Favorite Things: Patriotic

1 // 2 // 3 (top, bottom) // 4 // 5 // 6

Happy Monday.  I know many of you are already dreaming of this Friday's BBQs, pool parties, and fireworks, so today I'm happy to share my "Favorite Things" the Patriotic edition.  Whatever your plans for the 4th, you can't go wrong with...

This beautiful maxi (perfect for any day of the year)

These tailored shorts (pair with a patterned silk shirt for instant chic)
This striped bikini top and matching bottom (stripes never go out of style)
This update on the classic tote (don't forget to add your monogram)
These chic and affordable sandals (perfect for the pool or dinner)
This patriotic suit for the boys (we can't forget them)

xo,

Friday Favorites

original image via

Happy Friday!  We've been on a little vacation this week with my family.  We've had gorgeous weather during the day, bonfires in the evening, and tons of family time.  More details to come soon...

In the meantime, here are my Friday Favorites for the week:

This ad still has me cracking up.

This necklace from Lilly & Ivory is my new favorite. 

These adorable wedges are a total steal.  

This dish was super fast and super easy.  Recipe to come next week.

This top and this top could easily get me through the rest of summer.

Happy Weekend.

xo,

Introducing: Match My Monogram

Don't you just love a great monogram?  So many pieces today are transformed with the addition of a little personalization.  The only problem with monogramming a piece is that it's difficult to pass it along once a child has outgrown it, or you no longer use it or love it.  Enter: Match My Monogram.

Match My Monogram is an online marketplace that consigns unused or gently used monogrammed items.  That's right - all of those monogrammed pieces your kids have outgrown, the monogrammed bracelet that you no longer wear, the never used bag with your name on the side - now have a marketplace for re-sale.  I know plenty of people who hold onto their monogrammed pieces (especially kids clothes), simply because there isn't a good way to pass them onto others who can enjoy and use them.  With Match My Monogram, you can not only find a new home for your pieces, you can also make a little money in the process.

 Match My Monogram offers consignment options, or you can simply shop for personalized pieces by name or initial.  I did a few quick searches, and found some adorable things.

Katy, the founder, has a discerning eye and only accepts designer or brand name items.  No used, stained baby bibs will ever make it onto the site for resale.  So rest assured that when you're browsing you'll find personalized items that you can love and cherish.  

Best of all?  Match My Monogram is offering 20% off for Ann Elliott readers from now through July 26.  Just use the code: annelliott20 at checkout.  

Get browsing friends, and let me know what you find!

ALSO, don't forget to check out Annie and Natalie's Thoughts for Thursday Link-up.  It's a great way to meet other bloggers, and it's always fun to read the random tidbits bloggers share.

xo,

Mid Week Muse: Splurge, Steal, Style

splurge // steal // style: top, jeans, shoes, sunglasses, bracelet

This week's Mid Week Muse with Morgan is a touch different.  I thought it would be fun to share an actual "muse" (the splurge), and then show you a similar piece for less (the steal.)  Of course no Mid Week Muse would be complete without a styled outfit, so that's just a bonus.  (This week, the "styled shirt" is the exact same piece, just a different color due to some technical difficulties.)  But onto the good stuff...

You may recognize this "muse" as the often coveted rag and bone tank.  I've been eyeing this tank forever, and I even featured it in this Mid Week Muse post in April.  Last weekend, I stumbled upon this almost identical version of the top for substantially less.  The only difference is that there isn't a slit in the back of this top, but I actually like that more (I'm not much of one for showing off the portion of my stomach where my jeans meet my waist...)  The "steal" version of the top comes in TONS of colors, but if you want to be most true to the "splurge," stick with blue or grey.  I do happen to like the green for a fun styled look as well.  

What's your "muse" this week?  Share your muse by linking up or commenting below.  AND, as an added incentive, Morgan and I will now be choosing our favorite "muse" from the current week to feature on both of our blogs.  The "winner" will be notified the Tuesday evening before the post goes live on Wednesday.  Get sharing - we can't wait to see your muses!  While you're sharing, be sure to visit some of the other blogs and say hello as well.

