The Great Bourbon Heist

So, those of you attuned to the world of bourbon may have already heard this story. For those of you who are not, I’ll provide a little background.

In the bourbon industry, there are several spirits from which to choose. Many are distilled in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. We’re pretty famous for it, in fact. One bourbon, in particular, though, is considered the Holy Grail among bourbons: Old Rip Van Winkle. (We call it Pappy around here.)

Because of this distinction, Pappy is very hard to come by. And it's looking to be even more elusive because a large batch has disappeared. It recently was discovered that 200 bottles of Pappy went missing from Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Ky. That’s about $26,000 worth of bourbon. Two hundred bottles may not sound like much, but considering how small a batch of Pappy is made each year - only about 6,000 to 7,000 9-liter cases are distributed annually- that's a big portion. In comparison, Jim Beam sells about 7 million cases a year.

The thought is that it’s an inside job and that the bottles were smuggled out over a period of time, because Pappy 23-year is said to be under lock-and-key in a special area of the warehouse.

Now, the cynic in me first thought it was part of a publicity stunt because the revelation of the theft, and media coverage of it, happened about the same time a new merchandise venture, Pappy & Co., was launched by Van Winkle descendants Louise Van Winkle Breen (below) and her siblings. Her father, Julian, is the head of the family business. 

In addition to the new line of merchandise, the news of the heist also happened right before the launch party for Pappy & Co. at Foxhollow Farm outside of Louisville. But, apparently that's not the case and I need to keep my cynicism in check. The police are investigating and are said to have a "person of interest" in their sights. Stay tuned.

A local eatery is capitalizing on the media hoopla by hosting a five-course, "Stop the Panic" meal featuring flights of Pappy. The meal ends with a glass of 23-year Pappy, perhaps the best of the best. And, yes, I have had a glass of Pappy, the 20-year variety. Yes, it's a mighty-fine bourbon. Would I pay for a $50 glass of 23-year Pappy at the Brown Hotel in Louisville? Uh, no. But, there are plenty who would.

Have you ever tried Pappy Van Winkle? If so, what do you think? Worth the price? 

Have a terrific Tuesday, friends!

Images from Food Republic and Style Blueprint Louisville

And the new Christian Grey is...

So, after the debacle with actor Charlie Hunnum pulling out of the screen version of "Fifty Shades of Grey," a new actor has been cast as Christian Grey. He is:

Irish actor and model Jamie Dornan. Yeah, I can live with this. 

When Hunnum was originally cast, I, like many others, was greatly disappointed. Then he dropped out of the film. In interviews, he's said that his current acting schedule and some family commitments forced him to back out of the role. Hmm. That could be true. Or the fact that fans of the series of books were so vocal over their dislike of the casting of Hunnam that he was pulled from the film. You wonder if the studio heads were concerned how his involvement would impact ticket sales. 

So, now it's Dornan alongside actress Dakota Johnson. Not thrilled with that choice, either, but she was pretty good in "The Social Network," so we'll see.

And, yes, I hang my head in shame that I've even read the "Fifty Shades" trilogy. The writing was less-than-stellar, to say the least. But, as many have said, it's not read because it's a great work of literature. 

So, for those of you who have read the book(s), what do you think about the casting of Mr. Dornan?

Saving Mr. Banks

Can you believe it's been 50 years since the release of Disney's "Mary Poppins?" How I love this film. One of my all-time favorites. 

And coming in December is "Saving Mr. Banks," about how the beloved children's novel by P.L. Travers was brought to the big screen. Emma Thompson plays Travers and Tom Hanks plays Walt Disney. There's a wonderful supporting cast that includes Colin Farrell, Paul Giamatti, Rachel Griffiths and more. (I love the shadows in the above poster.)

British actress Victoria Summer plays Julie Andrews in the film. (I think she's adorable. I'm getting closer and closer to this length of hair!) If you recall, Julie Andrews won the Oscar for her role as Mary Poppins. 

So, I can't wait for the holiday season and to catch what is already being call a lovely film about another lovely, endearing classic. 

Images from Disney and IMBD

Always treat yourself to something fabulous

I needed a little "fabulous" this morning, so here's a touch of it. 

Another way I like to add some fabulous to my life is by treating myself to a well-deserved gift. If you recall, for my 40th birthday, I gave myself a much-longed for David Yurman ring. Then, when I completed chemo, I treated myself to another much-wanted item: a classic tank watch. 

