smyrna townie

Baby H Nursery Inspiration Round 5

2012-01-29T17:07:00.002-05:00

It's a.....

2012-01-06T11:34:00.003-05:00

It's been so long since I've posted anything on this blog. The great news is that the Secret Page of my blog is complete with an amazing ending. It's a boy...due June 2nd!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T08:45:00.000-04:00

Riggs and his cousin, Lucy....this was an impossible picture -- one turtle and one pumpkin

It's been so long since I've been on Blogger....

2011-09-26T09:06:00.002-04:00

Source: iheart-stolenimages.blogspot.com via Cassie on Pinterest

Hmm....verdict is still out?

2011-08-09T16:39:00.001-04:00

So, do you remember reading my post about the Thunder Shirt? Riggs has terrible anxiety with storms and fireworks so we thought this might be a good solution. I'm not sure it works. He really likes wearing it and is very comfortable in it and even fell asleep wearing it the other night. But yesterday's storm seemed exactly like the same ol' Riggs...panting, shaking etc. Maybe third time will be a charm! If not, I'm not sure it was worth the investment. He does look so cute though in his blue and white rugby stripe though, don't you think??!?!!

White Subway Tile with Dark Grout

2011-08-01T17:53:00.000-04:00

Head over to Little Green Notebook and check out all the great photos of White Subway Tile with Dark Grout. Brad and I are constantly talking about updating our bathroom and kitchen with white subway tile. I've contemplated dark grout before and now am really intrigued. Always curious if over time it gives off a side of looking dirty. But, I really like it in these pictures!

So pretty in Sweden

2011-07-26T21:35:00.000-04:00

After loving Stockholm so much just a few short weeks ago, I was excited to see this great apartment in this month's Rue issue.

Open publication - Free publishing - More magazine

Old Train Station

2011-07-25T09:07:00.000-04:00

H. Harper Station in Atlanta is so gorgeous inside....set inside an old Atlanta train station. I love how it looks! Oh and the food is good too!!!

A Black, White and Red Wedding Shower

2011-07-24T21:07:00.002-04:00

This weekend my mother in law and I hosted a wedding shower for a family member...easiest to describe her as a cousin!!! I learned yesterday that there are even more cousins in the Hackett family than I knew could exist! Anyway, it was a great shower and we set the tone early with an awesome Black and White Stripe Invite.

Game #1 of 2 -- guess the bride's age in 13 photos -- I think our winner had 8 out of 13 correct.

Game #2 -- Words of Wisdom for the Bride -- we had the bride read all the cards written by the guests and probably 9 out 10 people wrote don't go to bed angry....so guess that one is important!

Gorgeous White Hydrangea

Here's the buffet....Coconut Cupcakes & Strawberry Cupcakes and mixed in black, white & red boxes to add some height.

The cutest paper on the planet....Mr. and Mrs. I might be the only person who hadn't seen it.

Favors -- Cupcake Pops in the shape of a ring, a tux, a bride, a wedding cake and a heart...from Etsy.

The hostesses and the darling bride-to-be!

Hostesses-- don't you love our coordinated outfits?!?!

Websites:
Punch
Black and White Stripe Napkins
Crunchy Cucumber Rounds
Strawberry Cheese Ring
Ham & Swiss Poppyseed Rolls

Fam's in Town

2011-07-24T20:40:00.001-04:00

We had a great visit last weekend from my mom and 2 of our nieces Carlie and Brittany. I'm fully up to speed on the world of 15 and 7 year olds!!! Did anyone know that flat bill hats are for cool kids now and not just for those who wear saggy pants???!? This was news to me!!!

David and Dawn --- if you're reading this...did you know they make a Nerd Minnie Mouse? I had Kelly take a photo with her Minnie! J/K Kelly -- you know you're just smarter than us!

We're Back!

2011-07-19T21:54:00.001-04:00

We're back from a great adventure into London for one day of Wimbledon, then on to Stockholm, Sweden and then a couple days in Prague. Wimbledon was amazing, but Stockholm was the highlight. What a great town, with beauty, gorgeous and nice people and 18 hours of sunlight! We had the best tour guides in Sweden, Jonas and Claudine Palm and Merridith and Ola Kristoffersen. Jonas and Claudine live here in Atlanta, but Jonas is from Sweden. Merridith and Ola currently live in Norway, but used to live in Atlanta. There really isn't anything better than having local friends when you're abroad to help with the language (although that would not have been a problem), but also to make sure we experience all that we should like the best places to eat and best drinks!

Wimbledon

We were so excited to get in...we just walked up, got in the line (or queued up that is) and bought tickets. We could have purchased tickets for Court #1 where the Bryan's were playing, but we would not have been sitting together. So we opted for grounds tickets which got you in and to all the courts except the show courts where all the big action was. We saw some good doubles!

Here's our hotel in Stockholm, the Rica Hotel Kungsgatan -- it was great! Walking distance to everything and a great lobby for drinks and breakfast. Also, the store, Pub, that was connected to it was so fun. I included some pictures below of some things I really liked!

The Pub and some lovely things!

Here's Brad drinking a fruity Pimms...he didn't finish it, but we made a
little fun of him for his girly drink!

Here we are touring Stockholm

A toast with Sweden's favorite drink: Akvavit....oh it burns!

This was the bar we hit up after dinner in Stockholm the first night. Because it gets cooler at nights, all the outside bars have blankets. This blanket might not have remained at the bar, however!!!