How it works:

Grab the button below and link back to BOTH of the hosting blogs:

Ann Elliott and Pampers & Pearls

Link up starts on Wednesday at 6am EST

*It would also be super nice of you to visit the blog that entered the link up before you and leave a comment.  We're into creating a community here!*

Promotion:

Please help us promote our new link-up!

Use #MidWeekMuse and be sure to tag us on IG:

 @anniebryan and @pamperspearls

Share your post on Facebook and give us a shout out:

@annelliottblog and @pampersandpearls

Follow us on BlogLovin:

Ann Elliott and Pampers & Pearls

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xo,

Recipe: Watermelon Salad

Need a perfect summer side?  Look no further.  This watermelon salad is the perfect blend of flavors and textures, and it is the ultimate crowd pleaser.  Nothing says summer quite like watermelon, and this is my new favorite way to indulge.

Recipe: Watermelon Salad

Adapted from Food and Wine

Ingredients:

• 1/3 c olive oil
• 3 Tbs. fresh lemon juice
• 2 tsp. kosher salt
• 1 tsp. hot sauce
• 1/2 tsp. fresh ground pepper
• 1 (8 lb) watermelon, sliced or scooped into balls with a melon baller
• 2 c feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 c mint leaves, coarsely chopped

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and hot sauce.  Add watermelon and feta, tossing gently to coat.
2. Top with mint to serve.

Enjoy!

xo,

Thought for the week: Make Someone Happy

Just a quick thought for this Monday and my mantra for the week.  It's amazing how the tiniest effort can produce a ripple effect and multiply, and it can literally make someone's day.  Conversely, sometimes the tiniest effort (or lack thereof) can also spread substantial stress and anger.  Which effect will you choose?  With roughly the same amount of effort we have the chance to positively or negatively impact the lives of others around us.  So this week offer the mailman a water, let someone go ahead of you at the grocery checkout, compliment a co-worker,  or just smile at your neighbor.  The world really does need more happy, and spreading some "happy" just might give you a happiness boost too.

xo,

Friday

original image via

Yippee for FRIDAY!  I pinned this picture ages ago (check out all my pins here), but this week it caught my eye.  I think it's the combination of aqua and the bright pink door - it just makes you happy.  Some other things that made me happy this week?

Lunch with Morgan from Pampers & Pearls

Having a friend in town visiting from Charlotte

Doing closet consults with two of my favorite teens

(email me if you are interested in scheduling for yourself)

Ben and Jerry's ice cream dates with Josh

Finding this perfect cover up on sale

We don't have much going on this weekend, aside from getting organized for a crazy July.  I'm sure to be making lists, running errands, and hopefully whipping up a new recipe or two.  You can catch my weekend craziness (only the highlights I promise) in real time here.  

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend.  

xo,

Favorite Things: How to be a Beach Babe

1 // 2 // 3 (top, bottom) // 4 // 5 // 6 

Today's "Thought for Thursday" are all about my Favorite Things - the "How to" be a beach babe edition. 

1. Aviators are a classic.  This "shrunken" version makes the shape a little more wearable.  

2. The Sparkling Grapefruit Izze soda just might be the only thing I drink the rest of the summer.  #delish

3. Every girl should own a perfect black bikini.  This one fits the bill, and it's 30% off with code "HISUMMER"

4. There is something so chic about a wrap bracelet at the beach.  This one pops just enough without feeling contrived.

5. Want a sandal that can go from the beach to dinner and back again?  Grab this pair!

6. I love a good bargain on a beach bag.  This one is roomy, chic, and won't break the bank.

And as an added bonus: 

The perfect dress to show off your beach-y glow this summer.

A striped cover up that's adorable and functional. (And on sale!)

This multi-tasker can be used a towel, sarong, or top.

And just in case you can't make it to the beach today, spritz this and be transported.

I'm linking up with Annie and Natalie today for Thoughts for Thursday again today.  

xo,

Mid Week Muse: Summer Chic

top // pants // earrings // bracelets // clutch // lipstick // shoes

Happy Mid Week Muse!  Today I'm so excited to share one of my very favorite "muses."  

It's the perfect combination of neutrals, great accessories, and just a small pop of color on the lip.    

