Miss Janice

CELEBRITIES AND THE BIRKIN BAG

2012-01-28T09:00:00.001-04:00

Yes, celebrities do love the Birkin bag. Birkins are all over Hollywood and Beverly Hills!

Bless Martha Stewart's heart, she carried her brown Birkin into court everyday during her stock fraud trial!

Beautiful Juliana Rancic, with her handsome husband Bill on one arm and her noir Birkin on the other! They are a gorgeous couple and she is certainly a fan of the Birkin!
Melissa Rivers is photographed with her Mama, Joan Rivers. Melissa is carrying a stunning graphite Birkin.
Nicole Richie...de rigueur pooch on one arm and a noir Birkin on the other.
Lord have mercy, the Kardashian girls and Mama Kris at a Lakers game...they are all fans of the Birkin. LOVE their iris Birkins and of course the noir Birkin. Kim Kardashian is a huge fan of the Birkin and reportedly has tons of them, but...
Not even Kim Kardashian can stand up to the "Queen of Carrying Birkins" Victoria 'Posh' Beckham. The former Spice Girl owns approximately 100 Birkins...the value of her collection--TWO MILLION U.S. DOLLARS!!! You can read about her collection at The Daily Mail here.

'Posh' truly lives up to her stage name since she carries the extravagant handbag on one arm and has her handsome husband David on the other.

Victoria carrying a gorgeous wine croc Birkin.
Here's Miss Priss with her white Birkin. Lord, I wouldn't want the white one. For one thing, if I got one spot of anything on it, I would just die. Another thing, I could only carry this pocketbook from Easter to Labor Day. Not cost effective at all! But, it's cute!
Victoria and her pink ostrich Birkin...please check out the prissy way she's holding the bag! Lord, Victoria can pose.
Now, here's Victoria with my favorite--the orange Birkin. I love her dress and her whole look here!
Showing off her toned arms and her taupe Birkin. Wow!
This is a somewhat demure look for Victoria...carrying her golden tan Birkin.
My, my! I do love her baby blue Birkin!
Miss Janice could definitely rock this outfit. Love the skirt, the white twin sweater set and the lavender Birkin. I would add a pearl necklace, pearl stud earrings, and a pair of white Revas! Oh, and my Chanel sunglasses. Yes ma'am!
For a lady who collects the world's most coveted handbag and "has the most Birkins", this is her "Crown Birkin" with a price of $104,000. It's the Himalayan croc Birkin, with a three-carat diamond on the lock. What can I say y'all?

There are many blogs devoted to the Birkin Bag obsession, but I really like BIRKIN WATCHER . You can view photos of all the celebs stepping out with their Birkins and anything Hermes.

Tomorrow, I'll be back to talk about the fun book "Bringing Home the Birkin: My Life in Hot Pursuit of the World's Most Coveted Handbag" by Michael Tonello.

ALL ABOUT THE BIRKIN BAG

2012-01-27T15:18:00.024-04:00

Hermes signifies luxury, style, and elegance. The Birkin bag...very pricey--from $9,000 up to $150,000!
The Birkin...Shame on Pinterest...all those cute photos of Birkins now have me wanting one real bad.

The bag is of course by Hermes and is a symbol of wealth, due to its high price and elusiveness to the public.

The bag is named for the British haute-hippie singer and actress Jane Birkin. In 1984, on a flight from Paris to London, she had a chance meeting with Hermes Chief Executive Jean-Louis Dumas. When the contents of her purse fell to the floor from the overhead bin, she explained it had been difficult for her to find a leather weekend bag that she liked...He created the Birkin just for her.

Last year she listed her Birkin on ebay and it sold to a lucky shopaholic for approximately $158,000!!! Wow...and that money went to the Red Cross efforts in Japan.

Jane Birkin...last year with her famous bag and back in her younger days.
Here's a close-up photo of Jane's black Birkin...with stickers, Lord have mercy! Of course, Hermes offers a "spa treatment"--a reconditioner for over used bags!
Hermes has a long history, dating back to when the company was founded in 1837. The Birkin is the most recognized bag in the fashion industry. The only bags that come close are the 'Kelly' bag, also made by Hermes and the '2.55', by Chanel. The Birkin is a casual, sport handbag, but of course, can be worn WITH ANYTHING...well, not a ball gown outfit y'all!

Birkins are sold in a range of sizes {25, 30, 35, 40, 50, & 55 centimeters}, hides {calf leather, ostrich, croc, & lizard}, colors {pink, red, brown, baby blue, navy blue, olive green, orange, white, black, & golden tan. The metallic hardware are plated with gold or palladium.

The bags are handmade in France by expert artisians who spend 48 hours on the average bag.

There are over 240 Hermes boutiques internationally. Hermes does not offer their bags online and of course, there has always been that rumored 'waiting list'. Rumor has it now, that with the nasty economy issues, there is no longer a 'waiting list'. Well, does that make the famous handbag any less covetable? What do y'all think? I called an Hermes boutique and inquired about the availability of the bag. The 'Snooty Sales Clerk' said that she was not allowed to discuss the Birkin bag over the telephone. Lord have mercy! I think y'all know how I feel about 'Snooty Sales Clerks'!

It was at that point that I decided to go into my investigative mode! I'm all obsessed with the Birkin now. Who knows, my husband just might hit the lottery one day and I will have that sweet orange Birkin inside my closet.

Tomorrow, I'll be back to talk more about my new obsession...The swanky Birkin bag:

~Would you Buy a Fake Birkin? "How to Spot a Fake Birkin"
~Celebrities and the Birkin bag
~"Bringing Home the Birkin" a book written by Michael Tonello about his whirlwind Birkin-buying tour.

Flower Blooming Art Tea

2012-01-24T04:00:00.001-04:00

Art Tea. Blooming Tea. Flower Tea. Those are some of the names used for a category of tea that is the dried tea leaves and flowers which are hand-tied into balls the size of a large marble. The other day I had a chance to sit down and really enjoy the latest edition of "TeaTime Magazine" and sip some Flower Tea. I have a been a faithful reader of this Hoffman Media Publication since their very first issue. The magazine is always filled with delightful teascapes, recipes for tea party foods, and interesting tearooms around the Country.
"TeaTime Magazine" is also celebrating National Hot Tea Month during January...you can visit their Facebook HERE and find a lot of great tea ideas!
The Flower Tea I steeped in a glass pot is 'Jasmine Fairy Maidens,' available at Harney Tea. This tea is sweetly flavored with jasmine flowers and has a vegetal flavor. It is a very light tasting tea. The water for this tea should be heated to 180 degrees and the tea ball steeped for 3-5 minutes. When steeped, the green tea leaves gradually blossom revealing a cluster of orange flowers perched atop a sphere of tea, while the jasmine petals blossom upwards. This tea may be infused 3 or more times.
The tea leaves and flowers are shaped into a ball, the size of a large marble...
Flower teas make great centerpieces or may be presented in a goblet.
A buttermilk scone and my homemade strawberry preserves pair well with the very light tea.

Remember that there are many health benefits of tea...it helps to lower your cholesterol and blood pressure, aids in digestion and weight loss, and of course the caffeine gives you a boost of energy...a pick-me-up in the afternoon!

Practice hospitality...serve someone tea!

TEAM PAULA DEEN!

2012-01-18T14:38:00.032-04:00

That's right y'all, I'm on Miss Paula's side. Bless her heart, she's been in all the media this week 'cuz she revealed that she's got Diabetes 2! I feel for Paula...cooking her down-home Southern Style dishes is now a threat to her life. Of course, she went on the Today Show and revealed her diagnosis to the world and that she has partnered with Novo Nordisk in a campaign to promote their drug Victoza. Now people are criticizing her for continuing to pedal her fat-laden recipes to the world even though she knew that she had the disease.

Last night I hit the kitchen...wearing my Paula Deen "Hey Y'all" apron, my stretchy pants, some cute polka dot mitts, and baked up a Paula Deen classic recipe in my red Paula Deen casserole dish. TEAM PAULA DEEN.

Which team are you on? Team Anthony Bourdain or Team Paula Deen?

Anthony Bourdain, Chef & Author. On his Travel Network Channel show "No Reservations," Bourdain travels the world seeking the ultimate dining experience. He's also a long-time critic of chefs on the Food Network. He has said "Paula Deen should feel bad before telling an already obese nation that it is okay to eat food that is killing us!" Excuse me, but this man eat snakes! Who is he to judge? He also criticizes Rachel Ray for using pre-chopped onions. Lord have mercy! Not on my radar anymore...

Paula Deen, The Queen of Southern Cuisine and Food Network star is now the spokesperson for "Diabetes in a New Light" a site run by pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk. Y'all know I'm a long-time support of Miss Paula...I buy her books, magazines, kitchen ware, aprons, foods, et cetera. But even I don't eat the calorie-laden, delicious foods all the time! In Paula's words to Oprah, "I'm your cook, not your Doctor!" Moderation y'all. Moderation. Team Paula Deen. Winning. None of us are perfect y'all and we all make mistakes. She doesn't eat snakes...

BUT, even though I love Paula and LOVE Southern foods, even I wouldn't eat this Krispy Kreme Doughnut Bread Pudding...One of Paula's Top 10 High-Calorie Foods.

Never even tried Paula's Twinkie Pie...another dish on the TOP 10 list...my LAWD!

This is one of her most high-calorie, artery clogging recipes...The Lady's Brunch Burger! LOL {Bacon-doughnut-egg-burger} Please people!

I am excited about the new "Light Dishes" Paula will be creating from her vault of "Best Dishes" recipes! You can tell she has already lightened up some of her recipes in the Jan/Feb issue of "Cooking with Paula Deen." However, I cannot help wondering what will become of the foods she serves at her restaurants...Will they remain the same? 'Cuz let's face it folks, when Southerners go out to eat Southern food, they want the REAL thing. We want our macaroni tres cheesy and our chicken fried just right. I cannot imagine visiting Paula's restaurant at Harrah's in Tunica and going through the buffet line of "Light Dishes." I'm stumped.

When I visited her new site HERE,I was happy to see that he has created a lighter version of "The Lady & Sons Lasagna." Of course, I had to go to the store for the ingredients and made it last night. Her new recipe calls for a LOT LESS ground beef {which I substituted with ground turkey} and all the cheeses I used were no-fat. I LOVED the lasagna!
The Jan/Feb issue of "Cooking with Paula Deen" already includes some "no-guilt" recipes!

I wish Paula the best with her new life and look forward to what she brings to the table next!!!

OH, and HAPPY BIRTHDAY PAULA DEEN!

I THOUGHT YOGA WAS FOR HIPPIES!

2012-01-17T06:00:00.001-04:00

I've heard about people going to Yoga classes and always thought it was something...well, a little strange! Like they sit on the floor with their legs crossed in positions that I could never get into, twist their bodies in crazy poses, and meditate.

When I saw the cute little Yoga mats on Marley Lilly's site, I thought hmmm, that might be something I could do! Before I even looked into the whole thing, I ordered my personalized pink and green Yoga mat. I thought the worst that could happen is that I would end up using it for floor exercises at home. How cute is it y'all?!
After I received the cute mat, I headed to the bookstore for this must-have Yoga book for dummies like myself!

Of course, my OCD kicked in and now I'm reading everything I can get my hands on about this practice that has been around for over a hundred years! Lord have mercy y'all, more than 15 million Americans practice Yoga. Now I'm learning all the Yoga lingo. I'm learning how it will help with my flexibility, help to control my weight {I've gained 10 lbs. since Halloween}, keep up my energy level, and help with spiritual discipline. OMMMM, I like that!

Of course, I'll be following Yoga Etiquette as outlined in the Dummies book.

Y'all know I have to have some cute Yoga outfits. I missed out on this cute Lilly outfit from awhile back...That's okay, 'cuz it wouldn't match my Yoga mat anyway! I can't have that, right?
So, I'll just paint my toenails pink, wear a pink ribbon on my ponytail and match up some pink, green, and white tees with these pink pants.

