sweat, tears, and sea

10 ways to be the BEST girly girl

2011-11-17T11:28:00.001-08:00

I love being the girly girl I am, I wouldn't change one minute of it. here are some of my favorite things:

slept on curls
pink and lace
split champagne
everything with glitter
macaroons in Paris
being smitten
lipgloss... always
pretending to know football
baking cupcakes
wearing heels everywhere

xoxo

r.i.p. Steve Jobs

2011-11-17T10:35:00.001-08:00

I know it's been awhile so I need to back up and start with Steve.

On October 5th (my mom's birthday) Mom and I were having a glass of wine to celebrate as we flipped through the iPhoto book I made her about our trip to Mexico. The bartender pointed out the Apple product and told us the bad news. We both started crying.

This man has been so influential in our lives. My mom always told me that she was on her first Mac in 1989, the year I was born. I remember being in middle school working on Quark on her Mac making colleges for my school binder, my first ipod, which seems giant compared to what we have now, and always feeling incompetent on a PC.

Apple has played such a huge role, I have always been an apple girl. Writing this to you on my MacBook pro. I just ordered my new iPhone 4s yesterday and I will support the product forever.

Steve Jobs was one of the greats and has changed our world forever. He will be truly missed.

xoxo

all things fall...

2011-09-22T16:49:00.000-07:00

Well today I have no excuse as to why I have not blogged. I am going to guess and say I have been pre occupied with ALL things fall. Day dreaming of apple cider, tall boots and short dresses, powdered sugar doughnuts, long sleeves, carving pumpkins, and cool air that we've been dying for all summer.

We had a cold front roll through Wilmington and it was fabulous, now only if it would stick around. The cool weather simply made me crave open windows, pumpkin spice lattes from Starbucks and walking to class.

Now planning a trip to Ohio in October to see my grandparents and celebrate my mothers birthday has totally put me in the mood. Planning to drink apple cider, go cheesing and everything that comes with the leaves turning and being up North!

Here are my Pinterest FALL picks to get you in the spirit! Happy September and enjoy the Fall!

apple cider pancakes

xoxo

summers end

2011-08-31T07:20:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy couple of weeks, traveling to Ohio, seeing the whole family including our new member Jordan our 16 month old rescued Golden Retriever. Then coming back to Wilmington and having to evacuate to Greensboro for Hurricane Irene. Needless to say blogging was laston my mind.

I did want to tell all of you about a project I have been working on for My Green Eyed Girl INC. a non- profit organization started by a fellow High Point University graduate Chris Thurley in honor of his girl friend Cassie Hill who passed away this past February due to an unexpected brain aneurism.

He asked me to create a logo for the company and I was MORE than happy to do this for him. With the logo came t shirts and koozies that will be sold this Saturday September 3rd at a fundraiser in High Point, NC at The Frat House (a local bar). I really encourage everyone to take a look at the merchandise. Not only did I design it, it is for a great cause and a sweet girl. If you cannot make it to the fundraiser, T-shirts and koozies are available to order online!

Hope the last few days of summer are being good to you. I am trying to soak up as much sun as possible while looking forward to fall!

xoxo

happy birthday hallelu

2011-08-19T11:17:00.000-07:00

It's Hallelu's 6th Birthday!!!

So I of course had to celebrate ;)

xoxo

surrender

2011-08-18T19:55:00.000-07:00

heard this today from my girlfriend at work, titled Surrender by: Anonymous

On this Day:

Mend a quarrel

Search out a forgotten friend

Dismiss suspicion & replace it with trust

Write a love letter

Share some treasures

Give a soft answer

Encourage youth

Manifest your loyalty in a word or deed

Keep a promise

Find the time

Forgo a grudge

Forgive an enemy

Listen

Apologize if you were wrong

Try to understand

Flout envy

Examine your demands on others

Think first of someone else

Appreciate, be kind, be gentle

Laugh a little more

Deserve confidence

Take up arms against malice

Decry complacent

Express your gratitude

Worship your God

Gladden the heart of a child

Take pleasure in the beauty & wonder of the world

Speak your love

Speak it again

Speak it still again

Speak it still once again.

xoxo

all about Catherine

2011-08-17T06:02:00.000-07:00

After hearing the story of Hallelu and the passions of Catherine Yearwood, I am completely smitten with her style and what inspires her. Glitter Guide just did a peek inside her seaside home.

Her house is GORGEOUS. She goes on to describe her girly, fashionable style mixed with her husbands surfer, modern style. Together they make a perfect duo!

Inspiration from the ocean and thrifting with her husband is reflected in her home. But their style changes daily just as her outfits do! Check out Glitter Guides' article for all the info! Just wanted to share this amazing space with all of you!

xoxo

date night

2011-08-12T09:33:00.000-07:00

My boyfriend and I went out last night to this quaint little wine bar in downtown Wilmington, Fortunate Glass. I have to tell y'all about the amazing food and ambiance.

The bar is small and cozy, with only a few tables. We sat in a secluded wooden booth that is set into the wall, once you sit down you feel like the only two people in there. After reading the EXTENSIVE wine list, we chose a nice pinot gris with hints of melon and honey, it was delicious.

We ordered tapas that came throughout the meal. We started with a traditional Italian appetizer of procuitto and melon, very light and refreshing. We then had endive stuffed with goat cheese, shaved almonds and chunks of mango. SO good!! We were then served brie and spicy salami with cranberries, pears, and crackers. On to the next bottle and dessert!

The dessert trio we ordered was OUT of this world! We had a lemon cheese cake with shaved almonds, a chocolate mousse soufflé, and the best of all goat cheese mousse. it was indescribable. Mixed with the raspberry sauce that surrounded the plate, one of the most decadent things I have ever tasted. It had the tang of goat cheese with a light airy texture. I could eat it every day.

It was a perfect night with amazing food and great company!

xoxo

inspired

2011-08-10T08:45:00.000-07:00

I have been having trouble finding that "big girl job" that is supposed to be in the card for me after graduation. I know the economy is bad but not only do I need a job, I am really dying for one in my field, or at least something that I love doing! I want to do what I love and love what I do. And after 4 years of making me better at what I am already good at, i think I have that right.

Overall it has always been my dream to be a wedding planner, but I also have such a huge passion for designing. I want to be able to say, if I had all the money in the world I would be doing the same thing I am doing now. Unfortunately I cannot do that yet, but I have hope it will come to me. If not I'm going to make it for myself.

My favorite boutique Hallelu just posted the story of the shop, Owned by Catherine Yearwood and her husband, they share their story here. It is such an inspiration to me that Catherine had a dream and made it happen. I am going to the same for my self. If no one wants to give me a chance in the professional world, that's okay, I will make that break for my self.

It's just going to take some hard work, research, and Money of course. But I will do it, mark my words. And I can't wait to do what I love!

xoxo

nothing but neon

2011-08-09T10:25:00.000-07:00

I've been a little NEON obsessed lately! I don't know what it is but there is something about a pop of neon green against a dark grey or that neon coral against tan skin. I just love the way it looks! I will be incorporating it into my life, whether it's through some new design, nail polish or neon feathers in my hair, I have to do it some how!

Thank you Pinterest for the lovely photos and inspiration!

2011-08-09T06:55:00.001-07:00

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

a place of yes

2011-07-29T07:11:00.000-07:00

Just recently finished "A Place of Yes" by Bethenny Frankel. I know it took me forever, but it was worth it! It was such a life changing book.

Her insight on relationships, food and business is so inspiring. I read it every night before I went to bed and would wake up the next day ready to conquer the world.

She has done so much in her life and made such an amazing name and brand for herself. Part of me is sad it's over, but I passed the book a long to a friend and picked up "Naturally Thin" by Bethenny. So I am ready to hear more from this amazing woman! And become naturally thin I suppose :)

READ THIS BOOK. that's all I have to say!

xoxo

happy thoughts

2011-07-29T06:57:00.001-07:00

Peter Pan, Love this idea, and fits perfectly with my "Happy Thoughts"

nothing makes you happy like a little Disney in your life, Mickey Mouse Oreo cookies

a needed hug

every girls dream

my love for Pinterest continues on a daily basis. Not quite sure if it has past the point of obsession, but we are definitely creeping up closely on it. But I'm having an off morning so I pulled some of my favorite things from my Pinterest boards to share with you. Just some feel good, happy thoughts!

xoxo

ombre

2011-07-18T07:48:00.000-07:00

I have been obsessing over this hair style for quite some time, I think it's very beachy looking and I love it.... so, I DID IT!

xoxo

daydreaming: iPhone

2011-07-18T07:23:00.000-07:00

for the smoker

for the graphic designer (me!)

for the artists!

found some adorable phone covers via, indie covers. These are so fun, and have tons of personality, now all I need to do is get the phone...

xoxo

my 15 minutes?

2011-07-15T08:46:00.000-07:00

I have told you before about Bamboo Apparel that I did designs for. Well Seth Gold did an interview on TV and my designs made it on as well. I think it's pretty cool! Check it out!

