "goal".

Pay Off Debt - We have a very small amount of credit card debit {aka Crate and Barrel}, as well as a small personal loan {aka wedding} that I would like to have paid off in the next three months. I think it is very attainable.
Lose 40 lbs. - I am kicking it in to high gear. Healthy lifestyle. Exercise. I've lost weight half a dozen times in the past and been successful ... I know what to do, I just have to do it!
Run/Walk 5 - 5k's
Start a Christmas Account - The goal would be to save $30 a paycheck for the rest of the year. It would help out a lot come December!
Save $8000
Buy a New {to us} Car

I think that's a good start. I also have a few personal items that I would like to work on ... Patience, spirituality, and trusting more in God {and letting go of my crazy tendencies}.

I started yesterday and pray that this time next year, I am reading this post, thinking, "Hell YEA ... I did it! I accomplished my goals."

Happy 2012

2012-01-02T09:33:00.001-06:00

I can't believe that 2011 is already over ... It is somewhat bitter sweet for me. I think 2011 was one of my very best years, to date {if not my best}. I am apprehensively, stepping into 2012. I pray that it will be a year of love, good health, and exciting change.

But, what I mostly pray, is that I learn make myself a priority.

I believe that I can. I will be back later this week with my resolutions, but until then, HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2011-12-20T16:28:00.000-06:00

I've been a really bad blogger this year and I do not have an explanation for my absence AT ALL. But, I can assure you, 2012, is going to be an amazing blogging year for me!

While I have not been busy blogging, I have been busy checking things off my list. I have finished with all of shopping, with the exception of one thing. All of our gifts are wrapped and decorated with bows and gift tags {which is a feat for me}. I FINALLY mailed our cards today. I mailed our packages yesterday. The only thing that I still have left to do are my goodies for co-workers and neighbors. I feel great about everything that has been accomplished.

I've bought, what I think, are some really great gifts this year. I can't wait to give them!

It's The Weekend!

2011-12-16T14:04:00.000-06:00

I am so ready for the weekend. I have gotten a lot of Christmas accomplished, but still need to box, wrap, mail ... And, address Christmas Cards.

I am hoping that I am able to knock everything out this weekend!

We are going to Opryland with some friends tonight and I am so excited to see the lights! Patrick and I have done this every year, that we've dated and I think it really makes the holidays special. If you live in the area and haven't been recently, I can not urge you enough to go!

Tomorrow we have a busy day. We are finally getting eye exams and hopefully, ordering new glasses. I can't wait! I am also trying to finish buying a few small gifts and start wrapping my presents.

I doubt my presents will look this fancy or beautiful, but I really love the natural look of these gifts. And the glittery things! I love glitter!

Other than my normal weekend errands, I need to start making my treats for friends, co-workers and our neighbors. I am making brownies in a jar!

Enjoy your weekend!

Check, Check and Check

2011-12-13T11:48:00.000-06:00

I am loving checks. Especially, buffalo check. I NEED to find a way to incorporate it into our home. Here are some images from Pinterest, that currently serve as my inspiration.

Don't you love it? I feel like it really pops with a more neutral palette. I am not in a position to spend any more money on our house right now, or start another project, so I will just have to day dream for a while.

We Have A Winner ...

2011-12-09T11:26:00.000-06:00

Benjamin Moore's Sparrow is the winner! The house is currently painted Clarksville Gray:

It is a pretty big difference and I think that I will love the deeper color. I really want to paint this weekend, but we probably won't do anything until January or February. We have other things on the home front that we could do first!

We are going to Birmingham to do a little shopping tomorrow. I am really looking forward to it and although most my gifts are purchased, I still need a few little things. Plus, my family owns a really bad ass toy store in downtown, Homewood ...


Image from Here {with an article about the store and my cousin}

Other than buying a few toys, I am hoping to add to my Christmas decor, At Home is one of my favorite shops and they always have amazing Christmas decorations {everything in the store is incredible}. I am looking forward to a fun weekend!

Enjoy your weekend!

Decisions, Decisions

2011-12-07T15:02:00.000-06:00

Last summer when Patrick and I replaced the wood siding with hardiboard, I debated over selecting a paint color. I finally chose Benjamin Moore's Clarksville Gray ... I loved that it was a little gray, a little tan, a lot neutral.

From the beginning, I doubted my color selection. Don't get me wrong, I love the color ... It's almost just a little too plain. Then a few weeks ago, Patrick and I were playing with Tatum across the street and I looked at the house ... It blends in with EVERY.SINGLE. house on the street.

I hate that. Seriously.

Now, I am really wanting to paint the house. I know this is the wrong time of year, but I at least need to pick another color. Tomorrow, I am only working a half day and I am determined to find a new color. Here are the color samples what I am starting with:

Weimaraner

Chelsea Gray

Escarpment

Sparrow

All colors are Benjamin Moore ... What do you think? I will take pictures of the samples on the house and post those sometime in the near future!

Cuddle Up ...

2011-12-06T10:10:00.000-06:00

It is rainy and the temperatures keep dropping here in Nashville. I have had a cough that won't give up and I would love to be at home cuddling in my bed.

I am loving camp blankets lately. I want one so bad, but they are so expensive. Maybe, if I have any Christmas money, I will buy myself one.

