So... this is 30. My birthday was about five weeks ago, and this year is dwindling to a close in a matter of hours... so what better time to highlight three decades of living, memories, mistakes? Of worries and agonizing loss and big surprises and timeless stories. It's really kinda hard to wrap my head around, but I'm getting there. But, thirty? Deana Carter said it best: "I still remember when thirty was old..."

I'm kicking off this decade of life as single for the first time since I was living under my parents' roof--which is exciting and somber, and daunting and new.

I want to do everything and do it well, to be the best at it all--competing with no one but myself. And I've asked myself why? What's to gain from another board position? Another project? Another after work endeavor? And you know, I honestly don't know. What I do know is that I was never equipped to sit still--being busy is what brings me joy... my Mimi lovingly likened me to "a maggot in hot ashes" but even I know there's a scarily fine line between the allure of bustle and exhaustion of burnout.

This year, more than ever, I'm asking, where did the time go? I've bounced from small group Monday to Junior League on Tuesdays. Networking events and social hours here and there, and feeling guilty that I'm not working out more, or taking Maizie to the dog park, or savoring and growing from my alone time. How do you snap out of that routine when it's so ingrained in who you are? So, here I go with my attempt at rewiring myself.

Last year, I scribbled out 29 things I have learned in my blip on earth. So in an effort to have some sort of documentation of where I am now, here are 30 more.

1. This one is a little bit of a repeat from last year, but it demands mentioning again, as it's been a theme for me this year: the best of friends just effortlessly become family. Similarly, this year has been a test--lots of relationships to stare at long and hard and consider: is this truly good? Only a few are meant to stand the test of time and that's okay: ridding yourself of people who aren't for you just frees up more room for the ones who build you up, warrant your love and attention, and renew your soul by filling up those little corners of your life where they seemed to just live all along.

I undoubtedly have some of the most grounded, loyal, hilarious and thoughtful friends in the world, and I pinch myself for how lucky I am, and how much better of a person I am because of them.

2. Thirty now isn't what it was when our parents were thirty. It's okay--gasp, even standard--to feel lost. It's taken a while, but I am comfortable in the unknown, knowing it's never permanent, and most of the growth in life comes from wading through the gray area.Sometimes it's easier said than done, but embrace it... from what I hear, being lost is just a part of life. Rest easy, you'll get to where you're going. One of my favorite movies this year ("This Is Where I Leave You") has the best, best, best quote interwoven into its script:


3. It's 100% okay to miss or love someone you know you can't have in your life. Sometimes the absolute hardest thing to do is turn around and walk the other way. You really are stronger than you think you are.

4. Eyebrow threading hurts like a bitch. Jury is still out on if the precise result is worth the endless eye-watering. Just trust me--don't do it. Don't listen to what I said about being stronger than you think you are.

5. Splurge on bras, towels, yoga pants--and I've said it before and I'll say it again: find a cheap mascara that works for you.

6. I will always be judgmental about bbq and tacos. #texasforever

Relatedly, sometimes you have to get out into the world just to truly gauge how wonderful the place in which you started out is.

7. A hangover at thirty is far, far worse than a hangover at twenty. After you rage, take advil before you go to bed... drink double the water you think you should and keep makeup wipes and b12 drops in your nightstand. Trust.

8. Intentionally spending time away from a screen is one of the most energizing things for my soul. Being outside is even that much better. I have been intentional in taking time away from anything with an "i-" prefix, and subsequently made mental notes about how much more clearly I can think, and how much more I appreciate those around me.

9. You really need to trudge through the hell of a bad job to fully understand how great a good job is. That said, when you find that good job, cherish it and work like hell. You spend way more time with colleagues than you do the people you love at home, so do your part to make it a good environment. Don't complain, don't be entitled.

10. People remember the things you cook well... so find a recipe (or five). Make your own signature dish, and savor the way your heart fills up when you're asked to bring it to the next shindig.

11. I'll never be a capsule wardrobe kinda girl, but there is something deeply empowering about finding the outfit formula that suits you...me? Trench, wedges, statement necklace. Invest in good pieces and getting dressed will never feel like a chore.

12. There's nothing wrong with being a creature of habit--every day I start with strong coffee and NPR, and every day I end with yoga pants and puppy snugs. And I'm all the happier for it.

13. Facetime your parents. Even if you see them frequently or live nearby--it's really cool to see them learn a technology that evolved in our era, but better yet, realizing that they're not the same age as they were when you were living at home is sweetly sobering, and every moment you have can be precious--even if it's on a screen.

14. It will greatly benefit your soul to know what soothes you--and to take strides to create an environment for it. I started mindfulness exercises and meditating this year, made more time for yoga, and yeah--even essential oils--and as much as I formerly wrote it all off as pseudo-witchcraft, it has really changed me. It doesn't all have to be holistic--being outside with Maizie, no headphones, just immersing myself in the world refuels me like little else can. Some nights, sharing a bottle (or three) of wine with a girlfriend is the absolute perfect formula to pull me back on my feet. Figure it out and go with it.

15. Just because crop tops or fringe ain't your thing doesn't mean you don't belong at the music festival. Plan to go to at least one in your life (I wholeheartedly recommend ACL!!). I daresay you won't find that level of fun at many other events.

16. Take the time to learn what your insurance covers and what your investments mean--car, home, health, 401k. You're a grown ass woman. No more excuses (see also: My Resolutions 2016).

