Thought of the Week

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"Realize that true happiness lies within you. Waste no time and effort searching for peace and contentment and joy in the world outside. Remember that there is no happiness in having or in getting, but only in giving. Reach out. Share. Smile. Hug. Happiness is a perfume you cannot pour on others without getting a few drops on yourself." -Og Mandino

A+ Picks: Summer Tops

As the summer heat has continued on, I've found myself wanting a few new tops to add some new spice to my wardrobe. Since it can be well into the 100's for days at a time here in NC, having things that are comfortable, breathable, and not too tight are crucial.

Here are some of my current favorites...

I spied this top last night at Old Navy and love the sheer, lightweight fabric and the metallic detailing. I also love that it's work appropriate but can transition easily to a more casual outfit. They also have a 3/4-sleeve version that I adore and decided to go with instead, but for some reason they don't have it up on the website quite yet.

I'm also head-over-heels for this shirt by Merona. I wore it to work and then out for cocktails the other day with a plum-colored skirt and got lots of compliments. It also has really soft fabric, which I love.

Lastly, a slight variation on my go-to white t-shirt. While it's a bit late to wear it to any 4th of July celebrations, they also have it in several other color combinations. I think it would be perfect for a more casual office setting, or to look a bit more pulled-together on the weekends. Have I mentioned that I'm also a sucker for a good rolled sleeve? That plus the stripes and I'm basically in t-shirt heaven.

Thought of the Week

Back in college, an advisor I had loved to send his students inspirational quotes on a weekly basis- a thought of the week, which quickly became shortened to TOTW.

In an effort to be more dilligent in my blog posting, I thought this would be a nice thing to resurrect on my blog. So, without further adieu...

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"Besides the noble art of getting things done, there is the noble art of leaving things undone. The wisdom in life consists in the elimination of non-essentials.” 

-Lin Yutang

Have an Above-Average Weekend!

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As you read this, I'm likely to be flying somewhere over the country on my way to Oregon! I'll be meeting up with K's family for a week-long vacation that I hope will be filled with lots of hiking, relaxation, and cooking, with some rafting and horseback riding thrown in for good measure!

There are a few posts scheduled for next week, since I'm purposely leaving my computer behind (!), so feel free to stop by until I get back next Friday.

What are you up to this weekend?

Mapping the Course

One of my favorite internet searches recently has been of vintage maps on Etsy.

It turns out that there are tons of great options on there for well under $20. I think a single map would be nice on it's own, but currently I'm imagining a wall filled with all sorts of framed maps.

Here are some that I'd include...

My current home. I love the Carolina blue accents and how the Western part of the state gets its own box.

The home state. This one is from 1898 and has such beautiful colors.

My ancestral home.

Where I dream of living one day. (Plus, it's only $1.00!)

In my searches I also came across this gem, which is just so funny. From the not-drawn-to-scale guns to the fact that it came from a book on heredity and genetics, I think it'd make quite the conversation piece.

So, what do you think? Would decorating with maps work in your space? Are there any places you'd want to include?

For the Birds

I've been a fan of Kate Nash's music for awhile now, but I hadn't heard her song 'Birds' until my dear friend R introduced me to it yesterday.

It's sweet, romantic, and funny all at the same time. Not to mention her lovely British accent. If you haven't heard it, there's a good live video here.

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My milkshake brings all the {girls} to the yard...

Happy July, y'all!

Is it just me, or does it seem like the summer is absolutely flying by?

Even though I'm sad to see June, month of birthdays and graduation celebrations, go, there is one major reason why I'm excited for the arrival of July.

Two words: watermelon milkshakes.

For those of you not familiar with this delicacy, let me explain.

Cook Out is a fast food establishment, yes, but really, it's much more than that. Open until the early hours of the morning and often strategically placed in close proximity to college campuses, it is the go-to place for a late-night snack (or meal).

It's a magical place where a Cook Out tray, an entree and two sides, plus a milkshake, can be purchased for under $5. And have I mentioned that one of these side items can be a corn dog?

Never mind that they print Bible verses on their cups and bags or that taking a trip there can quickly devolve into a visit to Sketchville, U.S.A. This place will always hold a special place in my heart.

Back when I ate meat (and had something that resembled a metabolism), I loved Cook Out. Now I try to avoid it like the plague.

Except in July. And it's all because of the watermelon milkshakes.

I know, they sound disgusting, but trust me- try one and you'll likely become a believer. They're creamy and delicious, but still feel light and fresh because of this unexpected addition. Plus, since they're actually made with fresh watermelon, they're probably one of the healthier options on the menu (that's a good excuse to get one, right?).

Since they're only available in July and August, this is cause for a minor celebration.

In short, if you're lucky enough to live in the vicinity, get thee to a Cook Out- stat!