Happy New Year's Eve!!!

This New Year's Eve we are celebrating and ringing in the new year at the club hearing our wedding band play ... again!!! Isn't that fun!?! We hosted a small dinner party at our casa first ... and even set up a bar:

Our plans took a slight delay when you-know-who was glued to the tube ...

... Clemson did pull off the WIN with just a field goal kick. WOW!!!

The girls wore gorgeous dresses, we sipped pink champagne, in the company of wonderful friends,

and, most of all, my love by my side to welcome 2013!!!

This past year has been amazing and I want to thank you for making it so memorable. Cheers to you and here is to wishing you a happy, healthy, and colorful New Year!!! Xoxo-BLC

2012: Oh what a year it's been!!!

In looking back over the past year, 2012 has been ... 

Best because ... We welcomed Stewart home!!!

Worst because ... We bid farewell to my grandmother.

Colorful because ... of The Company She Keeps and YOU ... her readers!!!

Adventurous because ... We traveled to ...

   Tennessee (Memphis and Sewanee)

    North Carolina (Charlotte, Winston-Salem, and Durham)

    South Carolina (Clemson, Rock Hill, Charleston, and Pawley's Island)

    Alabama (Marion, Birmingham, and Weiss Lake)

    Georgia (Atlanta and Rome)

    Florida (Miami and Orlando x 2)

    Pennsylvania (Philadelphia x 2)

    California (San Fransisco, Glenn Ellen, Napa, and Sonoma)

    Nevada (Las Vegas)

    New York (New York City)

Unexpected because ... surprises!?! I don't do surprises well. :)

Fashionable because ... I made a trip to THE Lilly Warehouse Sale!!!

Sporty because ... Stewart lives to run/walk/wog. Also, Duke AND Clemson were invited to bowl games. OH MY!!!

Educational because ... I passed another bar exam. Woohoo!!! Still pumped. Working as an attorney has taught me more law and Bible Study taught me more grace.

Unforgettable because ... I have an a-m-a-z-i-n-g family and very step of this year I walked with Ale, the love of my life, by my side. :)

Many thanks visiting TCSK, now and throughout the last year. Wishing you a yours a memorable 2012 and all the best in 2013!!! Xoxo-BLC

Heaven is Here

My husband has noticed one major change in me since law school graduation: my reading habit. I use to devour a book a week. Now, I can count on one hand how many books I've read in full since June 2011. Determined to get back at it, I picked up Heaven is Here by Stephanie Nielson. My familiarity with her went as far as a magazine article and her blog: the Nie Nie Dialogues. I was captivated by her story, with her beauty, and, more importantly, her triumph through such difficulty. My favorite lines: 

"At first I thought stubbornly that the one thing that would make me happy was for life to look like it did before the accident. But no one could give that to me, and no one else could make me happy. 

Happiness was my choice, and though it is hard won, I am the only person who can stand in the way of it. 

As I gradually accepted responsiblity to choose happiness every day, I rediscovered the beautiful life I had always wanted. I still have to remind myself to choose happiness almost every morning when I wake up in pain, and I expect I will need reminding throughout my life, but the amazing thing is the more I make the choice to see and feel joy, the more joy there is to see and to feel."

This is a must-read. Stephanie's story is powerful and inspiring. You cannot read it without gaining appreciation of your own life and its blessings. To further echo above, I believe happiness is a choice. As Christians, I think we are called to choose happiness. It's not easy but it's definitely worth fighting for. Don't let yourself stand in the way of happiness. We must appreciate the sun while it shines because rain and storms their season too. So dish: have you read this? What other must-reads should I add to my library list? Xoxo-BLC

World of Aerin

Aerin Lauder ranks high on my list of style icons. I love spotting her in Town & Country at swanky events and I am always mesmerized by her simple elegance, always gorgeous and effortless.

