Christmas Q & A

I found this on Preppy Little Dress, a great blog I stumbled upon today. If you like it then copy and paste and put it in your blog! Or, just leave a comment with an answer to one of these questions ....

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Both – But I prefer paper if I have time! And real ribbon, preferably grosgrain!

2. Real tree or Artificial? REAL!!!

3. When do you put up the tree? Usually at least a week into December.

4. When do you take the tree down? After the Twelve Days of Christmas, of course. So January 6ish …

5. Do you like eggnog? Uh, I’d rather have champagne please! Or spiked cider … yummmmm.
6. Favorite gift received as a child? My American Girl Doll, Samantha! Or the Easy Bake Oven ... how to choose!?

7. Hardest person to buy for? Everyone else, though it is helpful when my Mom or sister make a list!

8. Easiest person to buy for? Myself …

9. Do you have a nativity scene? Yes! That reminds me, I should get that while I am home since I now have my own house to decorate.

10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail – except this year, our wedding pictures didn’t get to us in time for a Christmas card so we are going with a New Years Card!!

11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received?
The one I didn't receive ... I always wanted one of those little electric cars - like a Barbie Jeep or something and my mother, ever so careful that I don't crack my skull open, never obliged ... every time I see one I still get jealous. Sad.

12. Favorite Christmas Movie? I know it is not a “classic” but I adore Love Actually. The Grinch Stole Christmas and A Charlie Brown Christmas are always on my play list.

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? I collect things as I find them – a trick I learned from my darling mother.

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? I am going to this year … but shhh, I can’t say what it was so I don’t get caught!!

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Christmas Cookies! I love my mom’s Raisen Drops. Maybe I’ll post the recipie if you’re lucky!!

16. Lights on the tree? I used to be the white light police in my family. However, now I appreciate the fact that all holiday décor was most likely put up with a heart full of joy so I will admire any light, gaudy or stylish … but for the Southern Grace household, there will only be white lights …

17. Favorite Christmas song? Santa Baby … but as far as hymns go, I love Once in Royal David’s City and O Holy Night.

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Home is where the family is … but from now on, that involves traveling …

19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? You know Dasher and Dancer and Prancer and Vixen, Comet and Cupid, Donder and Blitzen … but do you recall, the most famous reindeer of all?? (That would be Rudolph …)

20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Growing up, an angel … when I decorated the tree for my roommate and I in college I had this beautiful pearl and crystal topper that looked like an old broach … it is beautiful. But I am toying of starting my own tradition which is that the broach topper stays on until Christmas and then on Christmas Eve, we change it to an angel … kind of the way you wait until Christmas Eve/Day to add Jesus to the manger … But, we would need to have our own tree in our own house to begin said tradition.

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Naturally, we open our matching/coordinating pajamas on Christmas Eve so that we can wear them and look cute on Christmas morning. Then everything else waits to the “big day’.

22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? When people lose the meaning and bad attitudes ensue …

23. Favorite ornament, theme, or color? My favorite theme is natural greenery. Anywhere you can have live holly, live paper whites, live amaryllis, live poinsettia, live garland, live wreaths, live trees … I like it alive!!!

Me and my dear friend, MEH, in front of my little tree when ACR and I lived together during college. You can almost see the pretty pearl and crystal broach topper!!

Whirlwind Week

So it has obviously been a while since I have put the ol' fingers to keyboard and the simple excuse is because I have been busy beyond belief. Since we last chatted, the Mr. and I took a weekend trip to his beloved Pittsburgh to attend the Pitt V. Cincinnati game. This was actually my wedding gift to him and oh how I would have loved it if the Panthers could have pulled one out for us but they lost, tragically, by one point in a game that can only be described as dishearteningly epic. By the way, it was freezing (as in hovering around the 20's and SNOWING for the entire game) As you can see by this picture below, tailgating at Pitt games actually involves ... a car ... unlike my four years tailgating on the Boulevard at SMU.

While tailgating last Saturday, I had this odd inclination to check my email. I had been subbing for the past two days for the teacher who was preparing to go on maternity leave and though she was two weeks away from her due date, I just had this feeling that her bundle of joy would be arriving early. Lo and behold, I checked my email only to discover that she had gone in to labor early that Saturday morning. My time had come! So enter in the second reason I have been missing in action ... this week has been CRAZY adjusting to my new schedule.

I don't think my husband truly grasped how hard teaching would be. And in this situation I have an unbelievable team to work with and for the most part, the lessons are totally planned out - I just have to make sure there are enough copies for my new crop of 140 students and that their assignments are graded. But never-the-less, the earliest I have made it home this past week was 6:15 PM ... and I get to school at 7:30 AM. Considering I have five, 50 minutes periods where I do nothing but stand and talk, this teaching gig is unbelievably exhausting!! But I will tell you my little secret ... at the end of the day, I walk to my car with my legs aching and feet throbbing with the voice of a man and I have never felt so fulfilled in my life. Granted I have only been teaching for 7 actual school days but I could have easily had the opposite experience where I end my day going "Get me out of here!!" So I take this as a good sign ...

Anyways - I will try my best to update this little blog better throughout this week. SO many exciting things to chat about how will I choose! My sweet sister, AEW has been accepted to The Florida State University (FSU) so woo hoo for her!! She also has her debutante ball coming up in just 6 days!! For this, Mr. SG and I will be journeying home to Florida and then will stay the week and spend it celebrating with family and loved ones.

