tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30283010387071226532019-03-27T15:01:58.944-04:00Simply Southern GirlJoin me, a "Simply Southern" Girl as I chronicle my findings, ideas, passions, recipes, travels & adventures along the way. You might find me a little bit random, but hopefully always inspirational and fun!Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger1994125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-33754917334494826472018-08-31T17:30:00.002-04:002018-10-19T21:17:43.520-04:00Yellowstone National Park<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">During one of the mister & I's adventures we set out to visit North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho and Nebraska.. Like many of our trips, we had a rough outline of our agenda but allowed wiggle room to stay longer, or leave earlier if we felt the need to alter our schedule. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One of the highlights of our trip was the visit to Yellowstone National Park. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CjZCZMRl_KM/WchDYq_sPPI/AAAAAAAAGuE/VX-MCK14bCclhZuEd-hdsxfDwUXZ_yZ_gCLcBGAs/s1600/73080_10100376744902043_2971643_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CjZCZMRl_KM/WchDYq_sPPI/AAAAAAAAGuE/VX-MCK14bCclhZuEd-hdsxfDwUXZ_yZ_gCLcBGAs/s640/73080_10100376744902043_2971643_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DKzd6W2DKi4/WdG3TG--VoI/AAAAAAAAGu8/jsq_8AM3uGg-2rD-oKrCD6nrsSax4nK4wCLcBGAs/s1600/73015_10100376745875093_8213081_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="540" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DKzd6W2DKi4/WdG3TG--VoI/AAAAAAAAGu8/jsq_8AM3uGg-2rD-oKrCD6nrsSax4nK4wCLcBGAs/s320/73015_10100376745875093_8213081_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><br /><a href="https://www.nps.gov/yell/index.htm" target="new">Yellowstone</a>is the world's first national park. It is also one of its most unique and well visited. The park is 3,400 square miles and boasts geysers, mountain lakes, forests, river canyons, waterfalls, and many threatened species.</div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The Grand Prismatic Spring, the third-largest hot spring in the world.</div><div style="text-align: center;">We both agreed we could go back and spent a week or two just in Yellowstone. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">After a ton of research we opt'd to go in the "off season" While some areas of the park were closed to visitors, we appreciated the lack of tourists, and quite honestly felt like we had the park to ourselves much of the time. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u8jWecM7EEo/WdG3TKgzr1I/AAAAAAAAGvA/B2tLvxm8bkUhrO0H6X2GcIRT9PibJYzlgCLcBGAs/s1600/73466_10100376746324193_3062609_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u8jWecM7EEo/WdG3TKgzr1I/AAAAAAAAGvA/B2tLvxm8bkUhrO0H6X2GcIRT9PibJYzlgCLcBGAs/s640/73466_10100376746324193_3062609_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Several have asked me for tips when visiting Yellowstone.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Note I am no expert but here are a few things I suggest. </div><div style="text-align: center;"> 1. Even in the off season, Old Faithful is a big draw. I suggest planning to see Old Faithful in the early morning or in the evening. We followed this advise and watched her in all her glory with just 4 other people in the early am. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8yluKaryhv4/WdG3TI_-gvI/AAAAAAAAGvE/Vv9HvmuvF1Az7d5euZQIbNcwhZZv3WjPACLcBGAs/s1600/74545_10100376745021803_7095748_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8yluKaryhv4/WdG3TI_-gvI/AAAAAAAAGvE/Vv9HvmuvF1Az7d5euZQIbNcwhZZv3WjPACLcBGAs/s640/74545_10100376745021803_7095748_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">2. Take the time to take a hike. (big or small) Don’t just see Yellowstone’s wonders through your car window. Walking even a ½ mile on a boardwalk or trail offers you a more complete sense of Yellowstone. And you are able to get up close and personal to so many of the parks amazing features. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AwtFIFgYZvw/WdG3TCN9oHI/AAAAAAAAGvI/3suGpPvXWXcwRBqOgwJQV-giqxxgD5sbgCLcBGAs/s1600/76099_10100376747282273_3443982_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AwtFIFgYZvw/WdG3TCN9oHI/AAAAAAAAGvI/3suGpPvXWXcwRBqOgwJQV-giqxxgD5sbgCLcBGAs/s640/76099_10100376747282273_3443982_n.jpg" width="640" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">With little light pollution, the night sky is a wonder. Take time to get outside. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We drove to the center of the park, were careful to look for animals, and go outside</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">it was crazy what you could see. Truly nearly the entire milky way is just shinning down for you to see </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xdr1TRKWS3w/WdG3S2-w0iI/AAAAAAAAGu4/qHFODIiFaU0_zj3z-Pg6AaNA72xytHw5gCLcBGAs/s1600/149633_10100376745226393_751914_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xdr1TRKWS3w/WdG3S2-w0iI/AAAAAAAAGu4/qHFODIiFaU0_zj3z-Pg6AaNA72xytHw5gCLcBGAs/s640/149633_10100376745226393_751914_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-15140119157402812972017-10-16T13:37:00.000-04:002018-10-19T21:20:24.098-04:00Fall Favorite - 4-Cheese Artichoke Dip—or Pasta Sauce<div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;"></span></div><div style="font-family: "helvetica"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vaBGpcuhbvM/WeTwtnZf5MI/AAAAAAAAGwU/yyhxENN5t5UgxilKtzviSJE6Qu5rpW0jACLcBGAs/s1600/StC_Cover_0802_Final_HIGH.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="512" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vaBGpcuhbvM/WeTwtnZf5MI/AAAAAAAAGwU/yyhxENN5t5UgxilKtzviSJE6Qu5rpW0jACLcBGAs/s320/StC_Cover_0802_Final_HIGH.JPG" width="256" /></a><span style="font-size: small;">Fall is here & that means busier days/nights. Which means we will be having more crock pot meals at the Riley residence! Just picked up the Stock the Crock by Phyllis Good. Copyright © 2017 Oxmoor House<span style="font-family: serif;">. </span>The mister has already dog eared recipes he wants to try</span></div><div style="font-family: "helvetica"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"></div><div style="font-family: "helvetica"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px; text-align: center;"><br /><b><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">4-Cheese</span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;"> Artichoke Dip—or Pasta Sauce </span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">by Jessica S.</span></b></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cMtHaE5FqFE/WeTwtrKKhJI/AAAAAAAAGwQ/UWrOhP9XHfoviq3h_BgEu4ptW4P3R78QgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_7185.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="907" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cMtHaE5FqFE/WeTwtrKKhJI/AAAAAAAAGwQ/UWrOhP9XHfoviq3h_BgEu4ptW4P3R78QgCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_7185.jpg" width="264" /></a><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">3 </span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">qt</span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;"> slow cooker M</span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">akes 7 to 10 cups </span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">Prep :</span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;"> 15 to 20 minutes Cook : 1 to 1 1⁄2 hours</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;"> 2 (14-ounce) cans water-packed artichoke hearts, coarsely </span><br /><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;"> chopped (drain one can; reserve the liquid from the other </span><br /><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;"> can to add to the dip)</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;"> 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, at room temperature</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">1 cup grated Parmesan cheese</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">1⁄2 cup shredded Swiss cheese</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">1⁄</span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">2 cup</span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;"> mayonnaise</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">2 tablespoons lemon juice</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">2 tablespoons plain yogurt</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">1 tablespoon seasoned salt</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">1 tablespoon seeded, chopped jalapeño </span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">chile</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">1 teaspoon</span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;"> garlic powder</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">T</span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">ortilla chips</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">F</span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">resh topper: sliced green onions, optional</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">1. </span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">Grease the interior of the slow cooker crock with butter or nonstick cooking spray.</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">2. </span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">Combine the artichoke hearts and next 10 ingredients (through garlic powder) in the prepared crock.</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">3. </span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">Cover. </span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">Cook on Low 1 hour, or until the cheeses are melted and the dip is heated through.</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">4. </span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">Top with green onions, if desired. Serve from the cooker with tortilla chips.</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">Make 4-Cheese Artichoke Pasta Sauce</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">Combine the first 11 ingredients as stated above, but use a 5-quart slow cooker. Thaw 2 (10-ounce) packages of frozen chopped spinach. Squeeze the spinach dry. Stir it into the mixture in Step 2. Follow the directions in Step 3, cooking another 30 minutes if needed to heat the sauce through.</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">Serve over rotini, </span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">cavatappi</span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">, or another twisty pasta that will catch and hold the creamy vegetables.</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">Make It for Picky Eaters</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">Omit the jalapeño </span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">chile</span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">.</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">Simple Swap</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">Substitute fresh vegetables for the canned artichokes. Wash </span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">1 1⁄2 pounds fresh spinach</span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">. Chop it. Microwave, covered, on High for 3 to 4 minutes, or until it’s still bright green but wilted. Allow </span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">to cool</span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;">. Then squeeze dry. Stir it into the mixture in Step 2.</span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 21.6px;"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 21.6px;"></span></div><div style="font-family: "helvetica"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;">Reprinted photos shared with permission from Time Inc. Books, a division of Time Inc. New York, NY. All rights reserved.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: small;">Note I received a copy of the book but was not asked to complete a blog post all opinions are my own.... </span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-9834927322891411532017-09-17T21:20:00.001-04:002018-10-19T21:21:02.992-04:00Charity Auction fun! searching for some new ideas... As most of my readers know I am involved with both the sorority I joined in college as an advisor, and serve on the Board of Directors for a local non-profit. I am always reading and looking for new ideas for charity auctions. Silent Auctions, Live Auctions, Facebook auctions, you name them we have them.<br /><br />We recently I discovered <a href="https://www.charityauctionstoday.com/">Charity Auctions</a>, and while we have not yet utilized them. I feel the need to share this find with my readers, as I am completely jazzed on what they offer. I am looking further into what they offer for a few reasons. 1. would love to add an online component to our collegiate auction to engage with alumnae. 2. love the idea of the mobile auction for bidding- I mean who doesn't have a phone on them at all times these days 3. some of the big items we won't have to fork out the money upfront.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://cat-rails-production.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/auction/item/image/74577/big_image_image1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Big image image1" border="0" class="img-responsive" height="380" src="https://cat-rails-production.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/auction/item/image/74577/big_image_image1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>In relation to #3 above I was excited to check out the items they had to offer. And to check out some of the current auctions they had going on (you can check them out <a href="https://www.charityauctionstoday.com/item/charity_auctions">here</a>)<br /><br />I have to say I am always drawn to trips/experiences and handmade items in auctions be it art, or something like this beautiful quilt. While searching all the current auctions/items I determined anyone can bid so for the next 11 days and 23 hours... I'll be watching this one for the <a href="https://www.charityauctionstoday.com/auctions/SCTheatre-2935/items/handmadequiltbycindywhite-51338">here </a><br /><br /><br />While I was initially contacted to review charity auctions as a sponsored post, I decided to do so as I am love what it has to offer. All opinions and thoughts are 100% my own. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-53849734740275791942017-02-28T22:32:00.001-05:002017-02-28T23:00:52.521-05:00Cashiers, NC..... some of our favorite places to eat.. