Anniversaire

Well, my birthday was certainly beyond fabulous this year! My friends and family certainly went above and beyond and just spoiled me this year. I got far more gifts than I deserve, but I simply adore every single one! Thank you to all that made my 26th birthday so fabulous!!!

Please excuse all the extra, white space on the above Polyvore. I cannot figure out what I am doing wrong!

Best Dressed

Are you watching the Oscars? I think I have seen some of the best dresses in years tonight. So many well dressed ladies, it was hard to keep track of the dresses I really loved, but below are a few.

I loved Hailee Steinfield's dress. It was very age appropriate, but elegant too.
My new found love for purple left me loving Mila Kunises dress. The lilac is stunning. If we were friends I would have lent her all my amethyst jewels...tee hee hee!

My favorite dress of tonight was worn by my very favorite, Gwyneth Paltrow. Not only was her dress stunning, but her jewels were out of this world. Also, I have said it before, but she has a killer figure and makes me want to go on a macrobiotic diet. Her perfection tonight reminded me of her 1999 dress:
This was one of my favorites of all time. Perfect and pretty in pink!

While still on the movie note I am SO excited about Something Borrowed. I went to unknown this weekend and they showed the trailer...it looks fabulous and the perfect summer chick flick!

Blow Dry!

If you have read my blog or Twitter for some time you know I have thick hair that takes quite some time to do. Do not get me wrong, I LOVE my hair and am thankful to have a full, thick head of hair, but sometimes spending 1.5 hours drying and styling is not exactly what I want to do. So, when I heard Dry Bar was opening just a few blocks from me I knew I had to try it.

Dry Bar is a shampoo and blowout only salon. For $35 you get your hair washed and styled. They do not do cuts or colors, just wash and blow it to your liking. The appointments are 30 minutes so you are in and out like clock work. Wonderful for the busy bees out there!

I went online yesterday afternoon (it was hair washing day and I was not in a washing kind of mood) and lucky me scored an appointment at the booked Dallas Dry Bar! As soon as I walked in I knew I would LOVE it. The atmosphere is sleek yet still feminine and chic (the below photo is actually not the Dallas location, but the decor and set up are very similar) and the staff was very welcoming and kind.

I met my stylist-who also brought me a glass of strawberry water, yum- and had my hair washed before I picked my style. Dry Bar offers five signature blow outs that you can choose from:

I like lots of volume so I went with the Southern Comfort...
This is a terrible photo with my eyes closed, but you get the idea! I actually did not ask for as much curl as the Southern Comfort normally has, rather just the body. I LOVE how it turned out and how fast and efficient Dry Bar is. I already bought the monthly membership and cannot wait to return next week. Goodbye to the days of standing up for hours drying my extra thick hair and hello chic efficiency!
*All photos are from Facebook and Google Images with the exception of my photo.*

Party, Party, Party!

I love when you meet someone and become good friends and then realize that your birthdays are just days apart. It makes the celebrating more fun when you can have a party with someone else!Last night my friend Kristin and I had a joint birthday party with a handful of our good friends.
We met at a favorite Mexican restaurant and were lucky enough to have our own room since it was not too packed. The red tablecloth did not exactly match our pink and green theme, but we made it work. Kristin did the darling goody bags- they were so cute and the perfect size to take home. I had baked some treats (seen above) and packaged them as well and of course we had placecards to making seating go smoothly. Sadly, these are the only photos I got from the evening as we all got busy chatting once all our friends arrived. We had a great time and the food and cookie cake hit the spot. Happiest of birthdays to Kristin and thank you for celebrating with me!
PS- Mother, I hope you like my hair. It was lightened!

This and That

I started watching Downton Abbey last night and stayed up far too late. I missed this when it was on PBS in January, but was certainly sucked in last night. If you have Netflix you can watch this onDemand, otherwise it is a MUST rent!! I cannot wait to watch the second segment this evening.

I updated the post below after I got several comments and emails about the cups and straws I used at my birthday this weekend. The cups are basic, 20 oz Styrofoam cups that are available from any paper store. I had never seen any with a monogram and thought it would be cute so I ordered mine with a large, script monogram from our Junior League store. I got 100 for around $50. I would HIGHLY recommend getting the 20 oz cup as the more common, 16 oz is sort of dinky. These are great gifts and perfect for taking in the car too. I LOVE mine!

The straws were purchased at Target a few years ago. They are from the Cynthia Rowley line and are the hard, reusable straws. I throw them in the dishwasher after each use and they are as good as new for the next time.

Those of you that have been to St. John's, what are your MUSTS for a trip there? I am going with friends in June and the planning has begun so I would love your input too!