17. When you take the time to engage in debate with someone, keep it respectful. No one being challenged by ignorance or arrogance--especially regarding topics of passion... remember that in the throes of this political season. ;) And also, do your homework. Educate yourself.

18. Always trust your gut. Give people the benefit of the doubt until their actions don't warrant it anymore. And when you're feeling rough, take a long shower, blow-dry your hair and vacuum your place. It's kind of tough to feel down when you're looking good and your home is spiffed up.

19. A fridge without multiple cheeses, salsa and an abundance of wine is just a frosty, lit case of sadness and lost potential.

20. The Avett Brothers said it best... "decide what to be, and go be it." There's no true formula for happiness in this world, and everyone's chasing a different dream--but the truest lesson I've learned is that you have to pave your own way, and strive to be true to yourself. Stop seeking validation that is empty anyway. You won't be the girl that everyone is for in this lifetime, but that's okay--cling to those who you are for.

21. And don't beat yourself up if you didn't accomplish everything on your to-do list over the weekend. Hell, don't beat yourself up at all. The world will do that plenty. You have to be your own biggest fan in this lifetime. Learn to look at your hurt as yet another thing you've overcome--nothing is a true loss if you take the time to learn from it.

Also? This is somewhat related: remember how painfully curated social media is. Your life is way better than you're likely giving it credit for.

22. Buy an address book, keep it updated. I really love that I've had friendships that have spanned a long enough timetable that I own a tattered, whited-out collection of addresses to prove it.

23. It's totally okay to have a theme song... orrrr soundtrack.

24. Back up your beloved photos to something that has nothing to do with barometric pressure.

25. It's totally acceptable for dreams and expectations to evolve. We're always growing, so the things we want and hope for in life really need to shift right along with us.

26. Take the time to truly connect with people. Put your phone down and listen to what you're being told. Make plans and stick to them. I want to be remembered as the girl who you could call at 3 a.m. with whatever quandary you had... the one who sent cards for no apparent reason, remembered dates--big and small, and was so crazy about her little dog, that she baked all of her treats and shared them with all of her friends' dogs too.

27. Go to great depths to find your cause. Pour your heart and soul into it. Nothing is more heartwarming than getting lost in helping someone else... big or small.

28. Learn to say no. This overlaps into so many areas of life--professionally, personally... it is empowering and offers a sense of direction not found many other ways. Take charge of your own life and truly embrace the things that you want to spend your time doing.

29.  Make it a point to take food to a new mom. Tell her how well she's doing... and ask her how she feels. I've had so many dear friends become mamas over the past handful of years, and very often, all they want is to sit down and vent about mamahood. Listen to them, make them feel heard.

30. One of the toughest lessons I've learned is how the idea of "home" changes. You should know you can always go home again... but in the end, it's the people around you who make "home" what it is.




Here we go, thirty.

my darling pup girl is eight today. EIGHT. sixty-four in dog years. as I scrambled her eggs this morning, she blinked wearily as she politely sat nearby, watching as the runny mess sizzled in the pan before me. I felt a pang in my heart as I hoped her drowsy blinking was just a result of the early morning hour, and not her aging little body.

I'm sure I've told the story here before, but I got my sweet maizie the Christmas of my senior year of college. she wriggled onto my right shoulder and into my heart instantaneously. she was mine. and lo and behold, as the years have trudged on, she has been my constant companion every single day. from college graduation and moving to birmingham, moving to dallas, losing my job and heading back to waco... the move to nashville, the job shifting here, losing my mimi, losing my mom. I guess an eleven-pounder doesn't have much choice rather than tagging along, but if she had the capacity to be a decision-maker, I have zero doubts she'd be right next to me, every step of the way.

I'm a "dog person" about as much as is possible. she sleeps next to me every single night, she gets washed with my salon shampoo, she has a dedicated drawer for her wardrobe, I bake her homemade dog treats and she eats scramble eggs every weekend, and I save the last bite of whatever I'm eating--at each and every meal--for her. my daily routine heavily revolves around her and I wouldn't change it for the world. ST might say my treatment of her borders on "worship" but why wouldn't it? she has brought me the most immense joy and love. there's something so fulfilling and heartwarming about the adoration of a dog. she is the most perfectly content when she's curled up next to my body, and there her palpable (paw-pable? lawl.) joy when I walk in the room. I thank God for my little noodle munch, and am so excited to return home to her and shower her with homemade treats and pupcakes.

happy birthday, sweet maizie! I know you aren't firing up the laptop to read blogs today, what with your lack of opposable thumbs and all, but you deserve all of the attention and more. thank you for all of the sweetness you bring to me, every day.

here's a little of what I've been listening to, as of late. rocking leon bridges on vinyl maybe a little bit too often. and naturally, missed the window to get tickets to his show at the ryman in march. george ezra and leon bridges and hozier have voices that will just haunt you in the best way possible. we saw alessia cara at ACL and she kicked so much ass. I just want to be her BFF. meg mac's song will be your new power anthem, I can never hear enough of the bahamas, and the arcs are dan auerbach (of black keys' fame) new situation. I'm digging it.

we've hit that stride: the last quarter of the year when the days dissolve at an ever-increasing pace, weekends are always full, and you've just swapped the sundresses for boots and all at once, it's Christmas eve. every year, I swear I'll savor it more--that I won't let fall melt into winter, and then just wake up in a new year--and here it is, almost November. I'm attempting to hold myself accountable by putting the words on a screen--that by typing them out, and confessing my goal to stay present and to treasure the season, it'll be more likely to happen. here's hoping!


here's what I've had going:


reading | just finished the much-anticipated "the clasp" (sloane crosley). the lady is above and beyond, one of my favorites of all time, and I was so excited to tackle her first fiction work. she's endlessly clever and hilarious--so relatable. I loved it--like, stayed up until 2 a.m. on a school night, crying as I folded the book closed, loved it. If you aren't ready to commit to a full-fledged book situation, follow her on twitter @askanyone. brilliant banter comin' atcha.