This puppy will never go out of style. Love it!

I'm thinking that when I complete radiation - which will mark an end to the year-of-cancer, that I need to celebrate that momentous occasion as well. Hmm, diamond earrings? A car? No, I won't go that extravagant, but there will be quite the celebration. One of my girlfriends, who also had a tough 2013, agrees that we need to have a New Year's Eve party to end all parties. 

I think Holly Golightly would agree. 

P.S. - Don't think that you need to spend a mint to treat yourself to a well-deserved gift. Even if it's a nap after a long day, a moment in the sun or curling up with a good book, take the time to take care of you. In the words of Donna and Tom from Parks and Recreation, "Treat Yo' Self!"

Image property of A Place to Dwell Blogspot; film image from "Breakfast at Tiffany's

The shoes say it all

I TOTALLY think I deserve this pair of Stubbs & Wootton velvet slippers, which cleverly displays my retort to cancer:

A highly unlikely purchase, given that these bad boys cost $400, but a girl can dream.

Happy Monday, friends! 


Image from Stubbs & Wooten. 

See Blue Day

Happy Friday, friends!

For those of you lucky enough to live in or near the Bluegrass state, today is See Blue Day at Keeneland Race Course. 

The fall meet is underway and each year, a day is set aside to honor our flagship university - and my alma mater - the University of Kentucky. Attendees are encouraged to wear Kentucky blue and enjoy a day of tailgating on the hill, live music, bourbon and good southern food. Oh, yeah, and placing a bet or two on the ponies. Then tomorrow, UK plays Alabama at Commonwealth Stadium, so if you want to enjoy a day at the races, do so, then hop a shuttle to the game. (Fingers crossed that my Cats won't be completely rolled over by the Tide.)

What are your plans for this gorgeous fall weekend? 

Image from Keeneland's Facebook page.

Break out the boots

We're heading into my favorite time of year: autumn.

This means, it's time to start sporting those boots. And if it's still a bit too warm to wear tights or stockings with your boots, consider these adorable boot socks. How cute are these?? 

Boot socks are available at the Urban Farmhouse Market in Louisville, but I'm sure if you did an online search, you could find other retailers in your area. 


Health update: Thanks again for your kind words when I wrote about my breast cancer diagnosis. Now that I have chemo and surgery behind me, I have one last stretch of treatment ahead, which is radiation. I had my "markings" done last week, along with a CT scan, to line up where the radiation will target my chest wall. So, just waiting to find out when I start. It'll be six weeks, Monday through Friday. I will be so happy to enter the holiday season with no cancer treatments on my plate. 

And, my hair is growing in nicely. In fact, I had a visit with my stylist last week to color it a warm brown. It was coming in very dark with touches of gray and I just couldn't have that!

Have a terrific Tuesday, friends!

Fall Wardrobe Wish List

Oh, Emerson Fry, how I adore your designs. This outfit is on my wish list - from the coat to the fabulous shoes. I am so ready for sweater weather! The heat index is going to hover around 100 in these parts today. But, by the weekend, there will be a 30+ drop in temperature. Can't. Wait.

P.S. - Thank you, friends, from the bottom of my heart for all of the wonderful comments you left for me in my last post. I so appreciate your kind words of support!

Image from Emerson Fry, via Facebook

Best. News. Ever.

Hi, friends!

I know it's been a while since I've blogged, but you're well aware of what's been going on in my life. So, here's a breakdown of recent events.

I finished chemo July 5. I was so happy to receive word that I was finished with that process. Next step, surgery. So, on Aug. 13, I had a double mastectomy with expanders for reconstruction. Let me tell you, that was a doozy of an operation to undergo. I was in the hospital for two days and then spent some time recovering at my parents.

Then the news yesterday that I've been waiting to hear since my diagnosis: NO MORE CANCER!!! That's right, my pathology report revealed that the cancer is no longer in my body. I can't tell you how blessed I feel. I had my follow-up with my plastic surgeon today and he removed the drains, which meant that I could return to my house and gain a little more independence.

For the next few weeks I'll visit the plastic surgeon for check-ups and the "fill" process. Dr. D. says he's going to make me perky! Seriously, if I have to go to hell and back, I'm going to get a nice set of "girls" out of it! I still have to face radiation, but that's down the road. I have plenty of healing to do from the surgery. It's just nice to have a bit of a break between procedures.