I have several luncheons and weddings this Spring and Summer and have loved browsing all the new clothing additions to some of my favorite sites.

I was especially excited to see so many classic cuts this year. I am more bland in the minds of many and sometimes boring when it comes to styles and prefer to buy things I can wear for years. So, the above Lilly and below Kate Spade dresses really fit my wardrobe check list.

Finally, I am SO excited Gwyneth is going to be on another episode of Glee. Like Summer is a Verb I have loved Gwennie for years and cannot get enough of her these days! Set you TiVo for March 8th!

Birthday Winner!

Thank you all for the lovely birthday wishes as well as all your fun post ideas. Several had crossed my brain before, but many were such original ideas that I will be using in the coming weeks and months. On that note, it is time to announce the Lilly tote winner...

Comment 258....Yalie in DC

Please send me your address and we will get the ball rolling on getting this to you.

Again, thank you to all who entered. Your well wishes made by birthday extra special!

Party Time!

Birthdays are the perfect excuse to put my party ideas to use. As you know, today I turned 26 so I had a small affair with several friends to celebrate. I was most excited about doing a sweets buffet as I have always wanted to create one, here was what I came up with:

Everything really came together wonderfully. I lucked out in that LOTS of pink and pastel treats are available in February so I ran with the theme. I popped into Michael's earlier in the day and picked up all the white, shabby chi looking vases and crowns as well as the apocrathy jars for 40% off- the table would have been incomplete with out them!

Sweets galore!
The mini cupcakes are from Gigi's and I got all the printables from Anna and Blue. I had ordered them for another dinner party I am having with close friends later in the week, but decided to use a few here too. They were perfect!
Cakeballs, pink pretzels and delicious pink, iced animal crackers made for a sugar high!

The chocolate covered Oreos did not turn out perfectly, but hopefully they tasted good (I admit, I never tasted one- things lose their luster when you make them). I read about the tiny, pink cans of champagne somewhere a while back and thought they would look cute amongst the sweets. Everything came together in my opinion!

Update: I ordered the monogram cups from the JL store in Dallas, but most paper stores sell custom cups. I had never seen anyone do a classic, interlock monogram on them so I decided to go ahead and give it a try and I could not be happier! I think you get 100 cups for about $50. The straws are from the 2008 (or was it 2009?) Cynthia Rowley for Target collection. I am unsure of the manufacturer, but they are wonderful since they are hard plastic and dishwasher safe; they can be used again and again!

26!

"Let them eat cake!"

Today, at 3:58pm, I am another year older and another year wiser. 25 was certainly a FANTASTIC year! I traveled abroad numerous times, lived life to the fullest and learned far too many important lessons. I think the most important thing I have learned this past year is the meaning and definition of friendship. I have already touched upon this last month, but I think I am finally able to say for the first time in a long time I actually know who my true friends are. They are not the same people I would have guessed would be by best friends years ago, but they are the ladies I know I can call AND count on at 3am. As a new year dawns I am SO thankful to be blessed with a wonderful family and so many lovely friends here in Dallas. I look forward to another year spent doing what I love, surrounded by those that I love and I know that the coming year will certainly be just as enlightening as the last! Thank you to all of you who have made my 25th so wonderful and I look forward to sharing my 26th with you!

Now Available on VHS

"Her recommendations for a campsite were totally unsuitable. There were no outlets. And there was dirt, and bugs, and... and it rains there. So anyway, we've found a place that's much more us: the Beverly Hills Hotel."

One movie I watched throughout my childhood (along with Annie which I am sure my mother was ready to throw away because in 5th and 6th grade I literally watched it daily) was Troop Beverly Hills. I am unsure if I have written about this film on my blog in the past, but I simply adore it. Troop Beverly Hills is my kind of troop...from the fashion shows, to the diamond patch to the "camping" experience I think I would fit right in...I mean wouldn't you?! Recently, I got to thinking it had a been awhile and lo and behold it is available on DVD (they have come a LONG way since being available on VHS as mentioned in the trailer below) and it is a must buy!

"I may be a beginner at some things, but I've got a black belt in shopping!"

Birthday Wishes?

Recently, a number of people have been asking me what I want for my birthday. Though I really, really, REALLY do NOT want anything a few family members insisted on me coming up with something. I do love good food and I also enjoy being in the kitchen so naturally I mentioned my top William-Sonoma wish list items.

All Clad Slow Cooker

So many recipes seem to call for a slow cooker these days (several I have even posted). I still have yet to invest in one of these, so I figure I might as well go for the creme-de-la-creme of croc pots and do All Clad when it comes time to purchase one.