Have a fabulous Monday everyone!!

The Front Door Mat

Here is my front door mat - not blatantly Christmas but I really like the design. I could also use it for Valentines Day! Mr. SG was not this mat's biggest fan at first. We found it at Nordstrom Rack (the Nordstrom outlet) in their home section back in November. I think it was between $12 -$15 dollars and is the TAG brand. Anyways, he doesn't understand my need for holiday appropriate front door mats (getting the Halloween mat was quite the discussion but ultimately I won when I found one on sale). So we fought about this silly little mat while in Nordstrom - it ended when I said, "Fine ... whatever you think."

We continued on shopping in the area and as we passed the store again, I said "That really was a nice mat ... Are we really not going to have a Christmas mat?" The next week while I was at home tying up last minute wedding details, Mr. SG snuck back to Nordstrom and bought the mat in secret. It was waiting for me at home when we got back from the airport. What a nice surprise ... then I felt like a brat. But I was happy to get my festive foot wiper after all.

Thanks for the mat dear ... doesn't it look good after all??

December

Last night, Mr. SG and I bought our wreath. This wreath is incredibly important to me because I haven't yet been able to persuade hubby to get a tree due to the fact that we are leaving to spend Christmas with our families in just three weeks. I have always had a tree ... obviously growing up we had one and when I went to college, I had a miniature tree in my dorm, my roommate ACR and I had one in our apartment every year and when we moved into the Kappa house they had a tree! So this will be one, sad, treeless year ... But at least I get my wreath! We went to a Christmas tree lot that had some beautiful, BEAUTIFUL trees (the lot by the TCBY at Mockingbird and Abrams). And they had this glorious wreath that is made up of evergreen and boxwood - an interesting combo that I wasn't even sure I liked at first but now I am in love!

Notice my beloved wreath is not artificial ... I am a big proponent of live greenery. I don't know what it is except that growing up, our greenery was always real except for one garland on the front staircase (and that was just in case we couldn't get fresh greenery in time). I love the smell of the real thing. And even though living in Florida made it difficult to get our hands on the 'good stuff' - we always ordered from LL Bean if our typical tree lot was lacking. Anyways, here are some images below of beautiful, live winter accessories (minus one) ...

Here is some triple wreath action - I am loving the hurricanes flanking the doorway.

Here is a beautiful example of staircase swagging with a eucalyptus/evergreen combo ... I am really loving these unique greenery combos!!

These beautiful pepperberry wreaths are a fun way to have an alternative to evergreen if you don't want to deal with the sap. I love wreaths on the staircase instead of garland. But I love both ... how could I ever choose!

And finally, the holiday ball wreath. If you don't want to do evergreen then this is a great, long-lasting and allergy friendly alternative. And I think the garland in the back is some sort of faux ... I guess if Martha can do it then its ok ....

Honeymoon Recap

The Mr. and I are back from our honeymoon in Bachelor Gulch (Beaver Creek), CO. It was amazing but certainly not for the faint of heart. We were in bed by 9:30 PM each night and up by 8:00 AM ... I am sure to some people those times represent a normal bedtime and sleeping in BUT I don't usually nod off until midnight and if I have no where to be on a weekend or vacation, I am in bed until 10:00 AM!! Bottom line, at the end of the day we were exhausted!!

Skiing was pretty decent for opening weekend. Everyone right and left was complaining about the conditions (there was definitely some "packed powder") but seriously - what do you expect at the end of November people!? This was Mr. SG's first time skiing and in his words, on the first day he " wanted to kill me for dragging him out here!" The next day he was much better (even his instructor was impressed) and the by the third day, my little ski bunny was speeding down some pretty steep faces!

The hotel was amazing. The Ritz backed up to its own lift so that you could literally head downstairs, grab breakfast at Spago, walk out the back of the hotel where the Ski Valets would have your equipment ready and then voila - you hop on the lift! The Spa facilities were to-die-for and I had one of the best massages of my life. For those who know me, my life has had many massages in it thanks to my generous and homeopathic believing mother - so that's saying something about this masseuse!

The food never disappointed. We dined at Grouse Mountain Grill, Splendido, and Spago (the other two nights we canceled our reservations because we were too exhausted and just munched on the Club Floor fair).

But now we are back to Dallas-land. Husband is back to work and I am heading into the classroom because the sweet teacher I will be subbing for is due any day now! I am "on call" and fully expect to be telephoned at any hour to find out I must step in and teach these lovelies some Science for the next few months!

The Easiest Appetizer

I am in love with this amazingly easy and delicious recipe that I discovered this week. If you don't like goat cheese then this isn't the recipe for you ..

This reminds me of a story actually ... One of my best friends and roommate of 3 years, ACR and I loved to entertain in college. We had amazing dinner parties - seriously, they were not your average college dinner party. On one such occasion, we were having a post "Celebration of Lights" (an SMU Christmas tradition) dinner of homemade Chicken Pot Pie and as we were setting out our salad with Pear, Raspberries, toasted walnuts and goat cheese she asked me, "What if they don't like goat cheese?" I matter-of-factly replied, "Then they are not welcome in our house." This cracked her up and became a personal joke/standard of judging potential friends from this point on.

So the recipe ...

Goat Cheese Crostini

You need one baguette (some places will give you half of a baguette which is preferable when you are cooking for two) and you should have the grocery store slice your baguette on the diagonal to get the "crostinis". Toast the crostinis in the oven (approx. 10-12 minutes at 350 degrees).

