Chalk Southern To Me

A few weekends ago, I hosted a Baby is Blooming Shower at The Fearrington Village for my sister. It was an incredible venue with acres of colorful gardens, beautifully landscaped venues, award-winning cuisine and fabulous service. Sara and her husband are expecting Eleanor Marie to make her debut at the end of August and to say that we are excited is truly an understatement. I can't believe this glowing mommy-to-be is in the home stretch. It seems like yesterday that we were bundled up with blankets around the Christmas Tree and St. Nick had a bigger surprise than we could have ever imagined to share with us that night. :)

The afternoon was filled with the best of friends, family, fresh blooms and lots {and lots} of pink! The love, laughter, and friendship that surrounded Sara made the celebration incredibly special.

The menu featured delicious Southern Fare - Reuben with Smoky Bacon Thousand Island Dressing, Egg Salad Sandwiches, Grilled Pimento Cheese, Goat Cheese & Caramelized Onion Flatbread, Pulled Pork with Pineapple Chutney and Caesar Salad Jars. I don't think anyone went home hungry after that spread.

In our family, we never skip the sweets so it was only fitting to have a selection of desserts for everyone to enjoy. The pastry team at The Fearrington Village made the cake from scratch with the freshest ingredients from their farm. Italian Meringue Buttercream and fresh Strawberry jam for the win! I can't forget about the favors - custom cookies from Southern Sugar Bakery in Raleigh. Angie and Christin take such pride in their work, they don't miss any detail when creating the most delicious and beautiful cookies.

Every time I look at this picture, my eyes fill with the happiest of tears. The precious, little girl hidden inside that growing belly doesn't know yet but she hit the Mommy and Daddy jackpot. My sister is one-of-a-kind. She loves fiercely. She has a heart of gold. She is thoughtful in every action. She defines independence. She aspires to be greater then yesterday. She values her family, friends and faith. She is the absolute best and I am lucky to call her my sister.

I surprised Sara by asking everyone to "please bring a book instead of a card. A book is a treasure full of insight, read over and over to teach and delight. So instead of a card for baby and mother, please give a child's book with your thoughts in the cover." The story behind everyone's book choice and the sweetest notes that were written inside will be cherished forever.