Happy Birthday . . . Vivien Leigh

To the divinely beautiful and incomparable Vivien Leigh . . . our very own Miss Katie Scarlett O'Hara . . . Happy, Happy Birthday. On this night, we remember you.

xxo

Shannon

Fashionista Friday . . . Mad About Plaid

If there is only one fashion rule when it comes to fall, then it would have to be: Must. Wear. Plaid. And with so many options from which to choose, adding this autumn staple to your wardrobe has never been easier. So without further ado, here are ten wonderful ways to keep it cool and cozy all season long.

1. Plaid Shirts

2. Plaid Pants

3. Plaid Scarves

4. Plaid Dresses

5. Plaid Skirts

6. Plaid Tights

7. Plaid Shoes

8. Plaid Boots

9. Plaid Purses

10. Plaid Outerwear

What is your favorite way to wear plaid?

xxo

Shannon

Five Little Things I Love About Halloween

Halloween has never been my absolute favorite of all the holidays (Christmas holds that top spot in my heart!). But now that it has come and gone for another year, I find myself missing it terribly. And all that missing has inspired me to make a list of some of the wonderful aspects I love about this most truly FUN part of the fall season.

1. It's The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown

 

This Halloween Classic is the favorite of my childhood heart. I could watch it over and over again and never tire. Simply put, Halloween just isn't Halloween without extremely large doses of Snoopy and the Gang.

2. Yummy Treats

I love getting in the kitchen and whipping up a special little something for Halloween, and Rice Krispie Treats are pretty much always on the menu. This year I took them to the next level by adding Reese's Pieces. And oh my goodness gracious was my man ever so happy! They were A-MA-ZING.

3. Popcorn Balls

In my family, popcorn balls at Halloween are a tradition. My Mama made them every year and still does. Oh, how I love them. 

4. Carving Pumpkins

Jack-O-Lanterns are the universal symbol of Halloween, and creating one with family and friends is nostalgic and fun. When it comes to dressing them up, the possibilities are endless. But a good ole carved pumpkin will never go out of style.

5. Hocus Pocus

Hocus Pocus. It is ridiculously silly and that is exactly what makes it so special. When it comes to this movie I simply Cannot. Help. Myself. I love it. I do. 

What do you love most about Halloween?

xxo, Shannon

Happy Birthday . . . Audrey Hepburn

On the 4th day of May in the year 1929, an angel was born...

 Audrey Hepburn is the epitome of elegance, quiet strength, and grace. But this is not all. It was her childlike charm and passion for living that brought sheer happiness to my soul as I watched Roman Holiday for the very first time. She captured me.

Her sojourn here on earth reads something like a fairy-tale. There was darkness, and there was light. There was gratitude, and there was giving. But in life and in style she was always herself. She was always...perfect.

Happy Birthday, Audrey. You'll always be my favorite girl.

xxo, Shannon



Happy Birthday . . . Ella Fitzgerald

I could not let this day go by without wishing The First Lady of Song, Jazz, Scat...and my favorite singer, Miss Ella Fitzgerald, a most Happy Birthday.

 

 

Ella Jane Fitzgerald was born on April 25, 1917 in Newport News, Virginia and grew up in Yonkers, New York. After overcoming humble beginnings and a few rough patches, Ella went on to become the most popular female jazz singer of all time. And in this, she gained wisdom.

Ella was sweet, sultry and timeless...

 



 



Yet she possessed a matchless voice that could imitate every instrument an orchestra had to offer. No one could scat like Ella...

 

 

When Ella Fitzgerald sings, I experience joy. She soothes my soul and makes my heart a dancer. For this, I am grateful.  

 

 

So, Happy Birthday in heaven, Miss Ella. You are loved, remembered, and without compare.

 

xxo, Shannon

Beauty Basket . . . Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain

My beauty basket has a new addition. And it has quickly become a favorite of mine. Allow me to introduce you to Revlon's Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain. 

Whilst recently perusing the shelves at my local Target for a new red lipstick or gloss, I stumbled across this wonderful product, which just happened to be available in the most perfect shade of rouge: Romantic/Romantique. I decided to take a chance and purchase it. Upon bringing it home and trying it out, I realized...the search was over. But the ultimate test was on a recent date night with my fiancé. After a long enjoyable evening of dinner that included an appetizer, main course, dessert, and for me, a chamomile tea (not to mention an abundance of little love kisses), I only reapplied once. Not so much out of necessity as much as habit. The color was still there, though not quite so intense. Yet not a trace ended up on my fork, fiancé, or teacup. I was a smitten kitten. Moisturizing and long lasting, this little beauty of a balm stain is now a staple in my beauty basket.

xxo, Shannon


Quote Du Jour . . . Inception

Each and every Quote Du Jour is compiled of words that cause us to reflect and ponder. Words that inspire. This one comes courtesy of the incredible film, Inception.

Much time has passed, but I am back. Back and devoted to writing and posting and doing what I love. And I must say, darlings, I absolutely adore these words. From this great line, we remember not only the importance of our dreams, but the importance of rising with them unafraid, allowing them and ourselves to grow in the process. It is, in essence, a call to action. So take courage. Dream, dream, dream. Press forward with hope. And whilst you are in the fearless pursuit of your fondest ones, dream some more. But always, dream...BIG. 

xxo, Shannon