Watch me

star struck

2011-07-11T09:17:00.000-07:00

Robert Buckley (he wasn't there), Sophia Bush, Shantel VanSaten, Austin Nichols

One Tree Hill has been one of my favorite shows since I can remember. Low and behold they film in Wilmington, NC (where I live) and always have. In the past I have seen them filming in certain spots, ran into a few cast members at the gym and around town, but that was nothing compared to Friday night.

I was working at Deluxe and we had a reservation under Austin Nichols (Julian Baker) in the book with a note reading "Sophia's Birthday" Those are two of the star cast members of OTH (Sophia being Sophia Bush (Brooke Davis)) As soon as they arrived they brought along pretty much the whole cast with them including, Tyler Hilton (Chris Keller) , Paul Johansson (Dan Scott), Lee Norris (Mouth McFadden), Shantel VanSaten (Quinn James), Jana Kramer (Alex Dupre), Daphne Zuniga (Victoria Davis), as well as writer and producer Mark Schwhan and Joe Davola.

Needless to say I was a little starstruck. It was so exciting to be in their presence as "real" people. The girls of course looked gorgeous and the guys were so sweet! At the moment the restaurant is displaying an art show of very expensive, hand painted, guitars and surfboards. The best part was when the boys, including singer/guitar player Tyler Hilton pulled the $13,000 guitars off the wall and started playing and performing for the whole restaurant and everyone was singing along. It was AMAZING! It didn't even phase me that I was running around like crazy, or how much money I was making, nothing mattered.

All in all it was one of the greatest work nights ever!! and I can't believe I was in suck close quarters with people I have admired for so long. Season 9 started filming TODAY, so I need to do some major episode catch up and keep an eye out for the stars :)

xoxo

ps. trust me I put on a big smile in front of the producers hoping they feel the need to cast me :)

red white and blue

2011-07-06T16:17:00.000-07:00

What a perfect july fourth***

xoxo

4th of july fun!

2011-06-30T16:18:00.000-07:00

I was felling very crafty these past couple of days and because a couple of my best friends, Kim and Ashleigh are coming into town I wanted to do a few special things for them.

I made welcome kits every girl needs for a vacation at the beach. This shovel and pale set are filled with baby oil, aloe vera, our favorite lip gloss and of course 3 mini beach malibu's to start the weekend off right. And for good listening I made a CD of 4th of july songs. I filled the pales with sand from Carolina Beach and wrote their names, date and drew some fire works. It was a blast for me and a nice little treat when they get there.

Of course the malibu will need to be soaked up with something so I made these cupcakes. Using funfetti cake batter (representing fireworks), cream cheese frosting, and as you see blueberries, strawberries, and coconut. I can't wait to taste, I felt like such a housewife this afternoon!

4th of July play list:

Sunset in July -311

American Baby -Dave Matthews Band

Courtesy of the Red White and Blue - Toby Keith

American Honey -Lady Antebellum

I Want To Go -Britney Spears

Firework -Katy Perry

It's America -Rodney Atkins

Firework -Drake

On The Floor -Jennifer Lopez

Summer Girl -Leighten Meister

Beemer, Benz or Bentley -Lloyd Banks

Homebrew -311

Boom Boom -Britney Spears

It's Africa -Shakira

All Of The Lights -Kayne West featuring Rihanna

Red Red Wine -UB40

**a couple are in there just for fun bust most of them have a line or something relating to this great holiday so I hope you enjoy!

xoxo

skinny girl

2011-06-28T10:11:00.000-07:00

I'm sure I have told y'all about my obsession with Bethenny Frankel before and I am going to continue to tell you today...

First of all I am not happy because as we speak she is in Columbus, Ohio (my hometown) and I am NOT THERE. To top it all off, she just introduced her newest cocktail, Skinny Girl White Sangria, to follow the famous (and delicious) Skinny Girl Margarita.

I have recently just be able to get my hands on the margarita, lord only knows how long it will take me to get the sangria, but I know it will be worth the wait. The margarita is awesome and I'm sure the sangria will be even better.

I am still reading A Place Of Yes, Bethenny's newest book. It is harder to finish when I am not lounging around in Mexico and I actually have to work. I highly recommend it. What I ahve read so far has effected my life in a positive way. Every time I read a little bit, I am so motivated to do something great and be successful in everything I do. She has also given me some amazing advice to listen to my body and to my heart.

So, everyone, go buy a bottle of Skinny Girl and enjoy it while reading A Place Of Yes, this upcoming holiday weekend.

xoxo

cute cupcakes

2011-06-27T08:18:00.001-07:00

LOVE THIS!

I will be making these for my self the DAY I get my iPhone

a not so skinny girl margarita

precious

hydrangea cupcakes, perfect for a wedding

xoxo

BBQ

2011-06-27T07:52:00.001-07:00

me shopping away, top Hallelu, of course

the watermelon napkins matched my shirt, I fit in very well :)

This weekend was the Hallelu BBQ and Reborn Trunk show! It was an evening filled with lemonade, treats, and gorgeous clothes. I of course had to get a little something to show my support and got a gorgeous coral, eyelet dress. Reborn is an amazing jewelry company. My favorite piece is a necklace I own that had "910" engraved in it ( Wilmington, NC area code). I also bought the same necklace for my girls as a graduation gift. Theirs read "NC" to represent the state where we graduated and met!

What a perfect summertime event!

xoxo

sweet tooth

2011-06-22T08:27:00.000-07:00

marie antoinette dessert table

baked alaska cake

golden girl scout cookie cake

bun in the oven cake

thanks to Apartment #34 I found this amazing bakery in California. Their specialty cakes are spectacular, wedding cakes are elegant and their cupcakes are so fun! I'm obsessed with them all, but here are some of my favorites. (can you tell I'm starving this morning?) also hats off to the gorgeous web design of Sweet & Saucy shop.

xoxo

i was born with glitter in my veins

2011-06-21T10:05:00.000-07:00

...and yes that's a fact. Last week The Glitter Guide launched their blog. They have been all the rave and added to my daily reads. I have glitter on my nails, shoes, purse, and anywhere else that is appropriate on a daily basis. Here is a perfect party dress and one of the most gorgeous photographs I have seen in a while. Thanks GG

xoxo

have your cake and eat it too

2011-06-21T09:59:00.000-07:00

Who says you can only have one wedding cake? I think having multiples or cupcakes or even pies is a fabulous idea. At least a bride and groom cake. I know I'll want too many flavors and too many looks to only have one. And there's nothing like indulging on the leftovers post wedding dress and honeymoon. Thank you Snippet and Ink and Style Me Pretty for the photos.

xoxo

kick up your feet

2011-06-21T09:44:00.000-07:00

Found both of these shots on Style Me Pretty. I just love the idea of putting something graphic or fun on the bottom of your shoe. So creative and leaves a little mystery. My mom has a ring with a "hidden diamond" this isn't as expensive but so much fun. *and yes that bride is wearing cowboy boots, adorable!

xoxo

give back

2011-06-15T07:06:00.000-07:00

photographs from Style Me Pretty

I was completely unaware of what Toms really was. Then I began to see the shoes on Brides!! Now with a little research not only do I think they are awesome, I want a pair!

What an amazing concept, similar to that of a T-shirt company I designed for Bamboo Apparel, created by Seth Gold a student at High Point University. It is all about giving these days, so help out a good cause wear great shoes and great design ;)

xoxo

traveling love

2011-06-10T08:38:00.001-07:00

A long distance relationship can be difficult, but the couple featured on Style Me Pretty made it work. read their story here, but my favorite part was their traveling themed wedding. Airplane confetti, tables named after cities they each have been to, an announcement showing their travels, and of course for a couple who travel, it was only appropriate to have a destination wedding in Bali. Absolutely gorgeous.

safe travels ;)

xoxo

wrap it up

2011-06-10T08:33:00.001-07:00

a little early for christmas, I know but this wrapping paper is a must have. It spells out every POSSIBLE holiday. The most versatile wrapping paper I have ever seen. Keep it interesting with different color markers to circle your holiday and add a complimentary bow.

Even makes wrapping a present a game and a challenge, I love this idea!

xoxo

pink and orange

2011-06-10T08:21:00.001-07:00

My research for Luna Pops continues, and I am struck by this brilliant color combination. It has always been one of my favorites, but I am having a new found love for it in this 90 degree weather at the beach. Whether it is an interior or a popsicle, it's so summery and refreshing! Love it!

xoxo

happy lady

2011-06-07T10:44:00.000-07:00

Well, I started my internship yesterday and I am loving it!

Today I have been doing a crazy amount of research and sketching for a logo and package design for a local company called Luna Pops. They are popsicles that have crazy flavors similar to Jeni's ice cream (this project is so up my alley, im thrilled).

As I have been searching though the internet today, I found tons of stuff to share with you...

some of my favorites are wise words from formally Happy Lady Eats, now known as OhJoy!

thought they were some wise words!

xoxo

belated... royal wedding

2011-06-05T18:55:00.001-07:00

The Royal Wedding was absolutely amazing to watch and hear about, unfortunately it happened when I was super busy and didn't really get to blog about it. I'm not going to take you all the way back to that big day but I have to share this comparison photograph with y'all.

I think this is too funny, and I wonder if it were planned.