Red Bull in glass bottles :)

Old Town Stockholm

2nd night out on the town....At Happy right on the water

Local Swedish Fare.....Herring

Prague

Interesting art in Prague

More interesting art

Top of Prague Castle

Famous Charles Bridge

If you've got spare time, here's all 228 pictures!

Where in the world are K & B?

2011-06-29T09:08:00.000-04:00

Flight departs tonight....lots of pictures to follow!!!

Simply Natural...All things Inspirational: Anthropologie Debuts Bridal Line!

2011-06-24T13:45:00.000-04:00

Tonight I found a new blog that was fun to browse through....Simply Natural...All things Inspirational. Had to re-post the info about Anthropologie's new wedding brand, BHLDN , (pronounced 'Beholden') and it's gorgeous! This was posted months ago and I didn't even know. There's more to the site than dresses too...very exciting because who doesn't love everything at Anthropologie!!! Thanks Simply Natural...look forward to following along!

This one's for my Dad

2011-06-23T20:38:00.000-04:00

Every time my Dad comes in town, I'm always thinking for places he might like....he likes beer....so breweries and a good beer selection is what we're looking for! I'm chronicling these places now so I'll remember.

1- Common, I know, but I never think about it when Dad is in town: Sweetwater Brewery

Every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday between 5:30 and 7:30 PM and Saturday from 2:30 to 4:30PM, SweetWater opens its doors and its taps to the public. It's $8.00 for all you can drink in a pint glass. Dad-- you'll love it and Riggs or Lucy can come too.

2-- Something new I just read in Atlanta Bearings Guide is the Wrecking Bar Brewpub in East Atlanta.

As a 20th-century Victorian-style home, a Methodist Protestant church, a dance school and most recently as the Wrecking Bar architectural antiques store, the journey to bring you an ever-changing selection of specialty beers brewed on site and craft pub food has been defined by fond memories made by notable Atlanta families. On June 19, 2011, Bob and Kristine Sandage will begin a new legacy, as the basement of the charismatic Victor H. Kriegshaber House is christened as the Wrecking Bar Brewpub!

Hidden Tv's

2011-06-06T10:24:00.001-04:00

Maybe in our next house, we'll get the TV on the wall....I really like the idea of sort of hiding it on the wall in a gallery of photos.

Wish Lanterns

2011-06-05T10:09:00.000-04:00

If you haven't seen the Hangover 2 yet, it's hilarious. But, there's a scene at the end of the movie during a wedding where everyone releases what look like mini hot air balloons into the air. A quick search and I found tons of beautiful photos with these lanterns. They are called Sky Lanterns and some places have them as Wish Lanterns. I love this!

Shelter Mags

2011-06-02T22:54:00.000-04:00

The love of all these great online mags is getting so much buzz....check out the New York Times article here. Lonny Mag, Matchbook, Rue, and High Gloss (a new one for me tonight along with the term "shelter mag"!)

Riggs Love

2011-06-01T09:16:00.000-04:00

It only took a year, but we finally got the "Riggs Love" wall completed yesterday. Blackberry photos aren't the best, but these are framed pictures of him from his professional photo shoot last year with Alecia Lauren!

Beach Time

2011-05-31T21:01:00.001-04:00

About two weeks ago on a Tuesday drive into work, I called Brad and said, "We have to go to the beach for Memorial Day weekend. I just need to get by the water." So, the search was on a for a last minute rental in the Panhandle. We lucked up with Dunesbury Carriage House in the wonderful Rosemary Beach. I took so many pictures of the place because it was just so perfect....the large, wide-planked wood floors, the stable door as the bathroom door (which I obviously didn't get a good picture of...ugh), the chair in the bathroom and the color scheme. Just heaven!

Happy Memorial Day

2011-05-31T20:47:00.000-04:00

I wanted to upload this picture yesterday from this past weekend in Rosemary Beach, but had some challenges. Hope everyone enjoyed a great Memorial Day!

New Toy

2011-05-25T23:47:00.001-04:00

Trying out the new iPad....just a quick test!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Bean Time

2011-05-24T21:13:00.000-04:00

Nope...not talking about Bean town as in Boston, but we did have a great weekend in Chicago! We got our picture in front of "The Chicago Bean." Not really sure why, but it is so popular! Just love how gorgeous the city is...the tulip beds along Michigan Ave were incredible. I started touching flowers because eventually I thought they weren't real....they are! We stayed 2 nights at the Park Hyatt and one night at The James (not as good as The James in Soho BTW). Did a ton of shopping along Michigan Ave. and then cruised the lake and river at sunset. Got over to eclectic Wicker Park as well as Lincoln Park and out to Wrigley Field and the Zoo. The Lincoln Park Zoo is free....that was a bonus! It's too bad it gets so cold in the winter because Chicago could be on the list of places to live one day. But, the pictures from Winter 2011 seal that idea.

This is the Bean....

The beach at Lake Michigan.....I was intrigued by the people laying out on the hard concrete. But...whatever it takes to be next to water...I get it!!!

1890's Farmhouse For Sale

2011-05-20T17:54:00.000-04:00

One of my most favorite houses I've ever been in is now for sale. If only I could live in East Cobb in Marietta. We just couldn't handle the commute.....if this we're in Smyrna, I promise you, we'd be moving. Check it out here.

Space Invaders

2011-05-19T21:19:00.004-04:00

Who wouldn't want this in a room...one of the best Atari games, ever!!!!! Found here.

Inman Park Festival

2011-05-16T19:27:00.001-04:00

A delayed post, but a few weekends back we went to our favorite Atlanta festival in Inman Park. I thought this company had the cutest stuff.

bee good design: Good time had by all: " What a weekend! The 40 th Inman Park Festival was a great time. Beautiful weather, fun people, awesome parade all that an..."