And I just dove into my first jojo moyes book ("me before you")--any jojo moyes fans out there?

jamming out | hozier's live album is on repeat. as is ryan adams's 1989. we went to ACL a couple weeks ago (!!!) and I've been on a father john misty kick ever since. also digging adele's new single. as is everyone else who has a pulse.

browsing | calligraphy class info. ebay steals. my pinterest boards. an NPR article on investing.

donning | I'm about as #basic as they come in that I squeal over fall clothing. I finally invested in a trench coat that I am getting a ton of wear out of... and I'm having mad love for flannel tops too. oh! and I am head over heels for the baggy work pant trend. I just got these (red and black) and these (navy and charcoal), and basically wear them weekly. the geniuses at j. crew get all of the heart emojis from me this season.

watching | total transparency? right now, I am watching "titanic." (and yes--I'm still a tinge bitter that one of the girls I attended the theater show of, back in 1997, ruined the ending before I got to see it for myself). generically? I am loving "homeland" this season, and also have gotten into "casual" on hulu--have you seen it? I've also been bingeing on "girls" so I can be refreshed when it returns in january.

coveting | this coat. this campy watch.

sipping on | caramel apple spices. again... #sobasic.

jazzed about | my (gatsby-themed) birthday party! first trip to DC for work. the unstoppable force that is baylor football.

grateful for | my girlfriends. my health, and the health of my family. life in this amazing city. and of course, my sweet pup.

latest news | so, let's see... I haven't truly blogged anything of substance in months, so a quick play-by-play would have to include:

•  finally going to ACL--which was every bit as amazing as I thought it would be. favorite acts include shakey graves, father john misty, alessia cara, walk the moon, sturgill simpson. 

• I kicked off the new job in september--big adjustment from higher ed world, but so far, so good. to celebrate the new job and my impending big birthday, I splurged on that bag I've wanted since college. 

• my newest nephew made his debut earlier this month. I hosted nearly thirty women for an inaugural "baylor women in nashville" event. we hosted our third-annual byop party--complete with pumpkin carving, my favorite chili and the best company. phew! like I said... it's been busy. 

up next | the remaining ten weeks of the year include a lot of travel, the holidays, my 30th... a pretty full docket.

I'm kicking myself for not taking the time to scrawl out a "30 by 30." and thus, I'll be implementing my own spin with a "30 in my 30th year" sorta thing--lots of self-improvement and new hobbies on the horizon, if you're into that kinda thing.

...and now? off to watch homeland... my adoration for carrie mathison's crazy knows no bounds.

have a good week, pretties!

1. Today is my last day at Vanderbilt. For all intents and purposes, higher ed is all I have known for the vast majority of my career, and to put it behind me is a lot more challenging and emotional than I originally anticipated. I have met some incredible people, had some tremendous and unparalleled opportunities and truly learned every single day. Making this decision has been incredibly bittersweet, and I would be lying if I said I wasn't more than a little hesitant to switch this gear. Generically, I believe I have always assumed I don't adjust well to change, but as I get a little older (nay, wiser!), I think I might just thrive on it--as anxiety-ridden as it may be initially. I really savor a new challenge, a fresh environment, the chance to prove myself all over again. I am excited about all of that--but as change goes, hindsight is 20/20--so I am cautiously upbeat. Wish me luck.

2. In a totally shallow report, I just replaced the majority of the contents of my makeup bag. Holy hell... why is the good shit so expensive? That being said, I really, really love brand new makeup with it's unscuffed packaging and those grainy smooth, pigmented surfaces. Relatedly: go buy this fabulous lipstick. It looks good on everyone! New favorite. And grab some of this while you're at it. Your complexion will love you for it. Have you found any new products as of late?

3. So, September is officially here, and Nashville got the memo to kick it on up to the 90s again. Neat. "Ready" doesn't begin to cover how I feel about skinny jeans tucked into booties. A steaming coffee cup, buttery soft blanket and long book--curled up on the patio and watching the fog lift from the hills beyond my house. About scarves strategically-yet-sloppily tucked into quilted jackets. And soups and baking parties and pumpkins (NOT PSLs--I'm one of the lone ladies with an aversion to the stuff... do you know how much sugar is in that junk?!). So yeah... I'm ready. What do you think--bring it on, autumn, or six more weeks of summer--groundhog-style?

4. We're heading to Birmingham to BBQ on Sunday!! I'm certain I've mentioned that's where ST and I met, so it's always a nostalgic jaunt down 65 when we make the trip. We have friends who became family there--who happen to make the most amazing ribs imaginable--and I'll have my favorite peach shortbread in tow.

5. COLLEGE FOOTBALL IS BACK. Baylor kicks off at 6 tonight, I have a bet riding on the spread and oh my gosh, all is right in the world again.

//via.//



Happy Labor Day weekend!!

And hey! Happy September!!

Talk about a hiatus.