I love these tufted headboard and the both the blankets. Wouldn't this make such a cute room?

Don't you just want to go home and cuddle? Enjoy this rainy day!

Oh and my apologizes for being a bad blogger, I just didn't have much to write about!

** All images from Pinterest **

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-23T13:46:00.000-06:00


Pinterest

I am so thankful for all the wonderful people in my life that I hold on to! My husband, my family, my friend, and my co-workers.

I am also so thankful for a wonderful Thanksgiving and our trip to Point Clear! I hope you enjoy your holiday and hold those people you are thankful for extra tight!

LOVING!

2011-11-21T14:27:00.000-06:00

There are a lot of things that I am LOVING this week!

First and foremost, it is a short work week! I love short weeks and especially when it is only three days. I am also loving that it is Thanksgiving week. We are going to Patrick's mom's house for Thanksgiving breakfast and my parents house for Thanksgiving Dinner. I love this kind of meal ... I can't wait to wear my best stretchy pants! My mom makes turkey and stuffing ... My sister, Betsy, makes a few sides ... My sister, Abby, decorates the table. And this year, I am making these recipes:

The Pioneer Woman

The Pioneer Woman's Fluffy New Potatoes - This recipe is so good! I make it for friends who had babies. I make them for dinner parties. It is definitely one of my go to recipes!

Cauliflower Gratin - I made this last week and it was G.U.D.! I can't wait to do it again ... Cauliflower is not a normal side dish for my family, but I think that they will like this.

I am also loving that in four days, Patrick and I will be in Point Clear, Alabama! I am really looking forward to celebrating six months of marriage and really looking forward to being in such a beautiful place!

And last, I am loving all the things in my life that I am thankful for! But, I am really loving that a dear friend of mine, just got engaged! She is such a wonderful friend and deserves all the happiness in the world ...

I love this time of year! There is so much happiness and joy!

On that cheesy note, I am signing off! Happy Monday!

Thursday's Home Tour

2011-11-17T15:44:00.000-06:00

I love this little house. The windows. The trim. I love this age home and this style home.

It is definitely a neighborhood that I would want to live in, should we be buying a home right now. While it is more square feet than my current home, 1585, it looks a little on the small side.

Is the outside not the cutest thing? I love the color and the white trim and the little porch.

I love the ceilings in the dining area. And I really like how the house is decorated. It isn't really my style, but it looks really good in this home.

The kitchen is a little traditional for me, but I like that it has been updated.

Isn't it such a charming home!?

As always, if you have questions about this home or any others in Middle Tennessee, please feel free to contact me!

Pictures are from RealTracs

Yum Yum

2011-11-15T10:33:00.000-06:00

Last night I made a recipe from Pinterest ... Let me tell you, it was GOOD. Really good. I thought about it all day and when I came home, it smelled so wonderful.

I cut my carrots up and used fingerling potatoes. I also used a cup and a half of water ... It was really juicy. Next time I may only use one cup. But, none-the-less, it was an incredible dinner!

Playing Pretend

2011-11-14T15:28:00.000-06:00

So, I play pretend. I love to imagine things. Get ideas. Sometimes, I may take it a LITTLE too far.

Here's the situation that led me to my world of make believe: Patrick has been training to be a nursing home administrator for the past nine months ... He is taking his state exam tomorrow {insert a BIG prayer}. Once he becomes licensed a few things could happen: {1} He could get his own facility within the Nashville area {2} He could get his own facility outside of a commutable distance {3} He could stay in the facility where he is currently.

So, most of conversations go towards, "What happens if we have to move?" While, I hope that we get to stay in Nashville, in our home, my prayer is that we open whatever changes come our way, we welcome them with open hearts and open minds.

This weekend we get on the subject of moving. Patrick mentions a facility in the mountains, about an hour and a half outside of Nashville, in a vacation type of community. So, me being the Real Estate agent that I am, get on RealTracs and start looking at every property on the mountain. I should also note, that it would be highly unlikely to sale our current home for a profit and be able to purchase anything else.

Enter my pretend world ... House #1:

Three bedrooms, two and half baths, a bonus room, 2 car garage and 1800+ square feet. There are no interior pictures, but the seller attached a list of upgrades and she has done some nice things. The exterior is a little plain, but could totally be spiced up. Under $180,000.

House #2:

Three bedrooms, two and half baths, detached garage, and 2100+ square feet. The pitch of the roof is a little higher than what I normally like, but the inside pictures are beautiful and there is a HUGE Florida room.

Now I have been thinking about furniture. Decorating. New kitchens. Landscaping. And damn it, Pinterest only adds to my crazy because I see something and think that would be nice in my mountain home. My mountain home? I am a wacko!

Please tell me I am not the only one ...

Blah ...

2011-11-10T16:09:00.000-06:00

Today is one of those days that I want to curl up in a ball and sleep through it. I feel like I am stuck in a rut.

