Just Lovely

LOL what?!

2012-02-01T15:35:00.001-05:00

Have you all seen this video of Kristen Bell on Ellen? HILARIOUS?! Who knew someone could love sloths so much?! But I think she is adorable, so had to share!

Listen Up Guys!

2012-01-31T13:54:00.000-05:00

For Valentine's Day, buy her flowers that won't ever die...

So many gorgeous, original oil painting of different flowers on Etsy.

You are sure to find her favorites!

Hydrangea Flower Painting

Fushia Wildflower

Large Water & Flowers

White Floral (cute 6"x6" would be darling on a stand on her desk!)

"Music In Your Eyes"

And my fave, the one I hope my Benjamin gets me for Valentine's Day:

Hydrangea and Sweet Peas Abstract on canvas

I hate you Priscilla of Boston

2012-01-30T14:03:00.001-05:00

Why did you have to go out of business before your Spring 2012 line came out?! I need Penelope. So, have any of you seen anything similar? Can I have a dress made? Where does one do that? I'm sad, this is the perfect gown for me :( Well actually, I could do without the keyhole back...makes it look kind of wide.

Want of the Week

2012-01-27T10:31:00.000-05:00

Gold plated Quad leaf Fleur Drop Dangle Earring with Semi precious stone Chrysoprase Aventurine from HERE $59.99

awesome business cards

2012-01-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

While I'm getting my continuing legal education on, I thought I'd share these AH-Mazing business cards I found via Pinterest. For real, I think I need these. The perfect card for any fun loving divorce attorney!! hahahaha

Unfortunately, I have no idea where one might acquire such ingenious calling cards.

bleehhh

2012-01-23T16:08:00.001-05:00

I need a vacation. Ya feel me?! I could really use a break from the everyday. Give me some sunshine on my face (heavily loaded up with sunscreen, of course), a fruity cocktail and a lengthy nap to the sounds of the ocean....

Do you all have any mid-winter vaycas planned? We may be heading to FL in Feb for a long weekend with close friends. Fingers crossed. I'm in a rut.

For now however, I will be in northern KY for a two day continuing education class. Yay (sarcasm font). Speaking of sarcasm font, I think we should all ban together and dedicate one font to being THE Sarcasm font. Who wants to take the lead on this?! We will need you to contact twitter and have it incorporated into tweeting as well. haha!

puppy love...to fall or not to fall?

2012-01-20T11:46:00.000-05:00

Ben and I have wanted a puppy for, well, forever. We go back and forth about when the right time to start this little "family" will be. He is recently set on getting one now. I would looooove to snuggle up to a sweet baby white lab right now...but I also think we might ought to wait until we move into a house. Our condo is like 800 square feet. We have no outdoor space. It's winter. See where I'm going? For tax reasons we can't even begin to think about buying a house until October 2012. And now, we have a wedding to think of budgeting for so I don't know where a house will fall into the mix. Ben also travels a lot, and for extended periods of time for work. I am not traveling for work any longer so I could run home to let the baby out etc.

When did you all get your dog's? Did you have a large place? Is it unfair to the dog to have him cooped up in our tiny condo for at least a year? Of course we would walk him, and Ben would surely take him running and hunting. Any advice doggy mommies??

Idea Board

2012-01-18T14:51:00.000-05:00

I've had lots of questions about the wedding. We haven't set a date yet but are thinking perhaps June 1, 2013. Here is the inspiration board I've come up with...

{click to zoom}

Charleston Photographer??

2012-01-17T11:35:00.000-05:00

Hello lovelies! I have a question for ya...does anyone know of any great photographers in the Charleston, SC area? We have decide to have the wedding at home, here in Lexington. Thus, we want to incorporate our favorite city by having our engagement pictures taken in the Lowcountry! Have you all used anyone you would recommend?

love, love, love this set in the doorways!

KTJ BWK KWT

2012-01-13T15:44:00.000-05:00

What do you all think of monogrammed veils? Is it something that I might look back on and wish I hadn't done? Is it too much with a veil that already has a lace trim? I can't decide if it's a good idea or not. And what monogram would I get? My maiden, ours together, my new name? Thoughts?!

From Here

Delivery

2012-01-10T13:51:00.002-05:00

I blogged earlier about how I was asking for a Birchbox subscription for Christmas. Well, Ben's sweet parents surprised me with one and I was so excited to get my first package in the mail today! Now, I don't know if every Birchbox subscriber receives the exact same samples every month, but here is what goodies came in my January box:

1. VMV Hypoallergenics Re-Evertyhting Eye Serum
2. Zoya Nail Polish
3. Lara Bar (Not Luna*....This was disgusting, btw)
4. Jouer Lipgloss
5. Juicy Couture Fragrance

How fun! Its $110 for 12 months or $10 a month. Sign up here!!

pretty, pretty princess

2012-01-09T14:08:00.000-05:00

How gorgeous did Kate look at the premier of War Horse? Sigh...so pretty. And that dress!! Would totally look lovely in cream for a wedding gown! I will definitely be decked out in lace on my wedding day!

Big News!!

2012-01-03T11:35:00.000-05:00

Saturday for New Years Eve we went to our friends Nancy & Mike's wedding. She was gorgeous and the wedding was super fun! The band was amazing and they even had the popular late night pizza spot deliver pizza before the wedding was over!

Blurry, but her dress was just perfect! She was such a beautiful bride!

Evidence of the good time had by all!

She put on this fab one shoulder dress for their exit!

And then Sunday Ben asked me to marry him!! We're engaged! Lol I know ya'll have been waiting on this for a while (me too!!) I'm so excited! I was totally not expecting it, at all! We were home taking down Christmas decorations and before I knew it he was on one knee! We then got ready and went to my cousins' to celebrate with my family. I've had more champagne this weekend than any one person should consume!