This summer has been all kinds of things: relaxing, yes. Unusually stressful, and overwhelmingly good. I feel like fall is creeping on in and I've hardly sat still for the past three months... which usually is the ideal condition for me to do me, but I think this time, my plate is pouring over on all sides.

Summer officially kicked off with our extended vacay in May--a week in St. Thomas with friends and a week in Texas at home with my family. Both were incredible--but I definitely realized that an early-summer vacation lends itself to being a little burnt out and a LOT envious of everyone around you and their trips come June, July and August. Note to self: plan vacays no earlier than mid-June when possible.

My boss was out on maternity leave for the past several months, so while work was exceedingly busy (in the best way possible), the absence of my partner-in-crime (it's a two-woman office) left me a bit overworked and a little lonely. The next year of Junior League responsibilities is officially underway and I'd be lying if I said I have a good grasp on what I'm doing. Ladies (and gents?), I am the social media chair for JL Nashville this year... and it's quite the undertaking. One of the biggest chapters in the country and the task of relaying all of the information is all mine. That said, I'm doing some social media and marketing work for my barre studio too. Social media maven, right here. And since that's not quite enough to fill my plate, I decided to lead a bible study for my small group too. Amen.

And now? I just resigned from the job I love so much to shift gears entirely. I'm excited, mostly--it's incredibly bittersweet, because I have the most incredible boss in the world. I love my work. I know I'll stay in touch with my boss and former colleagues, and while a little of me thrives on change, the more emotive side of me is just feeling allllll of the emotions. It'll be a great change for me, but with change comes uncertainty and adjustment, and with all I've juggled this summer, I'm not entirely sure the time was ideal to shake up that soda bottle, but hey--opportunity never comes at a convenient time, right?

I have the best of intentions for this little blog of mine... I think of quirky and endearing posts--and then I get immersed in work or making plans, or hey, just enjoying something outside of a screen. You can't fault a girl for that, right? In this season of life where so much is changing, it's not unheard of to see the space evolve right along with it. I was hesitant to that for a while, but it's to be expected, I think.

I turn 30 in just over three months. I'm not scared of it by any means... it sounds daunting--as if the checklist of life is looming, and I'm riiiiight here instead of over there, where most 30-year-olds should be. I know that's a total misconception, but life around you tells a different story. Mostly? I'm excited to turn 30. It feels like an achievement--like, I made it here. Sometimes I floated on through, and sometimes I scratched and clawed my way to get here. But dammit, I'm here. And I'm proud of who I am and who I've fought to become.

My grandiose plans for a "30 by 30" list clearly fell by the wayside, but a "31 by 31" just might be on the horizon. Nashville is still wonderful... the traffic is worsening by the day as the droves head to make their homes here, but otherwise, I love my second home here and after three years, am totally settled. I miss home tremendously. That'll never change. My brother had a big health scare, my friends are having babies, my parents are nearing retirement--the world (and life in Texas) keeps spinning and I watch via text message and social media because I chose to move here to make my own life. It's tough sometimes. I know I'm missing out on a lot as I forge the path to keep becoming me.

So, what's next? Obviously the new job, come September. Football season!!! ST surprised me with ACL tickets for our anniversary, so we're off to Austin in October. My 30th (and subsequent glitzy, Gatsby party) is in November, and you know what comes next. Yeah, I see you, 2016.

So, I'm still here. I won't make any promises of plentiful posts (hey, alliteration) or super evocative content, but I am still here.




High points from the summer:

• sending friends off to their next destination! (and thankfully, no one will be too far away).
• a few shows--Zac Brown, The Who, Lord Huron... all amazing. Especially Zac Brown.
• celebrating ST's birthday, two friends' weddings, and my cousin's high school graduation (and other friends' birthdays too! --including TheSkimm's third birthday!)
• scuba-diving in St. Thomas with my love.
• bunking in a hotel room with five of my dearest friends back home, after getting stuck in the mud at aforementioned friend's wedding reception (Texas downpours, you're to blame).
• driving all over the great state of Texas, all in the name of spending as much time with the people I love as I could manage (Waco -> East Texas -> Dallas -> Waco -> Houston -> Waco -> Mexia -> Waco in a week).
• camping with my crazy family, making s'mores alongside my baby nephews and niece, and hearing my brothers' and dad's laughs in person.
• buying a turntable and splurging on 90 records in one day (Nashville is the sorta place that's easy to do that sorta thing).
• hosting our somewhat-annual Independence Day grillfest.

I've always been obsessed with the Space Age--not the intricacies of intergalactic goings-on, per se--but the history surrounding the Space Race... the decades of exploration and excitement. And yes, like every other kid growing up in early '90s America, I begged my parents to send me to Space Camp (you can guess how that went), Apollo 13 is one of my favorite movies, and I wrote many a riveting elementary school report on Sally Ride. So, clearly I am chomping at the bit for the upcoming mini-series "The Astronaut Wives' Club." I just started reading the book and am completely entranced... being in a relationship is tough enough, but these women raised families and portrayed the quintessential Americana vibe, donning their warmest housewife smiles, all while supporting the insane antics their husbands wholeheartedly dove into--always with unknown outcomes. And they forged incredible bonds while doing so.

Here's a really cool interview from last summer with several of them--disappointingly, several of the marriages collapsed, but yet the friendships forged on.

...coming at you live from the bustling metropolis that is Lorena, Texas!! I have been intently enjoying my extended vacation from work--we spent nearly a week in St. Thomas with friends (GO if you ever have the opportunity), and then ST headed back to Nashville for work and I skipped on over to Texas to see family and such. I was hesitant to leave work for two weeks--especially with my boss out on maternity leave--but the break has been so much more therapeutic than I expected. I mean... I'm kinda having a difficult time absorbing that I need to mentally check back in to Real Life in the not too distant future.





