Current Obsessions: Blogger Roundup

The past couple months have been a blur, it's hard to believe that May is here and summer is right around the corner. Is anyone else feeling the same way? Don't get me wrong though, I'm {more than} ready for some fun in the sun, cookouts in the backyard, summer concert series and the change in my wardrobe! With the warmer temperatures upon us and Mother's Day this weekend, I have loved seeing everyone's summer wish lists and gift guides. I've rounded up my top picks from a few of my favorite bloggers to share with you.

Karen Walker Sunglasses: Natalie from East Coast Chic

Embroidered Dress: Ashley from Fancy Ashley

Tory Burch Purse: Biana from B Loved Boston

Martha Stewart's Appetizers: Katie from Katie Elizabeth

Rose Gold/Blush Watch: Shelby from Pretty In The Pines

Thoughts for Thursday: December Highlights

As I slowly begin to take down the Christmas decorations scattered throughout our home, I wanted to take a moment to share a few of our December Highlights with you. I still can't believe that one of my favorite seasons has passed and we are about to ring in the New Year, does anyone else feel like this year flew by?! The past 31 days have been filled with joy, love and laughter. It has been a month of special memories and festive activities, if only I could hit rewind so we could do it all over again.

ONE. Getting dressed up to take our Christmas Card pictures.

TWO. This view and Football Sunday with my Dad.

THREE. Beers and BBQ with my sister and her husband.

 

FOUR. Squeezing my best friend after months of being 430 miles apart from each other.

FIVE. An evening at the Ballet, The Nutcracker did not disappoint.

SIX. 80 degrees in December and spending Christmas in Morehead City.

SEVEN. And one last Christmas tree picture. I love my MOL's white flocked Christmas Tree.

 

Gift Guide: For Her

Oh, Monday...you always come so quickly! TC was out of town this weekend for a golf tournament so I spent Friday and Saturday catching up with girlfriends and browsing my favorite stores in Raleigh. All the shops were decorated for Christmas and were smelling like a fresh Frasier Fir, I was in heaven. With only 39 days until one of my favorite Holidays, I was excited to start my Christmas shopping a little earlier than I typically do.

I'm sharing a few of my gift guides for all those amazing women in our lives that enjoy playing dress up or hostess with the mostest. I will be back later this week with a few more gift guides for him. :)

1. Who doesn't love a subscription box for a gift? Stitch Fix is always a great option for someone that enjoys the convenience of receiving a few new stylish items on their door step.

2. My heart skips a beat every time I see these beautiful Lisi Lerch Tassel Earrings online or in a local shop. These are the perfect way to put a little sass in your evening outfit!

3. I can't create a gift guide without including my favorite go-to GiGi Clutch. I'll take one of each color, please! :)

4. Hello, gorgeous! The hand-beaded Roarke scarf was made to dress up a neutral blouse or dress, it is the perfect accessory that is on the top of my wishlist this holiday season.

5. After playing dress up, I find myself counting down the minutes until I can slip into comfy pajamas and curl up on the couch for the rest of the evening. Lake Pajamas were made for Sunday morning snuggles.

1. I have a weakness for any {and every} coffee table book, they are such a special gift especially if you write a personalized note inside so they can always remember the special occasion.

2. A simple yet practical way to present cheese and crackers at your next cocktail party. I love this unique serving board!

3. For the fish lovers in your life, a cedar grilling plank paired with a fish spatula and a sprig of thyme. Easy!

4. The Zodax Fez Cut Tumbler Glass Set is the easiest way to spruce up any bar cart.

5. Treat the Host and/or Hostess to a relaxing date night at Sur la Table with a cooking class and a bottle of wine to enjoy together. This is my kind of Friday night!

6. You can't go wrong with fresh flowers and a beautiful vase. I love, love, love our Vietri Incanto White Pleated Vase.

Happy Shopping, sweet friends! I hope you have a wonderful week!

Current Obsessions + Links

Well hello, September! September has always been one of my favorite months because it means football season is here, fall weather is around the corner, celebrations are in store for our wedding anniversary, and pumpkin flavor food and drinks are creeping onto restaurant menus. As you can tell, I am one happy lady today so bring it on, September...I am ready for ya! 

