The Preppy Pearl

Lately!

2011-11-30T09:26:00.001-08:00

Hey girls!

WOW! It has been forever since I posted! I feel like a slacker, but please dont quit following! I promise, a lot of hilarious (to you, normal to me) things have taken place and I am DYING to share my rediculous stories with everyone!

Y'all know my life makes any Soap Opera look like a re-run of (insert least favorite show HERE) Although, I have found that my life does resemble that of "Patsy" in the hit show "Absolutely Fabulous!"

Lately, I have been working a lot, and I MEAN a lot! Absolutely loving my job(s)!

Check out my IMDB page, soon to be updated, thank God! http://www.imdb.com/name/nm4626694/

Lets take you back...

So, in June, I was cast as CD/Carrie Matheson's Stand-In/Double for Season 1 in the new Showtime Series, "Homeland". I will be doing Season 2 as well!

Do y'all watch the show?

You totally should! It is absolutely amazing, such a nail-biter! I very much enjoyed being a part of the crew, and getting to know the cast & crew! LOVE working on "Homeland!"

Also, I am the new Traffic Girl at a News Station! LOVING it, and am so happy that those internships, and persistence have finally paid off! Not gonna lie, I despised every second I ever spent in a classroom...because I always knew I was meant to talk for a living, and every classroom I was in, that was totally not acceptable...RUDE!

17 (yes a victory lap in college) years of school taught me this in a nutshell:

When you make a career out of something you would easily do for free, thats a career! For me, its talking and acting! LOVE LOVE LOVE IT!

I am truly so blessed, and so lucky to have this job. Literally have to pinch myself somedays to believe I get to do what I ACTUALLY want to do for a living! Its a beautiful thing! I get nervous every day, which is good I think! I love everyone that I work with, they are all so talented, and incredibly nice!

Thats my life as of lately!

What have you been up to?! How was Thanksgiving?!

Venus In Fur

2011-11-30T09:03:00.000-08:00

Hey girls!

SO freaking excited for this upcoming weekend!

As I mentioned in an earlier post, I was Carrie Matheson/CD's stand in/double this past season on "Homeland"

Occassionally, I would have the privilege of talking to CD about many different things, but I remember one day having a conversation about NYC. It was always very neat to talk with her, and everyone in the cast and crew! Such fabulous people, being around that every day, and being a part of it was an incredible experience! I am so ready for Season 2!

CD told me that her husband, HD, is doing a Broadway Play in the City called Venus In Fur!

Of course, I have to see it! Thats my Christmas gift from "Santa" this year, haha! A trip to NYC and tickets to this play! SO excited! Last year, I saw "Mamma Mia", "9 To 5", and "Mary Poppins"! This year, Venus In Fur! Very much looking forward to it, Broadway is amazing.

I am going up this weekend to see the CHRISTMAS TREE, and visit my NYC '09 crew, and of course to see the play! I am so thrilled! It will be such a great play, my friend U is going with me!

2 reviews that stood out to me;

"VENUS IN FUR has TASTE, STYLE and A FLAWLESS CAST. NINA ARIANDA lives up to her growing and richly deserved legend, and HUGH DANCY is HILARIOUS."

- New York Magazine

"A SMART, SEXY, HILARIOUS COMEDY by DAVID IVES, meticulously directed by WALTER BOBBIE. NINA ARIANDA delivers A STAR-MAKING PERFORMANCE that people will be talking about for years to come. HUGH DANCY is SMASHING."

- Vogue

I am so so excited to see this play, and be back home in the City! NYC is my favorite place, I have so missed living there! It will be so good to be back there, and I LOVE seeing Broadway plays!

I'll post after I see it!

Its also my friend D's 21st Bday this weekend, I am thrilled to be up there to celebrate with everyone! Can it be Friday NOW?!

Happy Happy Labor Day!

2011-09-02T11:45:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

I hope everyone has a happy Labor Day!

I'll post this weekend!

Work has been keeping me so busy, and this is such a busy time for everyone!

Xoxo, have a fabulous Friday and a safe Labor Day Weekend!

All You Have To Do Is Let Your Feet Hit The Ground, & Worship God

2011-08-01T09:37:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

Yesterday was such a special day at our church, especially for those who just returned from the annual yearly mission trip with T.W.A.M.

T.W.A.M. stands for "Teens With A Mission" and at my church, the youth spends the year in T.W.A.M. doing servce projects, and fundraising to raise money to go on a mission trip each summer. I went twice to Reynosa, Mexico. Now, they go to Costa Rica!

I have always LOVED the fact that my mother was a leader for T.W.A.M. and shes been 7 times, shes gone with my siblings and I on every trip!

My mother and sister just got back from Costa Rica last weekend, and this past Sunday was T.W.A.M. Sunday at church. We watched a slideshow of all of their amazing pictures from the trip, and heard all about what they did.

Mother was asked to speak about the trip, and what it meant to her. Her speech left a lot of people smiling, and tearing up because she did such a beautiful job!

She thinks shes a bad public speaker, but she spoke better than our preacher (and im not partial because we're related!) She got up in front of the church and talked about so many things! She then began to tear up, which of course made me tear up as she said one thing that will forever stay on my heart!

She said that each day, all she had to do was wake up, and serve God. That was her only responsibility for that day. If everyday we could all put aside the worries, and chaos life throws at us, and remember that we are put on this earth to simply "wake up and serve God" life would be much easier!

This changed my whole perspective on life, because its so true. This life isnt about me, or material things, or how much I WANT. It is simply about getting to Heaven knowing that I have served God by helping others, treating others the way I want to be treated, andputting others first!

Mother and I were having porch time last night, and she asked me to tell her what she said, she was so nervous she didnt remember everything. That right there shows me that God used her to say what we all needed to hear.

The funniest part of her speech was when she told everyone how they had accidently knocked over the family's outhouse, so they had to rebuild their bathroom. She said "really that was an act of God, because the outhouse was horrible!"

hahaha!

I so miss going on those trips, and cannot wait to go again one day!

Have a fabulous Monday!

My 5 Favorites This Week!

2011-07-30T10:40:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

As you all know, I post my 5 favorite things whenever I get the chance! I would love to do my top 5 every week, but sometimes they just dont change, or I get so busy!

This week is my week though, im finally caught up!

1. My Volvo S40!

I've had this car for almost 10 months now, and love it! Its made a lot different than the S80 and its easier to park! I named my new little beauty queen "Vivi"!

Long story short, my Volvo S80 decided to keel over and die on the side of I-40 during a cold winter night on the way to the beach!

Ironically, we were going to celebrate Thanksgiving!

Nevertheless, she will be missed dearly, as will the monogram sticker she took down with her! She was a big gal, but so fun to drive!

I ended up looking at a few S60's and S40's, because the S80 is so big! Maybe ill switch back when im a mom! For now, the S40 is the perfect little fit!

OMG so as I said it was a cold, cold November night when my sister, her friend A, and I were so thrilled about getting to the beach for Thanksgiving!

As we were driving, my mother was behind us with all the luggage! She passed us while we were "stranded", and shortly after she saw us, being 11pm at night, she found the nearest...truck stop! Its all that was out there, the beach takes us through the COUNTRY on I-40...not cool!

She called for a tow truck, and...Oh, we got a tow truck!

30 minutes later, while the girls and I were praying, and eating morsols of crackers and water in the middle of BFE, the tow truck FINALLY got there, and umm...it was sketch!

Let me just say that I stayed pretty calm...until I met "Earl".
Earl was the tow truck driver, ugly as sin, and had the mouth of a sailor! He looked EXACTLY like the man from "The Lovely Bones" I was fearin' for my life.

He told us to climb in the truck and wait while he hooked up my precious pearl to the truck. When we got into the truck, which took wayy to much effort, we didnt like what we saw! Getting in, there was one step which I had to climb a freakin' mountain to get onto, and then get in the truck! The seats were fold out seats which nobody realized...thanks Earl! We fell out a few times, and poor A had to ride in the front!

Earl was blasting heavy metal all the way to the dealership, where we dropped my car off, and then climbed in with madre, and made it to the beach!

2. Shirley Q Liquor

Actual Website!

Church Slave

Ebonics Airways

3. Tortoise Shell Eyeglasses!

4. Lilly Pulitzer Golfcart!

This is the golfcart I want at my wedding! I love love love it! Maybe i'll ride it down the isle!

5. Preppy Men!

Have a fabulous Saturday!

My Favorite Post!

2011-07-23T13:26:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!
I got an email from another blogger asking me what my favorite post is! It has to be the one about my trip home from NYC! If you haven't read it, here it is!

So here is my last update from NYC...my trip home!
It was freakin' hilarious! It takes all kinds to make this beautiful world go round, but I didnt know it took "this" kind! I've never in my freakin' life seen anybody quite like this! If you have asthma, have your puffer handy...you wont be able to breathe after you read this story. What you're about to embark on happened on my plane ride home from the city.

So at the start of the day, I found myself running rapidly down 5th avenue to get to this Kenneth Cole event that my friend, H's company was attending! It was the Kenneth Cole premier party in his 5th avenue store for the debut of the new Metal Heeled shoe! oh HAY! We were all excited! At the door, upon entering, we all got gorgeous silver envelopes with prizes inside which were reveled when we got into the store. I got $9.50 off of any purchase, and a girl with me got $92.50! GO GIRL!
All of the girls that went worked with H at her internship, so I was really lucky that I got the chance to go! We got great pictures, and the girls got to meet the man himself, Kenneth Cole at the signing of the shoes! He would sign the shoebox of anyone that bought a pair! It was so cool! I had to catch my flight, so unfortunately I couldn't stay to meet him, but the event was fabulous!

So anyways, I get all of my bags into a cab and head to the airport...blah blah blah, none of that is really all that important, so onto the actual plane ride!

I got to my assigned seat, 32 C when...I looked down and saw a small child in my seat! Suddenly, the flight attendent appeared as if she knew I was coming and said with an ear to ear grin,
"Hello, my favorite passenger, EVER!"
(please...how many "favorite passengers ever" do you have that get reassigned seats a day?)
"How would you feel about moving to 72 B? If you do, ill bring you your favorite drink, and I dont mean a diet coke!"
HELLO my favorite flight attendent ever, I would definitly move!
Either way, I think its always important for families to sit together on planes, so obviously it was not even an issue!
I got to my new seat, 72 B, and suddenly realized I wanted that drink! When I looked at who my plane partners were, I was ready to A. take a nap, or B. strike up a meaningless conversation, because thats always fun!
Plane parnter on the right had his stunna shades on, and was listening to music. Plane partner to my left was a small lady who didnt speak english. That wasnt good, because HELLO, I needed to know...if they got airsick! Oh well, I guessed I would risk it, but NO it gets even better!

As im seated, looking left and right at my plane partners that wouldnt say a word, much less look at me, I notice this woman walking on board in a full denim jumpsuit with a big picture of "Pooh" in the middle. She was quickly, and loudly coming down the isle! She was with her grandfather, who looked JUST LIKE Sherman Klump, and kept asking him,
"Where da hell my seat be at? I ain't never flown on no plane!"
Well, a flight attendent was coming down the other way when denim jumpsuit flagged her down and said,
"excuse me bitch, oops, I mean ma'am, where my seat be at?!"
WOW, rude!
The flight attendent, which I assume only because shes paid and has to be nice, helped her get seated, and I was already getting a cramp from laughing so hard! I had to laugh silently though, and luckily the guy across the isle was laughing with me...but nobody else was...AWKWARD!

Well okay moving on, we go to take off and all of the sudden I hear this rediculous "AHHHHHH, SHIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIT!"

At first, before SHIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIT came out, I thought the plane was malfunctioning because it sounded like nails on a chalkboard...anyways I quickly realized that denim jumpsuit was havin a breakdown!

I looked back, quickly!
Her grandfather, aka, Sherman Klump was sitting beside her with his hands folded in his lap laughin at her!

HELLO, for the sake of everyone, could he please put a muzzle on that!

All of the sudden, still in take off mode, she yells
"Bitch, I cant do dis,
then louder...
I CANT DO DIS,
GET ME THA HELL OFF THIS BITCH,
AHHHHH, SHIIIIT,
AHHHH, IM DYIN,
IM DYIN!

...I felt really bad for her at first, but there were kids on the plane, and she was cussin like a sailor!

All of the sudden the words started to die down, the IM DYiInNNnnn..got quieter and quieter, I looked back and flight attendent number 2 was putting an oxygen mask on her, she hyperventeliated and passed out!
AHH oh my gosh! I seriously was like shocked! if that wasnt bad enough once we got in the air, the plane dropped 10 feet, and she quickly woke up, and yelled "JESUS PLEASE, AHH LET ME OUT!"
The flight attendent informed her that unless she had a parachute, which obviously heights werent her thing, we were 1500 feet up and her crazy ass was stayin put! She screamed for another 10 minutes, and then passed out again!

Im sorry, but YES I was laughing, mainly because everyone on the plane was in mild shock...I had to laugh silently, but oh my gosh!

When we landed, she started screaming again, but they told her we were on the ground. As soon as we landed, fasten seatbelt sign still on and all, she gets up, got on her knees, and screamed "I MADE IT, I DID DIS! WHAT NOW!
The flight attendent had to restrain her back to her seat, grandpa still laughin!
I have never in my life been so freaked out, amused, and all around confused hahahaha!

What a trip!

Welcome home!

Have a great Thursday!

Teen Spirit

2011-07-20T06:27:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

If y'all wanna play a fun little game called "Where's Katie?!" tune into ABC Family on August 7th @ 8pm/7c to watch the premier of the movie, "Teen Spirit".

Teen Spirit stars "Pretty Little Liars" star, Lindsay Shaw and "Make It Or Break It" star Cassie Scerbo.

Teen Spirit was so much fun to film, and I was cast as a member of "the Posse"! Again, I haven't heard "posse" since referring to the Mexican Gangs at my crazy high school, so I refer to our "group" as "the click!"

LOVED IT! That was my first "movie" which led to "Pirhana 3DD! :)

Check out more at this link; http://abcfamily.go.com/movies/teen-spirit

Have a fabulous Wednesday!

the big C

2011-06-30T12:48:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

So, recently, with my crazy schedule with this new job, I have had a good bit of down time!

I was reading People Magazine the other day when a show on Showtime called "the big C" was mentioned! I have never really seen the show, but it has one of my very favorite actress', Laura Linney! Also, my favorite Simon Birch actor, Oliver Platt!

It portrays how Cathy (played by Laura Linney) battles her stage 4 melanoma with humor, and living her life to the fullest!
Of course, I had to watch it!

Also, the show stars Gabbie Sidibe, better known as "Precious" in a hilarious role as one of Linney's students with a bad ass attitude!

Here is a really good article about how the show also helps support the American Cancer Society!

Its a wonderful show with a great message in every episode!

Y'all should watch it, if you haven't yet!

My Life Lately!

2011-06-30T12:45:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

Life has been so busy lately, as everyone's is! I just started a new job out of Charlotte, NC for the next few months! I am so excited about it! I cant say much, but its my dream job at this point, im in Heaven!

I just wrapped filming 2 movies in Wilmington; 1 I was really just an extra (hey whatever my agent wants, she gets!) , and the other I am a lifeguard...ahem who strangles herself to death trying to save a life in the film! HAHA! Lifeguard of the freakin' year!

That was my most exciting role because I had my first line!!

For the next few months, I will be living in Charlotte and working as much as possible. This new job is my dream job, and I freaking love it!

My career in acting has been slow, but I love every second of it! Everyday I work, i'm so happy! I would do a job like this for free!

There are so many things I have to update you all with, it is so hard to know where to start. I've had "writers block" for a while now, and cant seem to blog! I hope y'all still keep up though, because I am trying to get back in the habit of posting once a week! :)

Have a great Thursday!

2011-06-16T10:57:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

I'm still waiting on an e-mail from the people at Lilly, I am so excited to hear what they have for us!

For now, I will share that for the summer, I am in the process of interviewing for a Freelance reporter position with a local newspaper. Today, while applying, I got to go dig up all of the old articles that I wrote for Lumina Newspaper while I interned for them last summer! Oh, how I miss it!

I am putting them on here so that I will always have them! I have the hard copies as well! Loved that job!

I will post more soon, feel more guilty all the time about not keeping up with blogging right now, its just that (as I am sure you all know) life is so busy! I have much to post, and even a giveaway coming up! Love to you all!

Have a fabulous Thursday!

Pineapple pride

Have a ball at Camp Landfall!

Camp Landfall bakes kooky cupcakes

Padgett to be honored during July Fourth tradition

Food for love

Junior league Derby Day soiree

Skip the sauce, savor the spice

A bluberry by any other name is a Newberry

Duffy, Kathleen's up-and-coming label

Young entrepreneurs vend baked goods at farmers' market

Lilly Warehouse Sale!

2011-06-11T08:13:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!
I know, its been months! Forgive me! I have so much to share, but for now I am in King of Prussia at the Lilly Warehouse Sale! I gave the handsome fella in charge my business card, so they will be in touch soon for info to share with you!

I got 4 dresses, and a gold charm bracelet! I also got mother a gorgeous dress! I hope she loves it!

Please dont give up on this Preppy Pearl Girl! Love to you all! I will post more tonight. For now, the girls and I will trek back down to Georgetown University (where my angel friend goes to grad school!)

Have a fabulous Saturday!

Were/are any of you at the Lilly Sale?!

WBTV Wrote A Story On Yours Truly!

2011-05-18T07:08:00.001-07:00

Hey girls!

I am so sorry to be so spiratic with posts lately! It has been so crazy with filming Pirannah 3DD, a Kroger Commercial, and with other auditions!

I have some HUGE news, but must wait a few days before I can post about it, I am so ready to share!

I hope you're all doing great! I promise to catch you all up so soon!

Your blogs make me laugh so hard, and smile too! Loving all of your cute posts, and I promise to update soon!

Please find and "like" my facebook page under "Katherine Elizabeth Garner"
Also, please view my website at Katherinegarner.webs.com

A wonderful reporter that I interned with at WBTV wrote a story on me recently, which took me completely by surprise! I was so excited, and wanted to share it on here!

Thank you so much to WBTV for all of your support! It was my favorite (and my 1st) internship! I cant believe they wrote a story, but am so thankful!

Thank you to all of my followers and readers here in blogworld too, thank you so much for all of your sweet emails, comments, and support!

Here is a link to the story!

"Lights, Camera, Katie!"

Thanks again WBTV, I love y'all!

Have a fabulous Wednesday!

Easter!

2011-04-25T11:17:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

How was everyone's Easter?
Mine was, as always, hilarious!

I kept thinking Saturday was Easter, because Mother's family was coming so of course I just got wayyy mixed up!

I was a little worried when I woke up a 6am, you know, just because, and thought the Easter Bunny had forgotten my Citizens Jeans!
...oh no!

Saturday, Mother's family all came to our house, which was so much fun! They are more reserved then Fathers family, so its always nice on holidays because its the best of both worlds!

Everyone brought something for lunch, and it was so good!

*I have this theory that it doesn't matter what I eat during the months of December to May, because HELLO, if anyone (including the doctor) asks...
"I'm carrying a little holiday weight."

After lunch, thankfully we took a fun walk through the park by our house and talked about my sisters upcoming prom! For prom they take pictures in the same park, its such an exciting event! Anyways, while we were walking, we saw some people setting up for a wedding! How wonderful!

Until...as we walked by, they approached us (my 80 year old grandmother was with us) and asked us if we would mind "grabbing a couple of chairs"

My sister beat me to it when she claimed that "it would be so rude not to sit with Grandmother" bahaha!

Leisurely walk > crushing my big toe with a whale of a chair.
No bueno

After the walk, we all ate dessert!
I practically ate a whole pie, sorry i'm not sorry! It was fabulous!

It was so good to see everyone, I feel like I dont see my entire family enough! Easter was so nice this year, absolutely loved it!

Easter Sunday is my favorite Sunday of the year! Everyone looks so fabulous in their Easter attire! Props to all of the handsome Southern Gentleman wearing their bow ties, I fell in love 4 times while I was sitting in the balcony on Sunday!
(If Mother asks, one of those times was with the Sermon, but really I saw 4 gorgeous boys in their Easter themed bows!)