Then yesterday our good friends Brittany and Pat hosted an engagement brunch for us! I had known we were going over there for brunch but the fact that it was for my engagement was a surprise! haha, Ben and Britt had planned it all out! We ended up staying over there all day just hanging out and celebrating with great friends! I'm a lucky girl :)

I don't know what the plans for the wedding will be yet. We have kicked around having it in Charleston for a while. It's both of our favorite city and well, just beautiful...so that may be what we end up doing. Not on the beach, but downtown. I expect it will be 2013 though...so don't expect any hard core wedding planning posts right away!

eShakti Review

2011-12-29T11:35:00.000-05:00

I was contacted by eShakti.com to review one of their products. I agreed to do so because I think the concept behind the site is different and interesting...there are tons of designs (everything from dresses to coats) to choose from and then they are customizable. Some items have more customizable features than others, but almost all can be custom ordered to your measurements. You can also change neck lines, lengths, sleeves etc. I think this is an awesome source for women who may have difficulty finding clothes from traditional retailers to fit their bodies. And you might expect their prices to be high, but not at all! Their items are very affordable.

Check out their website!

I ordered the Silk Soiree Sheath Dress to review. It really is lovely and the quality is great. I put in my exact measurements and the hem and neckline were customizable. For example, I could have chosen a deep V neckline and an elbow length sleeve.

Sunday's Meal

2011-12-28T12:04:00.002-05:00

With New Years coming up I decided to hit Pinterest to find a black-eyed peas recipe for a traditional New Year's Day supper. Hey, I could always use some good luck!

I found THIS article that explains how the tradition of eating black-eyed peas on New Year's Day for luck and prosperity in the New Year began:

"The practice of eating black-eyed peas for luck is generally believed to date back to the Civil War. At first planted as food for livestock, and later a food staple for slaves in the South, the fields of black-eyed peas were ignored as Sherman's troops destroyed or stole other crops, thereby giving the humble, but nourishing, black-eyed pea an important role as a major food source for surviving Confederates.
Adding a shiny penny or dime to the pot just before serving is another tradition practiced by some. When served, the person whose bowl contains the penny or dime receives the best luck for the New Year..." (read the rest of the article for recopies and variations on the tradition)

This black-eyed peas and sausage crock pot recipe looks delish, no?! I'll be making this on Sunday!

What you will need:

4 hot dog length precooked sausages, sliced thinly
1 grilled small to medium sized onion
1 roasted bell pepper
1 (4 ounce) can fire roasted green chilies (mild or hot, your choice)
1 (12 ounce) beer (drink a second beer while assembling)
3 (15 ounce cans) black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon salt
Fresh ground black pepper to taste
Olive oil for grilling vegetables

See HERE for cooking instructions!

Do you all have the traditional "lucky" New Year's meal? What do you make?!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-23T11:34:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas my lovely readers! I hope you all have a wonderful holiday weekend with your families and loved ones. Cheers!

My fave Christmas song!

2011-12-21T11:24:00.000-05:00

story of my life

2011-12-20T11:04:00.000-05:00

a friend found this print and sent it to me saying it reminded her of me. omg. SO me. i ordered it of course :)

Lolz! Love it! From HERE

Please Pray

2011-12-16T11:21:00.000-05:00

Please pray for one of my best friend's, Brittany, mom. She suffered two heart attacks last night and they came very close to losing her. As luck would have it, Britt's sister happened to be with their mom when it happened or else she would not have made it. Thankfully she is recovering in the ICU and is expected to be ok. Please pray for her and their family!

single monogram christmas wreath

2011-12-14T12:15:00.001-05:00

Happy Monday!

2011-12-12T11:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday my lovelies! Hope you all had festive weekends! We went to a Christmas party Saturday night and then on Sunday I took logan to a live nativity and attempted to make a gingerbread house. Harder than it looks people! Are you all finished Christmas shopping? I'm about halfway done, hopefully I can knock the rest out this week!

life changer

2011-12-09T14:17:00.000-05:00

How have I gone my whole life without this little gem in my makeup bag? What is it? The crease brush. It allows you to apply eyeshadow in the crease (hence the name) of your eye without having to close your eye. AMAZING! And it allows for more even, predictable coverage (I always have difficulty getting my eyes to match). Seriously, if you don't already own one of these you need to go pick one up!

on my list

2011-12-07T11:21:00.000-05:00

I've asked for a subscription to Birchbox this year for Christmas. Really hoping Santa delivers this one to me under my tree...or to my door each month!

Do you all get Birchbox? For those of you who don't know what it is, you sign up and it's $10 per month and you receive 4-5 deluxe beauty product samples in the mail every month. It really is the gift that keeps on giving all year long!

Logan's Gift -Wayfair.com

2011-12-05T09:00:00.000-05:00

Wayfair contacted me and asked me to check out their new home website (they were formerly CSN)...the new site is much easier to navigate and the layout is more user friendly.

As their slogan says, they have a zillion things to chose from. I was searching through the kid's items, looking for something for Logan. I think this sweet decorative toy storage container would be a lovely gift

or maybe Santa will bring some lucky child this awesome outdoor play house!
(a kid can dream, right?!)

I settled on this Rocket Play Tent for Logan. He loves playing dress up and pretend play, so I may have to order him an astronaut costume as well!

HANAair Review

2011-12-02T09:00:00.001-05:00

The lovely folks over at Misikko sent me the HANAair Professional Hair Dryer from the Hana line to review...and let me tell you, I LOVE it! I was this close to putting a new hair dryer on my Christmas wish list. I'd been using some cheapy thing from Target for far too long, so I was more than happy to give this baby a try! It definitely got my hair dry more quickly and my hair was noticeably more smooth and shiny. The higher end dryer made a huge difference!

I'm not one to spend $200 on a styling tool for myself, but with Christmas coming up, I think this is a wonderful gift idea {and you could gift to yourself :)}. I love getting people gifts that they wouldn't normally buy for themselves. Check out Misikko's website and you will surely find the best blow dryer for the lady in your life, they carry CHI Hair Dryers also!

Blog Sale - Holiday Dresses!

2011-12-01T12:43:00.004-05:00

Hello lovlies! I have several dresses for sale that will be great for upcoming holiday parties! Shipping is free. Email me with any questions!

SOLD H&M teal shift dess size 6. Never worn. $25. Button detail in back. The bottom picture is a more accurate representation of the true color. It is more green than turquoise.

SOLD Silver & gold one should dress. $40. Worn once. Size 6. Arc & Co. This dress makes your waist look tiny!