Use a fork to mash together the following ingredients: a 5 oz. pack of soft goat cheese, 1/4 cup of chives (the skinny ones), and two TBSP of shredded Parmesan.

Spread this delicious concoction on your toasted crostinis and voila! You could also stuff cherry tomatoes with this, use it as dip for vegetables, etc ... It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

We munched on ours while cooking a casual, weeknight dinner for two but it could easily be swanked up! The chives (being green and all) made this look a little wintry too so maybe for your next holiday gathering you could serve this.

And if you don't like goat cheese then you are not welcome at my blog ... just kidding!!

One week anniversary

We have officially been married for one week. I have been trying to get a copy of our marriage license (which is in Florida) so that I can change my name here in Texas, so I know for a fact that our license has been processed which means it is truly official!

When trying to find out our status, I would call the clerks office and say "I am calling to see if my marriage license has been processed yet ..." I wonder how funny that must have sounded, like maybe I had changed my mind and wanted to stop it before it was too late! But no, just trying to make the name change!

We have begun getting social invitations addressed to "Mr. and Mrs. H " which is fun to see. But poor husband thought my name change would be official before our honeymoon next week so he reserved my lift ticket with my new last name ... sadly it doesn't work that fast (especially in Texas - Florida is much easier which is ultimately where I am going to do the change I have since figured out ...) Never-the-less I am hoping that they can keep our name on the ticket as a fun, honeymoon souvenir!!

I know there are many arguments for a woman keeping her name, most of which I agree with, but seeing as I have nothing professional (or reasons otherwise) tying me down to my maiden name, the choice was easy for me. I will be thrilled to take his last name as a means to unify the two of us as a family. There are so many other options out there tailored to each individual couple (hyphenating, combining, new name, etc ...), but taking his name was the right one for us. Someone asked me once if (by my logic of taking a name to become a family) I would have him take my name and I couldn't really come up with a good reason why that wouldn't accomplish the same goal, but for whatever reason, becoming Mrs. H just felt like the way to go. Maybe its because I have always wanted to move up the alphabet ... being a "W" for so long has its rough times! The one somewhat unique thing I am doing is keeping all of my names ... I couldn't bear to part with my first name, as it is my mothers and I go by my middle name but how could I drop my last name when I have identified with it for so long! So we'll see how that works out at the DMV ... four names on a drivers license will look interesting!

I will leave you with a hilarious picture of our cat, Harper. Scout is staying with Grandma and Grandpa in Florida for the next few weeks due to all of our traveling so Harper is looovvviinnnnggg her vacation. Here she is passed out on her Daddy's lap, oblivious to the fact that her sister will be returning in a few weeks ... enjoy it while you can Harper!

Kitchens

Not that its happening soon (Mr. SG, if you're reading this don't freak out ...) but the SG household has some changes happening in its future. Now that we know we'll be here for at least 2.5 more years due to my Teach For America commitment, its time to start customizing our little dwelling place. Last year we bought a 2 bedroom 2 bathroom condo near the Park Cities and while we know it is not smart to make serious changes to a place like this, there are definitely some movements on the horizon. It is my opinion that if you make some small changes that get you even the slightest return (or none) it is worth it because it enhances your lifestyle while you are living there. I have a small wish list of changes to make, that are simple, neutral and some that I believe will impact buyers when we eventually decided to move on.

I totally agree with the thought process that kitchens sell houses! Our kitchen is nice enough - stainless appliances, a decent amount of storage and granite tile counter tops. But we can do much better. For starters, I would like to get granite slab. The tiles irk me. It is like they went half way.

Secondly, I'd like to change the cabinets a little. Right now, they are builder standard - you know, no handles and some curvy grooves to 'add interest'. They are blah is what they are. So I am thinking of mixing in some glass pane cabinets with lighting.

So for our new kitchen, which is happening in the next six months, I am going the white kitchen route. I remember the day when I was watching an HGTV special on kitchens and they were talking all about "white kitchens" and I thought - oh, how boring. My kitchen growing up was a tastefully done French Provincial with a customized china blue hutch and warm cabinets with beautiful molding etc, etc ... So in my mind, that is what kitchens were! And I still love my mother's kitchen - however, I am warming to the white -especially since we have to create a buyer friendly look. So below are some images that have my mind running around!

Note the openness that this kitchen (above) creates. Yum Yum!! The glass, I really feel, make it feel warm yet spacious. (Granted, it is an enormous kitchen .... jealous!!)

This example shows Ikea cabinets - they are so reasonably priced and give an effect similar to its more expensive counterparts. I love the chopping block counter tops, and they are tres reasonable, but they do not sell kitchens. Granite sells!

I do love the white marble, but as a more affordable and universal compromise, I am thinking about a granite in the warm grey tones like this one. Our current granite is black, with some interesting flecks in it which I surprisingly like. It gives a similar look to slate, which is also an awesome counter look.

I suppose we have some time. My understanding is that the decor priority list is as follows: Replace closet and household doors (we are not loving our current ones ...), get towels, pillows and silver frames monogrammed with our new monogram, paint and reupholster our desk chair, paint our steal-of-a-deal china cabinet (another blog post in its entirety ...) figure out the hole in the bathroom wall .... tricky ... and then the kitchen!!!

Kitchen suggestions are welcome!!!