Lonny + West Elm

2011-05-16T07:24:00.000-04:00

Enter Now

CHI-TOWN

2011-05-15T19:14:00.003-04:00

We'll be off to Chicago this weekend. Looking for good suggestions of things we must do. Where are the local shopping areas? Vintage markets etc?

Sweet Valley High

2011-05-14T20:34:00.003-04:00

Who used to read Sweet Valley High growing up? I know I did and loved it! NY Times had an article about how there's a new grown-up book out there and the girls are older...more the age that their favorite readers are now. I'm going to read it....let me know if you have too!

These are cute

2011-05-12T15:21:00.005-04:00

Have been planning a few showers and other parties at work and was searching the Hostess Blog for some cute ideas. I needed a wine charm for some champagne glasses for an engagement party and then some favors for a baby shower. While searching, I saw these and thought they were creative.

So, here's what I came up with for the engagement party. A cheap, fake diamond ring just around an expandable ring so it will open around the wine steam.

Then for the baby shower, I went with Hubert's Lemonade with a little tag about something sweet...etc...

Beautiful Bermuda

2011-05-01T22:01:00.006-04:00

Brad and I had a lovely visit to Bermuda the other weekend to check out Tuckers Point Hotel. Bermuda is not like some islands out there with slow service and sketchy areas here and there; Bermuda is beautiful everywhere! It was chilly on Saturday and we attempted to brave the wind and sit by the pool, but after 20 minutes wrapped up in towels, that seemed a little bit like a waste of time so we played 9 holes of golf instead. The Tuckers Point Golf Club crosses right over the Mid-Ocean Club Golf Course which was pretty exciting. It's just so gorgeous in Bermuda!

Lilly Pulitzer

2011-05-01T20:54:00.003-04:00

Feautred in this month's Real Simple, the Lilly Pulizter Shoe-Storage Ottoman. Why didn't I think of this one?

4 a.m. EST -- GET UP PEOPLE!

2011-04-29T04:00:00.000-04:00

THUNDER SHIRT?

2011-04-27T21:29:00.003-04:00

Our sweet little Riggs hates storms....he just shakes and shakes. So, today as we're witnessing the worst outbreak of tornadoes in the Southeast and we pray for our neighbors in Alabama, I think I've probably waiting too long to buy Riggs the Thunder Shirt. Anyone ever used this? Would love a real life testimonial about it!

Are cupcakes a thing of the past?

2011-04-27T13:14:00.000-04:00

Cupcakes have caught on everywhere, but I think the cupcake pops are the next big wave. The ones at Starbucks are yummy if you haven't tried them yet! Has anyone use the cupcake pop maker? I'm intrigued....let me know if you have!

NYC

2011-04-26T20:19:00.013-04:00

We're back to our traveling self's again....yeah! We went to NYC for Brad's birthday and Bermuda last weekend. We had a great time in NYC staying at a hotel we like a lot, The James in Soho. We've been to NYC a couple times so this go around we did a few new things like the Chelsea Market and visiting the 9/11 Memorial. We went to a show of one of our favorite comedians, Mike Birbiglia and then ate dinner at David Burke's Kitchen. Before the show at the Bleecker Street Theatre, we had a slice of pizza at Bleecker Street Pizza....I'm serious when I say that this is pizza that I would die to have a slice at least once a week. It was amazing! And the place was the smallest place with Italian men just screaming everywhere...nothing fancy, but perfect! Saw Kelly Cutrone filming outside her office and David Burke was actually in his restaurant walking around talking to everyone. That was it for the star sighting though....what is that....like D listers?!?!?

Saturday we took a BRISK and I mean cold and windy run across the Brooklyn Bridge and then walked over to the World Trade Center. It's amazing how much is going on over there....just takes my breath away to think about 9/11. Brad and I were talking about the exact things we were doing that day....I guess it's just something we'll never forget.

Instead of having dinner out, we headed to Hundred Acres for brunch in the afternoon which I guess is the New York thing to do on the weekends. Every place was packed in Soho. It was really good and I'd highly recommend this farm-to-table restaurant if you're there.

Chelsea Market

I thought this was so New York...random I know!!!

Happy Birthday to Brad!

2011-04-14T22:07:00.001-04:00

Brad's Birthday weekend in NYC here we come!

TRADHome

2011-04-12T20:30:00.003-04:00

A combination of Lonny Magazine and Traditional Home came out today. 347 pages....plan some time to get through it all!

Masters Sunday

2011-04-10T17:22:00.002-04:00

A favorite Sunday in the Hackett house....Masters Sunday. Here are the boys on the couch for the 2011 final Sunday as we watch Tiger make a run.

Found It!

2011-04-10T17:02:00.006-04:00

Thanks to my sister's MIL, we now have the round table we were looking for! Took a quick drive this morning up to Chattanooga, TN to Southeastern Salvage and picked it up. Now, I think we need a new light....anyone have thoughts on that? I've been thinking about the hanging basket light idea, but might be leaning to something more industrial.

Maybe a light like the big one in this picture? Saw this at Scotts Saturday...not sure it's enough light, but something to think about!

"Got Milf? The Modern Mom's Guide to Feeling Fabulous, Looking Great, and Rocking a Minivan," by Sarah Maizes

2011-04-05T09:17:00.003-04:00

Found on DailyCandy Today -- not that I'm a Mom, but I have enough friends who are and thought this was so cute!