Also because the Death of Bin Laden and the Royal wedding happening with in days of each other I heard a great quote, "the girl married her prince, the bad guy is dead, it's a real Disney weekend here on Earth" I loved this!

xoxo

sweet summertime

2011-06-02T14:13:00.000-07:00

As I bite into my first bright red cherry of the season, and sip my SkinnyGirl Margarita, I now know it is officially summertime. I am back from Mexico and in full swing of summer, work at Deluxe is going well, and today I was lucky enough to get the internship at Morvil Advertising + Design Group. I am thrilled. I have been on top of my game for the past couple of days, completely back to myself and loving life. (thank you to the people who are in my life but do not take it from me).

I am loving my life, and reading "A Place of Yes" everyday is helping me come from a place of yet, and get what I want out of life! Everyone needs to be reading this book!

As for Mexico I told you all I would give you the verdict of cruise vs. all inclusive, that will be another post, but I promise it's coming.

first and foremost check out Design*Sponge, they updated their website and it looks awesome, inspiring me to crack down and get my website up and running.

secondly I keep a folder of beautiful things I want to blog about and I am going to share those things with you...

I of course have to start with some beautiful wedding photos, and you will have to forgive me I pulled these forever ago and I cannot remember where I got them, if you know, fill me in!

This next outfit is how I dream of looking at my big girl job (which is basically starting next week) thank you Apartment #34 for wanting to put all my hard earned money to fun work outfits!

and last but not least, a little soul food. Although it looks like a hot mess up close, from afar, it is gorgeous, and to pretty to eat :) These colorful little pieces of cake would be awesome at a wedding or a Summer cookout! thank you OnceWed and House of Origin!

That is all for now, back to enjoying my margarita and the sweet (but smoldering) sunshine.

xoxo

May 27th don't mind me

2011-05-31T12:46:00.001-07:00

Up early on our last day to catch as many rays of sun as possible. Mom did her spinning class as I laid by the pool of course. A couple of champagne and pineapples later, Eduardo convinced me once again to join them in one last water aerobics at the pool. At 1130 I headed to the main pool to catch up with some of the friends I made and wait for aerobics to start. Had a great work out from 12 to one, then grabbed lunch with mom! After trying some sort of liquid that was NOT chocolate I had to grad another drink and go back to the pool.

I cut up in the pool for a little while longer then headed to the spa for a massage and a manicure that lasted less than 24 hours, but was adorable at the time! At five we headed to the spider monkey tour and saw sow amazing monkeys swinging from the tress. Back to the room to get ready for our last dinner together. As we try to order chardonnay to the room we were informed the resort was currently out of sock… Pretty sure we drank them out of chard. We went back tot he Asian restaurant for one of the funniest dinners yet. The servers carried around huge trays with white linens hanging off of them. Obliviously out server was walking to the table behind us with a try in hand. As he walked by the white linen hanging down swiped over Lisa's head, then Lauren's, at this point we were all giggling because he ad no idea, By the time he got to me the tray just levitated over top my head for about 5 solid minutes with the table cloth in my face. We were CRACKING up to tears. It was just hilarious, don't mind us just sitting here dining. Good thing we had a sense of humor, but once our server realized what was going on, we rarely saw him and he didn't pick up a tray for the rest of the night.

After a couple of mayan coffees we were off to bed. Traveling the entire next day. Getting to the airport to sit in Bubba Gumps and order margaritas and coronas to end the trip just right.

I had such an amazing time and although I was eager to get home, I am ready to go back and miss spending everyday with mom in the sun :(

adios

xoxo

May 26th Mississippi OR Kentucky/ yellow girl

2011-05-31T12:45:00.002-07:00

Woke up and caught the bus to Playacar Resort . We grabbed breakfast in the beautiful white, and beige surroundings with an amazing selection! I had made to order egg white omelet and a croissant with peanut butter, it was to die for as usual. We then headed out into the streets of Mexico, being badgered of course from each vendor, but we quickly learned to ignore the,. The highlight was when some man asked us where we were from and we responded, “United States” and he replied, “Mississippi or Kentucky” I thought that was hilarious, those were our only options.

I found an awesome bracelet for a $1 and a pair of peacock feather earrings I love. We ran into a baby jaguar and Lion that we weren’t aloud to take pictures of but they were absolutely precious, I wanted to take them home. They were so adorable, tripping over their oversized paws, just too cute.

We then went to Senor Frogs, which is always a good time. Got a couple of drinks and free shots. Then headed to the VIP beach at Playacar, ordered drinks and read Bethenny in the sun. We headed in around 3 to make our spa appointments at four,

Today I had a chocolate wrap and I still need my chocolate fix afterwards. I got a scrub, then covered head to toe in pure chocolate, then lotion from head to toe in cocoa butter, it was amazing but left my mouth watering.

Dinner tonight was at the steakhouse at Adventura Cove. It was really good, although they forgot out appetizer, my Filet was awesome and the carrot cake was worth the wait. At the end he made us Mayan Coffee, which is coffee made with Kailua and Sambuca and set on fire so it is quite a show, they add ice cream and it is amazing!.

We came home after much girl talk and ordered off the ‘pillow menu’ chamomile, goose feather and orthopedic pillows arrived at out room within minutes along with a relaxing aromatherapy.

Great service! I cannot believe this amazing trip is almost over

xoxo

May 25th VIP

2011-05-31T12:45:00.001-07:00

Typical day here in Mexico! Breakfast then to the pool. Through the anxiety I swam with the fish in the ocean! I did some water aerobics with Lisa and studied for work. Went in at around 4 for my spa treatment. Today I had a wrap that helped with sunburns. It was some kind of crazy. I was covered head to toe in some Aloe Vera/ Bio freeze mixture, it went from cold to FREEZING and I was counting the minutes till I could was it off. But in the end it felt really good on my skin and the massage at the end is always nice,

After that we went to a VIP members cocktail party with champagne and amazing appetizers, including this bread filled with cream cheese; which I am addicted to. We hung out there for about an our and made our way back to the Mexican restaurant for the second time, and I made my own quesadilla again, this time with goat cheese and it was amazing!

The show tonight was the fire show and it was amazing. Just a bunch of sexy men throwing fire around! Made for great entertainment. But the amazement went to the stars tonight. They were not only huge, they went all the way to the horizon line and there we millions of them, I could see every constellation I know!

Back to the room, reading all my old messages on FB because they exist now, so I need to get off the computer and into bed, early day tomorrow. Off to Punta Cana to shop~!!

Hasta Luego!

xoxo

May 24th sharing lip gloss with dolphins

2011-05-31T12:44:00.000-07:00

Woke up this morning for another amazing breakfast, but all that was on my mind was our excursion for the day. At 10:30 we arrived to swim with the dolphins. It was absolutely amazing. Although my anxiety took over my boy for a short period of time, it was relieved from the first stroke of the dolphin. They were so sweet, reminded me of my golden puppy, Cody. Everyone got a kiss on the cheek, on the lips, a handshake and a ride on his belly.

Zeus was the Dolphin who I rode and he was a sweet as can be so gentle and treated me like a lady. But the best part was when we were petting him, he was so relaxed he pooped on the girl in front of me. We all backed up freaking out and she had no idea what was going on, it was a riot.

We of course got many photographs and went back to the resort and lay out in the VIP area of the pool. My skin is hating me more and more each day we are here, but I will get tan I am determined.

Got a little more dressed up for dinner tonight to head to Adventure Cove the resort right next door and have classic Mexican food. Oh My Gosh, best food and service yet. We had Guacamole made it front of us with tequila and fire involved. Amazing apps and dinner, along with an adorable server and service that was on point. After dinner we went to the magic show. Although I wasn’t aloud in the little kid chair that matched my dress I watched just as Intensely and obsessed over the fact I did not get to hold the bunny that came out of the hat. Lauren got to get on stage though, posing for every shot, she did great and made something happen with a duck, I don’t know I was busy taking pictures.

Great day all in all, amazing talk back home I cant wait till this weekend.

Adios

xoxo

May 23rd happy congratulations

2011-05-31T12:43:00.000-07:00

Woke up and had the best breakfast, made to order omelets, croissants and of course, mimosas, We were finally joined by Lisa and Lauren which made it that much better. We claimed our seats by the pool early, and to be honest with you that is about all we did all day was lay by the pool, except I did water aerobics in the pool with the ladies, which actually was a great workout.

I continually read Bethenny, (which I am completely fascinated with) and drank mojitos like it wad my job. At 11am we joined the cute, young Mexicans for water aerobics in the middle of the pool, which actually worked me out, and was a blast! We then learned how to make homemade sangria; which is a very valuable lesson! ( FYI the next Skinny Girl cocktail coming out this summer is Skinny Girls White Sangria and I cannot wait). After that more time of soaking up the sun and of course the ritual of guac and chips for lunch.

Spa time at 4pm once again and today it was a sports massage, working out the aches and pains of my deep tissue and stretching all my muscles from all the working out Ive been doing, or lack there of.

Afterword a little room service and a phone call home did the trick. Mom and I were getting ready for dinner to “Summer Girl” and a glass of decent chardonnay.