I'm off to create my "personal sanctuary" and look for some more cute Yoga outfits. Tonight is my very first Yoga class. Ready. Set. Yoga!

Teatime for Children

2012-01-11T08:00:00.001-04:00

National Hot Tea Month is the perfect time to have tea with children. Teatime is the perfect opportunity to teach children how to behave at the the table.
The secretary is set today for a Children's Tea.
"Children's Tea & Etiquette," by Dorothea Johnson, John Harney, and Ann Noyes is the perfect little book for those who want to breed good manners in young minds! This book is available on my sidebar under: "Miss Janice Recommends."From the invitations...to the thank-you notes, Ms. Johnson takes the reader through Introductions at Tea, Taking Your Chair, Napkin Etiquette, Drinking Tea, Eating the Tea Foods, Leaving the Table, Using Magical Words, The History of Tea, and Recipes for the Adults.

Children should be taught how to sit at the table...Sit up straight, with the hands resting on the lap. The tea napkin {serviette} is picked up and unfolded on the lap, not above the table. A tea serviette is opened completely. Children should be taught to blot their lips with their serviette...no wiping!

For children ages 3-5, serve a beverage like pink lemonade. It's important at this age that they learn how to hold the teacup and how to sip a beverage. For 6-8 year old children, you might serve a fruited tea at room temperature. For children 9 and up, you may serve a light hot tea.

Handling the Teacup:
Place the index finger through the handle, with the thumb placed on top of the handle to support the grip, and the second finger below the handle for added security. The next two fingers naturally follow the curve of the other fingers. It is considered an affection to raise the pinkie finger while sipping tea or any other beverage. Look into the teacup while sipping the beverage.
Savories, scones, and tea cakes are not necessary for 3-5 year-old children. It's best to serve them cookies/ cupcakes. For 6-8 year-old children, tea cakes, PBJ's, and fruit are more appropriate. For children ages 9 and up, a full course Afternoon Tea is de rigueur.

I placed a tea knife and fork at the setting, as this is the perfect time to teach children how to eat a cupcake with a knife and fork {we don't want to be messy, especially at teatime}.

There are two basic methods of handling & using table utensils at tea--the American style or the Continental style. You may teach your children one or both of the styles, but I believe it's easier for young children to learn the American style.

In both American & Continental style you cut your cupcake the same way. The fork is held in the left hand to secure the cake, and the knife is held in the right hand to cut the cake. Cut at the most one or two bites at a time.

In the American style, after you cut your cake, you then lay the knife on the tea plate, near the upper right edge with the cutting edge facing the center of the plate, and switch the fork to your right hand. Your left hand should remain in your lap unless you are cutting food. Holding the fork with the thumb over the end and the index finger underneath and the tines up, you then pick up the cake with the tines or slipping the cake onto tines and eat!

Be sure to rest your fork with tines at the 10 o'clock position and the handle at the 4 o'clock position when you are sipping your beverage. The knife rests on the upper right edge of your plate.

Remember to use the three-finger rule {use the thumb, middle, and index fingers} when picking up food with the fingers {cookies and cream puffs}:

Y'all have a tea-lite-ful day!!!

BCS National Championship Game

2012-01-09T19:00:00.001-04:00

Big GAMEDAY! Tonight is the BCS National Championship Game to determine the National Champion of the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision!

The players are the two highest ranked teams in BCS {Bowl Championship Series for those who aren't gameday savvy} standings at the end of the regular college football season. #2 Alabama and will meet up with #1 LSU at the New Orleans Superdome. I was in a tizzy as to which team I would cheer for...went back and forth.

Looked at the plus signs...Alabama being the state between two states that I love. Alabama is also home to Southern Living magazine and Southern Lady magazine. I also have a lot of blogger and twitter friends who are Bama fans.

Then I started looking at what I like about LSU. LOVE that they say "Geaux Tigers" instead of just "Go!" It's French. It's cute. And I like it. I also love the fleur de lis connection. But it was the fact that the fans eat beignets on Gameday that sold me. So, I'm on the LSU bandwagon!!! Been sippin' Chicory Coffee from Cafe du Monde all day...
I looked online and saw that we could find some tickets for $1,000+ each...Lord have mercy. Y'all know people will still be paying that price for seats to see this game!

I'm gonna watch the game from my sofa...wearing stretchy pants & a purple grosgrain ribbon on my ponytail and eating mini muffulettas* and red beans and rice & {turkey} sausage!I'll be tweeting all night and living vicariously through my lucky tweeps who are at the Superdome...Here's what I'd probably wear to the game...

Recipe for my Mini Muffulettas:

Boscoli Olive Spread
Ham
Salami
Provolone Cheese
Swiss Cheese

Slider Rolls

The Boscoli olive spread is simply the best y'all!!!

Geaux Tigers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Comfort Food Craving

2012-01-06T05:00:00.001-04:00

Cold weather calls for comfort food. It's been chilly here in South Florida and my cravings have turned from salads to down-home cooking. We don't eat red meat, so I made a Turkey Loaf Pie. It's a very easy recipe* and husband loved it! I added a few of my Taste of Gourmet products to ground turkey, bread crumbs, 2% cheddar cheese, and eggs.

Comfort food on a chilly winter night!
These are the Taste of Gourmet products I added...*Recipe for Southwest Turkeyloaf:

1 pkg Southwest Soup {Taste of Gourmet}
2 lbs. ground turkey
3 eggs
1/2 cup Tangy Tomato Dressing {Taste of Gourmet}
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup bread crumbs

Mix all ingredients, place in baking dish and bake at 350 degrees for about 1 hour. Serve topped with Suddenly Salsa {Taste of Gourmet}!

Please note: this recipe made enough for a pie and a small loaf pan.

HOTTY TODDIES AND TOASTY MITTENS

2012-01-03T17:00:00.001-04:00

Seems like it's cold everywhere today! Even South Florida is on it...they say it might freeze tonight. Lord have mercy. The flowers are all covered up around the town square and everybody was out and about town today dressed like a blizzard was coming to town!

Well, thank goodness for hot tea...whatever would I do without it? All of us Southerners have sipped Hot Toddies before...on a chilly gameday or just to soothe a sore throat and maybe ease the aches of the flu! I decided to prepare my "Hot But Not Toddy" today. This is a non-alcoholic toddy to warm you up. Here I am...ready to hit the road for some shopping and sippin' my roadie {but not} toddy. I'm ready for the chill...wearing my new Lilly mittens.

"HERE'S WHAT I WORE" I wore my Ralph Lauren 'fat day jeans' and the cable pullover and white turtleneck are also by Ralph Lauren. The grass green 'Roped In' ballet flats are by Lilly. The hotty pink 'The Gangs All Here' toasty mittens are by Lilly. The pink and green monogrammed iPhone case is from Marley Lilly. My ponytail is adorned with a little Lilly-fied flower scrunchie!

Recipe for my "Hotty but not Toddy":

14 oz. hot tea {I used Harney Hot Cinnamon Spice tea}
1 tsp honey

1 tsp lemon juice

Pour the honey into the bottom of your beverage container. Glass mugs are my fave, but today I used my cute little monogrammed stadium cup--for the road! Add the hot tea and lemon juice and stir. Fabulous on a cold winter day!!!

Y'all stay warm and look cute doing it!

Celebrating National Hot Tea Month!

2012-01-02T12:20:00.005-04:00

Today starts my month-long celebration of National Hot Tea Month! What's not to like about tea? It's tasty, easy to make, and affordable.

My love of tea started very early in my life. Like most Southerners, I was introduced to iced tea at a young age. But I didn't begin my love affair with hot tea until about the year 2000. At that time, I began researching and studying all about tea and etiquette. The more I read about world's SECOND most popular beverage, the more I wanted to know about it.

This afternoon I was happy to sit down a rest a bit after the Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's rush. I'm looking over one of very favorite tea books..."Tea & Etiquette," by Dorothea Johnson & Bruce Richardson. Ms. Johnson, founder of The Protocol School of Washington, was one of my etiquette teachers years ago and she has teamed up with Bruce Richardson, owner of Elmwood Fine Teas and the author of twelve other tea books to write this richly-illustrated book.

This book is a must-read those who take tea for business or pleasure. It includes chapters on tea history, tea & health information, hosting an afternoon tea at home, tea faux pas, guest duties at a social tea, going out to tea, business tea etiquette, finessing the food at tea, tea types, steeping guides, and recipes. This book is available to order on the sidebar of my blog under "Miss Janice Recommends!"
"At tea, as in any other interaction, we are not free to act merely as we please; but we must act with mutual consideration, as befits our interdependence."
~Dorothea Johnson

My secretary is set with all the proper tea accoutrements needed for Tea for One!

Today I'm using my 'Blue Willow' teaware by Johnson Brothers. I steeped Pomegranate Oolong tea and made delicious Cashew Caramel scones.
A white battenburg lace tea serviette...placed to the left of the plate with the napkin fold facing the tea plate.

A tea knife {I used a luncheon knife} is used to slice through the scone horizontally. Place small dallops of the cream onto your tea plate...never spooning directly onto the scone. Break off a bite-size piece with your fingers and use your knife to dab a bite-size piece with cream.

A votive candle is used inside the silver teapot warmer to keep the beverage hot.

The teacup, is filled 3/4 full and sat on a doily on the tea saucer...with the handle always at 4 o'clock! The Pomegranate Oolong tea is available at Harney Teas. The leaves of Ti Quan Yin Oolong are infused with tangy pomegranate. This is a wonderful tea y'all..try it, you will love it!

A traditional English scone...

The Devonshire cream is placed on a butter pan plate and then served onto the tea plate...Remember, do not spoon the cream directly from the pat plate to the scone!

To sit and have a cup of tea is one of the most relaxing things that you can do. It is not the actual drinking of the tea, but the ritual of boiling the water, preparing the tea, and patiently waiting and anticipating some quiet time. It slows you down from your hectic pace and gives you a chance to take a deep breath and relax.

Thank you so much for visiting with me today. Remember, tea is considered the beverage of hospitality--so go steep some tea and...Make it Southern!

Getting Ready for the New Year!

2011-12-28T18:00:00.000-04:00

Whew! I'm exhausted y'all! Looking for a quiet spot on the beach to relax and think with some peace and quiet:) This is what I need...
Pepi is down for his long winter's nap...bless his little heart! He's been so busy:)
My thank-you notes have been sent for all the Christmas gifts I received...You can read here and also here about my thank-you note etiquette tips.
As I've said every New Year's, I'm NOT a fan of New Year's Eve parties. I am always exhausted by this point and just want to stay home and watch the revelry from Times Square...wearing my PJ's and sipping some champagne.
However, I've been known to give these cute little "New Year's Eve" gifts to friends...
This is my go-to "New Year's" gift...the Southern must-eat on New Year's Day black eyed peas, wrapped in cello, tied with my signature gingham ribbon, with a party horn attached!
This year I'll be tweeting my "2012 Good Intentions List" on New Year's Eve over at Twitter...check it out. No goals, no resolutions...just "Good Intentions!"

Happy New Year to all y'all and I'll be back soon!

Last Day of Advent

2011-12-23T20:39:00.056-04:00

Merry Christmas Eve! The rush is over y'all and now is the time to truly celebrate the reason for the season. It's been a busy week and I'm down to the final days of my Christmas Season 2011 Bucket List...

Day#22--Pepi's older brother Pedro picked out this for me to wear...a little red cardi and a pair of tartan plaid socks!