So, we went to Church, LOVED it! I loved the Sermon, and the Easter Lilly's looks absolutely beautiful.

Also, I got to see so many of my close friends from High School who I only get the chance to see on holidays, so its always special! My mother and sister stayed and chatted until 12:15, which normally is when most people wrap it up and get to Sunday lunch!

OOPS! I stayed and talked until 12:45!
(maybe I need that gold Michael Kors watch so i'll be able to see the time! ;)

After church, we headed to the lake house to spend Easter with the family, and OMG it was absolutely beautiful outside!

I love hiding, and hunting for eggs...you're never too old.

I have a 2 year old cousin, L, and then two more little ones who are children of cousins that I LOVE seeing! They are all growing up so fast!

After lunch, all of the girls were doing dishes, and I was asked not to help, because I may have broken a plate...or 5. They thought the better job for me would be to hide the eggs.

I'm not gonna pretend I wasnt hurt, I mean really?!

Anyways, so I was hiding the eggs when I looked behind me to find my cousin T, and my sister S rehiding all of them!

S'CUSE ME!?

That's right, they thought I was making it too easy.
Umm, i'm sorry, I didn't realize we were hiding eggs for baby prodigies!
...RUDE!

Lawd, I just made myself a drink and took a boat ride, cant go wrong with that! :)

All 3 of the kids who really can barely walk and talk all lined up on the front steps to hunt for eggs, and of course the 1 GOLDEN EGG with the hard cash.

There used to be a $20 in that egg, but
Its like my Nana said (as she pulled up in her new car)
"the recession really affected the Easter Egg hunt this year"

BAHAHA!

Of all things, its affected the Easter Egg Hunt! God forbid!

My Nana might be the funniest lady EVER!
I freaking LOVE being with her! She says the funniest things!

After the egg hunt, we had family game time!

This year we played Scattergories. Normally, its Rummikub, but we needed a change!

I get a little competitive
...meaning I never lose I don't care what it takes!
Sorry im not sorry for the insults, and emotional (sometimes physical) scarring happening to my opponents...
Everyone's given fair warning before we start...
My team name is always "The Cougars"!

After family game time, which haha, didn't last long, we all took a boat ride around the lake and it was absolutely beautiful! It makes me want Summer to begin, because seriously there is nothing like being around family! They love you no matter what, so its always fun!

I hope all of you had a great Easter, too!

Have a great Monday!

Handmade Jewerly!

2011-04-25T09:59:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

I have got to share this fabulous website with you! I'm obsessed, this handmade jewelry is so fabulous, and made right in the heart of New York City!

Katie Bartels Handmade Jewelry consists of all handmade jewelry, which i'll be adding to my collection VERY soon!
All of the pieces are so pretty, and will go with anything!

Founder, Katie Bartels love for jewelry began when she was just 18 months old in Connecticut At that time, she started wearing a plastic pearl necklace everywhere!

Bartels graduated from Cornell University, which is also where she began a very successful career! In the summer of 2007, while browsing through Barneys, Katie was approached by another stylish customer and asked about her colorful chalcedony, cubic zirconia, and rock crystal quartz necklace. After learning that Bartels' designed and constructed the necklace, the customer asked where she could purchase her designs. At the time, Katie only designed jewelry for herself, but a light bulb went off in Katie’s head and she decided to start selling her designs.

Yellow Socks LLC was incorporated in the fall of 2007. Katie named her Company after her late grandfather’s signature sock color. Her designs began selling in three Fairfield County, CT, boutiques. Two years later, Katie left her job at a New York City law firm to pursue her passion for jewelry design full-time. In the summer of 2010, Katie received a Graduate Gemology degree from the Gemological Institute of America. She now creates her one-of-a-kind pieces in her Manhattan studio.

What a story, and such a successful person!

Read her interview with RetailDJ

On the website, there are four gorgeous collections featured!

The 4 collections are as follows;
Gemstone, Pearls & Sparkle, Multi-Color Jade & Quartz, and Wood Pieces.

Here are a few of my very favorite pieces from each individual collection!

Gemstone

;

Pearls & Sparkle

Multi- Color Jade & Quartz

Wood Pieces

Please visit Katie Bartel's website!

Also, she has a blog too! I am following it, and so should YOU!

It's called Passports and Pearls !

Go add this fabulous fellow blogger & entrepreneur to your blogroll!

To contact Katie Bartels:
Please e-mail her at katie@katiebartels.com
*You can also contact her directly from her website!

Here are all of the links, so that you can order these fabulous pieces, TODAY!

Blog: Passports & Pearls
Website: Katie Bartels
Facebook
Twitter

Happy Happy Easter!

2011-04-21T11:18:00.001-07:00

Hey girls!

That ravin' beauty in the picture is a rabbit in celebration of Easter & THE NEW PET MY FRIEND IS GETTING! Oh, HAY its so ugly its cute! I want one too, i'm asking for it for Easter because mother told me the shih-tzu was out...no bueno!

What are y'all doing for Easter?

I am so excited to be heading home today! My mother is hosting Easter with her family at our house this year. It will be so nice to have her side of the family over for the day! On Sunday, we are of course heading to church and then down to the lake to see Father's side of the family! I just love holidays!

I'm gonna eat SO much food, people wont recognize me when I get back! I freaking love when my mother, grandmother, & nana cook for holidays! Its never ending, and im always first in line (much to my familys dismay : ) )

Last weekend, I headed home because, I hadnt been home in over a month! I called my Grandmother to see if I could come to Charlotte and go to Church with her. I hadn't been to her Church in forever, but I LOVE it! The sermons are always short and sweet, and they have really good grape juice for communion!

Well, I got there Sunday morning, and walked in to be greeted by the usher! I walked halfway down the isle, and realized...I was in the wrong Church!

AHHHHH!

Bahaha, I walked out, and can only assume that the poor usher thought I just wasn't having it!

I walked across the street, and into the Presbyterian Church to find my sweet Grandmother waiting. I told her what happened, and now the whole church knows...why? why.

This weekend, im going to First Pres at home, and cannot wait to see everyone!

I hope you all have such a happy Easter!

Here are my latest adventures in a nutshell!

I just sent my final submission for the QVC Host position in yesterday! Fingers crossed : )

I have 2 commercials on hold, and an audition tomorrow in Charlotte!

LA in September is underway, so so excited!

Life is so freakin busy, as everyones is, so dont stop reading! I will post soon : )

SO many updates on "Teen Spirit" and everything else after this weekend, I promise!

Have a fabulous Easter!

Stumbleupon

2011-04-11T11:39:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

I found this AMAZING app on my phone for a site called StumbleUpon! It is so addicting, and so much fun! I have found the cutest sites to buy shoes, or good quotes, or even wine recipies! Y'all should check it out if you haven't already!

I will be doing a huge post about Teen Spirit very soon, it was amazing, I have met some of the sweetest friends on set, and just loved every minute of it!

School is keeping me way too busy right now, but I did want to drop in and post this great list of "100 Ways To Uncomplicate Your Life!" I found it on...StumbleUpon!

I hope you are all doing well, and I read your blogs often! Updates soon ladies!

Have a wonderful Monday!

ABC Family Film: Teen Spirit

2011-03-31T11:28:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

I am so sorry i've been slack lately! I have been in Wilmington filming with the ABC Family Film, "Teen Spirit"! This weekend I get to go to the "Prom" for 4 days, and I am just loving every minute of this!

My teachers are fabulous people who are working with me to make this happen, I have had the best time! I filmed all last weekend, and will be filming all this weekend as a member of "The Posse"

I havent heard the name "The Posse" since 6th grade, or in High School when referring to the Hispanic Gangs...real cute!

I prefer "The Click!"

I want to post and tell you all about this unbelievable experience, and I will just as soon as we wrap! I'll upload all the pictures!

Have a wonderful weekend!

The Proust Questioniare

2011-03-16T07:34:00.000-07:00

Hey y'all!

While I was in New York City filming and visiting some friends over Spring Break, a few of us went inside the beautiful New York Public Library!

It was so gorgeous, and historic! We spent probably close to 2 hours just wandering around, looking at everything! Think about how many movies have been filmed there, I HAD to watch Sex and the City afterward! (Wasn't her wedding there)?!

Anyways, we spent a lot of time in the bookstore, and they had everything! I almost bought "Jane Austen's Guide to Good Manners"! That would make 58 etiquette books, but instead I bought this book I have been wanting FOREVER!

Vanity Fair's Proust Questionnaire.

It has all of these fabulous people's surveys, and it was really fun to read their answers. Annette Bening is my FAVORITE actress, alongside Claire Danes, and duh Kelly Ripa! Her survey was really fun, shes a trip!

Also, Julie Andrews, Ray Charles, Tony Bennett, and so many others made my wait in the airport worth it!

I was so shocked to see that many of the celebrities, including Julie Andrews thought that Chastity, Piousness, and Virginity were the most overrated virtues. LAWD I did not see that coming, oops! I hate to be the last virgin on earth, but you know, that's just how it goes!

Here are a few of my favorite (that I could find) Proust Surveys!

Julie Andrews!
My FAVORITE supastar, Bette Midler!
My favorite News Guru, Katie Couric! Shes practically my hero!
My favorite tennis player, Rafael Nadal!
ELLEN!
My favorite "Golden Girl"Betty White!
He won 10 World Series Rings!
My favorite song is "You're So Vein"!
LOVE me some Dustin Hoffman!
Martha Stewart, think SNL Christmas Special! Bahaha!

I'm gonna tag anyone who wants to do this! Fill it out, and y'all can pass it on!

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

Heaven. New York is a close 2nd.

What is your greatest fear?

The death of a loved one, the dark, & Hilary Clinton's wardrobe...bitch needs a stylist!

The quality you most admire in a man?

I love a good side part! Also, a sense of humor, kindness, style, and confidence!

The quality you most admire in a woman?

Wit & Humor

What is your greatest extravagance?

Lilly Pulitzer shift dresses, trips to New York City, & etiquette books

What do you dislike most about your appearance?

I have the neck of a giraffe. Maybe it could shrink, and my legs could grow a few inches?!

Which living person do you most admire?

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?

I am an incurable workaholic, and don't have the slightest clue how to relax!

What is the trait you most deplore in others?

Having no sense of humor & arrogance, I despise people like this!

What is your greatest regret?

That I wasn't alive to invest in stock when Ralph Ketner founded Food Lion in my hometown!

On what occasion do you lie?

1. My parents don't need to know everything
2.Deb Season scared me enough to know that lying to avoid hurting someone you care about, or when I need to get out of an event I really don't want to go to...is just ok!
3. Ive been known to exaggerate my stories a little bit, but they are so much funnier, sorry im not sorry!

What is your favorite journey?

My life journey, every day. I love being alive! Currently, my journey OUT of Meredith College, and back to NYC is high on the list. Also, any journey I take on a plane, I love flying

What do you consider the most overrated virtue?

Silence-it's boring, and for those like me who have a touch of a.d.d, it's impossible.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?

1. I spend 10 hours out of my day laughing, but I don't think laughter ever gets old.

2. "Honest to God..."

3. "Y'all"

4. I love putting "Bitch" at the end of most of my sentences.

5. I say "Love it" way to much!

What or who is the greatest love of your life?

I won't say who, but I will always regret never saying anything! Also, my family & friends. I love love love writing & sending out resumes/cover letters. I probably send out close to 15 a day! Is that an addiction?!

When and where were you happiest?

The Summer of 2009 in New York City, I met some of my best friends! Also, working at the HIR, and living with family and friends on Wrightsville Beach, NC! Everyone I got to know is so incredibly sweet and I just LOVED it!

Which talent would you most like to have?

to sing with the voice of Whitney Houston! Too much?!

What is your current state of mind?

Enthusiastic & Curious.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

I haven't achieved it yet.

If I had to choose, it would be having 2 successful resumes. 1 consisting of 9 internships, 3 jobs, and tons of extracurriculars, and the other consisting of my talent credits.

What is your most treasured possession?

My family & friends, my Volvo, my therapist, my etiquette books, my doctor who prescribes my pharmaceuticals and B12 injections to keep the metabolism in check ;), & my diamond bracelet & ring that I got for my 16th and 21st birthday from mother.

Where would you like to live?

Wrightsville Beach. I would live right beside the loop, and on the sound. Real talk, I wanna live in Seapath Estates! I already have my favorite house/dock picked out! That way, I could work at HIR, film for work, walk the loop, and live in one of my favorite places all day ery day!

New York City, because its so fast paced! It feels like home there! I would love to live there with everyone from 09', work, & network. I would absolutely love it!

You know what? Maybe i'll start my life in the City, & move back to the beach with my future family! What a plan!
...Im such a dreamer!

Realistically, I would love to live wherever I can work as a professional actress, so I guess i'll be investing in, & living out of a festive RV for my cross country trips to audition!

What is your favorite occupation?

Headhunter, and of course professional actress.

What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?

Obesity, that must suck!

What is your most marked characteristic?

I'm sure it differs depending on who you ask BUT, my wit & humor are my personal favs.

What do you most value in your friends?

My friends are Angels, we bring out the best in each other! Love them!

How would you like to die?

I wouldn't like it.

However, when I do I hope to die remembered; Preferably with my name on a Hollywood Star!

If you could choose a person or thing to come back as, what would it be?

Duh!! Kelly Ripa! I would already be a millionaire by now. She took a risk, dropped out of college, got cast in a Soap Opera, and of course married her hot husband, Mark Consuelos!

Also, I would love to be the Tory Burch Flat's that a celebrity is wearing daily! I would look great, and get to walk around so many fabulous places!

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I want to feel less guilty, and I would love to laugh more!

What is your motto?

“Nobody puts Baby in a corner.”

The biggest adventure you can ever take is to live the life of your dreams.

2011-02-28T11:00:00.000-08:00

Hey girls!

The quote in the heading says it all...my imagination just isn't enough anymore, I know what I want to do, and the path that God has for me, and I am ready to get with it! Im ready to move to NYC or LA, and become a professional actress!

A lot has been going on lately! I wont bore you with school talk, because I dont even wanna bore myself talking about it, but I will share with you whats been going on with acting lately!

I have been getting more involved with professional acting, and am getting very serious about turning it into a career. I have been praying a lot about it over the last few months, and all of the peices are truly falling together perfectly! The only thing (for lack of a better way of saying this) that is still holding me back is school...oh skewl! Yes I am still finishing up with my little bit of sanity, and absolutely no patience! I have been so blessed with so many great opportunities lately, and I am just ready to get out (not that it doesn't have its moments, its not THAT bad)& start living the life that I want to live!

To start out:

A few weeks ago, I was so excited when I got the call that I was going to be in the Wedding episode of One Tree Hill! We all filmed for 3 days and I had the best time! I met some of the most wonderful people, and had a great time on the set! You can watch the episode on the link listed at the bottom of the blogpost!

Next I filmed the pilot episode of "Playing With Guns" starring Danny Masterson! He was so much fun to meet, I stood beside him in one scene which took around 2 hours to film, and that just made me smile! I met the director, and he spoke to me, and said he would keep my name and to get in touch when I moved to LA (YES, I am moving to LA!) He is a really nice person and I was so excited to be a part of the show!

Next up!

I just got the call last night that I will be filming with...

BLUE BLOODS in New York City!

I am so excited! I am filming on the 9th, and cannot wait to see what possibilities this could bring!

It is all just one step at a time, but I am loving every single minute of it!

If I could, I swear I would quit school, drive to LA or NYC tomorrow, and live in my car just to do auditions every day!

*When I told my mother that I would live in my car, she almost fell out of her chair (bahaha!), and it wasnt the wine she was only 1 glass in! I guess i'll be getting an apartment after all, sorry Hilary Swank, we won't get famous with the same story!

I love acting so much, the whole experience is what I am meant to do! I pray all the time, and at this point I just want to go and chase my goals!

I listed my talent website at the bottom of the blog too, so you can look if you want to!

I am also...

Get ready...

MOVING TO LOS ANGELES OR NYC!!!!!

LA would mean that I would have the 2 cutest roommates, Southern Belles just like me that are moving to act as well! One of them I met through my agency, and we did a commercial together, and then ended up filming 'Playing With Guns" together! We are the perfect pair for parts! She is fabulous, and very driven which help keep me motivated! Her friend is a wonderful photographer, and so the 3 of us are moving to LOS ANGELES to do our very best to make our wildest dreams come true! I am so blessed, and so lucky to have met these girls and be able to have great roommates and friends in Los Angeles! I cannot wait to see what the future holds for all 3 of us!

Here are some of my favorite quotes said by my homegirl, Oprah! Not only do I have some of these written on my mirror to constantly remind me that life is a gift, and I can live however I choose, but I also believe in each one of these quotes!

They continually keep me motivated and faithful that I am meant to follow my dreams!

"Before you agree to do anything that might add even the smallest amount of stress to your life, ask yourself: What is my truest intention?"

"My philosophy is that not only are you responsible for your life, but doing the best at this moment puts you in the best place for the next moment."

"I know for sure that what we dwell on is who we become."

"The big secret in life is that there is no big secret. Whatever your goal, you can get there if you're willing to work."

"The biggest adventure you can ever take is to live the life of your dreams."

"Understand that the right to choose your own path is a sacred privilege. Use it. Dwell in possiblity."

"Every time you state what you want or believe, you're the first to hear it. It's a message to both you and others about what you think is possible. Don't put a ceiling on yourself."

"This is your moment. Own it."

"I always knew I was destined for greatness."

"Passion is energy. Feel the power that comes from focusing on what excites you."

(NOT Charlie Sheen style!)

"What God intended for you goes far beyond anything you can imagine."

"What I know is, is that if you do work that you love, and the work fulfills you, the rest will come."

"You know you are on the road to success if you would do your job, and not be paid for it."

Here are some pictures from One Tree Hill!

One Tree Hill: Season 8 Episode 13; The Other Half Of Me

My Talent Website

Lillyopoly!

2011-02-28T10:44:00.001-08:00

Hey girls!

Forget college, ill learn alllll about investing with my new educational learning tool; Lillyopoly!

Okay, so I doubt anybody will wanna play with me on family game night, but frankly I dont care! I'll play by myself!

Lillyopoly is perfect for a Lilly Fan or the perfectly preppie person who has always dreamed of a pink & green version of the classic board game Monolopy!

Lillyopoly has the cutest look! It comes with pink and green "boutiques" (hotels) and "juice stands" (houses). The playing peices are mini versions of the "shift dress", palm trees, monkeys, ect!

AND my favorite part, is that the police are "FASHION POLICE"!

AHH!

SO EXCITED about this!

Have a fabulous Tuesday!

I Ordered My...

2011-02-23T19:24:00.000-08:00

Derby Hat!

I monogrammed it

"kGe"

The colors are the same as in the picture!

I am so thrilled to have this ordered and shipped so I know it will arrive before the Cup!

Have a great Tuesday!

Carolina Cup 2011

2011-02-22T08:09:00.001-08:00

Hey girls

Well, its officially time to start planning my outfit for Carolina Cup 2011!

Who else is going? Are you going with a big group, fraternity, ect?!

I am so excited, I love going to the Cup every year and seeing all of the fun outfits...and the occasional horse!

I am trying to decide on a dress, and have found some cute ones at Brooks Brothers, and of course LILLY!

Who knows?!
Will keep you updated!

Have a great Tuesday!

Anchored Style!

2011-02-16T09:22:00.000-08:00

Hey girls!

Anchored Style

The newest "surfer-prep" brand ready to set sail, and drop its anchor into your closet!

This brand is up and coming, and ready to provide your wardrobe with a touch of class for the upcoming Spring season!

In the words of Mark Twain, take a moment to "throw of the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor, and catch the trade wind in your sails."

For the past 9 months, creator, Lauren Siktberg has been living Twain's famous words and setting out to "dream, discover, explore, and to be frank, work her tail off!"

Her days are spent searching, and throwing herself into researching, planning, and designing Anchored Style!

Anchored Style wasn't just created by one set of eyes, ears, and one opinion. Oh no, Anchored Style was created by all of the eyes, ears, and opinions of local sailors, surfers, kite boarders, sun bathers, and fishermen to encompass what people truly want in their clothing!

Anchored Style was created by pouring an immense amount of time, and effort into the "Surfer-Prep" style that it has become!