SOLD Red BCBGeneration pleated dress. Size 6. This is a true red color, not orange as in the picture. Worn once. $35.

Silver bow dress. Bought at local boutique. Size Small. $15.

Gold strapless dress. Never worn. Size 6. $40.

SOLD Black satiny long sleeve shift. Express size Small. $10.

My Christmas Cards from Minted!

2011-11-30T09:00:00.000-05:00

Well, tomorrow it will be officially December! The holiday season is in full swing!

I wanted to share with you all our 2011 Christmas cards I ordered from Minted! Aren't they lovely?! This was my first time ordering from Minted and I was pleased! My first proof came back incorrect, but they made the changes quickly and I wasn't charged $25 for an additional proof since the mistake was theirs. The quality of the cards really is wonderful!

Have you all sent out your Christmas cards yet?! Minted is still offering $25 off your first purchase when you use THIS link! Go check out all their custom holiday cards!

Christmas Card Display DIY

2011-11-29T09:58:00.002-05:00

I needed something to do with all the Christmas cards that will be arriving in the mail this holiday season, so when I saw this picture on Pinterest, I thought I'd whip one up!

Super simple, just buy a 12-14" embroidery hoop ($1.50), mini clothes pins (99¢), and ribbon(I already had). Hot glue the pins to the hoop and add a bow for hanging...

And there you have it...ready to be filled up with new Christmas cards from friends and family!

(what's with Martha's friends sending teeny tiny cards?)

Christmas Gift Idea #4

2011-11-27T12:49:00.000-05:00

For your Guy: $115+

A Smathers and Branson Monogram Needlepoint Wallet.

Since it is a little late to order a custom wallet, I also like the Derby Horse Wallet

And of course, the UK Wallet!

Always, always

2011-11-24T08:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!

2011-11-22T10:00:00.000-05:00

Ben and I are in NC visiting his family for the holiday. Have a great week and safe travels!

Christmas Gift Ideas #3

2011-11-21T09:42:00.000-05:00

How cute are these Monogram Earrings for just $35!

Be sure to order soon, says it takes 2-3 weeks!

Christmas Gift Idea #2

2011-11-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

Stocking Stuffer, #For Her

Bobbi Brown Limited Edition Classic To Go Palette. Just the right size to fit in even the smallest of clutches & contains all of the essentials...well, I don't go anywhere without my eyelash curler, but thats just me.

I want this one for myself...so if you buy me Christmas gifts and you are reading this...take note!

Christmas Cards - $25 Minted Credit!

2011-11-17T20:00:00.000-05:00

I ordered my Christmas cards yesterday from Minted! I cannot wait to receive them! Of course, I'll share them with you all when they arrive in the mail! Use THIS LINK to get a $25 Minted credit!!

i bought it bc it was on sale

2011-11-16T18:15:00.000-05:00

Ya'll, I'm SO bad about buying things just because they are one sale! If I have a discount code, I feel like I just have to use it. But, there were a few things I've had my eye on lately that I held off on a my patients paid off because I got them at a great discount! I have a Banana card, so I guess maybe that is why I get so many sale offers? Look at my scores...

Got this lovely gray coat from Banana for 50% off today!

This snow leopard dress from Piperlime for 20% off. They rarely have sales, so I was excited bc I was going to order this dress anyways!

I almost purchased some more expensive Ivanka Trump nude heels, but after reading the reviews for both those and these, I went with these. And hello! They were just $69, can't beat that! These were on backorder, so I hope they are as great as all the reviews said when they arrive.

I used $25 of Piperlime Perks to get the heels and these earrings

I also ordered this tweed jacket that was already on sale for $40, but I got an extra 25% off today!

Do you all feel like you must use a discount when you have it too?! I'm glad I waited on the coat! You can always count on Gap brands to have good sales. Plus, with the holidays coming up, everyone is having sales! Score!

Christmas Gift Ideas #1

2011-11-15T09:00:00.001-05:00

Today I'm going to start a series of Christmas gift ideas. Today's idea is for #kids:

Fill glass jars (recycle old jars from the kitchen. soak in warm soapy water to remove labels) with crayons, small toys, craft supplies, candies, etc. Glue a plastic animal (can be found at Michaels or Hobby Lobby) to the lids and paint with a fun colored spray paint.

I think a set of these would be much a appreciated & also look adorable in a kid's room!

{source}

book review: The Night Circus

2011-11-14T10:56:00.000-05:00

The Night Circus, by Erin Morgenstern

Our book club read this for our November book and I'm so pleased that Lauren chose it! At first I was a bit apprehensive, I mean we already read a book set at the circus early this year (Water for Elephants)...but I was in for a real treat! This book is magical! Haha, well it is about magic! I highly recommend this book!

Here is what Amazon had to say:

"The circus arrives without warning. No announcements precede it. It is simply there, when yesterday it was not. Within the black-and-white striped canvas tents is an utterly unique experience full of breathtaking amazements. It is called Le Cirque des Rêves, and it is only open at night.

But behind the scenes, a fierce competition is underway—a duel between two young magicians, Celia and Marco, who have been trained since childhood expressly for this purpose by their mercurial instructors. Unbeknownst to them, this is a game in which only one can be left standing, and the circus is but the stage for a remarkable battle of imagination and will. Despite themselves, however, Celia and Marco tumble headfirst into love—a deep, magical love that makes the lights flicker and the room grow warm whenever they so much as brush hands.

True love or not, the game must play out, and the fates of everyone involved, from the cast of extraordinary circus performers to the patrons, hang in the balance, suspended as precariously as the daring acrobats overhead.

Written in rich, seductive prose, this spell-casting novel is a feast for the senses and the heart."

Support our Troops this Veterans Day!

2011-11-11T10:57:00.000-05:00

Today's Living Social deal is a $15 Care Package for US Troops! I think this is a spectacular opportunity to show your support on this Veterans Day. My grandfather (who served in the Korean War), father, uncle, brother, cousin (any many more past generations of men in my family) have all served in the military. I'm thankful for them and for all of the men & women who sacrifice so much for all of us.

Go here to purchase!