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8HXGVwBSSyE/WLZBCMUSZ8I/AAAAAAAAGjg/iaOywmbCtzEwfFDOKkzWprpdMWP9zUCiwCLcB/s1600/12065614_10106793033692873_288082031548385438_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8HXGVwBSSyE/WLZBCMUSZ8I/AAAAAAAAGjg/iaOywmbCtzEwfFDOKkzWprpdMWP9zUCiwCLcB/s640/12065614_10106793033692873_288082031548385438_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">“Travel and change of place impart new vigor to the mind.” – Seneca</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">Cashiers, NC </span></span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">Photo taken on lake Glenville</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">Favorite Restaurants </span></span></div><ol><li><span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption"> <a href="http://www.cornucopianc.com/">Corucopia </a></span></span><span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">-Love this history of this restaurant, and the cute little food shop attached. We typically get friend green beans for an appetizer, and I opt for the Cobb Salad, and this mister one of the many sandwich options</span></span></li><li><span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption"> </span></span><span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption"><a href="http://www.theorchardcashiers.com/">Orchard Restaurant</a> - This is a favorite for a nice dinner in town. They have a good wine selection, and I can honestly say we are always delighted with the meal. Their fried green tomatoes are a great appetizer, and you cant go wrong with their </span></span>FRANKLINIA RAVIOLI- Wild mushroom stuffed ravioli, roasted red peppers, wild mushrooms, spinach and asparagus tossed with a light basil cream alfredo sauce. A favorite is also their SILVER RUN SEAFOOD AND PASTA<br />Pan seared jumbo sea scallops, shrimp, Prince Edward Island mussels, and wild mushrooms all sauteed with roasted red peppers, roma tomatoes and shallots, in a garlic herb white wine broth with wild mushroom stuffed ravioli. (can you tell I like mushrooms) Fun fact- they also have an adorable guest cottage. I will post more on that in an upcoming post.(will link when complete)</li><li><a href="http://www.randevunc.com/home.html">Randevu</a> -This is a favorite for brunch. The portions are large, and the omelets are amazing! They also serve lunch and dinner</li><li><a href="http://www.slabtownpizza.com/menu.html">Slab Town Pizza</a> - We gave slab town a go on our last trip to the cabin. The pizza topping offering is large, and the pizzas are huge! Great place to grab a pizza to go, or stop in and watch a game. </li><li><a href="http://www.theuglydogpub.com/Welcome.html">Ugly Dog Pub</a> - This is a favorite of ours. They are located in Highlands and Cashiers. If you stop into the Cashiers location look for a white framed photo of Georgia Anne on the wall. They have a good beer selection, great live music, and a varied menu. They also support the local humane society with donations! You can't go wrong</li><li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bucks-Coffee-Cafe/135885016461334">Bucks Coffee</a> - Another spot that is also in Highlands, and is conviently located at 4 points intersection. This is a great morning stop before you head out, and they also often have live music in the evenings for you to stop in and have some wine. </li></ol><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Check back for an upcoming post about some of our favorite hiking spots </b></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-2460140630191451392016-12-04T23:14:00.001-05:002016-12-04T23:14:31.778-05:00Almost-Famous Peppermint Bark <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tHESlqHVjdY/WEToKcKH6xI/AAAAAAAAGbQ/_MH3jxIchRIfoLZcYzPphQd7Edr-ITBkgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tHESlqHVjdY/WEToKcKH6xI/AAAAAAAAGbQ/_MH3jxIchRIfoLZcYzPphQd7Edr-ITBkgCLcB/s320/IMG_1965.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />With the holidays around the corner, it is time for my annual cookie baking extravaganza! This year in addition to making some of my favorites (<a href="http://www.simplysoutherngirl.com/2013/11/monster-cookies.html">Monster cookies</a>, <a href="http://www.simplysoutherngirl.com/2012/12/holiday-cookies-peanut-blossoms.html">Peanut Butter Blossoms</a>, <a href="http://www.simplysoutherngirl.com/2009/12/reindeer-chow.html">Reindeer Chow</a>, & <a href="http://www.simplysoutherngirl.com/2016/09/earlier-this-week-i-blogged-about-being.html">Butter Pecan Cookies</a>), I decided to give the Peppermint Bark a try. After sometime spent looking at various recipes I opt'd to try the <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/almost-famous-peppermint-bark-recipe.html">Food Networks, Almost- Famous Peppermint Bark</a>. Below is the recipe with the edits that I made denoted in <b>bold</b>. I am sure I will make again this holiday season, and I will make note to take step by step photos to update this post with! <br /><br /><div><b>Ingredients</b><br /><ul><li> 12 ounces good-quality semisweet chocolate, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces</li><li>1 1/2 teaspoons peppermint extract</li><li>1 pound good-quality white chocolate, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces</li><li>3 candy canes or 12 round hard peppermint candies, crushed (I started with 6 candy canes & used more until I was happy with how they looked on top)</li></ul><div><b>Directions</b><br /><br /><ul><li><b>I stared by putting candy canes into a gallon ziplock bag and then used a rolling pin to break them up. I started with 6, and added a few more.. </b> </li><li>Line a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with aluminum foil, shiny-side up; smooth out any wrinkles. </li><li>Heat 1 inch of water in a saucepan over low heat until steaming.</li><li>Put all but 3/4 cup of the semisweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Set the bowl over the saucepan of steaming water (do not let the bowl touch the water) and stir until one-third of the chocolate is melted. Remove the bowl from the saucepan; keep the steaming water over low heat. Gradually stir the reserved 3/4 cup semisweet chocolate into the bowl, a few pieces at a time, until all of the chocolate is melted. Return the bowl to the saucepan, 5 to 10 seconds at a time, to help melt the chocolate, if needed. Do not rush this step: It may take up to 10 minutes to melt the chocolate. <b>note it took me the full 10 minutes... </b> </li><li>Wipe off any moisture from the bottom of the bowl. Stir 3/4 teaspoon peppermint extract into the chocolate, then quickly pour into the prepared baking dish and spread in an even layer. Firmly tap the dish against the counter to remove any air bubbles. Set aside at room temperature until almost set, about 10 minutes.</li><li>Meanwhile, put all but 1 cup of the white chocolate in a large heatproof bowl and repeat the melting process over the steaming water; dry off the bottom of the bowl. Stir in the remaining 3/4 teaspoon peppermint extract; pour over the semisweet chocolate and spread in an even layer. <b>(note i then used a knife and swirled the chocolates together, becuase I liked the way it looked)</b></li><li>Sprinkle immediately with the crushed candy canes, gently pressing them into the white chocolate. <b>or swirled chocolate if you are me) </b> </li><li>Set aside at room temperature until firm, about 1 hour. </li><li>Lift the bark out of the pan using the foil and break it into pieces. </li><li>Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.</li></ul></div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><br />Read <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/almost-famous-peppermint-bark-recipe.html?oc=linkback">Orignial Receipe over on Food Network</a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-7800712392576353552016-09-01T00:49:00.001-04:002016-09-01T00:49:41.382-04:00Brown Butter Pecan CookiesEarlier this week, I blogged about being from New Orleans originally, and how I have an affinity for a <a href="http://www.communitycoffee.com/">Community Coffee</a>, so when they reached out to see if I would be interested in partnering with them for some samples it was a no brainier! I shared that I would be doing something different with the coffee samples, trying some recipes from their website. I shared the <a href="http://www.simplysoutherngirl.com/2016/08/if-you-know-me-you-know-i-love-coffee.html">Southwestern Snack Mix,</a> and today Ill be sharing the Brown Butter Pecan Cookies! These are sure to be on repeat with Fall decides to arrive in North Florida! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4O3KJzPjQeA/V8eyLxQCT7I/AAAAAAAAGTw/lkF1o_Uq1EsZbyULlcOLaMqEPoTWs06TACLcB/s1600/Browned%2BButter%2BPecan%2BCookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4O3KJzPjQeA/V8eyLxQCT7I/AAAAAAAAGTw/lkF1o_Uq1EsZbyULlcOLaMqEPoTWs06TACLcB/s400/Browned%2BButter%2BPecan%2BCookies.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>INGREDIENTS </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b> </b> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 cup Unsalted butter</div><br />3⁄4 cup Confectioners’ sugar<br /><br />1 tsp. Vanilla extract<br /><br />2 cups All-purpose flour<br /><br />1 tbsp. Community® House Blend coffee, ground<br /><br />3 tbsps. Water, divided<br /><br />3⁄4 tsp. Salt<br /><br />24 Pecan halves<br /><br />Optional Confectioners’ sugar as garnish<br /><br /><b>DIRECTIONS</b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Cook until butter turns a medium-brown color and has a nutty aroma, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and pour into a bowl. Refrigerate until almost firm, about 1 hour,stirring occasionally.</div><br />2. Preheat oven to 300°.<br /><br />3. In a large bowl, beat browned butter, confectioners’ sugar and vanilla with a mixer at medium speed until creamy.<br /><br />Add flour, ground coffee, 2 tablespoons water and salt, beating until combined.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Add remaining 1 tablespoon of water, if needed. Roll dough into 24 balls. Place balls 1 inch apart on a large ungreased baking sheet. Place pecanson dough balls, pressing to adhere.</div><br />4. Bake until bottoms of cookies are lightly browned, 20 to 25 minutes. Let cool on pan for 5 minutes. Remove from pan and let cool completely on a wire rack. Garnish with confectioners’ sugar, if desired. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="im"><b>FUN PROMOTION FROM Community Coffee..</b> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="im">Now thru September select bags and boxes of <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.communitycoffee.com&source=gmail&ust=1472410950971000&usg=AFQjCNHwYYba3AXM8scZo7GRVYwnAedGHQ" href="http://www.communitycoffee.com/" target="_blank">Community</a>® coffee will feature on-pack game codes that can be entered online at <b><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://tailgatetraditions.com/register.aspx?AspxAutoDetectCookieSupport%3D1&source=gmail&ust=1472410950971000&usg=AFQjCNE5t0FZmjnQ074aw__ElBV_sUgGNw" href="http://tailgatetraditions.com/register.aspx?AspxAutoDetectCookieSupport=1" target="_blank">TailgateTraditions.com</a></b> for a chance to win. Prizes include an <b>all-expense-paid trip to Houston for the Big Game</b>, outdoor grills, flat screen TVs, <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.southwest.com/&source=gmail&ust=1472410950971000&usg=AFQjCNEQNxwc2-nt1-UifKH_o0kZkV88Mw" href="https://www.southwest.com/" target="_blank">Southwest</a> gift cards and more.</span></div><span class="im"><br /></span><span class="im">While I received some coffee in exchange for the post, all opinions are truly my own. </span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="im">I am thankful for the opportunity to combine two of my favorite things coffee + football + baking</span></div><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-68776042964879235732016-08-27T15:22:00.000-04:002016-08-27T15:22:33.081-04:00National Parks... <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q1PuTHYK4KM/V1yVTP18pNI/AAAAAAAAGN4/6SPK6TCjmtY-ZOq2qbm7Kt97AulnZ6fmACLcB/s1600/SimplySouthernGirlYellowstone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q1PuTHYK4KM/V1yVTP18pNI/AAAAAAAAGN4/6SPK6TCjmtY-ZOq2qbm7Kt97AulnZ6fmACLcB/s400/SimplySouthernGirlYellowstone.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />In honor of my post about our time at Yellowstone & Grand Tetons, I would be amiss if I didn't mention the National Park Service turns 100 years old in 2016 (this year) and they are inviting everyone to the party! On 16 days in '16, all National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to everyone!!!!<br /><br />Now with that being said there are over <a href="https://www.nps.gov/findapark/index.htm">400 National Sites</a>, (monuments & parks) and only <a href="https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/fee-free-parks-state.htm">127 of these, </a>currently charge a fee; the other parks/sites are currently free all the time (though it is always nice to make a donation when you visit) During the 16 days, they will offer a fee waiver that will include entrance fees, commercial tour fees, and transportation entrance fees. Other fees such as reservation, camping, tours, concession and fees collected by third parties are not included unless stated otherwise. <br /><div><br /></div><div>Mark your calendar for these entrance fee–free dates in 2016: <br /><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li><b>January 18:</b> Martin Luther King Jr. Day</li><li><b>April 16 through 24:</b> <a href="https://www.nps.gov/findapark/national-park-week.htm" id="CP___PAGEID=4898067,national-park-week.htm,30104|">National Park Week</a></li><li><b>August 25 through 28:</b> National Park Service Birthday</li><li><b>September 24:</b> National Public Lands Day<br /></li><li><b>November 11:</b> <a href="https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/military-honor.htm" id="CP___PAGEID=5088254,/planyourvisit/military-honor.htm,30500|">Veterans Day</a></li></ul><div><br /></div><div>I feel the need to state that National Parks are always an economical option when looking at travel, as entrance fees that range from $3 to $30. While the Mister and I don't have kids, while researching for this post I learned that any fourth grade student can get a free annual pass through the Every Kid in a Park program, and active duty military and citizens with a permanent disability can also get free passes. For more information about the variety of discounted passes available, please visit the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/passes.htm" id="CP___PAGEID=5088565,/planyourvisit/passes.htm,30500|">America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass page</a>.<br /><br /></div><div></div><div>With so many options for parks to visit, I can't wait to hear where you go? do you have a favorite park? or favorite trip? I'd love to hear about it?<br /><br />next on our list: Glacier Bay, Grand Canyon & National Park of American Samoa ...<br /><br /></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EcDoEtXttv4/V1yVU3Ysa6I/AAAAAAAAGOA/36DWLWI3fT465McMUW7xJxePAM5pQnGiwCKgB/s1600/SimplySouthernGirlWindCaveNationalPark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EcDoEtXttv4/V1yVU3Ysa6I/AAAAAAAAGOA/36DWLWI3fT465McMUW7xJxePAM5pQnGiwCKgB/s400/SimplySouthernGirlWindCaveNationalPark.