As Anchored Style sets sail, we hope it will drop the anchor into your wardrobe for this Spring season!

We know you're convinced, but just in case...

Here are a few of my personal favorite pieces from this seasons fabulous collection!

The Salt Wash Nautical Red Signature Hat
$26.00

Shade your eyes from the afternoon glare!

*As you all know, I am very passionate about Skin Cancer Awareness. Therefore, I have this hat in every color, protecting myself from Skin Cancer in style!

The hats are made from,

· 100% Cotton-twill

· 6-panel, unconstructed

· Antique brass snap w/tuck in closure

· Signature embroidered logo

Colors: Salt Wash Nautical Red, Salt Wash Sunset Orange, Salt Wash Khaki, Salt Wash Navy, Salt Wash Channel Marker Green

Size: One Size

The KOOZIE!
The Whiskey Flag Neoprene Koozie
$5.00

Keep your favorite beverage cool while you lay out on the beach, or set sail on the boat.

* Laminated Open Cell Foam
* Folds flat for pocket or purse for storage
* Ideal for cans or bottles

Color: Navy

Size: One Size

Visit Anchored Style to see the latest tee shirts, sweat shirts, croakies, and hoodies! You may just get a free sticker!

Happy Shopping!

To Contact Anchored Style:

Headquarters:

ANCHORED STYLE
500 Belcher Road S, Suite 174
Largo, FL 33771
27° 54' N

-82° 44' W

727.470.9294 (Phone)
727.362.1988 (Fax)

lauren@anchoredstyle.com

*If you're contacting us regarding an order please be sure to enter the order number in the subject field for a quicker response.

Anchored Style on Twitter!
Anchored Style on Facebook!
Anchored Style Blog!
Anchored Style Website!

50 Years Ago

2011-01-21T08:43:00.001-08:00

"Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country."

JFK, 50 years ago yesterday.

Words that still ring true.

John F Kennedy Library Online!

Here are some of my favorite pictures of the Kennedy Family.

Jackie O is in a Lilly Pulitzer Dress, timeless!

John F Kennedy Library

Have a great Friday!

Slim Aarons Photography

2011-01-21T08:24:00.000-08:00

Hey y'all!

I greatly admire Slim Aarons photography. Something about each photo genuinely stands out, and captures my attention.

Slim Aarons was an American photographer noted for photographing socialites, jet-setters and celebrities.

His most noteworthy photograph was shot in California during 1957.
Kings of Hollywood, a 1957 New's Year's Eve photograph that depicted Clark Gable, Van Heflin, Gary Cooper and James Stewart relaxing at a bar in full formal wear.
(does it get any better?!)

Aaron's work appeared in Life, Town & Country and Holiday magazines.

One aspect of his work that most impresses me, is that Aarons never used a stylist, or a makeup artist.

Aarons claims that his career was simply made on "photographing attractive people doing attractive things in attractive places."

What a perfect way to make a living!

Aarons has 4 photobooks that I am aware of, called

* A Wonderful Time: An Intimate Portrait of the Good Life (1974)

* Slim Aarons: Once Upon a Time (2003)

* Slim Aarons: A Place In the Sun (2005)

* Poolside with Slim Aarons (2007)

Poolside with Slim Aarons is my personal favorite, the pictures are absolutely beautiful

Here are some of my favorite pictures!

The cover of his first book A Wonderful Time: An Intimate Portrait of the Good Life (1974).

This is a personal favorite of mine!

Slim Aarons’s iconic photograph of the Pendletons entertaining guests beside the pool of their Beverly Hills home, circa 1960. By Slim Aarons/Getty Images.

Brooks Brothers Spring 2011

2011-01-21T08:06:00.000-08:00

Hey y'all!
Brooks Brothers has been my store of choice for a long time, they are timeless, classic, and will always be a preppy's top pick!

As Spring approaches, new outfits (and debutantes!) are making their debut into this preppy society, so here are some of my favorite pieces from this Spring 2011 Lookbook!

Some of the pieces I was not as fond of, which is highly unusual for Brooks Brothers, but a few of the mens pants, and shorts featured CARGOS!

No bueno.

However, there are 2 pieces that immediately struck my attention!

When you spot the man in the bright pants with the fabulous embroidery, and the colorful dress on the female, those are my two top picks for this upcoming season!

Have a great Friday!

Also, I want to point out that Social Primer has teamed up with Brooks Brothers, and together they have collaborated a bowtie collection that is to die for!

Priced at just $59.50, every preppy should own (more than) one!

Today Show

2011-01-21T07:36:00.000-08:00

If I were George, I would NOT be able to keep a straight face!

Woman Falls Into Fountain

bahahahahahahahahahaha!

...I think her pride hurts worse than the fall did!

Has anyone else seen this, I cannot believe she is bringing a lawyer into it!

Idiot.

New Books!

2011-01-13T09:02:00.000-08:00

Hey girls!

I have been dying for some new reads, as I have finished up True Prep, and a few others! My good friend T and I exchanged etiquette books for Christmas this year, and it was the best idea! The books I got were wonderful, and I gave him one of the fabulous Brooks Brothers books, "A Gentleman Gets Dressed Up", as well as "True Prep"!

Today, I have just ordered my long awaited copy of "Tipsy In Madras", and "Going To Work"!

Going To Work was hard to come by, but since it is by one of my favorite authors, Lisa Birnbach, and I am going to be a work-a-holic, I thought why not!?

Tipsy In Madras just looks fun, and T recommended it!

I also went to the bookstore yesterday, and bought the most beautiful little book entitled "Stuff Every Woman Should Know" I dont really want to read it, but the cover is just too pretty to pass up!

My next buy will probably be the Brooks Brothers book entitled, "Classic Wisdom For The Good Life". It is filled with fabulous quotes! I love a good quote, so I cannot wait to get my hands on this book!

Do y'all have any suggestions? I am always looking for more to add to the collection, im going to need a bigger book case soon!

Have a great Thursday!

A New Year, New Clothes!

2011-01-12T12:40:00.001-08:00

Hey girls!

I have so much to post about, not even including the last 8 months of Beach Life!

It has been the most fun, and the most needed journey of my life, I have absolutely loved every minute! I have met some of my best friends, and had the best time...now I am back in my last semester of school, and I will post about everything that went/is going on as soon as I can!

For now, though, I will be posting about the newest favorites from Vineyard Vines, Anchored Style, Tucker Blair, Port Southern, Coast Apparel, and anything else that I find to be absolutely fabulous!

Peices has some fabulous new peices on their site, as does A.Tierney!

So, in just a few days, I will have new posts for you to view...I do hope everyone is still reading, even though I have been just awful about blogging lately!

I hope you had a very Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year!

What was your favorite gift, or your New Years Resoloution?!

Have a great Wednesday!

Merry Merry!

2010-12-21T09:08:00.000-08:00

Hey y'all!

I have got to pop in and wish all of my readers, and bloggers a very MERRY Christmas! I hope everyone has a wonderful time with whomever you spend this perfect Holiday with!

I'll be thinking about all of you, and praying for all of you that this holiday brings great things, and is the start of your best year yet! I hope everyone is doing fabulous!

Merry Christmas, friends! Love to you all!

I will blog more after the new year, after all, it is one of my resoloutions!! I am so sorry I have been so slack, life has been crazy busy, as I am sure everyone's has been!

Blog soon!

Merry Merry!

Mad For Plaid, 1973

2010-11-21T21:55:00.000-08:00

Is this not the most handsome preppie EVER!? LOVE his suit!

Here is the blog I found it on!

I will post more later this week...stuff has been so fun & busy lately!

QUESTION!

2010-11-10T11:12:00.000-08:00

Hey girls!

If your blog isnt listed in my blogroll, and you want it there, leave me a comment and I will add you! :)

Have a great Wednesday!

I will post soon about all thats been going on, and a new brand I am working for! You will LOVE it!

Wake Up Muffy! We're Back!

2010-10-29T07:17:00.001-07:00

Hey girls!

A few weeks ago, I got an e-mail from a fellow preppy in New York asking me to do a review on the books, "True Prep", written by the famous Lisa Birnbach, and Chip Kidd (Lisa wrote "The Official Preppy Handbook" 30 years ago!) "Take Ivy", and the 75th anniversary of Sperry Topsiders!

I was/am absolutely thrilled that I was able to do a review on each product, however after reading "True Prep" front to back, the earlier post just doesn't do it justice!

I pre-ordered my copy from a bookstore here in Wilmington, and picked it up just a few days ago, when it hit the shelves!

THAT felt like Christmas, I was so so excited!

After just 2 days of sitting on the beach, I finished it! There are so many different pages with such perfect information for any preppy, I just have to share some of my favorte exerpts with y'all! This is just the best book!

If you havent gotten your copy yet, do it today!

True Prep!

*Old is Preppier than new!

Lets begin with the resoloutions every Preppy should know!

1 No drinking at lunch.

2 Call Grandmother once a week.

3 Get Belgian Shoes resoled. (thinnest cats paw rubber)

4 Sign up for tennis team at the club.

5 Actually go to team practices.
6 Have gravy boat reengraved.

7 Find Animal House and return it to Netflix.

8 Send in donation for class gift this year.

9 And send in write up for class notes.

10 Finally use Scully & Scully credit-maybe Pierpoint's next wedding?

11 Drive Mother to cemetery atlest once this year.

12 Order new stationary before supply runs out.

13 Luggage tags!

14 Download phone numbers into the thingy.

15 New facebook picture?

16 Work on goals.

17 Work on topspin.

18 Get Katharine to do community service somehow

19 Clean gutters or get someone to do them.

20 Repair hinge on broken shutter. Or else!

21 Finally hire portrait artist for Whimsy. (Shes eighty-four in dog years; not much time left.)

Although no matter what the book says, WASP.

Random Fact!

*Jake Gyllenhaal went to Harvard-Westlake School, & has the cutest dog names!

Boo Radley, Puggle

Atticus Finch, German Shepard

Preppies Priorities

Private School

I agree with this! Private School is worth every penny, I loved every minute I spent in Private School! Public was...just not great where im from, but if I had lived where they were good, I would have loved that too! Neither is better than the other, they just have differences! I still have the tee shirts, and sweat shirts from my old uniform at Sacred Heart, and still wear them to walk the Loop!

Second Home

Second Homes come in handy! After Mother and Fathers seperation, they both had a house to live in, and my Mother got to keep the house we all loved the most, while Father had to move! It was a great day! However, my siblings and I could still go fishing, or spend time at the lake whenever we wanted to. During my time spent at the lake house, I learned to water ski, skeet shoot, deer hunt, fish, golf-cart, dirtbike, play tennis, and of course spend time with family. We keep the old ugly truck there, that I learned to drive stick on...which, well, I never actually learned...just tapped a tree or two! I dont go much anymore, but I know that I will always have a few acres with my name on them! That gives me a sense of security.

Travel

I have personally only travelled for a long period of time, to New York City for three months. They were the best three months of my life, and I will never ever forget that experience! True Prep puts it best, "We may travel to see relatives, take a semester away, or go to rehab" Hey, these days, anything counts as travelling!

*Always fly Coach, why waste the $ on First Class?

*Try to squeeze in some work and school between travel

*Luggage carried should be made by a manufacturer of suitcases, not, say, a fashion runway designer. Also, a luggage tag is an absolute must!

Life Lesson: "Give your friends the shirt off your back, but wear it out first!"

Celebrity Preppies that Attended Boarding School...you'll be as shocked as I was!

*LADY GAGA- Convent of the Sacred Heart

*Steve Carrell- Middlesex School

*Kim Kardashian- Buckley School, CA

* Lisa Kudrow- Taft

* Huey Lewis- Lawrenceville School

* Elizabeth Montgomery- Harvard-Westlake School

* Bill Nye- Sidwell Friends School

* Zac Posen- St. Ann's School

* Boz Scaggs- St. Mark's School of Texas

* Vin Diesel- Dwight School

* Reese Witherspoon- Harpeth Hall School

There are SO many more!

A Few Fashion Rules!

*Women over the age of fifteen may wear a simple black dress. Women over the age of twenty-one must have several in rotation

* Preppies don't perm their hair

* Sweat Suits are for sweating...aka DONT WEAR Juicy!

* THE BEST FASHION STATEMENT IS NO FASHION STATEMENT!

* You can never go wrong with a trench coat

* Learn how to tie a tie

Logology

The Lacoste Crocodile.

2.8 centimeters

French Tennis Star, Rene Lacoste made this logo what it is today.

Fred Perry

.875 inch

British Tennis Star, Fred Perry introduced his logo in the 1930's

Brooks Brothers

.875 inch

The logo is a sheep suspended by gold ribbons. This is one of the most classic brands, and it will never go out of style.

Ralph Lauren

1.25 inches

Enough said, one of the worlds largest brands.

Vineyard Vines (WHALE REP!)

1.05 inches

Shep & Ian Murray created The Little Pink Whale

Prep Careers for the New Millennium

*ANCHORWOMAN.

* Party Planner/Publicist.
* Nursery-School Assistant Teacher

* Contributing Editor, Vogue

* Divorcee

* Caterer

*Real Estate Broker

* Curator

* Tennis Pro

Sometimes, A Preppy says no.

Careers a Preppie wont be applying for.

* Research Doctor

* Computer Scientist

* CPA

* Any job requiring the question, "Any fries with that?"

* Meteorologist

Rehab

The New Boarding School!

*How true is this?!

Lastly, The Preppie Playlist!

*My Girl- The Four Tops

* Build Me Up Buttercup- The Foundations

* (Sittin on) the Dock of the Bay- Otis Redding

* Don't You Want Me Baby- The Human League

* Bad Girls- Donna Summer

* Love Rollercoaster- The Ohio Players

* Stop! In The Name Of Love- The Supremes

* Love Shack- The B-52's

* This Will Be- Natalie Cole

* Shining Star- Earth Wind & Fire

* Brick House- The Commodores

* Disco Inferno- The Trammps

* Got to Be Real- Cheryl Lynn

* Boogie Oogie Oogie- A Taste of Honey

* Good Times- Chic

* This Love- Maroon 5

I haven't even began to cover the chapters on The Country Club, or Shag Dancing...so buy the book!

Have a great Wednesday!

Its A Wonderful Life!

2010-10-18T09:53:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

I hope everyone has been doing well! I am so sorry, again, that I am so behind on posting! I love to wait until I have something worthwhile to post about, and more importantly have adequate time to post!

Life lately has been absolutely perfect! It cannot get any better than it is right now...which scares me, because life is a rollercoaster, I just hope it stays good for a while! Also, I hate saying that, but you all know i've had my ups and downs, we all do! The key is to just embrace the good, and it will always outweigh the bad. There are so many things that I could let stress me out right now, but I just wont, there are too many wonderful things to be thankful for!

My first peice of news is that, my pictures from a photoshoot I did in New York City over 3 months ago finally came! Also, I have been asked to come back for the Winter Shoot after Christmas! I am beyond excited, because everyone that I had the opportunity to work with showed so much passion toward their job, and showed me such a fabulous time in the city! LOVED them!

Also, the other day I got a call about a commercial that I sent my information in for. I went in for an audition, and was just cast in a Doritos commercial, filming here in Wilmington! I have my first wardrobe fitting today!

The better news is, this commercial is also being entered in a competition, and if chosen, it will be shown during the 2011 Superbowl! If not, it will still air as a regular commercial locally! I am so excited for this opportunity!

Last, I was recently cast in a Book Trailor. Book Trailor's are shown before movies in theatres along with previews, and the last trailor this company filmed was shown before Twilight:Eclipse, and "Alice in Wonderland"! I am cast as a New York City flapper, who was once a Southern Belle...so fun!

Also, at my current job with the Resort I work at here at the beach, I have been asked to intern in Marketing, which should be such an amazing experience! I love love love all of the managers there, so working with them will be so perfect! I will learn so much, because they are so smart! This job is by far the greatest job I have ever had! I have made so many new, wonderful friends, and am absolutely loving it! Working with the marketing side will be so much fun! I cannot wait to get to know the managers better, and learn more about a field I could possibly see myself working in one day!

Also, my neighbors here at the condo are so freakin' funny! I have started sitting down with them on a regular basis with a glass of wine, and just taking for hours! What I just found out is that the lady is the GM of another hotel here on the beach, they have an opening for a position in sales, and I interview for that on Wednesday! Of course, I havent graduated yet, but all of the interviews and such are great practice, and they can hold my resume until I do graduate! I am so excited!

I don't think I have been this content in such a long time! Don't get me wrong, im always a happy girl, but just to be so thrilled about every day because i'm always doing something I love, makes me realize how good life can be. Its so important to take advantage of every opportunity you want to, and be happy! It really is true that attitude makes all the difference!

The people I have met down here are just incredible, so nice, and so much fun! I absolutely love it! Of course, who couldnt be happy if you live at the beach!?

Every night, a group of us from work go to a spot right near my favorite Surf Shop, to have drinks, play pool, or just hang out! Its so low key, LOVE the people that work there too! Yesterday afternoon, we all went to watch football, and it was so much fun! I am apparently now a steelers fan, because I wore a black dress! Personally I like the ravens, because Michael Oher plays for them...but nobody here likes them! Im gonna need a reason for this, I didnt buy a navy dress for nothing!

This place is such a comfortable spot, because unlike beach bars, it is mainly regulars, and everybody knows everybody. Its absolutely perfect!

Lastly, I have started repping for a new company called Anchored Style! It's a fairly new company, and its absolutely adorable!

I will be posting more about that, along with product information shortly! SO excited, and you will be too! Working on give-aways, and gathering more info to share with YOU!

On another note,

Can y'all believe its almost Halloween?! What is everyone going to be?!

Personally, Halloween is one of my favorite holidays. I know some people see it as bad, but I really do like it, and I love the Horror Fest on AMC...every single Michael Myers movie is played back to back for days! Its so fun!

Now, dont judge, but I am going to be Elin Woods...
I bought the golfclub, bent it, and glued a "Tiger Beanie Babie" to the end...
I also got an Escalade rim, with a gold chain to wear around my neck...

& lastly, I have a sign that says

"Looking for Tiger"!

I know, I know, you may think thats so offensive, but honestly I love me some Elin Woods, and Tiger, although a wonderful golfer, makes me SICK!

To start off Halloween the right way, everyone from work is going to "Panic Attack" on Thursday! This haunted house is apparently the scariest one here! Its 11,000 sq. feet with everything possible that could scare a person to death! Apparently Disney puts it on, and puts half a million dollars into it, so you know its scary! I am so excited!

Yes, beach life is fabulous! I am just taking in every day, and am so thankful to God for putting these people, and this job in my life! I couldnt ask for anything more! I love it here so much, and am truly hoping an opportnity comes that will allow me to stay in Wilmington for a long time!

It isnt very often that I can wake up every day, and truly feel like I am in absolute Heaven! The beach is right beside me, I walk the loop as often as I can, I have a job & friends I absolutely love, and school is so much fun! My classes are fabulous!

Everyone down here is so happy!

I am also so excited because in just a few weeks its CORNHUSKIN time at Meredith, and of course i'm going! We have a whole group of '10 girls coming back! I am so excited to see all of my Meredith Sisters, I have missed them oh so much! I will keep you posted on that exciting event!

I hope everyone has a great Monday!

Happy 80th!

2010-10-11T06:35:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

This weekend was chaos, in the best way of course!

Did any of y'all do anything, or have any big events?!

This weekend was so special to me and my family, because it was my Grandmothers 80th birthday!

I am so so so excited for her, not only does she still look 50, but she is so sharp, and doesn't seem 80! She is my Mom's Mother, and lives just a half hour away from us. My mom is 1 of 3, and all in all, they live fairly close to each other!

We all met at my Aunt's house in Charlotte before going to lunch at a wonderful French restaurant to celebrate this special day! My Aunt always picks the best spots to eat for birthdays, or whatever holiday it may be!

My mother made the most beautiful, and tasty cake! It was a "Freccled Mocha Cake" with coffee icing, and red writing to say "Happy 80th!" It couldnt have been more perfect! It was funny though, because we only put 8 candles on the cake, but the matches kept going out before we could light them all...I think Grandmother was a bit offended...but we just kept telling her how fabulous she looks!