Holly Day Market

2011-11-11T09:22:00.000-05:00

Ladies! To those of you in the Lexington area, be sure to stop by the Junior League of Lexington's Holly Day Market this weekend! I went last night and there are tons and tons of wonderful vendors. A great opportunity to get some of your holiday shopping finished!

Have a lovely weekend!

L.A.T.

2011-11-09T20:38:00.000-05:00

I had some pictures taken of my nephew, Logan, late October. They turned out great! Isn't he the most handsome guy?! Photos by Jesse Gabbard Photography

2011-11-08T09:41:00.000-05:00

Made it home from Chicago! Looks like I am finished traveling for work for the time being! Yay! Don't get me wrong, I enjoy traveling, its the "for work" part that kind of stinks. I got to meet up with several friends who live in the area, including celebrating Miss. Fab's new J.O.B.!!

Hope ya'll have great weekends too! I can't believe it is already the second week of November...will be Thanksgiving before we know it! Shew!

OOT

2011-11-02T08:00:00.003-04:00

I'm in Chicago until Sunday! Be back next week with lots of pics! Anywhere I just have to go? I'm meeting up with several locals while there, so I should have good guides!

And isn't this lovely? I can do without the snow though!

Have a great rest of the week & weekend!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T21:23:00.002-04:00

Feels like it has been Halloween for days...Thursday I took Logan to a Halloween party, then Friday I went to our Junior League Halloween party. Now again tonight we have trick-or-treating etc. So, here's a recap of my Halloween in pictures:

My fighter pilot Thursday night

And then Max for school on Friday (he wore this one for trick or treating today too)

Like I posted before, I was a snow owl Friday night, I ordered the headband off etsy and made the dress.

haha attempting to "whoooo" like an owl

Saturday I went with a group of girlfriends to a local winery, Talon. We had such a wonderful time tasting wines, enjoying the beautiful scenery, and just having girl time!

Getting Britt up on the barrel to "tebow." I'm not a FL fan so I was unfamiliar with this!

Then we all headed to a local bar/restaurant to watch the game. We posted up on the couches by the fireplace for well over 5 hours. Lots of fun!!

And looky what came in the mail today after the long wait! My Pippa bag! Its beautiful in person, I love it! Good mail day :) I will however note that it did not come with a shoulder strap as the bag in my last post had. Maybe they have discontinued this?

movie review

2011-10-28T11:33:00.002-04:00

Melancholia. Errr...all I have to say is it is super long, super weird, and rather depressing! I guess in terms of cinematography it is lovely. And I love Kiki! If you want to read a real review of the film, go here. I wish I could find a better pic of Kiki's wedding look in the movie, I loved it!

warning!! do NOT order from this etsy seller!

2011-10-27T08:00:00.002-04:00

Just a heads up ya'll, do NOT purchase from theroyalprincess shop on Etsy. She will lie to you and does not complete orders in a timely fashion, even if she has promised to have them to you by a specific date. Such a disappointment to see such an untruthful person selling on Etsy, where I have only had good transactions in the past. I ordered a shirt from her for Logan to wear for pictures last weekend, only to be disappointed :(

my pumpkins

2011-10-26T10:42:00.000-04:00

and my favorite lil' pumpkin this morning after school,

halloween costume ideas

2011-10-24T09:55:00.000-04:00

Hello lovelies!! Happy Monday! Its super dreary here today, but lots to do this week!

Do ya'll have your Halloween costumes chosen? I'll tell you what I'm going to be...but if you're going to the same party as me don't show up in my costume or I'll cut you! hahaha. Only half kidding ;)

I'm going to be a snowy owl...See inspiration pics below:

I don't have the costume made yet, but I've ordered a white puffy, feathery headband. I'm going to attempt to make a little shift dress like the top picture. Is she not a doll?! I'm making it out of felt, so how hard can it really be?

Another idea I had was to be Madeline, the children's book character.

This cape would be easy to make out of felt. Just use hot glue, no sewing!

Can't find a yellow hat? Wear a yellow flower in your hair!

and found this on Polyvore...cute!

meooow

2011-10-20T15:05:00.000-04:00

Ben's bday weekend

2011-10-18T13:27:00.000-04:00

Ben was able to come home for the weekend, so we celebrated his birthday early. He has been out of town for work for more than 6 weeks, so it was SOOO good to have him home, even if it was short lived! We went to Keeneland again on Saturday then a bunch of us went to dinner to celebrate Saturday night. Did a big family bday dinner Sunday and then he had to go back up north :( But he had a great birthday weekend! Happy birthday (yesterday) to my woobie!! Love you!

of course he and I didn't get a good picture together :(

Dear Modalu,

2011-10-13T11:31:00.002-04:00

Please hurry up and get this bag back in stock. I really, really want it. My friend Shannon has one and its beau-tee-full!!

edit: looks like Modalu reads Just Lovely...bag is now on its way to moi! yay!

weekend recap

2011-10-11T09:54:00.000-04:00

It's October in the Bluegrass which means its Keeneland time!! Fall is always super busy, I had a weekend jam-packed full of events!

Friday night we had a Junior League social where we filled Halloween treat bags to drop at local agencies for the kids served there. We don't get to just hang out much, so it was a great time...and we made a ton of bags! Going to be some happy kids, and some rotten teeth!

After the Junior League event, I met of with a group of friends to celebrate Lauren's bday!

Went to the races with a group of girls Saturday and had a wonderful time! Danielle came to town and stayed with me, love her!

Then Sunday we went to Boyds Orchard with Logan. He has a blast!

After the Orchard on Sunday, I had another JLL event at the Bodley Bullock House (our headquarters). It was the Sustainer Tea, where sustainers (non-active members) got to meet & mingle with our provisional class. The weather couldn't have been more perfect for a garden party!

A very full and wonderful weekend!! How was yours?

Minted Winner!

2011-10-10T09:55:00.000-04:00

Thank you to all of you who entered, and thank you for reading Just Lovely!!

dont' forget to enter my Minted giveaway

2011-10-06T10:00:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow is the last day to enter! Be sure to leave a comment on my previous post if you would like to be entered for a chance to win the $100 Minted.com giveaway!

P.S.A. in the form of a flowchart

2011-10-05T12:24:00.000-04:00

Am I Wearing Pants?

