Condition of the Gulf waters

Two weeks ago while down in Navarre and Sandestin, we saw no sign of oil or suspicious residue. In fact, schools of sting rays (at least 200) swam around us. While floating along, I also saw a sea turtle bobbing less than 50 feet away. I began to reflect after seeing these peaceful animals in their beloved habitat. I want to help and protect them, but what can I do?

Over the last 45 days of the oil disaster in the Gulf, I am just as concerned as ever. Currently the Louisiana coastline is suffering heavily, though soon that will not be the only case. My god brother is out in the Gulf waters, assisting BP with the clean up efforts. Check out his blog at slickwilliesoil.com if you're interested.

(Images from Getty, AFP)

Nuptials in Navarre

A big congratulations to Pat and Amber who got married over the weekend in fabulous Navarre Beach, Florida! I took the entire last week off and we went down to enjoy the beautiful sand and emerald waters of the gulf..

Cooking in Memphis

Steven and I love to cook when I come to town. His kitchen is pretty quaint, so I usually take the reins and he accepts the role of recipe "guinea pig." Over the weekend, we played around with a new creation and were pleasantly surprised. We'll probably tweak it a little more, but for now, our Citrus Glazed Salmon is delicious! (As you can see in the photo above, we added a little extra color to the plate with Steven's fried rice and a broccoli/carrot medley.)

A Wedding in Music City

Congratulations are in order for two dear friends who got hitched over the weekend at the beautiful Travellers Rest Plantation in Nashville, TN. I am so excited for Ryan and Sarah and wish them the very best! See y'all next month in Navarre Beach.

Continuously inspired, thanks to Ina and Martha

(WARNING; Girly alert)

What you may or may not know about me is that I heart all things Martha Stewart. Maybe it's her use of pastel colors or the marriage of vintage and modern delicacies, maybe it's her flawless taste.. with the exception of investment advice. I'm a fan.
http://www.marthastewart.com/

I'm a big Ina Garten fan as well. Her love of beautiful homes and gardens, creating photogenic French cuisine, and chic cottage living.. I'm addicted. I own her cookbooks and tune into her show every week.
http://www.barefootcontessa.com/

Sad day.

It is with great sadness that I type this entry. A loyal friend and member of the family, my dog Basil, has passed away. Imagining a life without him makes it hard to breathe. When I think about Basil's sweet face, one who had been by my side for eleven years, I am indebted to the heavens for letting me have him for as long as I did.

Crazy that a dog can do that to you, right? Or not. They live for us and love us so much, unconditionally.. and that kind of love and loyalty never seems to last as long as we would like.

Photo by Lauren Lallone

Twas a very good year

Looking back on 2009, I'm amazed with just how much happened! Maybe that's a part of getting older though, realizing and appreciating moments both specifically and as a whole. I will remember to look back fondly on this year of years. I am blessed and thankful with healthy and happy family and friends.

With the passing of every year, also comes the sad passing of many greats who have made impacts on our lives in one way or another..