Another perk of the weekend was that I got to see my cousins, whom I rarely see accept for holidays! They are so much fun! I am the eldest grandchild, but Lord knows I dont act it! We all have fun, and play football, soccer, or just chase each other around the neighborhood...I LOVE seeing them!

It was a wonderful weekend, and the weather made it absolutely perfect!

I don't know about y'all, but part of me just isn't ready for Fall! Thoughts?!

Have a great Monday!

GIVEAWAY!

2010-10-06T12:20:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

I am so excited to post about a giveaway that nobody can resist!

This is a fun new initiative from Sperry Top-Sider – makers of the classic preppy boat shoe. To celebrate the launch of Lisa Birnbach’s new book True Prep, Sperry Top-Sider is hosting a contest which features the following prizes:

Grand Prize: a True Prep trip for 2. Enjoy a 3 night stay in classic Nantucket, MA, a $2,500 gift card to cover travel and meal expenses, as well as a special SeaBag gift bag packed full of island essentials!

First Prize: 3 winners will be awarded a True Prep fashion consultation with a stylist and a $200 AMEX gift card to purchase this season’s hottest styles. Also included, a pair of Sperry Top-Sider Authentic Originals, valued up to $80.

Second Prize: 25 winners will walk away in True Prep style with a new pair of Sperry Top-Sider Authentic Originals, valued up to $80.

Third Prize: 100 winners will receive a copy of the newly released True Prep by Lisa Birnbach, the 2010 update to her classic read, The Official Preppy Handbook.

Upload a picture proving that you're a True Prep and you could win a weekly prize of a pair of Sperry Top-Sider shoes and a medium Sea Bag. Perfect compliments to your preppy wardrobe.

Everyone who submits a photo is also entered into the Sperry Top-Sider True Prep Sweepstakes!

Upload your picture HERE!

Y'all, I tell you what! I am ready for this contest, we are all winners here, because of course this benifits two of the preppies most favorite things: SPERRYS AND TRUE PREP!

Please comment if you e-mail and enter! I cannot wait to hear these results! If you win, I will do a post on the blog featuring you!

Love to all of my readers, you are amazing!

Have a fabulous Wednesday!

Police Academy!

2010-09-15T06:40:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

Todays I have just got to tell y'all about a new shadow program I am doing with the Wilmington Sheriffs Department!

You may be asking why I am shadowing there, or if i've changed my major...again!

NO!

I am still Mass Communications with a focus in Broadcast Journalism, which is exactly why I am doing this!

Through my internships in newsrooms, I have gotten a lot of wonderful hands on experience interviewing law enforcement.

It can be fun, but it can also be nervewracking...and at times I felt guilty because I felt like I was getting in the way of their job!

I really want to immerse myself into the world of a Police Officer, and see what they go through each day to keep Wilmington, and themselves safe.

When making the call on whether to try to shadow the Sheriffs Office, I thought back to when I was interning with WBTV, and the dentist in my neighborhood got murdered. The Police Station in Salisbury worked so hard to make sure justice was served, but I vividly remember the day it happened!

I was walking with my mother up the street when I saw news trucks everywhere, one of them being WBTV! I rushed over to see if I could intern!

I remember the whole process, and how the news really needed information, but police officers couldnt give out certain information at the time. Then came the day when the afidavit was released...it was like Christmas! The Policemen, and the reporter I worked with got along so well, because he was so ethical and professional about the situation, and he was close with the Policemen.

I think its interesting on both sides, because media is media, and we need what we need...but there is a tactful way to attain information. WBTV was very very tactful, and I found it so interesting, and fun to be a part of the case!

I remember when they took Candice Jo Dry to jail for being an accessory during that case, and I watched with a mic, as the camera man and I chased her down as she was in cuffs walking with the policemen. We kept asking her questions, and the policemen had to keep walking, and keep their eyes forward doing a very good job.

Its just as hard for the media as it is for the policemen, but that day really stuck with me!

I really want to use this shadow program to take in all that Policemen do, and take it into account when I become a reporter. The purpose of this is to help me better understand, and know how to be respectful of the Policemens perspective on things. I want to always make friends with the Law Enforcement, because thats how it has to be. Dont step on each others toes.

Today was perfect, because I got to have this very conversation with many different officers, and get their opinions on the media, and how they like to handle it. I told them how I liked to do things too, and we really got to compromise, and talk about the best way to handle situations.

For my Social Problems class this semester, we have to pick an organization to shadow for 15+ hours (emphasis on the +, because 15 hours isnt near enough!)

I guess I could have chosen a homeless shelter, or another non-profit organization, but NO I chose the Sheriffs Office, and couldn't have made a better choice!

The first day of meeting everyone, I showed up...to the wrong police station!

I had directions to the Sheriffs Office, but of course, saw a sign that said "Police" so took a wrong turn, and ended up at the Wilmington Police Station...which is also HUGE, and so nice!

...Didn't I feel the fool!

Anyways, they kept a straight face (atleast until I got outside!) & gave me directions to the SHERIFFS Office!

When I FINALLY made it to the Sheriffs Office, it was one of the nicest Law Enforcement offices that I had ever seen!

However, as nice as the officers were, and the landscaping was...

...on my walk in, I was greeted by some fine lookin' citizens smoking cigs, and talking about "why they baby daddy done been arrested for tha 3rd time! Dey wasnt drankin on da job, jus got fired for no reason..."

...Shoot girl, maybe you should sue?!

THEN, as I was going inside, I saw a brassy blonde light up what must have been the last Misty in the pack, with her classy pink "high heel lighter", and throw the empty box right on the ground

...guess shes not going green anytime soon!

Its okay though, I understand. She's just going through a stressful time! Her boyfriend stole a car so he could buy her the drugs she wanted for her birfday...thats so nice!

She lost her boyfriend, the car, and the drugs...its been a long day, sometimes you just need a smoke...i'm not judgin'!

Anyways, on to more serious talk!

So, I got inside, and checked in! I was waiting in the waiting room, and I saw Lt. S! He took me back to his office so we could figure out what all I would get to experience through the program! Well, I knew it was going to be fun the minute I stepped in because from what I saw, he likes the Tarheels, Diet Sundrop, and has a Blackberry...okay, HELLO best internship EVER! AHH So excited!

Some of the things I will get to do will be so benificial, and exciting! Things such as shadowing officers on patrol, shadowing officers in placing inmates (which is an incredibly complicated, and tedious process! Kudos to the officers who are placed in this position, they are amazing people!), and attending classes taught by Lt. S to officer trainees! This was all exactly what I hoped that I would have the chance to experience through this program!

It all began today...

Police Academy (2010)

*Starring*

Katie Garner

Lt. S

Sheriff D

Police Academy Students (Oh, HAY! cute Officers in Training!)

Today was the first day of shadowing, and I began by meeting Lt. S and the other Officers at the Training Center around 8am! I was so excited, and I had just the best time! They are all so respected, and respectful! Also, they are all incredibly smart, and care about each person!

The Officers in Training work from 8am-5pm (sometimes longer) training to serve Wilmington! They all did such a great job! I walked into the training center around 8 with Lt. S and there were 20+ guys doing a rigourous training routine called the "Pyramid".

...I didn't hate it!

The Pyramid consists of 45 sit-ups, push-ups, jumping jacks, and other stretches to help the trainees to push themselves as if they were having to fight for their lives on the job, and pull out all they have to finish the exercise! They go from doing 45 of each, to 40, to 30, to 20, all the way down to 5!

Its tough, but they made it look easy! They all work so hard! I was so excited to get to be a part of the class today, and meet other officers who were helping teach the class! One officer worked for the S.W.A.T. Team, and another Officer was the Cheif of Police in a small town nearby...we had a great conversation about the Blueberry Festival, and how much fun it is! Also, I met the Cheif of Internal Affairs, and he was just the nicest person! Lt.S, Cheif, and I all went and had a quick breakfast, which was so cool, because I felt like one of the Officers! It was so much fun to see all that they do, but on a serious note, it was very impressive how much work these guys do each day...they are the job! 24/7!

I am so excited to fill you in on more! I go back tomorrow, and get a tour of the station! I cannot wait! This is such a great program, and I am so excited my class gives me the opportunity to be a part of it!

Have a great Wednesday!

Happy Happy!

2010-09-13T11:42:00.000-07:00

Happy Happy 75th Anniversary to
SPERRY TOPSIDER!

From The Preppy Pearl, it is my greatest pleasure to extend the happiest of birthdays to my favorite shoe, the Sperry Topsider! I cannot believe this wonderful brand has been around for 75 years!

Sperry Topsider began in 1935, when Paul Sperry was inspired by his dog, as any preppy would be, and because of this inspiration we were given Sperry Topsiders!

Dogs are really a necessity to every preppy, without dogs, Sperry Topsiders would have never made their debut!

Sperry watched eagerly as his Cocker Spaniel, Prince, ran swiftly across the ice during a cold day in Connecticut. As Sperry was watching, he took notice to his dogs incredible ability to maintain traction on the ice. Turning over Prince's paw, Sperry observed hundreds of tiny cracks and cuts going in all directions. These wave-like grooves became the inspiration for Mr. Sperry's latest patent, called Razor-Siping™, and were instrumental in maximizing the traction and performance of the Authentic Original Sperry Top-Sider first introduced in 1935. Since inventing the first boat shoe, the brand continues to share their "Passion for the Sea" with those who enjoy the good life in, on and around the ocean.

The unique design, and incredible durability of this product is impeccable, and will continue to inspire the preppy lifestyle, and the beautful people who take part in it!

Speaking for myself:

I proudly own 5 pairs of Sperry Topsiders in 5 different colors. I will continue to buy them and wear them wherever I go, because not only do they look and feel fabulous, but they last longer than any other shoe that I have ever worn!

As far as Boat Shoes are concerned, there are so many different styles, and colors!

Don't miss out of the 75th Anniversary Edition Sperry Topsiders!

The Men's 75th Anniversary Authentic Original Boat Shoe
$90

This one of a kind boat shoe comes in the timeless Off White Reverse Suede, and represents nautical style at its finest.

The Mens Winter Authentic Original Boat Shoe

$100

Brown & Tan Suede

Mens Authentic Original Suede Boat Shoe
$85

Black Suede, White Suede, tan Suede, Dark Brown Suede, Dark Green Suede, Grey Suede
Next are some options for the KIDS!

The Bluefish Boat Shoe
$50

This is the classic Boat Shoe that looks great with that pair of khakis, and a fishing rod for a day on the boat! This shoe is the timeless classic, that's also an essential peice of every young mans wardrobe.

The Pelican Rainboot

$35

This rainboot will have your kids WISHING for a rainy day, so they can sport these to school. Boots like this make puddles more fun!

The boots come in a solid Navy, which is the essential color for any Preppies wardrobe! Also, for the girls, these boots come in a Navy & Polka Dot, or Brown & Pink Plaid for just $38.

For Women, here are some of the best Boat Shoes!

The Authentic Original 2-Eye Boat Shoe

$75

NAVY NAVY NAVY!

The Navy Deerskin Boatshoe can be defined as a classic boatshoe for any woman who wants to uphold a sense of class, while fishing on the boat or walking on the beach!

Lastly, enjoy these images from some of the preppiest trends in the world right now!

True Prep-30 Years Later!

2010-09-08T08:49:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

Two books that have recently come out have caught my attention!

The first book, entitled, Take Ivy was released on August 31st.

Take Ivy was first published in Japan in 1965. Once published, this particular book set off an explosion of American-influenced "Ivy Style" fashion among many people, mainly students in the trendy Ginza shopping district of Tokyo. People embraced the "Ivy Style" and made it their own, living the preppy lifestyle.

Take Ivy is now considered a definitive document of this particular style, and rare original copies are highly sought after by “trad” devotees worldwide. The book released 8/31 is now readily avaliable in the English language!

Another new favorite," True Prep", was released on September 7th.

True Prep was written by Lisa Birnbach, the author of "The Official Preppy Handbook".

"True Prep" provides a new view on the old world that Lisa Birnbach turned into an international best-selling book thirty years ago. "True Prep" looks at how the old guard of natural-fiber-loving, dog-worshipping, G&T-soaked preppies adapts to the new order of the Internet, cell phones, rehab, political correctness, reality TV and…polar fleece.

How you feel about the increasingly serious changes of the prep lifestyle is up to you, but "True Prep" uncovers the changes, and how a preppie in today's world must adapt.

I have read "The Official Preppy Handbook", & have recently started "True Prep". I am so excited to complete both books, highlighted with all of my favorite points, and compare them.

Birnbach does a perfectly wonderful job describing the lifestyles of preppies, and portraying how one should look and act.

Here is an excerpt from the New York Times!

They do an excellent job talking about the new book.

If you have read either of these books, let me know what you think! If not, read them!

Look Cool Going Back To School!

2010-09-08T07:56:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

Here are some things from my favorite hot spot to find cute back to school, and every day accessories to complete your fabulous look!

A. Tierney has all of the cutest accessories to help you get to that "Best Dressed" Superlative you want this year!

My personal favorite product right now is the NEW Clip Sheet!

Just this Summer, A.Tierney presented:

TheClip Sheet!

Its absolutely perfect for school, work, or just to display on the kitchen counter as a to-do list!

The Clip Sheets come in 4 different designs!

-Pink & Green with Tennis Rackets

-Blue & Red with a Lobster

-Yellow & Blue with an Anchor

-Dark Pink & Dark Green with a Turtle

YOU CAN MONOGRAM THESE

...pinch me, im dreaming!

This is too cute for words!

Priced at just $16!

They are perfectly wonderful for any and everything!

Now, if y'all are anything like me (which lets hope you're not!) you just can't hold on to a ponytail holder to save your life! Well, A.Tierney has set out to eliminate that problem, & they did so in the cutest way possible!

The Band Ball!

Never be without a ponytail holder again, and it can also double as a tennis ball for all you preppies out there! :)

In total, there are 150 bands that make up the ball, and they are made in various color combinations!

What a GREAT thought!

I ordered mine today...in pink of course ;)!

Priced at just $15

(I spend $15 a week on packs of 10 trying to keep up with them!)

This one is even a brand name...HOW CUTE!

Next is a personal favorite!

Nantucket Headbands!

Girls, we just have to have our Nantucket Headbands, what would life be without them?! I dont even want to think about it...

These headbands are such classic pieces, & come in 12 different designs!

Every gal should have one...or 12!

I am ordering the "Pink Sailboat" & "Football" patterns as I write this to you...multi tasking at its finest!

They are priced at just $15, now to book the plane ticket to Nantucket!

A. Tierney Notebooks!

Going back to school, I like to look different. I like to stand out, and show my teachers that I can look cute, and the cuter I look, the smarter I feel!

With the A.Tierney Notebooks, you can be the cutest gal in class, and do your best work!

What do I always say?!

"Look your best, do your best!"

Why not add a preppie touch to your boring brown desk, and coordinate those notebooks! You will look great!

Small Notebooks are:

4x6 with 48 pgs.

Large Notebooks are:

6x8 with 48 pages

Each Notebook comes with a special tag to add your own personalization, or A. Tierney can do that for you for just $10. (I would let them too, they do a great job with monogramming!)

These Notebooks come in 4 colors!

-Hot Pink

-Lime

-Navy

-Red

They are priced at just $12!

Toddler Girls Baseball Hats!

These are so adorable!

I am a huge fan of these hats, because with the sun being as bright as it is, these hats will help protect your little ones from sunburn, and skin damage later on down the road!

These charming, and sporty hats are typically fit for children ages 2-5.

They also come in 8 precious designs to match your toddlers personality!

Priced at just $19.50.

Also, this hat can be personalized by A.Tierney for just $10!

Next are the:

Girls Belts!

These belts are absolutely adorable, and add color to any and every outfit! They are charmingly preppy, and add a touch of class to your childs wardrobe!

The belts come in 6 designs, and typically fit children ages 2-10!

Priced at just $19.50!

Check out A Tierney today, and do some back to school, or back to work shopping!

Have a great Wednesday!

You can find A.Tierney on Facebook, or Twitter!

A-List Pieces for Your Collection!

2010-09-08T07:05:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

Today I want to share with you a few of my favorite pieces from "Pieces".

"Pieces" has done such an amazing job with their custom pieces, and they produce the most wonderful things for your home!

Take a look at everything I have to show you, but dont stop there! After reading this post, please visit the website! You will not want to miss everything this company has to offer! Its just perfectly fabulous!

Also, I have got to share this amazing news with you!
The Atlantan's Sept/Oct issue features their A-List desgners and their top finds/inspirations of 2010!
I am so excited to say that "Pieces" very own Lee Kleinhelter is featured! She looks absolutely fabulous, and graces the pages headlining the peice on "Who's Who, and What's What"!

This is a huge honor, in my opinion, and even more of a reason to check out this company's website! Its obviously making its way to the top! I dont know about you, but I plan on joining them on their journey to the top, and doing some serious online shopping! SO proud!

Here are a few of the newest peices that I would love for you all to check out!

The Custom Pieces Pendant & Pouf

This Custom Pieces Oversized Pendant & Tibetan Goat Pouf is a wonderful piece.
-Dynamite drum pendant avaliable in different sizes and colors with gold clover chain. This piece is hand-made in France. It is avaliable in small, medium, and large sizes.

The Custom Pieces X Base Table

This X-Base Table is handmade. White poured resin top with smooth high gloss finish. Resin color and base can be customized to your liking. Contact Pieces to purchase this beautiful piece today!

The Custom Pieces clover Mirror

This mirror is just perfection at its best! It is a favorite of many, and is readily avaliable in the custom size of your choice! Mirror hand-forged heavy iron frame. Standard finish options are: white, black, and chocolate lacquer and french gold, warm platinum and brushed. Contact Pieces to order yours today!

You can find more information on "Pieces" through their facebook page, or on twitter!

If you have been reading my blog for a while, you know that I love this company! I value their products, because they are made to perfection, and the customers needs come first. Contact them today to order your custom pieces, and make your home a custom pieces home!

I Can't Find Jesus In His Own House!

2010-08-30T06:05:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

Okay, first off, let me start by saying that YES my freaking laptop is still broken, so I am using my brothers MAC, and buying a new laptop this Friday! WOO HOO! Its time for a new laptop anyways, the Meredith one ain't cutting it! I decided it's just not worth the hassle!

Secondly, prepare yourselves for some of the preppiest posts on new books, clothes, and brands very soon! I have some things in the works that I am very excited to share with you!

I am going to get back to blogging, so keep reading, and thank you for all of the sweet comments! Life has been so busy lately, but in the best way! I love my job, school, and my plan for the next year! I will graduate with a B.A. in Mass Communication from MEREDITH COLLEGE this upcoming Spring!!!!! I am so excited!

Lastly, what I am about to post about will most likely strike a nerve in some of you, which is TOTALLY fine, please feel free to share your thoughts & opinions!

So...yesterday I was home for the first time in what felt like FOREVER! I was so excited to go to church, and see everyone! I have missed my seat in the balcony!

Well, it was "One Service Sunday" which usually I very much enjoy, however, our minute for mission was a bit disturbing to me!

See, I was raised, and some say I was just born very conservative, and old fashioned. I would have been a perfect "50's girl"!

I will start by saying that as most of you know from reading, I am not close minded by any stretch, and I never judge! You be who you are, and you be proud! You do what you want to do, but if its wrong, only God can truly judge you! I do have morals and values, but those are mine, and nobody has to agree with them accept for me...

HOWEVER...

During the "Minute for Mission" a lady that I usualy have a lot of respect for, got up and started talking about connection. She went into how Gays and Lesbians, Muslims, Black, White, everybody should connect!