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br />above is another one of our favorite parks thus far. Great wildlife & hiking trails.. </div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-16103513053734271192016-08-24T15:16:00.000-04:002016-08-27T15:24:44.118-04:00Coffee + Football- a few of my favorite thingsIf you know me, you know I love coffee. And being from New Orleans originally I have an affinity for a <a href="http://www.communitycoffee.com/">Community Coffee</a>, so when they reached out to see if I would be interested in partnering with them for some samples it was a no brainier! However, I opt'd to do something a bit different with the samples- I opt'd to try some of the amazing recipes from their website. <br /><br />The first recipe, I had to try was the Southwestern Snack Mix. This is perfect for a tailgate, or even a fall snack. It was a huge hit with the mister, and is sure to be on repeat this fall <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jkc2a6FF3Cs/V8Hli9EumMI/AAAAAAAAGS8/YouBIHkq_RET_Teq2vxUWZC4pYN1t9xywCLcB/s1600/SnakMix616JOH.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jkc2a6FF3Cs/V8Hli9EumMI/AAAAAAAAGS8/YouBIHkq_RET_Teq2vxUWZC4pYN1t9xywCLcB/s400/SnakMix616JOH.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>INGREDIENTS </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">4 cups Corn cereal squares</div><br />4 cups Small pretzel twists<br /><br />2 cups Bite-size Cheddar cheese crackers<br /><br />2 cups Roasted salted peanuts<br /><br />1⁄2 cup Unsalted butter, melted<br /><br />2 tbsps. Community® House Blend coffee, ground<br /><br />1 tbsp. Sugar<br /><br />2 tsps. Chili powder<br /><br />1⁄2 tsp. Salt<br /><br />1⁄2 tsp. Ground cumin<br /><br />1⁄4 tsp. Ground red pepper<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><b>DIRECTIONS</b><br />1. Preheat oven to 250°.<br /><br />2. In a large bowl, combine corn cereal, pretzels, cheese crackers and peanuts. In a small bowl, whisk together<br /><br />melted butter, ground coffee, sugar, chili powder, salt, cumin and red pepper. Pour over cereal mixture and<br /><br />toss well to coat. Spread mixture on a large rimmed baking sheet.<br /><br />3. Bake until warm, about 20 minutes, stirring twice. Let cool completely. <br /><br />Now if you know me, you know I am also a huge football fan. Being raised a Saints Fan, by dad taught be early on the importance of team loyalty, tailgating, and of course the rules of football. This came in handy when attending Florida State University. With this being said when I found out <span class="im">now thru September, Community Coffee would be hosting their </span><span class="im">annual <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.tailgatetraditions.com/&source=gmail&ust=1472410950971000&usg=AFQjCNEl6YQucqnYa9xAbaD4EJprv7WUmQ" href="http://www.tailgatetraditions.com/" target="_blank">Tailgate Traditions</a><b> </b>sweepstakes, the decision to share became a no brainer. </span><br /><br /><span class="im">So simply put now thru September select bags and boxes of <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.communitycoffee.com&source=gmail&ust=1472410950971000&usg=AFQjCNHwYYba3AXM8scZo7GRVYwnAedGHQ" href="http://www.communitycoffee.com/" target="_blank">Community</a>® coffee will feature on-pack game codes that can be entered online at <b><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://tailgatetraditions.com/register.aspx?AspxAutoDetectCookieSupport%3D1&source=gmail&ust=1472410950971000&usg=AFQjCNE5t0FZmjnQ074aw__ElBV_sUgGNw" href="http://tailgatetraditions.com/register.aspx?AspxAutoDetectCookieSupport=1" target="_blank">TailgateTraditions.com</a></b> for a chance to win. Prizes include an <b>all-expense-paid trip to Houston for the Big Game</b>, outdoor grills, flat screen TVs, <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.southwest.com/&source=gmail&ust=1472410950971000&usg=AFQjCNEQNxwc2-nt1-UifKH_o0kZkV88Mw" href="https://www.southwest.com/" target="_blank">Southwest</a> gift cards and more.</span><br /><span class="im"><br /></span><span class="im">So while I received some coffee in exchange for the post, all opinions are truly my own. I am thankful for the opportunity to combine two of my favorite things coffee + football, and look forward to posting about the other recipe I tried, the Browned Butter Pecan Cookies that are currently in the oven this week! </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-29267540731206466572016-07-10T12:00:00.000-04:002016-07-10T12:00:02.534-04:00Closet Refresh Part 2<b>Assuming you have already read <a href="http://www.simplysoutherngirl.com/2016/07/closet-refresh-part-one.html">Closet refresh part one</a>, and are prepped for the job ahead, and yes I am going to call it a "job" becuase lets be honest us it is a tall task- especially if you are embarking on it after sometime. Let's rump into the actual assessment. </b><br /><br /><ul><li>Set up an area for keep, donate, sell, alter/update and trash/recycle. Some will tell you to use bags, I like to use piles so I can access what I am putting in each along the way. I also like to have a pad of paper and one side is shopping list/ the other alterations</li><li>Start with a sort pulling out items that you "LOVE" the go to items that you wear on repeat, and wish you had bought two of. Access these items, are they in good condition, will they be something you will continue to wear net season? As yourself if I could only keep 10/15 things from my closet to wear on repeat what would those be?- these are the items you keep and can place back into your closet</li><li>Now we move to the remainder of the items in your closet using some questions to guide you. </li><ul><li>When accessing occasion items - honestly ask yourself- Will I wear it again? I find this works better than the age old question of "Have I worn it in the last 6 months" Meaning that black dress you bought for a gala, that still fits, but it is sitting in your closet is a timely dress and would work well for a future wedding or charity event. So keep it. On the flip side if you find yourself thinking "this dress would work if I loose weight" or "it doesn't really fit great, but ___ event was a blast, and I received complements on the dress " that is a no go.. place the dress in a sell/donate pile</li><li>When accessing the day to day.. try on the garments you are unsure of and ask yourself. </li><ul><li>Does this garment feel good on me? </li><li>Do I receive compliments on this item? </li><li>Is it comfortable? </li><li> if you are like me and own several similar items - is the most flattering/best quality of the xx number of black sweaters I own.. </li><li>What is the cost of upkeep of this item. Meaning does it require regular dry cleaning? is it worth it? Sometimes the effort of hand washing/price of dry cleaning is simply not worth it. Note I use this filter for my day to day clothing, and not for occasion items. </li></ul></ul></ul><b>Ok you have gotten thru the hardest part and by now likely have significant piles of keep, <a href="http://www.tradesy.com/invite/simplysoutherngirlgmailcom-d-60338?utm_source=RFL&utm_content=RFL0001_60338&utm_medium=link">sell</a>/donate, tailor/update & recycle/trash.... Things to think about to further assess each file. </b><br /><ul><li>KEEP- does each item in the keep pile coordinate with 2-3 other garment in your closet, or will they require you to add items to your shop list? If you can think I would wear this skirt with xy&z then it is still a keep. </li><li>Sentimental/must keep but won't wear items- Set a limit for yourself. for me it is one plastic tub for my husband and I- in the tub we have my high school letter jacket, cheer uniform, my husbands late dads army jacket, etc, etc. When accessing if I need to keep an item I think would a photo work? What will I do with the item in the future? etc. Only you can set this boundries for yourself. My advice is to focus on the sentimental importance of the item, and not look at cost of the garment. Meaning that pricey Tiffany necklace I received for high school graduation. While I could argue I need to keep it, it is a go- I have photos with the item, but my tastes have changed and it is now collecting dust- it could have a new life in rotation in another persons wardorbe.. </li><li>CANT DECIDE- you can access this two ways. I typically will hang the item back in my closet on a backwards hanger. Personally setting an "expiration date" for the item. Meaning if I wear it and place it back in my closet within 6 months the hanger will go back to normal and it is a keep - added to the rotation of my wardrobe. If 6 month comes and it is still hanging on that backwards hanger it is a go no questions asked. </li><ul><li>I have also had friends place a twisty tie on the hanger with an actually expiration date </li></ul></ul><b>Sell/ Donate/Recycle </b><br /><ul><li>Sell- I am a big fan of uploading items in good quality to <a href="http://www.tradesy.com/invite/simplysoutherngirlgmailcom-d-60338?utm_source=RFL&utm_content=RFL0001_60338&utm_medium=link">Tradsey</a>, not only does this allow me to get a few bucks back from my purchases, I can then use the money towards purchasing new items for my closet. I only upload new and/or gently used items to my closet. I like the site as it allows me to upload various photos of each item and include a description. The site allows me to set the price, but does suggest one based off price paid, and other similar items listed. Once sold the site allows me to ship the item with a printable label or allows me to have a shipping kit sent to me for use complete with label, box/bag, etc. I receive 91% of the purchase as site credit. I can also choose to withdraw 88% of the purchase price to my checking account. </li><ul><li>There are a few other sites some of my friends use </li><ul><li>Poshmark- This has more users than Tradsey. But only gives 80% of sales on items more than $15 & takes $2.95 on items less than $15. Since the madjority of what I sell is over $15 I didn't find this to be as beneficial. </li><li><a href="https://www.therealreal.com/">TheRealReal</a> - I have not sold on this site, but have purchased from it. You send your item to the company, they photograph and price, and list. They take 60% of the sale. This is a site for designer clothes/bags, etc. </li><li>Ebay, Thredup are two that I have minimal experience with but are also good options. </li></ul></ul><li> Donate-</li><ul><li>I suggest donating to a charity you have researched or support. I personally donate to the local <a href="http://refugehouse.com/">Refuge House</a>, a shelter and agency for victims of domestic violence and there families.</li><li>If you have items that are not in good condition you can drop them at your local Goodwill and label them recyle. They will sell them off to a textile recycler who will give the fibers a new life in a different form (think insulation, or carpet padding) Let the person know at drop off that the items aren't good for resale. </li><li>Old Shoes- I drop mine at a Nike store. you can bring up to 10 pairs at a time and drop them at the store. They will take the rubber and fabric from the shoes and use it for playground surfaces or recycled Nike shoes. Learn more about the program <a href="http://www.nike.com/us/en_us/c/sustainability">here</a> </li></ul></ul><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-34050767761908500852016-07-09T15:51:00.001-04:002016-07-09T15:52:02.286-04:00Closet Refresh - part one.... Having worked in retail for the past 17 years, I often get asked about the staple pieces one should have in their wardrobe, what what I suggest for cleaning/purging of ones closet.<br /><br />My honest opinion, is most people often already own great basics, and have a grasp on the pieces and fits that work best for them; the issue is the challenge is to find those pieces amongst the stuff that you "kinda like." I have found that consumers often purchase pieces that "kinda of work" becuase they are a "bargain" and then they have trouble pruging those items due to the fact they spent their hard earned money on those items. Truth be told I aim to use the filter of quality over quantity in my shopping. I find that quality will last longer than the shock of the price.<br /><br />So let's get started on my process of wardrobe purging. I am to complete a major closet purge twice a year. Typically July/August after spring summer, and then again in January/February after fall/winter. I aim to keep items I truly love, and that work for me. From there I sell items that are not working on <a href="https://www.tradesy.com/closet/simplysoutherngirl/">Tradesy</a>. You can shop my closet from the prior link, and if you are looking to join click <a href="http://www.tradesy.com/invite/simplysoutherngirlgmailcom-d-60338?utm_source=RFL&utm_content=RFL0001_60338&utm_medium=link">here</a>, by signing up thru the link you will receive a $20 shop credit (pending time of signing up, as this post will live past the promotion)<br /><br /><b>Set yourself up for success.. </b><br /><ul><li>Open mind- you have to be open to the process, and enter knowing you will be purging and that the goal is not to keep everything. We must let some of the emotional attachment to items go, and only keep pieces that are right for our body and overall wardrobe</li><li>Full length mirror- This one is a biggie for me. In an effort to be honest with ourselves we must often try on some of our garments to see how they fit, are they flattering, etc. </li><li>Nude undergarments- ok this goes with the above. I suggest wearing your most basic undergarments the day of the purge so when trying on pieces, you don't find yourself, defaulting to well if I was wearing a different bra, or I can't tell with these floral panties.. etc </li><li>A plan!- I suggest doing the closet one day, the dresser one day, and then shoes, bags, and accessories on another day. Some people suggest doing it all in one day, but truly I find that overwhelming, and find that when I do it all in one day I tend to get rid of less.. </li><ul><li>in addition to the above plan. It is important to do all of a category at once. I start with dresses, move to skirts, then tops, sweaters, etc. If you are one that keeps items in more than one closet or dresser- you will want to pull everything out and arrange by category so you can get the full picture of what you actually own/need. This allows you too access things individually ie: How many black dresses do I need? Why do I own xx number of black sweaters, etc. </li></ul><li>Last but not least someone to keep you honest. This can be a friend or spouse who will join you for the process, or who will check in with you during the process to check in. This person can assist with an honest opinion, a positive attitude and even a glass of wine along the way. This person should be someone whose opinion you value and who understands your sense of style.. </li></ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-48371654801820865622016-06-11T19:50:00.000-04:002016-06-11T19:52:26.488-04:00Grand Teton National Park & Jackson Hole<br />Chris and I embarked on a roadtrip adventure of MN, SD, ND, WY, MT, NE & ID and my upcoming posts will highlight our adventures thru these states, and share some of our favorites stops, sites and of course food options!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9gsh8I-jAp4/V1ybaiGOXlI/AAAAAAAAGOg/NJBWid28-dM18LU_aTGi9nXQLCKEyPauwCLcB/s1600/SimplySouthernGirlGrandTeton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9gsh8I-jAp4/V1ybaiGOXlI/AAAAAAAAGOg/NJBWid28-dM18LU_aTGi9nXQLCKEyPauwCLcB/s400/SimplySouthernGirlGrandTeton.