Things I Love Thursday // 10.7.21

Old Friends Making New Memories

It's always the best when you get to spend time with the peeps who've known you since "way back when..." Staci and Greg go back to elementary school and attended the same schools through college. Rusty and Greg go back to junior high (remember who we used to call it that?) and also went to college together. Fun fact: Rusty and Staci have been together for 30 years. I actually met Rusty in a college class a couple years before I met Greg. I have a thousand stories about our friendship and if you searched the archives on this blog, you'd have a chance to read about a lot of them! We were lucky enough to have them out last weekend for the member-guest golf tournament. The weather was perfect, the food was indulgent, the drinks were delicious, and the shopping was successful. I don't think the golfing was nearly as positive, overall --but I heard it was a great time anyway and the betting outcomes made up for some of the (Greg's) shortcomings on the course.

Please be as delighted by our photo-bomber as we were!
I edited this live pic to capture the best moment of his little hop into the frame. :)

Pistola Pants

While shopping, I found a new pair of pants that I (mostly) love so much! These Archer Crossover Joggers from Pistola are a terrific fit. I love the belted waist, the flattering pleating, the length, and gathered ankle. They are so stinking cute... when you're standing (or dancing like Janet Jackson in her Rhythm Nation video). However, because of the "crossover" button-fly, they pucker out in a weird way when you sit down --like, I can slide my left hand into the opening and pull my tucked shirt down (kinda handy --but not completely awesome). So I guess I would say that they are perfect for standing occasions, sitting with your legs under a table, or dancing like "Miss Jackson, if you're nasty" --but I would not recommend them for barstools or lounge chairs --unless your photographer is far away and he captures you at the right angle (above).

Healthy Ben

Ben has finally gotten the all-clear from his vet to be off leash in the yard to enjoy running, jumping, playing, digging, destroying the monkey grass, and generally spazzing out (though, I wish he'd just skip the last three). His friend, Sarah (of the amazing panzanella salad), gave him a new toy that makes a fun noise --so wow... he's in heaven.

Children's Theatre of Charlotte

I've been volunteering at the Children's Theatre of Charlotte for about 8 years. Again, if you searched the archives around here you'd get an eyeful. The Theatre productions would seriously blow your socks off. We've seen tons of shows, ushered performances, attended fundraising galas, and visited the wonderful (attached) library on many occasions. This week, as a volunteer perk, I had the distinct pleasure of a "behind the curtain" look at the process that brings a show from concept to stage. To say it was impressive would be a huge understatement. If ever you have an opportunity to experience this level of children's theatre with a child --I would encourage you to do so. To see them experience the wonder of this art form live, will surely have you falling in love (again) with live theatre. If you're in our near Charlotte and would like to find out more about volunteer opportunities, click here (or get in touch with me).

On the set of My Wonderful Birthday Suit

The Arts in Charlotte

Speaking of fantastic arts in Charlotte, I was able to attend a great luncheon with my mother-in-law this week to hear from a panel representing several of the prominent art and cultural organizations in town. We heard about surviving the early stages of the pandemic and how these teams made creative and interesting pivots to sustain audiences and talent through the past 18 months. Moving forward, many of the organizations are keeping some of these new program features that allow virtual and modified experiences. The decision to continue offering some streaming, outdoor, and socially-distanced ways to engage with their offerings was easy to make --as many patrons have expressed their appreciation for alternative ways to enjoy the content --not to mention the organizations' ability to reach wider audiences through some of these formats and more accessible/interesting venues. 

"Hands on hips, Ladies!"

Coming soon from The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, I'm particularly interested in viewing the Annemarie Schwarzenback: Departure Without Destination exhibit (running April 2 - June 19, 2022). The brief summary of this work that was shared at the luncheon was fascinating. Visit the link to read just a snippet about Annemarie Schwarzenback --a real trail-blazer!

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We just missed Charlotte Ballet's 50th Anniversary Celebration (which closed last weekend); however, Nutcracker opens on December 3rd and tickets are on sale now. In fact, one of Piper's best friends is dancing the role of Clara this year and we couldn't be more excited to watch her shine! 