Mrs. Southern Teacher

So I have to share with you some good, non-wedding related news first. One of the pieces of news I have been bubbling at the brim to share with you all and the other I just found out!

The First Piece

Starting in the next few weeks I am going to be long-term subbing for an amazing middle school science class while their teacher has her beautiful baby! This little deal has been in the works for a while but now I am fortunate enough to say it is pretty official and I am simply waiting for the call that she is in labor and I will grab my coat, run out the door and teach science! My position here could last anywhere from 6 - 12 weeks depending on what she chooses to take. Most likely it will be on the longer side (more time to spend with the precious bundle of joy!). The position falls over Christmas break which extends the actual time period a bit, but I am so looking forward to getting to know these wonderful students and doing my best to fill her shoes for the time being.

The Second Piece

It is a good thing that I am getting this sort of subbing practice because next year I will have my very own classroom. Yes dears, I was just offered a position with Teach For America. For those of you unfamiliar with this wonderful program, here is the short of it. TFA is a non-profit organization celebrating its 20th anniversary this year of helping to eradicate the inequality this country sees in its education system. Last year, over 35,000 graduating college students and professionals applied to be a part of this movement and approximately 15% percent were chosen to fill teaching positions within underprivileged rural and urban school districts. TFA is considered highly competitive and in fact, around 10% of the Ivy League's graduating classes apply for a position. Each of these applicants share a common interest in being a part of the solution.

Next August, I will teach High School English right here in Dallas, TX. I am so honored to have the opportunity to make this kind of difference. I am already hatching and scheming to develop a fun curriculum that covers a broad range of English subject matter ranging from literature, grammar to public speaking. After spending 6 weeks in Houston this summer, developing lesson plans, I know I will be ready to walk into my classroom. My substituting experience this year I am sure will only help in my classroom management abilities.

One thing I must figure out once all of the lesson plans are in order and the classroom is organized is what to wear on my feet! If subbing so far has taught me nothing, its that teachers need a good army of stylish yet comfortable shoes. I am considering the Cole Haan Nike Air variety - especially these simple and classic pumps.

If you have any good shoe or teaching advice it is definitely welcome!

Mr. and Mrs.

It is official dear readers! I am a Mrs!! Our wedding was this past Saturday and let me tell you it went off without a hitch. The weather was unbelievable, every detail fell into place and it was absolutely stunning. Walking down the aisle of the church I grew up in, surrounded by loved ones and meeting my husband at the alter was one of the most spiritual experiences I have ever had.

I have been MIA obviously because I was a little tied up over in Florida but I am prepared to come back to this blog gradually and bringing with me fun treats! There are so many amazing events and moments to share with you all and just a gigantic pile of good news!!!

Before I head off to the grocery store to stock up on supplies to cook our first dinner in our home as husband and wife, I will leave you with a picture (though a tad blurry) of Mr. SG and I dancing our first dance to Etta James, Sunday Kind of Love.

Sexy Little Post ...

One of the fun things about planning for my wedding is getting to buy lingerie. I love a great bra and underwear set - matching lace, little bow details, etc ... But 9 times out of 10, I take home the "practical" choice. My sweet bridesmaids and friends threw me a lingerie shower and I'll tell you, this spurred my desire to don more sexified undergarments - at least during the honeymoon! So they set me up with some great little numbers that were totally "me" and meanwhile, inspired my inner -vixen to come out!! So for this post I am going to show you some "sexy little things" that caught my eye the other day while I was shopping for my "trousseau".

My relationship with lingerie has been a funny one for many reasons. But let me share with you a trip down memory lane with 14 year-old Southern Grace. It was the summer before freshman year and all the cool girls had started wearing thongs. When I relayed this to my Mom she thought I meant flip -flops. Oh my sweet, optimistic mother, how wrong you were. Of course, like the responsible mother she was, she denied my request for a panty-line-free existence.

One afternoon, while on a mall trip with Dad, I snuck away to Victoria Secret to purchase my contraband undergarment. I quickly picked out a plain thong and nervously brought it up to the counter. I said "It's for my mother - a present." Can we say 'awkward' all together now? What teenager buys their mom a nude thong as a present? Its not like they looked at me funny - I mean, I was a 5' 7" 14 year old who was constantly offered a glass of wine while out to dinner with the parents, it wouldn't have been so inconceivable that I would be buying a thong. So there you have it. My one thong. And I didn't even have the courage to wear it because there was the laundry issue ... whoops! Didn't think that one through ... I am not sure my sweet mom even knows this story. Oh well, she does now ... Hi mom!! Sorry about that one ...

Before getting into the choices another story ... I was in Claire's today, picking out some little pearl necklaces for the three flower girls in my wedding. I was horrified to find white, fishnet thigh highs with red bows on top. In Claires!! The target demographic is girls - young girls - middle schoolers!! I tried to find a picture on Claires.com but couldnt. Instead, these pictures are literally exactly what they look like but made to fit you 8-13 year old daughter thankyouverymuch!!! Ugh - an abomination. Picture me, having bought lingerie for my wedding all morning, which may I add while doing so felt like it was a special rite of passage or something, only to come into this tweenage store and see that sexy numbers like these are being made for and marketed to children? My mind was going crazy - thus this rant. But now, on to the main point - buying lingerie when it is appropriate - you are a grown-up, you are getting married, etc ...

If you're like me, you have discerning taste even when it comes to lingerie. I, therefore, am drawn to things that are sweet and sexy. I like the items that are bombshell-esque but that I can still sleep in with out strangling myself on multiple straps in the middle of the night.