Somewhere between the delivery room and the carpool line you lost your mojo. And though “Reclaim sex kitten status” is not at the top of your to-do list (hey, it’s on there, though, way below “Get baby food out of hair”), you’re well aware of how important it is to shave your legs regularly. We’d like to suggest Got Milf? The Modern Mom’s Guide to Feeling Fabulous, Looking Great, and Rocking a Minivan, a new book by Sarah Maizes, blogger, comedienne, and mom to three. The best way to describe the breezy read is this: It’s the girlfriendish advice you’re so good at giving but never take to heart yourself (be honest — did you shower today?). Full of hilarious, insightful, and quote-worthy tidbits (we’re still reeling over “Have sex before you go out to dinner”), the book enlightens and entertains without coming off as preachy. Maizes uses humor to remind you of all the reasons you’re a mom others would like to … ahem. After all, as she points out, if moms weren’t doing the deed, we’d all be only children. Available online at amazon.com, $14. Follow Maizes online at mommyliteonline.com.

Bracket Madness

2011-03-25T15:42:00.002-04:00

It's been fun while it lasted, but I think I might go down in flames tonight. Brad hosts a bracket pool each year and since last Friday, I have been in first place...out of about 67 people. Last night, Brad snuck up to second place. I'm sure people think this is rigged but let's see what happens tonight! Need some big things from Marquette!

A long road....

2011-03-10T16:30:00.003-05:00

It's been a long 4 or so weeks since the big fall on the tennis court. I'm going to try my damnest not to do that again. The stitches have healed up nicely and you can't really see anything unless you look under my chin. All of my teeth are almost fixed....I've got one permanent crown, one filling, one root canal on the way and one more crown. That should pretty much wrap this thing up. I'm starting to feel more like myself each day and even have had the urge to change up the blog a bit. More to come on that.

Add this to normal life + we randomly sold my car, went a week without a car, got a new car, Brad had a little minor elective surgery and on and on. Brad is doing well!!

Round Dining Table

2011-02-07T08:13:00.000-05:00

Have had my eye out for a round dining wood table made from reclaimed wood...maybe this is the one from Redefined Boutique!

Oh man....

2011-02-06T19:41:00.003-05:00

This is what happens when uncoordinated people play tennis.....ugh...4th game of the 1st set today and one busted chin with a large gash to the bone and a bunch of stitches. And, tomorrow I'll be visiting the dentist for the 3 cracked teeth that came along with the fall. But, I made a great shot and at least won the point! HAHAH!

Where has the time gone?

2011-01-10T11:54:00.008-05:00

What a whirlwind we've been on since Christmas?!?!? We had a wonderful time in Panama City with my family for the holidays. Got to see Nana which is always a blessing and she's doing well. Was highly entertained by the nieces and nephews and have gotten up to speed on the current worlds of high school drama, Just Dance on Wii and everything else in between!

Celebrated New Year's and Mom's birthday here in Atlanta for the big Noles vs Sprurrier in the Chick-fil-A Bowl. It was so much fun in our own suite and even better with the Noles win! Also, celebrated my big 32nd birthday with our friend Amelia who also shares her birthday with me....January 5th. It's crazy that Brad and I both know close friends who have our same birthday's. I feel like that doesn't really ever happen.

Mom and Dad

The real Noles --- my brother '90, me '00 and Dad--a big fan!

And, can everyone just pause a moment and look at Brad's head? Yes...that is a FSU hat! I bought it for him for Xmas leaving him no choice, but to support my team this time!

Today we are enjoying a snow day and are snuggled up on the couch in lounge clothes and mindless TV. As you can see from the videos below, Riggs is loving it and going crazy! He's sacked out on the couch right now...guess he's worn out. I'm quite happy and seems like 2011 could be off to a good start. Maybe that means I'm even going to be inspired soon and get some good posting coming! We shall see!!! Until then...stay warm!

more riggs in snow

2011-01-10T11:47:00.000-05:00

riggs in snow 2011

2011-01-10T11:37:00.000-05:00

Peace on Earth

2010-12-25T07:30:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas!

Source

It's a Wrap

2010-12-20T06:00:00.000-05:00

Almost finished wrapping all my gifts this year! How about you? If you need some inspiration, Country Living has some cute items in one of their galleries.

#4

2010-12-19T18:29:00.005-05:00

Check the box as completed! We did our 4th and final 5K for 2010 on Saturday for the Merry Christmas 5K in Virginia Highlands. Woke up super early on Saturday to the sound of rain on the roof. We didn't even know it was going to rain and we watched the weather forecast the day before. So...what do we do? Turn over and sleep in the warm, cozy bed or get dressed to run in the rain? We are proud of ourselves...we did the latter and ran in the cold rain. It actually stopped raining right before the race started but we give ourselves credit for getting out of bed in that nasty mess! The goal for 2011 is to actually run in between these races and condition ourselves so it's not so brutal.

100

2010-12-17T19:26:00.004-05:00

Throw a dart at any of the 100 photos in Atlanta Magazine's 100 Superlative Spaces and I'd be happy. Any one will really do!!!

Love this!

2010-12-15T20:26:00.005-05:00

Keeping this photo for inspiration next year for the Hackett household. I'm embarrassed to admit that we hardly did any holiday decor this year. And, by hardly I mean no tree and nothing inside. Just one little topiary with lights on the porch. Just ran out of time and what's the point now with just 10 days to go?!?!?