I found this cute little pink tree at The Hobby Lobby. Initially I was gonna decorate it with Lilly-fied ornaments to coordinate with the other two pink and green trees in my dining room. I thought that was a bit boring, so I decided to add the Lilly gift enclosure cards and make it my "Wish List" tree. {So my husband could just take the tags with him to the store!} After more thought, I felt like that was kinda selfish...I have so many friends and family members who need prayer during this Christmas season that I decided to make it my "Prayer Tree" and each card has the name of a person who needs my prayers!!!
The pink & green cards attached with pink gingham ribbon coordinate well with the theme in my dining room.
Vigil candles were lit at Church for each person...
Day #23--Pepi chose another "Tacky Christmas Sweater" for me to wear!
Pepi hit the road with me as we shopped for Christmas presents...here he is at my favorite lunch spot...Panera Bread!
Later that night, Pepi got into some of my "Naughty Egg Nog"
Day #24--It was time to wrap. I must tell y'all that my house is a mess right now and my wrapping center is out. of. control. I can't stand it when the ribbons are not categorized by color, design, and season!
Wrap. Sip. Wrap. Sip. Being Mrs. Claus is tough job!!!
Day #25--Up early preparing a Lilly-fied Breakfast. Here I am {Sleepy Miss Janice} wearing a Lilly 'Santa' apron to coordinate with my theme...I'm so Sandra Lee-ish y'all!
The dining room setting for my Lilly-fied Breakfast...

This was my outfit for the day...pink and black.
Day #26--Christmas Luncheon. I wore a red tartan plaid skirt, white Peter Pan collar blouse, and a black cashmere cardi.
My accessories:
{It was a four-bow day...bows on my headband, pocketbook, ponytail, and shoes!}
Shoes: Ballet flats by Chanel
Headband: Ferragamo
Ponytail bow: Black grosgrain
Tights: Black, J Crew
Lipstick: 'Star Red' by Chanel
Cologne: Ferragamo
Pocketbook: Ferragamo
Rings: Wedding band 'Eternity' by Cartier, and gold monogrammed signet ring
Earrings: Gold monogrammed disks
Pin: Gold monogrammed disk with maiden name monogram {Pinned on front center of blouse to collar points, just the way I wore it as a young girl}
Happy Hour with little Pepi! Tis the season:)
Day #27--Luncheon and gift giving...I wore my red Austin Reed double breasted blazer with a navy cable pullover by Ralph Lauren and a navy & red scarf by Balenciaga. I wore this with winter white slacks and gold Revas, by Tory Burch.
Found this cute bag at The Cracker Barrel...perfect for carrying the wrapped packages!
Later that night, Pepi just kicked back and roasted some marshmallows over an open fire!
Day #28--Christmas Eve!

Dinner and Church...I wore a red turtleneck sweater with a black & white houndstooth jacket, a red Ferragamo headband, black Ferragamo pumps, and a black skirt.
Our bible is open to Luke 2: 1-20...The Birth of Jesus!
This is a photo of the church that I took earlier in the week.
The beautiful stained-glass windows are adorned with Christmas greenery.
Advent Wreath:

The white candle {Christ Candle} is lit on Christmas Eve, along with the other four candles, to symbolize Jesus is the light of the world and that if we follow Him, we will never walk in darkness, but have the true light of life!
And we are ready for Santa Claus, as well!!!
Merry Christmas y'all!

Lilly-fied Christmas Breakfast

2011-12-21T18:00:00.001-04:00

I wanted to have a breakfast to celebrate the Christmas season and couldn't think of a theme to create. Then I came upon the Lilly 'Santa' pattern and it all fell into place! I knew I could count on my Savannah friend Lynn Whelan to put together something precious for me to wear...The newest addition to my "Prissy Apron Collection" designed by Lynn Whelan herself using the Lilly 'Santa' fabric and other patterns and pom fringe to coordinate.

Here's a closeup photo of the pattern...I just love it!

I wore my pink Revas by Tory Burch and some cute Santa jewelry.

I found more inspiration for my breakfast from the book "A Guide to Colorful Holidays" by Lilly Pulitzer and Jay Mulvaney.

It's all pink and green in my dining room at The Roost!
The table is set for my Lilly-fied Breakfast...
The centerpiece on the dining table...a pink tree
Decorated with pink gingham bows and pink and green ornaments...
The placesetting...
Silver monogrammed napkin rings adorn the cute Lilly-fied napkins...designed by Lynn Whelan.
Lilly Pulitzer goblets...
The beverage is Raspberry Sunrise Mimosas...recipe from the Lilly Pulitzer "Holidays" book
Lynn Whelan also made these precious coasters for moi!
A monogrammed pitcher of the mimosas!
Little pink banners on the straws...one side--"Merry Christmas"
Flip side--"Chin Chin!"
Y'all get your party favors! Pink scalloped boxes, adorned with my monogrammed stickers {by Melissa Caligiuri} and stuffed with green shred and Lilly Pulitzer 'Wink' cologne samples...wrapped in cello and tied with pink gingham ribbon!
Another pink tree on the sideboard!
The top of the tree is adorned with pink gingham ribbon and my monogram!
The ornaments and garland...by Lilly Pulitzer!

Pretty pink packages...
The Food:
I served Chicken Hash on Waffles and followed Lilly's advice..."Have easy options"--Eggo Waffles!
The recipe for the Chicken Hash is on page 133 of the "Holidays" book by Lilly Pulitzer.
I also served a Pomegranate and Pineapple Salad...recipe on page 173 of the "Holidays" book!
Thank you for visiting with me today...I'll be back on Saturday to wish y'all a Merry Christmas!!!!

Gingerbread in the Kitchen, Part 2

2011-12-19T15:45:00.001-04:00

Back in the kitchen y'all...The other day I fixed Gingerbread Pancakes and served milk and Candy Cane Green tea for breakfast. I used a red wooden tray from my "Serving Tray Collection" and wore a cute little gingerbread apron, the latest addition to "Prissy Apron Collection" designed just for me by Hickory Creek Crafts.

I was happy that Brenda at Hickory Creek could make me a gingerbread apron with red gingham, peppermint, and polka dots to match my kitchen theme...ala Sandra Lee-style!

My assistant Gingerbread Chef assisted me...

The kitchen island is decorated with all kinds of cute gingerbread loot and another tabletop tree...
The cute little tree topper is from The Cracker Barrel...
Red gingham ribbon and cute little gingerbread-motif ornaments and garland adorn this tree...

I've had this sweet little gingerbread girl for years. Mama got her at Dillard's and sent her to me when I lived in Palm Springs...

More gingerbread loot...
Tea towel...
Gingerbread cookies and a stand, which I purchased at The Cracker Barrel years ago...
My breakfast bar is set...
The red and white plates were purchased at The Cracker Barrel several years ago. I found the goblets and placemats at Walmart last month. The tiny gingerbread ornaments are hot-glued onto the white flatware.

I used this delicious Gingerbread Pancake Mix from The Fresh Market.
Easy, delicious, and perfect to enjoy during the Christmas season!
Thanks for stopping by to visit with me today. I'll be back before Christmas tree to show some more of my Christmas decos!

Fourth Sunday of Advent

2011-12-18T04:00:00.002-04:00

It is the fourth Sunday of Advent and the purple Angel's candle is lit. This week of Advent is the week of Love.

"But the Angel said unto them, do not be afraid. Behold I bring unto you good tidings of great joy!" ~Luke 2:10

Day #15 of my Christmas Season 2011 Bucket List...

Sunday night, Mama and I watched a movie...popcorn and diet caffeine-free coke was a must!
"It's a Wonderful Life" is always one of my favorite movies to watch during the Christmas season!
Day #16 Mama and I started off the day with a light breakfast...This is the table setting for her kitchen table. The dinnerware is 'O'Tannebaum' from Macy's...purchased many years ago.
Red velvet doughnuts from Krispy Kreme and The Fresh Market's 'Christmas Blend' coffee hit the spot before a day of shopping at the local "tacky mall". {If you follow me on Twitter, you know that I always affectionately refer to a mall without a Saks or Neiman's as tacky! In fact, I probably use the word "tacky" a million times everyday!
The Red Velvet doughnuts from Krispy Kreme as sooooo good y'all! However, the "Hot Now" light must be on before I will enter the place!!!
Day #17...I wore a red turtleneck and some tacky jingle bell earrings and my "Get Even, Give Fruitcake" badge!
After lunch, I fixed Mama some of her favorite fruitcake and coffee...This is the tablesetting at her dining table...The china pattern is 'Cranberry Hill', from J C Penney.

Mama LOVES fruitcake, but of course, it has to be Claxton Fruitcake. I'm sorry y'all, this stuff is just gross.

Day #18...Wednesday morning I fixed Mama some biscuits and served them with my Apple Butter and hot tea.

Etiquette tip: Remember to serve jellies and sauces on the side. Tear off the piece of biscuit that will go into your mouth and spoon some of the jelly onto the biscuit.

Mama's breakfast bar...set with dinnerware and teaware in the 'Plaid Tidings' pattern from The Cracker Barrel.
Mama's sweet breakfast china...
Day #19...My little Pepi picked out this outfit for me to wear around town...running errands, shopping, and getting even more into the Christmas spirit. {Even while wearing a tacky Christmas sweater}!
Day #20...Little Pepi and I had some Peppermint Ice Cream...I'm obsessed with peppermint everything right now!
Day #21...I wore my new little gingerbread apron...serving Candy Cane tea and made some gingerbread pancakes! 'Tis the Season to eat, eat, eat!!!
Thank you for visiting with me today! Ho Ho Ho y'all!!!

Parade of Christmas Trees, Part 2

2011-12-16T03:00:00.000-04:00

Welcome to Part 2 of the "Parade of Christmas Trees!"

This pink & green tree graces the home office of Trish at Pink Preppy Lilly Lover.

Martha at Mid-Atlantic Martha has this tradtional green "Santa Tree" in her dining room...full of santas, beads and red ribbon!

Shelia at Notesongs has beautiful Christmas decorations inside her home...this tree stands majestically in her two-story foyer.

Here's another view of Shelia's tree!

The next group of trees are from Kristen at Kristen's Creations. She has decorated her home beautifully even after spending countless hours decorating the homes of many friends. This is the tree in her dining room.

Kristen has this precious gingerbread-theme tree in her breakfast room.

A close-up view of Kristen's gingerbread tree...

The cute gingerbread man on the tree top!

Ooops, how did this photo of Kristen's mantel get in here? Oh well, I thought I'd slip this in:)

This is one of the many trees Kristen decorated for friends...

Another tree Kristen decorated for a friend...

And, another tree {and chandelier} decorated by Kristen...

Close up of the previous tree decorated by Kristen...

You can visit Kristen at her blog HERE to see more photos of her creations!

This is another tree decorated by Amber Davies {I showed a few of her trees in Part 1}, a Georgia friend...with red and white stripe mesh ribbon and cheetah print ribbon!

The next three trees are from Amy at Forever 29. This is her white tree that she has in her pink office...adorned with pink & silver ornaments, pink garland, and it has a 'Hotty Pink Ten Speed' Lilly tree skirt.

A trio of alpine style trees in her dining room, decorated by Amy

Rustic ornaments adorn Amy's trio of trees...bears, gingham ribbon, burlap ribbon, and cranberry garland!

2011 Parade of Christmas Trees, Part 1

2011-12-14T05:00:00.000-04:00

Welcome to Part 1 of "Miss Janice's Parade of Christmas Trees". All of the trees are beautiful and I will just let y'all look at the pictures and find the tree that you love the most...
The first two trees are from the home of Kathleen Ellis. This green tree is decorated for her dining room and is very prissy!!! You can visit Kathleen at her lifestyle blog HERE.

Kathleen decorated another tree...a white tree with beautiful crystal ornaments and tiaras all over it!

The next photo was sent in by Kate of NauticalByNature. The pink preppy tree is decorated with nautical theme ornaments and Kate said that next year she'll need a larger tree since her ornament collection has grown so much!
The next three trees were sent in by Lady Breland {Miss Jessica}. The first one is an Alabama Crimson Tide Tree...embellished with cute houndstooth ribbon and University of Alabama ornaments.
The Breland's are New Orleans Saints fans and this a glimpse of their Saints tree!