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We also heard about a ton of offerings from JazzArts Charlotte, a nonprofit organization that celebrates community enrichment through education, live performances, and musician support. In addition to youth education in the form of JazzArts Academy, summer music camps, and in-school programing, they also offer adult workshops online in partnership with UNC Charlotte. Join them in The Jazz Room --a monthly jazz concert series in uptown (with a full bar) or catch a session of The Set from home. This online, live performance happens every 4th Thursday. 

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Blumenthal Performing Arts has an absolutely incredible season lineup with something for everyone! On the theater end of things, Wicked just closed; however I'm looking forward to (the 25th Anniversary Farewell Tour of) RENT!, To Kill A Mockingbird, and Mean Girls. They're also bring Stacey Abrams and Neil deGrasse Tyson to the stage... plus a ton of music and comedy too! And if you're like me and haven't made it out to Camp North End for the immersive Van Gogh exhibit, you still have time! Additionally, I've just learned of some very cool (free and outdoor) things happening in and around our city RIGHT NOW: Intrude: Bunnies at the Park is back and will remain installed at First Ward Field through October 12th. I'm told you should see it (at least) twice; once during the day and once at night. Of Earth and Sky is a large-scale installation of poetry, ideas, and statements (from Charlotte locals) curated and installed across multiple locations through uptown forming a temporary sculpture trail through center city. This exhibit runs through October 31st. WOW... I can't wait to do it ALL! Join me?

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Things I Love Thursday // 9.30.21

Anniversagio

Cheers to 19! Mr. Jones and I tied the knot in 2002 and it's been an incredible journey since then. I think part of why it works so well is that we are both kinda dorky. For example, he took me on a surprise trip to Vegas for our first anniversary and we stayed at The Bellagio. (BTW, Vegas can be very romantic and lovely rather than trashy and insane --but you have to have a solid itinerary with those goals in mind.) Since then, we've only ever referred to our special day as our Anniversagio. Dorks. I love it. I love him and this life we've made. (p.s. Trashy and insane Vegas is also a fantastic trip --just maybe not for your first wedding Anniversagio.)

BENign

Our 8.5 month old Bernedoodle, Ben, is the sweetest, smartest, most handsomest Lemon you'll ever have the pleasure of being toppled over by. Even though he wakes us up too early every single morning, none of us can even imagine our lives without him. He's on twice-a-day medication to control his seizures, has a bum eye that's half-blind and might have to be removed someday, and recently underwent a removal of three growths on his back that our groomer found --leaving him looking like Benkenstein. We just heard this week that the pathology on the masses was benign! Such a relief.

The Cocktailery

My hugely talented friend, Tamu Curtis, has just opened the most beautiful storefront in Atherton Mills (South End) for all of your cocktail needs. Her story is fantastic and the woman is a force. The first time I met Tamu was for a cocktail-making class she gave in 2017 (when her company was called Liberate Your Palate). I blogged about it here and the cocktails we made that evening are fun to revisit all these years later! She made a huge pivot during the early days of the pandemic and she's been grinding and thriving since then. If you're local, be sure to find her new space at 2000 South Blvd. (in the building tucked behind Luna's Living Kitchen and Anthropologie). Follow her on Instagram from near or far and check out her website to get your hands on some of her beautifully curated bar accessories and accouterment. Greg and I were thrilled to attend her Friends & Family event last night (amazing sips, nibbles, sweets, music, and fun). We came home with so many gorgeous goodies! You'll be impressed by the quality and the prices!

Hamnet by Maggie O'Farrell

I picked up this book for myself back in January while spending a birthday gift certificate at our neighborhood independently-owned book store, Park Road Books. It was on the shelf near the checkout where Sally places the current "good stuff" --I have never picked up a book from that shelf and not enjoyed it! Of course, I had every intention of reading it right away but, as ever, my "want to read" list grows almost daily and somehow, this owned title kept getting pushed off. (That's the real trouble with checking so many out from the library --DEADLINES.) Wow. The historical setting was completely engaging, the writing was exceptional, and the added pleasure of listening to parts of the book on Audible made this on of the best stories I've read in awhile.

Turkey Eggroll in a Bowl

I've mentioned this recipe before. Turkey Egg Roll in a Bowl is a family favorite and fairly easy to execute. The biggest obstacle is having a pan that is big enough! All that Napa cabbage is voluminous before it cooks down. Tips: increase the turkey, don't skimp on the ginger or spicy finishing sauce, and never skip the step where you drain off the liquid after the cabbage cooks. Enjoy!

