When the children and I ventured out to The Oaks a few days before school began, I was fortunate enough to get a few minutes at the stores I missed while living in Japan.
My top 3? Anthropologie, J. Crew, and Ann Taylor.
While browsing the latest offerings at Ann Taylor I took my time admiring the Downtown Sheathe Dress (seen here). It reminded me just why I loved this store so much: classic style, luxe fabrics, flattering cuts.
Knowing this to have always been true, imagine my surprise when I saw this:
Every store has its hits and misses. It happens. And this certainly isn't the worst I've ever seen. The cut was lovely, the color was pretty, but the panels at the shoulders...It just seemed incongruous with everything else in the store.
And it looked so familiar...
And then it hit me! Perhaps the design team who was up late one night, stuck on just how to make the Fall 2011 Ann Taylor collection pop. Everyone knows that fashion is constantly recycled and updated, and as the 80's are in full swing with the re-emergence of the shoulder pad, friendship bracelets, leggings, and vibrant neons, they decided to dig up even more 80's gold.
Ladies and gentlemen, I think the design team at Ann Taylor owe Bill Cosby a little financial compensation.
Gordon Gartrell anyone?
Oh, I must have looked a sight in Ann Taylor when it occurred to me. Because once I started laughing, I couldn't stop. Then I had to pull up the video on YouTube once we were home so Eldest could see why I was so tickled.
She was in equal hysterics. And can you blame us? Cosby is some of the best clean family friendly comedy that is out there today. It was always well-written, the dialogues playfully executed, and the story lines/topics are still relevant today. Those were good people telling good stories.
Goodness knows I wish there were shows like that for my children to watch now.
Should you be in need of a good laugh, watch these two clips and enjoy the brilliance and delightful humor of Bill Cosby in the episode only known as "The Tale of a Shirt".
One of the greatest times of the year is Fall. I don't know anyone who isn't excited by the cooler days, warmer drinks, and cozy clothes.
In the South, it's even more special as Fall ushers in the full force of football season.
Yes, yes, yes...It's football season for everyone everywhere. But there's something very unique and charming about football below the Mason-Dixon. And I'm not just talking about the game itself.
Perhaps it's due to the slightly more accommodating weather, maybe it has to do with genteel traditions and breathtaking tailgating parties throughout the SEC schools. The stylishly dressed gals and their smartly dressed beaus certainly deserve a nod for their contributions. And the friendly waves and genuine smiles that always precede a welcoming, "Hey y'all!"? They're all little, but precious parts of what make Southern football very special.
This is all of the opinion of this Southern Lady, naturally, but as long as I lived in the South, football has had a special place in the heart of every man, woman, and child.
Imagine my delight when I picked up September's issue of Southern Living and found not only my and Husband's Alma Mater, Ole Miss featured as a favorite college town, but two very recognizable people as the focus of the magazine's "Pride of Place".
You may recognize Leigh Anne and Collins Tuohy, but if you don't, that's okay. You will, however, remember Sandra Bullock's Oscar winning portrayal as Leigh Anne in "The Blind Side".
It's not necessary to be a fan of Ole Miss to love this movie, but for those of us who are alumni and currently attending? It's pretty darn cool. We love being able to have the Tuohy's and all of their children as a part of our family. The story is and incredible tale of what human kindness, strength, and compassion can do.
We're moving to our new temporary home this weekend so we'll be without cable or Internet for a few days. A small price to pay as we get a little closer to finding our permanent home. But...there will be no football for us.
Perhaps next weekend?
So for all of you heading to a game or sitting in the comfort of your home enjoying a pre-season one, enjoy. We wish we could be with you.
As happy as we all are that Eldest is in school, we're even happier that she had a wonderful first day. As I told one of my Twitter friends, she was aglow with delight!
The road getting to that first day, though, was a very rough one. This past week and a half was filled with emotions ranging from frustrated to upset to offended and put out. Never had there been as many headaches concerning schools as there were for middle school.
So when I mentioned that I was keeping the children busy with fun things to do in between school shopping, those were the moments that calmed and reigned in those nasty feelings. They offered perspective and kept me from missing precious opportunities with my bebes.