I've been equally mesmerized by her new line: Aerin. It's still a Lauder family endeavor but Aerin is the tastesetter and stylemaker. Items from her line were sure-adds to my holiday gift guide below.
Her website is a must-see.

Of course her site features her beauty products and home line, but it also gives an insiders glimpse to her travels, interests, photoshoots, family times, beauty, artwork, and homelife. 

 In the WSJ interview, Aerin had this to say: "The biggest beauty lesson my grandmother taught me is that you only have one face, so take care of it. She taught me that everything starts with a good skin care routine. She also taught me that while something might be fun to look at in a magazine, it doesn't mean you have to wear it."

I love that she even shared her skincare routine --- it's so simple. And, did you know ... Lilly is teaming up with Estee Lauder!?! It's bound to be colorful: Lilly in prints and Estee in makeup. :)
Chin chinc to Aerin's new line and may the best be yet to come. Xoxo-BLC

Merry, Merry Christmas!!!

Today is magical because I believe, 

"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:11 (KJV).

I am wishing you and yours a happy, happy and a very merry, merry Christmas!!! Enjoy this day. Xoxo-BLC

Fa la la ... ha ha ha!!!

I wouldn't wish this on a frenemy around the holidays:

I'm thankful for a family that observes a holiday cocktail hour.

May yours too and chin chin!!!

Xoxo-BLC

PS: See the below exhibit: my stepmadre sent the family this exercise plan ...

Merry & Bright!!!

Receiving Christmas mail is simply THE BEST!!! I practically skip to our mailbox to see 

what holiday cheer it holds. Without much further ado, to from my family to YOURS:

Wishing you the most MERRY and BRIGHT Christmastime possible!!!

I hope all your wishes and dreams come true this holiday.

I also send out a few Robin Hood Foundation cards to support their cause: poverty in New York City. Ghandi said it best: "Poverty is the worst form of violence." We can all help fight poverty this Christmas by donating food/clothing/money, volunteering at a local soup kitchen, praying for those in need ... be a creative: there are a million ways to lend a helping hand. Sending loads of merry, merry and bright, bright Christmas cheer to YOU!!!

Xoxo-BLC

Gossip Girl ... Going, Going, GONE!!!

Monday's are dead to me. Gossip Girl ended tonight and I had my fingers (and toes) crossed that it wasn't really so. Going, going, gone ... really gone!?! Say it ain't so. 

 Has it REALLY been SIX years!?! I started watching GG right when I finished college.

I felt "too old" to watch, but I did read the books in my childhood ... so I couldn't help myself.

I'm still shocked its ALL over. What a whirlwind and it was TOO much fun!!!

What next ... Monday Night Football!?! I guess I owe my husband after six years of GG ...

Xoxo-BLC

PS: See alllll the TCSK posts on Gossip Girl to date: Spotted: Gossip Girl & Lilly Pulitzer, Fit for a Princess, Celeb Du Jour, Flapper Girl, Ghost of a Chance, and Haute & Spice!!!

The episodes might have ended, but who is to say TCSK posts must ...

PSS: Blair has been my Halloween-inspiration for YEARS ... 

how will I ever pick out another 'ween outfit!?!?!

J-O-Y

The third Sunday in Advent is JOY. My middle name was Joy until I married and I've always thought it made me a littler peppier just because. The advent candle is PINK for joy ... I knew I always loooved pink. I looked up joy and the dictionary said: "the emotion evoked by well-being, success or good fortune ... a state of happiness or bliss." Such a word and definition seems amiss this week. With the needless tragedy in Newtown. With friends loosing loved ones. A certain sadness as we miss those already departed during the holidays. Where is joy in any of that? Yet, maybe this is the perfect week to be reminded of joy. After such grief, loss, and sadness, we hope for a season of joy again. That season will be sweeter and rosier after such depths. This is my prayer for Sandy Hook's community, those who have lost, and the saddened: Nehemiah 8:10b:  "The joy of the Lord will make you strong." May you know Him and a season of joy again!!! Xoxo-BLC