I don't know about you but I'm ready for the Fall. Is anyone else over the heat and humidity? It's going to be hard to say goodbye to the golden glow that I've acquired over the past few months but everything about these outfits has me excited for the cooler temperatures! 

Is there anything better than treating yourself to a blowout and a glass of champagne at the end of the day? If you live in Raleigh, Parlor Blow Dry Bar is the perfect place to relax and have a little me time!

Ingredients:

8 ounces of Whole Grain Spaghetti

5 ounces of Cherry Tomatoes

3 cloves of Garlic

1 ear of Corn

1 bunch of Basil

2 tablespoons of Mascarpone Cheese

2 teaspoons of olive oil

1 Shallot

1/3 cup of grated Parmesan Cheese

1/8 teaspoon crushed Red Pepper Flats

Instructions: 

ONE. Heat a large pot of salted water to boiling on high. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Peel and thinly slice the garlic and shallot. Remove and discard the husks and silks of corn. Cut the corn kernels off the cob. Pick the basil leaves off the stems and discard the stems.

TWO. Add the pasta to the pot of boiling water. Cook the pasta for 5 to 7 minutes or until al dente. Reserve 2/3 cup of the pasta cooking water, drain the cooked pasta thoroughly.

THREE. While the pasta cooks, in a large pan, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil on medium-high until hot and then add the garlic, shallot and corn. Season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally for 2 to 3 minutes or until softened. 

FOUR. To the pan of vegetables, add the tomatoes, half the basil (roughly chop just before adding it) and as much of the crushed red pepper flakes as you'd like based on your level of spice. Season with salt and pepper and cook for 1 to 2 minutes or until everything is well combined and the tomatoes have softened.

FIVE. To the pan of vegetables, add the cooked pasta, mascarpone cheese, Parmesan cheese and half the reserved pasta cooking water. Season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, for 1 to 2 minutes or until the pasta is thoroughly coated. Remove from the heat and divide the pasta between 2 dishes. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and remaining basil.  

A few more of my favorite links this week...

+I am all about being efficient and learning new tips and tricks about blogging. Biana from B Loved Boston wrote this great article. 

+Speaking of efficiency, Love And Bellinis shared a few great time-saving apps and I have already downloaded Matchbook and TeuxDeux. You will have to take a peak!

+Looking to travel abroad soon? If so, Lisa from Lisa Loves John shares her tips for planning a vacation out of the country. 

Current Obsessions + Links

Does anyone else have a case of the Mondays?! I certainly do. I have been dreaming of this past weekend and wishing that we could relive it all over again. After such a fun three days, I made sure to keep my coffee cup full because I needed every bit of that caffeine to get me through the workday.

TC and I made these delicious Three Cheese Calzones a few weeks ago and I'm already craving them again. They were packed with flavor and easy to make, it was perfect for a quick week night meal when I didn't want to spend hours in the kitchen or have a huge pile of dishes staring me in the face after we were finished. 

Ingredients:

1 Pound of Pizza Dough

1 15 Ounce Can of Diced Tomatoes

8 ounces Fresh Mozzarella Cheese

4 cloves of Garlic 

1/2 bunch of Green Kale

1/2 bunch of Lacinato Kale

2 tablespoons of Golden Raisins

1/2 cup of Skim Ricotta Cheese

1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese

1/4 cup of Semolina Flour

2 teaspoons of Spice Blend {Italian Seasons and Pepper}

4 teaspoons of Olive Oil 

2 tablespoons of water

Instructions:

ONE. Preheat the oven to 475 degrees. Peel and thinly slice the garlic. Tear the mozzarella cheese into small pieces. Remove and discard the green kale stems and roughly chop the leaves. Remove and discard the lacinato kale stems and roughly chop the leaves.