I like a lot of qualities about my job, but I don't really have a very positive attitude about my job. I am unhappy with my weight {though I am trying to make changes; Weight Watchers}. Patrick and I are really stuck in a rut ... Maybe I should say a routine ... Routines are good, but I want to spice it up a little. I feel like I am in a really different place in life than a lot of girlfriends ... Married ... No children ... Not planning for babies. Most of the friends I have are single or married with two children. Then there's us. Then financially, I feel like we make progress and then some how, every time I look at our savings, it seems to stay the same, or something big happens that costs a fortune.

I realize that these are all really silly, insignificant things and that ultimately I am so very fortunate. I just needed to vent a little. I know that we all get down on ourselves and sometimes it is nice to have a small, short, pity party.

Thanks for stopping by!

Recipe

2011-11-08T12:51:00.000-06:00

Sorry I haven't posted this week ... Over the weekend I got food poisoning and I have been pretty miserable. Today, I am beginning to feel more normal.

I put this together in the crock pot over the weekend and never felt like eating it. I finally made it last night. I only had a few bites, but it was really good. I found the recipe on Pinterest, but it doesn't have a name. I think something like "Spicy Chicken".

Here are the ingredients:

1 can of rotel

1 can of corn

1can of black beans (drained & rinsed)

2 frozen chicken breasts

8 oz cream cheese

1 packet dry ranch dressing

1 tablespoon cumin

1 teaspoon onion powder {I actually used about 1/2 cup of chopped onion, instead}

1 teaspoon chili powder

Put all ingredients in crock pot and cook 6-8 hours

Shred chicken, before serving

Thursday's Home Tour

2011-11-03T13:42:00.001-05:00

I have a fantasy about living in the country, well not really the country, but you know ... Some land. Maybe 2-5 acres. Within 5 minutes of a grocery store. This land would need a house on it.

My other fantasy is that we would build a home. I know how anal and crazy I can be and I think it will be difficult to find a builder to work with, but this is after all, pretend.

I love looking at Southern Living house plans, today's "Home Tour" is one of my favorites.

I love the main floor, floor plan. The master with a sitting area. The separate computer room. I love the kitchen. I should be honest, I love a LOT about the house, that's why it is my fantasy to-be-built home.

I like the second floor {and the bedrooms being normal sizes, not 9x10}, but the house is missing a Rec/Bonus Room. Not a big deal, I would just have it above the Master Bedroom.

Thanks for playing pretend with me!

Favorites

2011-11-01T14:26:00.000-05:00

It appears that I have a LOT of favorite things right now! Recently, every time I write a blog, I want to write about something I've found or something I love!

Patrick and I went to The Avett Brothers concert on Friday night ... It was a great show! I loved every minute of it. I've always really liked their music, but never realized what performers that they were. It was such a fun show!

I am also really loving this piece of work by Amanda Talley, which surprises me. I usually like very conservative, glossy work {my mom, the artist, would say boring artwork}!

And last but not least, I booked our six month-i-versary trip to The Grand Resort in Point Clear, Alabama. I am SO excited! We've been to the hotel and grounds before, for a wedding, but I am so excited to actually STAY there. We are going Thanksgiving weekend and I just hope the weather is good for us!

Google Images

I hope your week is full of favorites, too!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T13:00:00.000-05:00

And, Happy Monday! I hope your Halloween is off to a great start.

We are eating Crab and Corn Chowder {I added crab meat}

And handing out, but probably eating a lot of Reese's!

Have a fun day!

Spooky Weekend

2011-10-28T14:22:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday! Happy Halloween weekend!

I came across this image on Pinterest and LOVED it.

Isn't that such a cute idea? I didn't do too much decorating for this Halloween. {I haven't even bought candy, yet} ... Last year, we only had like 6 tricker-treaters, so I am not expecting a big crowd on Monday night!

We don't really have any BIG or SPOOKY plans this weekend. Tonight we are going to The Avett Brother's concert at the Bridgestone. I am really excited about the concert! Then tomorrow, I am working ... Working in my office in the morning and working showing houses all afternoon.

Hopefully, Sunday will be really relaxing!

Happy weekend!

Thursday's Home Tour

2011-10-27T10:27:00.000-05:00

Today's home tour is a little different than my usual ... It is not in Nashville and to my knowledge, it isn't even "For Sale". I spotted it on another blog yesterday and then again on Pinterest; I am loving so many things about this house.

Check out Southern Living for more details on the house ...

I am not really a purple person, but I love the trim on the couches. I also really like the stool and the coffee table, its nice to have both and it is nice that the space doesn't look cluttered.

I love the shelf above the windows ... I noticed it in several other places in the house and I think that is such a good idea!

I love this chair. I love the red pop of furniture. I love red, glossy door. I also, really love the built ins. Did I mention, I loved the chair? That fabric!

Isn't this a lovely home? Happy Thursday, sweet friends! I can't believe it is almost the weekend, again! This week went by crazy fast!

** All images are from Southern Living **

Ten Things I am Loving Right Now ...

2011-10-26T13:29:00.000-05:00

I haven't had much to write about lately ... Patrick and I are kind of stuck in a routine right now, not that that's bad or good, just routine. Things are moving right along for us ... Working hard, saving money, playing a little. I have to work again this weekend, but after that we have several down weekends ... I am really looking forward to some down time.

I wanted to share 10 things that I am really loving right now with you!