Mrs. TCSK :: Gift Guide 2012

When people find out I have this little blog, they always ask what I blog about. And I happily respond: ME!!! I confessed that in my very first post ever: the purpose of this blog is completely selfish. It's my happies, my colorful life, the company I keep, and wearing it all well. Selfish, selfish, selfish. So, not to break my selfish stride, here is my Mrs. TCSK wishlist:

:: Noble House Designs Necklace :: Devon Baer Necklaces :: Loren Hope Necklace :: Noble House Designs Necklace :: Zoo Membership :: Carrie Dunham Clutch :: Lilly Pulitzer Helene Dress :: Aerin Makeup :: Fur Shoe Clips :: Butter Pumps :: Ashley Brooke Designs Notecards :: Elizabeth McKay Key Fob :: Herend Figures ::

Dish: what is on YOUR wishlist!?! Any must-haves or the one BIG item you've been pining for!?! Do share and fingers crossed that ALL your wishes and wants come true. Xoxo-BLC

TCSK's Mister :: Gift Guide 2012

I must include what I believe my mister is coveting or what I think he should covet. :)

After all, he makes me happy, makes my life much more colorful, 

is the best company I keep,and I always wear it well with him by my side.

:: Tux :: Bow Shoes :: Smather & Branson Cufflinks :: Bowties :: Polo Gift Set ::

:: Charles Tyrwhitt Shirt :: Patagonia Vest :: Football :: Cowboy Boots ::

:: Dark Jeans :: Clemson Koozie :: Cooler with Wheels ::

Knowing my mister all too well, he probably prefers the latter, but he is always super duper daper in my head ... whether donned a tux or jeans!!! Dish: what do you get the boys in your life!?! Xoxo-BLC

Home + Kiss the Cook :: Gift Guide 2012

Never ever in a million years did I think I would find myself quoting Carrie Bradshaw on this one: "I've been cheating on fashion with furniture." But I totally agree!!! Making a house warm and cozy is no small feat. As a new homeowner in 2012, I find myself with a new appreciation for housewares and cooking.

:: Sally King Benedict (thank you Karin!!!) :: Zara Home Pillow :: Zara Home Candle :: 

::Bronze Giraffe :: Sheridan French Pillows :: Dana Gibson Lamp :: Two's Company Prints ::

:: Paper Placemats :: Kitchen Aid Mixer :: Zara Home Silver Tray :: London Tea Set ::

:: Zara Home Charger :: Zara Home Serving Pieces :: Sheridan French Napkin Ring ::

:: Zara Home Napkins :: Aerin Salt and Pepper Shaker :: Sheridan French Coasters ::

Dish: how do you feather and nest your home!?! I do believe these are great gifts for mothers, aunts, grandmothers ... and all those hard-to-buy-for ladies!!! Xoxo-BLC

Stock the Bar :: Gift Guide 2012

For those hard-to-buy-for over 21ers, why not stock their bar!?! It always fits, is the correct color, and mmm mmm tastes delish. :) If you are anything like us, we always seem to do a last-minute-mad-dash before throwing a party to stock our bar. Why not have it r-e-a-d-y!?! More impromptu parties welcomed!!!

:: Mary Phillips Designs Sassy Cocktail Napkins :: Monogrammed Flamingo Swizzles ::

:: Mrs. Lillien's Cocktail Swatchbook :: Aerin Wine Stoppers :: Society Social Bar Cart ::

:: Crane Lake Wine and Champagne :: Flutes :: Zara Home Decanter :: Design Darling Tray ::

Dish: what are your stock-the-bar must-haves!?! Everyone has a booze of choice ... do share!!! Cocktail cheers to you and yours ... and happy shopping!!! Xoxo-BLC

Miss Fit :: Gift Guide 2012

It's the most wonderful time of year and in all the flurry, one of the most fun parts is giving the perrrfect gift for those special people in our life. The gift guide last year was a HUGE hit and as such, let's do it again. First up: MISS FIT!!!