Thanks to all of you who have wished me well, sent prayers and notes of encouragement. It means the world to me.

Happy Wednesday!!

Remember: Good things are to come

Happy Friday, friends!

Thought of the Day...

To know what is right and not do it is the worst cowardice.

~Confucius

Happy 4th of July!

Happy soon-to-be Independence Day, friends! How will you celebrate this festive holiday? A day at the pool and fireworks at dark? A barbecue with family and friends?

Unfortunately, it looks like we're going to have a soggy 4th in these parts, but that won't stop us from eating in traditional 4th of July fashion!

I love this image of Miss E. from a past Fourth of July. Our old neighborhood used to have a bike parade followed by snacks on Fourth of July morning.

Have a safe and fun Independence Day!

Images from Martha Stewart Living and A Place to Dwell blog (property of)

Dare I say it? A mini van?

Remember these guys from the "Swagger Wagon" video? A satiric rap featuring hipster parents trying to make mini vans look cool. Is that possible?

Mmm, not according to this bovine.

As much as I enjoy driving my Audi wagon, it lacks the backseat leg room for growing kids. And, as they get older and want to do more things with friends, we're limited on how many kiddos we can cram fit in the car. So, I'm seriously considering a mini van.

Never had I thought I would utter those words, but when you're a mom of two active - and quickly growing - kids, at some point, it crosses your mind.

So, dear friends, I'm reaching out to you for opinions on mini vans and other SUVs. Did you trade in a less practical car for a mini van? Were you happy with your decision? If not a mini van, did you buy a larger vehicle that can transport four or more passengers in the back seat area? No, I'm not giving birth to more children. But, I recently wanted to take my kids and two of their friends to a movie. Alas, I didn't have enough room because no one was old enough to sit in the front seat, and I couldn't fit all four in the back.

Please share your thoughts on this topic - would love to hear it!

Happy Tuesday, friends!

Images from Are You Finished Yet? blog

Summertime at the Pool

In the words of Liz Lemon, "I want to go to there."

Have you had time to lounge at the pool this summer? I've only been twice, compared to last summer when we basically lived at the pool; of course, things are very different this year. Because of the chemo medication I'm on, I can't get a lot of sun exposure, although I basked in it this past Saturday. Probably too much, but it was wonderful. We've joined a new pool and the kids are loving it because so many of their friends go there. They're not doing swim team this year (praise be to God), so it's nice to just go to the pool for fun and not have to endure an all-day sweat-fest that is a swim meet.

Happy Monday, friends!

Photo by Perry Guillot, via Tory Burch's blog

Turning 40...

Amen!

Image from someecards

Run!

Today is National Running Day (thanks for the reminder from the fab ladies at a Another Mother Runner). Before my diagnosis, I ran a lot more. These days, I walk around the neighborhood or at a local park when I can. Sometimes briskly, sometimes slowly. Glad I can get out there, though, no matter what the pace.

For those of you who can run, though, get out there and do it! Stretch those legs, feel the cool breeze on your limbs and the sun on your face. If you have that ability, don't waste it for one second!

Happy Wednesday!

Image from Another Mother Runner Facebook page

A Gift to Myself

So, as many of you know, I hit the big 4-0 this month (next Monday to be exact). So, as an early birthday present to myself, I purchased something I've wanted for a very long time. And given what's happened over the last year, I felt it was well-deserved!

I have always loved David Yurman jewelry and finally bought one of his rings.

Did you ever invest in a special birthday present for yourself? If so, what was it?

Happy Monday, friends!

Image property of A Place to Dwell blog

The Death of Volvo??

Saw an interesting article in AdWeek which noted the ten brands that are predicted to die within the next year. One shocked me: the Volvo. I can’t imagine not having this staple of suburban safety, the fridge-like box-on-wheels no longer on the roads, or at least no longer available at dealerships.

Another prediction is that Martha Stewart Living magazine will fold. Hmm, no more pages full of Martha perfection?

What are your thoughts on the top 10? Any others you see falling by the wayside in coming years?

Images from basiclabelsweden.blogspot.it and Martha Stewart Living, via Pinterest

Health, Horses, Lotto & Southern Gents

Hi, friends. Sorry it's been a bit since I posted, but this last round of chemo really kicked my butt. Hate to admit it, but it did. Luckily, this was the last of the super-harsh stuff. Next week I begin a weekly regimen of chemo that's supposedly a little more gentle on my system. Fingers crossed that's true. It'll go for 12 weeks. While that seems like such a long time, it's amazing to think how much has already taken place.