Miss Jessica decorated a tabletop tree for her children and placed it on the countertop in the kitchen.

This tree is from Leigh Hines of HinesSightBlog. The ornaments on the bottom part of the tree are handmade from the children's preschool days. The top portion of the tree is full of crystal ornaments Leigh collected as a single girl during her twenties. The children love to play with the stuffed animals surrounding the bottom of the tree...some of which belonged to Leigh as a child.

This tree is from LeAnn...It's a traditional tree in her den and full of sentimental ornaments. The cross-stitched tree skirt was made by her Mama y'all!
The next few trees are from a Georgia friend, Amber Davies. This tree is in her dining room. Amber's china cabinet is adorned and coordinates with her tree decor!

Amber decorated a small floor tree beside the nativity scene.

And one more of Amber's trees...

This tree was decorated by Dana Linn of Boerne, Texas. The photo was taken in her Texas home.

Be still my heart...Dana's precious little Yorkie Miss Lucy...seated on the sofa by the tree!

This tree is from Jennifer Richardson. Jennifer is recently married and her Mama passed down ornaments to her that have been in her family for two generations.
Look at this vintage Santa ornament on Jennifer's tree...these are the best.

This tree is from the home of Jessica Goughnour. Her beautiful tree is adorned with ornaments collected from travels...each ornament tells a story! Jessica has a new blog BowieToBaltimore. Y'all stop over and welcome her to the world of blogging.

This gorgeous green and red tree is from Laura Horton of The HortonFamily Blog. Love the ornaments {of course, I zeroed right in on the red fleur de lis} and the mesh garland. Fabulous!

The next two trees are from Stacy at Preppy and Pink NC blog. Look at this tree! Isn't it fabulous?!

Love the top treatment and the polka dot ribbon!
Cute picture frames, monogrammed ornaments, mesh garland, et cetera adorn this whimsical tree. Stacy believes that "bigger is better" when it comes to ornaments and anything can be used in the tree for decoration!
This another one of Stacy's trees...LOVE this pink and green tree! You can go HERE to see more photos of her trees:)
The next tree is from another reader of my blog--Amy Braswell. This pink and prissy tree is in her pink guest bedroom...
Prissy shoe ornament...
Prissy lady ornament...
Looks like a Lilly shift ornament...y'all know I love this classic shift...the ones with the bows on 'em!
Another one of my blog readers sent this photo of her fireplace mantel adorned for Christmas with trees! A vintage gold elf sits atop the mantel clock. Miss Kitty has her paw out? Her stocking hangs on the fireplace tools where she is able to reach it.
Last, but certainly not least...this cute tree was sent to me by Kathryn Lewter, a reader of my blog. Kathryn had her first baby boy last March and this precious circus-themed tree coordinated with his room decor. How cute is this y'all?!
Well, I hope that you found some inspiration here today...maybe for your tree this Christmas or next Christmas! I'll be back on Friday morning with Part II of "Miss Janice's Parade of Christmas Trees"

Third Sunday of Advent

2011-12-11T06:00:00.000-04:00

It's the third Sunday of Advent and the third {rose} candle will be lit. The rose candle represents "Joy and Rejoicing" at the mid point of Advent.
I'm in Georgia right now visiting with my Mama and enjoying time with her during the Christmas season. I've been working on my "Christmas 2011 Bucket List" everyday...

Day #8...Sunday...I made Nutella Hot Chocolate. I don't think there's anything that doesn't taste great with Nutella. I added a heaping tablespoon of the chocolate goodness to 1 1/2 cup of milk. I heated this over the stove and kept whisking away until the mixture was blended. It was fabulous with marshmallows on top!

Monday night, I sipped Merlot from a custom-designed Christmas goblet. This goblet is part of a set which was hand-painted and gifted to me by my late friend Betty Marston. Miss Betty gave me these precious goblets the last time I saw her at my home near Memphis.

Tuesday night, I sipped Merlot...yes again...while packing for my trip to Georgia! This time I brought out my whimsical gingerbread men goblets.

Wednesday night, I spent some time with my best friend in Augusta, Teresa Jane. Peppermint milkshakes were our choice of beverage for the night...we stayed up late talking about the good times, bad times, and downright embarrassing times!

Of course, Teresa Jane and I both have the same LVs!!!!

Thursday night I spent relaxing at Mama's house...addressing my Christmas cards. Tradition. Must do these at Mama's house!

On Friday I decided to wear a "Tacky Christmas Sweater" for the day...It was okay 'cuz Mama likes the Christmas sweaters!

I wore these festive Christmas tree socks and green Revas...

We filled up the thermos with hot chocolate and headed out at dark to see the neighborhood Christmas lights.

On Saturday, I wore another "Tacky Christmas Sweater" with red suede ballet flats and candy cane Christmas socks.

We had lunch at The Swanson House in Perry...Mama and I both love this restaurant.

Mama...aka "Miss Pauline"

After lunch...we stopped at Starbucks for a peppermint fix...Peppermint Mocha and the Peppermint Cake Pops!

The Peppermint Pops have brownie cake fillings!

I'm looking forward to spending more time with my Mama and hope y'all are having a wonderful Christmas season!

Gingerbread in the Kitchen

2011-12-07T03:00:00.000-04:00

Last year I loved my Santa in France theme at Christmas. I thought it went so well with the colors in my kitchen, relaxing room, and dining room. Well, this year, I changed things up a bit. Today, I'm featuring part of the kitchen area...all decked out in red gingham, dots, and gingerbread motif.

I'm modeling the latest addition to my "Prissy Apron Collection" ...it's from HomeGoods.

The kitchen table is set with a red and white theme.
A tabletop tree is the centerpiece...decorated with red and white gingham ribbon, red dot ornaments, and gingerbread ornaments.

The placesetting...these red plates are from SteinMart, purchased many years ago. Of course, I decided to use my red gingham napkins and red gingham fabric for the tree base.
The mini gingerbread people are hot glued onto the white flatware.

Dot glass goblets for my signature beverage...Cranberry Ginger Fizz--1/2 Cranberry Juice & 1/2 Ginger Ale. Fresh cranberries and mint leaves garnish the beverage and red dot paper straws coordinate with the setting.
I used a few "Prissy Plates" with this setting. "Prissy Plates" are the perfect serving pieces for the Southern hostess...we love ribbons and bows and these can be dressed up and changed for any occasion.

This small "Prissy Plate", adorned with red gingham ribbon was just the right size for the Cranberry-Apple Brie.
The sideboard was set up for desserts...
More dots and gingham on a wreath for the mirror...
The Advent Tree...and a little gingerbread house.
Another "Prissy Plate" adorned with more red gingham ribbon for the Red Velvet Cake. It just wouldn't be a Southern Christmas at my house without a Red Velvet Cake!
Tiny red gingham ribbon adorns this "Prissy Plate" server...and Gingerbread Cupcakes*.
The cupcakes were topped with cream cheese icing and mini gingerbread cookies and wrapped with gingerbread-motif cupcake wrappers.
The hutch is filled with red dishes and gingerbread-motif goblets.

A cute gingerbread house from The Fresh Market sits on top of another "Prissy Plate".
Gingerbread Chef Santa! {I found him at The Cracker Barrel}
The red dinner plates are from 'The Country Living' collection at KMart. The gingerbread salt and pepper shakers are from Fitz and Floyd. The gingerbread goblets are from Dillard's many years ago.

*RECIPE FOR GINGERBREAD CUPCAKES:
{Recipe source--Betty Crocker}

1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened

1/2 cup molasses
2 eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground sugar
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground allspice
3/4 cup water

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Place your paper baking cups in each regular size muffin cup. In a large bowl, beat the granulated sugar, 1/2 cup butter, the molasses and eggs with an electric mixer on medium speed, or mix with a spoon. Stir in flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, the allspice, and water. Spoon about 1/4 cup batter into each muffin cup. Bake 15-18 minutes or until toothpick inserted into center comes out clean. Cool 5 minutes and remove from pan to cooling racks. Cool completely about 20 minutes.

I used the Betty Crocker cream cheese frosting from the *GASP* can!

I'm off today to visit my best friend Teresa Jane in Augusta, then on to my Mama's house for a visit. I'll have more "Gingerbread in the Kitchen" loot when I return!

2nd Sunday of Advent...St Nicholas Day

2011-12-04T14:00:00.001-04:00

It's the second Sunday of Advent and the first and second candles of the Advent wreath were lit at church. The first candle is HOPE, the second candle is PEACE.

And so it is also St. Nicholas Day. He is the patron saint of children and of course, there is a long tradition of gift-giving associated with him. Those who observe St. Nicholas Day know that it is a good opportunity to remind children that Jolly Santa Claus is in fact St. Nicholas and inspire them to amend their ways in preparation for the coming King!
After Church, we had lunch at a fish restaurant by the neighborhood village square. I asked my husband to try and photo the whole gigantic tree and me. He has a thing about "zooming in" so you can't see much of the tree, but it is nice!
"HERE'S WHAT I WORE"

Skirt: Blue tartan plaid by Pendleton

Blouse: White Peter Pan by French Toast
Cardi: Navy by JCrew

The Accessories:
Pocketbook: Navy blue Bermuda bag, monogrammed
Cologne: Ralph Lauren
Lipstick: 'Talisman' by Chanel
Shoes: Navy 'Revas' by Tory Burch

Necklace: Gold beads {I'm actually showing a cardi guard, but wore a necklace instead}
Earrings: Gold monogrammed disks
Wedding band: 'Eternity' by Cartier
I'm showing y'all a casual outfit I wore the other day for a reason...
Slacks: Ralph Lauren

Blouse: Coldwater Creek

Cardi: J Crew
This is why I wanted y'all to see this...Why in the world won't this photo flip the right way? I tried to load it all kinda ways, but no, it just kept loading upside down!

Anyway, I love this new clutch that I got from Marley Lilly! I am so in love with houndstooth this season...some would think I'm even a Bama fan:)

This past week, I've been working on my Christmas 2011 Bucket List...

Remember my Advent tree? Items from my Bucket List are printed on little tags...one inside each cone...stuff I want to do each day of the Advent season!

On Monday I hung Christmas stockings on the armoire with care!
On Tuesday I decorated the front porch tree.
On Wednesday, I donated some of my Department 56 'Dickens Village' houses to the Church thrift store. The Church ladies were very happy!!!
On Thursday I decked out the front door with some Christmas cheer!
On Friday I put together my "Friendship Gifts" for December.
On Saturday I sipped my first Gingerbread Latte of the season!
I hope y'all are having a wonderful Christmas season. Please remember to keep Christ in Christmas. Jesus is the reason for the season!!!

SHOW OFF YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE!

2011-12-02T23:45:00.012-04:00

I want to see your Christmas tree! So do my readers!!! Do you have a big, REAL tree?

Do you have some cute tabletop trees?
Do you have a themed tree?
Is your tree decorated with a traditional theme?
Do the colors on your tree coordinate with your home decor?
Maybe you have a tree that really isn't a tree?
Whatever the theme, design, or color of your tree, send me a photo and info about your tree. I will be posting a Parade of Christmas Trees on Thursday, December 15, 2011. You can send your photos to me at: MissJanice@MissJanice.com. Please send your photos & info to me no later than midnight, Monday, December12, 2011.

I know y'all have some cute trees...I've seen photos of a lot of them already on Facebook and Twitter and blogs!

Friendship Gifts for the Christmas Season

2011-12-02T04:00:00.002-04:00

Every Christmas I get all excited about the scents and tastes of the season...Cinnamon, gingerbread, balsam fir, peppermint, egg nog, et cetera. Right now, I'm enjoying everything peppermint! I decided to include a little bit of peppermint in my bags of "Friendship Gifts".