Be more flexible and stretch it out.

:: Thomas Kelly Sweater/Top/Pants :: Nalgene :: 

:: EmiJay Hairties :: Gym Membership :: Yoga Mat ::

Tennis Anyone!?!

 :: Marley Lilly Fleece/Skirt :: Wilson Racket :: Swatch Watch ::

:: Penn PINK Tennis Balls :: EmiJay Hairties ::

Walk the Dog

:: Marley Lilly Hoodie/Shorts :: Castaway Clothing T-Shirt ::

:: Smathers & Branson Baseball Cap/Dog Collar :: Nike Watch ::

Let's Hit the Pavement and RUN!

:: Thomas Kelly Top/Sweater/Pants :: iPod :: New Balance Sneaks ::

Dish: what is your favorite fitness routine!?! And doesn't that perrrfect workout outfit make the wog more fun!?! I am currently living in Thomas Kelly and cannot wait for warm weather to break out Marley Lilly duds. Happy Holidays from Miss Fit!!! Xoxo-BLC

PS: Smathers & Branson is offering FREE SHIPPING until 12/13/12. Enter: "DEC12"!!!

PSS: Thomas Kelly is offering monogramming AND 25% off $150.00 or more until 12/16/12. Enter "Holiday" and happy shopping!!!

Gone from My Sight

"I am standing upon the seashore.
A ship at my side spreads her white sails to the morning breeze 
and starts for the blue ocean.
She is an object of beauty and strength, 
and I stand and watch until at last she hangs 
like a speck of white cloud 
just where the sea and sky come down to mingle with each other. 
Then someone at my side says, 
"There she goes!"

Gone where?

Gone from my sight . . . that is all.

She is just as large in mast and hull and spar
as she was when she left my side
and just as able to bear her load of living freight
to the place of destination.

Her diminished size is in me, not in her.

And just at the moment
when someone at my side says,
" There she goes! "
there are other eyes watching her coming . . .
and other voices ready to take up the glad shout . . .

"Here she comes!"

by: Henry Van Dyke

Two years ago today I lost my stepdad to cancer. I am still near speechless about the matter. My oldest sissy encouraged me to read the hospice booklet "Gone from My Sight." I resisted because I didn't want to face the loss. That book was powerful as is the above from Henry Van Dyke. While I miss him much and wish he were here, I am so thankful for the peace, joy, and comfort that comes from the Lord. I am beyond thankful for his unconditional love, the time we did have together on earth, and seeing him again in heaven. If you have lost a loved one this year or recently, know that I am praying for you as the holidays prove a little more difficult without all our loved ones. Peace to you and yours!!! Xoxo-BLC

Meet Stewart's GirlFURiend!!!

 We hopped over to Atlanta this weekend for my husband's childhood BFF's engagement party and stayed with these college friends. Our college friends have a two-month old Boykin Spaniel named Llewellyn and she is TOO cute for words!!! She is just perfect and I told Stewart alllll about her after our return. He already has a puppy crush and cannot wait to meet his girlFURiend soon. Oh puppy love!!! Xoxo-BLC

Sparkle with NHD

Shhh ... or shout it from the mountains: Noble House Designs is having an ah-mazing s-a-l-e with 30% of ALL items. WOW!!! Shop for those tough birds and pick out something for you too (I won't tell). Xoxo-BLC

Little Christmas Sprinkle

I've mentioned this before, but it's still so true: I have the best Bible Study.

I love meeting once a week, reading the word, and walking in life with these bunch of girls.

 One of my Bible Study friends is welcome Baby Q in February.

As such, we wanted to have a teeny tiny sprinkle of a shower for her.

We had it at mi casa and it was so much fun decorating with Christmas cheer.

We cannot wait to meet Baby Q soon!!! Xoxo-BLC

Stella + Philadelphia Wedding Magazine = TDF!!!