In other news, this Saturday is the Preakness Stakes, so I'm hoping that our Kentucky Derby-winner, Orb, will claim the second jewel of the Triple Crown. Orb's trainer is Shug McGaughey, a Lexington son who is much admired in the horse industry. Orb, bring home that trophy!

So, in a about three weeks, I turn 40. The plans I had for a fun weekend in Charleston, S.C. have been slightly altered since my cancer diagnosis. So, the lovely crowd of ladies with whom I had hoped to escape to South Carolina are coming to Louisville to help me celebrate. Can't wait! 

What do I want for my birthday? Well, first and foremost, a clean bill of health. But, in case the birthday angels are listening, perhaps a winning ticket in the Powerball lottery this Saturday, too? The prize now stands at $475 million. I don't have to win the ENTIRE thing, but a portion would be nice. Believe me, if I won, not only would I take care of my family, but a huge chunk of it would go to cancer research and helping families who are battling cancer. I'm not just saying this; completely serious. And I would hope that anyone else who wins the lottery would consider the same altruism with their winnings. Don't blow it at the river boat casino, folks.

What else? Oh, yeah, a good southern gentleman to sweep me off my feet. Think I could find one? If you know of a good catch, friends, send him my way. I'm not desperate or anything. Just think I deserve a good guy. ;)

It's almost the weekend, friends. Take it easy and enjoy the time off!

Image salon.com, keepcalmstudio.com and Pinterst

The Next Round

My next chemo treatment is this Thursday. Bring it.

Happy Derby!

Happy Derby, friends!

It's been a festive two weeks in my hometown, which will culminate in the Run for the Roses tomorrow.

Yesterday was the Pegasus Parade, a big Kentucky Derby Festival event that marches down Broadway in downtown Louisville. It's broadcast on our local NBC affiliate and about 400,000 people were said to be in attendance. As I mentioned earlier, my daughter is a handmaiden to the 2013 Derby Queen and her court. She had so much fun making appearances at the various events, including riding on the queen's float in Thursday's parade.

Here she is with one of the two young men who served as a page to the court. (These boys are troopers for donning a tuxedo and wearing a pageant-like sash to these events. I'm sure they were more than ready to throw on shorts and a T-shirt afterward!)

Today is another big day at the races, the Kentucky Oaks, which is the running of the fillies.

Over the last few years, Oaks Day has also become a special time to celebrate breast cancer survivors and attendees are encouraged to wear pink to observe this.

And before the running of the Kentucky Oaks, there is a "Survivors' Parade," in which women who have fought breast cancer march on the track and are honored with great fanfare.

It's a very moving sight and I look forward to cheering these women on today. Perhaps next year I'll have the chance to march alongside my "sista survivors!"

If you get a chance tomorrow, be sure to tune into the Derby, raise a mint julep and join us in singing "My Old Kentucky Home." Hope you have a winner!

Images from Churchill Downs, Southern Living and LuluLemon Louisville, Facebook page.

Big Weekend

This past weekend was full of pomp and circumstance for one eight-year old in my life. Shew - what a weekend!

Friday was the Fillies Derby Ball which kicks off the Kentucky Derby Festival in Louisville. The Derby Queen and her royal court are presented at the event. The queen and her court serve as ambassadors for the city leading up to the Kentucky Derby. If you catch a glimpse of any Derby coverage, you may see the lovely ladies.

My daughter had the honor of being one of two handmaidens this year and had the time of her young life. She will also make other appearances at Derby Festival events, including riding on the queen's float in the Pegasus Parade on May 2, just two days before the Derby. 

 

I wasn't going to let silly ol' cancer stop me from staying out late and joining my girl at the ball.

Here's Miss E on the big screen of the ball room with the newly crowned queen, Cameryn Jones. Miss Jones is a senior at the University of Kentucky.

I even managed to get a dance in, although I was a tad winded afterward! Shew! Meanwhile, Miss E. kept spinning like a top all over the room. At one point she ran up to me and said, "I met the mayor!" At another point, she was posing with last year's queen as three TV stations and dozens of cameras shot footage. Yeah, it'll be a while before she climbs down from cloud nine.