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Named for the largest of its three signature peaks, <a href="https://www.nps.gov/grte/index.htm" target="new">Grand Teton National Park</a> also contains lakes, forest and a section of the Snake River. In my opinion, Grant Teton is one of, if not the most striking and memorable locations I have visited in the United states thus far. At every turn there is a picturesque landscape, and I found myself overwhelmed with images I could look at for years to come.<br /><br />Grand Teton National Park is located in northwestern Wyoming; north of the town of Jackson, Wyoming and south of Yellowstone National Park. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/directions.htm">Route suggestions are given on the website</a> from Salt Lake City and Denver, along with shuttle service information and a list of nearby airports. We entered from Yellowstone, and due to road closures entered late at night.<br /><br /><b>Where to stay: </b><br /><b> </b>Grand Teton offers <a href="https://www.nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/lodging.htm">various options </a>for those wanted to stay in the park<b>.</b> There are also multiple hotel options just outside the park. I recommend <a href="http://www.hotelterrajacksonhole.com/?NCK=8557384959&gclid=CNCwkNqNoc0CFVglgQod6UgHuw">Hotel Terra </a>in Jackson, Wyoming. We were able to find a great price online prior to visiting.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ut-n9yMB4U0/V1yc64uEv7I/AAAAAAAAGPE/zrsYj-Q37Gkz1B1tOycRIgzP0ONS_EWbACLcB/s1600/SimplySouthernGirlHotelTerra2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ut-n9yMB4U0/V1yc64uEv7I/AAAAAAAAGPE/zrsYj-Q37Gkz1B1tOycRIgzP0ONS_EWbACLcB/s400/SimplySouthernGirlHotelTerra2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Why we loved it: The hotel is<a href="http://www.hotelterrajacksonhole.com/eco-facts.aspx"> eco-hotel </a>is LEED certified & they make it easy for guests to "go green as well" They offered great service, and were conveniently located to everything we wanted to see/do. The hotel had a great spa, spacious rooms, soaking tubs and C enjoyed the technology features- such as the interactive screen in each room. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MOuQyEu6U7s/V1yc7HnoibI/AAAAAAAAGPI/pqoZC6P1aR4ZtATGZgtmC-zidJ1qPIAPQCLcB/s1600/SimplySouthernGirlhotelTerra3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MOuQyEu6U7s/V1yc7HnoibI/AAAAAAAAGPI/pqoZC6P1aR4ZtATGZgtmC-zidJ1qPIAPQCLcB/s320/SimplySouthernGirlhotelTerra3.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pveWtXTDnCk/V1yc67hacXI/AAAAAAAAGPM/e8fh7UNtiCk2AO7aDTF3erq2a8Fk3EUfgCLcB/s1600/simplysoutherngirlHotelTerra.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pveWtXTDnCk/V1yc67hacXI/AAAAAAAAGPM/e8fh7UNtiCk2AO7aDTF3erq2a8Fk3EUfgCLcB/s320/simplysoutherngirlHotelTerra.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>Places to eat:</b><br /><span style="font-size: small;">Spur Restaurant & Bar- </span>welcoming fireplace, a lively bar, and free-range meat options! <br /><span style="font-size: small;">Mangy Moose- great patio, </span><span style="font-size: small;">eclectic vibe, we went for dinner </span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">Rendez-vous Bistro- the </span>grilled Ahi tuna was amazing as were they lettuce wraps. They have a varied menu, and we could see why the hotel suggested this as a local favorite. <br /><span style="font-size: small;">Snake River Brewery & Restaurant - we went for a beer, and stayed for dinner. We both opt'd for </span>wood fired pizzas but they also have pastas, sandwiches, soups, & salads.<br /><b><br /></b><b>Things to do:</b><br />Jackson Hole offered a ton to do in the winter, and we look forward to going back in the summer to check out the farmer’s market (Saturday mornings) the weekly live concerts (held at the Snow King resort, and the Jackson Hole Rodeo (every Saturday and Wednesday evening)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LzptP856hhE/V1yfTcnEF0I/AAAAAAAAGPs/E-Klvj2OLzQ7KDoz92bTygq3txVxZ6PcACKgB/s1600/GrandTeton1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LzptP856hhE/V1yfTcnEF0I/AAAAAAAAGPs/E-Klvj2OLzQ7KDoz92bTygq3txVxZ6PcACKgB/s320/GrandTeton1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The town square offers shopping, nightlife, and dinning. Jackson Hole is known as a home to some of the nation's best wildlife, and I already mentioned the views in the park- In my option the prior lends itself to amazing local artwork & photography. Chris and I spend hours wandering thru the galleries & spend a considerable amount of time at the National Museum of Wildlife Art (I am still wishing we bought a few pieces for the cabin)<br /><br />On my list for our next visit: <br /><a href="https://www.fws.gov/refuge/national_elk_refuge/">National Elk Refuge</a>, <br /><a href="http://gtmf.org/about/">The Grand Teton Music Festival</a> or Concert at <a href="http://eventful.com/tetonvillage/venues/walk-festival-hall-/V0-001-005898351-8">Walk Festival Hall </a><b></b><br />summer visit- a hot air balloon ride, or horse back tour of Grand Teton & surrounding areas<br />Winter visit- a snowshoe/snowmobiling/dogsledding adventure<br /><br />all of the above have various options for tours and rentals.. <br /><br /><b>More on Grand Teton:</b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aZfTIojDcFE/V1ybaw-SuMI/AAAAAAAAGPA/D1_9eoM1CU8Q7Yjuv9_zBsHqO-EvuMVVACKgB/s1600/SimplySoutherngirlGrandTeton4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aZfTIojDcFE/V1ybaw-SuMI/AAAAAAAAGPA/D1_9eoM1CU8Q7Yjuv9_zBsHqO-EvuMVVACKgB/s400/SimplySoutherngirlGrandTeton4.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>To be candid the weather conditions on our trip didn't allow for us to do a ton in the park other than hike (and we were ok with that knowing we would be back) The snow allowed for us to capture some truly beautiful images, engage in a snowball fight, craft mini-snowmen, and hike while staying cool! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ll0ijHobtE4/V1yba2Znf3I/AAAAAAAAGPA/iBwRADTOciIVLLHwjC37W1NKxx-cMscfwCKgB/s1600/simplySoutherngirlGrandTeton3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="139" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ll0ijHobtE4/V1yba2Znf3I/AAAAAAAAGPA/iBwRADTOciIVLLHwjC37W1NKxx-cMscfwCKgB/s640/simplySoutherngirlGrandTeton3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />We are already planning our next trip back, and thanks to the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/things2do.htm">Park Activites</a> & <a href="https://www.nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/calendar.htm">Park Calendar </a>, we are looking forward to many of the things the park has to offer.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p7OeU8zzsz8/V1yfTvb4saI/AAAAAAAAGPg/kscC-1Q8c281tNA24CAmAQtOHKufWWTewCLcB/s1600/grandteton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p7OeU8zzsz8/V1yfTvb4saI/AAAAAAAAGPg/kscC-1Q8c281tNA24CAmAQtOHKufWWTewCLcB/s640/grandteton.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />For those that have been.. do you have a favorite time to visit? Do you have things we need to add to our to do list when we return? Do you have any favorite restaurants? Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-53063764728193513442016-06-11T19:05:00.001-04:002016-06-11T19:05:28.084-04:0050 before 50 -Visit the States Project! <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xZFTx6Th3Ac/V1yZHm0n06I/AAAAAAAAGOU/jorP7GoiUXUdHiQwVOOZGQEMVEfRMZzSgCLcB/s1600/SimplySouthernGirlDartmoth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xZFTx6Th3Ac/V1yZHm0n06I/AAAAAAAAGOU/jorP7GoiUXUdHiQwVOOZGQEMVEfRMZzSgCLcB/s400/SimplySouthernGirlDartmoth.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />For those who have followed me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/simplysoutherngirl/">Insta </a>for sometime, you know the Mister and I have embarked on a quest to visit all 50 states together before we reach 50. (we are both very close individually as well) Some of our trips are to individual states, while others are grand adventure type trips where we work to conquer several states at a time. No for those asking to we have rules that we must follow for a trip to count- of course!<br /><br />1. You must spend 48 hours in the state<br />2. You must have one sleep in the state<br />3. Layovers of anykind do not count as time spent in the state<br />4. You must have 2 meals in the state.<br /><br />No bear in mind the above are the minimums and may of our trips are days or even weeks in a state as we strive to truly see and experience all that the state has to offer. We also strive to never try to "do it all" while we are there, traveling with the mentality that we will be back.<br /><br />We will reach 40 states together this summer, and as we work to nail down plans for our final 10, and talk to friends, family and even those we meet at work we are finding more and more people are interested in our travels. Where have we been? Where are we planning to go? Where are our favorite spots? Where would we go back? We have even been asked to help plan trips for friends/strangers and have gladly accepted (it is like virtually traveling back to location) But <strike>we </strike> I got to thinking why not share our travels on the blog, and take my readers along with us on our travels......<br /><br />I would also love to hear from you. What are your favorite travel spots? Where are your favorite restaurants? hotels? etc... Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-3545645965185273432016-03-21T21:17:00.001-04:002016-03-21T21:17:39.810-04:00The Flower Workshop<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z23-uoCDFok/VvCZ2SR76dI/AAAAAAAAGJY/8H4LXSo6qI4JxBUAmYroT9xkywBfxDZMw/s1600/image003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z23-uoCDFok/VvCZ2SR76dI/AAAAAAAAGJY/8H4LXSo6qI4JxBUAmYroT9xkywBfxDZMw/s320/image003.jpg" width="254" /></a></div><br />If you follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/simplysoutherngirl/">instagram,</a> you know I have a love of flowers! I always say, I would have fresh flowers in every room, every day if I won the lottery! If you have been following for a while, you know that I sometimes help out at a friends flower shop, <a href="http://hillyfieldsflorist.com/">Hilly Fields Florist.</a><br /><br />With the prior stated, it will come as no surprise that when I was asked if I wanted to review a book titled, <b><i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Flower-Workshop-Arranging-Branches-Materials/dp/1607747650/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1458609200&sr=8-1&keywords=the+flower+workshop">The Flower Workshop: Lessons in Arranging Blooms, Branches, Fruits, and Foraged Materials, by Riella Chezar,</a> </i></b>I jumped at the opportunity! I have <i><b>thoroughly</b></i> enjoyed flipping thru each and every page of this book, and can't wait to have the time to give some of the arrangements/wreaths a try!<br /><br /><div class="MsoNormal">RIELLA CHEZAR is the author of <i>Flowers for the Table</i> and a master floral designer whose work has graced the covers and pages of <i>Martha Stewart Living</i>, <i>O Magazine</i>, <i>Smitten</i>, <i>Sunset</i>, <i>Garden</i> <i>Design</i>, <i>Better Homes and Gardens</i>, <i>Domino</i>, <i>Real Simple</i>, <i>Sweet Paul</i>, and many more. She is a teacher at FlowerSchool New York and has designed flower arrangements for the White House. You can read more about her work at <a href="http://www.ariellaflowers.com/" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: none;">www.ariellaflowers.com</span></a>. I am truly inspired by her beautiful works. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">So far some of my favorites that I have dog-eared to try are below. When I give them a try I will be sure to post.. But until then, I will just glance at these photos to remind myself I need to carve out time to give them a try- becuase they sure our beautiful! </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">ps. I am thinking the wreath is totally doable for a summer party , and that tablescape is just divine for a bridal shower! </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rEA1kLHUa7Q/VvCblp77SrI/AAAAAAAAGJw/xIksfDPXbA0myNihgdY2VzMALvHIw_LoQ/s1600/062_Chez_9781607747659_art_r1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rEA1kLHUa7Q/VvCblp77SrI/AAAAAAAAGJw/xIksfDPXbA0myNihgdY2VzMALvHIw_LoQ/s320/062_Chez_9781607747659_art_r1.jpg" width="213" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_VWCB54SIWQ/VvCbkTj3I_I/AAAAAAAAGJo/I8yvCEp81EQu1XyfpVeyr9jsmSFDvhtQQ/s1600/107_Chez_9781607747659_art_r1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_VWCB54SIWQ/VvCbkTj3I_I/AAAAAAAAGJo/I8yvCEp81EQu1XyfpVeyr9jsmSFDvhtQQ/s320/107_Chez_9781607747659_art_r1.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gXUmaQpnEk4/VvCbjTrJTeI/AAAAAAAAGJk/OnYVHwJqIOgIfJJ9hmmXKAT1jRZM0f43A/s1600/Chezar_The%2BFlower%2BWorkshop_Citrus%2BWreath%2B6_Photo%2BCredit%2BErin%2BKunkel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gXUmaQpnEk4/VvCbjTrJTeI/AAAAAAAAGJk/OnYVHwJqIOgIfJJ9hmmXKAT1jRZM0f43A/s320/Chezar_The%2BFlower%2BWorkshop_Citrus%2BWreath%2B6_Photo%2BCredit%2BErin%2BKunkel.jpg" width="213" /> </a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qrZ2lT8qRnM/VvCbl8kjvAI/AAAAAAAAGJs/8p9kStsxXSkhgw7HQWlDieYINjIU8Ckiw/s1600/Page117FlowerWorkshop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qrZ2lT8qRnM/VvCbl8kjvAI/AAAAAAAAGJs/8p9kStsxXSkhgw7HQWlDieYINjIU8Ckiw/s320/Page117FlowerWorkshop.jpg" width="253" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="tx" style="border-width: 0 0 5pt 29pt; height: 11pt; top: 121.8pt; width: 144.9pt;">Note photos in this post are Reprinted with permission from </span><span class="tx f63" style="border-width: 0 0 5pt 0; height: 11pt; left: 172.9pt; top: 121.8pt; width: 96.8pt;">The Flower Workshop</span><span class="tx" style="border-width: 0 42pt 5pt 0; height: 11pt; left: 269.7pt; top: 121.8pt; width: 172.2pt;">, by Ariella Chezar with Julie Michaels, </span><span class="tx" style="border-width: 0 44pt 5pt 29pt; height: 11pt; top: 137.3pt; width: 411.7pt;">copyright © 2016, published by Ten Speed Press, an imprint of Penguin Random House LLC. </span><span class="tx" style="border-width: 0 249pt 17pt 29pt; height: 11pt; top: 152.7pt; width: 206.5pt;">Photographs copyright © 2016 by Erin Kunkel</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="tx" style="border-width: 0 249pt 17pt 29pt; height: 11pt; top: 152.7pt; width: 206.5pt;">I was compensated with a free copy of the book in exchange for this post but the views are all my own. </span> </div><div class="MsoNormal"> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-8616721203722231122016-01-05T00:31:00.003-05:002016-01-05T00:31:40.393-05:00New Years Resolutions & 2015 Relfections.. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zmebS67GyAc/VotEjrHg5aI/AAAAAAAAGDQ/rtpthdXXPFE/s1600/12471560_10107065007460263_4149262363438540671_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zmebS67GyAc/VotEjrHg5aI/AAAAAAAAGDQ/rtpthdXXPFE/s320/12471560_10107065007460263_4149262363438540671_o.jpg" width="282" /></a></div><br />Each January, roughly one in three Americans resolve to better themselves in some way. A much smaller percentage of people actually make good on those resolutions. While about 75% of people stick to their goals for at least a week, less than half (46%) are still on target six months later, a 2002 study found. (says google at least) So why make the resolutions in the first place? Good intentions? jumping on the band wagon? or perhaps "becuase we are supposed to"<br /><br />Rather than resolutions I tent to make goals of for the year.. Typically I do these on my birthday, taking time to reflect on things I'd like to accomplish, try, or start before my next birthday... This year life was crazy busy, and I didn't carve out that time to reflect, so here I sit a few days into the near year carving out time to jot down goals... I however, find myself reflecting back on 2015, and all the blessings in my life..<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lejjUqbVYfQ/VotHcC8A0dI/AAAAAAAAGDc/C5kYva6NPLw/s1600/10923216_10105663519403563_1330363732908816060_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lejjUqbVYfQ/VotHcC8A0dI/AAAAAAAAGDc/C5kYva6NPLw/s200/10923216_10105663519403563_1330363732908816060_n.jpg" width="200" /></a> I was able to kick off my volunteering year with a trip to the beach to host a retreat! I feel blessed to entire my 10th year advising Alpha Chi Omega at FSU. I can't believe it has been a DECADE.. (that makes me feel old) Following the retreat, the mister suprised me and showed up to help back up my car, and brought the pup along for a short walk on the beach and lunch before returning home. (blessing - found a passion I enjoy-volunteering! double blessing-I have a husband who is supportive of my volunteering)<br /><br />I was humbled to be <a href="http://www.simplysoutherngirl.com/2015/11/supporting-dva-domestic-violence.html">recognized by the local Refuge House</a> for my volunteering with them. Truly I was in shock, I showed up to an event to support and volunteer and the net thing you know they were handing me a plaque (blessing- being able to support those in need! double blessing- being recognized for my efforts)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BOetCEYE1tk/VotHmNlIJ-I/AAAAAAAAGDo/6Yb8RmLh1UA/s1600/11206565_10106166352332343_3293332725724668428_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BOetCEYE1tk/VotHmNlIJ-I/AAAAAAAAGDo/6Yb8RmLh1UA/s320/11206565_10106166352332343_3293332725724668428_o.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>I was able to travel to a work conference in Vegas, and the mister joined me for 2 days and we saw Britney Spears (ok some might not call that second part a blessing) But for me I feel blessed each and every day for working for a company that I believe in, and a company that values me, believes in me, and continues to invest in me.. .and yes I also feel blessed I was able to see B Spears perform again, and that my husband went with me (yes I know I owe him)<br /><br />I was able to host several events at my home to celebrate friends, my favorite was this <a href="http://www.simplysoutherngirl.com/2015/05/blog-post.html">Monogram & Mimosa shower</a>, each event was unique. But each event was a celebration on a milestone! I am thankful to have a house, the mister and I have made a home, and blessed to be able to make it our own each and every day!<br /><br />Nothing brought this feeling of being blessed more home, than the volunteer work I was able to do this year in my hometown on New Orleans. First I was selected to attend Alpha Chi Omega's Global Service Initiatives project with Collegians traveling to Jamacia and alumnae to New Orleans. I blogged about the adventure <a href="http://www.simplysoutherngirl.com/2015/04/dare-to-dream.html">here</a>, <a href="http://www.simplysoutherngirl.com/2015/04/it-is-not-about-you.html">here</a>, and <a href="http://www.simplysoutherngirl.com/2015/04/every-difference-makes-difference.html">here</a>. The event was amazing. I was able to connect with women across the country from various chapters, and of various ages to give back to a community that is close to my heart! I was also able to return to NOLA for the Katrina 10 project leading 250+ volunteers in a day of service in the city!<br /><br />In 2015, I watched my brother in law get married, was a day of wedding planner for 5 weddings, saw my god children, collegiate friends, and family! I traveled to LA to see Ellen and go to Disneyland with C, and travel to Cashiers for a week getway with C... The holidays were busy as always with work, my birthday and Christmas, and this year I layered in a trip to NY with my dad to celebrate the death of my Grandma...<br /><br />Wowzer, what a year! I have so many blessings in my life, my cup runs over.. Family, Friends and Health. Travel, work and fun! 2015 was quite a year! and those 34th year goals- well I did pretty well on them! So tonight, I go to bed thankful for a full year and happy heart! Goal setting will have to wait until tomorrow! Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-10271401281021479432016-01-02T22:06:00.000-05:002016-01-02T22:06:13.181-05:00Ted's Montana Grill .. <div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif;">With the New Year approaching, C and I made some resolutions. One of our resolutions was to eat healthier and more adventurous. While I am not the biggest meat eater, the mister is, so I challenged him to switch beef for bison when possible. Bison is a lean, nutritious protein. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif;">So when I was asked by Ted’s Montana Grill if I'd like to try their new menu, the answer was of course a yes! Their menu offers hearty classics prepared with bison to revive authentic American entrees with classic comfort food like Karen’s “Flying-D” Bison Chili, Bison Meatloaf, or a classic burger.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif;">So we made a reservation and headed to Ted's in Tallahassee. We nearly rescheduled, as the weather turned cold and raining, but with crazy Holiday work schedules for the mister and I, we opt'd to brave the weather. In route C was contacted by a highschool friend whom we invited to join. We skipped a traditional appetizer to give the Flying- D Bison Chili and try. We got caught up in catching up and forgot to take a proper photo (blogger mistake) but Chris did capture this instagram photo. The Chili was just what we needed to warm up after braving the elements to get to dinner. </span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ydMkhqGg0FM/VoiMnwztYtI/AAAAAAAAGBs/xEfofKadC5I/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B9.50.50%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ydMkhqGg0FM/VoiMnwztYtI/AAAAAAAAGBs/xEfofKadC5I/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B9.50.50%2BPM.png" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif;">When it came time for the entree. I went with a classic bison burger with fresh cut fries. The entree was filling, so filling I opt'd out of dessert. A good problem to have I'd say! C was ecstatic that they had a bison meatloaf on the menu (he is a sucker for meatloaf) He opt'd for a side of broccoli and mashed potatoes, and raved on how delicious his meal was! </span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W2XYMyuFW88/VoiNqbIOVdI/AAAAAAAAGB4/cwFFvsVKMwY/s1600/burger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W2XYMyuFW88/VoiNqbIOVdI/AAAAAAAAGB4/cwFFvsVKMwY/s320/burger.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vu4oftPkqAQ/VoiO242IcmI/AAAAAAAAGCE/V9hCTjAA35A/s1600/image003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vu4oftPkqAQ/VoiO242IcmI/AAAAAAAAGCE/V9hCTjAA35A/s320/image003.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /> </div></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As always holds true at the Tallahassee Ted's, we had great service, a knowledgeable server and delicious food. C and I also discovered that Ted's has a <a href="https://www.tedsmontanagrill.com/menu_nutrition_calculator.html">Nutrition Calculator </a>online, and had fun planning around with that. While Ted's graciously picked up the tab for our meal in exchange for this post. I can tell you that we will be back in 2016! </div></span><br /><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div></span><br /><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif;"></span><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-18389921695526961352015-11-09T02:06:00.003-05:002016-01-04T23:12:22.434-05:00Supporting DVA_ domestic violence awareness<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Zb-Hk6dUzH0/VPAs-ehr6pI/AAAAAAAAFnw/b7mkKqMe99Q/s640/blogger-image--1225028293.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="http://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Zb-Hk6dUzH0/VPAs-ehr6pI/AAAAAAAAFnw/b7mkKqMe99Q/s320/blogger-image--1225028293.jpg" title="Refuge House- SimplySouthernGirl" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This post is a late coming, but one that I had to give a ton of thought.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I was recently recognized by the local Shelter for Victims of Domestic Violence, <a href="http://refugehouse.com/">Refuge House</a> for my support of the shelter. The recognition came as a total shock, and I was and am still humbled by the recognition. I share not for congratulatory wishes but in the hopes that I will in someway inspire others to give back in their own way to causes important to them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> I had worked a full day and rushed across town to the Alpha Chi Omega chapter house to support the ladies at their Annual Pizza Pie With Alpha Chi Event raising funds for the shelter. Following typically protocol at such events, the ladies silenced the room to thank guests for coming and invited the Refuge House Director of Development to speak. When she asked that I join her at the front of the room, I truly went thinking she would ask me to hold something while she presented. the thought that she would be presenting to me never crossed my mind. She started talking and explaining the support they had received, and still nothing, and then she said my name- I was shocked, humbled and honored... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I share this for several reasons.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">1. I at times wonder if my volunteering makes a difference. Volunteering can be an added item to an already busy calendar, but the answer is a simple YES. If you follow me on <a href="https://instagram.com/simplysoutherngirl/">Instagram</a>, you might of noticed the #hashtag <b>#EveryDifferenceMakesADifference</b> I committed to using this hashtag each time I volunteered in 2015, thus I can always look back and over time see the magnitude of the impact of volunteering. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">2. <b>Be the Change you Wish to See in the World</b>. As someone who works with and volunteers with collegians on a regular basis, I feel it is important to be a role model for them. My mom was and continues to be this role model for me. As I have grown my friend, co-workers and fellow Alpha Chi Omega Sisters continue to inspire me. For collegians to see me giving back is important. I strive to never ask others to do something I wouldn't do myself. And I am humbled that the Chapter, friends, and family continually not only support my volunteering efforts, but join them... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div>3. <b>This is an issue I BELIEVE IN. </b>When looking to volunteer it is important to pick a cause you are passionate about, a cause you are committed to, your passion with shine thru in all you do. (or at least that is the goal) As a volunteer who works with collegiate women. I know the statistics of Domestic Violence all to much. (The following statistics were taken from the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 2007) <br /><ul><li>53% of victims of domestic violence were abused by a current or former boyfriend or girlfriend.</li><li>21% of college students report having experienced dating violence by a current partner. 32% experienced dating violence by a pervious partner.</li><li>13% of college women report they were forced to have sex by a dating partner.</li><li>Among college students who were sexually assaulted, 35% of attempted rapes occurred on dates, 22% of threatened rapes occurred on dates, and 12% of completed rapes occurred on dates.</li><li>60% of acquaintance rapes on college campuses occur in casual or steady dating relationships.</li><li>Over 13% of college women report they have been stalked. Of these, 42% were stalked by a boyfriend or ex-boyfriend.</li><li>Nearly one third of college students report having physically assaulted a dating partner in the previous 12 months (Break the Cycle, Inc., 2005).</li><li>As many as one quarter of female students experience sexual assault over the course of their college career (Break the Cycle, Inc., 2005).</li><li>Approximately 90% of victims of sexual assault on college campuses know their attacker (Break the Cycle, Inc., 2005).</li></ul><b>I can't read those statistics and be a bystander.</b><br />College students face a variety of obstacles in accessing services that may assist them in escaping an abusive relationship, or an an abusive situation. With that being said I strive to be a resource and to provide resources both for the shelter, and for the collegians I come in contact with.<br /><ul><li>Students may feel isolated from their personal support networks- I strive to be that support</li><li>Students may fear their parents finding out- I strive to give them the support/resources their parents would want to provide them, and strive to give them the strength to tell their parents when appropriate</li><li>students cannot afford supportive service. I connect with with campus resources</li><li>students may not define their experience as abusive- I strive to educate on healthy relationships, and to be a role model in my own relationships. </li><li>students feel trapped by the social networks- I strive to provide networking <b>opportunities</b></li></ul>In my opinion nothing I do is "groundbreaking" or "new" and until now I didn't view anything I did as "noteworthy" I looked at the things I did as my duty. I know that to the world I may just be one person, but I have learned that to that one person I may be the world..<br /><br /><b><b>I share to thank Lindsey and the Refuge House for recognizing my efforts. </b> </b><br /><b>I share in hopes of inspiring others to recognize that #EveryDifferenceMakesADifferece</b><br /><b>I share in hope of inspiring others to follow their passion</b><br /><b>I share to shed light on Domestic Violence </b><br /><b>I share in hopes of touching someone and that someone touching someone and so on, and together we can effect change! </b><br /><br /><b><br /></b>If you want to learn more about the local Refuge House click <a href="http://refugehouse.com/">here</a><br />If you are are a victim of Domestic Violence and need help visit <a href="http://www.thehotline.org/">here </a> <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Safety Alert: Computer use can be monitored and is impossible to completely clear. If you are afraid your internet usage might be monitored, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1−800−799−7233 or TTY 1−800−787−3224 instead of clicking the links above</b></div><br /><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-44345141471994331692015-11-08T23:51:00.000-05:002015-11-08T23:51:57.827-05:00Travel... Going back to Nola- French Quarter Edition<div style="text-align: center;">New Orleans is my hometown....