This...I agree with, but what I have a problem with is the fact that she put it the way that she did. If you are Gay or Muslim, or whatever you choose to be, and you want to come to church, the doors are open, so come on! I just hate how people feel the need to make things such an issue...why do I care, or does it even matter if somebody is gay or a muslim, thats great, but do we need to call them out, or draw attention to them, NO!
They are in God's house, and that, more so than any place should be free of judgement! ESPECIALLY when two members were in the congregation that morning that were gay. You know what, let them be, let them worship the Lord, and stop bringing attention to ways that they are different in society! Frankly, I dont care, and dont want to talk about it for an hour! We are all people, just trying to go to a TRADITIONAL church service, and it annoys me so much when people constantly bring up racism, and other topics, because maybe if the whole world would quit talking about it, people could just "be".
That was one thing I loved most about New York, people connected, but it was never because of a background. It was just because at the end of the day, in my opinion, we were all people, and I have my faith, and I am not going to make sure the world knows that! All that matters is that I know that, and I hold true to my faith in God.
I just want to live MY life based on MY beliefs, and not have to vote on things like letting gays and muslims into the church, like I said, look, the door is open, but dont expect a red carpet for coming! Everyone else comes in their Sunday best, and you can do the same, because you are the same if you are choosing to believe in God. I dont feel the need to post special attention on people because they are "different". It gets on my nerves, because the world is changing too much, be who you are and get on with life...

All I am saying, and probably in all of the wrong ways is...
-Put Baby Jesus at the FRONT of the Church during the Christmas Season
-Put the choir in matching robes so that im not focused on all of the outfits, and can just follow the music they are singing to God
-Put the choir upstairs, out of the front of the church, so that we hear their voices, and dont focus soley on people, but on God
-DO NOT talk about connecting with all different stereotypes, and put everyone into a stereotype, it gets crazy when people keep trying to defend who they are. Look, if your uncomfortable with it, get a therapist, because I will say some of my good friends are gay, but they surely do NOT flaunt it, and they are faithful too...its all about how you present yourself.
-DO NOT make a traditional Church service so UNTRADITIONAL!

I know, this may sound so rude, but for 1 hour a week, we should all be able to gather as Presbyterians, and worship God. Its not about me, its not about the choir, its not about stereotypes, its about people loving God, and worshiping God without judging each other, or anybody in the church. If its Gods house, know that you are a guest whose always welcome, but you have no control over anybody but yourself. I wish the world were a more simple place, and I wish I could be more open minded, but the fact is, I am a very conservative girl, and I just want to spend an hour talking about God, not how to connect when the whole world is on a different wavelength.

Lastly, I want to keep the traditional service traditional, there is a contemporary service for those who prefer it, but in the traditional service, it needs to stay old school.

I was just a bit taken back, because the world is changing so much, and although I respect the way some people are, and what they believe, I disagree with it. However, thats not my business, its between them and God, I just dont want to hear how we are diverse in a church, its not about diversity, its about a walk with God, and I dont understand why it always has to be made into stereotypes.

I love every type of person, but thats what makes you, you! So embrace it, but do it for you, not so eberyone else has to approve. People probably dont approve of me being a lighter shade of a blonde than I normally am, but I dont care, and I dont go around screaming I got highlights, I own who I am, and shut up about it!

Okay, im through ranting! I am so sorry if this offends anyone, as i'm sure it will...but I just had to get it off of my chest.

Have a great Monday!
I am heading back to Wilmington!

Thank You For The Sugar Doll Award

2010-07-19T11:59:00.000-07:00

I was awarded the Sugar Doll Award by The Pink Washingtoniette. I absolutely love her blog, its so cute! She has an adorable website too! You can see it here!

As a recipient of this award, the rules are to share 10 things about yourself and pass on the award on to 10 others.

1.) I love God, my beautiful family, my wonderful friends, Etiquette Books, and the South more than anything in this world!

2.) I have dreams, and that is what I surround my life around. Any dream that anyone dreams is attainable...I think you have to enjoy the whole journey, and not just strive for one thing.

3.) My favorite restaurant is a place at Wrightsville Beach called Fish House...Bridgetender comes in a close second, and they are on the same street!

4.) Audrey Hepburn and I have a lot in common through our personal lives, and her book "What Would Audrey Do?" inspires me.

5.) I love mission trips, and anything to do with teaching children about God! My mom and sister just went to Jamaica, and it looked absolutely amazing. I think mission trips have the amazing ability to change your life, and restore faith.

6.) I would rather sit on my porch at the beach and watch a lightning storm over the ocean, than go out to a bar any night of the week! I love sitting on a porch!

7.) Lilly Pulitzer is and will always be my homegirl!

8.) "If we couldn't laugh, we would all go insane" I love laughing more than anything...although occasionally I laugh at the wrong times!

9.) I think the movie Eat Pray Love, MAY just be as good as the book!

10.) I love living at the beach!

*I also love blogging, and reading all of your cute blogs each day brings a smile to my face!

I tag anybody who has not yet taken this survey!

Have a great Thursday!

Welcome Back!

2010-07-19T10:53:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

I have been on a blogging hiatus for a few weeks, my laptop broke at the beginning of the summer, and I have just not had the time to send it off! Our school computers block blogging...and facebook! AHH!

I have been making due with my roommates MAC, and of course my trusty Blackberry Storm!

This summer has been the best summer of my life, I have really grown, and accomplished a lot of my goals thus far! Basically, school sucks, and is truly not my cup of tea...AT ALL! BUT, I did make a 100% in my class this summer, and am currently finishing up the second mini session, a history class that literally makes me want to run off to Hollywood, get discovered, and show my dear parents that college was not necessary for me...none the less, I do love the school I am finishing up at in Wilmington, and have made some great friends! There is always a positive side to everything, but really my goals are becoming more and more evident to me, and I finally see what I want, and where I want to be.

I will start back to when I quit blogging last! SO much to tell all of you!

In June, I got a call from Wrightsville Beach Magazine, and I was so excited! I was just about to move to Wilmington, an they wanted me to come in and do a photoshoot as a print model! At that point, I was about to start working for Lumina News, and Wrightsville Beach Magazine is partnered with the Lumina News. None of us put that together until the day I arrived for the photo shoot!

I had my hair done at Harbour Club Day Spa in Lumina Station! They were very sweet, and I now use them to get my hair done! Everyone working was so friendly, and happy! I absolutely loved having my hair and make-up done!

I was featured in the June 2010 Issue in an article called "About Face".

You can read it here!

Just two weeks ago, I flew up to LaGuardia Airport in NEW YORK CITY! AKA, my favorite place in the world! I had been e-mailing JCrew for 6 months, and finally got the opportunity to do a go-see for modeling! I would of course work in print modeling!

As I arrived in New York City, I took a cab from LaGuardia into the city to photoshoot #1. This photoshoot was for Citizens People, and they spent 3 hours with me, and a few others who had agents and resumes, and took pictures. Basically, if a company sees my picture, I get a call, and a paycheck if it is something I would like to be a model for! This was a very exciting and promising opportunity! What a perk!

After the first photoshoot, I met up with Robin, my boss from Haute PR last Summer, and good friend of mine, as well as Janie who I was staying with! Janie is interning in SoHo for a childrens book publishing company! She is very driven, and I cannot wait to see where she is in 10 years! Robin is still CEO of Haute PR, and doing an excellent job! It was so good to be back at "work" for 2 days! We went to eat at Tao, a wonderful restaurant with the best Mango Martinis this girl has ever had! Love them both, and it was so good to see them!

Later as the trip progressed, the go-see approached! I was so very excited!

As I got to the Corporate office of JCrew, I went in, portfolio in hand, and met who I had been waiting to meet for quite some time...it was the most exciting experience I have ever had! I ended up doing a photo shoot, and taking many test shots! After it was all said and done, I signed with them, and basically this means that whenever something comes avaliable that they can use me for, I get a phone call, and fly up there and we DO WORK!

I am so so excited about this, it is all so random, but I know that this is what I want to do, and where I want to be! Life is too short to do anything but be happy! I truly believe God has a great path for everyone, and the one he has for me is very non traditional, and I will continue to work my little ass off until it gets me to the top of where and what I am supposed to be!

I love love love where I am at right now! I am going to keep pushing and climb higher! I think of JCrew as a stepping stone, and there is more to come, I will never never never give up, or stop! I enjoy the whole journey, and each thing I do, I remember to thank God, and keep pushing, after all, he didn't give me all of this energy for nothing! :)

After the go-see I took a cab over to Gold St, where my good friend S was, and met him to see his new apartment! As I got out of the cab, I left my FAVORITE black dress in the back! I could have DIED! AHHH! I have been looking in every Ann Taylor I see, and havent found a replacement, but atleast someone's day was hopefully made when they found the dress...needless to say, I was none too happy!

S also lived with me last summer, and is now a great investment banker! He lives in the financial district, and his apartment is unreal! I fell in love with it! From the roof, we had a view of the entire city, and could pinpoint each area! It was fabulous! We spent the day wandering all around the city! We went from the Financial district to midtown, Times Square, Rockafellar Center (where we invaded the LEGO STORE, and it was AMAZING!) They have EVERY color, and design you could ever imagine! However, I was taken back when I saw the "vintage people" on sale for $10.00, and, s'cuse me, those were the lego people I PLAYED WITH! YIKES! VINTAGE?!

Anyways, after the lego store, we walked to Greenwich Village, Lower West Side, Lower East Side, and then into Chinatown (where we had some wonderful chinese tea, thank you S for introducing me to a new favorite!), and then to canal St (which S had never been to, but could talk those street sellers down in price like nothing I have ever seen...he is a banker, it is his specialty!), after that, we met up with Janie, and took the Subway back to his place!

The next morning, S and I woke up at 4:45 to go see Lady Gaga at the Today Show! I didnt realize the stage was so tiny! 4 blocks were blocked off, 18,000 people were there...and yes it was a bigger crowd than "Beiber Fever" haha!

S and I stood beside the flags in the back, across from the Lego Store for the first hour, and we saw her preform "Alejandro" (excuse the spelling!), and "Bad Romance"! She was AWESOME, and freaking TINY in person! Then by 6:30 we decided to walk around and see the stage! I ended up pressed, struggling for air, against a brick wall while some of the largest bitches tried to push their way through the crowd...oh also some kid threw up due to fear of crowds...FOOL, dont come out then! I was disgusted, still though, I had to see Lady Gaga,

...or did I?!

It got to be about 8:30 when she still hadnt come out to warm up, and since we had already seen her once, we decided to head over to "Good Morning America" to see the love of my life, Sam Champion!

Well, we got there, and the show had already moved to Central Park for their concert, but I did see that if you arrive at 6:45, you can go into the studio...thats what i'll be doing next time! I would also LOVE to see Kathie Lee and Hoda!

After that, S went back home for a nap, and I headed to the agents office I had an appointment with at 10! I stopped in some stores along the way to kill time, and met a bunch of new people! Everyone I met was from down South...so cool!

The agent I met with was great, but wanted me to re-do headshots so they could make $ off of them...I just had mine done, so politely declined, and said I would come back the next time I was in the city! I love my agent here in NC, and dont need a new one just yet.

Loved the Today Show, loved Lady Gaga, and loved walking arounf NYC at the earliest hour of the morning! Great day!

The next week, I took my resume and headshot by every casting office in Wilmington, and have been getting calls about extra work with One Tree Hill. I was supposed to shoot today, but of course had class! Its okay though, im hoping for more opportunities! Its all so exciting!

On another note, on Tuesday and Wednesday, JL, and C came down to visit! We met our friend MH for dinner at Bridgetender! It was so good for all of us to get together! We had a great visit! MH is about to head out to Cali, and C is about to head to Boone...JL and I are in Wilmington, so it was good to hear everyones plans! We are all doing new and exciting things, and its very different than being in school in Raleigh...very bittersweet!

Saturday my cousins and I went out to the beach bars! There was a surf competition at the beach that weekend, and so they were packed! Especially Reddogs because thats where the after party was! I ended up at 22 North! My roommate stayed with me at the condo, and our other roommate and her boyfriend met us out! I was so happy she was in Wilmington for the weekend, it was a perfect surprise!

Everyone surprised me in the bar and started posing as models yelling congratulations...I couldnt stop laughing, so funny! I am pretty sure I pulled a muscle in my neck...After a few G&T's our poses looked more painful then pretty, but always good times! It was so fun! I absolutely loved seeing SB & JB, and all of their friends...much needed reunion!

Also, my mother and sister just left for a mission trip to Jamaica, they will be gone for a week, and I am so excited (and a little jealous of) for them!

I have gotten to know so many great people from work this summer! I started working as a hostess a few weeks ago, and I am loving it! The people are all around my age, and we all have a great time. Its a perfect summer job, and its nicer than an internship because IT PAYS! I will keep you posted on that! Its been wonderful!

Thats been my life lately, its been a crazy, wonderful few months! I move next week into my new condo, and cannot wait! I hope you have all been well! I will be catching up on blogs from here on...so looking forward to reading what you have all been doing!

Have a great Monday!

Well, Hey!

2010-05-18T09:54:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

Okay, so here are some serious updates on whats been going on in my crazy life! I cannot believe I have waited so long to post, now there is so much to share, I have no clue where to start! First off, my poor computer (piece of junk) broke! So, I am in the process of sending it off to be fixed. I luckily have T's mac to work off of while its gone! CFCC computers block blogs and facebook...WOW I might actually get work done!

My computer broke right before graduation! It was the week between when classes ended, and Class Day/Graduation were going to take place! I was having porch time, and my computer up and dies...RUDE!

So, needless to say, I have been without MY laptop for a long while, and its causing anxiety...I need it back STAT!

CLASS DAY

Class Day was, and will always be my absolute favorite tradition at Meredith College! The Lil' Sis class gets up at 4:30am, and goes to pick daisies for the Daisy Chain. They work all night and day to make it look absolutely perfect. Class Day began around 4pm. All of the Seniors lined up in our white dresses around the Amphitheater, and then processed in to sit in the middle. Our Lil Sis class proceeds to come down the stairs surrounding our section as they hold the Daisy Chain, and go into the courtyard. We all got up and made a circle around the courtyard, as our Lils watched us file in. Then, all of the seniors hold hands, and watch as our Lils make a "10" out of the daisies. After they make the 10, they file out to go sit down, and we go and rip the chain, and all take a daisy to remember that moment by! It is so beautiful because everyone is in their white dresses, and its such a fun thing to do with the sister class! We sing songs to each other, and of course there were speakers. Our class president spoke, and did a wonderful job! One of our class advisors, he's hilarious, was getting up to speak and BROKE HIS CHAIR! He just fell backwards, and the chair snapped! I was laughing, but thankfully so was he! At the end, some of us cried, and some of us laughed...overall, it is just so hard to say bye to your sisters, best friends, and even some of the teachers!

MYRTLE BEACH TRIP

I spent a week with the girls down at Myrtle Beach in my friend K's condo, and it was so nice to spend time with them after graduation, it made it a little easier to say "see ya later". I hate goodbyes, I never ever say them! It is ALWAYS "See ya later!".

COLLISION!

The fashion show that K and B put on! K had been sewing all semester long, making these beautiful dresses, and outfits for the show! I knew they were good, but when the show took place...it was absolutely perfect! She and B did a wonderful job, and it was so much fun to model in! I was the first one to go out, and I was n-n-n-nervous, but once I hit the last level, I bout kept walking in my "Lilly Like" dress right on out the front door to the car where I was gonna ride off with my new favorite outfit!

After the show, my mother, aunts, and cousins all went to eat at a Cuban restaurant right downtown! It was so good, and such a fun night for us all to be together!

Another senior girl did a Fashion Show, and I was going to model in it, but had the Jubilee Party instead! However, I did get to be in her photo shoot! Her stuff was awesome too, here are some pictures!

MINT JULIEP PARTY

Now, like I said there was a Julep Party! Do I ever miss a great social function, not if I can help it! T and I decided we wanted to go to the Mint Julep Jubilee~Kentucky Derby Celebration in Wilmington just a few weeks ago! It was held at the beautiful Poplar Grove Plantation! Mainly so we could meet people, and start doing stuff in Wilmington. Lord knows, I met the most fun people! The Junior League of Wilmington is amazing, I just sent in my application today! I've always known I wanted to join the League! My mother was a member in her hometown, and has warned me numerous times that it can get very busy, but I would just love to do more in Wilmington, and meet more people! It was such an incredible day! The Junior League of Wilmington did a perfectly wonderful job hosting the event. It was SUCH a great day! Read more about it in the Lumina Newspaper!

Lumina News Mint Julep Jubilee Story!

The same day as K's Fashion Show, I got a call from Lumina News! I sent them my resume back in March, but they have been so busy! They called and told me they would like to interview me! I was so excited! I agreed to meet with one of the editors at Port City a few hours before the Jubilee.

One of the requirements to see if I was fit to be an intern was to write a story about an event. The editor asked me if I wanted to go to a Wine Tasting, but then realized that I could do a story on the Derby Party, and it would be just as easy! I happily agreed!

When T and I got to the party, I went ahead and told the check in table that I was interning with Lumina News, and would love to get some quotes for a story! I am telling y'all, I absolutely love the Junior League! They were so sweet, and I got to meet the co-chairs of the event and talk with them for a good bit about what the event meant to them!

Afterwards, I sent K, our new friend from the Jubilee, an email, and she sent a mass email to make sure I got quotes for the story...I was so excited! 5 people, including co-chairs responded with quotes! They were the most wonderful, heartfelt quotes, and looked so great in the paper!

Another article I wrote is about Port Southern! Go check that one out while you're at it!

Lumina News Port Southern Article!

I was so excited to get published, and to write stories for such awesome events! I am looking forward to Thursday when I begin my internship with Lumina!

Speaking of Lumina, they partner with Wrightsville Beach Magazine, a monthly publication that is so much fun to read! Well, about 7 months ago, I was sending my headshot around bridal shops, newspapers, magazines, ect. letting them know I would love to do some modeling, to use in my portfolio! Ok, seriously! Prayer, and determination both work miracles!! Just last Friday, I went to the studio and did a photo shoot for Wrightsville Beach Magazine! They emailed me and asked if I would do some beauty shots for a plastic surgery ad! OF COURSE I would! It was so much fun! I got to go down in the Lumina Station to the CUTEST salon and have my hair and make-up done! I have since decided to make that the new spot where I will actually have my hair done! They were all so so so nice! I cant wait to go back soon! After I had my hair done, I went up to the studio, where we took a lot of pictures! Everyone that was there was so sweet, and im so excited because I will get to intern with them this summer! CANT WAIT!

My most exciting, and probably far fetched news is...

So, about 7 months ago while I was emailing everyone my headshots, I decided why not send them to J.Crew, and a few other places wherever I could find e-mails. Well, I know i've already posted about it, but I got in touch with J.Crew, and they offered me to come to NYC and do a "go-see"! I am supposed to go up there around May 31st! My friend Janie, who I lived with in NYC last year is living up there, so I am going to stay with her! SO excited! I doubt anything will come of it, but you just never know!

My take is, life is short so enjoy every minute of everything you do! It can be crazy, so far out of the box (ahem, JCREW), that you cant even believe its your life, but its yours. You make it as great or as awful as you want to. Life has handed me a lot that I really don't like to deal with, and I will admit, I kind of live in the clouds with these crazy dreams, and I do a lot more than I should, but if it keeps me happy, take it one day at a time! I feel like its so important to enjoy the whole journey, than just trying to reach 1 goal! Every day something should make me happy, and it should be something that I can smile about. So far, I can't complain! Never a dull moment.

Yesterday, I went to register at CFCC. I got there at 11am, and didnt leave until 7! It was insane! Everyone was really nice though, aside from some people giving me the death glare...Gwendolyn the advisor...she rude! But okay, heres what happened! So, my High School transcript was sent 2 weeks ago! Well, the guidance counselor at my High School must have been in a hurry (ill put it nicely) and sent the wrong Katie's transcript...there are 2 of us with the same first and last name!

CFCC was so so sweet, because I told my sweet mother what happened and she went to the High School. Fortunatly, they accepted a faxed transcript, because my real one arrived this morning! I really believe the nicer you are to people, the nicer you get treated! LOVE the admissions office at CFCC! I see the same women every time I am there, and its really nice because they know me and I know them! It makes it easier to get stuff done!

I got up at 6am this morning, got ready, and headed to what I thought was my 8:30am class...but NO! I walked into a class, full of people, but it wasnt my class! It was Music 111...my class starts in June! AHHH!

I am taking 2 classes this summer, and so luckily one of them starts tomorrow!

It was too funny though, and I was shocked that I didn't even care, I usually get pretty distraught when stuff like that happens.