They were moments that made us all laugh hysterically, sigh in bliss, and contemplate our blessings.
I'd love to share a few glimpses into our week of ups and downs with you~by focusing on the ups! It's what makes going through those of aggravating points in time completely worth it.
Let's get right to it. We're a family of very serious people~seriously silly!
Both of the children are hat people and love trying them on...even if they are that grotesque shade of neon green. They thought it was fun to pose in front of mirrors and prance about the accessory stores. Rest assured, they weren't being a bother as it was right when the stores opened, and the owners loved seeing children in the store and not the "scary teenagers". Their words, friends, not mine.
Sometimes when I think my little girl is all grown up, she'll go to some pretty interesting extremes to remind me she's still my baby girl.
We all got a kick out of this! And wouldn't you know it? She had no trouble fitting into the toddler seat. Not even a little.
We loved finding a convenient cupcake shop near both the Four Seasons as well as our temporary housing.
Sweet Arleen's is phenomenal. We haven't hit Sprinkles or Crumbs, but I'm not inclined to run there after enjoying these decadent morsels. One day we had a red velvet, two vanilla's with vanilla icing, and one chocolate with vanilla icing. But the absolute best? The marshmallow cupcake with fluff and ganache. It is to die for. And if you don't believe me, next time you watch "Cupcake Wars" on Food Network you just may see this little shop win not once, but twice, and serve their fare at the Tony's. It was a victory well deserved!
Also well deserved were these two frappuccuino's after a long hard day of school searching.
No worries, my long-legged child sipped on a cream-based drink, not coffee. She is not the coffee lover her mother is. She does, however, love the double chocolate chip...with extra whipped cream.
By the by, did y'all know Starbucks has a super secret menu? One of their items actually happens to be a drink that is mostly whipped cream. I haven't told Eldest. I fear she'll never return home.
But in case that day comes, we have an expert navigator who loves to tell us where to go when we're in the car.
No, he can't really read. The scallywag just enjoys a good map. Maybe his bedroom in our permanent home will play host to some vintage ones. Ok, Pinterest pals, time for you to help me by finding some excellent rooms with such a look. Are y'all interested?
Of course, as much as we goofed off and dined our way around Thousand Oaks and Westlake Village we had quiet moments as well.
Eldest spent a few afternoons while her brother was napping writing thank you notes. Our time in New Orleans was a wonderful one, and everyone went out of their way to make sure the children were included and welcomed with open arms. Using Four Seasons stationary (so very Jackie!), Eldest wrote a rough draft or two before putting pencil to paper. She was very thoughtful in how she phrased her letters, thanking everyone for their thoughtful gestures. I was touched that she took the time to do this~especially when I know our summer has not been the most relaxing. It's been fun, fun, fun, but so very busy. I appreciated that she took the time to show gratitude to others when she could have indulged in her own play time.
Of course, for her, play often means sitting back with a good book and falling into a story fraught with mystery, adventure, and rich characters.
Thank you, Mr. Grisham, for writing books our children could enjoy! Perhaps you'll make a Theodore Boone film in the not too far distant future? I know one child would would venture out to watch it.
Until then, I'll continue to watch her, and my little boy. It is my favorite thing to do in all the world. In the midst of all the hullabaloo this past summer, there have been so many distractions. At times I know I missed out on things with my children I ordinarily wouldn't, but I'd like to think that it's okay. We're all still so young, as is our family. There is so much to see and do together still, so I can't let guilt hold onto me as strongly as it has been.
These moments that I have with my children~even in those that are in between~are incredibly sweet and oftentimes hilarious. It is a blessing to have so many memories.
And I am blessed to have the two children that helped create them.
We are just out of our minds with happiness that Eldest...
began school this morning with all of her fellow classmates! She's a Colina Cougar, a sixth grader, ready with supplies and uniforms, armed with a smile.
Last night Eldest was a mixture of nerves and excitement, all wrapped up in high hopes for a new school year.
But let me tell you, she has hit the ground running with a great attitude.