{1} My sweet, sweet husband. He is so kind to me and contributes so much to our household! I am so fortunate that I am married to a man that does so much to make me happy.

{2} Monday Nights on CBS - Patrick and I love "How I Met Your Mother" and "Two and Half Men". I've always loved both shows, but this season they are SO good. I have been looking forward to low key Monday nights, lately and I love it!

{3} Spaghetti Squash


Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

Spaghetti Squash and Pesto

{4} Our "FALL" front porch - Patrick and I went to the Farmer's Market last weekend. We bought two non-traditional pumpkins and two mums. I love how everything looks. I'll try to remember to post pictures!

{5} New Frames from Pottery Barn - We bought these frames for our hall bathroom and the gold really pops with the wall color. I still need to hang them!

{6} Cooler Temperature - Apparently, they are coming tomorrow, REALLY! I know I will only like the cool weather for another few weeks and then I will be ready for summer, but I want chilly days and cool nights!

{7} Anthropologie's Fall Clothes

{8} My Crock Pot - I haven't used it as much as I would like, but I am about to start cranking out some crock pot meals. I love coming home to a prepared meal and the yummy smells!

{9} The Color Gray

{10} The Holidays! - Halloween is just a few days away {5}! Thanksgiving is less than 30 days ... We are planning a SIX monthiversay trip! And then Christmas! I love this time of the year!

Recipe

2011-10-18T13:35:00.000-05:00

I don't have a lot to say today, but I thought I would post this recipe I tried this morning. I found these "Breakfast Cups" on Pinterest and thought it looked like a low-fat, filling breakfast ... And since my mom and I are doing Weight Watchers, I thought these may be worth trying.

At only 3 points for TWO, it was definitely worth trying.

Click here for the recipe. I modified my recipe a little and worked with the ingredients I had ... No sausage, but spinach and onion. I didn't have milk, so I used ricotta. I also didn't have enough parmesan, so I used mozzarella.

It was a good recipe. Easy. It cooked quickly. And best of all, I really enjoyed it!

Life

2011-10-14T13:31:00.000-05:00

I don't know about you, but sometimes I have a really hard time leaving "the rest" to God. There seems to be a little uncertainty in our lives right now and while I know if I would get on my knees and pray about it, that everything would work out. Some days, I just have a hard time doing that. It is something that I really need to work on ... In fact, this should be my motto for life! I love it!

Thursday Home Tour

2011-10-13T15:22:00.001-05:00

Sorry I've been a bad blogger this week. I was sick on Monday and feel like I am just catching up now! I am finally feeling caught up and now I am consumed by my weekend to-do. Our home is still a mess ... We are mostly finished, but I am ready to deep clean, buy a new couch, and finish all the drywall!

I hate drywall.

I've seen this house a few times and passed by it, because I don't really love the exterior.

If you have questions about the beautiful home or any others in Middle Tennessee, please let me know, I would love to have the opportunity to work with you!

I Want VERSUS I Have ...

2011-10-07T11:30:00.001-05:00

I find myself getting so hung up on the things that I want and not focusing enough on the things that I have. I wanted to take time to remember the things I HAVE. I get so caught up playing catch up, even if I am not playing with anyone but myself, I often forget how very lucky I am.

Do we all do this?

I have:

A wonderful, loving husband
A great set of parents
Two fun, kind, beautiful sisters
Loving in-laws
A comfortable home
New HARDWOOD floors
Plush new carpet
Enough clothes to fill many closets
A puppy with a wonderful personality
Money in the bank
A great group of friends
A job that I enjoy going to people, with people I enjoy being around
A relationship with God
The ability to travel
My health

When I look at the things I have, I step back and smile. I truly am a lucky girl, I just wish I didn't want those matching Pottery Barn nightstands so much!

Pottery Barn -- Too bad it's sold out! :(

I hope you have a wonderful week and enjoy all of our wonderful blessings!

Thursday Home Tour

2011-10-06T16:13:00.000-05:00

This house is very different from most that I write about. I showed this property earlier this week to investors, who are looking to start flipping homes. If I had the money, I would be all over this house. It is still priced a little high.

Before we get to the images, you have to have an imagination. There is no functioning kitchen or a bathroom. There is about 1400 square feet on the main level and an additional space upstairs with roughly 1000. The big, expensive drawback ... The upstairs, is completely unfinished!

This home is in Nashville and on the edge of a very cool neighborhood. There are so many qualities I like about this home, but I mostly love that you have the charm of an old home with the ability to make the interior much like new construction.

Oh and it is a foreclosure!

I love the exterior ... The concrete steps are a little too modern, but feel like landscaping could really tone the edges down!

Currently the kitchen only has the one bank of cabinets, below the windows. It is seriously lacking, but could be made into a great space. Don't you love the archways?

Yes, that's the bathroom. The hole in the ground? That's for the missing toilet!

This space to me is where all the potential is ... Two bedrooms and a play room. A huge master. I love the idea of working with such a blank canvas, but it would make me a mess to do this to a house.

The decking is pretty amazing! I love the backyard!

Hope you had fun playing pretend with me! If you have any questions about this house or any others in the Middle Tennessee area, please let me know. I'd love to help you find your perfect home!

I'm Dreaming ...

