Thursday, July 19, 2012

Team U.S.A.

As if you need a reminder, but the Summer Olympics begin next Friday!  Scott kindly reminded today (and just about everyday -- he may be the most excited American in the country) that opening ceremonies are just over a week away.  And you bet we'll be watching.


Since the Summer Olympics only happen ever four years, it's a great reason to celebrate!  Putting a small get together is easy - especially since it's still July and you can pull back out your 4th of July decorations.  You can also DIY any of these.  Cover your table with a red or blue tablecloth and use some white serving ware and you'll be in the Olympic spirit in no time:



Sources:
Sparkly Stars via Glitter Guide
Pom-Pom Centerpieces via Martha Stewart
Carnation Balls via Country Living
Striped Straws for Cocktails via CraftsbyJilly
Food Tents via Wait Till Your Father Gets Home




Food and drinks are a must.  This get together is another perfect time to grill some hot dogs and hamburgers.  But don't forget the best part -- cocktails and dessert:



Sources:
Layered Drinks via She Knows
Patriotic Margaritas via Betty Crocker
White Sangria via Punch Bowl
Red, White and Blue Strawberries via Tip Junkie
Flag Cookies via Too Stinkin Cute
Jello Shooters via Craftsaholics Anonymous 




I'm most looking forward to the Swimming, Diving, Synchronized Swimming and Gymnastics (I may or may not have shed a tear during the gym trials...) 


Let's go Team USA!


Tuesday, July 17, 2012

I'm dreaming....

This past weekend, my parents came to visit.  And we had a BLAST!


One night, after a bottle...or three...of wine, I couldn't help but think of my trip to Italy five years ago.  It was absolutely one of the most magical places I have ever seen.  So much history took place there -- and the architecture was absolutely magnificent (and older than our own country which just blew my mind!)


That trip to Italy only lasted a week.  While it was one of the best weeks I've ever had, there is still so much I want to go back and see--mostly some Italian vineyards and the Italian coast.


Since it's summertime, beach photos are all over Pinterest.  But it's the Italian ones that keep catching my eye.  Enjoy!  I also threw in some of my own from my study abroad trip.  Brittany may hurt me for posting some of these - HA!


Saving up money for an Italian vacation in the next couple of years.  Until then, I'll continue to daydream about Italian vineyards and beaches.  Maybe this will inspire a little get together to bring some Italy to Texas...



 *via The Quirky Traveler*
*via Food and Wine Travel* 
photo by Greg Gibb* 

me and B in Siena
me and B at Pisa


*photo by Amanda*
me and B in Vactican City

*photo by Scotty Graham*

Monday, July 16, 2012

Nicely Noted

....and I'm back!


After reading blogs for the last couple of years, I finally decided to take the leap and start a blog...again.


Not sure what direction to head, but at least it will be fun figuring it out.


I decided today would be the day to start again--probably because I came across this on Camille Styles' blog yesterday and I just had to share it with the world.


How GENIUS is Nicely Noted??  Who wouldn't want to receive letterpress notecards--with stamps!--every month?  The art of handwritten letters seems to be dying among all the new technology, but what a fun way to start bringing it back!  There's nothing better than sending a spontaneous handwritten letter.  It's thoughtful and personal--and a simple way to brighten someone's day.


My love for this site may possibly have something to do with my obsession with all things paper and stationery.  I mean, come on...just look at these cards!







But now I know what to request as a birthday gift...


*photos by Kate Lesueur*