Two Sides to a Coin and Frisco, Colorado

Growing up your parents’, at least mine, were my parents first and always. My dad and T were stricter than most of my friends parents’ and as a teenager I was pissed. As an adult, even one without a kid, I get it. I couldn’t imagine the feeling of not always being able to protect something that is a part of you. As I have gotten older the line of parent and friend and certainly blurred. On day two of my parents visit, I got to know things about my dad, I never thought I would. As they say, there are two sides to a coin. It may sound weird, but I felt so trusted that he would tell me stories from his college days and early twenties — before I was in this world. It was refreshing to see my dad as not my parent, this person I have for most of my life put on a pedestal, but as a human, who lived a life so different than the one I know him living now. Anyways, enough of that, on to day two of our explorations. Which involved a botched trip to Vail (turned out to be for the best), a reunion of college friends, and exploring two towns west of Denver.

We planned to spend the day visiting Vail and meeting up with my dad’s friend from college. We looked it up the night before and it was around a two hour drive, so my parents arrived early so we could explore Vail first, only for good ole Google Maps to tell us it was gonna be a 3 hour trip one way and were not even gonna arrive on time to meet his friend. As we starting driving the time keeps creeping up and we finally make the call. We end up in Frisco, where we decide to have my dad’s friend meet us and to kill time we grabbed coffee at Abbey’s Coffee. Well I had coffee, my dad and T had hot chocolate. Then we walked to Lake Dillion and took some pictures. I will be honest — these sunglasses are not my favorite — they squeeze my nose too much. But he brand Aire does make some cute options for under $50 dollars.

We grabbed lunch at Ollies Pub and Grub and my dad’s friend and his partner joined us. They were a hoot, and so glad my dad got the opportunity to catch up with him and also I got hear some dirt on my dad’s college days! Let’s just say he can never talk about my speeding — I certainly come by it honestly.

After lunch we headed to Breckenridge, where we took exactly zero photos but had a great time. Watched a small horse race you might have heard of, the Kentucky Derby, which we all picked a horse and one of them won. It wasn’t me — which isn’t surprising. We headed back later that evening and ate at a restaurant close to where I am staying called Blanco. Highly recommend if you are in the area. I took my sister there as well when she came — more on that visit to come.

We called it a day, my dad and T headed back to their hotel and I very quickly went to sleep. Just to prepare for another adventure the following day.

From the City to Nature: Exploring Rocky Mountain National Park

Week one in Denver is in the books. Three days after I arrived my dad and T came to visit. On their first full day here, we ventured up to Rocky Mountain National Park. It was definitely an adventure — mainly because in my attempt to get us into the actual Park — I instead took us to a few stops / trail heads instead. It all worked out, because we got to see a moose, so snow, and lots of laughs and photos. Our first stop was Wild Basin Ranger Station. We got a photo in front of the sign and took a little walk up to a stunning lake.

On our way to our next attempt to get into the park we headed to Longs Peak Ranger Station. Please know as I write this I see how none of these are actual entrances but at the time it seemed right. On our way to Longs Peak we passed Lily Lake. We actually passed it and I turned around in the road. So glad T pushed us to do it, because it was our first animal siting. A deer. Then it started snowing which was my highlight — I am fan of cold and snow. Then we got to a moose living his best life in the lake.

We made it to Long Peaks Ranger Station — elevation 9,405 feet. Finally decided to head down the mountain to Estes Park where after a text to my friend Teal, who used to live in Boulder and was my first tour guide in Rocky Mountain NP years ago. We stopped by the gift shop and I of course got a sticker for my water bottle. Then we made our way through the park, stopping at lots of different points and driving all the way up to Many Parks Curve before the road was closed — note the previously mentioned snow. It was so nice just hanging out with my dad and T. Chatting, taking pictures, and seeing some beautiful snow capped mountains and stunning scenery a quick hour and half drive away from the city of Denver.

