Summer Scent

I don't know about you girls but I love having a scent that I just use in the summer. Recently I purchased Burberry Summer to use as my go-to summer smell! I love it!

It has a very light and fresh smell, it has floral and fruity tones but it is not offensive to the nose AT ALL! It is very light, not overpowering. The bottle is really pretty too.. which I love. I highly recommend trying this one if you are looking for a summer fragrance!

pink love

J

Foodie Friday

My birthday is this Sunday and I am so excited because I love love love Birthdays! Not just mine, I love celebrating other people's birthdays as well! I came into work today and my desk was covered in Birthday goodies! My boss had decorated my office with all shades of pink balloons and covered my desk in pretty pink sparkle pens and all kinds of fun stuff! She had made rainbow chip cupcakes with pink icing and they even had little pink tiaras on them! SO cute!! She also gave me a bag full of great gifts including a sunglasses case and id case by Vera Bradley and 2 books that I had wanted: LA Candy by Lauren Conrad and Miracle on the 17th Green by James Patterson! I was sooo excited! She made me feel so special and I just wanted to share it with you guys and publicly thank her on my blog!

So onto Foodie Friday...

I love cupcakes. My best friend K loves them even more than me, she wants to eventually open up her own cupcake shop which I would LOVE!! So because it's my birthday and cake is on my brain (a smidge self indulgent but it is MY blog after all haha) I have chosen some super yummy cupcakes to share with you guys. 

Aside from Rainbow Chip cupcakes, Chocolate are my FAVE!! I am definitely a chocolate girl.. throw in a little ganache and I'm in heaven! So these cupcakes look like just the ticket!  I hope you all have a fabulous Friday! Do something fun to celebrate the end of another week we have been blessed with!

* also.. My Tigers play tonight so I have to say.. GO TIGERS!!

Pink Love :)
-J

Chocolate Ganache Cupcakes

by Ina Garten

Ingredients:

1/4 pound unsalted butter, at room temperature

1 cup sugar
4 extra-large eggs, at room temperature
11 fluid ounces chocolate syrup (recommended: Hershey's)
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour

For the Ganache:
1/2 cup heavy cream

8 ounces good semisweet chocolate chips
1 teaspoon instant coffee granules
Candied violets, for decoration, optional

Directions:

Line muffin pans with 12 paper liners. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.Cream the butter and sugar in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, 1 at a time. Mix in the chocolate syrup and vanilla. Add the flour and mix until just combined. Don't over beat, or the cupcakes will be tough.Scoop the batter into the muffin cups and bake for 30 minutes, or until just set in the middle. Don't over bake! Let the cupcakes cool thoroughly in the pan.


For the ganache:
Dip the top of each cupcake in the ganache. Decorate with candied violets, if desired. Do not refrigerate.

Cook Time: 30 Mins.
Level: Easy
Yields: 12 cupcakes

For Today, Orange is the New Pink

So a random fact about me is that I absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE BASEBALL. I love to watch it, go to games.. you name it. Baseball is my favorite sport overall. In my opinion Baseballers have the cutest uniforms (but that is beside the point and I'm sure they would hate that anyone called their uniforms "cute"). So I decided to do this post because my BELOVED TIGERS are playing in the CWS or College World Series! They won game 1 against no. 1 ranked Arizona State and they are playing Oklahoma tonight!! So in honor of all my Clemson Tiger Baseballers.. I dedicate this post. GO TIGERS!!

p.s. I'm highly superstitious when it comes to sports so I am a smidge nervous to post this before we play tonight.. but I will anyway, because win or lose my blood runs ORANGE! :)

I also want to share 2 very adorable websites, I am linking the Clemson pages but you can find stuff for other teams as well. . . and McAuley's has other types of clothing and accessories that are really cute.

Game Day Divas

McAuley's Unique Boutique

To all non Clemson fans.. at the end of the day it's all about Team Spirit. Game day outfits make every sport a little more fun! Enjoy!