</div><div style="text-align: center;">It is my heart, and the city has a resilience and a vibrant culture that is all it's own!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xETRDj8FYzw/VkAXbY1lJnI/AAAAAAAAF9U/f720iqXk_gE/s1600/house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xETRDj8FYzw/VkAXbY1lJnI/AAAAAAAAF9U/f720iqXk_gE/s320/house.jpg" title="New Orleans - French Quarter Shotgun House-photo by SimplySouthernGirl" width="320" /></a></div><br />I have been blessed with several opportunities to return to the city this year... <br /><br />First for the Alumnae Global Services Initiatives trip with Alpha Chi Omega Women's Fraternity.<br />I blogged about my adventures <a href="http://www.simplysoutherngirl.com/2015/04/dare-to-dream.html">here</a>, <a href="http://www.simplysoutherngirl.com/2015/04/it-is-not-about-you.html">here</a>, and <a href="http://www.simplysoutherngirl.com/2015/04/every-difference-makes-difference.html">here</a>.<br /><br />Then I was able to meet the Mister, in the city for a short weekend get away, as he ventured to NOLA for a fraternity brothers wedding, and I flew in to meet him after to spend sometime in the city....<br /><br />And this July, I went back to New Orleans to volunteer for the <a href="http://katrina10.org/">Katrina10</a> initiative. I organized a group of Gap Inc Volunteers to contribute time and talents at a local charter school. It was wonderful to give back to a city that holds a piece of my heart surrounded by co-workers. (more on that in another post) <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1xwl1EJBvnA/VkAXb-1b8DI/AAAAAAAAF-E/-k22iLIABic/s1600/pato.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1xwl1EJBvnA/VkAXb-1b8DI/AAAAAAAAF-E/-k22iLIABic/s320/pato.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Why do I mention all of the above? Well, I keep getting asked my "must do" list for the city by family and friends. I am going to break this down into multiple posts.. I am going to start in the French Quarter with some of my favorite locations.. becuase there is more to the Quarter than <span class="storybody">daiquiri's at Fat Tuesday's, having a hurricane at <a href="http://www.patobriens.com/patobriens/default.asp">Pat O'Brien's (</a>I prefer the Bloody Mary above) or a hand grenade at Tropical Isle. Those these are all quintessential tourist stops. </span><br /><br /><span class="storybody">So what are my favorites.... </span><br /><span class="storybody">If you follow my on <a href="https://instagram.com/simplysoutherngirl/">Intsagram</a>, some of these will not be a surprise as I post about then nearly every trip. </span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vper_NNog5Q/VkAXbfq0rkI/AAAAAAAAF-Q/QskrfHwqidI/s1600/cafep.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vper_NNog5Q/VkAXbfq0rkI/AAAAAAAAF-Q/QskrfHwqidI/s320/cafep.jpg" title="Cafe Pantalba- French Quarter, New Orleans- Photo by SimplySouthernGirl" width="320" /></a></div><span class="storybody">1. <b>Cafe Pantalba- </b>ok this one is special for a few reasons. History. Location. Food. Sentimental. </span><br /><span class="storybody">History- The building was d</span>esigned by the Baroness Pontalba in the 1800s. They were originally built as row houses, & later turned into luxury apartments. the Pontalba Buildings are known as the oldest apartment buildings in the United States. (fun fact the current Mayor and his family live above the restaurant) Cafe Pontalba pays homage to both the history of the buildings and to the food NOLA is known for.<br />Location- historic Jackson Square, <span itemprop="streetAddress">546 St. Peter. Grab a seat, and enjoy the large open windows/doors. I could people watch for hours from this location. You can see the locals, tourists, and artists in the square and if you are lucky will enjoy some local music. </span><br /><span itemprop="streetAddress">Food- </span>They specialize in Creole dishes like Shrimp Creole, crawfish etouffee, and Creole Red Beans and Rice. The restaurant also has great salads, pasta and PoBoys. I usually find myself having etoufee or jambalaya.<br />Sentimental- My mom worked at the restaurant in the 70's (before I was in the picture) Back then the only worked for tips, and it was well worth it according to her.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pQWATpD44G4/VkAXbw83YfI/AAAAAAAAF98/Ah3WyRwRkUc/s1600/jacksonsq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pQWATpD44G4/VkAXbw83YfI/AAAAAAAAF98/Ah3WyRwRkUc/s320/jacksonsq.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b>2. Jackson Square/St. Louis Cathedral- </b>night or day this is one of the most picturesque places in the quarter. <span>Technically , Jackson Square in a historic park. It was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1960. In 2012 the American Planning Association designated Jackson Square as one of America’s Great Public Spaces. But to me it is more than a park, it where tourists, locals and artists come together to showcase some of the things that set New Orleans apart. On any given day you can enjoy great food, amazing art, the sounds of local musicians all while taking in a historical landmark.</span>During daylight savings time it's open from 8am to 7pm. During winter, it's open from 8am to 6pm.<br /><span><br /></span><span>St. Louis Cathedral - The history of the Cathedral dates back to the 1720's, you can learn more about it <a href="http://www.experienceneworleans.com/st-louis-cathedral.html">here</a>. It is truly beautiful, if you have the time take the self guided tour for a minimum donation of $1, or if you can plan ahead attend mass! </span><br /><span><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EeSd6BO3ugg/VkAXbzaJGgI/AAAAAAAAF-A/4MMAzWHhKts/s1600/johnny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EeSd6BO3ugg/VkAXbzaJGgI/AAAAAAAAF-A/4MMAzWHhKts/s320/johnny.jpg" title="Johnnys PoBoys- New Orleans- photo by SimplySouthernGirl" width="320" /></a></div><span><b>3. Johnny PoBoys</b>- If you ask anyone from New Orleans everyone will tell you their "favorite" or the "best" PoBoy spot.. And while yes some are better than others, most preferences are based on a memory or an experience. For me Johnnys PoBoys is my go to, and I visit EVERY time I am in the city. The reason why is simple, my first trip back to Nola as an "adult" was in January of '00 and I called my dad and asked for a list of places to go (he might not remember that conversation, but I still have the scrap of paper I scribbled down notes on being sure to take in every detail) I was excited to be sharing my hometown with sorority sisters and friends as we ventured back for the FSU National Championship game. Not only do I always visit Johnnys, I always order the same thing. A Dixie Beer, Blacked Chicken PoBoy and Zapps BBQ Chips. Johnnys is located at </span>511 St Louis St. They only take cash, and there is often a line to the end of the street but it is well worth it. You can learn more about Johnnys by visiting their <a href="http://johnnyspoboys.com/">website.</a> I gasp to share another PoBoy spot, but I would be remiss, if I didn't share Mothers PoBoys. I have only been once. It is located in the Warehouse District, 401 Poydras. but it is a favorite for tourists... <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dE25RQSfYIQ/VkAjhX8WY_I/AAAAAAAAF-k/yNeI1OSHbMI/s1600/artmarket.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dE25RQSfYIQ/VkAjhX8WY_I/AAAAAAAAF-k/yNeI1OSHbMI/s320/artmarket.jpg" title="Frenchmans Art Market, New Orleans. Photo by SimplySouthernGirl" width="320" /></a></div><b>4. Frechmans Art Market- </b>located at 619 Frenchmen St, New Orleans, LA 70116. The market is open Thursday - Saturday 7pm-1am. <a href="http://frenchmenartmarket.com/">Here </a>is the link to the page, be sure to check hours before you make the trip. It is the only nighttime art market in Nola. It has local artists, musicians, and jewelry. <br /><br />and some of my other favorites.....<br /><b>5. Café Du Monde: </b> For beignets and coffee. Yes this is a quintessential<b> </b>Nola stop, but well worth it, and since it is open 24/7 (only closes for Christmas and major Hurricanes) you have no excuse not to visit. 813 Decatur St. right by Jackson Square. Grab a table and wait for service. Order up beingets (Beignets are square French -style doughnuts, lavishly covered with powdered sugar.) and a coffee. Note the coffee is dark roasted with chicory and is served Black or Au Lait. Au Lait means that it is mixed half and half with hot milk. Truly one must visit and experience- after all the Original Cafe Du Monde Coffee Stand was established in 1862 in the New Orleans French Market... so it must be good if it is still open today!! <b> </b><br /><b>6. Central Grocery: </b>Famous Muffuletta sandwiches, 923 Decatur St.<br /><b>7. Port of Call: </b> STRONG drinks. Great burgers, on the outskirts of the French Quarter, 838 Esplanade Ave (can be a bit dicey of a neighborhood)<br /><b>8. WW II Museum</b>- it is on 945 Magazine Street. You can buy tickets <a href="http://www.nationalww2museum.org/">online</a> or at the museum. It is an incredible museum. Of course I am bias b/c my dad installed the lights, sound, videos, interactive displays etc. But all bias aside check it out- you won't regret it.<br /><b>9. Emeril’s New Orleans: </b> If you want to do an Emeril’s restaurant, Warehouse District, 800 Tchoupitoulas St. (pronounced: Chop-i-too-lus)<br /><b>10. Deanie’s seafood: 841 Iberville St </b>check out the menu <a href="http://www.deanies.com/restaurants/french-quarter-private-dining/?utm_source=DeaniesHomePage&utm_medium=FooterImages&utm_content=FrenchQuarterSeafoodRestaurant&utm_campaign=Footer">here</a><br /><b>11. Antoine's</b> 713 St. Louis Street. They have a great Oyster Rockefeller and an amazing Sunday Brunch<br /><b>12. Drago's </b>they have great charboiled oysters. Check out there menu <a href="http://www.dragosrestaurant.com/">here</a><br /><br />More of my New Orleans Favorites in the next post..<br />Until then check out #SimplySouthernGirlTakesNOLA on Instagram for more photos. I will warn you you might end up hungry if you check it outUnknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-76825053518354614742015-09-07T23:56:00.000-04:002016-01-02T23:56:47.203-05:00Bonefish Grill - Tallahassee <span style="color: #1f497d;">When the local Tallahassee Bonefish grill reached out to me with an opportunity to enjoy a meal and experience the restaurant amidst our remodel. I decided to give it a go, and make it a girls night out! </span><br /><span style="color: #1f497d;"> </span><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #1f497d;">I am happy to share that with a recently renovated space the restaurant was more open, and had an industrial yet sleek interior design. This polished and inviting setting was complemented by great service. Our server was knowledgable and patient with us as we read thru the updated menu and decided on appetizers, and drinks! </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #1f497d;">Two of us opt'd for wine, by and Amy being adventurous opt'd for a fancy peach martini at the recommendation of the server. We agreed to go with Ahi Tuna for an appetizer, not only was it was delicious it was the perfect portion size for us to split. </span>The menu posts that it is a premium sushi grade, sesame-seared <span style="line-height: 1.5;">rare with wasabi + pickled ginger.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GBl2YoP2DPA/VoikzekzrrI/AAAAAAAAGCU/X_aQsd6gmjA/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B10.13.59%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GBl2YoP2DPA/VoikzekzrrI/AAAAAAAAGCU/X_aQsd6gmjA/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B10.13.59%2BPM.png" width="318" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #1f497d;">Bonefish Grill’s menu offers everything from savory Wood-Grilled Fish, Steak and Chops, Signature Spicy Tuna served with premium grade sesame-seared Ahi Tuna and passion fruit salsa along with burgers and salads. Amy went with the Florida Cobb Salad. The salad is comprised of </span>Grilled chicken, avocado, mango, tomatoes, Blue cheese, citrus herb vinaigrette. I opt'd to split a mean with Jenn, and we had Lily's Chicken - which is chicken cooked on the Wood Grill covered with Goat cheese, spinach, artichoke hearts + lemon basil sauce. We chose macaroni and cheese and broccoli as our sides. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cbtFAQp1Ugg/Voin7cNeMYI/AAAAAAAAGCk/Ed5hU2wRVHA/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B10.14.31%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cbtFAQp1Ugg/Voin7cNeMYI/AAAAAAAAGCk/Ed5hU2wRVHA/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B10.14.31%2BPM.png" width="316" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #1f497d;"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XAb4Eo1I6Ss/Voin7TRoT8I/AAAAAAAAGCg/Fy2H37m9um4/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B10.14.07%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="313" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XAb4Eo1I6Ss/Voin7TRoT8I/AAAAAAAAGCg/Fy2H37m9um4/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B10.14.07%2BPM.png" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Overall I was impressed with the restaurants overhaul. The music, lighting, and general ambiance of the restaurant was open, inviting and upbeat. This paired with our knowledgeable server and prompt service made for an excellent experience. Our server even doodled and dated our to go box! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NQUSXWSGDz4/VoipuOmuyKI/AAAAAAAAGC0/R3lx1ets2w4/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B10.14.22%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="314" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NQUSXWSGDz4/VoipuOmuyKI/AAAAAAAAGC0/R3lx1ets2w4/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B10.14.22%2BPM.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><br /><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #1f497d;"> While my meal was covered by Bonefish in exchange for a review, the opinions expressed are solely my own. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-31631581541730233902015-05-15T23:45:00.001-04:002018-10-19T21:26:03.699-04:00Monogram and Mimosa Engagement ShowerRecently, a good friend and sorority sister got engaged, she is a fellow "Southern Girl" Who appreciates Monograms, Mimosas and party planning. I knew immediately we must throw her a proper party! She was scheduled to graduate with her Masters from FSU, and move to Mississippi with her fiance, thus we had to act fast! We decided upon an engagement party- Monograms and Mimosas! <br /><br />I worked with <a href="http://www.thepolkadotpress.com/">The Polka Dot Press </a>on the adorable two sided invitations below. I used a simple white envelope with navy wrap, and gold writing.