Our final destination was Boulder where we grabbed dinner at Sforno Trattoria Romana. My dad, in no shock to anyone, got a steak and potatoes. You can take the man out of the south but the south out of the man. T had spicy pasta, which was so good, but if you do not handle spicy things well – avoid the Penne Arrabbiata. I got the Ravioli di Zucca, which was a butternut squash ravioli in a sage brown butter sauce. HIGHLY. RECOMMEND. Afterward we headed back down the mountain to Denver. My parents dropped me off and took the car, which I rented through Turo, to their hotel. If you haven’t tried Turo, I recommend it. Super easy and a lot of times cheaper than renting a car from the standard Hertz, Enterprise, etc.

I am looking forward to sharing more of our adventures from their visit. And in between I think I might share past trips. I went on a lot in 2022 and would like to have a place to look back on those memories.

Until later — adventure on.

Its Me, The Same, But Also Different

A lot has changed since my last post in 2015. I have changed jobs, hair colors, locations – more on that below. I have changed my outlook on life, my goals – to some degree, and my views. There is so much more but we would be here all night if I listed it all.

I am in my thirties now. I am slightly wiser. I’m single – which the southern born and raised part of me struggles with daily. I am also childless. But I am also living out a dream I had when I was 19. I am getting to travel and explore the US, while working remotely. College me wouldn’t believe it. Because as much as I would have loved to do that, I didn’t believe in myself enough to think it would actually happen. Yet here I am writing this in Denver, Colorado, trying to write a quick catch up on the last 8 years of my life.

I went from Mobile, AL to St. Petersburg, FL and back to Charlotte, NC in July 2016. I made so many memories with some of the best people in and out of Charlotte. I traveled to Thailand, Europe, Canada, NYC, and more. I also kept the same job until August 2021, when after 8.5 years I left the second job of my adult life to start a new adventure. I actually accepted that job while in Ohio for one of my nearest and dearest friend’s birthdays! It was harder to leave than I can put into words. Comfortability and familiarity are VERY. REAL. However, I am so glad I did, because it is what has offered me the opportunity to travel around the US and figure out if I want to live somewhere else.

Now I get to spend 2023 traveling around the US trying to figure out where I want to live. I am also taking this time to learn to be content with myself. Happy alone. I have struggled with that my whole life. I am excited to document the adventure, hoping to showcase the amazingness the US has to offer. Also, insights into me. My brain – could get weird. And the daily work that is learning to love me for me, where I am. Not where I hope to be or want to be, but exactly where I am. How I am.

Excited to have this little space to document it all. Also time travel back to some amazing memories I want to share. So whether no one, everyone, or somewhere in between reads this – I am looking forward to having the memories documented. For myself.

Come along, if you dare, as I explore different cities each month for the rest of 2023.

Oscar Statements

I am such a huge fan of award season. The dresses, the shoes, the makeup and of course the jewelry. This year there were some stunning statement making necklaces. In case you didn’t know I am a lover of a statement necklace. So below I am sharing my favorite from last night’s red carpet.

This necklace is exquisite. I love the length with this plunging neckline. I love that Margot went with an out of the box statement necklace and in my opinion is one of the best dressed on the red carpet. I also love that this tassel necklace isn’t like most others and long. It’s a great take on the trend and hope to see more of this style surface soon.

Aside from the having one of the most dashing husbands on the planet, in my opinion, Behati wore a gorgeous black beaded necklace to the Oscars. Again she or her stylist, whichever, chose the perfect length for this dress. Especially since the dress itself is a stunning masterpiece. She somehow managed to wear a statement necklace and dress and instead of competing they compliment each other. Bravo Behati.

Let me start by saying that I am actually not a fan of this dress. HOWEVER we are talking statement necklaces here and I was seriously green with envy at this stunning beaded piece. I love the hair pulled back and up to show off this serious work of art.

I saved the best for last. Cate Blanchett showed up and wowed at the Oscars last night. A lbd, simple updo and statement necklace all lead to me crowning her the best dressed neck at the Oscars. Seriously a show stopper look.

Which look was your favorite? Are you a jewelry lover like myself? Let me know below.