Lauren, Lisa, Mom and I all headed down to dinner and enjoyed Caesar salads made at the table and amazing mushroom ravioli. We had a priceless trip to the gift shop afterward, then headed to bed as usual.

We had another cake reading “Happy Congratulations” and 2 chocolate covered strawberries, We got 2 long stemmed white roses, and so did Lisa, but that darn 2534 got a towel worry doll and we are not happy.

Off to bed

xoxo

coochi coochi auroa auroa!!!

2011-05-22T19:53:00.000-07:00

Sunday Fun day! Started out with 10:30am room service so we got our full 12 hour night sleep! After a ham and cheese omelet and croissant, we headed down to the pool. The chairs are awesome because they sit in about 6in of water so if i put a foot on the ground it is in water and cools me off. Today we sat right next to the swim up bar and started with mimosas right when we got there.

I laid in the sun all day crisping up real nicely! I started A Place Of Yes, Finally and 25 pages in, I can already tell you it's a life changer.

In the mean time Mom and I are having the best heart to hearts talking about us, the people in our lives, her and Jeff, her and my dad, I am learning so much about my mom it;s making me learn so much about my self at the same time.

So at around 3pm there is a game for everyone in the pool (all that was required was to have a drink in your hand). Everyone gathered in the center of the pool in front of the DJ. The DJ would play about 2 seconds of a song and we had to guess what show or movie it was from. Mom went straight for the game, thinking she had it in the bag. After the first couple of songs I figured I would help her out. To guess an answer you had to say the password which was, COOCHI COOCHI AUROA AUROA (which made up of me bouncing out of the water yelling coochi coochi, waving my hands hoping the would call on me). Low and be hold I got random songs from, Twilight, Pearl Harbor, and Pirates Of The Caribbean. Mom got Ghost, plus I found a chip that we were supposed to earn floating in the pool... We averaged out to about 14 chips, but got beat by 3 :( I was bummed, but I loved he game, got my heart rate up and I felt so smart knowing a movie so quick!

Our Friends Lauren and Lisa finally arrived and we ran into them on our way to the spa and caught up with them a little. Mom and I both got 80 minute massages this afternoon. It was amazing, I spent all 80 minutes daydreaming, literally, I may have slipped into a real dream, until the woman started beating me up. My shoulders feel like I had a huge work out at the gym and I know I will have bruises in the morning. This tiny little Mexican woman was putting her entire body weight from her elbow into my back. I'm sure it will feel good in the long run. But over all the massage was awesome and so relaxing.

After word we had wine and apps sent to the room and mom and I got ready. We ate at the Asian restaurant tonight. Got some great sushi, fried cheese and bananas as an appetizer, a lovely seafood curry (lol) and lots more fried items for dessert :) which of course is good, anything fried is. There was supposed to be some Michael Jackson show this evening, but mom and I can't seem to stop talking to each other, it's like I haven't seem her in years, so we missed it. And since they pour wine like it is water around here, we are exhausted and off to bed.

adios

xoxo

holy guacamole

2011-05-21T19:18:00.000-07:00

so, randomly enough, I am in Mexico for the week. A belated 21st / graduation celebratory trip with mom..just us girls :)

After a stressful, hectic, we almost didn't make it airport experience, we arrived into Cancun early at about 9:30am today. One corona down and we hopped a bus to listened to an American woman attempt to fluently speak Spanish to the taxi driver for 2 hours on our way to Aventura Spa Palace. We finally arrived greeted with moist towels, cocktails and bell boys. Learning that we were considered VIP (thank you Lisa) we got the grand tour of the spa, many pools, and restaurants.

The pools seemed mediocre to our room. We are not on a cruise ship that is for sure. The bed room is gorgeous, looking out over the pool and the ocean, our deck has its own personal hammock. The all tile bedrooms focal point in the giant jacuzzi for two overlooking the water, very romantic... of course there are beds and a nice shower but it doesn't compare to the 4 bottles of liquor we have on tap and the endless mixers and wine we could dream of (for the most part)

After lunch, first, second and third stop... pool bar. Mom and I enjoyed mojitos, and Malibu and pineapple all afternoon talking about girly stuff that must be talked about. Not to mention the amazing, authentic guacamole we snacked on (influencing the title of this post lol). Followed by a mani/pedi then off to an Italian dinner, outside watching the sun go down.

Best thing there was the bread and olive oil because the bread was filled with ricotta cheese. Really?? Best thing ever, cannot believe I have never had that before. also had gnocchi, and tirimisu of course.

I am having a lot of trouble not comparing this to every cruise I have been on. I already have my criticisms but I'm going to give this place a little longer than one day and I'll give you the verdict when it is all said and done. We are off to bed early this evening, up since 5am and drinking all day does not add up to a late night. Cannot wait for the sunshine tomorrow :)

adios
**pictures will come later**
xoxo

more fake food

2011-05-15T18:44:00.000-07:00

thank you Margaret for showing me this, made from shoe laces, wax linen, cotton, etc.... these are quite cute!

xoxo

coral and blue

2011-05-15T18:32:00.001-07:00

found these beautiful wedding shots today on Style Me Pretty. I am obsessing with this color combinations and I love the shoes to show it off. The ring is stunning! What a perfect way to have a Florida wedding!

p.s. this may have become my dream ring :)

xoxo

after graduation

2011-05-15T18:26:00.000-07:00

well it's official! I am a college graduate from High Point University! I graduated Cum Laude with my Bachelors of Arts in Graphic Design. After a very eventful Graduation weekend with ALL of my family and friends I am finally settled in my new apartment in Wilmington, North Carolina!

I have started my new job and I am having no trouble going to the beach everyday. I am headed to Mexico with mom for a week next weekend but I will try to keep up the blogging. I am on my new Mac Book pro and I can't keep myself off of it, so it shouldn't be an issue.

see you shortly

xoxo

be careful what you wish for/ kisses

2011-04-28T09:10:00.000-07:00

So much has been going on, and I'm loving every minute. The only thing is, it's happening all at once.

First I won the Most outstanding senior in the Graphic Design program at school, I am so honored.

Then I had the BEST 22nd birthday ever. My best friends came in from all around to come to the beach with me and celebrate. The weekend was perfect, I saw some very important people, and met great new people as well.

I got a job at Deluxe, in down town Wilmington, which is absolutely perfect, I started Easter weekend and I love the people I work with!

Then I found my self an apartment and I am moving May 9th.

On top of all that, my last day of college classes were yesterday, and I am Graduating a week from Saturday. So, everything is going so well, and I am so excited to be starting a new chapter in my life.

In the mean time, I have been busy finishing up projects and tying some loose ends in my life, Here is my most recent project. I had to create my own alphabet. Hope you like it. I will be around more once I am settled in at the beach :)

xoxo

let them eat cake

2011-04-11T07:52:00.001-07:00

just some gorgeous wedding cakes from Oh Joy. Love the pearl blueberry one, so creative!

xoxo

food fight

2011-04-11T06:55:00.000-07:00

Searching for some good coffee/healthy food photography I stumbled upon Rachel Bee Porter through Oh Joy, and I am in love with her "The Joy of Cooking" pieces. They are so fun and beautiful. There is just something about making a beautiful mess!

Happy Monday!

xoxo

PERFECT

2011-04-07T08:23:00.001-07:00

Thank you Design*Sponge, I love this idea for a desk and I am totally doing it! chalkboard paint on an old desk!! I LOVE IT! my search for an antique desk starts now :)

p.s. I have the pantone mug in blue!

xoxo

its all about the desk...

2011-04-04T07:28:00.000-07:00

I love my apartment so much but I cannot stand that I don't have a desk to sit an work at. My couch and bed just doesn't cut it. Being that I am moving in May (to where is undecided) I really want a desk in my new place. I found a couple prospects at Pottery Barn and IKEA. I need leg room, storage, workspace and beauty. Shouldn't be too hard to find, which one do y'all like best?

kind of expensive from Pottery Barn, but I may just HAVE TO HAVE this one (hutch and chair included!)

obsessing over this one, very beachy and my style! This one is obviously Pottery Barn

awesome, but I need to see out a window or something, I'll feel like I'm in time out if I'm staring into the corner

Perfect for workspace, but I need some storage!

xoxo

a new meaning to drawing in the sand

2011-03-30T08:22:00.000-07:00

Found artist Jim Denevan on Joy Thigpen today and I had to post it. What a Beautiful art form!!

xoxo

my dream beach bag

2011-03-27T09:09:00.000-07:00

All the things you need this summer to take to the beach! Good reading, adorable coin purse and of course a designer bag to tote it around in!Hawaiian Tropic shimmer 20 SPF lotion, a perfect summer glow and protection

A Place of Yes by Bethenny Frankel, I bought it today, it is supposed to be life changing and hilarious

Kate Spade wallet, to keep a few bucks around when you have to have that mojito in the heat

Coach sandals, love the ankle strap so they don't go anywhere. And these are the type of sandals that can be dressed up or down, the best kind!