TWO. In a medium pot, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil on medium to high until hot. Add half the garlic and cook, stirring frequently, for 30 to 45 seconds. Add the spice blend and cook, stirring frequently, for 30 to 45 seconds. Add the diced tomatoes and salt and pepper to taste and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until warm. Remove from the heat.

THREE. In a medium, non-stick pan, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil on medium to high heat until hot. Add the remaining garlic and cook for 30 to 45 seconds or until fragrant. Add the green kale, lacinato kale, raisins and 2 tablespoons of water. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes or until the kale has wilted and the water has evaporated. Transfer the kale to a strainer and hold the strainer over a bowl, press down on the kale with a spoon to release as much liquid as possible. Discard the liquid.

FOUR. In a large bowl, combine the drained kale, mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese and 1/3 of the tomato sauce. Stir until it is thoroughly combine and season with salt and pepper.

FIVE. Sprinkle half the flour onto a sheet pan. Place the dough on the sheet pan and divide into 3 equal portions. Roll or stretch out each portion into a 1/4 inch think, round, approximately 8 inches in diameter. Divide the filling between the centers of the rounds and fold each round in half over the filling. Using your fingers, press down on the edges of each round to seal. Using a fork, firmly press down on the edges to crimp and completely seal.

SIX. Sprinkle the remaining flour onto a dry sheet pan. Transfer the assembled calzones to the sheet pan and lightly drizzle the tops with olive oil. Bake 16 to 18 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let stand for 3 to 5 minutes. Cut the baked calzones in half and serve with the remaining tomato sauce on the side.

I am sure that you have figured it by now...I love a cold, crisp glass of bubbly. I stopped into the new Southern Season store in Cameron Village and was immediately impressed with everything they had to offer. From the wine selection to fresh cheeses that you could try while shopping to the southern sauces and marinades that lined the walls, it was my kind of place. I picked up this bottle of champagne after I overheard a mother and daughter that were raving about it. It is delicious and a great price that I couldn't pass up!

 

I am obsessed with this Lilly Pulitzer strapless dress for the hot {humid}, summer days that we have been experiencing in NC recently. I have worn this to a variety of occasions from a dear friend's graduation party, date night with TC and even to work with a cardigan. Versatility is key for me.    

A few more links that I am loving - 

+I have to admit that I am dreaming of Fall right now and this amazing list of knitwear from Angela at The Sunday Chapter has me even more excited about those cool October nights.

+Ashley from Turquoise & Teal shared a list of the 10 Best Rose Wines for the summer. I can't wait to try a few of these soon. If you have a favorite Rose, I would love to hear any of your recommendations!

+Does anyone else enjoy finding handwritten script fonts for your blog? If so, Sarah from Venus Trapped In Mars shared a great list of fonts here.

Summer Favorites

I apologize that it has been a little quiet around here recently, work has been very busy over the past few weeks as I was preparing to attend the annual NACE {National Association of Colleges and Employers} Conference in Anaheim, California this week. I always look forward to attending because it is an opportunity where campus recruiting and career services professionals are able to connect and collaborate, share challenges, trade best practices and listen to fresh ideas and perspectives about recruiting university talent.

Speaking of Anaheim, this place is beautiful! I hope to find a few hours over the next couple days to venture to Laguna Beach, San Clemente or LA. Stay tuned but until then I will leave you with a few of my Summer favorites.

Favorite Summer Salad:
During the summer, I love a fresh salad. On the weekend, I enjoy spending the afternoon walking up and down the aisles of the Raleigh Farmer's Market or visiting our local produce stand to find the freshest fruits, vegetables and flowers. A few weeks ago, I was craving a salad but not the typical house salad that I usually find myself making or ordering. I wanted something different and I found it!

Ingredients: 

1 Green Pepper

1 Red Pepper

1 Yellow Pepper 

1 Cucumber 

1 bunch of Scallion Onions

1 container of Cherry Tomatoes

6 Ears of Corn

5 ounces of Feta Cheese

4 tablespoons of Olive Oil

3 tablespoons of Red Wine Vinaigrette

2 tablespoons of Sugar

Salt and Pepper

Instructions

1. Shuck the corn and place it into a large pot of boiling water. Add 2-3 teaspoons of sugar to the water. Cover and let cook for 7-8 minutes or until soft.