Images: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4

January Favorites

Can we just say that the month of February is flying by. I mean I was planning to have this post up the first Wednesday of the month but we see how well I did with that. Any who, I am going to post a list of items I loved throughout the previous month. This can range from skin care products to make up to home goods. Along with posting on the first Wednesday of February, I was also going to make this into a video…oh well 0 for 2 this month.

1. During the drier months of the year it is hard for me to find a foundation that provides coverage but also hydrates my skin. The Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua has been by saving grace this winter. It goes on like a dream and creates this beautiful, flawless skin once applied. I wouldn’t recommend this if you have oily skin.

2. Trying to find a dry shampoo that is a triple threat can be a bit difficult. I wanted one that reduced the greasiness without turning my hair white, added volume and smelled good. After some serious searching I found my favorite to be the Detox Dry Shampoo by Drybar. A close second is Clean Freak by It’s Not Your Mothers.

3. If I had to pick one outstanding product the BeautyBlender would be it. I can’t get over how it takes any foundation and lays it on your face like a dream. I was definitely skeptic at first but after just a few days of using this pink sponge I was hooked. So much so I gave some as Christmas presents.

4. I love to have a candle on stand by when I know I am going to have people over and I want my apartment to smell extra nice. Diptyque’s Baies does the job and with style. The black holder is sultry and the smell is divine. It is a win-win in my book.

5. As I mentioned above the drier months are rough on my skin and my summer moisturizer just wasn’t cutting it. Thankfully I stopped by a Kiehls stand and found the holy grail for my skin. The Rosa Arctica Moisturizer is a game changer. It has helped my face not feel tight and dry throughout the day but also doesn’t leave it feeling greasy either.

6. Until about four months ago I avoided eye shadow. Fast forward to now and I can’t get enough. The creamy texture of the eye shadows in this Lorac Pro Palette are insane. They blend like a dream and I can’t speak highly enough about this palette. If you are looking for a good neutral eye shadow palette that can be used day or night, this beauty is your winner.

7. Two words a girl can never go wrong with Jo Malone. I wanted to find a signature scent and something that not everyone was wearing. After smelling the Wood Sage & Sea Salt cologne I was hooked. I purchased the travel size since I knew I wanted to switch it up come Spring time but I love the spicy bits you smell as an after thought.

8. OBSESSED! My skin was so dehydrated this winter. The older I get the worse my skin is getting. I knew I needed to add a face oil in but with the selection where do you go. After some research I landed on Argan Oil. I read so many great things about Josie Maran I knew I had to try the Argan Oil in her line. It can be used on your face, hair, in your bath and even as a body oil. A few drops go a long way and this has definitely made my skin appear more refreshed and hydrated.

40 Days + 40 Nights

First of all, WELCOME to my new little space in the world. The reason why my posts stopped was because I got this sudden urge to hurry the process from Blogger to WordPress along and in the mean time skipped on making sure my posts were going through. Shame on me I know. Well take a look around and let me know what you think. Also, please note this is a work in progress. I am not coder so it will be a learn as I go adventure. Okay no back to the regularly scheduled post.

No this post is not in reference to the movie, although I will say I am sad Josh Hartnett kind of disappeared. I had a serious crush on that guy in middle school. Anyways, this is about what I am giving up and also adding to my life for Lent. I have participated in Lent before, but it has always been in a more selfish manner. Examples, no chocolate, no cursing, no alcohol…that type of thing. Well this year I decided that I wanted to give up something that has created some self doubt in my life and add in some quality time with the big man upstairs.

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I am not going to go into my full blown reasons for this decision or talk about faith right now for a few reasons but the most being I am just not ready. So for now I will tell you what I am giving up and adding.

Starting on Wednesday, February 18th, I will no longer be reading blogs or watching YouTubers. This is not to discourage any of you from this and probably seems hypocritical coming from a blogger. Well you see I am having trouble not focusing on how much better other bloggers are in comparison to myself. I need some time to reflect on myself and my life and realize my journey is unique and amazing in it’s own right. This will free up at least 30 minutes if not an hour a day of free time. In that free time I plan to add bible studying. I have already purchased my books and am excited to see where this journey takes me.