For most summer events, you will find me in a flow-y top, white jeans, and wedges.  Every now and then, however, a situation calls for something a little more dressed up and glamorous.  Enter this "Summer Chic" look.  I love the neutral tones in this top (surprise, surprise), and the cutout detail makes the simple shape special.  Add these black pants in the perfect relaxed fit for summer, and snag them on sale for 60% off here.  These cult favorite shoes are back in stock in multiple colors - grab them while you can.  Finish the look with great accessories - these earrings, these bangles, this clutch, and a pop of color for your lips.  

What's your "Summer Chic" style? Share your muse by linking up or commenting below.  While you're sharing, be sure to visit some of the other blogs and say hello!

How it works:

Grab the button below and link back to BOTH of the hosting blogs:

Ann Elliott and Pampers & Pearls

Link up starts on Wednesday at 6am EST

*It would also be super nice of you to visit the blog that entered the link up before you and leave a comment.  We're into creating a community here!*

Promotion:

Please help us promote our new link-up!

Use #MidWeekMuse and be sure to tag us on IG:

 @anniebryan and @pamperspearls

Share your post on Facebook and give us a shout out:

@annelliottblog and @pampersandpearls

Follow us on BlogLovin:

Ann Elliott and Pampers & Pearls

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Because Shanna Said So

Get Your Pretty On

The Pleated Poppy
Style Elixir
Walking in Memphis in High Heels
The Fashion Canvas

xo,

Recipe: Avocado and Feta Dip

In an attempt to keep from melting in the heat and humidity, we've been spending lots of time by the pool.  When it's hot and sticky outside, and all you want to do is submerge yourself in gallons of cold water, you need a quick and easy snack that won't keep you slaving away in the kitchen.  It's just a bonus that this one is a crowd pleaser too.  If you want to be really ambitious, grill some chicken, and throw this dip on top to make more of a traditional meal.  Even if you're not feeling up to grilling chicken, this one is great served with plenty of tortilla chips and an icy cold drink.  

Avocado and Feta Dip
Recipe adapted from Southern Living

Ingredients:

• 4 medium tomatoes, coarsely chopped
• 3 medium avocados, cubed
• 1 can corn, rinsed and drained
• 1 green pepper, chopped
• 1 cup loosely packed basil leaves, chopped
• 1 (8 oz) package of feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 2 Tbsp. red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortilla Chips

Directions:

1. Toss together the six five ingredients in a large bowl.  
2. Whisk together the olive oil and red wine vinegar in a small bowl. 
3. Pour oil mixture over the tomato mixture and toss gently to coat. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve with tortilla chips.

Enjoy!

xo,  

Thought for the Week: Who Will

image via

This has been my mantra of late.  I've never been much of a "self doubter," but lately I've been presented with some new ideas and opportunities that have me feeling a little less than overconfident.  I'd be lying if I said I didn't vacillate between excitement, fear, confusion, and that little speck of self-doubt.  Self doubt creeps in only occasionally (while the other feelings are a little more constant,) but it can wreak havoc in mere moments when it arrives.  

I think that's the irony of self doubt.  Excitement and confusion are relatively constant, and so I've learned to deal with them each in turn and collectively.  Self doubt, though less constant, takes that other emotion, fear, and magnifies it.  The fear of failure in each of these opportunities is real, and the means to that failure is me - my thoughts and my actions. 

On the other hand, being paralyzed by self doubt is the surest way to fail.  How often have I passed on new opportunities because I was worried about failure or a lack of perfection?  The true fun of new opportunities is not about coming to the project perfectly equipped.  For me, new projects are fun because of what I can learn and gain along the way.  

Sometimes remembering the fun of the process takes a little pep talk, a run, or a quick break from the idea or opportunity.  In the end though, it really is about pushing past that fear and believing in myself. 

Because as Marilyn so perfectly put it, if I don't, who will?

  xo,

Friday

original image via

Happy Friday!  We've got another low key weekend around here which leaves plenty of time for projects.  I'm toying with the idea of pressure washing the house?  Mowing the lawn?  Tackling our downstairs closet that still has a box or two to be unpacked?  Odds are that I will actually relax, sit by the pool, do a little work for a new project, and have a lemon ricotta pancake or two.

