10 things I want to do in NYC, thanks to pop culture
1. Blare this song as my plane is landing into the city
2. Have a beer at MacClaren’s (How I Met Your Mother)
3. Have lunch on the steps of the Met (Gossip Girl)
4. Break out into song and dance in Central Park (Glee)
5. Share cosmos and gossip at a swanky bar (Sex in the City)
6. Longingly peer into the windows at Tiffany’s (Breakfast at Tiffany’s)
7. Stay at the Gansevoort (Kim and Kourtney Take New York)
8. Enjoy a winter in the city and a summer in the Hamptons (Revenge)
9. Work at a magazine publication with a horrible, but brilliant boss (The Devil Wears Prada)
10. Go undercover and solve a crime or two (White Collar)
* * *
What have you always wanted to do in the city?
XO
Weekend Picturebook: Tulsa & Oklahoma City
{Friday night in Tulsa, The Cigar Box}
{and then some Drenga}
{Saturday morning brunch at Kilkenny’s, complete with Bloody Mary’s, “Manmosa’s” and Breakfast Shots}
{Dinner at Bricktown Brewery, OKC}
{Drinks before the show}
{Trans Siberian Orchestra!}
{Got to see a dear old friend, Edna’s OKC}
{The morning after, IHOP}
* * *
You may also be interested in: Weekend Picturebook: Kansas City, Weekend Picturebook: Colorado
My Week in To-Do’s
Monday
Purchase stamps
Pay Electric bill
Address and mail Christmas cards
{sneak peek for my readers}
Catch up on Gossip Girl
* * *
Tuesday
Happy hour
Plan outfits for weekend in NYC
{inspiration}
Purchase black boots + winter coat to complete said outfits
* * *
Wednesday
Get nails done
Wrap Christmas presents
* * *
Thursday
Pack for NYC
Watch Scandal
Set alarm for 4 am for NYC flight
* * *
How are you staying busy this week?
XO
BTS: Our first family Christmas card photo shoot
We’ve never done a family Christmas card. Every year we talk about it, but it never gets done. Any year up until this one if we’d done it, it would have been quick, easy and painless. This year, however, the year we decide to do it, we have a new puppy. So it was anything but quick, easy and painless. However, we got through it and got some great photos. I’ll hold off on showing the ones that will make it into the Christmas card, but here is your behind the scenes look.
{photos taken at Crystal Bridges of American Art}
{and with our wonderful photographer Amanda}
XO
5 {things I’m thankful for} + 5 {quotes from the day} + 5 {turkey day photos}
5 {things I’m thankful for}
Two incredible families who we got to spend Thanksgiving with
Our baby (puppy!) who we didn’t have last year
An abundance of food and drink
A husband who keeps me laughing and loving in our second year of marriage
The good Lord who blesses us with all of these things
* * *
5 {quotes from the day}
“Did you see her mimosas?? They were, like, clear.” – in regards to why someone was being extra chatty
“The dog was just WASTED!” – an unfortunate story about a dog who ate a bag of Columbian pot
“I used to get phone calls from pre-school saying he was being too touchy-feely.” – in regards to my loving husband
“Trivia: Who wrote the original score for this musical?” – while watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
“You better be taking care of my daughter, because she’s the light of my world.” “Yes, sir. She’s the light of my world too.” – father to son-in-law
* * *
5 {turkey day photos}
{mimosa bar}
{beautiful mother/chef/decorator/hostess}
{incredible tablescape by my mother using old wooden doors for the table tops}
{Happy Thanksgiving, XO the Aldermans}
{sibling love}
life lately
{baking this – Pioneer Woman’s dump cake}
{wearing this – new shoes from Banana Republic}
{drinking this – in honor of a friend’s farewell}
{painting this – Painting with a Twist Date Night}
{tiring out this guy – on a 3-mile walk}
{enjoying this – getting dolled for a night out in support of Circle of Life Hospice}
XOXO
5 things {I love about our little apartment}
{beautiful mirror my mother gave us (sneak peek in the reflection of my favorite painting); husband’s collection}
{home to only the finest records}
{cozy little reading nook}
{wine rack turned magazine rack}
{lazy weekends spent here}
We are blessed to be a blessing
“The Lord had said to Abram, ‘Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you. I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.'” – Genesis 12:1-3
* * *
The message at our church was so rich this morning that I had to share a piece of it with you. We should not be looking to others and thinking they are too blessed or coveting the blessings we don’t have, but instead looking at our blessings and thinking how much we have compared to others.
Two questions we will be reflecting on in our household this week and hope you will too:
How has God blessed you?
How does he want to use that blessing to bless others?
* * *
“You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.” – 2 Corinthians 9:11
from day to play
I find it can at times be difficult for a young professional to look young and professional at once. My biggest fear when I first joined the corporate world (this is very telling of me) was that I would turn into a dowdy, average dresser. I want to keep my personality in my clothes while still looking appropriate. Another challenge is often quickly changing from a work day to an evening play date a la happy hour or dinner with the girls.
So below are some tips for how to stay fresh, cute and professional from day to play.