So, I wholeheartedly indulged in island life for a good bit, then immediately came back to my roots... a dear friend was married the day after I arrived here, and I've spent the past week trekking all over Texas (Dallas to Houston anyway) to love on friends (and their babies!), shopped my little heart out in Waco (a necessary errand every time I come home) and today I'll witness my baby cousin graduate high school before joining my big crazy family on our annual camping trip. 

Life is good today.

In the meantime, as you wait with bated breath for my endless slew of tropical photos, here's a short list of what's up with that!




 ...errr, me: 

reading | Dana Perino's "And The Good News Is..." also really itching to start "The Astronaut Wives' Club" (by Lily Koppel) as I am obsessed with that era and all things space and NASA.

browsing | In a manner that is not at all reflective of my typical habits, I have but three windows open, currently... gmail, blogger and reader. Aside from an influx of shameless vacation photos, I've really tried to disconnect from my phone and technology as much I can. And it has been fantastic.

donning | Old Navy? Shift dress game strong. I grabbed this and this this week. I don't do a lot of mall shopping in Nashville, because my anxiety with rude crowds would inevitably lead to homicide at some point. I also finally found this dress here in Waco! (sold out in Nashville and online). Target has been rocking the swimwear, per the usual--I got this top and this top (and replaced my forever old, but ever-reliable black bottoms... which took a day in St. Thomas to realize uhh, yeah, the elastic in these pups is SHOT. now would be the time to splurge on a $15 pair of bottoms, Meg.)

Otherwise, my "at home" attire consists solely of nike shorts, lululemon crops and old navy tank tops. It's quite a glamorous life I lead.

watching | Catching up on The Bachelorette as I have late night time when pops + jules have hit the hay. also, ST and I started Bloodline and I'm all about getting back into that when I get home

wishing | that "vacation" from work constituted authentic "vacation." I've spent more time on email than I care to mention thanks to summer print deadlines.

jazzed about |  my baby cousin's graduation! seeing extended family on my mom's side... and getting back to Nashville, ST and Maizers... and actually getting into ironing out some of our summer plans.

sipping on | Beer. Texas = beer.

wondering | How the hell could my cousin be graduating?! I remember the exact day she was born, May 16, 1997--my mom called me at school (I was in fifth grade), and I was called to the office--and subsequently had to climb over all of my classmates, as we were sprawled on the floor watching a movie in a dark classroom--to hear the news. Sweet memory.

DGAF | Caitlyn Jenner. I mean, way to go, Bruce... you do you. Why the hell does everyone care so much? Isn't there enough to worry about? Everyone has a freaking opinion about ev-er-y-thang and it just chaps my ass to hear and read so many opinions. Carry on. There are bigger fish to fry... fish you actually can control. Or something.

grateful for | yes, it's redundant, but this vacation was nothing short of heavenly. I've never been one who craved big-time vacations, but we have friends who so graciously invited us to join them on their vacation--and they were an absolute blast. Travel with others can be tricky, but it was such a memorable, hilarious, exciting and beautiful week. I feel really lucky to have them in our lives, and nearby in Nashville--they're the epitome of "good people." 

I promise an onslaught of vacation pictures soon--St. Thomas AND Texas! 

Three years.

Three. More than 1000 days...

How?

This place has officially--as of today, June 1--been "home" for three years--longer than any other home base I've had since college. I made the move to Nashville for a few reasons--mostly for ST and our relationship, but largely because I was satiating a nagging itch for a change of pace. New surroundings. A fresh routine. And bit-by-bit, I found it all... but mostly, I expanded my family and I found a home.

Life as a resident of Nashville kickstarted with a job I appreciated, residing in a trendy-esque zip code, and finally experiencing day-to-day--the good, bad and ugly--with my guy. My familiar comforts of a few decades at home virtually dissolved overnight--the fact of the matter is, I committed to little to no mental prep about all I was leaving in Texas... my hometown, my network of family and friends, my beloved job. I felt my move date imminently creeping up as I packed box after box and rattled off my tearful goodbyes, but looking back, I vaguely sensed an eleventh-hour minor panic about making new, good friends, about fitting in. Mind you, my prototypical ESFJ self had never really let me down in the avenue of melding right into most groups I was ever dropped into, and yet, as the first few weeks of Nashville life rolled by, I desperately missed the company of my Texas girlfriends and felt the gnaw of their absence in my life. Aside from a few Twitter contacts (some of whom have since become some of my best friends), I had absolutely no one to lean on aside from ST.

But as it happened, most of these distant Twitter girls had also recently transplanted to Nashville: we were all braving the gray, murky water in the same proverbial boat.

And brave it, we did, wholeheartedly diving onto the pathway together, one happy hour and TV night at a time. As I did my part to foster these friendships, I eased into what I now think of as my grown-up self (if I can be so bold). ST and I immersed ourselves in a church we love, and I joined the junior league. I (somewhat impulsively) became a nanny to fill my scant spare time, and ST and I carefully honed our own routines of menial tasks like grocery shopping and exploring new dinner haunts.The weeks became months, I was confident in not summoning my GPS app on a daily basis, and suddenly? I had my grocery store, and my dry cleaners, and my dog groomer, and this? This was home.