And for members of the Clemson fam, a few pictures to enjoy...

all photos courtesy of TigerNet :)

Orange love,

J

I'm a big fan of dresses so I am always looking for cute ones. I saw this one on Dillard's website while actually looking for a pair of shoes... It's so cute I had to share it. I don't like the model's hair or jewelry but the dress looks really cute.

 Gianni Bini "Poppy" Dress

$128

The Bachelorette Episode 5

I'm gonna keep it short and sweet this week...
1. Kirk is a doll. He and Ali seem to get along great
2. Justin. gross. His true colors are starting to come out. I called it week 1.
3. Chris L is adorable. I love him. I'm predicting he will be final 2.
4. Kasey. He needs captions because I can't understand a word he says.
5. Craig R is so funny. I want to hang out with him.
6. Chris N. who is he? and why was he shocked to go home? my fave quote: Ali: so tell me something about your funny side Chris n: well,l love Mexican food. what?? 
7. Roberto. my love. he makes me swoon. I say this every week but it's true.
8. TY. oh man. I am still holding out hope that she won't pick he or Roberto and I will sign up for next seasons Bachelor. They better be it. Ty is such a southern gentlemen. Love love love him.

I think that's it... I'm pretty excited about next week b/c I have a feeling rated r is going to get the boot and I'm kinda excited.

Do you guys watch? What are your thoughts?

Just FYI

This adorable Lilly tote that I blogged about a few weeks ago is now on Piperlime and on SALE for $95.99! (original price $138)

Foodie Friday

So who doesn't love french fries? I don't think I know anyone that would answer no to that question. I am a fan of sweet potatoes rather than white potatoes so anytime I'm out to eat I always order that way. One of my favorite local places called Matty's has sweet potato fries which I love, they are so good and I don't feel near as bad eating them as I do greasy regular fries.  One of my favorite healthy cook books is called "Cook Yourself Thin". (It used to also be a show on Lifetime but I haven't seen it on in a while.) The book has a super easy and super yum recipe for sweet potato fries. Not only are they totally delish, but they are totally healthy (in moderation of course).

Ingredients:

• 2 sweet potatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, plus more for sprinkling
• juice of 1/2 a lime (optional)

Directions:

• Preheat oven to 425 degrees
• Wash and dry the potatoes and, with the skin on, slice into 1/2-inch-thick rounds; cut the rounds into 1/2-inch-thick finger-shaped pieces.
• Toss the potatoes in a bowl with the oil, chili powder, garlic powder and salt. (I personally like to put all of the spices and oil into a large freezer bag then add my potatoes and shake it with the bag closed. To me its easier and they are coated evenly)
• On a baking sheet, spread the sweet potato fries in a single layer and roast, stirring every 10 minutes, until brown and tender, 30 to 35 minutes. Remove from the oven, transfer to a platter or bowl and sprinkle with a little more salt. (Cook time depends on your oven, I cook mine for about 40 minutes because I like them a little crispier)

I hope you try these because they are super yummy.. If you do let me know how they turn out!

 Tonight I am going to dinner at one of my favorite places with 2 fabulous ladies and then we are going to have Mani/Pedis. . . My idea of a perfect evening! I hope you all have a fabulous Friday!

Pink Love :)

J

Front Porch Looking In

As a southern gal I am a huge fan of porch sitting. I love it in the summertime when you can sit outside with something cold to drink and talk with the ones you love about your day. Porches are a staple in the south, it is where we recieve guests into our home, wind down a long day or go to take a sunday afternoon nap. I was recently on Southern Living's website and saw some gorgeous pictures of portches that I just have to share. I cannot wait to have my very own porch one day that I can transform into a beautiful space like these.. and as we say in the south.. come sit a while...

I love that they made this into an outdoor dining room and living space. This would be perfect for having guests over for lunch during the day or you could transform it into a formal space by changing the lighting at night.

I love this one because it seems calm and relaxed. I like how they used nautical seafoam colors to give the room a tranquil feel. They made it feel like a beach house, which I love.