Pink Kitchenaid Mixer
I really love baking and I think an essential in any baker's kitchen (I can hardly call myself a baker) is a Kitchenaid. I have had the pink hand mixer for years, but I think it might be time to upgrade per the recommendation of many of you.
William-Sonoma Goldtouch Muffin Pan
I am obsessed with all WS Goldtouch items. I have numerous baking sheets and would love to eventually add the muffin pan as well as the round cake pans to my collection.

However, again, in reality I really do NOT need any of these items nor do I even want any gifts. I have so much stuff right now and no where to put anything, I need to get organized before adding anything else to my life. I would much rather that people that insist on doing gifts make a donation in my name to one of my alma maters or favorite charities ( Taft, Compassion International, etc). On my birthday I would just love to get a few messages, emails, tweets or calls from those that I love; that would be the best gift in my opinion!

Blog Sale

Well, I seem to have run out of hangers in my closet so that means it is time to give some things a better home. I have quite a few items up for grabs below. I have not included measurements for all items so if you have any questions please feel free to contact me (kappaprep@gmail.com) as all sales are final. If you would like an item please email me with the item in the subject line. Shipping is $5 per item and $8 if you purchase two or more items. All payment must be made through Paypal within 24 hours. If you have another offer please also feel free to email me. Shop away dear readers!!

Issac Mizrahi for Target Plaid Dress, XS- $30
This is a silk looking dress (it is 100% polyester, but had I not read the materials I would have assumed it was silk) and perfect for parties. I wore the dress twice to holiday parties, otherwise it has hung happily on a hanger. The dress is fitted at the waist and has a belt. It is a tres chic style and always gets compliments.

Lilly Pulitzer Cotton Turtleneck, S- $10

This is a lovely cotton turtleneck that is again, perfect for transitional weather. It is easy to wash and care for too, but is fun in that it is printed!

Lilly Pulitzer Pink Wool Turtleneck, XS- $10
This is a thin wool turtleneck purchased in 2009. It has a zipper on the back of the neck and is more slim fitting in my opinion. It is perfect for wearing under shift dresses!

NWT Talbot's Swing Jacket, Size 4- $65

This is a perfect Spring piece! It is a very flattering fit that works on just about every body type. The color is vibrant and fun, but the cute is a classic you can have in your closet for years to come!

Birthday Giveaway!

"January, you start the year off fine.

February, you're my little valentine"... and my birthday month!

The year has come and gone in the blink of an eye and in just five short days I will enter the second half of my twenties. Yes, I am turning 26 on Sunday, eek! I love birthdays and have been busy planning my little fete for the past few weeks (think pink inspired dessert buffet and fabulously chic printables) and wanted to include all of you as well. So, of course this calls for a virtual celebration which means GIVEAWAY!

In honor of my 26th birthday I am giving away a Lilly Pulitzer Calendar Girl tote (hence the song lyrics at the beginning of this post):

If you are not familiar with the Lilly totes you need to get familiar! These are FABULOUS and can be used for work, travel, school, babies or even grocery/errand bags. They are darling and you can even add a monogram for that extra pop of color...or prep!

To enter this giveaway simply leave a comment on this post by Friday, February 18th, 2011 at 1pm EST. If you feel so inclined you can also leave an idea for a future post.

Warm wishes to all the February birthdays out there! I do think it is the very best month; how can you beat all things pink, loads of fresh flowers and your birthday in the same month!?

Valentine's Day

Well, I am a little late in getting this up today, but better late than never, right?

I hope everyone has had a wonderful day today. I hope your day was filled with all the things and people that you love and of course lots of treats and all things pink! I also hope that those of you without a significant other were not brought down by today. I have always LOVED Valentine's day, but I know it gets many people that are alone down and I hope you did not let it get the best of you today. Keep you head held high and remember all the people that surround you that you love; they are reason enough to celebrate today! I am sure that somewhere down the road- a time when by your today standards you will have everything you have ever wanted- there will be a moment in your life when you will look back on this time in life and miss it. Embrace what you have and do not dwell on what is missing...it is only missing because you think it is! Cupid will shot his arrow when the time is right.

HAPPIEST OF VALENTINE'S DAYS to ALL!

Oh, and be sure to check back tomorrow for a birthday week giveaway!!

Two Years

Blessed Be Your Name
In the land that is plentiful,
Where Your streams of abundance flow
Blessed be Your name.

Blessed Be Your name
When I'm found in the desert place,
Though I walk through the wilderness
Blessed Be Your name.