One of the HIGHLIGHTS of being with Stella this past weekend:

her wedding was featured in Philadelphia Wedding Magazine!!!

 You MUST see this issue. She is the feature bride and could not be more stunning.

It was TOO much fun seeing her in print!!! The article is perrrrfection!!! 

Highlights of wedding details included: the menu (gorgie and delish cake too), 

her dress/shoes details, how the met, and their beloved first dance.

I've already ordered 5 issues and I expect it will remain a staple on our coffee table.

I always knew I was the Gayle to her Oprah!!! 

Xoxo-BLC

Shop and Ship with Devon Baer

Veet veet, shop by December 12th and Devon Baer will ship in time for Christmas.

Tis the season ... happy shopping to you and yours!!!

Xoxo-BLC

NYC + MNL = ♥

Any trip to NYC wouldn't be complete without squeezing Murphy's (New) Law!!! She is beyond darling and one of my favorite people ever. It was so much fun seeing her and catching up. The four of us brunched at Penelope's, a quick walk from The Roger. The nutella french toast was TDF!!! We were so sad to leave the city today ... it's been the most fun, girls-only weekend. Taking that winter chill and knowing: it's beginning to feel a lot like Christmas!!! Wishing you and yours much Christmas cheer!!! Xoxo-BLC

Serendipity

Our girls-only weekend made only one boy exception: JERSEY BOYS!!!

With four minutes to spare, we made it. Phew!

 I haven't seen a broadway musical since my middle school days and it was just as magical as I remember. I loved loved loved every minute of it. Such a fun show!!!

 We shopped on Madison Avenue and guissed up for our night on the town.

First stop: cocktails with ...

... A. Liz Adventures!!! Would you believe she was in NYC for a girls-only weekend, staying at the SAME hotel, and Effie knew one of her gal-pals.

What are the chances!?! It was too much fun and serendipitous to not squeeze in a visit!!! Xoxo-BLC

Show and Tell: Elizabeth McKay's NYC Showroom

NYC is any shopaholic's hometown. It hands down has the BEST shopping.

I first learned of Elizabeth McKay when the Lilly shop I worked at in college picked up the line.

It was l-o-v-e at first sight!!! I adore Elizabeth McKay as much today as then, if not more.

 When Elizabeth McKay opened their NYC showroom, she graciously

invited me to the opening but the trek proved too far and too much at the time. 

 I promised EMK my next NYC-bound trip would include a visit to their lovely showroom.

And oh la la was it worth the wait!!! It did not disappoint one bit.

The studio is gorgeous ... I wanted to move right in. The clothes --- TDF.

The decor --- divine. The neighborhood --- too cute for words.

 I think I tried on EVERYTHING in the store and it was too much fun.

How to pick!?! One of everything would look so good in my closet ...

 I walked away with a furrrr vest and the Marilou dress in the elephant print. 

I verrry much appreciate Elizabeth McKay opening up for us on their day off.

We know it was no small feat, but we had such a fete visiting. 

 I discovered so many unknown loves: Dana Gibson, Oliphant, and Carrie Dunham.

Those trio are a recent-must-have-add to my Christmas wishlist.

 Do you spy the changing rooms?!?

The little tents were too much fun inside.

 Their sections were blue/pink, red/navy, green/purple, and black/white.

Below: their signature ruffle ... perfection.

 A better view of the tent-changing-room.

New window treatment inspiration!?! Don't tempt me ...

 I cannot thank Effie and Stella for indulging me in this trek.

We had sooo much fun shopping the whole showroom.

Again, many many many THANKS to Elizabeth McKay and her ah-mazing team for letting us shop our hearts out ... and on your day off. That meant SOOO much and was such an unforgettable moment. If you are in NYC, the Elizabeth McKay  showroom is a MUST-SEE. It's literally TDF and I cannot wait to go back and visit!!! Xoxo-BLC