As infectiously charming as Nashville has been for me, the people are truly what have done it for me. They're family. ST, especially... who knew sharing a home could deepen and season a relationship, right? ;) In all seriousness, he has been so tremendously supportive and encouraging of every single thing that I do and I couldn't for one second imagine trotting down this trail without him.

I'm actually home in Texas this weekend for a wedding, a graduation and a camping trip (yes, I know). Last night at the wedding, a good friend began with, "so... are you feeling it? Nashville lifer?" And without hesitation, I felt the smile spread across my face as I nodded slightly and said, "you know... I think so."

There are absolutely some elements of Texas that will unequivocally never be able to be replicated elsewhere for me... but all things considered? I daresay I've found my way home.

Here we go, another debaucherous season of the Bachelor franchise has eeked its skeezy way to the network! I am a huge fangirl of both Britt and Kaitlin (as you are well aware) last season, so I wasn't really peeved about the twist on this season as many seemed to be.

While I don't really think the multiple guy scenario yields itself to the quality commentary that comes from a quality season of the Bachelor, I can't resist a good overview!

• Loving their dresses... they both look amazing.
• Wow, the intros are so awk, both of them on full display for everyone's exchanges. 
• So, basically half the guys are from Nashville and the other half are personal trainers.
• Whoaaaa, drunk Ryan. Button it up.
• My top picks: Ian! Joe from Kentucky (moonshine! nice touch!), Joshua the welder from Idaho, Ryan from Florida (dying over that scruff and suit), Ben the software guy, Ben from California who was in the NFL. Cory from Pearland (is he the lone Texan?), JJ "I'd love to puck you," Tanner with the tissues.
• Not feeling: Jared from Rhode Island... yoga healer Tony. Kupah the overzealous entrepreneur. Corey the former investment banker. Shawn the "amateur sex coach." Not really feeling any of the three Nashville guys. The stripper-attorney has to go too. Clint from Chicago looks like he might be in WWE on the side.
• Dark horses! Where ya at?
• Fun fact: Shawn B. is from the same hometown as some of our closest friends. Apparently a really great guy, my sources report.
• A little surprised that Kaitlin was chosen over Britt... but happy, nonetheless.
• The music they're playing is eerily similar to the score of Homeland. Is there a terrorist in the house? Is Carrie Mathison looming by the pool?
• Poor Britt. She really looks blindsided. And now the tears. 
• Chris Harrison is such a jokester. I mean, he's had a decade or so to hone those mad skills.
• I want to be best friends with Kaitlin. She just seems like the coolest chick, right?
• Hahaha, Chris looks so grim when he explains she still has to go through the rose ceremony. "You're the bachelorette." As if "bachelorette" = POTUS or some such.
• Awww, the guys' excitement about Kaitlin is really cute.
• You're not "esstatic" about it, Justin. You might be "ECSTATIC," however. In which case, I also think you need to calm down.
• This Ian cat is a charmer.
• Loving that welded rose!! How crafty and cool. 
• Kaitlin's confidence and comfort is so easily discernible now that she's The One. 
• Let's get to that rose ceremony! 
• Hahaha, she's thrilled he told her that he voted for Britt because it's easier to knock him out now.
• It's funny--I think I'm more forgiving to the varied personalities of female contestants... I'm a little more critical of the dudes.
• Ahhh, JJ has a daughter! ...and a terrible midwestern accent. I like him, but voices are big for me...
• She is really, really giving him good face.
• The Nashville dentist reminds me a lot of Nate Archibald's politico cousin... what was his name? Tripp?
• That is a huge ass wine glass. I need something similar.
• Shawn B. has a McConaughey vibe about him.
• Yayyyy, and he gets that rose!
• I like him... just not loving the hair swoop situation. I have him in my top 5.
• What is happening with this Brady cat?
• Okay, that's admirable.
• Wait... he's going to go find Britt? 
• Oooooh, actually... I'm putting two and two together! Brady is from Nashville, and I saw recently via insta that Britt was in Nashville... could there be an ongoing relationship happening currently? 
• Yay, Texas boy was chosen!
• They all don't look nearly as attractive when they're lined up next to each other on that chopping block.
• Oh gosh... it's literally broad daylight when they're leaving. Talk about long night.
• Onto the previews--looks like ABC found their travel budget once again. No more passing off South Dakota as an exciting locale.
• Was that the Alamo?!
• Uh oh... that was Moonshine Joe professing his love... he must make it pretty far.
• Riverwalk! They ARE in San Antonio!
• Amy Schumer!!!!
• Oooh! A death threat! Maybe this 
• Whaaaat.... Nick??
• I always liked him until he called Andi out for shacking up on the After the Final Rose sitch.
• She really is kissing everyone...
• Maybe don't broadcast the breathy moaning.
• Tears. Drama. Sex. Gang's all here!
• Oh man... if she slept with Nick and then told them all, and now they want to murder him, that would sort of be karma in its best form.
• Oh man! So much happening!! So many emotions!
• Just like that, I'm sucked back into this tornado.
• Is Britt really still crying?
• Ooooh, I'm excited about that little reveal.
• My really premature top five--err, six...seven--are Ian, Shawn B.,  JJ and Ben the former NFL-er, Ryan from Florida. And Joshua the rose welder because making flowers out of metal is kind of badass in my book. And Chris/Tripp van der Bilt.

What do you think? Are you watching this season?

My heart breaks for my hometown today.