Sunday was Miss E.'s First Communion, another big milestone. I was so proud of her that day and found myself getting teary-eyed as she processed in with her classmates in their white dresses and suits.



Happy Monday, friends! Hope you have a wonderful week.

Images property of JMW A Place to Dwell blog

God Bless Martin

Yesterday's senseless tragedy in Boston is weighing heavy on my mind this morning. Little eight-year old Martin Richard was cheering on his dad in the Boston Marathon when an explosion took his young life.

This photo of Martin is featured on CNN.com today. My daughter is Martin's age and she will be making her First Communion this Sunday. It appears that Martin was celebrating his First Communion in this photo, too. Martin's little sister is close in age to my son. She lost her leg in the explosion. Their mother had to have brain surgery.

Our prayers are with the Richard family and all of those impacted by this terrible event.

Image from cnn.com

Where are your manners?

First of all, congrats to the Louisville Cardinals for winning the NCAA championship last night. While I'm by no means a fan, I am glad that the championship trophy remains in Kentucky, since my Wildcats won it last year. We'll let little brother have it for a bit. Looking forward to kicking your butts next year, guys! And congrats to Louisville's women's team who will play UConn for the championship tonight. Bring it home, ladies!

Okay, quick gripe. Not that I'm old, but I've noticed a younger set of employees in my office building over the last several months. That's to be expected. I've been with my company for close to 12 years, so new people are going to join the ranks. That doesn't bother me at all. But something that does perturb me is the young 20-something guys who walk right in front of me onto the elevator or into the building. They don't hold the door for me or any other female in line. It's all about them. The just forge ahead with their earbuds, backpacks and stupid peg leg pants and plaid shirts. Forget everybody else.

Holding the door for someone is not an archaic practice. It's just good manners.

Where were you raised?? Not that I'm Super Mom, but I've been working with my son on this since he could walk. He's 5 1/2 , but when we approach an elevator or door where other people are entering or exiting and he starts to bolt forward, my hand is gently - yet firmly- clasped around the back of his neck to hold him in place. It's right up there with "Please and thank you," and "Yes, 'mam," and "No, sir." It's manners 101, people. And not just in the South. EVERYWHERE. He's quickly learning and I'm proud of that fact.

When I see this behavior, a quote from "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" all-too-often comes to mind, "I weep for the future."

Have you experienced this of late? Do you work with your kids on holding doors and allowing others to go first?

Image from Chronicles of Times

Cheers to a Colorful Life

"That's what life is all about: Let's have a party. Let's have it tonight."

-- Lilly Pulitzer

Yesterday the fashion world lost an icon with the passing of Lilly Pulitzer Rousseau. I'm sure the flags are flying at half-mast at the headquarters in Pennsylvania, also known as the "Pink Palace," as well as in Lilly's hometown of Palm Beach.

Many of us in Blogland are Lilly devotees. You know I am just in looking at my blog banner! With the design of a basic shift dress in a bright floral pattern, she managed to create a style that's become synonymous with summer casual chic. When someone says, "Just wear your Lilly," you know exactly the dress code.

In honor of Lilly, let's break out the bright colors over the next several days and salute one of our favorite style icons. We should all live with that much color in our lives!

Image from International Business Times

Got Derby Fashion?

Well, friends, Derby is one month away. This means Louisville is going to be rockin' pretty soon with tons of activities leading up to the Run for the Roses. Alas, I won't be going to the Derby this year, but it's been fun to spot some frocks that would be FABULOUS for the track.

ADORE this dress! I'm a big believer in that you get the dress first, then shop for the hat. Others feel differently, but it's much easier to tailor your chapeau to the colors of your outfit. The dress above, as well as the two that follow, were recently featured in one of my favorite online style blogs, Style Blueprint Louisville.

I will be attending a gala, though, leading up to Derby. At least I hope I will, as long as I'm not too worn out from my treatments. My daughter, Miss E., is one of two little girls who will serve as handmaidens to the Kentucky Derby Festival Queen and Princess court. There's an organization here in town known as The Fillies, that has a long-standing history of volunteer service related to the Derby Festival. (Her grandmother is a member and threw her name into the hat as a potential handmaiden.) Their biggest event, the Fillies Derby Ball, is April 19. Miss E. will wear a grand white dress and sit with the royal court throughout the evening. She will also ride on a float in the Pegasus Parade, which is two days before Derby. Given everything that has happened within the last year, I'm so happy that she'll have this opportunity.