Source

2 More!

2010-12-15T20:17:00.004-05:00

And here's Nesting Newbies and Sweet Paul. More online mags. Here's a poll to vote for your favorite. All 6 of those you can vote for are ones I've posted about on the blog. My favorite, Lonny, needs some more votes!

Holiday Soiree

2010-12-12T17:45:00.004-05:00

I don't know about ya'll, but we're only attending a couple holiday parties this year. Are they happening without me? I sure hope it's just because of economic times that are still around and holiday parties still lacking! The new issue of Lonny has some great tips from Lulu Powers if you are hosting a party!

Online Mags

2010-11-26T22:58:00.009-05:00

The online design magazine world seems like it's growing so fast! I feel like I find a new one each week. I've complained before about how much I love the real thing...real pages to turn vs online. But, on the flip side, I've started to love the fact that the stories online can be even longer than print ones and there are links right to things you might like. But...today I'm browsing through Absolutely Beautiful Things blog and Anna mentions that she has ordered a hard copy of LONNY Magazine. Um...hello?!?!? I didn't know this was an option. It's still a bit pricey, but I feel like the magazine page turning days are coming back!!!

Here are some others to check out in addition to LONNY: Ivy + Piper, Rue and Pure Green Living.

Centerpiece Mania

2010-11-15T06:32:00.000-05:00

Feels like it's been "Making Centerpiece Mania" at work recently as we've had a ton of things going on! Our team uses a wholesale florist and makes most centerpieces for our internal events....big money savings and it's a great way for the team to use their creativity. Just a couple highlights to share of the beautiful workings of the style savvy Cecile.

These were used at an event we hosted for the commissioner of the NFL...I love the flower on the right...it's called a Brain Flower apparently. The linens are actually a most eye catching orange, but you can't tell.

This next set was used a small CEO Dinner we hosted at the Ritz. In-house florists tend to make centerpieces too big to talk over and too feminine. These dinners are usually filled with all men who don't really care about the centerpieces, but something low and manly is just the right thing to fill in the table. Cecile did a great job with pods, moss and rocks.

Run Hackett's Run

2010-11-14T14:12:00.008-05:00

Earlier in the spring, Mr. Townie & I started running 5K's. This Saturday we finished our 3rd 5K!!! This was actually a trail race...the Hill Country Trail Race at Serenbe. Our first trail race and we definitely loved that vs the traditional race on boring streets. Finished in 35 minutes which is good for us...well me...I slow Mr. Townie down and he's patient to wait on me!!! It was a gorgeous, albeit chilly 40 degree morning and running right next to horses and ducks quacking on the pond was a great way to start a Saturday morning. Maybe this time next year, we'll run the 15K....hahaha!

Town of Serenbe-- start of Race
Beautiful foggy pond...you can see all the runners ahead of us on the other side
A co-worker of Brad's and me after the race
After the race..all smiles!

Vegas, Baby!

2010-11-14T13:49:00.006-05:00

We had a super fun time in Vegas last weekend. We went with Kris and Cheryl (a co-worker of Brad's and his wife). Cheryl was a finalist in the Great Urban Race that was happening in Vegas last weekend so we thought we'd tag along!!! Starting with an amazing stay in the brand new Mandarin Oriental Hotel in City Center and ending with a fun night at a Food & Wine event at Aria, we had a great time! We certainly didn't come back millionaires, but had fun betting on horses, football and playing some blackjack. That's all I'll say about the betting!!!

We started each night on the 23rd Floor Bar at the Hotel with an incredible Vegas skyline view. Thursday night we did the bottle service table thing at Tryst at the Wynn, Friday was an incredible day at the Mandarin Pool with a casual night at Todd English's Pub and Saturday was the Food & Wine All-star Weekend event at Aria.

Brad, me, Cheryl and Kris at our table at Tryst
Kris and Top Chef Contestant Fabio Viviani

Brad and Top Chef Contestant Jennifer Carroll

Swaddle and Scarf

2010-10-31T19:55:00.002-04:00

A gal in my office bought these super stylish swaddle blankets for a friend who had a new baby. She actually wore one of them as a scarf and it was so cute. I had no idea that it wasn't actually a scarf! Definitely be sure and check out the super soft Aden + Anais....they are so gorgeous!

GA/FL

2010-10-30T07:00:00.000-04:00

It's that time of year again....we're heading down to Jacksonville for that large outdoor cocktail party. It's going to be a great game! GO DAWGS!

Halloween Decor

2010-10-27T20:02:00.003-04:00

A great idea over at House Tweaking about how to do some Halloween Decor that is barely noticeable.

Lights Off

Lights On

I like it! So very subtle!

Peachtree Battle

2010-10-26T20:44:00.004-04:00

Oh wow....here's a gorgeous house for sale in Peachtree Battle....a really great part of Atlanta. The inside of the house is very unexpected to me considering outside. I was expecting maybe a Tuscany or Spanish flair......but...I love it!

Fall in Georgia

2010-10-24T18:25:00.000-04:00

We found a fall Sunday that wasn't filled with traveling or playing tennis so we took advantage of it and went up to Amicalola Falls in Dawsonville, GA. The leaves are starting to turn and we got a good leg burn going up the Mountain Laurel Loop, then the 425 steps to the Top of the Falls and back down. Our legs were literally shaking as we were coming down the final hill.

Here are the 425 steps...we went up to the top and then back down. Luckily, there were landings on the way up to stop here and there!

View from the top

Can you see my legs shaking here? This was at the end!!!