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Things I Love Thursday // 9.23.21

Guess who's back? Back again. Tammy's back. Tell a friend... If you know me, you understand how much I love Eminem despite his flaws. Let's not get into all of that. May I present to you, at long last... an overdue installment of Things I Love Thursday! 

My New Microbladed Eyebrows

Ladies, I continually thought about doing this for myself for about 2 years but always ended up putting it off because, A) it's a tattoo on your FACE; and B) it's a FACE TATTOO. Am I right? Big stuff. Granted, it is not really permanent --but you certainly can't erase it if you decide you don't like it. So... I contemplated, researched,  asked around, thought about it some more, and finally pulled the trigger. If you're in or around the Charlotte area, I am happy to refer you to my esthetician. If you're not around here, come visit! Ha! Or, do what I did: ask your friends and/or stalk the IG accounts (before and after pics) of microbladers near you and then obsessively search out their unfiltered reviews on all the other platforms to make your choice. Not gonna lie, the process is fairly uncomfortable and the price is equivalent to (more or less) 3 great pairs of jeans. The healing time is 3-4 weeks and during that period your brows change, peel, flake, and look less-than-stellar. Having said all that, I can't believe I didn't do this sooner. Cheers to saving so much time and frustration every morning!

Same day: Before, During, After

Snake Print Ruggable Runner

It's washable! That's what all the ads want you to hear first. I get it. Sounds great! But how I'm going to fit (even this runner size) into my machine is a mystery I have yet to solve. But I don't care! I immediately fell for the serpents and the colors of this Jonathan Adler Venom Sapphire Rug which could not have been a better match if the rug was custom made for our kitchen. 

Ben-Approved

A Little Getaway

Greg and I enjoyed an indulgent and fun trip to Miami recently. Thanks to his hard work and my mother-in-law's willingness to hang out with the girls, we were able to get away together for about 5 days. We stayed at the Fontainebleau South Beach and let me tell you, everything I packed was made of entirely too much fabric. Not kidding! The food, drinks, friends, weather, and people-watching were all delightfully top-notch. I am grateful for our vaccines, for the Covid tests before and after our travel, and the special time away with my guy.

Nobody Will Tell You This But Me

This memoir by Bess Kalb is the best thing I've "read" (listened to on Audible) in a long time. It's the touching, honest, hilarious, and heart-warming story of Bess's maternal grandmother and their relationship with one another. Listening to the author read it herself added another layer of meaning that will stay with me for a long time. I miss my own grandmothers very much and this was a story I needed when it fell in my lap. I love when that happens!

Volleyball

You guys. Volleyball is a very exciting sport. Especially when it is played with just enough skill --at the very particular level when mistakes and triumphs abound. It's especially enjoyable when you get to watch your kid leave her heart on the court.

New Cargo Pants

These drawstring cargo joggers from Banana Republic are my new fall favorite pants. I went into BR to check out this dress to take to Miami (a total winner and if you're shopping for dresses, consider this one and size down) and I grabbed these pants before heading to the dressing room. They are comfortable, very flattering, run little generous through the hips and bottom (thank you, BR!), and have just enough detailing to dress up or dress down. 

Panzanella Salad

This salad is amazing. I especially love that fact that my friend, Sarah, made it and did all the work and I just got to sip my wine and enjoy every bite! Sarah's the kind of cook that makes everything look effortless and easy. She'll sip her wine, tell you stories, listen to you talk about your life, and manage her household --while she chops, toasts, dresses, and serves you incredible food. I love our time together (usually around her kitchen island) even more than I love food! Here's the recipe she jumps off from for this dish. Thank you, Sarah for putting your heart in your dishes!

Target Lounge Wear

As today is the first real day with a chill in the air, I must share my absolute favorite fall loungewear. I picked these up a couple months ago and they're finally going to get some use this week as the temps around here drop into the 70s (good thing too --since our AC is out until next week). I love the pocket detail on the shirt and wide leg pant (though, they have a jogger style option as well). They could not be softer or feel more incredible. As for sizing, I went up. I wanted them slouchy and able to run right through the dryer without a problem. I bought a M shirt and L pants (drawstring at the waist and they pool at my feet --which I love).

The color is a little off in this pic. I think they're closer to the pic of the shirt (and both shirt and pants are the same fabric/color).