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Do you celebrate Lent? Even if you aren’t Catholic, because I am not. If you do, tell me what you are giving up this year or adding as well!

Nike Necessities

I am alone or are there others who get motivated to workout just by having cute workout gear? I mean there are days I just don’t want to spend the time to workout and then I look at my clothes and think I didn’t buy these to sit in a drawer. 

I have a few favorite places to buy workout gear but one of my absolute tried and true stores in Nike and Nike Factory Outlet. Not only are they stylish, comfortable but they last a long time. I am not getting a dime for writing any of these words, they are my own, I just wanted to get that out there! 🙂 

The other thing I love about these two pieces is also the versatility I get from them. They are great work out pieces but you can go from gym to brunch with the a few sprays of dry shampoo, a hat and sunglasses. 

I will recommend going down in the leggings. I have a few pairs and after my first pair I learned they give and that is the last thing you want while working out. 

I keep my workout gear pretty simple with greys, blues, blacks and whites. However my shoe game I like to step up one or twelve notches.  I love fun colors and designs and I am hoping to scoop up this pair in a few weeks. This pair was a random purchase while at the mall a few months ago and they are SUPER comfortable. 

I have actually worn this top with leggings, boots and a scarf out to dinner and a movie so when I say these pieces have versatility I mean it. I love the off shoulder detail and when it gets a bit warmed a scarf won’t be necessary. 

Just showing you that you can move around in this gear. 

The BEST Chocolate Chip Cookies

So after a title like that I better deliver something pretty spectacular below huh? 

Well I personally think I have. I got this recipe from my friend Christine, mentioned on this blog more than once, a while back. She got the recipe from Annie’s Eats blog. You can find the recipe here. It is my go to for parties, thank yous and when I need a little chocolate in my life. 

I will start by saying this recipe makes a lot of cookies. So when you make then have a plan to take them to a party or give to a few friends, otherwise you might as well sit down with a big glass of milk and enjoy. Every. Last. Crumb. 

The first time I made these the amount of brown sugar caught me a little off guard, but the final product didn’t disappoint so make sure to follow through to the end and I promise you won’t be disappointed. 

A crucial part of this entire recipe is the butter. If it is too hot your cookies will end up more mushy than chewy, but if it’s too cool than your cookies will have too much crunch. I myself have done both of these so I can say from first hand experience the butter is important. My piece of advice. Start with melting the butter and then gather your ingredients and mix them together. Once you get to the butter it should be just the right temperature for your recipe. 

When you start mixing the wet and dry ingredients together you will notice the dough isn’t overly greasy or sticky. This is one of my favorite parts. It is tacky and sticks to itself but you have to kind of press it together. 

The recipe calls for one and a half cups chocolate chips. Feel free to abide by that rule if you deem necessary. I personally am a chocolate fan so I put the whole 11.5oz bag into the mix. 

So this was the last cookie dough ball I made. I kind of got in the rhythm of making them and forgot to snap pictures (oops!). As you can see the dough doesn’t really stick to the bowl much and I had to press those chocolate chips in. That may or may not have something to do with my overuse of chocolate but shhhh that can be our little secret. 

And yes since you asked I had already licked this spoon and I may or may not have eaten this cookie dough ball pre-baked. 

Ingredients:

2 cups + 2 tbsp all purpose flour

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt (I prefer sea salt) 

12 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled until warm

1 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 large egg plus 1 egg yolk

2 tsp vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups (or the whole bag) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions:

– Preheat oven to 325* and adjust racks to upper lower middle slots. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper. Trust me, go the extra step and line your cookie sheets. 

– Mix dry ingredients together in a bowl and then set to the side. 

– By hand (my method) or with an electric mixer combine butter and sugars together until they are combined thoroughly. Next beat in your egg, yolk and vanilla. Finally add your dry ingredients slowly and mix (on low with mixer) until combined. Now it’s time to add the chocolate chips. 