You've probably heard of the insanity that transpired in Waco yesterday. Biker gangs opened fire in a restaurant in a well frequented shopping area in what appears to have been an orchestrated plan. It sounds crazy to read out loud: biker gangs. This isn't a series on FX--this is the town I grew up in, the place my parents chose to make a home.

To the outside world, Waco doesn't have a sterling reputation to begin with. I can't tell you how many dozens of times, upon meeting people for the very first time, I'm inundated with Branch Davidian jokes. Or interrogated about Baylor Basketball... basically been the focus of someone's mock concern due to having grown up in what was obviously such a terrible part of the world.

For the first handful of times this happened, the formerly polite version of me would feign amusement, and essentially change the subject. Gradually, I grew more defensive. Now? I curtly reply that David Koresh's reign ended with his death TWENTY-TWO YEARS AGO, and seeing as I was the ripe age of 7... no, no I wasn't ever a card-carrying member of his cult.

I don't have a reasonable explanation for what happened yesterday. It's heinous, what happened. I am dumbfounded, that in this day and age, so much hate exists at all, much less for something as frivolous as a turf war. My brother is a policeman back home, and every single time a disaster like this goes down--of any magnitude--I hold my breath as I stare at news tickers and attempt to seem casual as I check in with my family. He's defending the people of my beloved hometown (near it anyway), and when situations like this arise, my anger level skyrockets. Being 700 miles away doesn't help my cause.

While I can't explain the senselessness of incidents like yesterday's, I do, however, get really tired of people instantly labeling a place as "BAD." Tragedy happen everywhere, every day--the difference is, people have come to expect terrible things to happen in large cities:

• Remember that bombing in Olympic Park in Atlanta back in '96? I mean, I remember it, but my first thought of Atlanta falls in line somewhere with the Braves or Falcons, and Coca-Cola and Chick-Fil-A and godawful traffic.
  
• When I think of Boston, I don't instantaneously think of the marathon bombings, even in spite of the recent sentencing. I envision how richly historic the city is, with all of the universities and landmarks... and how I can't wait to visit later this year.
  
• When I envision Oklahoma City, I don't immediately think of Timothy McVeigh. Oddly enough, I think of tornadoes and small-town life and all of the amazingly friendly people I met in college who were Okies.
  
• Perhaps the most debatable example--when I think of DC and NYC, I don't immediately think of 9/11 (and if you did, I wouldn't be surprised)--I am reminded of monuments and museums, shopping and shows, politicos and bustle... and how much fun I've had in both of these cities.

I realize much of this can be attributed to the size of these locations--not many people know about Waco, if you haven't passed through, spent time there, or know someone there. It's human nature to attribute what you know to what you've heard. The closest comparison to be made is that of Columbine or Sandy Hook--I couldn't tell you one thing about either of those places other than the tragedies they've faced at the hands of delirious gunmen.

I'm here to tell you that Waco? Is a pretty incredible place.

Kids grow up with a respect for land and country, a heartfelt connection to their roots. I often liken my childhood to a Rockwell painting--everyone knows everyone (or seems to) in Waco. We were raised with a strong sense of valuing and respecting our elders--and veterans and servicemen and women--and their stories. Waco was where my faith was planted and bloomed. And now, every time I return home, there are a dozen new causes that have sprouted--people everywhere are just yearning to help their fellow man. School rivalries run deep, but the respect is there, all the same. It's rather easy to make a name for yourself in Waco, to use it as a platform to dive into this big crazy world. Yes, I speak from experience.

The size is ideal--just about 200,000 people tucked halfway between Dallas and Austin. There is an abundant medical field, a fabulous university (not biased at all), lots of unique shopping, some of the best Mexican food known to man, my favorite grocery store in the world, and tons of history. And it's home to Joanna & Chip Gaines, as if you didn't know. Dr. Pepper was founded in Waco. The city is home to lots of pro athletes (and former athletes). Several musicians and actors make their homes here. It's an incredible town--as a 22-year-old, I couldn't wait to get out--as young adults are wont to do--but now that I call Nashville home, I ache for the sweet simplicities and familiarities of Waco in a way I never anticipated.

It's beautiful, it's authentic, it'll always clutch a substantial piece of my heart. Waco isn't a sum of its events--it has grown by leaps and bounds from when I was young--in every way imaginable. I daresay it has overcome the many shadows cast over it due to a handful of selfish souls. And I have every faith it'll rise above this tragedy as well.

how you doin'?

summer is inching its way to Nashville and gah, I am ready for her. we are off for two weeks of vacay here in a matter of days and the timing couldn't be more golden. here's a roundup of life, as of late:

reading | just finished the girl on the train. honestly, looking back, it was a little meh. while I don't think it was entirely predictable, some of the buttoning up of the story line was a bit too neat, considering the intricacies of the plot line. that said, I don't NOT recommend it. it was touted as "the next gone girl," but I wouldn't put it in the same arena. I just started dana perino's "and the good news is..." and I am instantly transported back to my round-the-clock-fox-news-watching days in college, hellbent on pursuing the path of political journalism. I'm loving it.


browsing | I have a ridiculous number o' windows open on my chrome (this is new! just made the switch to chrome!) browser: lots of mad men commentary (poor betty!), grad school stuff, overpriced swimsuits for aforementioned vacation, upcoming events in nashville. tone it up. same ol.

donning | step right up. the most comfortable summer jeans known to man. I'm impatiently waiting for rain so I can finally model the wellies I've wanted for years. and my new (cheap!) bag. I have a thing for structured, simple, solid-colored bags and h+m has yet to let me down.