I love this one because of all the outdoor plants and the overhead lighting. This porch would be perfect for entertaining.

This one just seems perfect for a sunday afternoon lunch or a late afternoon lemonade to me. I love the outdoor fireplace.

5 Reasons To Shop Kate's Sample Sale:

1. Connect Four Susan Sweater

was: $245 now: $123

2. Tutti Fruitti Dorothy Dress

was: $355 now: $249

3. Cornelia Street Noel Large Debra

was: $195 now: $89

4. Sullivan Street Straw Blakely

was: $375 now:$187

This is a perfect gameday bag for all of my fellow Clemson Tiger ladies!

5. Kate Coal Medium Heddy

was: $70 now: $35

I cannot collect enough of these organizer bags. They are perfect for cosmetics in your purse or for small toiletries when traveling.

Go Here to Get Your Kate On...

Kate Spade Sample Sale!

It almost feels like a holiday because my beloved Kate Spade is having a sample sale! Everything up to 75% off and FREE shipping on all orders! All you have to do is head over to her website and enter your name, email and zip to have access to this amazing sale! It ends on June 18th so hurry! 

Happy Shopping!

- J

The Bachelorette Episode 4

I watched this weeks episode over at my BFF K's house, so fun! It's always nice to have girlie time and catch up over a little reality TV. So here are my thoughts...
  

• Kasey- WEIRD. That date could have been so much fun if it had been with say.. Roberto, Ty or Kirk, but no.. she had Kasey. Poor girl, how awkward was it when he took started singing that ridiculous off the cuff song? Wow. And I think we all have got it loud and clear that he is there to guard and protect her heart. The Tattoo.. really? I have no words. This guy needs therapy, and laser tattoo removal.   

• Group Date- Roberto makes me swoon, I absolutely adore him. I also loved Kirk on this date, it was so sweet how he walked her back to her room to tuck her in. I also loved the guys commentary on Roberto and Ali rehearsing for Lion King, so funny.

•  Chris L- LOVE HIM! He is precious. I love how close he is to his family. I see him in the final 4 at least.

Next weeks episode looks really good! I can't wait for the 1 on 1 with Kirk..


Cheers!
-J
 

Such a deal!

Kate Landry Magazine Tote

Cute huh??

Guess how much. .

$29.99!!!! On Sale at Dillards!

Shown in Fuschia, it also comes in red, green and turquoise.

Get it now!

Have you seen these?

Last year when my family and I were vacationing in Florida I saw several people with these cute clips that held their towel in place on their chair. I had never seen these before but thought wow what a great idea. When you are on the beach it gets windy and it's hard to keep your towel from flying off your chair when you get up, so these clips looked perfect.

So imagine how excited I was when a few weeks ago while killing some time in Bed Bath and Beyond I see them! They are called Boca clips and they come in several different styles. I picked up the pink flamingos for me and the tropical bird ones for my mom. I can't wait to use them in a couple of weeks.  They are available on the Boca Clips official website or you can go to Bed Bath and Beyond like I did. They are super cute and only $5.99!

Foodie Friday

Sparkling Sweet Cherry Lemonade

Ingredients:

1 (10-ounce) package frozen pitted sweet cherries (2 cups), thawed
1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 cup sugar
5 cups chilled seltzer water, plus more to taste

 






Directions:

Add the cherries, lemon juice, and sugar to a blender and puree. Pour the mixture into a large pitcher. Add the seltzer and stir gently. Pour into glasses filled with ice and top with additional seltzer, if desired.


Servings: 2 quarts

Prep Time: 8 min

Difficulty: Easy

Courtesy of the lovely Paula Deen

Cheers!

-J

How Cute!

A few things I love from the ladies at:

Super Cute and all under $30

to get your shop on:

go here!

GLEE

In honor of tonight being the season finale of one of my favorite shows, GLEE...

I give you...