Kate Spade Pineapple coin purse, I don't carry any 'jingle' but this is too cute not to have

Lacoste Stripped hat, When the summer sun starts beating too hard, cover your face in style

and of course a cute, straw, coach bag!

xoxo

carnival couple

2011-03-25T11:28:00.000-07:00

Love these engagement photos done by Desi Baytan Photography and shared by Style Me Pretty. I love the formal clothes in the middle of a carnival, the bright colors of the lollipops and rides make it fun and light hearted. What a perfect day to propose :)

xoxo

RIP ELIZABETH TAYLOR

2011-03-25T11:20:00.000-07:00

We lost an Icon on March 23rd and I wanted to share some great posts from great bloggers, Mrs. Lilan, Looks Good To Me, and The Sketch Book, Thanks ladies!

xoxo

trash to treasure

2011-03-25T05:27:00.001-07:00

I collect jewelry, and to me it is an art form. I was getting frustrated that my jewelry box was looking a hot mess, and I wanted to display my beautiful collection of Earrings.

So my mom found me a $10 frame from an antique shop that happened to match my room perfectly, I went to Home Depot bought $5 screen, flirted with the guy who was helping me and got him to staple gunned everything! (it never hurts to look out of place in a hardware store, and trust me I don't have to try) And this is my finished product!!

What a simple, cheap idea for art on my wall, and convenient! Thank you Hallelu for the great idea!

happy friday!! have a fun and accomplished weekend ( I sure hope to )

xoxo

pop of pink

2011-03-21T14:15:00.000-07:00

A little pop of a bright color is always a good thing, and can change a room for the better every time. Design*Sponge showed this adorable bathroom today, all white with a pop of HOT pink. I am obsessed!! Love the prints of the flat iron and toothbrush and the pink stones to hot the actual toothbrushes is cute and convenient, great ideas!

luck of the irish

2011-03-21T14:09:00.004-07:00

A little late, I know, but happy belated St. Patty's day, I found an Irish themed wedding on Snippet & Ink so I had to past something! As a girl from Dublin, Ohio I was definitely missing home this past Thursday, green beer and all!

I Love the clovers in the beer and the clover cuff links, what a perfect touch! So elegant but fun at the same time.

Cheers!

xoxo

logo alphabet

2011-03-21T08:07:00.000-07:00

As I was doing some research for my most recent logo project I stumbled across this. I think it is so cool, I knew almost every logo... can you guess what everything is?

Kinda want this print to frame and hang in my house! have a happy monday

xoxo

craving

2011-03-14T16:04:00.000-07:00

saw this s'mores cookie on Oh Joy today.

and OH MY GOSH I want it now!

xoxo

SOUTH BEACH BABY

2011-03-04T21:48:00.001-08:00

on spring break with my girls in MIAMI see you in a week

xoxo

Hallelu loves ME!!

2011-03-03T17:49:00.001-08:00

My favorite shop on Wrightsville beach, Hallelu held a contest to post a picture wearing a Hallelu outfit on facebook. I of course had to enter but I have so many outfits I couldn't choose one. My outfits are worn on a caribbean cruise, puerto rico, rome, Italy and carolina beach. And because I took Hallelu around the world with me, I WON!! I am sooo thrilled, check out there post at Pretty Pleased and take a few minutes, (or hours) to shop on line :)

xoxo

surf board central

2011-03-02T17:35:00.000-08:00

ummmm, how freaking cute is this surfer board theme wedding? I am OBSESSED, thank you Snippet & Ink what a good alternative to the typical sand and sea concept!

xoxo

bridesmaid bliss

2011-03-02T17:20:00.000-08:00

So I have been MIA for a while, I know, but I am just getting back to my self, tuning in with me and the person I used to love to be. I am mending a broken heart and it feels good to become my self again!

In the past bridesmaids have worn some pretty bad dresses just to make sure the bride looks 10x better, but in my opinion if the bridesmaids don't look good, neither does the bride.

so thank goodness, the bridesmaids dresses are getting better, more beautiful, and hopefully useful in the future. I found a few fun examples on Snippet & Ink of gorgeous dresses that make the bride look even better!

the champagne is my favorite!!

xoxo

anything that glitters

2011-02-17T06:49:00.000-08:00

found this AMAZING turquoise diamond shoes and gorgeous glitter wedding dress on OnceWed and I am obsessed!

xoxo

cookies

2011-02-09T13:35:00.000-08:00

scrolling through Design*Sponge today and saw these Pantone Chip cookies! I am in love! They are so cute and I bet they taste good as well. What a great gift for a designer (or me)!

xoxo

friday finds

2011-01-28T09:53:00.000-08:00

not feeling so hot today, but... these little finds brightened my day!

who would have known the beauty in hot air balloons, thank you Once Wed

gorgeous necklace from OhJoy, who wouldn't have a good day with this on? And I just got the sudden urge to shop!

Lovely add from Tiffany for some Valentines Day gifts (although this year, all I want for Vday is the iPhone 4 :)

I don't know if you can read this quote from Apartment34 but it made my day, "The key is to strike a balance to temper Fantasy with Reality" love that

happy Friday

xoxo

pink?

2011-01-23T11:29:00.000-08:00

Every girl always fantasizes about her engagement ring, since the little blue box has been in my mind since day one, I never pictured anything but diamonds. UNTIL, I saw these gorgeous pink rings on Once Wed. I am officially rethinking my fantasy!

xoxo

fortunate

2011-01-23T11:25:00.000-08:00

Found these adorable coin purses on Greedy Girl! They are such a cute idea! Totally need one for that loose change I am 'fortunate' for, no pun intended!

xoxo

hallelu loves you

2011-01-16T09:41:00.000-08:00

So, it is finally time for me to share my favorite boutique with you. Located on Wrightsville Beach in Wilmington, North Carolina, Hallelu has one of a kind women's clothing and accessories. Every time I come to Wilmington, I buy one or two pieces and everything I go home with is amazing! The best part is, no one else has it! The beach bum, relaxed, but high end. If I could have a shopping spree any where of my dream it would be here! check out their facebook page, twitter, blog and website! Its all amazing!

xoxo

breathtaking is right

2011-01-12T12:31:00.001-08:00

Saw a few on Oh Joy!, photographs by Rodney Smith.

Absolutely BEAUTIFUL!

xoxo

100 balloons

2011-01-12T08:14:00.000-08:00

This is my 100th post! wow, I can't believe it!

First day back to classes and I am thrilled! Finally taking all these fun classes in my major and I couldn't be more excited. Started the morning off with Typography. Every one had to choose an antique letter from a hat and I chose an ampersand (&) and I am thrilled. It is my 'letter' for the semester and I cannot wait to see what I will do with it.

Also visited Hallelu's blog (my favorite boutique on Wrightsville beach) and found these beautiful photos. There is just something about balloons. And so appropriate to celebrate the 100th!

xoxo

snow day

2011-01-11T10:41:00.000-08:00

Here in North Carolina, my first day of school is cancelled!! I am bundled up on the couch about to make toasted marshmallow hot chocolate! yumm!

Found these two photos on Once Wed, the coral color of the flowers and the cake pull me out of the cold and give me a burst of warmth on this cold, wintery day. stay warm!

xoxo

the sketch book

2011-01-06T11:54:00.000-08:00

Feeling a little under the weather and vegging out on the couch for the day. I was reading my daily blogs, and thanks to Mrs. Lillian I found a new one I am in love with. I has to be the most upscale, beautiful 'sketch book' I have ever seen! Here are some of my favorite sketches done by Inslee Haynes.. take a look and find your favorites as well. She has officially become one of my daily reads!

xoxo

a few of my favorite things...

2011-01-04T13:20:00.000-08:00

Oh Joy! one of my favorite blogs did a little list of favorite things for 2011. In my opinion 2011 is the year to celebrate beautiful things! here is my list :) what's yours?

CUPCAKES

PINK TUTU'S

FLIP FLOPS

PONY TAILS

KEY LIME PIE

PINK FROSTING

SPARKLE SHOES, WELL ANYTHING THAT SPARKLES

TRUFFLES

WHITE ROSES

CLEAR WATER AND WHITE SAND

DIAMONDS

GOLDEN PUPPIES

EXPENSIVE CHAMPAGNE WITH HIM

CHEAP BEER WITH THE GIRLS

CANDLE LIGHT

ANYTHING IN LAVENDER

WHITE DRESSES

SUMMER

CONVERTIBLES

MOVIE MARATHONS

ONE LINERS BY BETHENNY FRANKLE

THE FUTURE

GOODNIGHT KISSES

SUNDAYS

HOT PINK TOE NAILS

SAIL BOATS

SURPRISES

CURLY HAIR

CREATIVITY

enjoy! off to curl my hair and paint my toe nails pink!

xoxo

lucky

2011-01-04T13:06:00.001-08:00

Woke up this early this morning to attend my 3rd reschedule of Jury Duty. Trying to come up with every excuse I can to get out of this, I realized I forgot to call and check in the night before. I show up 5 min early and no one was there. Come to find out everyone that was summoned for this date is excused for the next 2 years or so! Wow, I got so lucky! After a short nap I got up feeling energized and inspired.

I have organized every drawer and closet and now I am moving on to organize my life on the computer.