Here are my little gifts...ready to go!
Of course, I added my signature gingham ribbon to the cello bags and some red paper shred.
I purchased loads of the 'Twisted Peppermint' hand sanitizers from Bath & Body Works. Everyone uses these and since we are in the flu season, I'm hoping they will be welcomed by my family and friends during the month of December. I also added some peppermint candy to each bag. These treats are tres inexpensive y'all!
The scent and taste of peppermint...so fresh and cool!
Of course, I'm going around the house washing my hands all the time...with Bath & Body Works 'Twisted Peppermint' hand soap...LOVE it!!! Try it y'all...you'll love it too:)

Do You Cheerwine?

2011-11-30T18:00:00.001-04:00

Cheerwine...a longtime favorite soda of Southerners. What is Cheerwine? Well, it's not a wine! It's made in North Carolina...a unique sparkling, cherry tasting beverage with a distinct burgundy color.
I'm not sure how many Southerners live in my small town of Port St. Lucie, Florida, but I was soooo excited to see Cheerwine on the shelves at my local Publix! I'm not sure how I even noticed the bottles there...'cuz they WERE in the Pepsi section. By now, y'all surely know I'm NOT a Pepsi girl. But anyway, they were there and I grabbed tons of them. This past Sunday, I even found Cheerwine at The Fresh Market. Yahoo!
My rush has started for the Christmas season and today, I got a late start out for some shopping and had a quick lunch before I left the house. Cheerwine was just the treat I needed to get me going. Savvy Southerners like myself know that Cheerwine should be sipped with a straw, as the color of the beverage will stain your lips!
Of course, Southerners jump at any opportunity for a pageant and, you guessed it, there is a "Miss Cheerwine"! Isn't she pretty?! Her name is Spencer and she's a native of High Point, North Carolina and a graduate of the University of Alabama. She's a lifelong Cheerwine lover. She has the looks, the smarts, and the Southern pedigree to serve as the the perfect ambassador for Cheerwine!
Lord have mercy, there are even "Cheerwine Doughnuts" made by my favorite doughnut people since childhood...Krispy Kreme. I want one!!!
The perfect sandwich with a Cheerwine soda...The Fresh Market pimiento cheese and potato chips. NOBODY beats The Fresh Market for pimiento cheese, except maybe my Daddy's pimiento cheese.
You can read more about Cheerwine on their site HERE. Or, you can be like Miss Janice and follow them on Twitter here and on Facebook here. Cheerwine definitely has a distinct flavor and if you decide to try it, please let me know how you like it!

Cheerwine...Born in the South...raised in a glass!

Annual Sale at the Pink Monogram

2011-11-27T17:00:00.001-04:00

It'll soon be Cyber Monday and Miss Monica at The Pink Monogram is having a big ANNUAL SALE and offering free shipping all day tomorrow!!!

The perfect gift for the preppy one in your life...A Gift Certificate from The Pink Monogram!
These are darling personalized Christmas platters...love them!
A monogrammed bathrobe...great for those cold winter nights! Of course, the monogram makes them special.
These preppy and personalized cell phone covers set your phone apart from others!

Stop in at The Pink Monogram and check out all the deals available tomorrow!

Advent Tree

2011-11-27T12:04:00.002-04:00

Goodness gracious, I'm kinda grateful this holiday weekend is coming to a close. I have eaten my way through the whole thing! Seriously, it's was wonderful...from the crack-of-dawn Turkey Trot 5k on Thanksgiving morning, to the who-cares that the oven died during the turkey baking, to the midnight shopping on Black Friday! I promise y'all, as soon as I click "publish" on this post, I'm off to the gym for a workout and plan to spend a couple of hours there!

This morning I attended Church..."HERE'S WHAT I WORE"

Skirt: Talbot's
Jacket: Old...Dillard's, I think

THE ACCESSORIES:

Pocketbook: 'Kelly Bag' by Ferragamo
Headband: Black velvet by Bagalicious...It's after Thanksgiving, I can wear velvet now!
Lipstick: 'Star' and 'Miss Fizz' by Chanel
Cologne: 'Mademoiselle' by Chanel
Earrings: Givenchy
Wedding band: 'Eternity' by Cartier
Ponytail bow: Black grosgrain ribbon
Shoes: 'Vara' by Ferragamo
I wore this Burberry plaid silk pochette around my neck...

Today is the first day of the season of Advent...the time of preparation for the coming of Christ at Christmas and the start of the liturgical new year. Advent is a time of spiritual reflection as well as anticipation...counting down the days until Christmas!

I was thinking of making my own Advent calendar this year, then I decided to decorate an Advent Tree! I used my trusty little white feather tree that I've had for years. Then I added these little festive numbered treat cones...one for each day of the Advent season. I placed a "Christmas Bucket list 2011" tag inside each one...my list of things I want to do during the season....Attend a Christmas parade, attend a tree lighting, bake Christmas cookies, wear Christmas earrings, sip some Gingerbread latte, et cetera. I also added some peppermint candy treats!
I cut out the patterned cones and taped them together in the back, punched a couple of holes on the sides, and used red grosgrain ribbon to hang them on the three. LOVE the designs of the cones!
I found the cone printables HERE on Etsy.

I hope y'all had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday weekend! Let the Christmas season begin!!!

Carrying Yourself With Grace and Poise

2011-11-20T17:00:00.001-04:00

This morning I headed out to Church and lunch..."HERE'S WHAT I WORE"

Skirt: Sarah Campbell
Blouse: Stein Mart
Cardi: Neiman Marcus
Shoes: Bandolino
Flower Pin: Stein Mart
Tights: Stein Mart

The Accessories:
Pocketbook: Chanel 2.55
Cologne: 'Mademoiselle' by Chanel
Lipstick: 'Talisman' by Chanel
Nail Polish: 'Natural Pink' by Chanel

Shoes: Mary Janes by Bandolino
Necklace & Earrings: Pearls
Wedding Band: 'Eternity' by Cartier
Bracelet: Chanel

After lunch, I headed to the newly opened Fresh Market. I always enjoy shopping at The Fresh Market. The prices are a bit high, so I get my favorite "special treats" there...Pimiento Cheese, Spinach & Artichoke Dip, frozen party appetizers, seasonal coffees, pastries, and I just love their seafood!

After that I stopped in at the "tacky mall" to do a little recon work in preparation for Black Friday. After hitting up a few stores, I sat down on a bench in the center of the mall to tweet for a bit and take a rest. Being the people-watcher that I am, it always amazes me when I see ladies walking like a man or slumped into their chair, with their legs crossed like a man...or worse than that, sitting with their knees apart.

Your posture and the way you carry yourself is important and is as much a part of your image as your wardrobe. If you slump, it gives others the impression that you are lazy.

Standing gracefully:
~Stand with your feet slightly apart.
~Hold your head straight, with your chin parallel to the floor.
~Balance your body's weight evenly over both feet.
~Hold your shoulders up, back and relaxed.
~Keep your stomach pulled in and your bottom tucked under.
~Let your arms fall freely at your side.

Walking gracefully:
I learned to walk with a book on my head...Head up, shoulders back, bottom under, stomach in...and glide...just glide y'all!

{spoolteacher.com}

Duchess Catherine truly carries herself with grace and poise. The perfect Princess...she has perfect posture.

Sitting Gracefully:
Sit straight down on a chair, remembering to sit up straight and lean slightly forward on the chair. Cross your legs at your ankles and move your legs to the side. {If you move your legs to the right side, then the left leg should be tucked under the right leg} Keep your knees together as if you were holding a pill between them!

Place your left hand, palm down, just above your knee and place your right hand on top of your left hand.

Of course, Jackie Kennedy knew how to sit!
These ladies know how to sit...knees together, ankles crossed, hands on knees...leaning slightly forward.
Grace Kelly...sitting just like a Princess!

Thanksgiving Gratitude Tree. Oh-So Thankful!

2011-11-17T11:20:00.000-04:00

The rush is on...do you feel it? Lord have mercy! It's so easy to get caught up in all the hype of the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday. I'm trying to...
Showing Gratitude. That is what Thanksgiving is all about. Thanking others. Counting our blessings. Helping Others.

Counting our blessings...We are all so blessed, right? I'm still not skipping Thanksgiving y'all and decided to put up a Gratitude Tree. I found some gratitude printables on Pinterest. You can print these and use them however, but I just cut them out, punched a hole at the top, and used twine to attach them to the tree. I asked my husband to fill out the tags and write down all the things he's grateful for. I thought he'd probably say "I don't have time to do that". Well, he was finished in a snap...One of his tags says "I'm grateful for the life I've led". Oh my! Here's my tree...Keeping it simple, I used burlap for a tree topper and the streamers.

These are the gratitude tags that I found on Pinterest...You can go HERE to make copies of them...they are perfect for the season.

Helping others...I'm participating in a food drive organized by my Church. For around $40, you can donate a grocery sack full of food that will feed a family of four. {A grocery gift card is attached for the turkey or other meat}
This is the list of the food products that we used and that you might like to buy and take to a family in need:
Giving back...You can also just make a monetary donation to your Church or the charity of your choice.
Being thankful...Send a note to someone thanking them for being there for you...My Thanksgiving cards are in the mail...we are so thankful for our family and friends!
Sharing...I made some "Friendship Gifts"...Taste of Gourmet Morning Muffins & Sweet Potato Muffins...mini style.
I found these festive bags and "Happy Thanksgiving" tags at Hobby Lobby...perfect for my mini muffins!

Don't forget your host...the one who is slaving away in the kitchen to make your holiday special! My hostess gift for Thanksgiving night...ready to go. A bottle of wine wrapped in burlap fabric and tied with a brown grosgrain ribbon. The "Thanksgiving 2011" tag can be downloaded at Semi Homemade Magazine HERE.
Making it memorable...Thanksgiving 2011
Remember the shut-ins...When I think of Thanksgiving, I always think of turkey and dressing...but, don't forget the pie!
I'm gonna bake a Southern Pecan Pie and take it to an elderly couple that I know...showing a little Southern hospitality!
Using my leftovers box idea, I'll probably wrap the pie in a box filled with shred and tie it up with the raffia and a turkey tag! Well, I can't just take it to someone with tin foil on top!
I hope that you enjoy your Thanksgiving Day...whether you are having a meal with family and friends, working at your job, or just sitting in front of the television watching the parade & games with a TV dinner. Happy Thanksgiving to all y'all!
Be truly thankful! Remember to practice good dining etiquette on the big day. Most meals will start with...Saying Grace.

"Asking the Blessing" or "Saying Grace" is a short prayer of thanks given before a meal, generally after guests are seated and before even the napkin is touched. To show respect for the host, when Grace is said, the head is bowed, regardless of one's beliefs.

A nice blessing~
For what we are about to receive
May the Lord make us truly thankful.

Amen.

I LET MY HAIR DOWN TODAY!

2011-11-15T18:12:00.015-04:00

I've been out and around town all day...I decided to let my hair down and let me tell y'all, husband likes it, but I feel strange without the 'Miss Janice ponytail'! It's that time of year...I'm in and out of Hobby Lobby and Michael's everyday! But I'm praising The Lord that I don't have to drive 70 miles north to Viera for the Hobby Lobby anymore...it's now right across the street from the tacky mall. Holla!!! I'm always shopping for cute loot and matchy matchy decorations!

Husband is home from his back-to-back GAMEDAYS and a poker tournament...back to reality Mistah!

We're off to an early supper at Sam Snead's tavern restaurant.