Country Living Fair

2010-10-24T17:23:00.004-04:00

This past weekend, Country Living Magazine held a festival in Stone Mountain. My mom and dad came in town and we went to the fair on Friday to avoid the weekend crowds. It was great! All the tents were set up on this trail in the woods (see last photo on the right) so the cool air, beautiful sky and a little walk through the woods shopping made for a great day. We bought a few things like a wreath made from wood chips, a pumpkin made from vintage 1950's fabric, a metal star to hang on the shed and a beautiful necklace. I saw so many great things though and took pictures of them all! Lots of great ideas all around!

Be sure and check out Shawna Robinson's Happy Chair website....these chairs were amazing! Next year if this festival comes back here, you've got to go. It's definitely worth it!! Thanks for coming in town Mom & Dad! It was fun to hang out!

Red Roses, Red Roses

2010-10-24T17:15:00.002-04:00

6 wonderful years with Mr. Townie and a dozen red roses for me :) I've gotten flowers before, but never red roses. He does love!

Best Costume Ever

2010-10-10T21:06:00.003-04:00

Absolutely the best costume ever I think! I sent to my brother who is a huge Star Wars fan and has a little girl and boy. They would be so cute in these costumes! Via Bleubird.

The West was not Won

2010-10-05T20:37:00.008-04:00

This past weekend we headed out to Boulder, CO for the UGA vs Colorado football game. Most of you who read this blog know how that game turned so won't talk about that part :( We did have a great time in Colorado as the weather was beautiful and Boulder is a cool, laid back town. The stadium and campus was also really pretty. UGA alumni hosted a tailgate for 3,000 Dawg fans which was a lot of fun. Then, there was game....blah, blah, blah. Ended the night with a gross meal at the Boulder IHOP...maybe we were just depressed!

Sunday we got up and headed to Denver and Red Rocks Park/Amphitheatre. One lost blackberry (found quickly) and 1,000 steps made me feel so out of shape, but we decided to blame that on the elevation and air. Made me feel better! HA!

Bahamas

2010-10-01T14:30:00.006-04:00

Finally getting to this post about the trip to the Bahamas. It was so much fun! As a reminder because I post about this twice a year, the trip is for people who raise a ton of money for the chamber each year...this is their incentive for working so hard. My role is to help pick the place where we go and plan the events we have while we are there. This year we were at the One & Only Ocean Club. This was was out of sight!

Here are some photos of the dinner events we hosted. The videos from Wednesday night have had to go into the archives so I don't get fired!

Monday Night -- how about that hair?!!! It was breezy!

Wednesday night -- Dinner in Versailles Gardens

My date, Celeste, since Mr. Townie had already gone back.

Our Room...
Our adventure over to The Cove at Atlantis -- The Cain pool was pretty amazing. Somehow we got in, guess we weren't really supposed to though!

Definitely recommend Paradise Island. Atlantis was fun with the rapids and slides, but Ocean Club is the place to be.

2010-09-24T16:49:00.002-04:00

On the plane now heading back from a fabulous week in the Bahamas! Not only were we at the One & Only Ocean Club with beautiful weather all week, we found the Straw Market with designer handbag heaven. Tory Burch, Jimmy Choo etc....we aren't talking NYC type of bags here...these bags could be real!!! Insanity! More to come!

Lonny Mag Website

2010-09-16T07:10:00.002-04:00

Lonny Mag now has a website full of great decor photos! Very exciting!

Labor Day Weekend Re-cap

2010-09-12T19:36:00.007-04:00

I do believe we're finally rested from last weekend. Does this mean I'm old? Let's not answer that one!!! For those that don't know, we started out last Saturday at the UGA game in Athens, stayed for the first half, drove back to ATL and then took a 9 p.m. flight to NYC.

We spent Sunday at the US Open with Jason, Lara, Julie, Kim, Jackie and Dan. Saw some great tennis (Andy Murray, Sam Querrey, Nadal among others) and enjoyed some "Honey Deuce" refreshing beverages!!! Sunday night we dined at STK in the Meatpacking District. AMAZING! Ate my weight in food for sure.

Monday morning Mr. Townie and I ate the best breakfast at The Crosby Street Hotel. If that hotel were in our price range we would have stayed there indeed!!!

Went to a Yankees game in the afternoon at the new stadium. Thanks Gail! Spent the rest of afternoon shopping in Soho and ended the day in Greenwich at Loconda Verde at the Greenwich Hotel. Another amazing dinner where I gained at least 5 lbs.

The Men's Jcrew Store in Tribeca

The 6 a.m. flight back to ATL on Tuesday was brutal followed by a brutal day of work for both of us. It sounds like a Rock Star weekend and it was....but we paid for it all week long.

To mix up our hotels, we stayed one night at The Smyth in Tribeca and 2 nights at The James in Soho. Highlights at The Smyth were the Kiehls bath products and at The James there was great decor like the wall below made out of computer keys.

Aly's

2010-09-04T19:44:00.001-04:00

The love I have for Aly's Beach is something that I can only explain as awe. I have so many photos saved in my iphoto file I've named House Ideas. Yeah right....like any photos in there are realistic house ideas, but I love to scroll through the pictures and just dream. So...check out this Aly's Beach house on Atlanta Homes.

And just to be fair...

2010-09-03T07:26:00.000-04:00

GO DAWGS! Some red & black delights!

Souces: #1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

Something special....

2010-09-02T19:13:00.005-04:00

There's something special about this time of year when the weather gets a little bit cooler and all sports conversations switch to college football. It's going to be an interesting year for both my teams (FSU & UGA). Just to put this in print for Mr. Townie....my team is ranked higher than yours. HAHAHAH! Found some pretty photos that make me think of the Garnet and Gold....could be this year we are finally back?!?!?! Go Noles!