Eldest's day doesn't begin until 9 A.M., which means our mornings have a nice, relaxed pace. She's signed up for career courses, placed her name atop a list that will teach beginners how to play a stringed instrument such as a viola, bass, or violin, and purchased cards so she can attend the social functions throughout the year.
She has a social to attend, y'all! Next month.
Lord, I know how it is at this age: boys on one side, girls on the other. It's adorable, yet a little bit heartbreaking at the same time. Is my first born really a middle schooler now? There's a part of me that can't believe it, but the other part, the part that sees this lovely, gentle-hearted girl growing and blossoming more and more each and every day knows that it's true.
And we could not be more proud of her!
Happy first day of Middle School, sweet girl. We love you so.
Before I go, and the scallywag and I venture into Thousand Oaks to go play, I'll give you a little glimpse into the school Eldest is attending.
Enjoy and a happy back to school week to everyone!
With a combination of beautiful weather, the school year beginning tomorrow, and NFL pre-season games every weekend, Fall is begging to be let out and shine her glory on everyone.
We have chilly mornings and evenings in L.A. which has my mind turning to thoughts of lovely things that can be easily layered.
And with the craziness of this past week, I really need a little frivolity to think about!
Would you like to see the pretties I've been thinking about?
Tory Burch's Aaden Riding Boots
A serious splurge, no argument, but the color and style is timeless. Wear them with your skinny jeans, a sweet, flirty skirt, or under some wide-legged trousers and you and your feet will be in sheer heaven!
Ann Taylor's Downtown Sheathe Dress
My Lord, what isn't there to love about this dress? The material is super comfortable, the cut a little sweet, a whole lot of saucy. And it's RED. I love a bold color, and a there's something about a little red dress that seems to break all the rules while following them to the T at the same time.
J. Crew's Perfect Shirt in Leopard
Maybe it's because we're living in L.A., but for some reason I find myself taking more than a passing glance at these bolder choices. And animal print never goes out of style. This shirt with a simple pant, skirt, a jean...it works every single time. It's fun, and who doesn't want to have fun when they're getting dressed?
J. Crew's Sequin Henley Shell
It's not so sparkly that you'll blind people who are trying to get a good look at this lovely top, but it has enough to dress it up for a day or evening wear. And again? You can wear it with just about anything!
Merona's Collin Cardigan
I think people are intimidated by short-sleeved sweaters~doubly so when it's a tie front. But the great thing about this sweater from Target is that it can be worn year round. In the warmer months wear it over a little tank or a darker dress. The colder months make it just as versatile when you wear it over a long sleeved shirt. It's a more casual item, certainly, but we all have days when we want to relax and do nothing. You could easily do that in this little number!
Mossimo's Long Sleeved Cardigan
This sweater also comes from Target and resembles the cardi's from J. Crew so strongly it's amazing. I'm not going to say anything beyond that. I just love Target.
I haven't been shopping for myself in a while, which I knows thrills Husband to no end. And he doesn't have to worry. These are items I'm simply drooling over in my head. It's just a little way to enjoy some pre-Fall fun and to celebrate a love of clothing as well.
And that is so worth celebrating isn't it?
A lovely evening to you all! I'm off to get a certain sweet girl ready for her first day of school.
Last Sunday we said farewell to New Orleans and returned to our new home of Los Angeles. It was so hard saying goodbye to my parents.
But we had good reason to be excited about our arrival at LAX...
Husband was waiting for us! We were so happy to see him and believe me, he was happy to see us.
From the airport we made our way to our temporary home:
That's right! We're back at the Four Seasons. In truth we weren't expecting to return, but as there's a shortage on temporary housing here we are~and no one is complaining.
I'd love to tell you why...
Here are some reasons to love the Four Seasons!
~Feeling jet-lagged? Room service will deliver the most wonderful pot of coffee to your room.
Arriving on a highly-polished tray draped with pressed white linens, the entire coffee service is presented in sparkling shades of porcelain and platinum. The prettiest shock of pink lets you know that attention to detail~and you~is very important to the people looking after you. Oh, and the coffee is really good. That doesn't hurt!
~Flowers, flowers everywhere!