An Important Style Flowchart

There's a series of questions a lady needs to ask herself before she leaves the house: did I put eyeliner on both lids? Is the iron off as to avoid burning down the house? Have I tightly closed the lotion I just threw into my bag? Do I have my lipgloss? Also, am I wearing pants?

Just kidding about the last one -- that's reserved for the likes of La Lohan, et al. But just in case you're ever doubting your legwear or you come across a passerby whose style is begging to be informed, Amy Sly has whipped up this handy flowchart to answer all of everyone's questions and more.

{click to enlarge)

From HUFFPOST STYLE via Capitol Hill Style (ma fave style blogger!)

Wicked Good Treats!

2011-10-04T10:00:00.000-04:00

$40 (+$10 s/h)

It's quite large, the form was 24" and the mesh sticks out several more inches.

Email me if you would like to purchase this super cute Halloween wreath!

Minted.com giveaway

2011-10-03T14:42:00.000-04:00

I was so excited when Minted.com contacted me to host a giveaway for them!! If you aren't yet familiar with their paper products you better scoot on over to their site and check it out! They have the loveliest cards, invitations, stationary and more. Seriously beautiful paper goods.

Minted just added their new Holiday 2011 collection to their website, they have some of the most unique holiday cards our there...very custom looking. It's time to start planning your holiday cards..you've got to get those pictures taken! Honest to goodness there are so many great designs to choose from I'm sure you will have a difficult time deciding on just one! (I'd recommend narrowing down your picture choices first so you can imagine them with the designs incorporated.)

So, if it helps, here are my favorite designs:

Leave a comment and you will be signed up to win a $100 credit toward any Halloween, Holiday, Christmas, or New Years cards!! Giveaway end Friday, October 7th. Look for the winner to be announced next Monday!

Thanks again to Minted.com!

www.minted.com

Away

2011-09-28T09:58:00.000-04:00

I'm in Amelia Island until Sunday night...soaking up the sun, relaxing, oh and doing a little work too :)

Ya'll have a lovely week & weekend!

10 steps to a LOVELY day

2011-09-27T11:11:00.003-04:00

thanks chels :)

eat a cookie, give to charity...

2011-09-23T10:23:00.000-04:00

Just got this in my inbox from Panera...kinda stingy on the whole

8 day period, but who doesn't love cookies?! Go get some!

"For each Pumpkin-shaped Cookie sold between

September 24th and October 1st, fifty cents will be donated to benefit

Make-A-Wish Foundation^®"

Lifeguard Press Review

2011-09-22T15:37:00.000-04:00

Lifeguard Press sent me this Lilly Pulitzer laptop bag to review and I highly recommend it! I was carrying a super cute Kate Spade case, but as cute as it was it was rather inconvenient because it had no handles. However, this bag has both top handles and a strap. It has been very handy for all the traveling I've been doing for work. There is a separate pocket for chargers etc, and the big compartment zips closed. Plenty of room to carry a binder and files as well!

Laptop Case w/ Strap

football wreath!

2011-09-21T15:42:00.000-04:00

Email me if you'd like to purchase a wreath in your school colors! (blue and white anyone?!?!)

$30 + $10s/h

recent travels: Boston

2011-09-20T12:53:00.000-04:00

Got there Thursday night and went to Fashion's Night Out

View of the city from my hotel

Stopped by David Yurman for some dress-up!

Had brunch and shopped Sunday with a lovely twitter friend!

9/11 recognition in the park

Make Way for Ducklings

View from my water taxi

Had some great seafood (see next pic)

Biggest shrimp I've ever seen!! And they came in this ice globe thing...awesome!

Water taxi ride home, skyline at night

Loved love LOVED Boston! Can't wait to go back!

gone again

2011-09-15T18:56:00.002-04:00

I'm in Nashville through the weekend for work!

Missing the UK v. UofL game at home, but owell.

Be back Monday, I still have to share pics from my Boston trip. LOVED that city!

Have a lovely weekend my dears!

Where I Come From

2011-09-13T15:28:00.000-04:00

I though I'd share this article from the San Francisco Chronicle about my hometown, Lexington, KY.

I wholeheartedly believe that I live in the most beautiful state in the country. Ya'll should pay us a visit...in fact, next month, October, is just about the perfect time to come to the Bluegrass!

"Kentucky's bluegrass region is easy to enjoy"

The first time I saw Kentucky I was behind the wheel of a car. I was in a hurry. I was leaving New York state, bound for California, and as I drove cross-country with my worldly goods, the vastness of America blended into a blur of truck stops, toxic coffee and bleary-eyed days wiping bugs off the windshield. I didn't even stop for gas in Kentucky, but something about the hopelessly pretty, lovingly manicured quality of the countryside stayed with me down the decades.

Just lately, I decided to revisit Kentucky, specifically the bluegrass region that wraps around Lexington, in the north-central part of the state. I want the full Southern monty without the drunks of New Orleans, the urban hell of Atlanta or the preciousness of Charleston or Savannah. I also want to avoid the climatic deep fryer of the Deep South. Kentucky, hovering on the edge of the Midwest, with a smooth blend of elegance and down-home charm, is an appealing alternative, especially in autumn and spring when the weather is fine.

Flying into Lexington's aptly named Blue Grass Airport, I feel I'm flying into a garden. I pass over expansive, immaculately kept horse-breeding farms, meandering white fences tracing the soft contours of the land, canopies of trees and green, green grass flecked with the farm ponds I remember from my drive-by all those years ago. It takes maybe 0.3 seconds to exit the small, sweet airport located just across the road from Keeneland Race Course and motor along Man O' War Boulevard, past the turnoff to Sport Horse Lane and on toward downtown Lexington, a city of 300,000.

Happily, you don't have to be a horsey person or a high roller - I am neither - to have a good time. The bluegrass region - so-called thanks to abundant Poa pratensis grass and its blue-tinged flower - has a variety of attractions to offer. Silky-smooth, locally distilled straight Kentucky bourbon, for one. Rich pioneer and Civil War history, for another. The redbrick cafes, restaurants and bars of Lexington's lively, compact downtown. The cavernous Valhalla of hoop dreams, Rupp Arena, where the hometown University of Kentucky Wildcats play basketball. Intricate, fast-fingered bluegrass music. Robust regional food that goes beyond KFC, biscuits and gravy. And, not least, lovely drives through leafy landscapes....

Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2011/09/09/TREA1KS5RN.DTL#ixzz1XrWSVAOs

look for less - wedges

2011-09-12T09:00:00.002-04:00

Saw these Lucia Suede Platform Wedges at Ann Taylor and totally fell in love with them. But, they seemed a bit trendy to spend the $198 on them. But they are lovely!

So today I was pursuing Piperlime and saw these Monet Matisse wedges and like them even more...I like the price tag more too! ha! They are $110 and you can get 15% off if you sign up for Piperlime emails. The wedge has more more of a slim shape so it's not as clunky looking as the AT ones.

10 years

2011-09-11T09:00:00.001-04:00

I cannot believe it has ben ten years since that fateful day when America was attacked...I was a sophomore in high school, and I remember I was between classes, at my locker, when my friend came up to me and asked "Did you hear NYC was bombed?" We went to our next class, english, our teacher had the news on and we watched those terrible images and scenes unfold. What a terrifying day. Where were you when you heard of the terrorist attacks on September 11th?

Today, ten years later, all the Americans who lost their lives in the attacks are not for gotten. Nor are the Americans who have fought for our country in the years after 2001. We are more than blessed to live in this amazing country.

God Bless America!

LEX to BOS

2011-09-08T09:00:00.003-04:00

I'm off to Boston for work until Tuesday! I'm super excited, as I have never been to New England! (I've been to NYC, but that doesn't count!) Any suggestions on things to do, places to see, and restaurants to visit?! (I'll be staying at Copley Place - Huntington Ave)

ma new kicks

2011-09-07T10:59:00.001-04:00

I've been eyeing these babies for a while now... && now that you can purchase ZARA online in the US (starting today yay!!), I snatched them up!

Court Shoe With Cap-Toe

Welcome to the world of e-commerce, ZARA (and 2011 for that matter)!

TDF

2011-09-06T11:15:00.001-04:00

Ya'll!!! How gorgeous is this headboard from...wait for it...Target!?! Parchment poly-cotton blend with nailhead trim, beautiful! And it's only $379.99 with free shipping for a Queen! I'm in loooove!

Must have...and it is darn well time I up-sized to a Queen!

Monogram Kindle case

2011-09-02T12:07:00.002-04:00

When I tweeted a pic of my new monogram Kindle case I had several people ask where I purchased it, so I thought I'd do a post...

I bought the actual case off ebay for $19.99. You can get one HERE...they have several colors in their shop. I love it because you can fold the front cover back, and secure it with the elastic band and then there is a little pocket to slip your hand through so you can hold it.

Then I went to etsy and ordered a 3" vinyl monogram to stick on the front for $3.75 (including shipping). I got mine from THIS shop.

Voilà ! You have a personalized Kindle cover for less than $25! And I shopped around, you cannot find a monogram cover for that price, or one that is that cute!

Have a lovely weekend ladies!!

weekend recap..yea, i know its wednesday

2011-08-31T12:25:00.002-04:00

My birthday weekend was a BLAST! Lots of good friends, food and lounging by the pool!

Pics from my party Friday night:

Mrs. D swaddled all the guys after they got out of the pool...Good practice for a baby D that I hope will be coming soon! :)

It's my party...and I can bong beers if I want too...

Pug love

Gift from Mrs. D...she got me the wine sippies I blogged about! and they are just as cute in person!

German chocolate, my fave!

Yummy food

and drinks (watermelon mojitos are amazing!)

me and my sweet logy bear

gift from Poe :)

sissy and logan

my grill master

Cam being bar tender

they guys...

Katherine & Katherine

Me and Lauren

26 on the 26th

2011-08-26T09:00:00.001-04:00

today is my "golden birthday"...

26 on the 26th...

i'll think about age tomorrow...

but today i'll celebrate another wonderful year!

CHEERS!!

2011-08-23T11:00:00.001-04:00

1. Drapes 2. Rose Color 3. Floral 4. Green Lattice 5. Blue Pattern

I also really love:

This navy pillow

This birdy pillow

And this linen pillow

Miracle Worker

2011-08-22T15:15:00.001-04:00

I'm thinking of ordering some products form Philosophy's Miracle Worker line...have you all tried any of these products? I have heard and read good thing, was curious as to whether you all would recommend?

The area around my eyes keep me up at night...they aren't puffy, but its like when I wake up in the morning there seem to be fine lines and then by the early morning they are gone. I don't know what gives, but I'm afraid I have full-blown crows feet in my near future! (gasp!)

May just purchase the trial kit to test it out..

thoughts?

and the winner is...

2011-08-19T14:42:00.000-04:00

Miss Lindsay!

Please email me (justlovelykatherine@yahoo.com) your shipping information and I'll get your Lilly P croakies and koozie out in the mail!

Thanks to all of you who entered! Have a lovely weekend ladies!

please pray

2011-08-18T09:00:00.000-04:00

My Nanny is having surgery tomorrow morning. Please pray that there are no complications and that she has a speedy recovery. There is a chance that the surgery might cause her kidneys to fail, so we are praying that this does not happen.

Everyone says I take after Nanny! I got my craftiness & creativeness from her. Ha, I also got my, errr...sassiness from her as well :)

I would appreciate your thoughts and prayers! Thanks loves!

red?

2011-08-16T16:08:00.000-04:00

Emma makes me want to try being a redhead this fall. She is so stinkin' pretty! However, my complexion tends to be rosy, do you think that will look bad with red hair? My hair has a lot of red in it already (my brother is a ginger, ha!)

ummm....hello gorgeous!

If you haven't gone to see Miss. Emma in "The Help" yet, you better get yo' butt to the theater ASAP! It is SOO good! Seriously just as good as the book, IMHO.

giveaway

2011-08-15T13:13:00.001-04:00

The lovely ladies over at Lifeguard Press sent me some fun Lilly Pulitzer items to review and I wanted to share with ya'll!