I love the color, not to mention the bow across the chest! The sweet three tiered bottom is modest enough yet playful being a little bit sheer.

This one definitely says "Bride". Again, sweet and reasonable! It has an elegance to it. If you want to really send the "marital message", find something like this - white, frilly, girly and innocent looking.

Finally, my personal favorites - thigh highs. Nothing makes me feel sexier than putting on a pair of these babies. This is that "1 out of 10" times I was talking about when I didn't make the practical choice. Dress your gams in thigh highs under a cocktail dress this winter and you'll feel sexy, confident and powerful.

Which brings me to my most important point. Yes, I am writing this because I am getting married and thus have made the proverbial pilgrimage to the land of lace in preparation - but even when this lingerie has been for my eyes only, that 10% when I indulged was wonderful. Putting on a cute pair of boy shorts instead of Hanes "to-the-belly-button" might just be the thing you need that day to give you an extra boost. One night, find a silky slip to sleep in instead of an over sized tee. Obviously everyone has their own feelings about lingerie - some will be 100% and feel like they're vamping it up even in a man's flannel shirt and Hanes finest but find your "lingerie" - the occasional red lipstick, curling your hair when you don't have anywhere to go or painting your nails hot pink. The most important thing is that you're doing this for you. Nothing is more beautiful or sexy then that inner glow!!

Arrive in Style

Early on in the wedding planning process I knew that transportation had to be about more than getting from Point A to Point B. I love a good limo - I really do -but, I have been very anti-limo until recently when I reconciled with the fact that it was the most practical transpotation option for the Lilly Bridesmaids Luncheon. But I digress ... the main point of this post is to highlight some fun nuptial transportation options if you're tired of the limo.

Having lived on the water nearly my entire life, I developed a fantasy early on in the planning process (i.e. in high school - don't judge me) that Groom and I would be transported some how on an antique Chris Craft. See below.

So when the ring was on the finger, my lovely father made a call to our good friends and former next-door-neighbors who we believed had such a boat. He called me later only to say, "Grace honey, I called them and they have a different boat ... something called a Hinckley ... they'd love to do it but would this Hinckley be alright?" You check out the photo of this beautiful boat and tell me if it would be all right ... the answer, was yes. This boat is verrryyy similar to the kind that Martha Stewart owns.

So after our church service, we are crossing the street to the Marina (yes, the church is across from a marina - isn't it fun!) and then our dear neighbors are driving us, my sister and the photographer in this beautiful boat to our reception site (The Ritz Carlton) where we will get off at the dock that enters onto the lawn on which our dinner and dancing is taking place. Now, had the boat suddenly not become an option we would have taken a vintage Rolls Royce - something like this.

For our esteemed wedding party (all 20 plus ...) we are chauffering them from the church to the Ritz in trolley! We reasoned that squeezing 10 people in per limo (thus getting two limos) to drive literally .82 miles from the church to the Ritz Carlton would be a tad ridiculous ... so in comes SRQ Trolley. Those of you who read up on wedding trends I am sure have heard of the trolley tactic, but seriously it offers a fun and creative way to transport a large group of people. And heck, if it rains you better believe Mr. SG and I will be on that trolley with everyone and will be happy to arrive in style. So in 9 days (wowza) picture me and the Mr. lounging in the beautiful boat with the sun setting behind us enjoying our first few moments of wedded bliss. I challenge any bride out there to find creative ways to transport yourself and loved ones. And please, don't get a Hummer limo ... I won't love any of you less but those beasts just don't sit right with me!

Chicago was "All that Jazz" and more ...

My crazy dad called me up on Saturday to see if I wanted to come to Chicago with him for one night leaving that Monday (yesterday) and coming back Tuesday (today). He would be in a conference all afternoon Monday but we would be able to spend time together Monday night and Tuesday morning. Having been bitten by the travel bug at an early age, it would have been a violation of all things I hold dear to say 'no' to an opportunity such as this. I immediately booked a flight and yesterday morning at 5:45 AM I waved good-bye to Dallas and headed to the Windy City.

I had never been to Chicago but boy, did it live up to my expectations. I could not have paid for better weather. It was cool, crisp and not very windy ... Dad and I stayed at the Drake and thoroughly enjoyed its' historical elegance and prime location. I immediately headed to the cafe at Ralph Lauren or RL's it is also called, for a wonderful lunch with Dallas transplant, friend and blog reader CP, who is currently studying law at the University of Chicago.

I started with a delicious spinach salad, followed by toasted cheese (Gruyere) on Rye with a side of tomato soup and then finished it off by sharing a banana split. (Oh yes, and the glass of wine ...) The meal was perfectly American and a great introduction to Chicago. We sat in the library looking area surrounded by eye-candy art books that were mixing and mingling with tartan and crocodile accessories. There were monograms galore punctuated by the ever-so-necessary Ming vases and English hunting scenes. I was essentially eating in a heaven of sorts.

I spent the rest of the day shopping on Michigan Avenue which was absolutely lovely, though still a reminder of how wonderful our shopping is here in Dallas. Mostly I found joy looking up at the fantastic diversity of architecture that the city is so known for. After wandering the beautiful streets I headed back to the Drake to get ready for the evening.