What's on your weekend agenda?  

Checking out Chelsea's adorable muse for the week?

Investing in the perfect distressed jean for less than $100?

Dreaming of poolside vacations and this cover up on major sale?

Checking out this website to download a new desktop background?

Being inspired by this article about one of my former law school classmates?

Rounding out your perfect summer wardrobe with this list?  

Implementing some organization into your daily routines?

Trying the "matching" trend like Emily?

xo,

Favorite Things 6.12.14 + Thoughts for Thursday

1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6

Happy Thursday!  Without further ado, here are my "thoughts" about my favorite things:

1. This dress is perfect for hot summer months.  The layering is flattering and gives it a little something extra.  

2. I love these pretty cat-eye sunglasses.  Instant chic at a great price.

3. You all know I'm a one piece girl.  The color of this one is so pretty, and it's on sale for less than $50!

4. A simple stud earring is a "must" in my wardrobe.  I love the organic look of these and the soft pink color.

5. The perfect summer sandal.  

6. A fun pillow to add a pop to your living room.

I'm linking up with Annie and Natalie today for "Thoughts for Thursday."

Stop by their blogs, link-up, and thank them for hosting!

This post contains affiliate links.  This means if you make a purchase from the links I may receive a commission from the sale.  All of the items I share on Ann Elliott are items I love and would buy (or have bought) myself.  Thank you for helping support the brands that make Ann Elliott possible.   xo,

Mid Week Muse: Shifty

dress // necklace // shoes // clutch - sold out, similar here and here // ring

Welcome to Mid Week Muse: How to wear a shift dress.  When it's 102 outside, and you have to wear something other than a bathing suit, a shift dress is the only way to go.  Especially when you have an option as cute and affordable as this blue beauty.  I'm also still on my tassel kick, and this fun option is half off for a limited time.  Throw in my new go-to shoes from Old Navy (seriously - I wear them at least twice a week), and you've got an entire outfit for less than $100.  You're welcome.  Throw on the cocktail ring and grab this clutch (or this one) to dress up the look a little more.  Either way, I think this is the perfect pulled together look to survive the heat of summer.  

How do you stay cool but pulled together in the summer?  Share your muse by linking up or commenting below.  While you're sharing, be sure to visit some of the other blogs and say hello!

How it works:

Grab the button below and link back to BOTH of the hosting blogs:

Ann Elliott and Pampers & Pearls

Link up starts on Wednesday at 6am EST

*It would also be super nice of you to visit the blog that entered the link up before you and leave a comment.  We're into creating a community here!*

Promotion:

Please help us promote our new link-up!

Use #MidWeekMuse and be sure to tag us on IG:

 @anniebryan and @pamperspearls

Share your post on Facebook and give us a shout out:

@annelliottblog and @pampersandpearls

Follow us on BlogLovin:

Ann Elliott and Pampers & Pearls

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Also linking up with:

Because Shanna Said So

Get Your Pretty On

The Pleated Poppy
Style Elixir
Walking in Memphis in High Heels
The Fashion Canvas

This post contains affiliate links.  This means if you make a purchase from the links I may receive a commission from the sale.  All of the items I share on Ann Elliott are items I love and would buy (or have bought) myself.  Thank you for helping support the brands that make Ann Elliott possible.  

xo,

Recipe: Raw Kale Salad

I'm not even sure this should qualify as a recipe, but this was new to me so I thought I'd share.  Macerating fruit isn't ground breaking (ie: combining a little sugar with strawberries to bring out the juices), but did you know you can macerate vegetables too?  Substitute lemon juice and a little salt for the sugar, and you're set.  I decided to try it with this kale salad, and it was delicious - the raw (and what I think of as healthy) flavor of kale was perfectly complemented with the zing of a lemon and some salt.  Give it a try next time you're looking for an easy, quick way to serve up some vegetables.

Raw Kale Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch kale
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp. salt

Directions:

1. Wash and dry kale.  Remove kale leaves from stalk.
2. Combine lemon juice and salt in a serving bowl.  Add kale.
3. Gently "massage" kale, coating the leaves with the lemon juice mixture.  Massage for 1-2 minutes, then let rest for 15 minutes before serving.