I spent most of the morning in the library getting stuff done, and then when it came time to print stuff off, alls I had was my card. I don't carry change, so this guy gave me a quarter...YAY! I was able to get all of the busy work out of the way, print stuff out, and go on my merry way!

Tomorrow my internship with the news station starts, and I am so excited! I go in at 9, walk across the street to class, and head back over after! Its going to be a great day!

I love being at the beach, although I am really missing my MC girls, and OMG I miss my mom, sister, and brother! Luckily my mom and I talk every day, but I am about to die for her to come visit!

Here are some pictures from 10th Night!

Mint Julep Jubilee, Go See in NYC, and Fashion Show!

2010-05-03T09:15:00.000-07:00

Will post about all of this very soon! So much wonderful news, and so many great things to share with you! I am trying to survive exams...ugh, they suck! Will update y'all very soon! I hope everyone is doing great!!

SO Excited!

2010-04-19T07:06:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

I just finalized tickets with my good friend, T, to attend this event on May 1st! I am so excited! We both think it will be a great way to meet people in Wilmington, and a perfect excuse to dress up!

Is anyone going?!

I absolutely love Mint Julieps, and I love love love meeting new people!

I love attending any type of social event, and so this Mint Juliep Party will be wonderful!

Also, on May 8th, which is also my birthday, I am going to the Tanglewood Steeplechase, too! I am attending the Steeplechase with Port Southern! It is going to be a great birthday, and a great month!

May is going to be incredibly busy, but in a good way.

-May 1st Mint Juliep Party/ Make A Wish Ball

-May 8th My Birthday!

-May 17th Internship/Classes start!

SO excited!

gLee!

2010-04-14T06:17:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

So, last night, I developed a very, very unhealthy addiction! Crack? NO, Alcohol? NO, Overeating...Questionable, but NO, gLee, YES!

I am so addicted to gLee! The stuff they say is so funny!

Here's my personal favorite quote...

"I no longer carry photo id with me anywhere. Know why? Because people should know who I am"

"Did you know dolphins are just gay sharks?"

HAHA!

My roommate and I laughed so hard at this! This morning, I woke up to find a sign on my bathroom mirror with that important question written on it! Needless to say, my day got off to an excellent start! I just about choked on my toothbrush! Thanks roomie!

Sue Sylvester Quotes!

"That was the most offensive thing I've seen in 20 years of teaching — and that includes an elementary school production of Hair."

"I don't trust a man with curly hair. I can't help but picture little birds laying sulfurous eggs in there, and it disgusts me."

"I like minorities so much, I'm thinking of moving to California to become one."

"I'm gonna send this [hair] to the victims of Hurricane Katrina, so they can use it to plug the holes in their trailer."

"All I want is just one day a year when I'm not visually assaulted by uglies and fatties."

"I was at the local library where I read Cheerleading Today aloud to blind geriatrics, and I came across this little page-turner."

"Sue Sylvester does not go hunting; that kind of terminology implies the possibility of failure. Sue Sylvester goes killing."

"Sue Sylvester's calendar goes straight from March 31st to April 2nd; no one fools Sue Sylvester."

"Sue Sylvester does not go hunting; that kind of terminology implies the possibility of failure. Sue Sylvester goes killing."

Emma Pillsbury Quotes!

"Ken has a lot of flaws. He has 74 flaws as of yesterday."

"The wedding was gonna be in Hawaii but they told me I couldn't bring my own fruit."

"I'm a girl who knows her solvents, and your breath smells like rubbing alcohol."

Terri Schuester Quotes!

"I'm the new school nurse."

Will: "But you don't have any training."

"Please, Will, it's a public school."

"If I don't get enough sleep, my antidepressants won't work, then I'll go crazy and I'll kill you!"

Mercedes Jones Quotes!

"I can't be co-captain. No time. Kwanza!"

"Why do we need to go all vanilla on this song? What we need is my chocolate thunder."

"Oh, HELL to the no! Look, I'm not down with this background singin' nonsense. I'm Beyoncé, I ain't no Kelly Rowland."

Will Schuester Quotes!

"My father always said you'd become a man when you bought your first house. I'm not sure what he meant though because he burned ours down during a drunken fight with mom."

Kurt Quotes!

"I could totally sing this song with Finn, but screw him if he think he's taking the Diana Ross part from me."

Have a great Wednesday!

Tagged!!

2010-04-13T07:14:00.000-07:00

My sweet blog friend, Beaufort Belle, of The Beaufort Lookout, crowned me a socialite in the Preppy Mafia. Part of the initiation to the PM is that you have to, of course, follow the rules!

Rule #1: Click the above button and paste onto your blog/website.

Rule #2: Answer the below questions.

Rule #3: Pass onto 10 bloggers that you Love, go to their blog and let them know they've been tagged.

1. Who is your style icon?

I have a very classic, simple style. I could wear a black dress, or a Lilly every day! The only peices of jewerly I enjoy wearing are my pearls, the beautiful gold, and diamond bracelets and ring that my mother gave me when I turned 16, and 21 (they have been in the family for a long time, and I just love them!), and of course, my Meredith Onyx! I am not very trendy. Jackie O, my mother, Grace Kelly, Lilly Pulitzer, and Audrey Hepburn are all my style icons.

2. What is your favorite socialite lit book?

I add a new Etiquette Book to my collection every chance I get! I currently have 54 on the shelf that I have read and highlighted. My personal favorites are...Social Climbers by Beth Dunn, of course. Also, I love Kate Spade Manners, Style, and Occasions, The Preppy Handbook, What Would Jackie Do?, What Would Audrey Do?, The ONE Hundred, A Privilaged Life, Emily Post (any edition I can get my hands on!), G.R.I.T.S. Series, the list just goes on...

3. Favorite party theme?

Derby Party...there's nothing like a great Derby Party!

4. Go to Halloween costume?

Welfare Barbie, "Katie Cottontail"(S'cuse me, I was just trying to be Elle Woods, not a playboy bunny!), or the infamous inflatable Sumo Wrestler!

5. Extravagance you cannot live without?

My pearls, and my Meredith Onyx.

6. Living person you admire?

"All that I am, or hope to be, I owe to my angel mother."

She is such a graceful, strong, & absolutely beautiful person! I am so blessed to have such a wonderful mother!

7. Greatest Fear?

Losing someone I love.

8. Trait you deplore in yourself?

OMG, I cannot sing, but God knows I try...I try hard! I think a lot of people "deplore" that! HAHA!

9. Which talent would you most like to have?

I would just love to be able to help more people. I love to listen to others, but people don't really know that about me. I would love to have the talent of being able to help others in a better way!

10. Greatest achievement?

My career, and the steps I am taking to get there...I haven't actually achieved it yet!

So, now I crown: A New York Girl, Fashionable Leopard, Magnolia Belle, Life is Better In Heels, All I Want is Everything, Tres Posh Preppy, Queen Bee Swain, Rick Rack & Pom Poms, Pearls To Hide My Neck

The 59th Annual Stoneybrook Steeplechase!

2010-04-06T07:26:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

This past Saturday, Port Southern attended the 59th annual Stoneybrook Steeplechase, in Raeford, North Carolina

It was a perfectly wonderful time, filled with 5 horse races, and many new faces!

I woke up at 4am, got ready, and headed to High Point to meet the rest of the Port Southern team! 4 of us went, and J graciously drove. As we started out, the GPS was not in our favor! We got turned around quite a few times! It was making me laugh, because of course, I am wide awake, but it was so early, nobody wanted to be lost!

Eventually, we got on the right track, and ended up on the highway we wanted to take. Ironically, the GPS did NOT! It was more of a back road, which turned out to be a great surprise! It was absolutely beautiful the whole way there! I saw beautiful lakes, trees, and landmarks.

Now, here's the first HILARIOUS moment of the day! So, as we were driving through Southern Pines, on the last leg of the trip, we noticed this ugly teal Astrovan pulling up beside us! Oh, also, "Trish" (the I dotted with a heart!) was being hauled from behind.

Trish was an old blue, rusted boat, with a busted windshield! ...Beauty!

As the van was driving, we noticed a cop getting closer, and closer! First it was behind us, but HELLO, we didn't do anything! Then, it creeped up behind Trish, and so we could only assume they were checking plates!

Anyways, as the cop is right behind Astro, C totally called that she thought the cop was gonna pull them, and 2 seconds later, it did!

Poor van! Poor Trish!

After that, we saw the first sign for "Carolina Horse Park"!

We finally pulled into the park, and got to the race around 8:30! The boys got out, and let us girls sit in the car (because the ground was quite wet!) They went to see how we could go about unloading everything. We brought our own tent, banner, and of course, items to sell!

We wondered about the crowd that would be there, because it is a smaller town, and it turned out to be a very interesting crew!

Let me give you a visual!

Okay, so, this race was more like a fair!

It was 8:30am, and to the right of us was a food tent! They had already began to cook steak, and oh my goodness, it smelled so good! On the left side, there was a family running a tent full of tye-dyed stuff! They had tye-dyed socks, shirts, skirts, and much to my surprise, bathrobes! Haha...cuteee!

OH, there was also a Mechanical Bull, HILARIOUS!

Now across from us was a different story! There was a cute, cute tent that was selling painted picture frames! They were more high-end, and the owner had the CUTEST Lilly dress on!

However, beside her was a Kettle Corn maker, and his wife! Okay, he was crazy/hilarious!

He kept coming up to our tent, and saying the most random things!

He walked up out of nowhere after about 10 minutes, didn't say hey, just "You can punch me in the face, kick me in the gut, but you CAN'T kill my spirit!"

BAHAHA!

This continued all day, and we got a free bag of Kettle Corn!

Also, about midday, these cute guys in bowties, and madras came up to look at Port Southern. I talked to one of them for a good 20 minutes. He is going to COFC Law School, and he was beautiful! It was good to see at least 4 people that had cute bowties on!

It was a wonderful day! Here are some pictures from the day!

Tanglewood Steeplechase is next, and its on my birthday!

Life Is Just One Fun Adventure!

2010-03-25T10:09:00.001-07:00

Hey girls!

SO, here is some great news!

SO, I already knew that this summer I wanted to live in Wilmington, and intern with a news station down there.

I have been trying to intern down there for 2 years, but last summer I went to NYC instead, and it was too big of a commute during the school year when I got offered the position.

However, this summer, I got an internship with WWAY, and happily said YES!

Well, that was all planned, as was me taking some classes at UNCW.

Anyways, I went down to spend a weekend with my friends, and see my cousins that go to school/work there about 2 weeks ago!

It was so much fun, as always!

I have always loved Wrightsville Beach, ever since I was a kid, & every time I go, I love it more!

I decided about a year ago that it was where I could see myself moving once I graduate.

What I didn't know was that the job market is so tight down there, and jobs are nearly impossible to get!

YIKES!

That's why I am dying to do an internship, and get my foot in the door!

SO, its a long story, but I decided just yesterday, after meeting with UNCW, and CFCC, that I am...

GOING TO FINISH SCHOOL AT UNCW!

It really is the best option for me, and will pay off in the long run, because it will take less time!

I know, it sounds crazy, and probably is a little crazy, but in looking at the time it will take me to finish at MC, and comparing it to the time it will take me in Wilmington, the outcome is obvious!

It will take me less time to obtain the same degree from an equally great school if I go to UNCW in the Fall.

Also, I can keep networking, and working to get a job there.

Lastly, I will absolutely love being around a lot of my friends/family!

As much as I love MC, I really do not want to spend another semester here! All of my friends are graduating, and I dont care too much for Raleigh. I would be so bored!

I already have my Onyx, which is all any MC girl really needs, and am so excited to have made so many wonderful friends, and great memories! They will obviously last a lifetime!

So many classes have been cut, and I would end up spending another year and a half here...not ok, because I am ready to be out of school!

I am so ready to be out in the real world, and have a JOB doing what I love every day!

No matter where I go, my friends will always be close by, and Wilmington is just the perfect spot because i'll be living with a good friend of mine, see my cousins more, and some of my friends from MC are moving down! I am going to LOVE it!

Anyways, so this past Tuesday, I took the day off and drove to Wilmington! I met with WWAY, UNCW, and CFCC! Dont get me wrong, this is a huge leap of faith, but after a lot of prayer, and opportunities that I have found in Wilmington, I see that it will be a perfect fit for me! I am going to take classes at CFCC for the summer, and luckily they will take all of my MC credits! After that, I am transferring into UNCW for the fall to finish up!

While finishing school, I will be interning with WWAY hopefully all the way through the fall, a spot that I would love to be working with one day! I also acquired an internship with The Fishermans Post! I have also applied for a few others, so thankfully I have options!

Raleigh is a wonderful place, but its just not for me!

I cant wait to spend more time with my cousins, family, and friends who are down that way!

I feel as though the internship opportunities in Raleigh have all been done, and there is not much more I can do here. Wilmingtons station looks to be a great opportunity, with other interns that seems so much fun!

I promised I would try to stay in Raleigh, but after reaching out and finding this new opportunity, I just cant pass it up!

Its basically the same track school wise, just a little less time! I have always said I dont care where I graduate as long as I have a 4 year degree, and I can get out as fast as possible to start working in news.

That is my number one priority right now!

Everyone really is excited about this, and says its a perfect plan!

Also, 2 of my cousins are doing the same thing, so I feel confident!

I am ready to see what else this world has to offer me, and get out there and take every opportunity possible!

What do y'all think?

Be honest!

Have a great Thursday!

Spring Break BABY!

2010-03-22T08:15:00.000-07:00

Hey girls!

This past weekend, the girls and I headed down to Charleston for Fashion Week! We went to the Bridal Couture Show, and it was so amazing! There was an open bar with Bloody Mary's, Mimosas, and Azaleas! The glasses all had flowers in them, which made the drinks taste so sweet! We sat about 4 rows back from the actual stage, and got these perfect giftbags filled with cute stuff from great stores in Charleston!

Before we got into the show, we were waiting in line outside of the tent! A lady came up to me, and asked if she could take my picture for the Charleston Fashion Week Blog & Magazine!

HELL YEAH she could! I was so so so excited!

She was so nice, we even exchanged blog addresses, and I have added her to my blogroll! You can click the links at the bottom of the page to see the pictures! I was so excited!

Also, we ate at the most beautiful spots! It was so much fun! I just loved the market too! I bought 3 scarves in bright baby blue, pale yellow, and pink!

Also, I bought a Lilly from the Palm Avenue, and when I went to check out, the girl and I knew each other from the Raleigh Palm Avenue! She used to work there, but then came down to Charleston! She is living the dream, how fun!

It was so wonderful to spend Spring Break with the girls, and just have fun without a care in the world!

Here are some great pictures from the show!

Charleston Fashion Week

Street Style at the Bridal Couture Show by Diana Deaver

Again!

Our favorite designer was!..!..!

Carol Hannah Whitfield

http://www.carol-hannah.com/

Saturday, March 20, 1:40 p.m.

A finalist in CFW’s Emerging Designer Competition 2008, Carol Hannah Whitfield—an Anderson native and College of Charleston grad—also sewed her way to a finalist spot on season six of Project Runway. Having spent the last seven years making custom bridal and bridesmaid gowns, the self-taught designer is excited to debut her bridal collection at CFW. “A lot of my aesthetic is based on contrasting structure with fluid draping. I like to use fabric manipulation to create embellishment,” says Whitfield, whose pieces are carried at Maddison Row and Bella Bridesmaid.

At a Glance
Lives: New York City
Designs: Bridal & Bridesmaid Gowns, Women's Ready-to-Wear, & Accessories
Label: Carol Hannah
Favorite Designers: Oscar de la Renta, Valentino, & Phillip Lim
Listening to: She & Him, Lily Allen, Kate Nash, The Kills, & Arcade Fire

ALSO!

Hilarious story!!

So, every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday the girls and I meet in the Cate Center at the 10am hour to catch up, and hang out before our next classes.

My friend D always makes my day, because she always has a funny story to tell, or reads texts from last night, and they are so much funnier when she reads them!

Anyways, so today she told us this story.

It goes a little something like this...

A guy on her young life team (brother A) has an older brother (brother B) that has downs syndrome. He is highly functional, and lives in a group home.

Brother A got a call from Brother B's work saying they hadnt seen him in 3 days. Brother A got really concerned and kept calling Brother B to see what was going on.

The only thing Brother B would say was "I found a Troll, I cant leave the house or he will escape!"

...bahaha

Well, after 5 days of this "nonsense", brother A decided to go over to Brother B's house and see what the hell was going on...what kind of "Troll" he was hiding!

Well, he got there, and remember, it had been a whole 5 days!

Brother B opened the door and said, I cant let you in, the troll will escape

"Theres no such thing as trolls, said brother A, you are making this up!

Brother B then unbaricaded the door...hence he moved the couch and 2 chairs out of the way, and let brother A in!

...baahaha

Well, Brother A noticed the closet was barricaded too, and went to move everything...brother B got really angry and said NO the troll is in there...he will escape!

...the only thing that escaped that day was a midget Jehovah's Witness...he apparently knocked on the door to preach his good words, and Brother B genuinely thought his ass was a troll...he got locked in a closet, for 5 days!

He came out screaming, "I'm not a troll you fool...I'm a midget!

...I bet he wont be goin' door to door for quite a while!

HAHA!

*If this story offends you, im truly sorry...but I can't make this stuff up!

Chaaaarleston!

2010-03-21T16:22:00.000-07:00

Will post a huge post about a perfectly wonderful spring break in Charleston later this week!

Fashion week was amazing! I made it onto the website!

http://www.charlestonmag.com/fashionweek/photos

"Katie, Why Did You Become A Fan Of Parenthood On Facebook?!"

2010-03-11T07:35:00.000-08:00

...is exactly what my friend asked me!
Offended, yes!

The new show "Parenthood" is based off of the movie, "Parenthood".

It airs at 8pm every Tuesday night on NBC!

If you missed the premier, you can watch the episodes here!

Last night, I watched Tuesdays premier online. I have been so excited to see the show for weeks! The previews looked great, and not to mention the cast is perfect!

I cant wait for next week!

In all seriousness, the show was truly one of the best shows i've ever seen.

I LOVE LOVE LOVE Modern Family, too, but Parenthood is just as good.

They are both such fun shows to watch, not filled with drama, or sadness!

They're filled with goodness, and depict what real people act like.

Parenthood, in my opinion, is truly the best show on TV right now.

It made me laugh, smile, and even cry! It was SO good!

I feel like everyone can relate to someone in the show, and the actors all did such a great job!

Personally, one day, I hope to be like Monica Potters character! Shes such a funny mom, and I loved her outfits! Also, her husband's so cute! He was adorable! I dont know what else I have ever seen him in, but hes such a fun dad on the show!At the end when he was a pirate with his cute son, that had me in tears! SO sweet!

I can't wait to buy the first season on DVD just as soon as it comes out.

Tagged!

2010-03-10T09:29:00.000-08:00

I was tagged through an e-mail to do this! I really should be studying, but I just can't anymore! I'm brain dead...so ill do this instead!