2011-10-05T16:07:00.001-05:00

Of FALL! I can't wait for 60 degree weather. Cool nights. Sweatshirts. Sweaters. Pumpkins. FALL. This is my favorite time of year and I am so over the warm weather. It's been so pleasant until today and now, 80! Seriously, it is OCTOBER!

I know that in two months, I will be wanting it to be summer, but I am really ready for fall. Eating dinner outside. Going to football games. Decorating for Halloween and Thanksgiving.

These are a few of my favorites right now ...

Here's to cooler temperatures!

** All images from Pinterest **

Book Club

2011-10-03T15:48:00.000-05:00

I love to read! A little known fact about me ... I didn't actually learn how to read when all of my classmates did. I memorized words and no one caught on until I was well into elementary school. I made up for it with summer school and classes and now, I love to read.

Often times, I find other distractions, but when I actually pick up a book, I prefer that to laying around watching T.V.

Last month I read two books, both of which I loved! {Another, little known fact, I love almost every book I read and almost every movie that I see}.

Google Images

I know a lot of people out there love Cheslea Handler. I think she is funny, but also really out there. I feel like I kind of have a love/hate relationship with her ... I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about her being a WRITER, when this was chosen for my book club, but I LOVED this book. I laughed out loud in so many places and I read a lot a loud to Patrick. I highly recommended if you are looking for a quick, fun read!

Google Images

If you loved the Traveling Pants series, this is a must read! It is about the girls all grown up ... They are in their late twenties ... In careers ... And their friendship. I LOVE LOVE LOVE this storyline! It was really emotional, but such a story of friendship and how it ebbs and flows. I liked it and felt like I was really in the same place in life ... I have such a solid group of friends, but find myself feeling lonely at times {more so recently} because we are all in really different places. Go out and get this book!

Happy Reading!

Thursday Home Tour

2011-09-29T14:06:00.000-05:00

I really had every intention of posting pictures of our home today, but I just haven't taken any! Everything is looking so sharp. I love the flooring. I love the bathroom. I've gotten a few new things and we are in the process of replacing our sofa. Lots of fun changes!

Next week, I promise!

In the meantime, I love this neighborhood in Nashville. It was built in the 80's, larger lots, great elementary school, a nice neighborhood feel. Sometimes, it is really affordable and sometimes grossly overpriced. This particular home is wonderful. It is only 3 bedrooms, but there is a lot of living space and the homeowner has done some nice updates.

The exterior is pretty plain, but I think it could really look beautiful with some different paint and a lot more landscaping!

I don't know about these floors, but I like what they were thinking.

As always, if you have questions about this home or any others in Middle Tennessee, please let me know!

Meal Planning

2011-09-27T12:49:00.004-05:00

Do you plan your meals? Some weeks I do a great job and other weeks, I really suck! Since we were out of town this past weekend, I have not made it to the grocery store or really thought about meals and who is eating what.

This morning I sorted through my recipes and decided what I wanted to prepare for the rest of this week and most of next. I also, love Pinterest for recipes ... I get tend to get really stumped when it comes to coming up with original ideas.

Here is what our next week or so looks like:

Tuesday 09/27:            DINNER                       Eat Out

Wednesday 09/28:      DINNER                       Potato; Sour Cream Chicken; Green Beans

Thursday 09/29:          DINNER                       Fish
                                                                       Stuffed Tomatoes

Friday, 09/30:              DINNER                        Date Night

Sunday, 10/02:                                               Corn & Crab Soup

Monday, 10/03:            DINNER                       Quiche

Tuesday, 10/04:           DINNER                     Crockpot Enchilada Soup

Wednesday, 10/05:     DINNER                        Eat Out

Thursday, 10/06:         DINNER                        Leftovers

Weekend Update

2011-09-26T13:23:00.000-05:00

Patrick and I visited Minneapolis-Saint Paul this week. It was my first trip to Minnesota and we had a great time.

Patrick's grandfather was one of seven and most of his great aunts, uncles, cousins still live in that area. So, on Friday morning, we headed north for a quasi family reunion of sorts. We had a great time ... The family members were warm and loving; the weather was calm and pleasant.

It was definitely a nice change of pace and I am so thankful that we were able to go. We met so many lovely, new family members and I hope that we can build a relationship and see one another more frequently.

We went to the Mall of America, Crate and Barrel, and IKEA! I am so thankful that Patrick is ok with shopping, it is more enjoyable when he will tag along. And, best of all, I think we found a couch! I am still on the fence, a little. It wasn't the couch I originally wanted, but there was another one, I liked and Patrick LOVED.

I am glad to be back. We got home late last night and I need to catch up on some zzz's {and adjust to the 80 degree weather!}

I hope your Monday is off to a good start and you have a productive week!

New Specs ...

2011-09-21T16:56:00.000-05:00

I've been married for four months and haven't yet taken advantage of my HEALTH INSURANCE! I have provided my own insurance the past three and half years, so I have skimped on doctor's visits. I have a bunch I need to schedule.

I really need some new eye glasses. I don't know that I really need a new RX, but should probably be checked out, just in case.

Here are some glasses, I've been thinking about ...

I love my current glasses and hate to part with them, but they are four years old and REALLY need to be replaced. What kind of glasses do you like?