I'm giving away this Lilly koozie and croakies. Just leave a comment to enter. I will announce the winner on Friday.

Still some summer left! Enjoy the rest of these hot, sunny days with some Lilly P accessories!

Us Weekly for 30 bucks!

2011-08-12T10:27:00.000-04:00

Did ya'll see the Living Social deal for a one-year subscription to Us Weekly Magazine for just $30!? I always pick these up in the check out aisle and pay about $3 per magazine. So 52 of them for $30 is a great deal!

Get yours HERE!

ready for tailgating!!

2011-08-11T10:00:00.001-04:00

UK gals (or those of you who need blue&white, could add orange accessories for FL!)

Get it here from LE Canvas for just $35

waaaaa??

2011-08-10T10:00:00.000-04:00

wine glasses with straws?!?!? #need

purchase here

birthday lust list

2011-08-09T12:00:00.000-04:00

love this "luck necklace"... delicate, pretty & who couldn't use a little luck?!

from HERE

welcome to 2011

2011-08-08T14:25:00.000-04:00

Yea, I know I'm a little late on this, but I finally ordered a kindle! I'm excited to get it in the mail. You all know I love to read and the Kindle is just so much more portable for traveling for work and whatnot. The books are way less expensive and you can share too!

Up next on my reading list are:

"The Hunger Games" series by Suzanne Collins
Emily Griffin's "Something Borrowed," "Something Blue," "The Heart of the Matter," and "Love the One Your With"
Chris Cleave's "Little Bee"
Karen White's "The Lost Hours," "The House on Tradd St," "The Girl on Legare St.," "The Memory of Water," "Learning to Breath," "On Folly Beach," "Falling Home," "Pieces of the Heart," and "The Color of Light" (ha, this might take a while)

Have any Kindle books you want to share with moi?!

little girl gifts

2011-08-05T11:33:00.000-04:00

I gave little miss Ava this super cute Lilly Pulitzer Paper Dolls set from Lifeguard Press for her 3rd birthday. She loved them! And everyone loved the adorable mini paper shifts :)

GREAT gift idea for any of the little ladies in your life!

Have a lovely weekend, ya'll!

book review

2011-08-04T10:07:00.000-04:00

This was a cute, quick read. Great for the beach or relaxing pool-side!

Buy Here

Shopaholicpowerhouse Kinsella delights again with her latest, a winning if unoriginal tale of amnesia striking an ambitious shrew and changing her life for the better. After taking a nasty bump on the head, Lexi Smart awakens in a hospital convinced that it's 2004 and that she's just missed her father's funeral. It's actually three years later, and she no longer has crooked teeth, frizzy hair and a loser boyfriend. Initially wowed by what she's become—a gorgeous, cut-throat businesswoman—Lexi soon finds herself attempting to figure out how it happened. As her personality change and lost memory threaten her job, Lexi tries to dredge up some chemistry with her handsome albeit priggish husband, Eric, though the effort is unnecessary with Eric's colleague Jon, who tells Lexi that she was about to leave Eric for him. Amnesia tales may be old hat, but Kinsella keeps things fresh and frothy with workplace politicking, romantic intrigue and a vibrant (though sometimes caricatured) cast. Though the happy ending won't come as a surprise, readers will be rooting for Lexi all along.

bday lust list #2

2011-08-01T08:00:00.000-04:00

Saw these on a wedding blog and fell in love...How adorable are these Catbird rings?

I want a K <3 B or KJT...

back to school

2011-07-29T13:06:00.000-04:00

made this lil back to school wreath for a teacher to put on her classroom door!

bday lust list

2011-07-25T12:54:00.000-04:00

I want:

Timex

attn UK gals

2011-07-23T10:00:00.000-04:00

just ordered this shift dress from ASOS. perfect for early fall football games when its still so hot out...oh and it's on sale for just $25.86 :)

50 classics

2011-07-22T11:25:00.002-04:00

need to accumulate...

(click to enlarge)

birthday treats

2011-07-07T09:10:00.002-04:00

Several of my good friends have birthdays coming up...may have to make these for them! Or maybe for Logan's bday...he will be 4 after all, may be more age appropriate!!

You'll need:

cupcakes baked and frosted
sugar cones
candy melts
Large round sprinkles (optional)
small sprinkles
Large jelly candies

Get full directions HERE

the best of times

2011-07-06T09:18:00.001-04:00

hey hey! hope ya'll had a great holiday weekend filled with family, friends and fun! i definitely did!

started the weekend off right (and early) at Thursday Night Live:

Had dinner with some friends at their new home on Friday night and spent all of Saturday by the pool then out downtown with some girlfriends:

Sunday hung out in the sun all day again, had lunch with some girlfriends on the patio and then laid by the pool with some cocktails:

then got cleaned up for a bbq and a fab fireworks show Sunday evening:

it was super muggy out

Monday was my family day...got up super early to be at the local race by 7:30 (i am NOT a morning person)

my sweet pea in his "run uncle ben" t i made for him to wear. he had the best time ever playing with all the other kids at the party. def took a nice long nap after we got home, he was all tuckered out!

the spread (my bb pics aren't too great, it was very pretty!)

me and B...got up early to cheer our guys on:

Bonnie & Dave host this party every year. I've showed you all their house before...I absolutly love it! I would totally live on that deep front porch!

After napping, we headed downtown for the city festivities. Parade and street festival. The sun ended up coming out and it was hot hot hot...miz.

I let Logan play in one of the fountains downtown. yea, i'm eaither the best aunt ever or the worst aunt ever! hope he didn't pick up any diseases in there! but hey, i'm pretty sure they have chloring in them?! right?

got my first sunburn of the summer...and hopefully last. i always wear at least spf 50 but completely slipped my mind before we headed downtown since it was cloudy and rainy at the time. hate that...i'm paranoid abt skin cancer and wrinkles!

and then rounded off the weekend with a family bbq and another big fireworks show...and then i went home and crashed!

have a lovely 4 day week! today is already Wednesday! I'm in Knoxville for work until tomorrow night and then its almost the weekend again! wooooohoooo!