[for play = take hair down + red lip]
[for play = change pants for dark skinny jeans + fun heels]
[for day = + black skinny pants, flats]
[for play = + chunky necklace, switch bag for clutch]
[for play = change into colored/patterned top + leather jacket]
[for day = + shrunken blazer]
What are your day to play tips? XO
celebrate (v): to publicly acknowledge a significant event with an enjoyable activity
We’ve been doing a lot of celebrating lately, so this is an ode to all of our dear friends.
{Happy 22nd Birthday Jessenia!}
* * *
{Happy 23th Birthday Lauren!}
{cute birthday girl bowling }
* * *
{Congrats Tayler and Luis on your engagement!}
{party times}
* * *
This week we will be attending a “See Ya Later” Party, which isn’t typically something to celebrate. However, I’m so excited for newlyweds Erin and Andrew to start a new adventure together. Below are a few of my favorite pics of me and Erin.
{when we first met, study abroad South Africa}
{one of my favorite pictures from my 21st birthday party}
* * *
And lately all I can think about is a fabulous holiday party I want to throw…
XO
puppy love
We got a puppy. His name is Oliver. We call him Olli. He’s 12 weeks old. And by golly, I’m convinced he’s the cutest pup out there.
{first night in his new home}
{he’s a fan of ‘Don’t Trust the B in Apt 23’}
{his favorite place to nap}
{cuddling with mommy}
* * *
5 things I learned {that I wasn’t expecting to} after having a puppy for one week:
1. Raising a puppy is hard, and I couldn’t do it without Kyle. This has given me even more respect for single moms raising kids.
2. He has a smaller bladder than I do.
3. Your friends suddenly want to come over all the time.
4.People are more friendly when you’re walking such a cute pup.
5. I never knew I could love something so much in such a short amount of time.
life lately
{brunching in downtown Bentonville}
{reminiscing about college after finding our names on senior walk}
{celebrating}
{enjoying this awesome “congrats on your new job” card from a dear friend}
{corn mazing}
XOXO
French Dip Crescents {recipe}
Quick, easy and downright delicious.
Inspired via Pinterest
2 packages of crescent rolls
1/3 lb provolone cheese
1 lb roast beef
Roll crescent rolls with desired amounts of cheese and roast beef.
Cook in 375 degree oven for approx. 12 minutes.
Serve with Au Jus.
* * *
Au Jus recipe via Food.com
3 cups water
4 teaspoons beef bouillon (or 4 cubes)
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
salt and pepper
Place the water in a medium sauce pan and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low; whisk in beef bouillon.
Whisk in soy sauce, garlic powder and salt and pepper to taste.
five things
A few {almost} midweek perk-me-ups:
{RED released Monday. I can never get enough Taylor.}
{simply adorable}
{already dreaming of another summer vaca}
{but first, dreaming of Christmas parties}
{so.funny.}
How to Survive a Zombie Apocalypse
{Tips accumulated from watching The Walking Dead}
1. Never go anywhere alone. Ever.
2. Only use a gun in dire circumstances – the noise attracts more zombies. (my personal choice: bow & arrow)
3. Always look behind you. and in front. and to the sides.
4. Never assume it’s dead.
5. Aim for the head.
6. Everyone does not deserve a gun.
7. Be wary of other survivors.
8. Don’t waste time going to the CDC – there are no answers.
9. Don’t blame the leader for everything.
10. Have hope.
You might also enjoy: How One Tree Hill Saved My Marriage, Life on Wisteria Lane
life lately {fall}
{fall hair color}
{fall meal at Eleven – autumn bruschetta, butternut squash soup & apple pie moonshine}
{fall mani – OPI Russian Navy}
{fall toy – iPhone 5 & new case}
{fall inspiration}
great news & good television
Day 15: I’m thankful for clean sheets.
Day 16: I’m thankful for congratulatory support from everyone around me. I accepted a position with the Walmart social media team!!
Day 17: I’m thankful for the return of fall TV!
* * *
The Alderman household lineup:
Sunday – Revenge, new show – 666 Park Avenue
Monday – Gossip Girl, Castle
Tuesday – New Girl
Wednesday – Modern Family, new show – Nashville
Thursday – The Big Bang Theory, Glee
Friday – Community
Day 18: I’m thankful for a faaabulous hairstylist. I’ll post photos of the newest ‘do soon.
xoxo
pumpkin lovin’
It’s no secret one of the best things about fall — other than fashion — is pumpkin everything. To celebrate the first day of the season, a little baking was in order.
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Brownies
{messy & delicious}
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1 whole egg
2 egg whites
1 tbsp vegetable or canola oil
1 cup flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground allspice
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp salt
2/3 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
* *
Preheat oven to 350˚F. Spray an 11″- x 7″-inch pan with non-stick cooking spray.
In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, eggs and oil until smooth. Set aside.
In a separate medium bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, spices, salt and brown sugar. Add to the wet ingredients and mix until thoroughly incorporated. Stir in the chocolate chips.
Pour into prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 15 – 20 minutes or until passes toothpick test. Cool completely before cutting.