<br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Nx6fq7w8t2Y/VVbFHj8LN5I/AAAAAAAAFyM/txv3exWbWzI/s640/blogger-image--396362908.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Nx6fq7w8t2Y/VVbFHj8LN5I/AAAAAAAAFyM/txv3exWbWzI/s400/blogger-image--396362908.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QJ5J0q3C48o/VVbFIWX0UEI/AAAAAAAAFyU/X6kgR8070hQ/s640/blogger-image--96356113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QJ5J0q3C48o/VVbFIWX0UEI/AAAAAAAAFyU/X6kgR8070hQ/s640/blogger-image--96356113.jpg" /></a></div><br />Guests were greeted with Arianna's monogram on the door, and a chalkboard greeting asking guests to capture photos from the party with hashtags so Arianna and family/friends could view. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-S3AtM6YqKjo/VVbFJOvzDYI/AAAAAAAAFyc/2V6kNpDOnGg/s640/blogger-image--1727344715.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-S3AtM6YqKjo/VVbFJOvzDYI/AAAAAAAAFyc/2V6kNpDOnGg/s400/blogger-image--1727344715.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UmLfn_hKmbo/VVa9SK5_L4I/AAAAAAAAFwY/Uggnno4JQ4w/s640/blogger-image-1435685329.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UmLfn_hKmbo/VVa9SK5_L4I/AAAAAAAAFwY/Uggnno4JQ4w/s320/blogger-image-1435685329.jpg" width="240" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The entry table provided guests the opportunity to leave words of wisdom for the couple. Once cards were completed guest dropped the card into the gold birdcage. The flowers were provided by <a href="http://www.hillyfieldsflorist.com/">hilly fields florist</a>, and the monogrammed pen jar, and letters were a take a way for the bride to be after the party!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qLWYmm5AvG4/VVa9WNfhLFI/AAAAAAAAFxA/IEALmSdcIHU/s640/blogger-image--1270568624.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qLWYmm5AvG4/VVa9WNfhLFI/AAAAAAAAFxA/IEALmSdcIHU/s640/blogger-image--1270568624.jpg" /></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZYickwS5av8/VVa9aJtZW2I/AAAAAAAAFxo/bKGGeFqTNxE/s640/blogger-image--1413912636.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZYickwS5av8/VVa9aJtZW2I/AAAAAAAAFxo/bKGGeFqTNxE/s640/blogger-image--1413912636.jpg" /></a></div>The colors for the party were Blush and Gold, with pops of Navy, as the Bride knows one of her wedding colors will be navy. I created tassel for my fireplace, and <br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FfB9YqjWX_g/VVa9P0TjShI/AAAAAAAAFwA/pl2cyqNjlI0/s640/blogger-image-588006383.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FfB9YqjWX_g/VVa9P0TjShI/AAAAAAAAFwA/pl2cyqNjlI0/s400/blogger-image-588006383.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CEALpZz41nY/VVa9ZBYYPsI/AAAAAAAAFxg/pA8RiR8tKXM/s640/blogger-image-1356125475.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CEALpZz41nY/VVa9ZBYYPsI/AAAAAAAAFxg/pA8RiR8tKXM/s640/blogger-image-1356125475.jpg" /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uv4zJtFwilM/VVa9a7Gb62I/AAAAAAAAFxw/E9qPTUrYHKE/s640/blogger-image-1653620564.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uv4zJtFwilM/VVa9a7Gb62I/AAAAAAAAFxw/E9qPTUrYHKE/s640/blogger-image-1653620564.jpg" /> </a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The food theme was breakfast, as the party was from 10-1. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hCgqFh67uB4/VVa9UtlF-jI/AAAAAAAAFww/wqkRYMue_OI/s640/blogger-image-58394693.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hCgqFh67uB4/VVa9UtlF-jI/AAAAAAAAFww/wqkRYMue_OI/s320/blogger-image-58394693.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The menu included</div><div style="text-align: center;">cucumber slices with decadent cheese</div><div style="text-align: center;">fruit skewers (strawberries, grapes, and pineapple)</div><div style="text-align: center;">petite quiche</div><div style="text-align: center;">donut hole skewers </div><div style="text-align: center;">bacon wrapped kabosa sausage </div><div style="text-align: center;">and cake balls</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ng_qdXB1aI8/VVa9W-aejnI/AAAAAAAAFxI/DSRoBkOhS5E/s640/blogger-image-1792023389.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ng_qdXB1aI8/VVa9W-aejnI/AAAAAAAAFxI/DSRoBkOhS5E/s320/blogger-image-1792023389.jpg" width="320" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Can we take a second to drool over the flowers from <a href="http://www.hillyfieldsflorist.com/">hilly fields florist</a>. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I was over the moon with how they turned out, and I must say the guests were too!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2u3zkQF_eOw/VVa9YZEjFoI/AAAAAAAAFxY/ysWaSnRfLds/s640/blogger-image-1403313942.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2u3zkQF_eOw/VVa9YZEjFoI/AAAAAAAAFxY/ysWaSnRfLds/s320/blogger-image-1403313942.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We had a mimosa bar with various juices and fruits, and then Tea and water for those who wanted an alternative. (I forgot to snap a photo prior to the party getting started, but all of the champage glasses were lined up ready to go with stem decorations so guests could tell them apart. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eGkcSHQymsU/VVa9TpjsKgI/AAAAAAAAFwo/ewHtiumj7j0/s640/blogger-image-1773527938.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-J0F8lK8rJ18/VVa9XoKjbsI/AAAAAAAAFxQ/U8isg3a6KC0/s640/blogger-image-962881721.jpg" /><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eGkcSHQymsU/VVa9TpjsKgI/AAAAAAAAFwo/ewHtiumj7j0/s640/blogger-image-1773527938.jpg" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Guests each received a Monogram sugar cookie as a take away, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">with the Brides soon to be new monogram.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-td7F3X_QRjE/VVa9VTFEkDI/AAAAAAAAFw4/nnJy8Jh1weY/s640/blogger-image-956464235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-td7F3X_QRjE/VVa9VTFEkDI/AAAAAAAAFw4/nnJy8Jh1weY/s640/blogger-image-956464235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-td7F3X_QRjE/VVa9VTFEkDI/AAAAAAAAFw4/nnJy8Jh1weY/s640/blogger-image-956464235.jpg" /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bp7or9Za1x8/VVa9QuRVuaI/AAAAAAAAFwI/LmHX2oerXxg/s640/blogger-image-292195822.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bp7or9Za1x8/VVa9QuRVuaI/AAAAAAAAFwI/LmHX2oerXxg/s640/blogger-image-292195822.jpg" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and I just have to share the two below photos as they are my favorites from the day. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">left are the donut hole skewers in flower frogs! and right is Arianna opening her monogram cake carrier from JSBH (co-host) and I. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PxbSpS3uCsI/VVa9TJgzzkI/AAAAAAAAFwg/Q8WICZ_Q2JA/s640/blogger-image--1209697025.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PxbSpS3uCsI/VVa9TJgzzkI/AAAAAAAAFwg/Q8WICZ_Q2JA/s640/blogger-image--1209697025.jpg" /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9OL0zD3DXRs/VVa9RezlpOI/AAAAAAAAFwQ/4_PCIyDEHlM/s640/blogger-image-335023203.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9OL0zD3DXRs/VVa9RezlpOI/AAAAAAAAFwQ/4_PCIyDEHlM/s640/blogger-image-335023203.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-16606492473252385612015-04-20T22:58:00.000-04:002015-04-26T23:20:49.287-04:00Teds Montana Grill Tallahassee editionI was recently contacted regarding Ted's Montana Grills new spring menu, and asked if the Mister and I would like to give it a try. I immediately said yes, as C and I love a good burger, and are always up to trying something new. Additionally, I admire what Ted Turner is doing as an environmentalist and philanthropist, so it was a win win. Please note that the mister and I did receive a complementary meal, but the thoughts below are all our own... <br /><br />Ted's website states, <span style="font-family: Calibri;">Inspired by the pioneer spirit of the American West, Ted’s Montana Grill is committed to serving honest food served with genuine hospitality. The menu is known for its modern interpretation of hand-prepared, 100-percent fresh, classic American food. The chef inspired menu features the finest cuts and best selection of bison, including high-quality, flavorful steaks and award-winning burgers amongst a variety of other unique menu items.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I must also share that I work retail, so I have a crazy schedule, the GM of the Tallahassee location, George worked to accommodate us, and truly provided top notch service during our visit. </span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-X_qdRZRb_gA/VT2l55DP0II/AAAAAAAAFtM/ZBh73XsX_C8/s640/blogger-image-544327432.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-X_qdRZRb_gA/VT2l55DP0II/AAAAAAAAFtM/ZBh73XsX_C8/s640/blogger-image-544327432.jpg" /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MTNE2tw7j0g/VT2l4GI3hvI/AAAAAAAAFs8/0FIWzUgDT0k/s640/blogger-image-408275889.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MTNE2tw7j0g/VT2l4GI3hvI/AAAAAAAAFs8/0FIWzUgDT0k/s640/blogger-image-408275889.jpg" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Two of my favorite things about <a href="http://Teds Montana Grill">Teds Montana Grill</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1. The great quotes on the coasters. I know this is silly, but they truly are great one lines</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">2. the picked cucumbers .. a unique tasty treat and a refreshing choice from the usual bread to snack on while waiting for your appetizer/meal</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SwS3O20-YNQ/VT2l3VEntsI/AAAAAAAAFs0/zSqyHrJMhlI/s640/blogger-image-326681939.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SwS3O20-YNQ/VT2l3VEntsI/AAAAAAAAFs0/zSqyHrJMhlI/s320/blogger-image-326681939.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The mister and I tried the Smoked Trout Dip appetizer. It boasted a southwestern flavor featuring trout smoked in-house, roasted Anaheim peppers, fresh lime, cilantro and served with ciabatta toast points and tortilla chips. The mister is usually not a fan of fish, but he loved the dip and says he would order again! We like it best with the chips. Our server shared the bread is made fresh daily, but being ciabatta toast, it was a bit hard for my liking. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aq7kgSayXh8/VT2l5C4gnMI/AAAAAAAAFtE/N4piGJFPoWc/s640/blogger-image-2072988630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aq7kgSayXh8/VT2l5C4gnMI/AAAAAAAAFtE/N4piGJFPoWc/s320/blogger-image-2072988630.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The mister was quick to order the New York City-based Boylan soda to try. He opt'd for the Creme and I must say it was sweet, but subtle. I asked our server to tell us more about why Boylan? He denoted that Boylan builds on Ted’s desire to provide authentic American options made with natural ingredients. Boylan’s features bold-flavored sodas sweetened with pure cane sugar, natural oils and served in recycled glass bottles. Note there were three flavors to choose from: black cherry, creme and orange.</span> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Vtf1-r8ZBrs/VT2l2uKz63I/AAAAAAAAFss/1fgsmrlhH1Y/s640/blogger-image--1597573642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Vtf1-r8ZBrs/VT2l2uKz63I/AAAAAAAAFss/1fgsmrlhH1Y/s200/blogger-image--1597573642.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R3-XL57QF9M/VT2l6hdUTQI/AAAAAAAAFtU/mL3tquGB7ts/s640/blogger-image--506557151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R3-XL57QF9M/VT2l6hdUTQI/AAAAAAAAFtU/mL3tquGB7ts/s200/blogger-image--506557151.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />Dinner..<br />The mister chose Bison Meatloaf with garlic mashed potatoes, and squash casserole. He considers himself somewhat of a Meatloaf expert, as he orders it nearly ever time it is on the menu. C shares that the meatloaf was moist, and the seasonings bring out the full bison flavor the bison and the sauce compliments the meatloaf.<br /><br />I chose the Avalon Bison Burger- Gruyère, Blue Cheese, bacon caramelized onions, roasted garlic aioli, baby arugula.. I opt'd for onion rings instead of fries. The burger was huge! After half of the burger I was full, and I knew I needed to save room for dessert.. Thus I asked for a to go package, and enjoyed half for lunch the following day .. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wIOFgR8-jG4/VT2l7dFnKqI/AAAAAAAAFtc/oDGlrATdWU0/s640/blogger-image-773132876.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wIOFgR8-jG4/VT2l7dFnKqI/AAAAAAAAFtc/oDGlrATdWU0/s320/blogger-image-773132876.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We were excited to learn that Ted’s Strawberry Shortcake dessert returned to the menu, as we had heard about it prior, but were not quick enough to make it to Ted's to try it. The dessert featured fresh-baked sweet drop biscuits topped with vanilla Häagen- Dazs® ice cream and house-made whipped cream, fresh strawberries and strawberry sauce.</span> It was the perfect end to an amazing meal. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">C & I are already thinking about when we can go back! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-46505049873455533922015-04-18T23:36:00.000-04:002015-04-27T00:17:51.541-04:00Dare to Dream....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iZbIqBJZHlw/VT22aFGoS7I/AAAAAAAAFuQ/ENJlJd1UZO0/s640/blogger-image--20919728.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iZbIqBJZHlw/VT22aFGoS7I/AAAAAAAAFuQ/ENJlJd1UZO0/s320/blogger-image--20919728.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Today I continue on my journey working to document the Alpha Chi Omega Global Service Initiatives trip. Please note, I am working on these posts from my cell phones (I didn't bring my laptop, or any other valuables to camp), thus there maybe a few typos along the way...<br /><br />Tonight we ended our day with reflection time. The staff from Alpha Chi leading the trip has worked to carve out this time each evening. The time is spent by many reflecting on a prompt in their journals, or outwardly discussing with others. Being a processor by nature I have utilized the time each evening to inwardly process the events of the day.... the interactions I had, the sights I saw, and the conversations I was engaged in....<br /><br />Today was a day that I can recap in one word DREAM.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ET8NDkF7Av4/VT22YyW4pnI/AAAAAAAAFuI/5nT6ZnHiQNk/s640/blogger-image-1618034977.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ET8NDkF7Av4/VT22YyW4pnI/AAAAAAAAFuI/5nT6ZnHiQNk/s640/blogger-image-1618034977.jpg" /></a></div>Fellow alumna, Megan from Kansas who I already shared an affinity with (she is a fellow Chapter Advisor) shared in reflection that set set a goal for herself to visit all 50 states. I of course knew that Megan and I had to be friends. She shared that this trip was a step in <span style="color: #0000ee;"><u>fulfilling</u></span> that dream.