All images from Pinterest

Monday, Monday ...

2011-09-19T12:15:00.000-05:00

Pink Wallpaper

Oh Monday ... Why are you so hard on me? I am beginning to really dislike Monday mornings. I feel so much pressure to start the week strong and I am never ready for work at 8 AM or 9 AM come Monday morning.

We stayed up late last night ... Moving furniture, cleaning, doing loads of laundry. The hardwoods look incredible and I am loving all the progress we've made. We still have more to move tonight and hopefully the carpet will be installed this week. I can't wait to feel soft carpet between my toes ... I think Tatum will be pretty excited, too!

I am dragging this morning though ... I am hungry. And very sleepy. We had a sick pups last night and with the rainy weather, I just want to crawl under my desk and hide.

Happy Monday!

Things I've Bought Lately ...

2011-09-16T13:36:00.000-05:00


Etsy

Recently, I ordered two Turkish towels for our full bath. I got the color above, limey-yellow, I can't wait to get it monogrammed with a big M!

Etsy

I also ordered this cute print for one of the two baths. I love letter press. And I love Rocky Top, so it seemed very fitting.

Home Depot

This is the vanity that we decided on for the hall bath. It won't be delivered until next Friday, but I am pretty excited about it. We are cutting out the centers of the door and putting in glass.

This weekend we are having the hardwoods installed! I can't wait ... Touch up paint, new baseboards, moving furniture! I hope your weekend is full fun projects!

Thursday's Home Tour

2011-09-15T11:42:00.000-05:00

Ok, still no pictures of my house and it's ever-changing condition, but I PROMISE I will post some, soon. We are having the hardwoods installed this weekend and I am so looking forward to having at least some of our home back in order.

It took me a while to find this house, but it is one I have shown recently. The homeowners have actually taken it off the market, but it is a beautiful home and what's better, the family looks like they are beautiful people {on the insider}.

The pictures don't show, but they had sweet quotes, Bible verses, and a home full of life ... It appeared, from their photos that they have adopted children from all over, as well as having a couple biological children. Those who know me, know I have a heart for adoption and I love seeing families brought together.

Enjoy the tour, it was an incredible house!

Isn't it a neat house?

Enjoy the day!

As always, if you have questions about this house or any others in Middle Tennessee, please feel free to contact me. I'd love to help you!

Yum Yum

2011-09-14T10:22:00.000-05:00

I usually am so so good about meal planning, pre-preparing, and cook meals. But, when your house looks like a dump, it is really difficult to want to cook and try to clean up, when you can't really clean.

But, that's nether here or there. And, I think I will be getting better, because we are getting FLOORS {some floors} this weekend!

I have been using my crockpot a lot lately and found this recipe on Pinterest ... Creamy Tortellini Soup.

If you are looking for something to make tonight ... I HIGHLY recommend this. Patrick wants to add chicken. A girl I work with adds Italian Sausage. It is good. Really good. And so easy. {Side note: I only used 3 cups of water, not 4}

I apologize for being a flaky blogger and I promise I will get better. I've felt really under the weather this week, then along with my house, I am just a mess! But, I can see light at the end of the tunnel!

Dreaming of a FANCY Sofa!

2011-09-09T11:15:00.000-05:00

As most of you know, I have been wanting a new sofa since Patrick moved into my life {and house}. I go back and forth ... Pottery Barn, Lee Industries, Restoration Hardware. I can't make a decision.

My last sofa purchase was small. $500. It lasted three years. It's been a good couch, but now I know what I need. I've never liked the cushions, because you can't really cuddle without a corner of a cushion crushing your face. I hate having a skirt, because the dog ALWAYS lays there. I like having a neutral color, but don't like owning a white couch {repeat}. I don't really like HIGH arms and I hate having pillows at the arm of the couch ... Seems like wasted space.

I would love a sectional or a chaise, but with the configuration of our living room, that just won't cut it. Like, cut the room in half.

After all my wishy-washy thinking, I know I want a Rolled Arm Sofa. I lust after this one from Restoration Hardware:

Restoration Hardware

I will happily spend money on nice things. And I know that buying the couch I want will set me back a pretty penny, but I also want to invest a sofa that we can recovered and that will live in our house {some where} ... That being said I have a HARD time swallowing RH's prices, so I have been browsing CraigsList ... Searching in "regular" {i.e. cheaper} furniture stores ... Then last night I open my new Crate and Barrel catalog and there it was ...

Crate and Barrel

It is beautiful and a fraction of RH's price.

I will leave you with these two living rooms I am loving this week. I can't get enough of the images and I want to recreate them in my home, but I am not really sure how with the pieces I have, but I am going to work on figuring that out!

Bryn Alexandra

Crate and Barrel

Enjoy your weekends, loveys! I hope to be back Monday with pictures of our house and progress, thus far!

All Good Things Must Come To An End ...

2011-09-06T15:19:00.000-05:00

Patrick and I escaped this past weekend. We left town on Thursday and headed to Orange Beach, Alabama ... Despite, Tropical Storm Lee, we had a great time. I love the beach ... {sure the weather was a downer}.