Dad and I started off with cocktails at the Ritz and then went to dinner at Spiaggia - a to-die-for, contemporary Italian restaurant that is reportedly President Obama's favorite. (Pictured below) This restaurant is a true experience and a special treat. One of the highlights was a rare wine from Cinqueterre (one of our favorite Italian vacation spots) and then dessert was a chocolate filled crepe drizzled with olive oil and accompanied by olive oil gelato - unbelievable!

We ended our whirlwind trip with a visit to the John Hancock observatory to take in the views of Lake Michigan. All-in-all, this little jaunt was a special time for my dad and I to spend together before his little girl gets married in 11 (or 10 if your on Eastern Time as I am writing this) days ... yes, it freaks me out a little that it is flying by so fast!

Bottom line, I highly recommend considering Chicago for a long weekend - it seems like it could be wonderfully romantic or just a great family trip. There is a beautiful observatory, a great Zoo and Aquarium, the Field Museum is breathtaking (see picture below) and Lake Michigan is a sight to see!

In keeping with my corny title (Broadway enthusiasts will see the pun ...) I have to say that Chicago really "Razzle Dazzled"me ... and I cannot wait to return!

Lilly Bridesmaid Luncheon Attire

It is the Friday night before Halloween and I am sitting at home blogging while hubby-to-be (2 weeks from tomorrow .. omg ...) is walking Miss Scout and Miss Harper is keeping my lap company. This is how I know I am growing up ... I am not in a costume nor am I sipping non-descript but highly potent punch. Not that I don't enjoy those occasions, they are just more few an far between. Tonight was a success and fun in its own right! I finally decided on my dress for my Lilly themed Bridesmaids Luncheon .... The Memsey Dress (in Aqua) ...

I am loving these "originals" - even Mr. SG agreed as I tried it on that "it goes with the more classic vibe you seem to be aiming for ..." Yes, he actually said that. He is amazing.

We capped the shopping off by splitting our new favorite salad (turkey, green apples, dried cranberries and a lime vinaigrette) at Northpark's La Duni and of course, some happy hour Vino de Casa.

How am I celebrating Halloween? By having my final dress fitting of course! Accompanied by some dear friends, I will be trying on my wedding dress for the last time before it is shipped home in preparation for the Big Day! Lets hope all goes well ... PS - For any Dallas ladies wondering where my fabulous dress was found, it was none other than Stanley Korshak! The Bridal Salon has a wonderful selection and fabulous consultants. My consultant, Becky Tananbaum, has been extremely helpful and made the experience memorable and easy-going. I highly recommend her to any bride!

So wish me luck that the zippers zip and the buttons button!!

Happy Halloween - may you have either nights filled with costumes and candy or Lilly and turkey salad ... whatever floats your boat!

I'm a gleek!

My new obsession ... glee on Fox!! Normally it would come on Fox on Wednesday but tonight some baseball thingy is on instead (I kid ... I know its the World Series). Anyways, I found this show a little late but better late than never I always say!. For those of you who haven't found this fabulous show yet I encourage you to give it a go. And those of you who are skeptical, here are a few reasons to love it!

1) The Music

If you've never heard of it, "Glee Club" is typically a high school program that performs (dances and sings) at a competitive level. This particular version of Glee incorporates modern songs like (Usher's Confessions) with Broadway staples (think Cabaret) and song Classic Rock (Journey, yes please!). There is something for every taste - The Thong Song was even performed! My personal favorites were Carrie Underwood and Jordan Sparks. I love musicals, but I think even those of you who fall asleep during musicals like dear friend SVB (though she has gotten better) will love this show!If you don't believe me, check out the following reasons.

2) The Clothes

Not all of the clothes are good, there is some Aeropostal and such ... But there are some great prepsters i.e. Rachel Berry, the lead female vocalist. The only consistent thing that I love about Rachel's wardrobe is that she frequently wears socks with her penny loafers. Very classic - very prep. Emma Pilsbury is my favorite though. She looks like JCrew, Talbots (the good stuff) and Anthropologie had a baby. Emma wears broaches and cardigans like its her job. If I didn't already love teaching I'd go into the profession just to try and look like her! The only other noteworthy clothes that I can think of are the football uniforms ... its okay people, all of the actors playing high school jocks are actually older than me in real life so my drooling is legal ... see reason number three...

3) Finn Hudson

You may not know this about me but I rarely get crushes. In real life I have had maybe seven ... that's not a lot. Think about it ladies, that includes those days when we had as many crushes as we did Teddy Grahams. There are many "heart throbs" who I do not find too terribly appealing. I don't get the whole Orlando Bloom thing ... I just don't ... I mean I know he's technically attractive but that "spark" is missing for me. My celebrity crushes have tended to be directly related to the characters they portray. For example, I fell in love with Heath Ledger when he played a soldier from the American Revolution in The Patriot. I'm a sucker for uniforms ... I love Prince William in spite of his bald spot because he is a Prince. Titles are sexy - get on it gentlemen! And for some unknown reason I love Robert Pattinson because I have a thing for Vampires ... uh, just kidding. Actually I don't know why I like him - maybe its the brooding, I'm-obsessed-with-you vibe ... who knows ... Anyways, back to Finn - my newest crush. I am obsessed with a capital O ... Obsessed. His boyish looks (he's 27 in real life so relax), his football uniform, the fact that he is secure enough to be the lead singer of Glee Club AND the quarterback ... so many reasons. But see reason numero uno below .. ahh ... his face ... adorable and as far as I can tell from the episodes he is tall which is incredibly important to me as a member of the "Tall Girl Club"

So darlings, even though baseball is taking over tonight, next week tune into FOX at 9 PM Eastern 8 PM Central, I hope you will take my recommendation seriously! And in advance, you're welcome ...