Every blessing You pour out
I'll turn back to praise.
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say:
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your glorious name!
Blessed be Your name
When the sun's shining down on me,
When the world's 'all as it should be'
Blessed be Your name.
Blessed be Your name
On the road marked with suffering,
Though there's pain in the offering
Blessed be Your name.
Every blessing You pour out
I'll turn back to praise.
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say:
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your glorious name!

It is so hard to believe that it has been TWO years since my cousin Henry was in a terrible ski accident on Valentine's day weekend (also hard to believe that many of you have been reading since then!). Wearing a helmet when skiing is EXTREMELY important and had Henry not been wearing one that day he would likely not be here today. However, thankfully he did have a helmet on and he now lives to tell his story! Though Henry still has some paralyzation on the left side of his body from the accident our family has been so blessed to watch his continuous recovery and see him succeed over the past two years; we have been truly blessed! Thank you to all those of you who reached out and prayed or brought meals or arranged rides and visited our family in the hospital during that difficult time.
"The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing." Zephaniah 3:17

Movies

I have been on a movie roll recently. I feel like I have been going to so many screenings, but I love movies so it is the perfect hobby for me! This week I went to a more intimate screening for a movie that was shot here in Dallas. Brotherhood is a smaller film in the grand scheme of things (I love independent films!) and I have to say it was quite suspenseful. There were times I wanted to jump through the screen and shake one of the main characters. Minus the language this was a very interesting film with an intriguing plot. A major bonus for me was that Sam from American Dreams (many of you have read about my AD obsession over the past three years) is in the film!

Erin over at Let the Tide Pull Your Dreams Ashore tagged me to share five of my favorite movies as her Netflix list is running low. However, since she has likely seen most of my very favorite flicks I have chosen to simply include five movies that I have either watched recently or that I have been thinking about renting and watching again...because they are just that good!

Father of the Bride

A oldie but always a goody!! Both one and two will always be at the top of my list I think.

Secretariat

I have written about this film before, but I just purchased it and can hardly wait to watch it again!
Who is Clark Rockefeller
I saw this movie on Lifetime when it premiered and it is hands down the best made-for-TV that I have ever seen. SO suspenseful!
Devil's Playground
After reading Tale of a GRITS yesterday I was reminded of this documentary on Amish teenagers. It is so interesting and I learned so much I never knew about their culture.

Well, Alias is not a movie, but every season is available on DVD (unlike America Dreams...SAD). If you are ever running low I highly suggest getting started on this series. It is like a female version of 24...think fashion and romance mixed with espionage!

What are five of your favorite flicks or five movies on your mind??

FREE Printables!

I think it is safe to say you know I love printables! They are perfect for personalizing a package, favor or really adding that custom touch to your party. I was thrilled to find such a plethora of FREE Valentine's day printables available this year. I found the first three early in the week and have printed them out- I also printed out the "Be Mine" banner from the third collection. I stumbled upon the last two options this evening and thought they were too fun not to include. Enjoy and happy printing!!!

Anna and Blue Printables

Vineyard Vines Valentines

Green Apple Paperie Printables

The Rubber Punkin Valentines

Twig and Thistle Sticker Printables

Sloane Ranger Wednesday: Gardens of Gertrude Jekyll

I think it is safe to say that any garden enthusiast, especially those that also double as an anglophile, worship Gertrude Jekyll. When it comes to gardens she was, and still is, one of the most influential in the field. Jekyll was also one of the first in the field to really make gardening more of an art. She worked closely with the famed architect, Edward Lutyens (who actually built the Viceroy's home in India- that is another post for another day...when mother has time to guest blog because she is like a walking book when it comes to Lutyens. I think blog reader Wendy can attest to this as I believe she was given the British Raj tour by my mother on her trip to India last year.). Sadly, many of Jekyll's gardens have not survived the test of time. However, in recent years people have taken to restoring her projects based on her original plans. Below are several examples of Gertrude Jekyll's work around both in Europe and the United States.

Glebe House, Woodbury, CT

Upton Grey Manor Hour, UK

Isn't is evident that Gertrude Jekyll did treat the garden like a painter treats his canvas? There is so much color everywhere and everything seems to flow together like a painting. Simply stunning!

FUN FACT:

"The Jekyll name survives as a place name in the USA. Jekyll Island (originally spelled with one l) was the name given to Whale Island, off the coast of Georgia, when the colony of Georgia was founded in the early years of the 18th century. The name came from Sir Joseph Jekyll who was much admired by the colony's founder, General Oglethorpe. In 1886, it became an exclusive club and, today, it is a tourist resort in the State of Georgia."