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Things I Love Thursday // 5.27.21

A Jolt of West Coast Love

My girlfriend, Jillian, scored an incredible deal on a flight out to Charlotte from San Diego last week and I couldn't have been happier to see her and to have some time together to catch up! Jillian and I met in grad school way back in the day. When we first moved to Charlotte, she was the only person I knew and she did an amazing job welcoming my family and showing me all the best spots! A couple short years later, Jillian took new job teaching at the University of San Diego and off she went (who could blame her?). It was fun switch roles a bit this week and take her to a couple of Charlotte's new destinations. The city has exploded in the few years she's been away! Cheers to our next visit, I already miss you! (And she heard about the flight deal through an app called Hopper.)

Yard Updates/Refresh

This yard project is so overdue. The easement beside our lot is missing a sidewalk. The city just never put one in. Over the years, the grassy area has been encroached upon by neighboring fescue seed (that's competing with our zoysia) and it's basically an eyesore. Additionally, the ivy (NOT planted by me) is out of control and taking over everything all around the yard. You all know I love my houseplants; however, yard work/pruning/weeding is not my jam. Unfortunately, the landscaping around this house has suffered from our own neglect and mismanagement. We are finally addressing a few of the more problematic areas and I'm very excited to share the progress with you. Here's just a small sneak peak of what's coming: 

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

OMGoodness. The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a book I've had on my "to-read" list for YEARS and I finally got around to picking it up. Geneva had it checked out from the library and recommended I not put it off any longer. I read it in a day --at the expense of everything else I was supposed to accomplish. Some books are like that. This was one of them. My friend, Tracie, says the movie is one of her all-time favorites. It's directed by the author of the book so I have high hopes. Have you read the book? Seen the movie? Both??

Knock Off Birkenstocks

The first time I saw the yellow suede pair of Arizona Birks on my friend, Laura, I wanted a pair of my own. However, the holidays were coming and I was making a real effort not to buy myself anything so I waited. Of course, they sold out and have never become available again (unless you want them lined in shearing  --which I do not). Anyhoo... flash forward to last week when I was INFLUENCED on Instagram into checking out the Amazon knock-offs. They're really kinda great! However, I will say, like actual Birkenstocks, these also take a little time to break in. The bonus is they have a nice cushion under the heel --which the real ones lack. They come in tons of colors and are true to size. 

Cauliflower [Florets] with Chipotle-Cashew Sauce

The recipe, from Milk Street Magazine (November/December 2019), actually calls for cauliflower steaks --but I'm super lazy and subbed prepared cauliflower florets from the bag instead. Wow. This dish was packed with flavor and I loved every bite! Whether you use 2 pounds of steaks or florets, you'll toss in olive oil, paprika, salt and pepper and roast until fork-tender in a 450º oven 20-30 minutes (flip halfway if you're doing steaks). Here's the magic: To make the sauce, stir together 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 finely grated medium garlic clove, 3/4 cup chopped roasted cashews, 1-2 chipotle chilies in adobo sauce (mined), 2 tablespoons adobo sauce, 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro, 1/2 cup neutral oil (I used olive oil), and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Spoon over the warm cauliflower. Prepare to be wowed. 

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Things I Love Thursday // 5.20.21

Cheers to Porch Time

We are through the bright yellow pollen season in Charlotte. Huzzah! That means more slow evenings on the porch watching the neighborhood walk past, visiting with friends, and enjoying cool sips.

Old Fashioneds

Speaking of cool sips --this one is the definition. Our first choice to try from the latest Unpretentious Palate Old Fashioned sampler kit was Ashely Thompson's (The Cocktailery) "Peaches is My Name." The peach, cinnamon, and pecan bitters syrup made for an incredibly flavorful and layered cocktail and the dehydrated peach slice that was subsequently infused with rich bourbon was amazing!

Outdoor Music

It was a pleasure to listen to these two, with all of their high school classmates, play their instruments so beautifully last night on the quad lawn. The cherry on top of our breezy and relaxing evening was that (to our surprise and delight), our flutist was presented with a Musicianship Award from her band director. :)

Caladium Lindenii Magnificum

Guess what? I should avoid acquiring new plants before heading out of town. I know this. And yet...