"HERE'S WHAT I WORE"

Jeans: J Crew skinny jeans {it's not easy squeezing my fat self into these today...more jogging on my to-do list}
Blouse: J Crew chartreuse 'Annalise'
Cardi: J Crew chartreuse
Shoes: J Crew tortoise ballet flats {rain flats, just in case}
MY ACCESSORIES:

Pocketbook: Chanel 2.55, black with gold hardware
Bracelet: Tortoise cuff by J Crew
Cologne: Burberry
iPhone cover: J Crew animal print
Lipstick: Chanel 'Talisman'
Shoes: J Crew tortoise ballet flats
Readers: Tortoise
Bracelet: Chanel charm bracelet
Necklace: Chanel logo
Wedding Band: 'Eternity' by Cartier
Earrings: Chanel logo
So hopefully tomorrow I get to stay home and play and create!!! Still not skipping Thanksgiving y'all...just have one eye on Christmas!

Young Girls Cursing Like Sailors...And on a Sunday!

2011-11-13T12:30:00.001-04:00

This morning I attended Church. At the last moment, I had to switch outfits since I was gonna dress like I was up at the North Pole and it was about 75 degrees at Church time. So I scrambled to come up with something that didn't scream "Church clothes on a snow-stormed Sunday!" Rushed, rushed. Always rushing! Even though I was running late, I still sat in the parking lot at the Church to give my nails a fresh coat of polish. I crack myself up!

"HERE'S WHAT I WORE"

Skirt: Brown plaid vintage from who-knows where
Blouse: JCrew
Cardi: JCrew
Shoes: Ferragamo

THE ACCESSORIES:

Pocketbook: Croc by Ferragamo
Headband: Ferragamo
Lipstick: 'Talisman' by Chanel
Cologne: Ferragamo
Ponytail bow: Ivory grosgrain ribbon
Readers: Tortoise shell
Wedding Band: 'Eternity' by Cartier
Earrings & Bracelet: Pearls by Ralph Lauren
Shoes: 'Vara' croc pumps by Ferragamo

After Church, I had my Sunday Dinner {lunch} at Panera Bread. As usual, I kept an eye open to those around me...how they behaved themselves at the table, how they sat, et cetera. I can't help it. I'm a people watcher and naturally, being a dining etiquette snob, I do watch the way others behave at the table. Yes, other people do notice your table manners and how you conduct yourself at the dining table...especially in public. As usual, I saw some pretty bad examples of dining etiquette today.

But I was more shocked by the language of four young girls I saw in a department store at the tacky mall after dinner. These girls could not have been older than 16. Now, I know times are changing and young girls are not the same today as they were when I was 16. Back then, I was always dressed to shop in my Sunday best with stockings and gloves and making sure I was on my best behavior, just in case one of Mama's friends was also out and about. Not these girls I saw today! No ma'am! As I stood nearby going through some cute loot on the rack, I heard the most filthy language coming out of their mouths. I thought to myself, "It's one thing to cuss in private, but to talk like that...out loud, so anyone can hear you?" This cussing every other word went on and on and on. Like it IS their vocabulary. One of the girls glanced over at me and said "Sorry." I kind of smiled at her and asked her "Does y'all's Mamas know y'all talk like that in public?" One of the tackier girls of the group said "I learned to talk like this from my Mama." I just gave her my 'Miss Janice look.' How pathetic is that...to learn to cuss like a sailor from your Mama.

I'm sure that I have told y'all before that during my entire lifetime, I have never heard my Mama utter a cuss word. At her most stressful moments in life, she might say "I swannee," which means "I swear" in Southern talk and is Mama's idea of cussing, since a Southern lady with manners would never even say "I swear."

Cursing has become so natural to some that it seems to be the only way they can express themselves. This kind of public tackiness is eating away at our civility y'all. What do you think? Or dare I ask?

Outfit of the Day

2011-11-12T21:24:00.011-04:00

Today was a beautiful Autumn day in South Florida. I was up very early to work out, then off to a Breakfast meeting, some shopping, and then to a Luncheon.

"HERE'S WHAT I WORE"
Skirt: J Crew
Cardi: Ann Taylor Loft
Tights: Logo Chanel
Shoes: Chanel ballet flats

Accessories:
Pocketbook: Black Chanel 2.55
Cologne: Brighton 'Love'
iPhone Cover: Black with white monogram
Nail polish: Chanel 'Flamme Rose Natural Pink'
Lipstick: Chanel 'Star' and Chanel 'Miss Fizz'
Shoes: Ballet flats by Chanel
Glasses: Black readers
Watch: 'Oyster Perpetual' by Rolex
Rings: Two silver rings by Chanel

Wedding band: 'Eternity' by Cartier

Bracelet: 'Return to Tiffany' by Tiffany
Bracelet: Silver monogrammed bangle
The Chanel tights...I cherish these and only wear them once a year. {Nothing like a closeup of my calf!}
I'm having a very relaxing Saturday evening...watching a Lifetime movie, with some popcorn and a diet caffeine-free coke! Hope y'all are having a fabulous weekend!

A Tribute to Princess Grace

2011-11-11T18:00:00.002-04:00

GRACE PATRICIA KELLY
Model, Actress, and Princess
BORN: November 12, 1929--Philadelpha, Pennsylvania
DIED: September 14, 1982--Monte Carlo, Monaco

Grace Kelly starred in some of my favorite movies of all time...The Rear Window, Dial M for Murder, To Catch a Thief, and High Society
At the age of 26, she gave up all the stardom in Hollywood...

In April of 1956, she married Ranier III, Prince of Monaco and became Her Serene Highness. Kelly and her family provided Prince Ranier with a dowry of 2 million USD in order for the marriage to take place! Her wedding gown was made by Helen Rose...embroidered with pearls and covered with lace.

Princess Grace settled down to a married life and became very active in the Arts and many charities.

Ever the style icon...Princess Grace was named on the International Best Dressed List from 1960 until her death.

The Royal Palace at Monaco, Princess Grace's home...it was the most important destination on my first trip to Europe!

The Royal Family of Monaco

Princess Grace on the streets of Paris.

Love this photo of the Princess...wearing Givenchy.

During her first pregnancy, Princess Grace carried a Hermes Kelly Bag to hide her private, growing waistline. Of course, now these pocketbooks go for many thousands of dollars!

You have to love her style...in this photo, she's wearing an Hermes scarf as a sling to support her broken arm!!!

The aging Princess...still a beauty, full of style and grace.

The funeral service was held for Her Serene Highness Princess Grace of Monaco, age 52, at St. Nicholas Cathedral, Monaco.

"I would like to be remembered as someone who accomplished useful deeds, and who was a kind and loving person. I would like to leave the memory of a human being with a correct attitude and who did her best to help others."
~~Princess Grace

Her daughter Caroline...one of my few style icons left.

What I'm Loving Today!

2011-11-09T03:30:00.003-04:00

Have you seen the new mittens and scarves at Lilly Pulitzer? I just ordered these today...they aren't available to ship yet, but you should place your order now so that you won't miss out! These will be perfect for my trips to Georgia or early jogs on the soon-to-be very chilly Florida mornings!

This is the Lilly angora scarf to match the mittens...so cute!

Well, I certainly don't need this watch, but love it! It's the Hermes Kelly watch .

Love these monogrammed felt Gigi bags from The Pink Monogram. These match their monogrammed clogs...so cute!

These monogrammed felt clutch bags are also from The Pink Monogram...look at all the colors and they are monogrammed as well! These are so chic.
I really really need an Hermes belt!!! Classic. Timeless. On the hunt.
Love this look...ribbon bows on ballet flats. I will be sporting this look real soon y'all!
Oh Lord, now I have to monogram my placemats. What a fabulous look!
Have a fabulous day y'all!

MANNERS IN THE SOUTH--ALIVE OR GONE WITH THE WIND?

2011-11-07T09:00:00.001-04:00

Lord have mercy, I'm glad Mama doesn't read the New York Times! According to this article, manners are on decline in the South. The Times based the article on a recent court case in Atlanta...of all places.

One night in August, two men walked into a bar...The Tavern at Phipps Plaza. They sat at the bar, ordered drinks and pondered the menu. Two ladies stood behind them. A bartender asked if they would mind offering their seats to the ladies. Yes, they would mind! Very much. Angry words came next, then a federal court date and a claim for more than $3 million in damages. {The men happened to be black and the ladies were white} The men's lawyers argued that the Tavern at Phipps used a policy wrapped in chivalry as a cloak for discriminatory racial practices.

In the end, a jury decided in favor of the bar.

Lord have mercy, the men sued the bar. Have you ever? Where are their manners?

Sometimes I wonder if manners are alive in the South or are they Gone With the Wind?! Is it because of the outsiders? Is it because people are just too busy to care anymore?

My parents raised my brother to always give up his seat for a lady or an elderly person. He was raised to say "Yes Ma'am/No Ma'am" and "Yes Sir/No Sir". In the South, this is not considered being subservient--it's about showing respect!

Do you teach your child manners? Do you think it's important that children say "Yes Ma'am/No Ma'am" and "Please" and "Thank you"? Do you believe the two men were acting tacky...not to give up their seats at the bar for the ladies?

I'm Not Skipping Thanksgiving

2011-11-06T11:00:00.002-04:00

No Ma'am...I'm not skipping Thanksgiving this year! I've spent the last few days bringing out my Thanksgiving decos and will keep them out until the weekend after Thanksgiving. That probably means I'll be half-dead by that weekend, with the Thanksgiving Feast, early morning Charity Turkey Trot 5k race, Thanksgiving Day parades, Black Friday marathon shopping, et cetera....then, taking down all the turkey decos and putting up the Christmas decos. Lord have mercy, I'm already exhausted just thinking about it all! Actually, I plan to spend some time at my Mama's between Thanksgiving and Christmas, so I'm not going all out on the Christmas decorations this year...yes ma'am, that's the plan!

This morning I went to Church and since it was All Saint's Day, the names of departed souls were printed in the Church bulletin. It always makes me sad to see my daddy's name there...still can't believe he's gone! I lifted up prayers for several close friends who are ill, my family members, close friends, and several social network friends, whom I've never even met.

"HERE'S WHAT I WORE"

Boucle Dress Suit: Talbots...long time ago.

The flower pin is from Stein Mart...long time ago.
Accessories:
Pocketbook: Chanel
Shoes: 'Vara' pumps, by Ferragamo
Cologne: Ferragamo
Hair bow: I actually didn't wear the gold barrette, but wore a tan grosgrain ribbon bow.
Lipstick: 'Talisman' by Chanel
Earrings: Pearls
Wedding Band: 'Eternity' by Cartier
"The Roost" is ready for Thanksgiving...
Autumn wreath is on the front door...
The tree is decorated with turkeys...
Old glory on the tree top...
Faith, Family, Friends...

Little feathered turkeys all over the tree!
This afternoon, I'm actually doing some planning for Thanksgiving...favors, treats, Thanksgiving Feast menu, et cetera...
The cornacopia is out...
Love my cornacopia!
Jazzed up the mirror with this feathered wreath...
I'll probably give out more of these gifts for Thanksgiving...Turkey Spice Rub!
I'm very OCD...organized to the hilt. Plan. Plan. Plan.
Organizing the platters, dinnerware, and serveware.
The kitchen is set up with some Thanksgiving decos...
Kitchen table...
Mums...Lord, I've already killed about 5 mums this season!
Thanksgiving dessert on the sideboard a few years back.
Thanksgiving tablescape...pilgrims and turkeys.
Most definitely will have the same leftover plan...white gift box, autumn tone shred, plastic plate, with the leftovers to take home.
Leftovers...ready to go...raffia and cute Thanksgiving tag!

Are you skipping over Thanksgiving this year? Is your home already decorated for Christmas? Don't be ashamed! Lord, in years past, I've been known to already have ten Christmas trees up and decorated by this date!

What I'm Loving Right Now

2011-11-04T04:00:00.001-04:00

Pin All Day...Pin All Night! I'm still loving Pinterest!

Thought y'all might like to see a few of things I'm loving this week:

Up first...I LOVE this look...the boots, the pocketbook, the leggings, the sweater, the scarf, and the sunglasses! Perfect!