Sources: #1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6,

Rung after Rung

2010-08-27T10:38:00.000-04:00

Who knew there were so many things you could do with a ladder? Check out some of Apartment Therapy's ideas.

A sense of humor in the air

2010-08-26T10:18:00.000-04:00

A co-worker, Cecile, sent this to me this week....looks like fun! Kulula is an Airline with head office situated in Johannesburg that makes an effort to change things up in the sky. Apparently, these are some real incidences.

On Kulula flights there is no assigned seating, you just sit where you want. Well passengers were apparently having a hard time choosing, when a flight attendant announced, "People, people we're not picking out furniture here, find a seat and get in it!"
On another flight with a very "senior" flight attendant crew, the pilot said, "Ladies and gentlemen, we've reached cruising altitude and will be turning down the cabin lights. This is for your comfort and to enhance the appearance of your flight attendants."
On landing, the stewardess said, "Please be sure to take all of your belongings. If you're going to leave anything, please make sure it's something we'd like to have."
"There may be 50 ways to leave your lover, but there are only 4 ways out of this airplane."
"Thank you for flying Kulula. We hope you enjoyed giving us the business as much as we enjoyed taking you for a ride."
As the plane landed and was coming to a stop at Durban Airport , a lone voice came over the loudspeaker: "Whoa, big fella. WHOA!"
From a Kulula employee: " Welcome aboard Kulula 271 to Port Elizabeth . To operate your seat belt, insert the metal tab into the buckle, and pull tight. It works just like every other seat belt; and, if you don't know how to operate one, you probably shouldn't be out in public unsupervised."

Well...you get the idea!!! The plane looks a little different too!

Rosemary Beach

2010-08-25T22:12:00.005-04:00

Ahh....a week at the beach! Great weather, great food, fun times with my favorite in-laws and so close to my family that Mr. Townie and I got to see everyone....even my best friend from high school who was in town too! We were up early playing tennis, then beach and pool for the day. Mixed in some shopping and the boys played some golf....we didn't miss doing a thing!

From the beach

2010-08-19T21:14:00.005-04:00

This year's beach trip has been great...I just had to share my morning with you all. After taking Mr. Townie to the airport super early, instead of going back to bed, I went to the beach to catch the sunrise. Such a great 30 minutes just being the only person I could see on the beach for miles. It was a cloudy morning so the sun didn't actually make it through the clouds, but the hues of pink in the sky, seagulls flying and waves crashing just put me at ease....I love the beach!

MKE

2010-08-09T20:26:00.006-04:00

Visited Milwaukee last week for a conference and have to say I wasn't at all excited about the location. But, low expectations yield great rewards, don't they?!?!? First venture to Wisconsin and enjoyed the nice people, cool breeze at night with 73 degree weather eating dinner along the river and a walkable downtown. In Milwaukee there is an ordinance that doesn't allow you to tear down old buildings so everything is re-purposed into restaurants, lofts, condos and adds so much character especially in the Historic Third Ward.

Brad joined me for the weekend and we drove an hour north to Kohler, WI. A beautiful town where Kohler bathroom products were created. Also, if you follow golf, watch the PGA Championship this weekend and you can see the gorgeous Whistling Straits Golf Course. This is where we were...just such a gorgeous place on Lake Michigan. We woke up Saturday morning and took a quick stroll and were greeted by a beautiful doe and her fawns in an open field. Just a truly, relaxing beautiful part of our country.

Blurb

2010-08-08T14:48:00.003-04:00

I love the greatest site for creating photo books that was featured in the latest Country Living magazine...Blurb. I spent about 7 hours two weekends ago compiling pictures from our trip to London and Paris into a book. I wanted something to remember everything by, but did not want a traditional scrapbook. Instead, Blurb creates hard back books that look like coffee table books. Ours is over 150 pages and the last 4 pages include scanned images of some souvenirs we picked up along the way. I'm so happy with the way it turned out!! I certainly recommend this site to you all! Here's a preview.

Passion Flowers

2010-07-29T19:12:00.006-04:00

How beautiful are these creations? An art studio in Ohio designs these beautiful works of art called Passion Flowers, and much much more. Passion Works Studio supports collaborations between artists with and without developmental disabilities. Since 1998 the studio has created one-of-a-kind art pieces and translated artwork into items such as jewelry, ornaments, flowers, and greeting cards.

A colleague of mine shared these with me and said she even knows someone who ordered these flowers for her wedding. What a unique idea! Thanks for sharing Sarah!

Is it back?

2010-07-27T13:20:00.000-04:00

My mom picked this up in the airport today....the late summer 2010 edition of Country Home. Editor's letter has a PS that says look out for the September issue. It's a great issue so fingers crossed. Does this mean some others might be making it back soon too?

I'm not part of the Survey!

2010-07-27T10:04:00.001-04:00

33% of pet owners miss their dog more than their significant other when traveling, according to a recent survey. Gives new meaning to the phrase, "Honey, I'm home!" Ahhh....not me, I promise!!! It's close, but not me!

Patterned Chairs

2010-07-26T07:36:00.001-04:00

I just love patterned chairs...these were gorgeous on Houzz . I know how to waste time on this site!

home design

living room design by los angeles interior designer Vanessa De Vargas

Still like the ones in our house too!