– Start rolling palm sized dough into balls. Grab the dough ball and using your fingertips pull the dough apart into two equal halves. You will lay the dough balls on the lined cookie sheet with the jagged section up. Cooking time is approximately 14-16 minutes. You will rotate the cookie sheets halfway through the cooking time. The edges should be harden but not the centers, they will once out of the oven.

Side note: If you have more than one round of dough balls to cook, make sure to check your second round sooner as they don’t take as long to bake as your first batch. 

Do you have a favorite cookie recipe? If so, let me know what it is. I am always up for trying new recipes. 

Vloggng…Do or Don’t

So until about 4 months ago, I didn’t even know Vlogging was a thing. I know…I know I am so behind the times. Well after a few months I saw the benefits that vlogging can bring to a blog and just to a person’s life in general. Imagine having snippets of your life in video form. It’s pretty awesome in my opinion.

 

I am personally a fan of vlogging because I like the insight it gives me to the blogger/youtuber. Two of my absolute favorite vloggers to watch are Lily Pebbles and Viviana Does Makeup. They are both from the UK and they are both hilarious and serious beauty bloggers to follow.

 

So this leads to me the point of this post…would you watch someone’s vlog? Do you currently? Honestly I think for me, it will be a personal decision but I am always interested in seeing what you guys have to say. So let me know your thoughts and any other good vloggers to follow.

 

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Not that this is at all what my vlogs would look like but I took this video while at the beach with my sister and told her I would post it on here and I keep my word. Also just so you know I had to crop the video to send from my phone since I couldn’t find my card…vlog fail! haha

 

 



His + Her Game Day Wear

Football hasn’t always been in my blood, in fact, growing up I was a HUGE basketball fan. It wasn’t until I went to college that football became such a big part of my life. You see at the University of Georgia, football isn’t just a sport it is a way of life. A weekend in Athens is an experience I believe everyone should have. Saturdays in Athens are not a joke. We arrive early. We arrive rowdy. And we arrive dressed to the nines. So it the last part that I am going to explain a bit further. 

The wonderful group over at Paul Fredrick asked me to put together his and her game day outfits that represent my favorite team. I happily accepted and got to work creating  two dressier game day looks for you guys. I know you are probably thinking. Did she say dress? Yes I did. You see some people think that game day attire is simply shorts or jeans and a jersey BUT in the south we view football as a religion and if you dress up for church then you best believe you dress up for the football game. 

This is such a classic look for guys. I recommend starting your outfit with a dress shirt. Paul Fredrick has a great selection but this red and white striped shirt was my favorite. Then you move to selecting your bowtie. Of course you can wear a tie but I personally prefer a gentleman in a bowtie. This black and white polka dot bowtie was the perfection addition to the striped shirt. Pants are a bit easier as you just need a good pair of black pants however I will say PLEASE get flat front ones. No one likes a pleat. This pair of flat front black pants is a great staple to have in any wardrobe. The finish touch will the be these black winged oxfords which add an extra dash of sophistication to the outfit.

This is definitely an outfit I would gladly wear on game day. Sometimes red can be a hard color to pull off (on my skin it definitely is) so I opt for items that are black with red details. This black and red plaid dress is fashionable and functional, it’s wool, so you will stay warm in the colder months or at the bowl game (God willing we go to one every year). Next I add this simple black turtleneck underneath the dress. Tights are must to keep your legs warm and these Spanx tights will be sure to hold you in, even after one or two or more beers. A dash of gold brings some add luxe to this outfit. This Kate Spade link necklace is such a good staple piece. These booties are extra comfortable, which you will need, after hours of standing on your feet. If you are from anywhere other than the south, you are probably thinking HEELS?? Is she crazy? Well I and some 30, 000 other girls are who decide fashion is a must on Saturdays. Thankfully these Cole Haan booties are extra forgiving on your feet. The last item is this classic black cross body bag from Tory Burch. Don’t get me wrong I love a big bag, like most women, but carrying around my totes for 10+ hours is a no for me. This bag will fit everything you need for the day and night. 

Let me know what you guys wear or wore to your game days. Also let me know who your favorite football team is. No matter if it is NFL or NCAA, just do a shout out below. 

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