I found a gorgeous bedroom on Design*Sponge and I Love it! The dark taupe on the

wall is gorgeous and I love the "love" detail between the pillow, simple and romantic.

Then I found this photo on Once Wed and have officially decided that this glitter shoe fad, which I love, (I have a silver peep toe my self), is so breathtaking with a wedding gown. The gold, skin color sparkle makes the white pop and adds that little something special. I think it should be something old something new something sparkle something blue. Just my personal girly opinion!

xoxo

job hunting

2011-01-04T13:00:00.000-08:00

Happy new year everyone! I can't believe it's 2011, a year I have been talking about since I was 5, my graduating year! I am graduating in May and I need a job!! My first step was to create a portfolio online! so here it is everyone! Please check it out and let me know what you think....

Kelsey Couch's Portfolio

(more work to come from my final semester in college!)

xoxo

a new me!

2010-12-27T08:06:00.000-08:00

I'm Back.... sitting here in the loft of my mothers well decorated beachy chic condo in Ohio and suddenly feel inspired by a blog during my daily read. Im so sorry I fell of the face of the earth, Justin and I went through a lot in the last couple of months, but now we are better than ever, and just in (no pun intended) time for the holidays and his birthday of course. I just had an amazing holiday with my family up north and my grandparents. The holiday continues tomorrow with my dad and Thursday when I go back to North Carolina.

With all the changes that have gone on in my life, I am starting this new year off with a bang. I am finally happy again, motivated and again... and inspired which is all I can ask for. Thanks to Apartment #34 heres the photo that inspired me!

How amazing is this? I love the pink, and what girl doesn't love large pink presents? although we all know the little blue box trumps them all.. wink wink guys. I also found something awesome on Design*Sponge that I had to share and have to have when I get that iPad I secretly want

It's a manilla folder, leather iPad case, how cool is that?

Well I'm off to get sushi and zen cha with Molly in the short north!! very excited, maybe even a little shopping, although I don't have the money, the girl needs to shop :)

I'll be back tomorrow... and I won't promise because I haven't been good about that lately!

found it!

2010-10-24T18:52:00.000-07:00

this is what a perfect wedding looks like to me, it's so gorgeous and I want mine to look exactly like it! Thank you Design To Print for the gorgeous photos and ideas!

xoxo

simple ingredients

2010-09-30T08:54:00.001-07:00

who knew ingredients could be so graphic and beautiful?

by : Carl Kleiner

xoxo

already gone

2010-09-30T08:20:00.000-07:00

Hello, I know it has been forever and because it is the last day in September I figured I would make some time to tell y'all what I have been up to...

First of all I am back in school and loving it! Taking all art related classes is what I have been waiting for for four years and now I know why! my favorite class is the one I am not getting

credit for (because I have already completed the course, now I am just gaining portfolio pieces), advanced graphic design. We just completed a poster about a social issue, here is mine about Verbal Abuse. (which I am obsessed with by the way)

Secondly, Justin and I moved in together with my best friend Ashleigh. I am loving every minute of it. We basically lived together this summer but actually having him there everyday is so much fun. We got to decorate and paint the apartment and it looks so adorable! (i did the decorating and Justin did the painting)

We also just passed our 6th month anniversary which is a mile stone for us. Mom and Jeff were in town the weekend of our anniversary so we went to eat at 1924 Prime steak house on campus and Print Works Bistro to have cocktails and appetizers with the Davis family. It was so much fun to celebrate with everyone, and Justin surprised me with a beautiful promise ring. (it is a ring with diamonds, not a diamond ring to be clear!)

Him and I have been through a lot lately but it is making us stronger and stronger every day.

I also started Boot Camp again 2 weeks ago! Now getting up at 530 to meet Blaze at 6am is rough but worth it. I love it so much, somewhere to be and something I have to do, all benefitting my self! I already feel great and I am only half way done.

I am so happy to be back at school because all my girls are here! It is so nice to have them around and and have someone to turn to close to me!

So far, September has gone well and I cant wait for October and the holidays, planning a trip to Ohio soon to visit my family and the places I love, and make sure Justin loves them too!

I'll try harder to keep up, I promise.

xoxo

last first day of school

2010-08-24T16:05:00.000-07:00

Well Hello, yes I know I fell off the face of the Earth but I'm back and I'm ready to catch up!

I started my senior year of college today. Oh my. I can't hardly believe it and my family is in denial I have actually grown up. of course I have an easy schedule including graphic design, art history, painting, and three dimensional design. Finally all in my major and everything I love.

I moved from Greensboro to High Point into a 2 bedroom apartment off campus for the year! I am so excited! I am living with one of my best friends, Ashleigh and Justin!! So a lot of big things are happening right now. The apartment is absolutely adorable! We got the opportunity to paint so it's colorful and cute! After a lot of heavy lifting (thank you Justin, Jerry and Sam) and pretty details it finally feels like home. I am so happy to have come this far. I have taken on a lot of adult responsibilities and it feels great that I have something to work for and even better when I accomplish it.

Every thing is going amazing so far! I miss my family a lot but like they keep telling me, this is my final year to have as much fun as I want and be young!

**first day of school photos from many years ago :)

xoxo

cruisin'

2010-07-23T22:16:00.000-07:00

Taking a 7 day Cruise to the Eastern Caribbean with my family and Molly! Be back on Saturday!

Miss my baby J :(

xoxo

Bethenny Getting Married?

2010-07-13T12:08:00.000-07:00

Please tell me you have been watching Bethenny Getting Married? on Bravo, thursday nights? It is to DIE for. I am addicted, literally have seen every episode at least three times and still watch them over and over again. Even Justin loves it, I know he does.

Bethenny is one of the Real Housewives of NYC, she is 39, pregnant and planning a wedding with her amazing fiance Jason. She is so incredibly witty and her hormones are outrageous. She speaks every ounce of what's on her mind and she is HILARIOUS. I die laughing every single episode.

I don't know why but I find my self relating to her in some sense. And when I don't relate to her, I want to be just like her. I guess I figure if I watch the show enough, I'll pick up on some of the witty banter. The season is coming to an end, and I am so sad, but I am borderline about to buy her books and drink her Skinny Girl cocktails!

xoxo

the perfect dress

2010-07-13T12:03:00.000-07:00

Found these amazing wedding dresses on Greedy Girl! They are so different yet beautiful and classic, I'm in love! The top one is my favorite the back is so gorgeous, I just think they would all be perfect for a beach wedding!

xoxo

work

2010-06-20T14:57:00.000-07:00

Good Lord I forgot what it was like to work. They made me a cocktail waitress as well as being a hostess, so as of now I basically live at Print Works. Making money, which is good, but the hours are killing me. It will take me some time to get used to it!

Happy Fathers Day today! I have so many great fathers figures in my life. My dad of course, my step dad, and my grandfathers! I am so lucky to have them all! Love you all!!

Too tired to write anything more...

xoxo

caught my eye

2010-06-09T07:37:00.000-07:00

I have also been a little behind checking my blogs like I usually do religiously. But there are a few things that have caught my eye and I want to share with you.

Design*Sponge

Loved this birthday calender! What's more important than your friends and families birthdays all month? What a great way to stay organized with important celebrations!

oh joy!

Found this great poster of "grumpy love". Reminds me of many relationships I have in my life, especially Justin and I. No matter how mad, grumpy or stubborn him and I can be the love is still there.

Also found this gorgeous ampersand! I'm obsessed with typography and this is such a beautiful example, I want it blown up and hanging on my wall.

enjoy!

xoxo

the best part

2010-05-19T11:12:00.001-07:00

So I know I am going to be asked this question a million times so I am going to write down my answer.

Between Rome and Florence, I definitely prefer Florence. There weren't as many sites to see, it was the way real Italians live. I loved the shopping and the relaxed environment, Florence was at a slower pace than Rome and it was just what I needed. Rome was awesome for the art I wanted to see but Florence trumped it. Plus the hotel Globus spoiled me!! I loved it so much more that the one in Rome.

My top three favorite pieces of art I saw were, the sistine Chapel, David, and The Birth of Venus! Those were three things I smiled right away when I saw them. Those pieces are one of a life time sights and I am so fortunate to have experienced all them. (still wish mom was there for them though).

Favorite food, goodness this one is hard! Ill give you the top four, I ate a lot for goodness sake. The cheese ravioli with walnut cream sauce from Za-Za's in Florence, the chocolate soufle from Pepo in Florence, the salami and cheese sandwich from the market in Florence, and the white pizza with tomatoes, black olives and basil from Rome. Damn, I ate well (diet time starts tomorrow).

My favorite nights were both in Rome. Drinking at the local bar and having MAJOR girl time was so much fun with Kara and Katie! But the Pub Crawl through Rome was the BEST! We had the perfect group of girls out and we all so much fun! I also loved the group dinners and am thrilled about all the new friends I made! I know I sound so corny but I don't know how I will go every day without Meg to make me laugh, Kara to talk to, Katie to poke fun with, and Skyler to take care of me. We will have to have many reunions when we are back in High Point!