Engagement Shoot

So I disappeared for a little while because this whole "Bride" thing can be a little time consuming. Mr. SG and I went home to good ole' Florida for a bit to attend a Lobster Bake Couples Shower that was thrown by the parents of my dear friend and MOH, SVB. It was positively smashing. Every detail was amazing - the lobster was delicious, the decor was adorable and the favor (homemade blueberry jam) was superb.

While at home, Mr. SG and I finally took some engagement shots with a photographer who is a friend of my mothers, Billy. We shot for over 5 hours at multiple locations around Sarasota. Below you'll see some of our favorite shots. We had an absolute blast. Time flew by and even Mr. SG (who I was worried about wilting a little bit during such a long shoot) thought that it felt like an hour. The bathing suit shot was taken at some retro looking cabanas on Siesta Key. The picnic varieties were taken on the grounds of the Phillipi Creek Mansion (it was verrryyy windy there!). The Vespa shots were taken on my mom's Vespa in our neighborhood. And the rest were taken around our house and on our dock.

This photographer is incredibly talented - none of these photographs have been photo shopped or airbrushed (though he'll do it if you want him to). He is a master at picking the rights spots, poses and light to maximize the potential for the best shots.

Follow this link to his blog if you'd like to find out more about his work.

http://encompasscreative.net/blog/

Otherwise ENJOY out photos and tune in this week because I am baaccckkkk from wedding world. Well, sort of .... 20 days until I become a Mrs !!!

Hair today, gone tomorrow ...

So I have been a bad blogger but for someone with a sizeable amount of time on my hands, I have been alarmingly busy with wedding stuff. Some days it seems like I go from one phone call to another - bouncing around modifications and requests and people who didn't RSVP! It really is amazing at how much time the little things take. I am very grateful to be able to put thought into this special day and to have the time to be at my best as a hostess.

Tonight on the agenda while Mr. SG is in class, is wine sampling with dear friend and bridesmaid, CLK later on at the Hamlin -Williams household, to make some decisions on the vino for the carving party next week. I am packing for our trip back to sunny Florida for our Lobster Bake themed couples shower! The parents of SVB, my MOH alongside sweet sister AEW, are hosting said fete at their lovely home and personally cooking lobster for 40 of our wedding party, family and friends! They are wonderfully generous and champion party throwers. I am thinking about wearing a Target dress that I have already taken it for a "test run" at the New Members reception for Slipper Club (a social & philanthropy club here in Dallas). It is comfortable, flattering and great for Fall! I am sooo excited about the shower - I will hopefully remember to post pics!

But before all that I have a haircut!! It has been too long and now it is too long (haha) and as a consequence is easily tangled. So I am going in for a trim. But this cut has got me thinking seriously about my post-wedding locks. Many ladies do a big chop after the nuptials. I don't necessarily want to do that, however my hair has been lacking a certain "je ne sais quois" lately. Really though I know what it is lacking and that is a good shape!! It is just blah! But Mr. SG loves it long (don't most men seem to feel this way??) and many of my friends gasp in horror when I suggest removing inches ... but we'll see. For now this type of style below pictured on two of my absolute LEAST favorite celebrities, is what I am thinking about ...

After November 14th, I think I am feeling more of the Lauren Conrad style - her color is somewhat similar to mine even though I am a little darker. Ah the things to think about!

On the Menu

Like a good AH, I have been musing with the menu for the week. I already know that one night we are going to a restaurant that my friend CLK and I tried last week and I having been craving ever since. It is called Bliss Cafe and for you Dallas dears, it is on Greenville Ave, very close to Nordstrom rack. Bliss focuses on Raw and organic food. Totally Gluten free. I had their version of a Margarita Pizza and I would rather eat theirs than the real thing!! The crust is made out of pumpkin seeds with basil and pistachio pesto topped by cashew cheese and of course, tomatoes. Sounds odd I am sure but it is delicious and nutrient packed. Because it is so full of nutrients you feel full very quickly and you stay full because your body recognizes that it has gotten what it needs!

Despite feeling full, we had to try their "brownies" made with dates and raw cocoa. They are rich, heavenly and healthy!! For those of you who know me, I am not one who actively seeks out healthy food. I hate whole wheat bread, whole wheat pasta etc .. my body literally rejects that stuff. But this?? This is amazing and convinced one southern gal that if I could eat at Bliss for every meal for the rest of my life (all raw food) I would be okay!!


This is not to say I don't like healthy food - I am just not the gal that orders brown rice. I but there are things that are healthy that I just happen to like. I have always been a huge veggie and fruit fan. (I generally don't like legumes however.) What I really like is to find something that is healthy but feels like its indulgent. One of the favorites in the Southern Grace household that falls into this category is bison! Here are some quick bison facts:



72% to 92% less fat (depending upon the cut of the meat.)
An average if 50% less cholesterol.
30% higher in protein and less calories.
No growth-inducing hormones or steroids.
No known human allergies.



