summer

A Short Trip to Charleston

5 September, 2016

A couple of weeks ago David and I slipped away for three days and two nights in one of our favorite cities. We’ve been so busy lately and David has had so little time off from the store that the need for a break, even a short one, was felt deep in our bones. I’m grateful we had the opportunity to take a trip and that my father-in-law is always willing to take care of our dogs while we’re away. We stayed outside the city at the most beautiful inn (which will get its own post on Wednesday) for the second time and drove in to Charleston for a little fun. I always love exploring Charleston, stopping in our favorite shops, the incredible food and beautiful scenery, the comforting and quiet pace of the community. It’s nice to visit someplace once or twice a year and still feel like a regular–to have your go-spots, to be remembered by shop owners who are happy to have conversations that make you feel warm and welcome, to simply sit and read while sipping a cocktail or coffee without that pressure to do anything more. It feels just like home. Next summer we hope to stay longer and make it to the beach. Though it’s a long way off, with fall just around the corner, I’m excited by the thought of another sunny, relaxing trip. I didn’t take as many photos as I wanted to, but here are a few snaps from our wanderings.

Style

The Summer of the Black Dress

15 August, 2016

My philosophy when it comes to getting dressed during the summer is, “the easier, the better.” I’ve always been a fan of one-pieces, particularly the comfort and ease of a black dress. In my case, loose fitting and lately more of a midi length. It’s my signature, what I feel most confident in, and the one thing I don’t think I can have too many of. I’ve been reaching for this beautiful woven cotton number by UZI again and again these last several months. I wear it all the time–to church, art shows, the grocery store, on vacation, anywhere. The dress is functional thanks to its pockets and breathable shape but not without interest in the form of the loveliest draped neckline. This setting from a recent trip (more on that soon!) made it hard not to snap a few photos of one of my favorite pieces in action. Another I added to my closet this season is the Twist Tee Dress by Objects Without Meaning, purchased via Garmentory for a steal. Temperatures won’t start cooling down here for a long while but I’m looking forward to wearing the versatile and always polished black dresses I’ve been collecting well into the fall season.

dress// UZI, boots// vintage, clutch// Baggu

Living + Decor

Summer Ready

23 June, 2016

Now that the new season is here I’m looking forward to getting out and having some fun despite the triple digit temperatures we’re already having. Here are a few pretty things to go along with my plans for a well-spent summer.

// A blanket for picnics in the shade and jazz in the park.
// I didn’t go swimming once last year so my goal is to correct that this summer. I’d love to sport this swimsuit for dips in the pool and hopefully a trip to the beach.
// David and some friends started a chess club at our bookstore and it’s been fun to watch everyone play. I’m interested in learning how, with a beautiful and minimal chess set, of course.
// The perfect summer tee.
// A good book for lazy days and nights.
// Versatile and comfortable woven shoes for those hot days I don’t want to think too hard about what to wear.
// Statement earrings to elevate all the easy summer dresses I’ve been wearing.
// I’ve always been convinced I’m not a hat person, but this beauty from Brookes Boswell has me changing my tune.
// The moisturizer to end all moisturizers. This one has been doing wonders for my skin (I use it as both a moisturizer and a cleanser) and I plan to keep it in my small but powerful arsenal for a subtle summer glow.

Style

Pretend Shopping

7 September, 2015

Cheers to the final days of summer.

Acne Studios tee | Kiki Koyote necklace | Dusen Dusen sunglasses
Sylvain le Hen hair pin | MM6 by Maison Martin Margiela denim | Everlane shoes

Life

Virginia Vacation

31 August, 2015

David and I got back from our quick trip to Virginia on Friday. The family squeezed into a cabin in Gordonsville, plus we took a day trip to Charlottesville and stopped through Richmond on the way home. The consensus on Virginia is that we definitely want to go back soon. Family and friends live so close by which makes it the ideal getaway. The vacation wasn’t as restful as we imagined–that’s what we get for trying to cram in so many fun things–and pretty far from actual mountains, but we’re thankful nonetheless.

It’s been years since we were all under the same roof and it was so good to spend time together (though, I admit, stressful at times for an introvert like me)–talking and goofing off or just sitting together reading. Sometimes you don’t realize how much you miss people until they’re right in front of you, reminding you why you love them in the first place.

I spent Saturday back at home cuddling my dogs and cleaning up the mounds of dog hair that accumulated while we were away, and in the evening we jumped right back into things by going to see a friend in a play at the local university. I can’t believe August and summer are nearly over and we’re already approaching my favorite time of the year. There’s been a hint of crisp coolness in the air and it’s getting me excited about fall, festivals, and warm fires. I’m hoping fall brings with it a slower pace and more opportunities to do what I love simply because I love it–for myself.

Life

Morning Off No.1

13 August, 2015

10:40am// books and espresso goodness at Metro
11:39am// thrifted the perfect rocker and brought it home (to be moved again!)
1:11pm// scrolling through the tap selections at Hive for an afternoon beer
1:27pm// the perfect lunch: delicious grilled cheese sandwich and kale salad
not shown: King of Pops from Sweetsticks for dessert!

I thought this would be a fun series to start–a way to appreciate even more the small outings David and I are blessed to have with each other. I woke up feeling terrible: tired and groggy, a little down, and still in pain from my latest kidney episode. I threw on the same clothes I wore yesterday and made my way out the door reluctantly, but a cheerful husband and some time away from the house, doing all the things we normally do, brightened my spirit tremendously. The weekend is work, work, work as we finish up our move so I’m extra grateful for the laid back wandering we were able to do this morning.

Life

Goodbye July

5 August, 2015

I meant to post this days ago but time got away from me. Between surgery recovery and the hustle and bustle of the business July flew by. Having a million things to do is the new normal, obviously. We’re being pulled in so many different directions and should probably stop being surprised by it. That’s what happens when you’re trying to grow your business and the folks in your life keep spreading out. We had a fast paced month of work and play: chasing a stunning lighting storm, visiting nieces, going away parties, book signings, packing, spending time with friends (more than usual, I’m happy to say!). I hate that most of my posts are “catch up” posts but that’s the season we’re in and that’s okay. I had intentions of reflecting on a year of blogging in July but found no time for that either. Long story short: it’s been good for me.

The highlight of the month was definitely our trip to Atlanta to visit with my husband’s nieces. Ashley and her family live in Decatur and Emily and her boyfriend Ben were visiting from Paris (we had some extra time with Emily and Ben here, too, and it was so sweet). They’re such strong, kind, intelligent, beautiful young women and I’m so thankful to have them in my life. I hardly took any photos so these are mostly people walking and standing around petting a cat. It was so worthwhile. I was especially thrilled to have an experience in Atlanta that didn’t send me home exhausted and anxious. We visited areas I’d never been before and I felt a bit more fond of the city. It helps to truly be visiting instead of running around, constrained by time, trying to get errands taken care of. I’m looking forward to the next trip.

Art + Design

A Few Things

16 July, 2015

// Summer heat requires lots and lots of popsicles. It’s the perfect treat and just a few minutes from our house. Chocolate sea salt might be my new favorite.

// The dining room table is a mess but it’s worth it to be creating. More on this later.

// David and I are furiously reading Go Set a Watchman. At least once a week we end up sitting outside our favorite downtown spot to drink and read, enjoying each other’s company even in silence. It’s my preferred way to end the day.

Style