The best thing I bought, that I am so excited about is a present for Justin, which I can't really tell you about considering its a surprise! I also love the earrings and purse I got for my self. But I am SOOO excited to give everyone their presents! (I am out of money so I shopped well).

That pretty much covers all the AMAZING memorable times I had for my trip through Italy. I learned so much about art history, and a lot of Italian which was so much fun!

The worst part was being away from J, I didn't think it was going to be this hard. It made me really homesick which I never get. Distance makes the heart grow fonder, and that quote was proved to me these past ten days.

This experience was unforgettable. I am so blessed to have gotten this experience. Thank you so much mom, this never would have happened without you, you are the greatest and I love you so much.

Traveling all day tomorrow!

xoxo

i want gelatooooo

2010-05-19T11:00:00.000-07:00

We started early this morning. Went to a tiny town that was quaint and beautiful. From there we went to Sienna, a small town in Tuscany. It was so nice!! We sat outside for lunch, I had bruchetta and gnocchi again! great as usual. From there we went on a bus ride from HELL. Literally off roading through vinyards. We finally made it to the winery. We were 30 min late so we missed the tour, but of course got there just in time for the tasting.

We learned exactly how to smell, see and taste the wine. We tried 4 different wines including a dessert wine with bread, olive oil and biscotti! The wine was a little difficult going down so I poured most of it out. We arrived back to the hotel, grabbed dinner and are packing up to head back to the states.

Waking up at 4am, yet again, to hopefully smooth travels. I have never been more excited for the moment I arrive in Greensboro and see Justin!! I won't be able to sleep on the plane, THE MOST EXCITED.

pray for the volcano to keep quiet!

ciao one last time :( xox0

under the tuscan sun

2010-05-18T10:44:00.000-07:00

Started at SACI, the Art school in Italy, where I would study abroad if I were to come to Italy for a semester. It was pretty empty because they are in between semesters, but it was pretty cool. Could never go to school there, High Point spoils me WAY too much.

Then we took a train ride to Lucca a small town in Tuscany. On the way there I had the most amazing sandwich from the Italian market. It was salami and cheese on bread infused with olive oil. It was so moist and so delicious, I can't even describe. I could eat it every day for a year, and still would ejony it on day 365.

The hilltops and villas were gorgeous. We had an Italian- American tour guide, Paulo (or Paul). He was great, very witty and I love that, kept us entertained. He told us that we had to be super quiet walking through the streets because the people will dump buckets of water out their windows on you, telling you to shut up. The beauty of that was the streets were peaceful. We caught the train back and are getting ready to go out for Jenna and JoJo's birthday!! Last night out with the girls in Italy! I am so excited. But I am ready to see my boy.

Went out to the Dublin Pub and Fish Pub to celebrate Jenna and Jojo's birthday! It was so much fun to have one last night out with all the girls! But the best part of my night was talking to Justin! He told me those three words every girl wants to hear and it made my day, if not week!! Love you baby can't wait to come home to you!

ciao xoxo

market to market

2010-05-17T05:27:00.000-07:00

Slept in a little this morning, thank goodness. We saw the Duomo this morning. We went inside the church but skipped out on the long trip up the dome. I stopped for some peach, pineapple, and melon gelato. So refreshing and good!! Kara and I shopped a little bit more, of course. Then as a group we went to the market. Kind of like a huge fresh market from the states. Meats, sweets, and cheese EVERYWHERE. It was so amazing and everything looked delicious. We did a balsamic and olive oil tasting and the cheese of course, so yummy!

Kara and I grabbed lunch and are relaxing in the room. The rest of the day is free and we are running out of money so italian TV and my bed are calling my name. The shutters are open so the Florence street noise flows into our room giving me all the culture I need for the afternoon.

more day to come...

ciao for now

Had Za-Za's again for dinner, came home, showered and relaxed for the rest of the night. Also got 9 whole hours of much needed sleep!!

xoxo

no fish

2010-05-17T05:04:00.000-07:00

Sunday, a day to relax and catch up. Not so much. We started in the Uffizi Gallery. I saw the Birth of Venus which is one of my FAVORITE paintings! Along with the Primavera and 3 amazing da Vinci pieces.

After the museum we were on our own for the day. Kara and I did a little shopping around the markets and got lunch at Za-Za's again! I had a plate of cheese, amazing goat, brie, gouda and some others I cannot name but were delicious. Followed by ravioli in a walnut cream sauce. to die for.

We headed back to the room and I had the MOST ATM issues so I was super stressed out. Then had my first laundromat experience; not a fan. We got cleaned up and met with the group to walk to a garden and see the city of Florence at sunset. It was gorgeous! We grabbed dinner and headed to a pub across the street from the hotel. It's called the Dublin Pub. I obviously had to go and buy a t-shirt! It was a lot of fun we sat in a booth talking to local Italianos and I learned SO much Italian. I made Antonio translate 'how you doin' from Joey Tribbiani in Friends. The best part was he knew what I was talking about.

Got home for some much needed sleep, the relaxing Sunday didn't go over well. I am feeling a bit homesick, especially when things don't go smoothly. Still loveing Italy, just missing some of those comfortable surroundings.

Sono Italiano, ciao bella

xoxo

no ombrello

2010-05-15T12:46:00.000-07:00

Rainy day today in Florence, not surprising, I know.

Started early in the new hotel. Had a bit more Americanized breakfast of toast, cereal and a kiwi! We went to the Galleria dell' Accademia to see Michelangelo's David. I was in AWE, this sculpture is giant! His foot alone had to be the size of my torso. The way it was sculpted was perfection. Even the veins in his hands looked so real you would think they had warm blood running through them. It was such a site to see and I am still in amazement.

We grabbed lunch (I finally got my Gnocchi) then took a short nap before the afternoon plans. We went to a Church (can't remember the name) where the painting that started perspective was painted. The church was beautiful but the rain was making the group drag a bit. We then headed to the place where they made perfume, soaps, lotions and so on. They had a menu for what was available! Everything smelt so good, it was all hard to resist.

We had the rest of the evening free so we of course, went shopping! There are tents up and down every single street selling Italian leather, knick knacks, and everything with fleurdelis (they are so beautiful I am officially obsessed). But the street venders trying to sell us umbrellas was the MOST annoying. After a long afternoon of shopping and too much money spent we went to dinner at Za- Za's. Dinner was, as usual, delicious!

I am now back in the hotel, relaxing again... up at 7 am (eww)

ciao xoxo

florence bound

2010-05-14T15:44:00.000-07:00

Okay, so this morning was rough. We were up early struggling to make the train. We got to the station and and waited around (with all our 50 pound bags) to make the 'one hour' train to Florence. We all got on the train, made our selves comfortable and come to find out we were on the wrong train and missed the correct one and the only option was to ride the train we were on and had to ride four hours to get there, stopping everywhere in between. The ride was miserable, the only cool thing was we met a professional Chelsea soccer player. Didn't mean anything to me but whatever.

Finally got to Florence and I already loved it more that Rome. It just looked like that romantic picture of Italy I have in my head. Coming off the train the shopping looked amazing!! Cannot wait to spend money here :) We DRAGGED our luggage through the streets and up flights of stairs and got to the Globus hotel. IT IS AMAZING. It is amazing Italian design, modern, chic and so nice. I feel spoiled with free internet and a beautiful surroundings!! Even the business card is perfect, thats when you know the place is good.

We got dressed up and went to our second four course meal with the group. We went to Pepo, a local Italian restaurant where they make their own wine and olive oil. It was so good! The bruchetta was perfect and I finished with a chocolate souffle. Literally could have licked the plate. We were so tired so we came back to the room, watched a movie and relaxed, finally.

Waking up early for our first real day in Florence... hopefully a lot of shopping is involved. I have lots of presents I can't wait to give :) Missing J like crazy, this one week feels like months.

ciao xoxo

when in rome

2010-05-14T06:43:00.000-07:00

The night continued with our plan of not doing anything completely ruined. Jessica came into our room and told us they were going on a pub crawl through Rome. Could I pass this up? Absolutely NOT! So we got dressed up and got a bite to eat. We went to the same restaurant we went to on the first night. They already knew us so we were treated like 'angels'. Kara and I shared the amazing bruchetta again and I got a mushroom and mozzarella crepe. YUM!

The seven of us hopped on the metro (the wrong direction at first, but we figured it out) and headed to the Coloseum to meet with the group hosting the event. We payed 15 euros for a t shirt, free drinks for an hour and a shot when you entered each bar. The crew was legitament, no worries of getting taken.

We rolled deep with about 90 people through Rome. We hit 4 different pubs, all italian, all amazing! There were so many people to meet and talk to! Kara met her gorgeous Italian boy who didn't speak a lick of english, you win Kara, you win!!

I had an amazing last night in Rome! What a fun way to see the city at night, plus I got a free t shirt!!

on to Florence!

ciao xoxo

the most margarita pizza

2010-05-13T06:30:00.000-07:00

Woke up with a bit of a hangover this morning, how dare those Italian boys buy me drinks, Thanks Kara. We headed to the Pantheon. Wow. what a sight to see. This was one of the things i feel like I have been tested over for years and I was actually standing inside. We hung around the square there for a bit and met up with the cutest American art major who is now living in Italy full time. She showed us around the heart of Rome for about an hour, taking us to the Four Rivers Fountain, Bernini sculpted and some AMAZING churches. Also seeing the famous Caravaggio painting, the one with the window and the guys hand that looks like Michelangelo's hand in the Sistine Chapel. Very very cool to see this one, one I recognize.