This pewter cuff bracelet with the monogram...LOVE! This is from Marley Lilly.

This darling pocketbook...monogrammed of course, is on my shopping list! It's available in several colors, but I LOVE the pink. This must-have is available at The Pink Monogram.
I guess I'll never have a Birkin {unless my husband hits the lottery}...but one can dream right? LOVE it!!!!
Again, I love this look. Of course, she's absolutely gorgeous!
Although I love the look of the scarf with the brooch, I tried it and it was total failure on me. {Too much going on} It's still very cute!!!
This little jacket or the vest version would be cute for me to wear during the winter months on 5k race mornings. {I'm thinking pink with black monogram!} These are available at Marley Lilly.
LOVE this look. You can bet I'm going through my jewelry box looking for possible bracelets and watches to "stack." I love the cowl neck sweater also. Glad to see that these are back in style.
Is this dress not precious?! I LOVE it! It's on my list y'all and available in different colors on Etsy here.
That's just a little of "What I'm Loving" this week! There's so much cute stuff out there y'all!

Southern Living

2011-11-02T15:00:00.003-04:00

Y'all know that the Southern Living magazine is a staple on my coffee table. Each month I enjoy the time that I'm able to sit down, enjoy a glass of iced tea or a cup of hot tea and go through the magazine, drooling over everything inside...all of it Southern Style!

In the November issue I was excited to see that Southern Living has added a new column with Phoebe Howard, interior designer and Southern style expert..."Dear Mrs. Howard...'Solves Life's Little Decorating Emergencies'. The column will address life's little "decorating emergencies," says Howard, who will deliver practical advice and inspiration to commonly asked questions. Mrs. Howard is recognized as one of the foremost authorities on Southern style and if you visit here website here, you will see why! She also a blog which is a must-read...oh my goodness, it's full of beautiful photos y'all!
In the debut column, Howard tackles the common issue of how to arrange a coffee table by offering a simple, four-step formula. She shows how using key elements: something tall, one oddball object, something fresh and a stack of books can transform the look of any tabletop or space.

This classic parsons table goes well with a modern or traditional setting.
This mid-century modern table fits well with a traditional look.
This table is perfect to prop your feet on...very casual look.
Love this glass and brass table...adds sparkle to the room and is easy to clean!
The white Chinese table...not my style, but cute!

Make sure to get the November edition of Southern Living y'all...pretty cover and pretty stuff inside!

The Day After Halloween

2011-11-01T15:00:00.001-04:00

My my, we had an unbelievable amount of trick-or-treaters last night. My front porch quickly became the neighborhood portrait studio with Mamas photographing their little costumed-clad youngins next to our Halloween tree. We saw some really creative costumes and met a lot of new faces during the Halloween parade of visitors 2011.

Well today's another day...All Saints Day--a celebration of all Christian saints, particularly those who have no special feast days of their own. I need to get busy taking down the Halloween decorations and transforming the front porch tree into a Thanksgiving tree! But first, I must treat myself with a bagel and some Cranberry Chutney Bagel Spread*...a tradition on the "Day After Halloween!"

What is Chutney you might ask? Chutney is a relish orginating in India made with fruit and spices. The Chutney preserved the fruit itself so that it could be eaten out of season and it also acted as a cooling condiment to tone down the hot and spicy flavor of Indian curries.

Taste of Gourmet's Cranberry Chutney is a sweet, flavorful condiment filled with whole cranberries and spices to serve with roast turkey, chicken, or pork. You can mix a little of the Chutney into chicken salad or spread it on sliced turkey/ham sandwiches. A great party food treat: Cover the top of Brie cheese with the Cranberry Chutney, wrap it in pastry, and bake until browned! Tonight I think I will serve the Chutney with roasted chicken, green beans, and rice & gravy...yum yum y'all!

Recipe for Cranberry Chutney Bagel Spread:
2 to 3 tbsp Cranberry Chutney
8 oz cream cheese at room temperature

Mix the Cranberry Chutney into softened cream cheese. You can add a bit of milk or orange juice, if needed for softness. Spread onto warm bagels and enjoy! (The spread will last in the frig for a week).

The Cranberry Chutney is the Taste of Gourmet "Product of the Month" during November. Taste of Gourmet has a "Product of the Month" each month...a fundraising project to benefit the St. Jude Children's Hospital. Purchasing the Cranberry Chutney during the month of November will generate a $1.00 donation to St. Jude Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. The hospital is devoted to research and treatment toward eliminating chronic childhood diseases like leukemia and is the only childhood cancer research center designated by the National Cancer Institute.

It's time to start thinking about hostess gifts for the holidays. Food is a gift of love and is a perfect gift to give in this economy. We all have to eat y'all! Stock your entertaining pantry and gift closet while making a donation to St. Jude! A 12 oz jar of the Cranberry Chutney is only $8.95. This is delish y'all and will make a great hostess gift during the holidays. Just take your hostess a jar of the Chutney and some bagels that she can enjoy the next morning. You can order your Cranberry Chutney online here.

Gobble Gobble Y'all...we're on the road to Thanksgiving!

Halloween Night

2011-10-31T15:00:00.001-04:00

Happy Halloween...it's 6:30 p.m. and I believe that the rain is gonna stay away until the youngins get all their loot and go home!

We are on the porch...all ready giving out candy. I'm wearing my candy corn printed apron from my "Prissy Apron Collection" along with a black turtleneck, black jeans, and orange Revas.

Early birds get the best stuff...

The beverage station...
Beverage treats for the adult chaperones!
Mlle Coco Chanel is wearing her candy corn dress to match her Mama!
Hope y'all have a fun night!

Church Outfit of the Day

2011-10-30T07:00:00.001-04:00

Y'all know I like to dress appropriately when I go to church and today's outfit certainly meets all my guidelines for "Church attire."
HERE'S WHAT I WORE: The dress is by Donna Ricco and is certainly an appropriate dress for church. It has a shawl collar with 3/4 length cuffed sleeves.

The shawl collar adds to the prissiness of this dress.
I added one of my Chanel brooches...
The cuffed sleeves have pearl buttons...
The Accessories:
~Pocketbook--Ferragamo 'Lady Vara Kelly' bag
~Shoes--Ferragamo 'Vara' pumps
~Lipstick--'Star Red' and 'Miss Fizz' by Chanel

~Body Lotion & Cologne--'Coco Mademoiselle' by Chanel
~Earrings--Pearls
~Wedding--'Eternity' by Cartier

After church, I'll enjoy a quick lunch, then home to put together my Halloween treats for tomorrow night. I'm starting to get a bit nervous y'all...the weather forecast does NOT look good for the youngins! Rain and more rain for the entire week:( I'm already thinking of "Plan B" for all this candy--I have enough for the usual 500+ trick-or-treaters who show up every year. Already googling my options and it looks like there is a dentist nearby who accepts leftover Halloween candy and donates it to our troops overseas!!!

Y'all have a fabulous Sunday!

Hotty Toddy Gosh A Mighty

2011-10-29T05:00:00.001-04:00

With all the mess about the Ole Miss new mascot, you have to love this sign!!!

I would love to introduce to you my cousin Karole Sessums--she's an artist and owns the company Happy Go Lola. She's launching Tailgator Football Signs, an entertaining new product for football fans. The first Tailgator Sign of the SEC is the "Hotty Toddy Canoe", a special one-of-a-kind tribute to friends at Ole Miss, their mascot, and the final retirement of the beloved Colonel Reb. This would make a great gift or conversation piece for your home or lake/cabin/mountain/beach house...or, it would look real cute in your front yard!

Karole Sessums, Artist and creator of Tailgator Signs

Ms. Sessums is also offering the brand new "Tee-Hee Tee", the wearable version of the sign.
Karole's "Hotty Toddy Signs" being launched in The Grove!

During the month of November, Karole is offering $20 off her signs if you like Tailgator Signs on Facebook.

Signature signs will be released as quickly as possible for all SEC teams. All the wooden signs are handmade and can be customized and personalized. Be sure to visit Tailgator Signs HERE.

Have a great Gameday!

French Cuffs and Cuff Links for Ladies?

2011-10-27T03:00:00.001-04:00

I found this darling dark gray jumper at Target and thought it was so cute and the price was right. I decided to wear it with a white blouse with french cuffs and use my vintage {aka very old} monogrammed cufflinks.

Dress: Target
Blouse: Land's End
Tights: J Crew
Shoes: Bandolino Mary Janes
The Accessories:
Cufflinks: Gold disks with maiden-name monogram {Totally appropriate}
Earrings and Ring: Gold disks, again with maiden-name monogram
*I must have purchased the earrings, the ring, and the cufflinks around the same time since they all match!
Wedding Band: 'Eternity' by Cartier
Lipstick: 'Talisman' by Chanel
Cologne: Burberry
iPhone cover: Black with white monogram
Shoes: Mary Janes by Bandolino
Headband: Burberry
Watch: 'Oyster Perpetual' by Rolex
Pocketbook: Burberry
You can see in this close-up photo that all the monogrammed jewelry matches...I've always been matchy-match!
Are cufflinks appropriate for ladies? Absolutely! Cufflinks should be worn with blouses with double cuffs {French cuffs}. I think they add a little personality to an outfit and they are so fun! I also think they help to make an otherwise drab outfit look more feminine.

Cufflinks would also add a special touch to a blouse worn with a skirt or pantsuit in a business setting.

Here's another close-up of my monogrammed cufflink.
These white knot cufflinks were included with the blouse and I can use them when I'm in monogram overload! The silver monogrammed cufflinks below these are next ON MY LIST!

Thank you for stopping in today to visit with me. Remember, you can still use your items monogrammed with your maiden monogram, even if you are married and using your husband's surname.

What I'm Loving Right Now

2011-10-25T05:00:00.001-04:00

The web is full of inspirational photos and since I've joined Pinterest, I have becomed obsessed with pinning all my faves onto my style boards. One of my favorites on Twitter-- True Southern Gents tweeted the other day "Pinterest is being blown up by the female population and I'm benefiting by enjoying an ungodly amount of baked goods." Yes Pinterest is where you can find the most fabulous ideas for fashion, home decorating, weddings, recipes, and all kinds of cute things.

Take a look at this darling Halloween tree...puts mine to shame. Lord have mercy, it's darling!

This outdoor tablescape is just perfect and so inviting!Love the decorations for this front porch area.
Love the dots on the pumpkins and the door treatment!
Recipes for pumpkin milkshakes are all over the internet now. I made some with just vanilla ice cream and pumpkin puree. Voila...quick and easy!
Look at these mums...I don't know how people keep their mums looking so beautiful. Lord, I've had my second batch for not even two weeks and I'm already starting to see brown petals. Boo hiss!

This tree would be appropriate from September till New Year's Eve! Not an Auburn fan, but still LOVE it!

For the nights out on the back patio, I could certainly make use of old Merlot bottles and turn them into torches...with my monogram of course!
Last, but certainly not least...look at this darling porch! Aren't these decorations just perfect...of course, the trees in the background coordinate with the look!
Hope y'all are having a fabulous week! Thank you for stopping by.

Pan Am

2011-10-23T16:00:00.001-04:00

The new television show Pan Am takes place back in the glamorous jet-set age of the 60's. The show features the flight crew of Pan Am...traveling around the world to places young ladies dream of visiting. The cast is perfect!!!

Christina Ricci, as Maggie Ryan, the Flight Crew Purser.

Left to right: Karine Vanasse as Colette Valois, a French Pan Am Stewardess, orphaned during the German occupation of France during World War II. She still harbors resentment against German people. Kelli Garner as Kate Cameroni, older sister to Lauren and the experienced Stewardess. Margot Robbie as Lauren Cameron, who is newly out of training.

Mike Vogel as Dean Lowery, Captain on Pan Am International flights.

Michael Mosley as Ted Vanderway, First Officer on Pan Am.