watching | the good wife. why the hell did I not jump on this bandwagon sooner? OMG, Alicia Florrick, you are a total shero. also? finally binged on the jinx. and it has blown my mind. ST stayed up two nights ago and watched all of them--homeboy couldn't get enough. we saw "age of adaline" a few weeks ago and it was so, so good. definitely recommend. could blake lively be any more gorgeous? life is so fair. also, rounding out mad men. whatever will I do without the mystery and deceit of don draper? (this is such an awesome forecast as to how it'll end...)

next, I am having a serious moment with amy schumer. girl is funny. go spend four minutes watching this.

wishing | texas weren't quite so many states away. and that people actually kept plans when they made them (passive aggressive to whine about, maybe... but that annoyance has become a recurring theme this week).

jazzed about |  my upcoming trip to texas! oh... and our week on a little island known as st. thomas. ;) my first two-week vacation from work ever.

sipping on | this grapefruit cocktail I found referenced in a TIU snippet.. juice one grapefruit, add a teaspoon of agave and a shot (or so ;)) of vodka... holy YUM. I've been knocking them back left and right. crazy refreshing and super easy.

wondering | how the hell was it seven years ago that I graduated from college?

looking forward to | summertime! we have so much planned, per the usual. I thrive on a full calendar.

nervous about | leaving maizie when we head out on vacation. I have such crazy anxiety about not being with her, but I know she'll be in good hands.

last, but most importantly (and therefore not least!), ST's birthday is today! happy birthday, lovey! so excited to share a fantastic weekend with you... you make that whole aging thing look so damn good. ;)

Favorite Things Parties are all the rage back home. I was surprised to hear from friends here in Nashville that no one had really heard of the concept--which naturally fueled my desire to host my first one. Oh, you've never heard of a Favorite Things Party either? Quite simply, you corral your BFFs, all of whom bring a snackeroo and five of their favorite under-$5 item (or whatever you decide on, collectively--some people go for a three items under $10 situation. I say, you do you, boo)... you nosh on all of the food, swap items and go home with something fancy you otherwise likely wouldn't have bought for yourself.

More specifically, here's what I did:

• Sent a crafty e-vite to all my best girls. It was a prime opportunity to overlap my friend groups, all in the name of food and fancy little surprises.
• We agreed upon the five under $5 model, and everyone decided which dish they'd bring--we stuck to appetizers, desserts and BYOB which worked like a charm. Gifts were to be wrapped and kept a surprise.
• Pre-party, I wrote everyone's name down on five colored snippets of paper and tossed them into a fishbowl--after we socialized and stuffed our faces, everyone was instructed to grab five slips from the bowl (being careful not to grab their own color).
• Keeping their names secretive, we gradually went around our circle, describing our item of choice, and joyously passed each of our five items to their new owners!
• At the conclusion of the gift distribution, I passed out a quiz I had created, listing all kinds of favorite things--everything from favorite breakfast food and favorite quote from a parent, to favorite part of town and place to spend a rainy afternoon in Nashville. It was a really funny way for everyone to get to know each other better. Each girl got a point for an original answer--just like Scattergories (for each answer that was duplicated, the responders had to mark that one off--no points gained!). At the end, the girl with the most points received a prize I put together (Starbucks gift card tucked in a paper cup, reusable Target bag, fun socks, etc.)
• Prior to the party, I had also personalized bags, so each gal had something to toss her gems into (as seen above).
• I also put together some of my favorite things as favors for each attendee: sharpie pens, Tazo teabags, stationery that I created just for the occasion.

Here are my spoils from the evening! Nail polish was a huge trend--I gave my beloved top coat away.


Some of the other goods that were brought were mascara and coffee mugs. My friend Mikki has a friend with an etsy store who created custom hair ties for our party--and stamped Mikki's face as a seal of approval on the tag!


Sidenote: Mikki (who originated as a work friend) is leaving Nashville in a few weeks, and I have now immortalized her adorable stamped face in my office forever.

And some more snapshots from the eve (forgive the shoddy iphone origin):






Happy planning!

so... this past week did a pretty spectacular job of knocking me on my ass. I come to you, clad in rumpled PJ pants (ST is an eskimo and our thermostat is constantly at an arctic setting), haphazard topknot perched at the crown of my head, a freshly groomed Maiz, snugsing at my feet. It's safe to say I've done my best to spend the day relaxing, after:


monday? last night of community group (and the conclusion to a pretty intense 14-week bible study).
tuesday? lots and lots of brainstorming and discussion at my junior league council retreat. after driving out to the 'burbs to take dinner to a friend who just had a baby.
wednesday?  much-anticipated dinner plans (which turned into a five-hour event, complete with side-splitting laughter) with one of our dearest friends from our early days in birmingham.
thursday? skimm day happy hour, followed by an impromptu date night at patterson house (and three amazing drinks later...)
friday? a rough start to the day due to aforementioned date night, followed by a long workday and swinging out to see my former nannying charge dazzle and perform in her dance recital.


Today, we rounded it all out with church, our friends' sweet baby dedication at church, and a late Italian feast of a lunch, just me and the boys. This past week, I also knocked out a huge freelance project I do annually, and to claim it's a weight off my shoulders is a gross understatement. I didn't quite realize how heavy it was until I wrapped it up.

I'm eager to tackle this week--and the anticipation of all of our upcoming plans--with as carefree an attitude as I can muster!

Have a great week, y'all!