2. While the corn is cooking, wash all of the vegetables then dice the green, red and yellow peppers. Slice the cherry tomatoes and cucumbers into halves. Thinly slice the scallion onions. Then combine all of the vegetables into a large bowl.

3. Once the corn is cooked, drain the water and let the corn cool for 4-5 minutes. 

4. On a separate plate, cut the corn off the cob and place the corn into the bowl with the vegetables.

5. Add the Feta Cheese and mix thoroughly. Once everything is well mixed, add 4 tablespoons of olive oil, 3 tablespoons of red wine vinaigrette, and salt & pepper to taste. Mix together thoroughly. Enjoy!

Favorite Summer Outfit:

Don't get my wrong, there is nothing better than wearing a dress or a maxi in the summer but I also get very excited when it is finally time to break out my white pants again! Yes, I am one of those people that will begin counting the days until we can wear white. I love pairing white jeans with a bright and fun top for a date night or even during the work week - it is the perfect balance between professional and fun. 

Once I arrived in Anaheim, CA for a work conference this week, I was ready to change into this outfit for an afternoon of meetings and networking events. 

Outfit Details:

Top: Lilly Pulitzer {old}

Pants: 7 For All Mankind Slim Cigarette White Jeans

Shoes: Tory Burch Miller Metallic Gold Sandal

Favorite Summer Cocktail:

The past few weekends have been spent from sun up to sun down {literally} working in the yard. As many of you know, we have been focused on updating the inside of our home over the past 6 months. I have to admit that I have really enjoyed the entire process and seeing the transformation take place in each room. But once the warm weather arrived in North Carolina, TC convinced me that we should take a break from the inside and focus our time and energy on the yard {which also needed a lot of attention}. Our list is lengthy but I can't wait to see what our yard looks like once we are finished! 

After a long day of working in the yard, there is nothing more refreshing than a summer cocktail on the porch with beach music playing in the background, right?! For those of you that follow me on Instagram {stephaniechalk08}, this picture may look familiar. :)

Favorite Summer Quote:

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What are some of your Summer favorites?

Fitness Motivation: Get Going & Get Results

I've always enjoyed exercising and love discovering new workout classes in the area. I find that if I can work out a couple times each week that I feel better and have a little more energy. I always wish that I could squeeze in a few more workouts than I do each week but I have to be realistic with myself and right now, our days fill up quickly with other obligations.

I was recently given the opportunity to work with Orangetheory Fitness, a revolutionary workout concept that has been featured in the New York Times, Bloomberg, Men's Fitness, and many other news publications. They have just opened 3 studios in the Raleigh area so I was very excited to see what it was all about.

Orangetheory Fitness is a unique group workout broken into intervals of cardio and strength training. You will alternate between treadmills, indoor rowing machines and weight room/resistance training blocks. Each session that I have attended has been unique and different which I really enjoy because I tend to get bored {very quickly} if my workout routine is same. That definitely won't happen if you make the investment in Orangetheory Fitness!

The sessions are led by professional and very energetic trainers that are there to support and encourage you during the entire workout which was a huge motivator for me. I'll be honest, the last 10 minutes were tough - my legs were shaking, my arms were already sore and the sweat was pouring down my face - but our trainer kept us going until the very end.

During the 60 minute workout, you will wear a heart-rate monitor which is designed to help you keep your heart rate in a target zone that stimulates metabolism and increases energy. Everyone's heart rates are projected on TV screens throughout the workout so you can see if you need to push yourself harder or slow down to reach the target "orange zone." If you stay within the orange zone for 12 - 20 minutes during the class, the result is the Orange Effect - more energy, visible toning and extra calorie burn up to 36 hours post-workout. Who doesn't love to hear that their workout will continue to drive results even post-workout?!