Per 3 oz. serving, Bison has 47 less calories than chicken, 90 less than lean ground beef, 32 less than fish and turkey and it has the least cholesterol of all of them!! This delicious meat taste richer than any of these aforementioned meats. I would rather eat a bison burger any day!! Think of the possibilities - bison meatballs, bison meatloaf, bison meat sauce and bison chili!! If your palate is like mine then if you substitute bison for beef in anyone of these instances you will find a much richer and tastier end result. So one the weekly menu, we are going to try bison chili. Here is the recipe that I got off the Food Network. If all goes well, we might serve this up at our pumpkin carving party next week!!



Ingredients

4 cups diced onions
1 roasted poblano, seeded and diced
1/2 cup diced celery


2 cups diced bell peppers
1/2 cup minced garlic
2 1/2 pounds ground Bison
9 ounces dark chili powder
1 tablespoon cumin
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
1 (10-pound) can diced tomatoes
1 (5-pound) can kidney beans


1 (5-pound) can black beans
24 ounces tomato-vegetable juice



Directions

Saute onions, poblanos, celery, bell peppers, and garlic until translucent. Add meat and saute together. Mix together chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper and add to meat and vegetable mixture. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and black beans. Add tomato-vegetable juice. Let simmer for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.






I have made regular chili before of course and found a way to leave out the beans but I can't remember how I did it or what I added more of in place. Today I am going to leave you with a picture of beautiful Montana. Why you ask? Because one day I hope Mr. SG and I can make it to this beautiful state but also because lots of bison roam in Montana and I couldn't put up a picture of a precious bison. A nod to last nights "Bored to Death" on HBO - "In my heart I am a Vegan. In my mouth I lack discipline"

Stay Chic,

HSG

Mom for a day ...

Early morning tomorrow I leave for St. Louis - a suprise trip that I booked just last night. While an undergrad at SMU I competed on the Mock Trial team (like law school Moot Court but the undergrad version) - I have always considered law school and who knows, may eventually end up there! But in the mean time I have been helping out as a Coach to two of the three SMU teams. At the last minute I am jetting up to a competition at St. Louis University to coach them through the weekend. The other Coach is a friend I have spoken of, and blog follower, DBK who is leaving for St. Louis tonight. So last night we took his precious dog, Cheney, to dog-sit for the weekend. Today I am the proud stay-at-home-mom of two dogs and one cat. (Below is a picture of Cheney). Adding another dog to the dynamic is crazy!!!! Scout stays with DBK and Cheney occasionally when we go out of town so they already know each other but these girlies loooveee to rough-and-tumble around the house. Before noon, Cheney had already pooped in the house three times (because she is nervous, I'm sure, since she is well trained) and every time I put the leash on her to go outside she pees - so I have used out go-to carpet cleaner (Spot Shot) about 5 times. When the delivery man came (we have been getting daily wedding gift deliveries so he and I are becoming friends) the two dogs freaked out started running around like wild animals. I began to lose my mind at the constant rough housing and scampering and so I just instituted a mandatory nap time and put both the little angels in their kennels. Now as I type they are snoring away. So if I have learned something from the past few hours (yes, mere hours!!) it is that Mr. SG and I cannot get another dog until we have a house and a yard - condo living is a bit tough with two active pooches.

While we are on the topic of dogs, I have been toying with the idea of ordering booties for dear Scout now that winter and sad weather is on the way. She absolutely hates going outside when it is cold and wet. She'll do it - but she doesn't enjoy it. I found these boots (below) for a very reasonable $13 ... these things tend to be over priced but I think I would plunk down $13 for little Scout's comfort. These are from Handsnpaws.com. I am sure some of you dear readers are rolling your eyes at the thought of booties ... I know, I know ... but couldn't it be bad for her feet? Or are their little pads enough? Something to think about ... we still have some time until Dallas consistently stays below 55.

Stay Chic,

HSG

Monogrammed Madness

Today's post is monogrammed themed because all three things on my mind have to do with monogramming!!

1) At our Target, women's crew neck sweatshirts are on sale for $6. I scooped up a white one and am having it monogrammed in navy. Since it is starting to get cold, I figured I could add a little prep to my step by wearing a monogrammed sweatshirt when out walking scout on a chilly morning! But the most exciting part is that I am going to have it monogrammed with my new, post-marital initials!

2) Now that the wedding gifts have started to pour in, I ordered stationary with our new monogram. My stationary expert suggested that we do this and write thank yous as they come in but send them out the day after the wedding. I had been writing the notes as they came on my personal stationary but now we are going to switch to this tactic. The stationary came in today and I was so excited to the the very first thing with our new monogram and sadly they were the wrong size! As I opened the box and saw how positively microscopic they were, I said to Scout "What is this, a thank you note for ants?!" Making Zoolander references to the dog is a sign that I need to get a life ... Anyhow, I somehow ordered 2" x 3" cards which are tiny!! We'll still be able to use them as gift enclosures but now I have to order more in the correct size!!

3) I ordered my monogrammed decal to put on my pink and green drink tub for the Lilly Bridesmaids Luncheon. I am having a "Juice Bar" as a nod to the famous shifts dress' origins. So I am ordering two decals (one for each tub) to preppy-fy the tubs. Of course, I am doing it in my new monogram (for practical purposes so that I can use it again post nuptials).

Picture courtesy of JustStuffItGifts.com

P.S. If you are looking for a fun shower theme for your Southern Bride or Southern Mommy-to-Be then why not throw a monogram shower! Think of all the fun party supplies you could have, not to mention all of the fabulous fun gifts for the lucky Southern Gal!

Stay Chic,

HSG