But, we ate and drank a lot. We had so much good food, but my most favorite drinks were {1} Bushwacker {2} Mexican Coffee {3} Watermelon Margaritas. Yum! I mean, I could drink all day!

We didn't take too many pictures, mostly because we didn't spend too much time on the beach. It rained pretty much the whole time, we had a few hours of sunshine, one afternoon.

That's all we took on Patrick's phone ... Sorry for the yucky quality!

I saw this over the weekend and wanted to share ...

Lavendar and Lilies

Thursday Home Tour

2011-09-01T11:14:00.001-05:00

I thought about using my house as the home, featured in my tour this morning, but quickly veto'ed that decision. Maybe next week, if I feel like we are making progress. Which this week, I feel like we have been at a lull.

This home is in a neighborhood, that I love some days and some days I worry is still a little too transitional for my grown up home. Although, a lot can change in the next 3-7 years, or whenever we may decide to move.

I love the porch. The only thing that would make the exterior better, in my eyes, is painted brick, fabulous lighting, and a port-a-co!

I love the dishwasher ... Small load. Large load. I would love to have something like this in our current home, but just don't know if the return would be there. I love the two toned cabinets and the little piece of butcher block.

This little room is off the master ... Could be an office? A huge closet? A sitting room? I love the windows.

This home is so charming and has so much character. If you have questions about this property or any others in the Middle Tennessee area, please let me know.

House Updates ...

2011-08-31T11:53:00.000-05:00

Original title, I know!

We have been so busy working on the home, but last night we had cable for the first time in almost two weeks! We were in heaven! I loved catching up on all of our shows!

The bathrooms are both about 60% complete. I still need a mirror for the half bath, I keep going back and forth on what I want, but I keep coming back to this:

Pottery Barn

Tonight I am going to spend some time in the half bathroom ... Painting the beadboard. Spray painting some frames. Patrick is installing a new toilet in the hall bath and I may bring home a few paint samples.

My Perfect Color

I love this color ... Calypso Blue. It is probably my first choice, but I need to see what it actually looks like on the wall.


My Perfect Color

I don't know about this one. I love the other had more green in it ... This is pretty close to what I already have. Majestic Blue. I will probably end up playing with paint this evening!

We still haven't heard from the insurance company ... I spoke with someone, other than my claim representative last night, and they said my claim was being processed. I am hoping that we can order hardwoods and carpet before the week, so that we can look forward to the installation in the next week or so. I am anxious to get our home back together. Or at least more livable.

I will try to take pictures in the next few days to post.

At least, I can get away at work!

Happy!

2011-08-26T14:20:00.000-05:00

We got our wedding images in the mail! We've actually had them for several weeks now, but finally have had to look through them. This is one of my favorite. Tomorrow is our four-month-a-versary! YEA! It's been a rough month, but we are plowing through and I am so ready for a good long vacation. I love you, Patrick!

Happy Weekend!

Projects. Projects. Projects.

2011-08-23T14:10:00.001-05:00

I love a good project. Patrick does too. Unfortunately, having a house without flooring ... In my mind I see a shell of a home and my mind is so busy thinking of everything that I would like to do.

I know a lot of these things we WON'T be able to all at once. Obviously, flooring is most important ... Hardwoods, carpet, tile. Then both bathrooms will take precedent. After that, I will feel comfortable addressing any other ideas/projects that we may have.

But, good news ... We have a potty at home! It works! I am so excited ... I can't wait to finish the rest of that bathroom.

If I win the lottery this week, these would be the other projects we would do:

GRASSCLOTH! I would love to have grasscloth lining our hallway. I love this color, because it is a little different from the normal tan color.

UPGRADE LAUNDRY ROOM! I would love to knock out the wall, where there used to be a laundry closet and do something like this for our washer and dryer and extra storage.

I like these two images for my laundry room renovation ... I love the wallpaper lined cabinets! I really want something similar ... Glass cabinets to store my milk glass. A concealed place for the microwave and laundry items. I love this idea and hope that we can work towards something pretty like these images!

Hope you have a pretty day!

RELAX ...

2011-08-22T13:34:00.000-05:00

Patrick and I are going to the beach for a LONG, Labor Day weekend and I can not wait! I can not even begin to tell you how excited that I am ... I need a break.

Life has been stressful. At home. At work. I feel like I can't escape. I am really looking forward to a long weekend with my husband where our conversations don't revolve around work and projects on the house.

We are just going to Orange Beach, but I don't think I could be more excited if I tried!

In other news, Patrick and I made a little progress on the house. We are now living completely on sub-floor, with the exception of the half bath, which is tiled/grouted ... Waiting on the toilet to be installed TONIGHT! I am pretty excited about having a toilet at home again. I picked out a few carpets I liked, as well as some wood floors. Now I guess we just wait to hear what the insurance company is going to do.

Keep your fingers crossed.

Thursday Home Tour

2011-08-18T17:42:00.000-05:00

I totally should not be looking at beautiful homes and lusting over properties right now. I need to focus on my own home, but here goes!