We all sat down on a patio again, all 21 of us for a classic Italian lunch. Seriously cant get enough of this food. We all had bruchetta and, yet again, margarita pizza. only 9 euros a person, great deal!! The dining was nice and cured my hangover like that! It was a short day so from then on out we are free to rome, (hehe). Did a little shopping, got a little lost, but finally made it home to the hotel. Kara and Katie are fast asleep and I am about to join them for a nice nap...

I will fill you in on the rest of the day when it ends, feels good to relax! Florence tomorrow, yay!!

ciao for a bit...

team italy, roman style

2010-05-13T06:09:00.000-07:00

(i am going to pre apologize for my spelling, Im alone and cant spell a thing, especially in Italian... and im using an Italian key board so wish me luck on punctuation) Today we went to the Borghese gallery. The gardens leading up to it felt like a picture perfect scene from one of those Italian love stories I could lust over for years. Our cute little Italian tour guide did a great job leading us through the museum, but good Lord that tiny woman can talk, and she knows her stuff. Every room of this gallery was filled with amazing paintings and sculptures, and every inch of every wall was covered in something. Literally white space and Rome do not mix well. I walked it to the room and my eye had no where to land... some room that is.

We started with Bernini, Moms favorite (thought of you again mama). We saw many of his sculptures including the one about the rape (I know all you art majors want to kill me but i cant remeber the name of this one EVER), David, and Apollo and Daphne. Speechless. The texts books and the pages of notes were right, this guy can sculpt. Looking at marble was not a thought that was crossing my mind. I figured I was starring at clean, white flesh. Unbelievable. The forms of the skin and every correct detail of the human body was... there are no words. I know now why my mom cried looking at these sculptures. We followed with a little more depressing things, Carravagios paintings, but still amazing to see!

Mid afternoon we went to an Italian restaurant and sat out on the cobble stones under big white umbrellas watching vespas fly by, boys play futbol and chic Italian women walk by with hands full of designer shopping bags. I enjoyed a basil mozzerella pizza and a glass of pinot grigio. After the meal I was stuffed, but who can pass up the gelato in the window next door? I had a cone of Nutella and Hazelnut gelato. Oh. my. Gosh. OMG. Mouth is watering just thinking about it. I wish I could bring that home as a present for everyone.

Later in the day we went to see the Colossem. After dealing with some very forward men dressed as spartas and taking the most photograhs we walked around inside. Amazing. This is true Rome to me. I couldnt believe what was built way back then. And the stories of what took place inside this incredible building is unbelievable. We then headed to the Roman Forum and Im going to be honest with you I had been up since 645 and walking all day, it looked like a pile of rocks. I know that is not what I am supposed to say, but its true. I took the photos that needed to be taken and sat my tired body on one of those rocks.

Then my favorite part of the day, the Trevi Fountain. I threw in a 50 cent Euro and made that wish!! We headed back to the spanish steps to do a little shopping no one could afford. Walking into Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Lacoste, Armani, Prada, Dior, Dolce and Gabanna, like I said CANT AFFORD, I wish. My roommates, Kara and Katie and I headed back towards the hotel and sat outside a pub, had a great dinner, a few drinks and the best (and much needed) girl talk.

top night!!

day three down and loving it

ciao xoxo

the creation of adam, really?

2010-05-11T14:41:00.000-07:00

Woke up at 845 and got breakfast which consisted of Croissants with nutella, peaches, peach yogurt with granola and of course cafe con latte (how Italian am I?)

The first thing we saw was Ecstacy of Saint Theresa. It was amazing and I got to go up close and personal. Then we took the metro to Vatican City and started our long day of amazing sites. We grabbed lunch before entering the church. The girls got gelato and pizza from an authentic Italian street restaurant and we sat outside as we ate. We had an amazing british tour guide to tell us about everything. The weather was cool and cloudy but a perfect day to walk around rome.

We saw everything! The Pieta, Laocooan, The School of Athens, and obviously the amazing frescos throughout the Vatican Museum. And the best part of the day was the Sistine Chapel. I couldn't stop thinking of my mom the whole time, because I know how much she wanted to see it. We went in and snuck SO MANY pictures!! I had to show my mom some how! The ceiling was absolutely breath taking, my neck hurt just from staring at it for so long. I didn't want to stop looking, I felt like there wasn't enough time in the day to memorize every stroke. It was an amazing experience and I am so lucky to have seen what I saw.

After we showered and got ready we went out to a fancy group dinner. We went to Target (the name of the restaurant, I'm sure it sounds gorgeous in an Italian accent). We had the full 4 course meal, starting with prusciutto and mozerella, then a pasta with red sauce, followed with chicken and salad and finished with a light cheesecake tasting flan with a strawberry sauce, oh plus a bottle of wine. Literally could move after this meal... impossible to suck in!

We later visited the Spanish steps where all the locals hung out, and where all the good shopping is. We WILL be going back tomorrow don't you worry. It had been a long day so we headed out not after long. I came back and talked to Justin for an hour. Missing him like crazy.

day 2 down, have to wake up at 645am, wish me luck!

ciao xoxo

35 hours

2010-05-10T14:09:00.000-07:00

So I woke up Sunday morning to start my travels to Italy. Arriving in Washington D.C. at 7am we soon figured out that the Air France counter didn't open till 1pm. Not being able to cross into the airport until after that. All 14 of us hung out in the jail cell looking air port for a bit, but Kara and I made our way to the bar around 1130. A bottle of champagne later it was time to check in. Standing in line to check our bags we found out that the volcano was effecting our flight. We were supposed to head to Paris at 430pm and get in around 730am Paris time. Our flight was delayed until 6pm which would make us miss our flight to Rome.

Our 7 hour flight to Paris was pretty nice we got a full dinner and breakfast and the plane was huge. We landed in Paris to amazing shops of Chocolate, designer purses and the most perfume. We had an unexpected 8 hour layover so we ate french food and slept!!!

We finally arrived in Rome at about 6pm, having the longest travels any trip has had. We got to our hotel, Hotel Aberdeen. We cleaned up after a long couple of days and headed for dinner. About 10 of the girls found this local Italian restaurant! The server spoke english and he was SO funny! I got bruchetta, margarita pizza and italian beer! After an amazing dinner we headed to the hotel and went straight to the internet room. I skyped with mom and Justin which was awesome! after about an hour I went upstairs and crashed right away!

Day one down, pictures to come!

ciao xoxo

mothers day/italy

2010-05-08T16:43:00.000-07:00

I am leaving tomorrow morning at 4am for Italy!! I am so excited but I am going to miss everyone very much! The whole no contact thing is going to kick my butt!!

I will take lots of pictures and be sure y'all feel like you're on the trip with me!

I moved into my new apartment yesterday and I LOVE IT!! it feels pretty darn good to be on my own!!

I will be missing mothers day tomorrow so I wanted to say Happy Mothers Day to all the wonderful women in my life, Mom (of course), Margaret, Nene, Grandma, Nonna, and all the mom's who have treated me like their own (Maebeth, Nancy, Sandy) Love you all so much!!

xoxo

big girl status

2010-05-07T07:38:00.000-07:00

Well my Junior year has officially come to an end and I am a senior in college, I can't believe it. Summer is here and things are getting crazy and moving fast! I am packing up my dorm room where I have lived for 2 years and had some AMAZING memories here. I am picking up the key and moving into an apartment of my own in Greensboro today! I will be living there all summer, being a big girl, paying bills and having a job! I am actually really excited! (Ill let you know how I feel once I have to pay money)

Sunday at 4am I will be headed to the airport to take off to Italy! I will be there May 9th-20th! No communication except for the occasional skype (if you don't have it now get it, it's free and easy) My skype name is kelseycouch so look me up!! It hasn't really hit me that I am going to be in ITALY in a few days. Maybe it's because all the paper work and stress of moving or the fact that I have been there before, I don't know, but I sure am ready for the excitement to kick in!

I will try to blog when I am out there but the Internet costs a pretty penny and I'd rather buy designer bags and gellato! But I promise to write everything down and blog as soon as I get back!!

Let the summer begin!

xoxo

may!

2010-05-01T06:13:00.000-07:00

Happy May everyone!

Summer is literally right around the corner. I have been absolutely crazed with exams, planning my summer and preparing for Italy (I leave a week from tomorrow, OH MY GOODNESS).

So I will be back with you shortly, hopefully on a daily basis when I'm over seas, those internet cafes will love me!!

oh, and TODAY IS KATIE MORAN'S 21st BIRTHDAY!!! cookout all day in 90 degree weather, celebrating with all my favorites. The goon squad is all 21, watch out society!!

xoxo

21

2010-04-15T11:27:00.001-07:00

TODAY IS MY 21st BIRTHDAY!

HAVING THE MOST FUN

xoxo