My girlfriend, Laura, via text: "Get to Lowes ASAP [pic]"

Me:

Propagation vessels are Hilton Carter for Target

Spring in the Yard

'Tis the season for magnolias and hydrangeas --two of my faves blowing up at once. Swoon. We are getting ready to do a little yard re-fresh... What's your favorite outdoor blooming plant that I should consider adding to the plan?

Papa

Here's my dad. He's been adjusting since my mom passed this last summer. Helping to adjust, have been his two big dogs (Bonnie and Baxter) and THIS little morsel, his great-grand-daughter, Sage. This pic was taken yesterday when GGPa, Sage, and Baxter went for a walk. And then I had a heart full of happiness.

The Lap Dog

Ben thinks that if I just let him try, he could definitely fit in the chair with me. As you can well imagine, it's very hard to not let him try.

Jumpsuit, Sunnies, Necklace, Earrings, "Ben's Baby"

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Things I Love Thursday // 5.13.21

Mother's Day Love

I was completely spoiled on Mother's Day and I sincerely hope you were too (if it's a "holiday" you celebrate). Mother's Day can be a little tricky for me. Aside from a brief text exchange several years ago, the last time I spoke to --or even laid eyes on my mom, was almost 11 years ago (and before that it was a rollercoaster at times --but not all the time). It's a long story. I was fortunate enough to grow up surrounded by exceptional mother figures. Toward the end of 2020, we lost my wonderful, amazing, "super grandma," badass, stepmom, Debbie, to an aggressive cancer that came out of nowhere with a fury and vengeance that took our breath away. So this year felt even more fragile. However, there's absolutely nothing I love more than being Geneva and Piper's mom and I am grateful (for myself and the girls) that my mother-in-law is vivacious, active, hilarious, and always ready for a dance party. Plus, she just moved from California to Charlotte in March! We spent most of the day with her and it was lovely. The girls chose a beautiful new cookbook (always a favorite of mine), built me a terrarium, and my all-time favorite: made me homemade cards. Greg surprised me with a new purse that I blogged about a couple weeks ago and a pair of new Printfresh pajamas (this "Lemon Drop" short sleeve set). The day was tied up with a bow when we indulged in my favorite meal (filet, grilled veggies, green salad with all of the cheese, and a giant cabernet) and watched the movie of my choice: My Octopus Teacher (so good --we all loved it). All in all, an absolutely wonderful day!

Booty Vase (+ Progress)

I love to feel like my people "get"me. :) My girlfriend, Tracie, texted me this week, "This vase is so YOU [screenshot]." Me: *gets in car and drives directly to the consignment market.* Because, seriously. Look at this booty! Also captured here is a little sneek-peek at some more progress in the living room! I mentioned a couple months ago that I bought some very cool shelves from Anthropologie. ONE of them has been backordered and should arrive at the end of this month --and "lort" knows it better at this point --because I just ran out of patience and hung the other four (with a gap in-between for the final piece). Can you imagine if Anthro sends me some little email after all these months that says, "sorry, we don't have your item"? Ugh. 

Surprise Surprises

Looky at what just arrived out of the blue! These Houseplant Jungle playing cards by Galison are a gorgeous little "hello, these made me think of you" present from my friend, Gretchen. Each card has a different plant illustration on the face and they are so beautiful that I shouldn't allow myself to actually play poker with them because I'd be too distracted by the details of the designs that I'd be certain to make a bad bet.

Bernedoodle Baby

The perspective on this shot is certainly adding to Ben's SIZE, but he really is quickly approaching 50 pounds and is just over 16 weeks. He's cuddly, clumsy, enthusiastic about having any part of your body in his mouth, and thinks hotdogs are the bomb. He's heading off to "boarding school" to learn some manners in about 3.5 weeks. We will miss him so much during the four weeks he'll be away from home. (And I can't imagine how BIG he'll be when he gets home!)

Unpretentious Palate's Latest Old Fashioned Kit

We got one of these amazing kits last winter and I'm thrilled they've put together another. Cheers to those who live in and around Charlotte because you can pre-order one of these sampler kits just in time for Father's Day (pickup on June 12th). Inside, you'll find that eight of the city's best bartenders have created unique recipes that make up their personal take on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail. Everything you need to make these eight recipes (2 servings each) --minus the bourbon, because NC liquor law doesn't allow it to be included, is inside the box. Dad's going to love you for it! 

SCIENCE

WooHoo! Just in time for travel and camp... 

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