The Stewardesses of Pan Am...walked like ladies and carried their pocketbooks with the arm angled just so!

The Stewardesses had specific standards of beauty. Their weight was constantly checked, their appearance had to be perfect, and they were expected to be perfect ladylike reps of Pan Am. I love the old school chic stewardess uniforms. Pill box hats perched two fingers above the eyebrows and light colored stockings, which were, of course, de rigueur. And...those white gloves {always cleaned and pressed} sealed the deal for me!!!
The coveted Pan Am bag!!!

Yes, we all wore those curlers in our hair while sleeping at night...had to wear them, to get the look! {Flip or Bob}

They wore girdles to shape their figures and so they wouldn't jiggle...jiggling is not ladylike at all! Of course, the girdles had garters to hold their stockings...pantyhose weren't worn back then. Lord have mercy, my Mama still doesn't own a pair of pantyhose, she only wears stockings! The long line bullet bras were worn also and helped to maintain good posture.

Cocktail service back in the day on Pan Am

{image Nick Verreos}

Dinner was served in style back then

{image Nick Verreos}

I long for the days when flying was a pleasure...back when we didn't have to be worried about our safety, when we actually received meals and good service, when people dressed appropriately to be out in public. I haven't flown in years due to the fact that I am plum scared of flying anymore after September 11th, and also that I can't take the airbus-atmosphere, with people being squeezed onto the plan and seated practically on top of each other.

That's okay, because I've traveled the world to all the places I've ever wanted to visit and now I enjoy roadtrips!!!

You can watch Pan Am on Sunday nights at 10:00 p.m. ET on ABC. Thank you for stopping by today!

Marley Lilly Scarves

2011-10-21T19:00:00.002-04:00

Just in time for the Fall season, Marley Lilly has the cutest monogrammed pashmina scarves!

Look at all the colors...again, I'm loving that houndstooth pattern, and the purple one, and the brown one, and the red one.
The camel and zebra print are both catching my eye also!!!
And monogrammed, to make them extra special and preppy!

So, you can be sure when you wear one of these precious scarves, people are gonna ask you "Where did you get that?" When you receive your order, these darling little pink & green cards are enclosed to hand out to those who "Need to know."

You can go HERE to see the chart on some basic pashmina folds...

I wore the orange scarf {monogrammed in lime green} today folded in the #1 Loop-n-Through Fold...with a black long sleeve tee, J Crew jeans, and orange Revas.

Please excuse the underline...ugh! won't go away:(

The accessories:
Earrings: Givenchy
Wedding Band: 'Eternity' by Cartier
Lipstick: 'Talisman' by Chanel
Cologne: Burberry
iPhone cover: Black with white monogram
Ballet Flats: Revas by Tory Burch
Watch: 'Oyster Perpetual by Rolex
Barrette and Wrist Cuff: J Crew

The earrings: Givenchy

The pocketbook: Louis Vuitton

You can go here to pin any of the Marley Lilly items onto Pinterest..."Pin All Day, Pin All Night!"

Pumpkin Pudding in Prissy Parfait Cups

2011-10-20T15:00:00.001-04:00

Last night I prepared a simple Pumpkin Pudding and served it in some real prissy parfait cups.

Silver parfait cups with etched glass...

This pudding is a real sweet treat for Autumn and very simple to prepare.
The pecan topping adds just a bit more sweetness!
Recipe for Pumpkin Pudding Parfait:
1 cup milk {I used non-fat}
1 15-oz can pumpkin
2 small packages vanilla instant pudding
1 1/4 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
2 cups cool whip

~Topping~
Cinnamon sticks
1 tblsp melted butter
1/2 cup chop pecans
1/3 cup sugar

Pour the milk into a bowl and add the canned pumpkin, instant pudding, and pumpkin spice. Beat the mixture with a whisk until it is blended and thick. Fold in the whip cream. Spoon the mixture into parfait cups. Refrigerate.

Mix the melted butter, chopped pecans, and sugar together and sprinkle on top. Add a cinnamon stick as garnish to each cup.

I found this cute Autumn apron at Hobby Lobby. *Note to self: Stop buying the ruffle skirt aprons...they add 3 inches to each of my hips!

A little Autumn decorations to the kitchen hutch...

And the sideboard...
Thank you for stopping by today to visit with me!

Prancing Around in my Prissy Clogs

2011-10-19T19:00:00.001-04:00

I added these Pink Monogram clogs to my "Prissy Clog Collection"...black suede with pink pom fringe and pink monogram! Love these!!!

Now that the temperatures are no longer in the 90's, I am bringing out all my fall stuff. We are expecting a cold front tomorrow here in South Florida and I'm sooooo excited! Anyhow, today I pranced around town in my new clogs and wore my "fat day jeans" with a white blouse. I added a pink pashmina from my "Scarf Collection" so that I could be somewhat matchy match!
My Accessories:
Watch: 'Oyster Perpetual by Rolex
Earrings: Gold buttons from forever ago
Wedding band: 'Eternity' by Cartier
Cologne: 'Love' by Brighton
Lipstick: 'Laser Pink' by Chanel

iPhone cover: It's pink, of course!
Shoes: Black suede clogs, pink pom fringe and pink monogram by The Pink Monogram
Eyeglasses: Black
Pocketbook: 'Pimlico' by Ralph Lauren
Monica, at The Pink Monogram offers darling clogs with fantastic monograms and a wide selection of colors and styles.

These are the original clogs.
These felted wool clogs are the newest addition at The Pink Monogram.
She also offers these fashionable clogs with a higher heel.
Aren't these faux fur clogs AdorAble?!
LOVE these new fabric clogs...I'm obsessed with houndstooth right now y'all!
Stop by The Pink Monogram and check out all the preppy clogs...you will love them! They are so stylish and comfortable as well!

Outfits and Halloween Decos

2011-10-16T08:00:00.001-04:00

Thought y'all might like to see a few of the Autumn/Halloween decos I have out front...I searched high and low for this wreath and finally found an Etsy store here. She designs the cutest wreaths!

I think I'll get a Christmas wreath in the lime and green dots...which is the theme I have planned for the porch again this year.

If you follow me on twitter, you already know about my Halloween tree drama. This is Miss Coco and myself in front of the tree last year...

I put up the tree again this year and last week a tropical storm came through town and blew it down! I had a mess. This photo was taken after I swept up all the broken ornaments.

Well, it's up again...looking a little bit more shabby than I would like.

This is where the UPS boy leaves all my "cute loot!"

Sometimes the loot overflows into this area...

Two slackers on the settee...

I know, kinda lame! :)

A little sunshine on the porch!

Pumpkins and roses...

The birds are NOT happy with me!

"HERE'S WHAT I'VE BEEN WEARING"

Pants: Black denim by Ralph Lauren
Cardigan: Lime green by Lilly Pulitzer
Scarf: Lilly Pulitzer patterns by Lynn Whelan
Ballet Flats: Turquoise suede by Lilly Pulitzer
Pocketbook: Belvah Bag monogrammed in turquoise
The Accessories:

Lipstick: 'Laser Pink' by Chanel
Nail polish: 'Natural Pink' by Chanel
iPhone Cover: Black with white monogram
Cologne: 'Wink' by Lilly
Shoes: Turquoise suede ballet flats by Lilly Pulitzer
Barrette: Chanel
Watch: 'Oyster Perpetual' by Rolex
Gold charm bracelet, 'Eternity' wedding band by Cartier, gold monogrammed earrings and matching ring.

Monogrammed tote by Belvah Bags.

Trying to keep it bright and cheerful, I wore this 'Sabine' shirt dress by Lilly, with pink tights, navy Revas, and a navy pocketbook by Ferragamo.
The accessories:
Cologne: 'Wink' by Lilly Pulitzer
Lipstick: 'Laser Pink' by Chanel

Nail polish: 'Lovie Dovie' by Essie
iPhone cover: Hot pink
Hair bow: Navy grosgrain ribbon
Shoes: Navy 'Revas' by Tory Burch
Ring: 'Eternity' wedding by Cartier
Necklace, bracelet, and earrings: Pearls

Navy pocketbook by Ferragamo...
Super casual day...
Jeans: Ralph Lauren
Tee: Flower tee by J Crew
Cardigan: J Crew
Shoes: Black clogs monogrammed in tan by The Pink Monogram
Pocketbook: 'Pimlico' by Ralph Lauren

The accessories:
Makeup: Chanel
Lipstick: 'Talisman' by Chanel
Nail Polish: 'Natural Pink' by Chanel
Cologne: 'Lauren' by Ralph Lauren
iPhone cover: Black with white monogram
Headband: Ferragamo
Shoes: Black clogs monogrammed in tan by The Pink Monogram
Watch: 'Oyster Perpetual' by Rolex
Ring: 'Eternity' wedding band by Cartier
Necklace, earrings, and bracelet by Chanel

The 'Pimlico' black tote is by Ralph Lauren and I tied a vintage YSL scarf onto the handles...
I'm relaxing today and being super lazy! Getting ready for my must-see Sunday evening television shows!!!

LOVE Dexter. I have been fan of the show since DAY ONE!

My new favorite show is PAN AM. Love the girls. Love the clothes. Of course, I love all the prissiness, also. You can bet that I'm holding my pocketbooks just like the girls in the photo below...with my arm angled just so!
Hope y'all have a fabulous week!

Gridiron Belles

2011-10-12T04:00:00.003-04:00

You might be a Southern Lady if...you love football and have been known to tailgate on Gameday! Whether you watch the football games at home with family and friends or hit the road and enjoy the tailgate experience, there's a book for you! It's "Gridiron Belles"...a guide to Saturdays in Dixie, by Christie Leigh Mueller. This book is a guide for every Southern belle with all the must-knows for becoming a Gridiron Belle--fashion, etiquette, football 101, and Gameday foods.

Author Christie Leigh Mueller {in the middle} with designer Annabelle Laroque {on the right} at Annabelle's shop in Columbia, South Carolina...for a Gridiron Belle book signing. LOVE the Laroque dresses the girls are wearing!

You can visit the author's site here and purchase the book for $24.99.

Wondering what to wear on Gameday? Visit A Southern Belles Guide and check out the polyvores she created for Gameday HERE.

Or visit Brooke, at Shrimp and Glitz, she wears the cutest clothes ever and has posted some of her Gameday outfits on her blog here.

This would be a darling Gameday dress...designed by Annabelle Laroque.

How cute are these school sashes to wear with your dresses?!...by Annabelle Laroque. You can also get your monogram on these sashes...love them:)

How cute is this y'all?
Of course, your koozie MUST match your Gameday outfit. Check out these custom monogrammed koozies from Invite Cottage.

These koozies are from a new company I'm excited about...Southern Dignity. In December, they will be offering Southern clothing for a Southern lifestyle...classic style and rich tradition. Specializing in the qualities that define our culture and cater to the men and women that exemplify it.

You can also have a custom wreath made to show your school spirit...check out the fabulous wreaths at this Etsy shop here.

In addition to the usual Gameday foods of chicken wings, slider burgers, dips, chips, et cetera, these brownies made in the shape and design of footballs would be a hit at the table!

Cake pops are all the rage now. For the cutest, most show-stopping cake pops ever, visit Marilyn at Pink Martinis and Pearls. She posted a tutorial here for these awesome pops! Aren't they the best?! I LOVE them!!!

So, whether you are heading to the game or hosting Gameday at home, you will want to make sure you have all the cute loot you'll need! All the products below are available from The Pink Monogram.

Show your team pride with a cute collegiate yard flag...

Personalized Tervis Tumblers
Show your team pride while sippin' your gameday beverage!
All kinds of Greek products are available!

Picnic coolers...a must to transport your Gameday foods and they can be monogrammed!

Personalize your flask...oh my!

Stadium seats can also be personalized!
Thank you for stopping by today! Hope you are enjoying the football season!!!