No need to worry friends with allergies, unless you request it they're not in your rooms. But the moment you're escorted into the Four Seasons Hotel you will be astounded by the gorgeous array of flowers. When we were here in July, white orchid blossoms were everywhere. But now?
Sunflowers! As we approach the cooler months of Fall, a more Autumnal blossom has made its way onto the table tops. I love fresh flowers, but as three out of our four family members sneeze at the mere sight of flowers, we rarely have them in our home. Our stay at the Four Seasons has allowed me to live vicariously through them and enjoy these pretty flowers.
~The beds. Ohhhh the beds.
I think this picture says it all, don't you? The beds are incredibly comfortable and you tend to zonk out the moment you lay down. That's what happened to this sleepy bebe. He was out cold when this picture was taken!
The children have their own room and as you can see, it's highly traditional.
In fact, everything about the Four Seasons is traditional. This extends to how you are treated as a guest. With all the generous hospitality and a staff always ready with a warm smile, staying here makes me feel like I'm back home in the South. It's wonderful.
~They treat your children with kindness, welcoming them with open arms...
and warm cookies and milk! This was what greeted the children when they entered their room Sunday evening. Melt-in-your-mouth chocolate and caramel cookies are never a bad thing~especially when you've been travelling all day. Of course, I know this only because the children were kind enough to share a bite or two.
~Did I mention that they really roll out the red carpet for children?
As a thoughtful gesture, the Four Seasons provide pint-sized robes and slippers for their smaller guests. I have enthusiastic confirmation that certain children happen to enjoy such things.
They also enjoy the playful tableware they're presented with when dining in!
I love staying somewhere that considers my children just as important as the adult guests. It really makes the stay enjoyable for everyone.
~We also enjoy the room service! On Monday Husband had our rental car and we had to stay at the hotel for the duration of the day. This meant our meals were brought to our room for breakfast as well as lunch.
The food was scrumptious! I loved the oatmeal with warm milk and sliced bananas for breakfast. With each and every bite I began thinking more and more about moving into our next home and preparing this delicious dish on chilly Fall mornings...or every morning here.
Have I mentioned the weather in L.A. is phenomenal?
~The bathrooms.
As a girl, I love a beautifully done bathroom. Marble, chrome, & glass? Yes please! The children love theirs, the bathtub in particular, and I totally understand. I love to slip into a hot bath and just be. There hasn't been any of that at all this summer as we've been constantly moving about, but now we're all enjoying the overly large tubs in the bath.
A few someones also love that there's a television in there. Personally I don't see the need. But if you're soaking in the tub and your favorite show is on, why not really enjoy it?
I could go on and on and on.
We're enjoying this brief stay at the Four Seasons during our transition to L.A. It's not at all our norm, but something we happen to be drinking in with complete appreciation. We've needed some down time, and even though Husband has gone right back to work since arriving, coming home to such a lovely place has certainly helped him settle in. It's helped us all.
We cannot wait to move into our real home, but still have one more temporary stop before we get there. Not to mention the children are preparing for school! So much to do, so little time.
Thank goodness for the respite found at the Four Seasons. It's our little island of sanity in a sea of chaos.
And thank you for stopping by! Take care, friends, and stay cool in these last weeks of summer.
And if you're as stunned as I was to discover how naturally handling wee alligators came to her, then come on over and join me for a cup of tea.
I was floored. Not because she's the squeamish type, but because she's just not an animal person. She loves reading about them, studying them, zoos are a favorite past time if we can manage it. Eldest has a great respect for animals in general. But she's never wanted a pet nor is she keen for us to get one.
That said, she thought the entire experience at Insta-Gator Ranch & Hatchery was fascinating, and the scallywag could not help but agree!
She wasn't exactly ready to cozy up to one, but Eldest thoroughly enjoyed the unique opportunity to interact with something as wild and mysterious as the American Alligator.
Located in Covington, Louisiana, Insta-Gator Ranch & Hatchery is a program that was developed to conserve the Louisiana Wetlands as well as the American Alligator. They're world renowned, and it's easy to see why. What they've done is really remarkable! Not only have they assisted in bringing the alligator species back from the brink of becoming endangered, but they've found a purpose for each alligator born at the Hatchery.