To Do:

2011-06-30T11:40:00.000-04:00

Need to make my annual "Go Ben" sign for his race on Monday. Sadly, he didn't get one last year bc I was so busy studying for the bar. But this year I will do better!! May even do a t-shirt...ya know, for a hands-free-fan!

Making these for our annual early morning party (where we all watch the BG 10,000 race). Easy peasy...just dip strawberries in white chocolate (or candy melt) and then dip in blue sprinkles! yummy and patriotic-cute!

And look at my sweet Logan on his first 4th of July in 2008 :)

Wedding Gown for sale

2011-06-29T09:00:00.002-04:00

A friend of mine is selling her brand new, never worn, wedding gown....

Asking $1,200 OBO.

"For sale is a Sottero and Midgley wedding gown. JSM 1103 is the model number. It is a strapless, slim A-line with a sweetheart neckline. The material of the dress is satin and a lace overlay. The color is very pretty- a light gold with an ivory lace overlay. The lace is lightly beaded with swarovski crystals and small pearls. The dress is brand new and has never been worn. This is an excellent opportunity to buy a brand new, beautiful dress for a very discounted price. The dress is a size 4 petite and has very minimal alterations done, as it is a corset back, so it is VERY adjustable to various body types and sizes. The only alterations done to this dress were it was given a french bussell for the train in the back, and cups were placed in the interiorbust area to add a slight lift. Paid over $1,700 for dress (including alterations). I also have a very nice, brand new Toni Federici veil (that matches the dress perfectly!) available for sale at a very good and discounted price."

Email Rebecca at rjdelong19@aol.com if you are interested.

well said.

2011-06-28T09:57:00.001-04:00

I struggle with finding balance between being grateful for all I have and my ambitions in life.

How do you find the balance?

in the bag... @ Piperlime

2011-06-27T10:47:00.001-04:00

Have these two lovelies in my bag at Piperlime. Loving the Ark & Co line!

Blouse

Dress

And how cute are these for just $20?!

Earrings

I totally love this Amanda Uprichard dress! Think I need it for the upcoming Junior League gala!

Pink&Orange Dress

On their way to me are this navy and white dress for the 4th, and these earrings that can be worn with anything!

Blue&White Dress

Stud Earrings

Denver post...a little late

2011-06-26T21:03:00.000-04:00

Went to Denver for work...it was so beautiful there! I'd never been before. Here is a recap in (mostly) pictures:

It was hot there but there is NO humidity. Amazing! It is stupid humid here in KY, so this was certainly a lovely change. What wasn't nice, was that my allergies were horrible there...think it was the sage?

Hotel where The Shining was filmed

not a bad view, eh?!

Up close and personal with some Elk

I fed them some of this...

ok, so not really. that would be like forced cannibalism.

I was exhausted when I finally made it back to the Bluegrass last Sunday. Left for the airport in Denver at 4am and arrived home around midnight. ugh.

anyhooo...True Blood is coming on right now...got to run! LOVE it!!

#wreaths

2011-06-24T10:12:00.000-04:00

Get your front door ready for the upcoming holiday!! Place an order for my Stars & Stripes wreath today! Email me at justlovelykatherine@yahoo.com

Also wanted to show ya'll the latest custom design for one of my fave fellow junior leaguers!

Book Review - Her Fearful Symmetry

2011-06-14T10:00:00.004-04:00

Her Fearful Symmetry by Audrey Niffenegger

This novel was a awesome! A nice change to the usual love story books I tend to read. Don't get me wrong, there is a love story (or two) in this book...but it also involves ghosts, a cemetery, and all sorts of interesting plots! I highly recommend you read! I will however say, that this book took a couple of chapters for me to get into it...so stick with it if you start to disengage.

"Amazon Best of the Month, September 2009: Following her breakout bestseller, The Time Traveler's Wife, Audrey Niffenegger returns with Her Fearful Symmetry, a haunting tale about the complications of love, identity, and sibling rivalry. The novel opens with the death of Elspeth Noblin, who bequeaths her London flat and its contents to the twin daughters of her estranged twin sister back in Chicago. These 20-year-old dilettantes, Julie and Valentina, move to London, eager to try on a new experience like one of their obsessively matched outfits. Historic Highgate Cemetery, which borders Elspeth's home, serves as an inspired setting as the twins become entwined in the lives of their neighbors: Elspeth's former lover, Robert; Martin, an agoraphobic crossword-puzzle creator; and the ethereal Elspeth herself, struggling to adjust to the afterlife. Niffenegger brings these quirky, troubled characters to marvelous life, but readers may need their own supernatural suspension of disbelief as the story winds to its twisty conclusion. --Brad Thomas Parsons"

Reading about London's Highgate Cemetery got me interested in the history of the place so I did some googling. Was interesting to be able to picture the setting of the book as I read. Here is what I found....

A HOUSE built in the cemetery. WHO would want to live here? Cool house...creepy neighbors.

who doesn't dream of having this view from their bed?! hmmm!

House in Highgate Cemetery, London, by Eldridge Smerin Architects
Set next to Highgate Cemetery, London’s greatest Victorian cemetery, the house was designed by the architects Nick Eldridge and Piers Smerin.
Its generous proportion of living to bedroom space includes terraces and balconies, and a sizable sliding glass rooflight enabling the top floor to become an openair court.
The project won a Royal Institute of British Architects Award in 2009
More pictures can be found HERE.

Have you all ever visited this cemetery? London is on my short-list of places to visit...may have to check out Highgate.

weekend

2011-06-13T12:10:00.000-04:00

How was your weekend?! Too short, I'm sure!

Mine was great! Participated in Relay For Life with some Junior League of Lexington ladies. That was Fri-Sat.

Spent the rest of Saturday lounging by the pool...& Sunday took this lil' dude to the pool. He had a big time!

Went to Tolly Ho late night. For those of you who don't know, Tolly Ho is a UK staple. However they recently were forced to relocate and the new local is just not the same. Now I didn't go there often in college, and certainly hadn't been since then...but now its a, ehhh, questionable/scary crowd!

annnnnd we had the BEST cab ride home ever! Driver from Jordan pretended we were on cash cab...hilarious!!

PS...I ordered this in a M and its too big (fits more like an 8/10) so I'm selling it for $30 (includes shipping)...let me know if you're interested!