1. Where is your cell phone?
Beside me...all day ery day!
2. Your hair?
FINALLY getting long, and as always, blonde!
Ever since 2nd grade (ugh...my tom boy years) when I had the gosh awful "Dorthy Hammel Bob", aka "social suicide hair"... I have wanted long hair! Now, its finally growing past my shoulders, and I am so excited!
3. Your mother?
Absolutely beautiful, strong, graceful, and of course, my hero! LOVE her!
4. Your father?
5. Your favorite food?
OK...get ready for this mouthfull!
I LOVE Spinach, Pineapple, Tomato, Broccoli, & Bacon Pizza!
Just try it once, and I promise, your jaw WONT drop with shock next time you hear that!
6. Your dream last night?
I dreamed I was paddling in a canoe, and it sunk...terrible!
7. Your favorite drink?
Love Love Love a Sweetini, Fiyafly, or of course a White Russian!
8. Your dream/goal?
To do as much good as I can with the time that God gives me. If I can make people happy, and everyday I wake up, try to be a better person than I was when I went to sleep, my dreams will keep coming true!
OK, so my realistic dreams are...
-I would love to join the Junior League upon graduation, and keep volunteering with Make-A-Wish, while working as a reporter/anchor in News. My goal is to become a News Anchor.
OK, here is my DREAM dream, not gonna happen, but its fun to dream about!
-I would LOVE to become a motivational speaker...or a print model for J.Crew!
In all seriousness...
I doubt i'll ever ACTUALLY become a motivational speaker, but we all have our crazy dreams!However, if my life allows, I would love to take like a 3 month long mission trip! The people you meet are amazing, and my faith always gets stronger!
Stuff like that is what life is all about!
So fun!
9. What room are you in?
The living room at the Raleigh house!
10. Your hobby?
News, Make-A-Wish, tennis, shagging to beach music, laughing until I can't breathe, and being with my family and friends as much as possible!
11. Your fear?
Cancer, bugs, and Hilary Clinton...that bitch needs a stylist!
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years?
On the news, and living in a fun spot.
13. Where were you last night?
Sleeping by 10:30, I have 3 midterms this week...ugh!
14. Something that you aren’t?
Perfect
15. Muffins?
My personal favorite are the Cunningham Muffins!
16. Wish list item?
A black BMW X5 to drive me to my pink & green beach house at Wrightville Beach!
...oh and front row Earth, Wind, & Fire tickets!
...im not sayin', im just sayin'
17. Where did you grow up?
A small, southern town in North Carolina, where Food Lion and Cheerwine were founded! Its still my favorite place to be!
18. Last thing you did?
Went with K to Goodberry's...she's sewing and im studying. Ice Cream DOES give you energy, right?! At least, that's what I tell myself! ;)
19. What are you wearing?
Green shorts, with a Pink Polo Oxford, and my Tucker Blair flip flops with a yellow needlepoint headband embroidered with pink crabs.
20. Your TV?
Always on...
21. Your pets?
Ralph-Golden Retriever
Billie Chauncey(long story)- Chow Chow (soon to be purchased!)
Cinnamon-Chow Chow (soon to be purchased!)
22. Friends?
Angels! I just love them!
23. Your life?
...could probably be a book!
24. Your mood?
Happy, but stressed!
25. Missing someone?
Yes
26. Vehicle?
I drive a Navy Blue Volvo S80 with a pink whale sticker, and pink monogram sticker!
SO close to getting the S40, but father felt the need to go bigger since I did crash my poor jeep. Slowly but surely I have fallen in love with my car!
27. Something you’re not wearing?
pearls
28. Your favorite store?
1020 Madison Avenue
29. Your favorite color?
Pink...green...pink...ugh! I love them both!
30. When was the last time you laughed?
When am I not laughing...probably 2 seconds ago!
31. Last time you cried?
Last week...ugh, so worried about the end of this semester and all it will bring!
32. Your best friend?
Person I tell any and everything to! I'm so blessed to have the friends I have!
33. One place that I go to over and over?
Meredith College...not sure how I feel about that right now!
34. One person who emails me regularly?
My agent
35. Favorite place to eat?
42nd Street Oyster Bar

I will tag anyone who hasn't done this survey!

Port Southern!

2010-03-08T17:55:00.000-08:00

Hey girls!

Here is a look at the new Port Southern Spring Line!

SO exciting!!

The boys released it last week, and there are so many new colors, and products to choose from!

Here are some of the new spring polo colors!

Here are the NEW hats!

I am ordering a pink hat very soon!

The koozies now come in several colors, here is an example of what they look like!

The croakies are a must-have for anybody that OWNS sunglasses, and the Port Southern croakies are the cutest ones out there right now!

I am getting pink, and there are several other colors for you to choose from!

Take a look at the rest of the Spring Line by visiting Port Southern's website, or their blog!

My Pearl!

2010-03-04T09:36:00.000-08:00

Hey girls!

So, big news!

Pearl Found in Fried Oyster!

Carols Oyster Pearl Story!

WHY, you ask, did I feel the need to share the stories of Mike and Carol (brady bunch!) finding a pearl in their fried oysters?

BECAUSE I FOUND ONE TOO!

AHHH!

Here's the story! (Maybe FOX News will interview me too...bahaha a girl can dream!)

So, last night, a bunch of us went to The Oxford to have dinner!

Thats one of my favorite spots, and everytime I go I order fried oysters. Halfway through, I bit down, and I swear I thought I lost a tooth!

Of course, my immediate thought was...PEARL!

I was absolutely right!

It was a pearl!

Umm, so at first, nobody believed me...naturally they all thought it was anything from an onion to a peice of the shell...WRONG!

Im so excited! I really want to keep it, have it cleaned, and either make all of my friends eat oysters at every meal so I can make earrings, or simply make a ring!

In other news, tonight is my good friends 22nd birthday! We celebrated last night, but tonight we are going to Tobacco Road! I love that spot, we just started going a few weeks ago! Its a lot of fun!

Happy birthday Kim!

Have a great Thursday!

Make-A-Wish

2010-03-03T09:55:00.000-08:00

Hey girls!

SO, its been such a long time since my last post! I am so sorry I am so spiratic lately! No worries though, I rarely pay attention in my 11 oclock class (world music, who cares) so I have lots of time to read many of your blogs, just NO time to post lately!

I have so much to catch you up on, and also a few things to vent about...read what you will!

I'll start with telling you about my new adventures with the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Raleigh!

I have wanted to be a volunteer there for over 3 years, and finally got the time, as well as the contacts I needed, and set it up! Initially, I didnt take it seriously, but after reading "The Preppy Handbook", and seeing that volunteering is such a fun, essential part of life, I decided to apply to a few places.

I looked at organizations such as Planned Parenthood (The Preppy Handbook suggested that one), and also while in NYC this summer took a tour of the Ronald McDonald House. I absolutely loved it, so I contacted the Durham office. I prayed hard about it though, because I really had my heart set on Make-A-Wish. The next week I got a call from the coordinator, and to make a long story short, I had a 4 hour training session last night. I am the happiest girl right now, because i'm officially a "Wish Granter!"

I am truly excited to embark on this new adventure! Everyone at the training last night was just wonderful, and so much fun to work with! I always get so excited when I get the chance to do things like this! It makes me feel like I am living the life I am meant to live. I know most of the time I have too much on my plate, but I just LOVE non-profit stuff! In my opinion, theres nothing better!

I guess I take after my sweet mother! She always says that when all of her children are grown (which isnt too far away!) she would love to do long mission trips! She is such a wonderful, positive influence in my life, and has truly taught me so much about being a good person, and following my heart! I know in my heart that this new experience will hopefully allow me the opportunity to better the lives of the adorable children, as well as help me to grow as a person, and have fun. Based on the people I met last night, its going to be a lot of fun! I think its so incredible that wishes like this can be granted! Each one is like a mini miracle!

We watched a video, and y'all I just have to share the sweetest thing i've ever heard!

This little girl had a very rare form of cancer. She was just 9 years old. She could have wished for anything her heart desired, but made the most beautiful wish! She wished for her parents to go on a trip after she passed, so that they could grieve, but remember her, and try to move on at the same time. She, along with MAW planned the whole trip, and they went. That story is so moving to me!

Needless to say, I cant wait to start!

Truly, Make-A-Wish came at the perfect time for me because, lately my life hasnt been as easy as I am used to. A lot has been going on, and it seems the more that goes on, the more I create ways to avoid it. Well, last week, it finally caught up with me, and I just lost it for a few hours! After trying to think of ways to make things easier, and trying to be in control, I realized that all I needed to do was pray. I prayed hard, and finally felt a sense of peace come over me. At this point, as every other time I try to take control, I realized that I am not in control. Its all in Gods hands, and I just have to have faith. Everything works out, but I cant worry about things the way I tend to! It only makes things seem quite a bit worse. I know I rarely discuss personal matters in my life, so I do apoligize if that was TMI...just had to vent!

ALSO!!

Today, I am meeting with the head of the Theatre department at school. She recommended that I minor in Theatre (she has an agent too, and is the sweetest lady!)

I need about 15 extra hours not including required courses, anyway, so why not! GOODBYE INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS THAT I WOULD NEVER USE!! Hello theatre!

I am extatic!

Also, tonight is $5 martini night at one of my favorite spots, The Oxford, so a few of my girlfriends and I are going to get drinks! I am excited! School has been keeping everyone so busy lately!

I hope y'all are doing well!

Will post more a bit later!

Until then, have a great Tuesday!!

Wintergreen Weekend!

2010-02-12T10:21:00.000-08:00

Hey girls!

So, the last few days have been a whirlwind! From auditions, to a mountain trip with the girls, it has all been great!

I had the best weekend with the girls in the mountains, minus SB because she had other v day plans (lucky girl has a bf!!), so we decided we will have to go back again soon! It was a great trip!

We got there Friday evening, and then got ready to go explore Wintergreen. We went to a place called The Edge, and met alot of new people! They were all so nice, and myfriend K knew them all, because like her, they are all locals! I kept the Fiyafly & Lemonade coming, it was wayy to much fun!

Her condo is right on the ski slope, so all night, and day we got to watch people come off the lift! Some of the outfits were absolutely priceless, and some people fell pretty hard! The little babies in the ski clothes were so cute, and the kids that were skiing were amazing, I wont lie, I was a bit jealous!

We tubed Saturday night, and that was hailarious! K & I tubed, and our tubes came unattached half way down! I was screaming bloody murder, spinning like a madwoman! It was fun! Then, JL and I tubed, and we FLEW! When D and I tubed, because I love messing with her, she was flying down backwards, and I screamed "THERES A KID BEHIND YOU, AHHHH!" She started screaming.."NOOOO" and almost jumped, but luckily didnt...I wasnt trying to have her break a leg or anything!

Sunday, the girls skiied some more, and D and I straightened up the condo! None of us wanted to leave, but unfortunatly, it was time to get back to reality! It was such a great weekend, and I cant wait to plan another one soon!

I dont know why I am already such a sap when it comes to thinking about graduation! I am so sad that we are all going seperate ways, I cant even think about it! However, I know we will all still keep in touch! I just cannot believe college is almost over, its so crazy to think we are all seniors! Where did time go!?

Here are some pictures from this weekend!

Last Friday before we left was such a big day for me! I had 2 auditions, and they both seemed to go quite well! My agency is so awesome! They send emails for projects, and lately, ive been so lucky, and extremely excited to get chosen for a few parts to audition for!! Friday morning, I went in at 10 & got the chance to audition for a "TV Host" in One Tree Hill, as well as a "nurse" in Army Wives! I am so excited to hear back! I am praying that I can keep going strong and continue to get the opportunities to audition! There were two projects auditioning this past weekend, but I wasn't able to because I was in Wintergreen! Its nice to be able to choose, but its almost like I want to do them all! I am so so so excited to see what comes up, and where I am able to go. I have to keep my faith strong, and my goals clear, and I know i'll be able to accomplish what comes my way!

As far as today, I am so busy, but its all (mostly) fun stuff. I have class from 12:30-3:30, work from 4-6, and then another class from 6 to 8...and of course its Mardi Gras! WOO HOO!

I hope y'all have a great Tuesday!

You'll Get Worn Out Just Reading This!

2010-02-10T08:05:00.000-08:00

Hey girls!

Lots and lots of news lately...

-I started my job as a producer/traffic reporter with WQDR and Triangle Traffic this week! I absolutely love it! I think its going to be a great job!
My schedule isn't bad at all!
I work usually from 6:45am-8:45am MWF, and then 4pm-6pm T/THI
Yesterday, since I am still training, I worked from 6am to 8:30am. I will admit, I was so tired at 5:15, but once I got there, and saw everyone, I was so excited to be there!
I have my own cubicle and everything!
The guy I trained with yesterday reminds me SO much of Andy from "The Office" haha! The girl I trained with last week actually went to my school, and had some of my same professors, so there have already been some great connections.
I work tomorrow and Friday, and then the next week, training is over, so I better know the ropes!
If anyone is late to work, my boss calls them and leaves the part from "Office Space" where the guy is talking to his employee about being late! It makes me want to me late, just once, so I can have that on my voice mail!
I absolutely love the work environment...there's even a Doughnut shop right by the road I work on, so I can get a bagel and a diet coke to start my day...so wonderful!
It is a blessing for me to have this opportunity, because I now know, when I get out of school, I will love working!

- Tonight, I am going to a Valentines Cocktail with a friend of mine (just a friend) and i'm so excited! However, I am an absolute mess too, because I only had 12 hours to prepare for this thing! My friend is the only person I know, and I have most of my formal dresses at home!
Now, lets be honest, y'all know that I can't pass up a cocktail, so I decided to just wear my green dress, that I wore to my schools formal (its actually my favorite dress!)

-I am going skiing with my girlfriends this weekend, and I just couldnt be more excited. My friend D and I are planning to tube...ALOT! We are of course going to drink lots of wine, and have such a great time! There are 5 of us going, and we are leaving on Friday after class. My friend, K, has a condo in Wintergreen, and I think some of her friends from Virginia will be down, too! One guy has a party every year, and so that should be fun! Im so excited to spend time with all of them, because school gets so busy, so its always fun to do stuff on weekends when everyone has time! I can't wait!

-I am STILL waiting on my records from the breast surgeon to be sent to my doctor at home. I cannot remember if I filled y'all in, but when I saw my doctor at home, she felt a lump, so I went to another doctor in Salisbury who did an ultrasound, but didn't see anything. He wrote me an order for an MRI if I still had pain 2 weeks later...well I did, but luckily, my wonderful doctor I saw the first time called me to check up and said I should see a breast surgeon. I found a great surgeon in Raleigh, and went about 3 weeks ago. She, and her nurses were just as sweet, and professional as they could be! Loved it! However, they found 2 cysts, and so finally I realized that I wasn't crazy! She wouldn't drain them, and wants me to come back in July. However, my mother and I talked, and I wanted the records sent to her doctor, because shes great as well! Since it took 2 visits to even find a cyst, one more opinion can't hurt! It has taken 2 weeks for the surgeon to mail the records, and I am still waiting for them to arrive. My mothers sweet doctor is ready though, and since she is also a family friend, she said as soon as they come in, she will look at them. I am still in a lot of pain, and trust me, I never complain...I almost hate to even post about it! To be honest though, im scared. I can feel the cyst more and more. It has been about 12 weeks of pain now, and everyday, its painful in the same area. I can't even lay on my stomach anymore. I am hoping maybe it can be drained. Who knows, I just am so happy there are so many sweet doctors out there! Hopefully the records will come today, and I can figure all of this out.

-Lastly, I sent off my headshots and resumes to all the Soap Oprah's Casting Directors yesterday! WOO HOO! It may go somewhere, it may not! In my opinion, its all in Gods hands, and I know that whatever is supposed to happen will happen! I am also sending my resume and headshot off for Army Wives extras! My agency has been so wonderful to me, I am so excited to work with them! They are helping me get more experience every day!

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

A. Tierney SAMPLE SALE!!!

2010-02-08T07:12:00.000-08:00

Hey girls!

It’s that time of year again. As you may know, once a year A. Tierney holds an incredible blowout sample sale! They need to move the old inventory out to bring in the new so the prices are insane.

They've actually already changed some prices on the website although the sale doesn’t officially start till Tuesday.

For example, our Geometric Travel Collection Toiletry bag was $38, now it’s $15. The matching jewelry tote is now $5, was $24. There are not a lot of those so they expect to sell out quickly.

And for the first time ever A. Terney is selling ribbon! I am so excited about this!!

Not all ribbon will be available online but they will put up as much as they can for you to view!

Remember the Mediterranean belts? All 4 of those ribbons will be available by the roll for $20, the cost was more than double that price.

In person you’ll find velvets, taffetas, satins, solid grosgrains and stripes grosgrains all for low low low prices.

So, please visit http://www.atierney.com/ or pay a visit to the A.Tierney office on Manhattan ’s Upper East Side!

It’s an event not to be missed.

Thanks so much!

SNOOOOOOOOW!!!!!

2010-01-30T05:56:00.000-08:00

Hey girls!

OMG! It has been snowing here all night long! I am ecstatic!!! I think as of right now, we have close to 5 inches, but the sleet is still coming down pretty hard (or maybe its just the wind blowing what has already fallen!)
Either way, this is awesome!

Part of me wishes everyone was in Raleigh, but hopefully some will still be on the ground when we all get back next week!

I cant wait to build a snowman!

First, I really want to go for a long walk! I absolutely love walking in the snow, its so much fun, and a bit more of a workout! Then, I might just have to hibernate and watch movies all day! Luckily, I brought home some good ones! Im going to watch "The Women"-My new favorite movie, "Vacancy", "Georgia Rule", "and of course as many seasons of FRIENDS & The Office as I can fit into one day!

It is the weekend, right? Relaxing is great!

I have a strong feeling that I wont be going to class on Monday, but hope we don't miss too much, because I really don't want it to cut into my spring break.

Last night, I woke up at like 3am, and expected the snow to have stopped, but NO it was still coming down so hard! I thought I was dreaming, but clearly, I WASN'T! We really haven't had snow like this in a while. I wonder how much we will end up getting over all!?

I do have to say, its nice to have to relax, i'm really not one to just sit still, but the snow is so beautiful, you almost cant help but feel like your in Winter Wonderland, and reality just doesn't exist. At night, or at least last night, the whole neighborhood was so lit up, it was like Christmas!

My mother and I went to the grocery store to stock up, but oh wait a minute, half of my hometown already did that! Let me just tell y'all, there was NO MEAT, NO BREAD, 4 cases of water, and NO FRUIT left! People were laughing, and panicking...but really, it was crazy that the store was THAT cleared out! Its funny that just a few inches of snow can make people crazy! My prayer is that we don't lose power, but if we do, oh well! I will just have to keep playing in the snow!

My sister is at The Homestead this weekend, so of course shes already been in the snow, but she called this morning to see how much we got here! Its so much fun! The roads aren't even cleared yet! I'm shocked, but its really funny to see some of the neighborhood kids making snow angels in the middle of the street, that really never happens!

I hope if you got snow today, that you enjoy it! If not, its still a Saturday, so enjoy that!

I will post pictures later!

Have a fun day!

My First Commercial!

2010-01-29T12:13:00.001-08:00

Hey yall!

I dont know if anyone knows who Jimmy Johnson, the FOX Football Analyst is, but he is also the new spokesperson for Enzyte, the male enhancement pill...haha.

Well, a few days ago, my agent sent an e-mail about being an extra and shooting a commercial & infomercial for a "male enhancement". NOW, let me first say, this is not something I would have normally considered, but since I have an agent now, and it was a paid job, I just really wanted to do it...because I have GOT to keep getting stuff on my resume.
Also, I love anything I can get my hands on that deals with acting, because it truly does make me so happy!

Well, the shoot was in Charlotte, and I, along with 15 others, got chosen. I skipped classes today, and came home last night so I could be there on time today! There were over 200 extras from all over with all kinds of agencies!

My call time was 9:30, and so I got there an hour early.,..you just never know about traffic.

Once I was inside, a girl in front of me in line started talking to me! I was so excited, because I didnt know anybody, and HELLO we had the same Joes Jeans on, so we became fast friends! She looked like she was my age, but she is actually married with 2 kids and a good bit older. It was neat, though, because she gave me great advice about acting, and is actually from Raleigh too! We had plenty of down time to sit, so we just discussed how we believe that everything happens for a reason, and timing is key! We both discussed projects we had done, and how we believe that you have to enjoy the whole journey! Like today, yes it was just an extra part, but it made my world! I was so happy the whole time I was there, because I was actually a part of a legit commercial, and I met so many wonderful, dedicated people! I believe that treasuring things like today, are just as fun as if I were to land something bigger! We were the extras in the crowd, but noticed that there were cheerleaders and football players! We wanted to be cheerleaders, but I now see, that time will come, and I want to enjoy every step I take, because I will appreciate other jobs I get so much more! I know after today, that this is something I really am glad I am pursuing! I hope I get another opportunity soon!

After I signed in, I got placed for my part. All 200+ of us were football fans, and we did, I swear, over 50 takes! It was so so so much fun! We got to cheer as Jimmy did his speaking part, and football players tackled each other! Then we had to reenact leaving the stadium over 25 times! It was awesome!

Seeing how much time, effort, and work goes into a commercial is absolutely amazing. I was so intrigued by all of the props, how realistic the football field was, and how many people it takes to really make a commercial. I thought shows, movies, and commercials were put together by just filming everything in order, but NO! The way the producers chop up the scenes, and then make them flow together is so amazing! It really is such an experience!