Some are returned to the swamps and wetlands~3 out of every 10. But others are used for food and, as expected, shoes, wallets, and other accessories. It's not always pleasant to hear, but it's important to understand that this helps control the alligator population. And why is this important?
Because there are over 3 million alligators within the state of Louisiana. Do you want to know how many people reside within Louisiana?
4 million.
How is that for unnerving and shocking? I knew we were vastly outnumbers at Insta-Gator, but knowing that the human population was almost equal to that of the alligator? It just shows how much work the Ranch & Hatchery has done for the wetland habitat.
Needless to say, this certainly isn't a job for the faint of heart.
Our guide was young, funny, and very well-informed.
And he should be! He's one of the ranchers who helps reintroduce alligators back into their natural habitat, and flies into the wetlands to extract their eggs.
It's no easy task, though, as the mama gator is always on the watch. But here's an interesting fact: she's not watching because she cares for her babies. She's watching because someone is invading her space. This is a gal who would be paid many a visit by Child Protective Services were she human~she's that neglectful. Mama gators don't care a wit for their young. But they do like their territory and will protect it with the ferocity of...well...an alligator.
As most newborn alligators don't make it from their incubation in their eggs, Insta-Gator removes them from the Mama gator and the threat of others, and allow them to be born in a safer environment.
Our guide let us gently stroke a newborn alligator, and I don't know who was more amazed~Eldest or the scallywag.
They were also mesmerized by our engaging tour guide, as well as the videos showing how they remove the eggs from the alligator nests.
But the best part of our tour by far was the moment our guide filled our hands with marshmallows.
Why is this so exciting?
Because it meant we were going to feed some gators!
Walking into a small, dank-smelling "barn", a slippery walkway and three-foot high wall was all the protection we had from 8 holding areas containing at least 100 alligators.
They ranged in size, but you could easily see which ones were the more aggressive hunters, and which ones were content to see where their food went.
Don't think for a moment these were complacent reptiles, though. They're 100% predator. One particular gator was bold enough to walk up to the wall and watch as every single person shuffled by.
Confiding quietly to a visitor behind us, our guide revealed that this 8 1/2 foot alligator was unusually aggressive and creating enough of a concern that they were going to have to release him back into the wetlands a little sooner than expected.
Needless to say, we all breathed a little easier once we were in the sunshine and away from that bad boy.
But the fun wasn't over!
Once again we were invited to gently pet a slightly bigger alligator and watch how he moved across the grass of the Ranch. The wee one wasn't quite as enthralled as our guide showed us how to get an alligator to fall asleep (turn him upside down!),
but he entertained himself on a very large gator that happened to be lounging near by.
Don't worry, he was no longer of this world.
Our tour informally concluded at this point, and Mom and the wee boy went back to the car. Eldest, Daddy, and I however, had a date with some little scaly friends.
It was our turn to pick up alligators!
They were still fairly young, but had substantial weight to each of them. I was surprised by this. I also found it remarkable at how beautiful they were up close! I held one, and was glad to have had the experience, but I felt much more at ease behind the camera.
As you can see, Daddy and Eldest had a blast while I snapped away!
After 15 minutes of being able to carefully handle the smaller alligators, Eldest was ready to go. She was so proud of herself and thrilled to have participated at Insta-Gator. I joked that perhaps she'd found her calling.
The entire time she'd been gentle and attentive to her reptilian charges, even giving them nicknames that suited their personalities. Our guide remarked upon the same thing, saying she had been very good with the alligators and didn't act silly around them. Then he teased her that when she'd gotten the right degree, she'd be welcome to work at Insta-Gator Ranch & Hatchery!
I'm not sure this is truly Eldest's calling, but she certainly had a wonderful time handling the alligators. We all did!
Should y'all ever be in the New Orleans area or north of the city, I encourage you to go to Insta-Gator and take their tour. It's only an hour and a half and not only will you learn many interesting facts, you'll come to have a new level of appreciation for our lovely American Alligator.
Reason enough to go, don't you think?
Have a lovely weekend all and thank you for stopping by to read and say hello! Tomorrow we leave for Los Angeles and begin settling in to our new home.