The Sunday after the ball is also Miss E.'s First Communion, so a weekend full of white dresses and big events! I'll be sure to share photos down the road.

TGIF, friends. TGIF.

Images from Style Blueprint Louisville

Crocodile Fashion

How flippin' cute are these Newport Croc Navajo sandals from Jack Rogers?? I think I need a pair of the dark brown for summer. I love my gold ones and can't wait until warmer weather where I can really play up accessories!

What's on your covet list for spring and summer fashion?

Images from Jack Rogers

Thank You

Thanks to everyone for your words of support and many prayers. I received good news last  week - all of my scans came back clear - the cancer has not spread anywhere else. Yay!!

Of course, my new headshots for work arrived today. Soon I won't have this head of hair. Oh, well. I'll adjust.

Chemo starts this Thursday. I'll have two different sessions of treatments over the next five months. Followed by surgery, then radiation. Whew.

Last Friday I went wig shopping with a good friend of mine. I became very emotional when I walked in the store, but everyone put me at ease. I couldn't get over how real wigs look these days! I also bought a pretty cotton scarf that will be perfect for warm summer days. I will definitely be donning that with a big straw hat at the pool this summer!

Happy Monday, friends. Have a wonderful day!

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."  Jeremiah 29:11

Image by Nick Bonura Photography - all rights reserved

The Latest

Hey, friends!

Sorry it's been a long time since I've checked in, but, well, there have been many changes in my life, to say the least.

I tend to be a very private person and I don't often share too much. But, given what I'm experiencing, and knowing that many others may be dealing with this, well, I may as well put it out there.

First of all, Hubby and I are no longer together. Our divorce was finalized last month. Yes, hard to believe. I now live in a new house and I'm starting over. Crazy, scary, weird.

These little guys are getting me through it:

Now, here's the kicker. And when I share this with you, I'm not asking for pity. I just want to tell you the truth. I learned the other day that I have breast cancer. If you recall from a few months ago, I had a scare after finding a lump in my breast, but the results were benign. Well, another one turned up during a follow-up visit and this time around I wasn't so lucky. So, I soon face chemo, mastectomy and radiation. Because of my age - 39 - they want to be aggressive and think the cancer I have will respond to this plan. Praying that will be the case.

So, that's why I haven't been posting much in the past few months and why I likely won't post frequently in the coming months. Again, I don't want for you to feel sorry for me. I am determined to beat this. I've joked with friends that I'm going to make cancer my bitch! Yeah, I said it! All I ask for are prayers and positive thoughts. It's going to be a tough journey, but I will make it through it and, God willing, come out better on the other side.

Have a wonderful weekend, friends! Hug your loved ones tight and tell them you love them. Live life to the fullest!

Image property of A Place to Dwell Blog

Back Among the Living

Sorry for being out of commission for a while. Lots going on in my world and so little time to sit down to blog, much less do anything else somewhat creative.

I was fortunate enough to take my son to the University of Kentucky game this past Saturday. The Cats took on LSU and pulled out a win, even the game was a bit ugly at times. But, Little Man had so much fun and it made for a very special event for the two of us.

Hope everyone in Blogland is doing well. I feel terrible for not keeping up with your wonderful blogs, but you know how it gets. I'll catch up soon.

Happy Monday, friends!

Image property of JMW A Place to Dwell blog

Random Act of Kindness

Today, I was the recipient of a random act of kindness.

I was in the drive-thru line at Starbucks, using a holiday gift card to buy coffee for me and pumpkin bread for the kids. I got to the window and the barista said the lady ahead of me paid my bill. How nice is that??

So, in the coming week, I will pay it forward for someone else.

Happy Wednesday, friends!

Image from Wise Words by Erin Dickerson, via Pinterest

Return to Downton Abbey

The third season of "Downton Abbey" returns to PBS this Sunday. Are you excited? Garden & Gun recently posted a "Ten Reasons Why We Love Downton Abbey" list. Southerners will especially appreciate it.

Image from PBS

2013

Happy New Year, friends! Sorry I've been MIA lately. The holidays, a road trip and many other life events have made it difficult to blog. But, I'm back at it.

Hope you are having a wonderful 2013 so far. It's a new year - what's on your horizon?

Image from Pinterest, source unknown