A Focal Point

2010-07-24T17:26:00.003-04:00

Today while shopping at Nadeau, I fell in love with this gorgeous dresser that I have absolutely no need for. If you are in Atlanta and are doing a little girls room or even a room that can handle a pink focal point, you've got to go get this dresser. It's $1400 at the Nadeau location in Marietta. Sadly, I am not purchasing it :(

Perfect Picture

2010-07-21T21:56:00.004-04:00

Found on Kelly + Olive is the perfect handy tool to hang pictures. It’s called the picture placer. All it is is a ruler with a little screw screwed halfway in and the instructions are printed on the placer itself. All you do is slip the head of the screw into your picture hanging wire, and hold the picture by the placer. Making sure it’s centered, place your picture against the wall where you want it to hang. Then press firmly on the center of the picture and the pointy end of the screw, which was facing the wall, creates a little divot in exactly the place your nail should go.

Sail Away with one of These...

2010-07-08T07:09:00.000-04:00

During my last family get-together in May, my very stylish cousin, Elizabeth, had a super cute Sail Cloth Bag by Ella Vickers. I just love all the designs from backpacks to totes and even diaper bags, there is a sail cloth bag to meet all your needs. Our beach vacation is next month....maybe Mr. Townie will read this and get a hint!!!

Which would you choose?

2010-07-07T11:48:00.004-04:00

Feedback please...looking at new lights for the kitchen over the sink. Which would you choose?

IKEA

WISTERIA

BALLARD DESIGNS

Oh, Mr. Darcy

2010-07-06T21:29:00.002-04:00

As a lover of the movie Pride and Prejudice, I love this print on Etsy. AHHHH!

Still not 100%

2010-07-05T20:20:00.003-04:00

I feel good...not in pain...but oh..em..gee...I have a reaction to the gauze, kleenex and/or medical tape and my face is not in any shape to be seen. Hoping to get back to the Dr tomorrow to get this cleared up.

Etsy

Recovering

2010-06-26T16:38:00.001-04:00

In bed recovering from a nasal/sinus surgery. Feeling more uncomfortable rather than pain as my nose continues to bleed onto the gauze above my lip. I'm looking sexy these days..that is for sure. Not so much!! Be back soon.

2010-06-21T21:58:00.004-04:00

Jennie Garth and Peter Facinelli have listed their six-bedroom Colonial-style home in Toluca Lake, California. Yours for only $5.995 mili.

Turn this Room into an Outfit

2010-06-17T12:59:00.003-04:00

Found via Black.White.Yellow is a super fun blog series on Kenzie Poo called Turn this Room into an Outfit.

9 by Design

2010-06-16T08:34:00.001-04:00

Bob and Cortney Novogratz are at it again. After designing their first ever boutique hotel at New Jersey's Bungalow, they now have another one in the works on the Jersey Shore. And, just announced is yet another one to come in gorgeous Punta Mita, Mexico. I can't wait to see what they handpick and come up with next!

Here's some Bungalow pics:

Just because...

2010-06-15T07:56:00.000-04:00

To make you happy on Tuesday! Life is good!

A Must Have

2010-06-14T13:50:00.000-04:00

A "Must Have" for your backyard this summer is a fire pot that offers the sound of fire whipping around and that cool crackle noise. It can really add to the summer BBQ. It works off of gel that can even be used indoors or you can purchase citronella to keep the pesky bugs away. We first saw this at Mark & Kim's house. Their crackle fire pot was really big and I've been on the hunt ever since. The one I ended up buying was smaller than theirs, but had to share with you all because I think it's just a great way to add some ambiance to the outside. This is the one we purchased and if you look closely you can see the fire going.

This website offers a ton of great options in different shapes and sizes. They are very affordable and make really great gifts!

Backyard Phase #...

2010-06-14T09:10:00.005-04:00

I've lost count of the Backyard Phase # that I am posting about here, but we've been busy again in the back. Here are some new photos!

I'm won't jinx myself and say it's the last phase though but sure am glad this got finished before this 100 degree weather we are experiencing these days!

A little more Tori & Dean for ya....

2010-06-14T06:09:00.000-04:00

I just really liked the color scheme of the Tori & Dean Vow Renewal...had to capture it so I won't forget to use this for an upcoming soiree at work.

Orange, black and white invitations with palm fronds were sent out to guests. While there, guests sampled a truffle and sushi bar, as well as short ribs, mashed potatoes and cupcake-shaped lasagna.

Using a yellow, gray and black color scheme, Spelling designed the space (held at a private Beverly Hills home) to look like a living room, complete with rugs, candles and vases full of calla lilies and dahlias.

The couple's four-tiered cake matched the color scheme. McDermott also gave his bride a Neil Lane eternity band worth $15,000.

Spelling displayed pairs of her yellow and orange shoes as art at the reception. "The accessories reflect our passions - Dean loves motorcycles and scuba, and I'm about shoes and jewelry," she tells Us.

A typewriter, where guests composed messages to the pair, sat in front of a wall of family pictures.

Seriously Cool

2010-06-13T20:41:00.005-04:00

Not in the market, but while watching Tori and Dean (yes, I watch Tori and Dean!), their bike strollers caught my eye. Have you ever seen the Taga Carrier? It's seriously cool!

It's a stroller and a bike. Take 20 seconds to watch the video.

Music to my Ears

2010-06-11T11:55:00.002-04:00

If you are in need of a party mix, this could be the solution vs creating one yourself.

Hipster Music has put together a well-curated catalog of songs good for retail environments, some edgy, some tame. Event planners can use the service, too, for party music. Pricing starts at $8 per CD for a minimum of 15 CDs. As always, planners need to pay licensing fees through ASCAP or BMI. The CDs also work well in gift bags.