Even if I never make it big, its days like today that I feel important like I actually accomplished something that makes me happy! Everyone was encouraging one another! I saw so many people I KNOW will be stars!

Im so excited for one of my friends I met today, because she is meeting with an agent tomorrow based in LA. She is going to do so well, and is probably going to move there, and work! I am so excited for her!

Also, there were these two guys that sat in front of me, and they were so funny! I just loved it! Of course we all got props like popcorn, and a fake drink! The crowd in front of me was throwing popcorn, and then we all introduced ourselves! It was just so exciting!

That was my day today, I hope there are many more to come!

Have a great Friday!

A Taste of Southern Hospitality

2010-01-21T08:13:00.000-08:00

Hey y'all!

I want to share a few pictures of my favorite products from Port Southern. I am excited to become a brand ambassador for the company, along with a good friend of mine! If you haven't taken a look at their website, or their blog, you really should! I am so impressed! Both can be found on the left side of my blog, or you can visit Port Southern & The Port Southern Blog at your convenience.

The reason that I am truly taken away by this up and coming brand is simply because they exercise the value of true Southern Hospitality. The logo alone promotes Southern Hospitality, and as everyone reading this knows, I am a big believer in the South, hospitality, & good manners.

Here are some of my favorite products that Port Southern has to offer!

The Port Southern Polo

Port Southern's signature polo is one of the highest quality of its kind. A blend of old-school design and new-age technology, this 100% cotton pique will stand the test of time. The utmost in quality, a timeless design and Southern Hospitality.

My favorite part is still the fact that a portion of your payment goes to the Pineapple Fund.
- Double stitching creates lasting design- Garment-washed with softener- Two-button placket layed onto fabric- Signature pineapple logo on left chest
Colors: Black, White
Sizes: M, L, XL, XXL
$59.26 (tax included)
25% until FEB 10

Next are the classic Port Southern CROAKIES!

Port Southern Croakies(My favorite item!)

Port Southern's custom croakies will keep your sunglasses in place and remind you to spread Southern hospitality every day.
- Original patented eye wear retainer from the Croakies brand with custom imprinted Port Southern pineapple logo- 16 inches long, 3/4-inch wide- Made of neoprene rubber
Colors: Hunter Green, Navy and Royal Blue
$8 (tax included)

Have a great Monday, and go visit their website!

Southern Point

2010-01-20T07:06:00.001-08:00

Hey y'all!

I've just got to tell y'all about this classically wonderful Southern brand!

Southern Point Co.

Southern Points custom designed products are made with only the highest quality of fabrics out there to create the South's newest upscale clothing line. Each product is paid incredibly close attention to.

This ensures the highest of quality, detail, and maintaining that quintessential Southern look.

Whether you put on the Greyton Polo, Hadley Shirt, SPC Signature Tee, or even the cute set of croakies, you will see that Southern Point Co. is redesigning what clothing is, and redefining what good, Southern clothing can be.

The Founder of Southern Point Co. says,

We all have little things in our lives that lend a sense of home and place. For some, it’s a family recipe. For others, it’s a crisp newspaper and a warm cup of coffee on a Sunday morning. For me, it was a favorite shirt. I grew up wearing brand name polo shirts, and there was always a certain something in the look and feel of a polo that evoked a sense of the South for me. It’s a timeless design, and over the years, it’s come to represent a sense of tradition and style and class – particularly in the South.
After graduating from the University of Alabama, I moved to Birmingham to work in real estate. While I enjoyed my job, I kept returning to the idea of creating my ultimate, “favorite shirt.” Looking at the big name brands on the market, I felt they were all high on Southern style but lacking in a level of quality and comfort. I wanted to create a polo shirt that would stand ahead of the competition, offer higher quality, comfort, and design, while maintaining that quintessential Southern look.
At Southern Point Co., we focus on detail in both material and style and finish off each shirt with that classic polo logo. For me, the logo could only be designed after one thing – my dog, Greyton. Each Greyton Polo shirt is marked by a signature German Shorthaired Pointer logo. It’s man’s best friend representing man’s favorite shirt, and once you try our designs, you will understand that Southern Point Co. creates what a polo shirt should be.

Yall, he had me at hello!

This product is classic, and most importantly, Southern!

Here are the products you will find on the website!

First is the simple, yet preppy tee shirt!

The SPC Signature Tee

Southern Point Co. wanted to produce a tee that will not wear out quickly, and not to mention, looks great too!

These tee shirts are custom made with 100% cotton and then washed with enzymes to give it the comforting soft feel every southerner wants!
Careful!

You may want more than one, which is good, because they come in two colors, green and white!

Also, as any good preppy tee should, this tee has a front pocket!

I will most certanily be ordering one!

Price:
$ 27.00

Next is the timeless Southern classic!

The Greyton Polo

Southern Point Co. has constructed the finest polo, using only the finest materials available.

They have incorporated in their designs what a true Southern Gentleman represents!

Class,
Tradition,
&

Heritage

Their designs are absolutely timeless & are for those who seek to be a Superior Gentleman.

Which, here at the Preppy Pearl, we hope are all you Southern gentlemen!

Designed with the highest quality of Peruvian Cottons and blended with Lycra
Custom rib knit collar to ensure stability and shape.
Signature Greyton Logo on chest
Custom laser engraved buttons
Colored twill side vents, to give that dressy look when worn out.
SPC Hangtag
Colors: Bayfront, Powder, Magnolia, Shotgun Shell, Yellowhammer, & Shoreline

Price:
$ 68.00

Next is my personal favorite product,

The Hadley Shirt

Southern Point Co. Sport Shirts are for the Superior Gentleman who is seeking to exemplify the Southern lifestyle. (in my opinion, if you wear this shirt, you are doing just that!)
These shirts custom designed and are great for any occasion!
· Custom designed with 100% Cotton
· Custom colored button threads and button holes
· Laser engraved buttons
· SPC Hangtag
Sizes Small - XXL
Red Light. Blue

Price:
$ 85.00

SPC Signature Long Sleeve Tee

Navy

Price:
$ 30.00

Croakies

Price:
$ 9.00

Southern Point Co. is a new line based in Birmingham, Alabama and is quickly growing
all acorss the United States.

Southern Point has been out 5 months and the brand is currently carried in over 25 fine mens stores in 6 states as they continue to grow.

They are about have a Spring release of 10 new polo colors, totaling up to 16!!

They will offer springy colors and of course southern traditional colors.

Also to be released are more spring pattern sport shirts!

Southern Points signature logo is something that is timeless and represents southern class, southern heritage and most important southern tradition.

For more information, please visit:

Southern Point Co.

Or find this fine brand on Facebook by visiting:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Southern-Point-Co/68847517595?ref=ts

My Life Lately

2010-01-15T05:08:00.000-08:00

Hey girls!

It has been such a busy month! Christmas & New Years were wonderful! Of course, it all flew by, but I made a lot of great memories! It is always so great to spend time with my family, and see so many friends, and people I only get the chance to see once a year! This Christmas was different, because its been an interesting year, and so it was just quite different within the family, but none the less, it was fabulous!

I've greatly missed having Porch Time with my mom every night with our diet sundrops! When it was too cold, we would sit in the living room, and look out the bay window while the tree was lit. That room can always make me smile at Christmas Time! You can look out and see the whole neighborhood, its absolutely beautiful! I also really miss my brother and sister, we all have a good time, its so hard being home for a month, and then coming back to reality.
However, it is so wonderful to be back, and be with all of my MC sisters, and all of my friends! I just love it!

Project Santa was so much fun this year! Okay, so I did lose a guy in a trailer park, and I did drive (and destroy) a Chrysler T&C Minivan, annnd okay, I still want to turn back time every day and videotape the whole event! Overall, it was a huge success!

I started working on December 9th, and at 8am everyday, we all met at the church and got to work. I mainly did toy shopping, and met some wonderful children! It was truly a blessing to get to meet so many great children!

Finally, the day came! It was Christmas Eve! I got to the church around 7:00am. I was helping put together toy boxes for families, and it was a lot of fun! K and I bought tons of toys, and I was able to find tons of Transformers on sale, which was so great, because kids really wanted those!

Then, I got to take 5 children into "Santas Toy Room" and let them pick out every toy they wanted! They were so adorable, accept for the one that asked me for a gun...sorry kid, we cant win em all!

Well, lets get to the goods...around noon, I was pulled aside by one of the head honchos, and get asked to drive a van.
...yes, me, drive a van!
Apparently my grandfather and father were out of the room...because I'm a horrible driver! Regardless, I mean its for the kids, I couldn't say no, so I said yes!

The route I got was outstanding! Im still smiling about it to this day!

See, normally, theres an adult (yes I am 21, and my oldest cousin is 25, but I mean like a REAL adult) that has to go with us!
Well, not this time baby!
It was me, and my cousins C, A (who played our Santa), T, and C's friend D! Also, my little sister came too, so we pretty much had the perfect route! It was a dream come true!

Well, while A was putting on his Santa gear, pulling back all of his blond hair, about to freak out because of the heat, haha, T and I were walking out to load our boxes into our, what I thought at the time was a 20 passenger van..fully loaded, van
...only to find out that it was a Town and Country Mini Van...burgundy!
Cute, real cute!

I couldnt help but ask myself, and those around me,
...Should I commit social suicide now, or later?

It came time to pull out, and GOODNESS, I could NOT see once we all loaded into the van, because theres at least 7 toy boxes filled to the brim!
This just made me smile, because we were going to get each child what they wanted for Christmas (or die trying!)

When we went to pull out of the church parking lot...everyone was yelling profanity, or cheering me on for either almost pummeling them with my van, or just the mere fact that I was driving a van! I had my hazards on so everyone would get the hell outta my way! Hello...im on a mission!

All of the sudden, everyone was waving goodbye, and yelling HO HO HO (its a tradition when each van leaves) I had my window down, and of course never miss a chance to socialize, so started yelling "Merrrry Christmas to ya!"-in a Santa voice! Bahaha! Right as I hit the "Merrrr...CLANK! My van hit the pavement, because I totally forgot to pull out sideways, and so, well, Happy and merry, there went my front bumper! Okay, not quite, but poor Santa hit his head on the window...at the time he was trying to memorize names, and so it was like "Adam, Destiny, "DAMNIT!" I don't think the last one was a name, more of a panicked insult toward his favorite cousin! oops, or lets be honest, he was probably just really upset about the mini-van situation too, just a mild case of displaced anger!

Well, we got a little turned around, because we didn't have our GPS, so we had to whip the van around a good 3 times...each time people at the church waved...geez I guarantee no keys will be thrown my way again haha!

Well, we got to all of the houses, and the children were just absolutely precious! The parents were just hitting hard times, although some of them didn't care, most did! They were extremely sweet, and I feel like a better person having met each one of them! A was so funny as Santa, after each house he would look at the kids and say something funny like "Remember to SHARE"

The last house was really dark when I pulled in. I turned the van off, and at each door I should mention that I got elected, along with C's friend D, to go knock and say "Project Santa Ho Ho Ho!"

Well this particular address must have been written wrong, because I heard a lady inside yelling:
"BILL, I told your dead ass not to be comin round these parts again...you lazy, cheatin' SOB, ill sic Big Daddy on you!

Umm, what?! I thought I was hearin things...seeing my life flash before my eyes, trying to remember how fast I could run a mile...I stood, stunned for a second, wondering really who the heck "Big Daddy" was and how big of a rifle he had...then I yelled:
"RETREAT, GET THE HELL IN THE VAN, WERE GONNA DIIIIIE!"

Right as I get in the van, I rolled up the windows as "big daddy" ran outside. Big Daddy is a 200 pound Rottweiler! I tried to start the van but all I heard was "ERRRRRRRK", "ERRRRRRRK
HAHAHA! My vans battery died...what timing, what karma, what the heck was going on?!

Well, here comes my cousin T to the front seat thinking its because "im a girl, and have no idea what im doing...he smashed my poor innocent head against the window, and tried to start the van himself...Big Daddy still clawing the van...aka my face!
Thank goodness for the window! I was screaming, the van was shaking, and T couldn't get it to start either...OBVIOUSLY! I got brave after I said I quick prayer to live, and decided to crack the window...I yelled to the fool who let this huge monster out that "IM NOT"BILL" I IM WITH PROJECT S-S-SANTA!"
She was like,
"Oh im sorry...I didn't think Bill had gotten his license back yet!"
......I wont even comment on this!

She kept fighting with "Big Daddy" trying to get him inside, and finally she did.

Well the house we were looking for was right across the street, so I ran over with D and first asked if they had jumper cables, because our rented burgundy van died in a crazy woman's driveway!
All of the sudden, a 400 pound, shirtless man comes to the door and says "Whats the problem"
Well...now I had 2...him, & my dead van that was keeping me trapped in hell! AHHH!

My cousin then yelled,
"You idiot, we have help on the way!"
...I just felt so great! haha!
With my pride at bay, I went back to the van, locked the doors, and we made it back to the church!

It was so much fun, we will never ever forget it! I am signing up this week to become a voulenteer with Make A Wish, because non-profits, and charity work seem to make me smile, so I hope this will be a taste of something like Project Santa with the great people, and the feeling I get from being so happy all the time!

Also, 2 weeks ago, after Santa and my wonderful grandparents shelled out some Christmas Cheer, I finally got my headshots made! I used a wonderful photographer out of Chapel Hill! My agent gave me her name, and it turns out that her children work with my agency as well! It was so much fun, and I couldnt have met nicer people! Here are 2 shots that i've been using so far! Its a whole new world to me! I've been printing out the headshots at a photo studio, and then cutting and stapeling my resume to the back of the picture! Its a whole new industry, and I am loving every minute of it!

Next, I need some advice, actually, I just need to post this to get it off my chest...literally!

So, a week before I got out for Christmas Break, I noticed this pain in my right breast, and of course, because I AM a serious hypocondriac, I just thought I better not mention it, and it would go away.

Well, 3 weeks into break, the pain was in the same spot, and hadnt changed, just gotten a bit worse. I finally broke down and told my mother, and she of course made me see a doctor. I loved the doctor I saw, just your standard OB/GYN, she was Irish, and we spent like 30 minutes talkingabout her son that works in news, and she gave me lots of pointers on how to get into news haha! Gotta love her! Then, we finally got to the appointment, and she felt a lump. I could honestly kindof feel one too, so obviously its probably stress, or a cyst. She ordered me to have an ultrasound. When I got to the ultrasound, the lady promptly told me she had a sick child at home, so we had to hurry. Whatever, I just wanted it done. She said she didnt feel anything, and the ultrasound didnt show anything, but she didnt take an ultra sound of the whole thing, just one section, which I am sure is thorough enough, but I still wanted the pain to go away. The doctor said that he wanted to order me an MRI if I was still in pain in 2 weeks.

Its been 7 weeks now, and I am still in pain in the same spot. My nurse that I originally saw called me 2 days ago and she said she saw the ultrasound, but thought I should pass on the MRI and go straight to a breast surgeon at Duke, somewhere other than our little hospital.

Dont get me wrong, im not scared or anything, I just hate I even said anything! I feel so guilty, because its probably absolutely nothing, and here I am going to see a breast surgeon. To be honest, every step I have taken has been a doctors order, but still, I hate making stupid stuff a big deal!

I am making an appointment with a surgeon soon, although I guess they will just feel around as well, and maybe they can tell if its nothing. I know its probably just a stress thing, or maybe a cyst, I just hate that I feel like its turned into such an ordeal.

What do y'all think? MRI, or breast surgeon, or both?

Have a great Friday!

Port Southern, Y'all!

2010-01-13T20:55:00.000-08:00

Y’all, I have just got to tell you about a new brand! I am absolutely thrilled about this, and trust me, you will be too, just as soon as you see the website! Port Southern is the brand brother to Vineyard Vines, Tucker Blair, and Southern Proper. Port Southern is the trend of the season, and many seasons to come.

My good friend Jeremy is one of the owners, along with 3 other fine southern gentleman! He has always been the type that will accomplish whatever he sets his mind too, and Lord, he has done it again! Port Southern is going places, not just because of the upstanding quality of the product, but also because of the customer service received, and most importantly, the time and thought that has been instilled into this brand! Check it out!

I will go ahead and tell y’all, I am getting all of the men in my family croakies, and polos! Join in, and do the same! WOO HOO! You gotta love great clothing put on by the South!

Port Southern began September 1, 2008 when three friends came together with an instinctual idea and a dream. Steven Beck, Nicholas Ruden, and Zachary Moore, all from High Point, NC, kept three important ideals in mind while creating Port Southern:

1. Pride for the South and their hometown

2. A desire to better their community
3.The hope of creating an elite clothing line of high-quality men's essentials

The three Southern gentlemen developed Port Southern directly from these ideals and stand by their mission to design fine clothing and spread the Southern hospitality their home is known for.

While the company is still new, the focus is to create the highest quality polo-style shirt on the finer men's clothing market. Try the Southern Hospitality Polo today, and look for more items to join the line soon.Port Southern is made up of 4 incredible Southern Gentlemen!

Steven Beck- President and Director of Logistics
Zach Moore- Director of Finance
Nick Ruden- Director of Marketing
Jeremy Hiatt-Director of Accounting

The logo for Port Southern is none other than a Pineapple!

Why, you ask? Well…here is your answer! The pineapple is thought to have originated in the inland areas of Brazil and Paraguay. From there, it was widely transplanted and cultivated.

Christopher Columbus discovered the pineapple when he stopped in a cove off the coast of Guadalupe, and he introduced the sweet treat to the rest of his homeland.

Pineapples were found to have a yellow pulp that exploded natural sweetness, which made the fruit an item of celebrity and curiosity for royal dining. In colonial America, the pineapple was placed as the visual keystone at the dining table. Its presence expressed the ultimate level of welcome, hospitality and good cheer.

Needless to say, the South is known for its incredible hospitality, and Port Southern wants to spread Southern hospitality to people everywhere through the pineapple logo!

Another excellent aspect of this incredible brand is,“The Pineapple Fund"

If that isn’t just the cutest name for a fund you’ve ever heard, I don’t know what is!

Who wouldn’t want to give to that cause?! It’s absolutely wonderful!

Port Southern is partnered with the High Point Community Foundation to spread Southern hospitality to others in need. The Pineapple Fund allows us to give back to a community that has given us so much.

Here’s the best part, y’all!

You're a part of this important equation too.

Every time you make a purchase, a portion of your payment is added to the Pineapple Fund. You get high quality clothing and play a huge part in spreading the hospitality and care for others. Its not only the right thing to do, but of course its the Southern thing to do, as well!

If you are interested in finding out more about the Pineapple Fund and the High Point Community Foundation, go to hpcommunityfoundation.org.

Let me know what y’all think! I was really pleased with the quality and service demonstrated!

Please visit http://www.portsouthern.com/ & http://www.portsouthern.blogspot.com/ for more information on this outstanding brand!

Thank you guys, you make the South proud!

HEADSET MANIAC!

2009-12-16T05:13:00.000-08:00

Hey girls!

SO, shopping for Project Santa begins tomorrow, and needless to say I am the happiest girl alive! I countdown every year for PS to begin! Lately, I have been helping check out families, and order fruit! The Food Lion truck comes Friday, and oh my gosh I dont want it to end! I wish I could get a paying job doing something like Project Santa...it would make my life!

I freakin love shopping for all the kids, and especially being in charge, well half in charge for the day! I always go with K, she and I are always in charge of the toys.

I have been helping with toys since I was 12, but last year I had to step up, and hold more responsibility with Project Santa. Now, I really feel like a part of the whole project!

K and I sit in our designated chairs and call out the names of these sweet children, then we all fill boxes with their Christmas wishes! We unload toys, and then divide them by gender, and age group.

However, every year when we shop, I just HAVE to play little pranks on K. This year is MY year...trust me when I say, what I got for us is gold!

I bought these HUGE ugly headset walkie talkies...you know, so I can locate K when she goes astray from the task...hahaha!

I plan on constantly yelling "K, isle 5".

I think it will show how serious I take Project Santa, and make people run when they see these bad boys in their isle! WOO HOO!

HELLO PROJECT SANTA!