Recipe via
* *
Other pumpkin recipes on the must-try list:
{pumpkin creme brulee}
{pumpkin ice cream with beer caramel sauce}
{pumpkin lust cake}
{pumpkin whoopie pies}
All recipes via my Pinterest board Food Porn
hello, fall; hello, fashion
Day 12: I’m thankful that I’m financially blessed enough to be able to celebrate good news by going out.
Day 13: I’m thankful for an unexpected compliment today at the post office. Don’t those just make your day?!
* * *
FALL = fashion
I vow this year to take more risks in my fall wardrobe. So I’m sharing some inspiration for the season I hope to shamelessly steal from and make my own. My 2012 fall fashion advice = brights on bottom, nudes on top.
{mint!}
{best ombre}
{current fall obsession – Michael Kors Hamilton Artisan Tote}
{need more fur}
{burgundy + metal tip shoes = both hot fall trends}
{leopard, always}
{hat, yes yes yes}
{super bright, super cute – also, the shoes}
{chunky gold}
{glam + slouchy sweater = perfect}
What’s your fall style?
You might also enjoy: Falling for Fall, Northwest Arkansas Sartorialists {fall fashion}
have I told you lately that I love you?
Day 9, 10, 11 of the 30-day challenge – this may be cheating by saying only one thing I’m thankful for for all three of these days (though I did create this, so there’s no rules, right?) but it is highly deserving of three days, and many more, to be thankful for:
I’m thankful for my husband and parents for tremendous, continuous support in everything I do
– specifically the past week as I’ve been going through some changes. They are ALWAYS there with an encouraging text message, email, phone call. Ready to listen, to ask questions, to challenge, to comfort, to do anything for me. I cannot praise God enough for such incredible family he’s put in my life, and I hope I never take that for granted.
So this is for you – Mom, Dad and Husband, I love you and thank you.
mille’s chili {recipe}
Day 8: I’m thankful for good food.
* * *
Lunch
After church we ate at one of our favorite restaurants in NWA – Rolando’s. It’s located in downtown Rogers underground, so very easy to miss. The “nuevo latino” cuisine is unlike any in the area. To start, always always get the Queso Flamido. I literally drool just thinking about it. You have to eat it quick because it gets hard fast, but it is DEELISH. My entree of choice is the Pollo Bohemio and husband’s is the Taquitos. If you go, I’d love to hear what you get and what you think. Or invite us to come along, we’re always down for some Rolando’s.
Dinner
It’s finally time to break out my go-to fall meal. Here’s my recipe for easy, delicious, down-home, no frou-frou chili.
2 lb. lean turkey meat
12 oz. can dark kidney beans
12 oz. can light kidney beans
(or substitute one can for black beans)
2 12oz. cans diced garlic tomatoes
2 8oz. cans tomato sauce
2 tbs. chili powder
1 tbs. cumin
dash of cinnamon
S&P to taste
*
1. Brown the meat in a non-stick skillet.
2. Drain and rinse kidney beans.
3. Pour everything into crockpot.
4. Set on low all day or on high for a few hours.
5. Serve with shredded cheese and ritz crackers.
* * *
What’s your fall comfort food?
life lately
Day 7: I’m thankful for a busy August and a quiet September.
* * *
{remembering this} a fantastic vacation
{loving this} with mom and bff
{eating this} crepes at Arsaga’s on Dickson
{enjoying this} one of my best friend’s getting married
{too excited for this} PSL + Razorbacks
{watching this} White Collar ❤
{having fun with this} at Crystal Bridges
{drinking this} great happy hour, great coasters
better when we’re together
Day 5 of the 30-day challenge: I am thankful for my co-workers.
Old and new, similar and different, with whom to learn, to laugh, to relate.
{our superhero team last Halloween}
* * *
Day 6: I’m thankful for my husband during a plan-less weekend.
It’s very rare when this happens, but it occasionally does … we have NO plans this weekend. Though husband loves this, it kind of stresses me out in its own way. But then it hit me, there’s no one else I’d rather have no plans with than Kyle. So, I’m thankful to have someone I love spending that much time with, no matter what our plans.
{Kiss a Pig Gala – March}
you are the peanut to my butter
Day 3 of the 30-day challenge: I’m thankful for friends who know me really, really well.
Case in point #1: I LOVE celebrity gossip. So when I heard about Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds’ surprise wedding (who I’ve previously blogged about here) I was shocked! I couldn’t believe it, like they were my bff’s who kept the secret from me. So when I got a text message from a friend about the topic with the perfect amount of shock and exclamation points, it made me happy to have someone who understands.
(P.S. They got married on The Notebook plantation. Could that be any more adorable?!)
Case in point #2: In the same night, I had another friend tag me in the photo below on Facebook. As a Diet Coke obsessor and one who loves a good advertisement, it was just too perfect for words.
* * *
Day 4 of the 30-day challenge: I’m thankful I have something worth waking up early for.
Every Wednesday I’ll be waking up 2 hours earlier than usual to get together with a group of wonderful women in a Bible study. The lack of sleep is completely worth it – to spend time with these Godly ladies, to dig into His word and to prayerfully learn about living out our faith in the workplace.
m.davis xoxo 