I love this house not only because of the way it looks, but it is in the PERFECT location for our next home. It is 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2000 square feet with a finished room in the basement. I am on the fence about the next place we buy ... {1} A really good deal, just the next price range up from what we would be selling -- If we did something like this, probably live there for 4 to 6 years {2} Jump in a price to a home in the exact area we would want to live, in a great school district, and to a much larger price range. This home is kind of in the middle of these two options. Priced reasonably {under $350} with a lot of things I would want, but I am not sure if we would "out grow" it too quickly.

P.S. -- This is ALL totally imaginary! We aren't planning on buying a house anytime soon. Nor do we need to currently worry about out growing anything.

There are a lot of things I really like about the house. The age. The details. But, I also am not in love with the kitchen or the bedrooms, but I love a good project.

Speaking of projects, everything went well with the adjustor this AM ... Way less painful than I thought. Now we wait.

As always, if you have questions about this listing or any other home in Middle Tennessee, please let me know, I would love to help you!

Remember

2011-08-17T16:48:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow I am meeting with the insurance adjustor. I am so nervous. I don't know what to expect. And I am anxious to be able to start putting our home back together. We are trying to stay at home tonight and it makes me really nervous. I hope we are able to handle it.

Oh and p.s. -- I may or may not have a toilet installed. Are you jealous of my past two weeks yet?

Hello Long Lost Friends ...

2011-08-16T13:38:00.000-05:00

I apologize for being M.I.A. I've had a hell-va past week ends.

I've been working non-stop ... One of my co-workers is out on maternity leave and while I've loved being busy and being able to help her {and her clients out} 10 hour days wear me out! I am so over it.

Last week, while I was listing a house, my car overheated. Patrick was out of town and was not in the most ideal neighborhood. Luckily, my dad was able to come save the day! Then the next night, Patrick came home from Louisville ... I got home the same time he did, from his trip ... We walk inside and it is hot, humid and there is a loud noise coming from the inside. I walk into the hallway and see water flowing from the hall bath. Yes, the one we had just worked on!

Currently, we are living in a hotel.

Only about 200 square feet, of our 1200 square foot, currently has flooring. Our living/bedroom are all one big room. After today, we will not have a working toilet. I am beyond stressed, but thankful that nothing other than our flooring was ruined. I pray that the insurance company will give us enough money to replace the flooring. The insurance company isn't sending anyone out until Thursday and I am really anxious to see what he has to say.

I promise I will work on being a better blog. Bad blogging seems to be my motto this summer. I am sorry. In the meantime, say a little prayer for us!

A Good Time For All ...

2011-08-05T11:41:00.001-05:00

I love projects. I think Patrick loves them, too. At least I hope he does. He thinks I have a problem because I like to be busy ... I think that is woman thing. I love to relax and have down time, but I also feel like I should be doing chores and taking care of the house.

I have a list of things I want to finish on the house this year:

Finish Exterior Paint
Finish Shed: Hardie Board; Paint; Window Boxes
Replace Roof
Replace Gutters
Replace Soffets
Re-Do Living Room
Paint Ceiling
Paint Trim
Buy a Nicer Dresser for Guest Room
Organize Guest Room/Office Closet
Remodel Hallway Bath {nothing major here}

So far one thing is marked off the list! We are off to a good start. I want to work on the bigger projects before the little things ... But, I found some bathroom inspiration on Pinterest this week.

But, I need to focus on the more important projects and finish those before we start something else ... I just have to keep reminding myself that!

Enjoy your weekend!

Thursday's Home Tour

2011-08-04T16:53:00.000-05:00

I looked at a lot of houses today before I found one that I liked enough to post about. I came across a lot of newer construction, which I was suprised, because normally I do not like new construction very much at all. I am an old, charming, house with character kind of girl.

There is a neighborhood in Franklin that I love and that's where this house is located. It is the model home and I love the style of the house as well as most of the interior features.

Don't you just love the outside. I love the double porches so much ... Growing up some of my parents best friends from college lived in {still do} this beautiful home with double porches. I've always had a thing for a good porch.

And one of my favorite things ... A butler's pantry between the kitchen and the dining room. I love that the stairs aren't there to greet you right at the front door.

Not sure why there is still a tree in the pictures, but what about those built-ins? It reminds me of older homes that have built-ins flanking the fireplace. I love that extra special touch! And while I don't love the colors in the room, I love the shape of the chairs.

I think I like the Master Bath because of the TWO SINKS! Some day!

On a side note, I've worked 50 hours this week and tomorrow can not get here soon enough. Tonight, I am meeting a girlfriend for Mexican ... Get the weekend started early!

Please remember, if you have any questions about this home or any others in Middle Tennessee, I would love to help you!

Yum Yum in My Tum ...

2011-08-03T13:37:00.000-05:00

I have really been making an effort to make dinner and prepare our food ahead of time. I've done a pretty good job and only had a few near misses. I've been going to the grocery on Sunday and doing most of the prep work on that same day ... That way during the week I have it pretty easy!

Last night our meal was really really good ... We had steak, risotto, veggies and best of all BLACKBERRY COBBLER. Patrick's mom had given us some blackberries that I was afraid I wouldn't use them fast enough, so yummy dessert it was!

Skirt Steak Recipe

Cheesy Leak Risotto

Blackberry Cobbler

Also, while I've been on my cooking kick ... We really enjoyed The Pioneer Woman's Potato Leek Pizza ... Try it, now!