<br /><br />Marc (the homeowner) shared his dream of having a completed house for his family. Marc's son Cole shared his room with us- sharing paint colors, where his bed would go etc,<br /><br />Walt (the foreman) shared his story about giving back and his dream of making a difference.<br /><br />I chatted with by husband via text during our reflection time, and shared my dream., in relation to my post yesterday that every difference makes a difference. My dream is that not only am I making a difference but that I am inspiring others to make a difference. Yes, this trip is emotional for me. It is hard to city a city I love is such disrepair nearly a decade after Katrina, but it is important for me, becuase I dream of a day that the city will fully recover, and a day that others will see that to the world you maybe one person but to that one person you maybe the world..<br /><br />and to close it is important to set dreams and goals for ourselves, but it is even more important to challenge ourselves and each other to achieve those dreams, and you never know who else you will inspire along the way.. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">What's your dream???</span></div><br /><br />update: Megan shared more about her dream over on the<a href="http://blog.alphachiomega.org/2015/04/whats-your-dream/"> Alpha Chi Blog, </a>check it out..<br /><br />She also shared a book, that I may or may not (OK I DID) have already ordered on Amazon! <br />Megan shared: <br /><blockquote class="tr_bq">“The Dream Manager,” by Mathew Kelly. He writes about the high percentage of turnover companies experience with their employees. His solution is to ask employees what their dreams are, and help them achieve those dreams via a company Dream Manager who is appointed to help everyone achieve their dreams. He found when employees are happy with their personal lives, they end up being better workers and more loyal to the company. </blockquote><br /><b><i></i></b><br /><i><b> </b></i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-64280133178671118102015-04-17T22:54:00.000-04:002015-04-26T22:55:42.146-04:00It is not about you.... <div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="AGSI_Day2b" class="size-medium wp-image-2168 " src="http://blog.alphachiomega.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/AGSI_Day2b-225x300.jpg" height="400" width="300" /> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> I posted yesterday about my arrival in New Orleans, and my excitement to attend and be apart of the Global Service Initiates trip for Alpha Chi Omega. This trip allows myself and 11 other alumnae to make a difference in the Cresent City. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Today we met the family whose home we would be helping to rebuild. We are working with a former New Orleans Police officer who found himself homeless after Katrina. Due to a law on the books in New Orleans, he also found himself jobless (New Orleans police officers had to live in New Orleans, this law is no longer) Upon finding another job (still a police officer) he bought this 1951 1 bedroom, 1 bath house with the vision to expand it to fit his family. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We also met Walt, the foreman who oversees the various projects Camp Restore is working on. Prior to this Walt, renovated churches throughout the Midwest. He suffered a heart attack and upon recovery was called to move on to rehabilitating homes in New Orleans. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">So today surround by my sisters, homeowner (Marc in orange) and Foreman (Walk in blue) we embarqed on a journey to rebuild. We learned how to install insulation & drywall, how to mix up mud, and how to float walls. We learned the importance of being humble enough to ask for help (big and small). We learned that dedication and heart can make a difference, and that as a team we can get stuff done!<br /><br />But mostly today, when reflecting I learned that yes this trip may be physically and emotionally hard for many of us, but in the end it isn't about us, it is about those we will touch during our time here. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I am excited to leave Day 1 with drywall up in the living room, mudding started in bedrooms, insulation in the master bedroom, and the job site super organized! Can't wait to get back to it tomorrow!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://scontent-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/11169832_851855558227829_805166563789301337_n.jpg?oh=cddc3299e84339e272638e35aa544b0e&oe=55CFAE95" style="height: 629px; width: 472px;" width="240" /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-36507462279083522112015-04-16T22:44:00.000-04:002015-04-26T22:54:48.403-04:00Every Difference Makes a Difference.. <div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Inaugural Alumnae Global Service Initiative participants" class=" wp-image-2159 " src="http://blog.alphachiomega.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/axoGSI_AXOalum_1.gif" height="306" width="396" /></div>Traveling from all corners of America – Alpha Chi Omega alumnae and Alpha Chi headquarter professional staff converged at Camp Restore in New Orleans, Louisiana for the inaugural Alumnae Global Service Initiative Trip. For me, this trip was special. Not only would I be volunteering with my sisters, but I would also be volunteering in my hometown – a city close to my heart. This was a once in a lifetime opportunity, and one that I am humbled to be a part of.<br /><br />After the regulatory “camp” tour and assignment of “camp chores,” the team took time to relax, unpack and settle in. For many of us, sleeping in bunk beds is a trip down memory lane to our collegiate days in residence halls and chapter facilities; this time, however, the conditions are different. Camp Restore opened in 2006 following Katrina. The camp was a place of hope, a place where those willing to volunteer congregated. Following Katrina, hundreds of volunteers occupied the camp, often sleeping in PODS and FEMA trailers. Nearly a decade after the camp opened its doors it still remains prevalent in the rebuilding of New Orleans. Volunteers continue to fill the gap left behind in the rebuilding of the city.<br />We were each drawn to apply for this trip for different reasons, but a common theme was a desire to give back surrounded by our sisters. We wanted to strike on the cords of love, unselfishness and sincerity. We wanted to make a difference, giving of ourselves as we are able.<br /><br />Over introductions and subsequent dinner, we mingled with the leaders of the camp and gained a glimpse into their daily lives and the life of a New Orleanian, post Katrina. Following dinner participants gathered for reflection and were challenged to define our view of the culture of New Orleans. We all found the city to be one rich in heritage and culture. A city of passion and hope. A city rich in the spirit of family. After reflection we watched a documentary that illustrated the city’s trials and tribulations post Katrina and the obstacles that are presented to current residents and those wishing to return to the city. The documentary clearly, and undeniably, showcased the city’s rich and resilient heritage, and left us driven to make an impact in the coming days. As we ended the night we returned to our bunks, each reflecting on the impact that this trip, this city and our fellow Alpha Chi Omega sisters will leave on each other and on the great city of New Orleans.<br /><br />I head to bed anxious to share this great city and this experience with my fellow sisters who are here and, thru this blog, with sisters across the nation. May each and every sister remember the importance of every service rendered and be inspired to volunteer. After all, every difference makes a difference.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-49819818521913183042015-03-17T00:40:00.001-04:002015-03-17T00:45:14.072-04:00Shamrock rice crispy treats<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-K-cjK59gGi0/VQewLw3aQGI/AAAAAAAAFqY/yTtBjVYDVJk/s640/blogger-image-64660240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-K-cjK59gGi0/VQewLw3aQGI/AAAAAAAAFqY/yTtBjVYDVJk/s400/blogger-image-64660240.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Last St. Patricks day, I treated my team to Lucky Charms Rice Crispy Treats for St. Patrick's Day! </div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This year I decided to do a little something different! </div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>1/2 stick of butter </i></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">melt in sauce pan then add... </div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>1 bag of small marshmallows (4 cups)</i></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">heat until all melted, mixing while melting... </div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">add green food dye (color to your preference)</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">remove from heat, </div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>add 5 cups of Rice Crispy Cereal </i></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and then lay out on tin foil, cover with tin foil, and use rolling bin to roll to desired thickness</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">let cool</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">cut with cookie cutter!</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9ghSK44ZB-k/VQewMrGnq6I/AAAAAAAAFqg/RN9xAUIdIs8/s640/blogger-image--1424255467.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9ghSK44ZB-k/VQewMrGnq6I/AAAAAAAAFqg/RN9xAUIdIs8/s400/blogger-image--1424255467.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3028301038707122653.post-69787470358567083322015-03-05T12:48:00.000-05:002015-03-05T12:48:08.550-05:00Wedding Wednesday -DIY Cotton Boutonnieres<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tJjozjUc288/UiLCHucKHkI/AAAAAAAAEmM/I-Pn9J7R30w/s1600/0592+CHR_0093rm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tJjozjUc288/UiLCHucKHkI/AAAAAAAAEmM/I-Pn9J7R30w/s400/0592+CHR_0093rm.JPG" height="400" width="265" /></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;">C decided he wanted to wear Cotton Boutonnieres. Seems like a reasonable request right? Well, that is what I thought until I started searching for them. They are much harder to find then one would think. I was about to throw in the towel, and my mom happened upon a </span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Handmade-Weddings-More-Crafts-Personalize/dp/0811874508" target="_blank">Handmade Weddings </a>book at the used book store! Flipping thru the pages I found COTTON BOUTONNIERS!!!! </span> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SdqCcpCW95Y/USb9OfsNqxI/AAAAAAAAD4k/UnfCSefwJQ8/s1600/photo+1-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"> </span><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SdqCcpCW95Y/USb9OfsNqxI/AAAAAAAAD4k/UnfCSefwJQ8/s320/photo+1-1.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-98g6O-8WxXs/USb9OunR9-I/AAAAAAAAD4s/t_lkgMamlug/s1600/photo+2-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-98g6O-8WxXs/USb9OunR9-I/AAAAAAAAD4s/t_lkgMamlug/s320/photo+2-1.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div> I showed C, and he was 100% on board. He ordered cotton (left) from <a href="http://www.floralcotton.com/" target="_blank">Floral Cotton</a>, the Texas tallow (right), lavender (below), clear floral tape and boutonniere pins from <a href="http://www.save-on-crafts.com/" target="_blank">Save-On-Crafts</a>. I purchased the navy ribbon from Hobby Lobby. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-33MftU2eeNk/USb9PGbu1bI/AAAAAAAAD44/IyqGllTnay4/s1600/photo+3-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-33MftU2eeNk/USb9PGbu1bI/AAAAAAAAD44/IyqGllTnay4/s320/photo+3-1.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div> All of the supplies arrived quickly and were of excellent quality. I rallied one of my bridesmaids JSBH to help me with the "crafting"... her hubby also came over to "supervise" .. He is British, and actually read thru parts of our honeymoon itinerary ,and provided comic relief. So here is what we did!!!<br /><b><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Here’s what you will need for 12 boutonnieres:</span></b><br /><ul><li>Cotton (I bought 24 bolls, I worried, I would break a few stems, I didn't so now I have extra)</li><li>Texas Tallow (two bunches)</li><li>Lavender (optional, 1 bunch)</li><li>Floral Tape ( I opted for clear)</li><li>Ribbon (I chose navy to match the bridesmaids’ dresses)</li><li>Boutonniere Pins (I chose pearl ones to match bridesmaids necklaces)</li><li>Hot Glue Gun</li><li>Scissors</li></ul><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p4d14Z5FB5Y/USb9PpzASII/AAAAAAAAD5M/m4Yco0oC9sE/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p4d14Z5FB5Y/USb9PpzASII/AAAAAAAAD5M/m4Yco0oC9sE/s320/photo+5.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div> Group together 2 sprigs of lavender, 1 boll of cotton, and cluter or two (depending on size) of Texas Tallow. Wrap the prior with the floral tape so it stays together. Then place a small dab of glue on the end of the ribbon and secure to the top of the stems, wrapping the ribbon from top to bottom and back up. Add one more dab of glue to secure the end of the ribbon.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eJFnajwwpro/USb9O4Q_XpI/AAAAAAAAD40/ErRnOZuREBk/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eJFnajwwpro/USb9O4Q_XpI/AAAAAAAAD40/ErRnOZuREBk/s320/photo+2.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_9ibOsc9H_g/USb9Pd64HII/AAAAAAAAD5Y/xiMPDHsHM5Q/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_9ibOsc9H_g/USb9Pd64HII/AAAAAAAAD5Y/xiMPDHsHM5Q/s320/photo+4.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> We created the smaller boutonniere with just lavender and Texas Tallow for the ring bearer. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uz9RbHRiLsw/UScD9_ag0-I/AAAAAAAAD5k/USQ6dOTu3Fs/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uz9RbHRiLsw/UScD9_ag0-I/AAAAAAAAD5k/USQ6dOTu3Fs/s320/photo+3.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7ruHqlnd3Nk/USb9OodILGI/AAAAAAAAD4o/y2ueTqnORjc/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7ruHqlnd3Nk/USb9OodILGI/AAAAAAAAD4o/y2ueTqnORjc/s320/photo+1.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>I am quite happy with how they turned out, and the Mister is over the moon! I would recommend this to any DIY Brides, as they are fun to make and turn out great! <br /><br />and below are a few additional photos of the boutonnieres... <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y-oMUhUbcd0/UiLCGytRsEI/AAAAAAAAEmI/md2PeDAUm-k/s1600/0157+_BRI0328rm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y-oMUhUbcd0/UiLCGytRsEI/AAAAAAAAEmI/md2PeDAUm-k/s400/0157+_BRI0328rm.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YPzCwi2-TcE/UiLCII3NK_I/AAAAAAAAEmU/-CmAtSCj8oc/s1600/0156+_BRI0327rm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YPzCwi2-TcE/UiLCII3NK_I/AAAAAAAAEmU/-CmAtSCj8oc/s400/0156+_BRI0327rm.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0