After the workout, you will receive an email with a recap showing how you did during the class to easily track your progress. If your goal is to lose weight, you can expect to see an estimated loss of 3-5 pounds by attending 3-5 sessions per week. But if your goal is performance, like me, you can expect to see an increase in power, speed and strength after your first 2 weeks by attending 2-4 sessions per week. As I train for my upcoming half-marathon in October, I will continue to attend at least 2 sessions each week and will let you know the results that I am able to achieve after crossing the finish line in Philadelphia.

You can also expect to burn an estimated 500 to 1,000 calories per workout. During my first session, I was able to burn approximately 755 calories in 60 minutes! This is my kind of workout.

Their studios are located all around the country, click here to see if there is one near you. If you are in the Raleigh area, they have a studio in Morrisville, Chapel Hill and Holly Springs. The Holly Springs location is where I attend classes - the entire staff is extremely friendly, willing to answer any of my questions and are just awesome people! :)

I highly recommend Orangetheory Fitness to anyone, it is challenging but incredibly rewarding. If you have any questions or would be interested in attending an upcoming class, feel free to email me! I'd love to have you join me.

Outfit Details:

Pants: Zella "Live In 2" Capris 

Top: Lululemon "Cool Racerback" tank 

Shoes: Brooks PureCadence 4 

Headband: Headbands of Hope Sheer Gold 

Current Obsessions

Happy Wednesday! Sharing a few of my current obsessions.

TC and I are HGTV junkies. If we aren't watching Football or Baseball then there is no doubt in my mind that HGTV will be the channel of choice. We absolutely l-o-v-e watching Chip and Joanna Gaines on Fixer Upper, their sweet relationship that is captured while filming plus their interior design style are a few reasons why we adore their show. I recently watched this powerful and inspiring video of Joanna as she shares God's truth so publicly. It gave me goosebumps.

Speaking of their style, how beautiful is their home?!

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I have to admit that I am guilty of misusing a handful of these common phrases. Take a peak and see if you find yourself using them correctly {or incorrectly like me}!

Laura from Tiny Toes, Little Nose recently shared her favorite new gadget and I can't stop thinking about it. I need one immediately. :)

Charleston Food Bloggers recently published the first county by county list of the best restaurants in North Carolina. The selection of each restaurant was based on taste, experience and uniqueness. I can't wait to try some of these as we travel around the state. Thanks to my dear friend, Kelsey, that sent this list to me - she clearly knows that I love a good restaurant.

Now that the warm weather has made its appearance, I always enjoy making seasonal salads. I have added this recipe to my grocery list for next week because who doesn't love watermelon and feta?

Five on Friday: Spring Edition

This week's Five on Friday is going to be dedicated to the items that need to find their way into my closet for Spring. Being able to enjoy a few days of warm weather has me feeling the need to update my wardrobe as soon as possible...perhaps this weekend! 

 

ONE:

When I find shorts that I can dress up or down based on the event, I get really excited and end up purchasing them in multiple colors. These look perfect for running errands or for a date night with TC.

J.Crew Crepe Pull-On Shorts: On Sale

TWO:

TC's family lives at the beach so we find ourselves on the boat, soaking up the sun and salt air as much as possible during the summer. I am always looking for the perfect cover-up, I can't get enough of the tassel trend right now so this will definitely be coming home with me.

Tassel-Tie Beach Tunic

THREE:

I can't get my hands on enough Maxi Dresses this season! Have I mentioned how amazing the Spring collection is from ASOS?! You will have to check it out here.

ASOS River Island Maxi Dress

Vince Camuto Floral Print Maxi Dress

FOUR:

I had a pair of neutral, high heel sandals last summer that I wore with everything! I am on the hunt to replace them and both of these have caught my eye. Which one do you like?

Joie Elery Sandal



Tory Burch Classic Ankle Sandal

FIVE:

Growing up in the South, you get very excited about anything Lilly. Lilly Pulitzer has released their Spring collection and it is fabulous! I have a few pairs of their Linen Beach Pants from last season, they are my favorite{and very comfortable}. I can't wait to pick up a few more pairs soon.

I am linking up with April, Christina, Natasha, and Darci for Five on Friday and Amanda for Friday Favorites! I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend! Cheers!