The Bachelorette Episode 3

I am literally watching the rose ceremony right now wanting to scream at my TV because Ali just gave Justin the last rose. Poor Steve, he seemed so nice I wish she had given him more time. John C. went home as well, and I am just in shock that she kept Justin AND weatherman over those two. The Previews for next week looks good, as an experienced Bachelor viewer I am guessing that they are building up this Kasey thing. Just a hunch. So.. without further adieu, my random thoughts on tonight's episode...

1. Roberto- I love this guy, and not just because he is from SC. He is AAAAADORABLE!!! He seems like the sweetest guy and it doesn't hurt that he is very easy on the eyes. I love his type of guy, a real man that makes you feel safe and loved. He and Ali are such a cute pair. I hope he makes it to final 2.
2. This group date was boring to me. I love Barenaked Ladies but the whole video thing just didn't seem like a great date to get to know people. The most awkward part was Weatherman, I just feel sorry for the guy. 
3. Frank needs to chill, I still love him though.
4. Hunter's date- AWKWARD!!
5. Justin- I don't like, he didn't earn any points with me for hobbling up the road.
6. Ty- I love. I hope he gets sent home at like final 3 so he can be the next Bachelor and I can register for his season. Love him. He needs some wardrobe help.. but I would be happy to shop with him. 
7. What and I repeat WHAT was Jesse wearing?? Denim shirt and Jeans... No Thank You. He is still a cutie, but he DEF needs wardrobe help. 
8. I love Chris from Cape Cod. I hope we see more of he and Kurt next week. They need 1 on 1 dates. 

CHEERS!
 - J

J. Crew 3 day sale!

J. Crew Sale

Gulf Coast

Unless you've been hiding under a rock, you are well aware of what is happening in the Gulf of Mexico and along its coast. Tons of people are being affected by this tragedy not to mention tons of marine life. My family recently had to change vacation plans because of it, but that is so minor compared to how others are being affected. I love the coast and it has made me so sad to think of all the marine animals and birds that have had their home polluted. 
COAST is a great family owned company that originated in Pawleys Island, South Carolina. They have great Polos for guys and have started to add items for girls too. They have designed a t-shirt especially for the Gulf Coast disaster, and I personally think they are super cute. For every t-shirt sold they will donate $5 to the Gulf Relief Foundation. I believe that every little bit helps and this is a great way to support relief efforts! COAST is a great company and I applaud them for getting involved!

T-shirts are $25 and can be purchased on their website:

COAST Apparel 

Have a fabulous Sunday!

For you and you alone awake my soul,

awake my soul and sing.

For the world you love let your will be done,

let your will be done in me.

-Chris Tomlin

Handpicked

I just wanted to share one of my absolute favorite spots to buy jewelry, a place called Handpicked. They have several locations and you can shop online from wherever you are. They have super cute jewelry and bags... check them out!

www.handpicked.net 

Top 5

The weather is absolutely beautiful in SC today. Sunny and breezy.. my favorite. Perfect tanning weather. One very important thing that I always remember to do is to put sunblock on, especially on my face. It is so important, even at a young age, to protect your face from the sun. If skin cancer alone doesn't scare you.. wrinkles sure do. Elle.com just did an article on the Top 5 sunscreens for your face, I was so happy to run across this because I have been looking for a new one to try this summer.

Happy Tanning!
- J

Kate does yellow

I am in love with Kate Spade, I think her things are just amazing. My favorite color to wear this summer has been yellow. I think yellow is the perfect pop of color for most things... and I love it with navy. So cute. So, I was so excited when I saw that Kate has been using yellow in her latest things. Here are a few that I am loving..

these items can all be found at katespade.com

June

I cannot believe that June is here! This year has flown by so far. I love the month of June and not just because it is my birth month. June is known as the month of the brides... so, in honor of today being June 1st....

If I was getting married tomorrow I would wear this dress by Monique Lhuillier

Eat this cake...

Dance to this song...

And ride off into the sunset with my prince charming in this...