Enjoy!

xo,

Father's Day Gift Guide

Can you believe that Father's Day is right around the corner?  I think time is purposely FLYING by at warp speed.  Instead of a tie this year, try one of these picks below.  From the Classic Dad to the New Dad in need of a little extra caffeine for those sleepless nights, here are some creative and out of the (tie) box ideas...

:: Classic Dad::

For the Dad who like to keep things traditional, a little preppy, and stylish.  Try a gingham shirt (in a variety of colors), a Timex watch with a leather strap (what could be more classic?), or a new spin on a traditional loafer. 

1 // 2 // 3

:: Caffeinated Pop ::

Whether he's a new father with responsibility for late-night feedings, or a seasoned veteran who loves his coffee, grab him one (or three) of these options.  A french press is a welcome change from the instant coffee maker, a coffee of the month club delivery honors him all year long, and this cheeky mug is just too good to resist.  

1 // 2 // 3

 :: Good Times Guy ::

If Dad likes to enjoy a cocktail or two, try something from this set.  These rocking tumblers make a fun party trick, this customizable whiskey barrel lets the aficionado make his own batch of oak barrel whiskey, and this Craft Cocktail book makes entertaining a breeze.  

1 // 2 // 3

:: Road Warrior ::

Maybe Dad has to travel often for work?  Maybe Dad just likes to travel for fun?  Either way, these gifts will come in handy.  Grab a deluxe travel kit for him to make airport security (and staying groomed on the road) a breeze.  Dad would also love these beechwood earphones - perfect for listening to podcasts on his morning commute or watching movies on the plane.  Finally, the 36 Hour Book from the New York Times is the perfect gift for the traveling Pop - full of travel inspiration, the book details how a visitor can maximize just 36 hours in any number of cities.  

1 // 2 // 3

One final foolproof gift?  Gift cards.  Grab a card wallet (I like this one, this one, and this one), and fill it with gift cards Dad will love.  Keep the gift cards personal where you can.  I especially like the idea of restaurant gift cards to go out to lunch or dinner or a gift card to his favorite store.   

Have you already done your Father's Day shopping?  How will you honor Dad this year?

This post contains affiliate links.  This means if you make a purchase from the links I may receive a commission from the sale.  All of the items I share on Ann Elliott are items I love and would buy (or have bought) myself.  Thank you for helping support the brands that make Ann Elliott possible.  

xo,

Favorite Things: 6.6.14

1 // 2 // 3 (40% off) // 4 // 5 (25% code: SUMMERTIME) // 6 (on clearance!)

Just stopping in to share a few of my favorite things for your weekend shopping.

I can't get enough of this vaseline rosy lip balm.  It turns your lips the perfect, subtle shade of rosy pink.  It's perfect for low-maintenance summer looks.  

I'm also loving the line of Kate Spade books - they are the perfect little books for a small side table, a graduation gift, or a hostess gift.  There are three on sale now - Style, Manners, and Occasions.  

Now that we are officially into the heat of summer, I'm all about easy, easy looks.  I love this romper for casual weekends - cute, but easy to beat the heat.  (40% off right now!)  I'm also loving the stripes on these chic wedges.  Hurry though, they are on clearance now for less than $25.  

Lastly, you know I can't resist some gorgeous statement jewelry, and I'm loving these earrings (on sale with code: SUMMERTIME), and this beautiful ring.  Pair them with neutral outfits (my favorite kind), and you've got my ideal summer look - understated with just a pop of fun.  

Happy Friday!

This post contains affiliate links.  This means if you make a purchase from the links I may receive a commission from the sale.  All of the items I share on Ann Elliott are items I love and would buy (or have bought) myself.  Thank you for helping support the brands that make Ann Elliott possible.  

xo,

Three Things for Thursday

Happy Thursday!  I don't know about you, but I think Thursday has a much better ring to it than Wednesday.  

Something about that weekend must be calling my name.

Today I'm linking up with Annie and Natalie for their first ever "Thoughts for Thursday" link-up. Both of them have adorable blogs, amazing style, and the cutest little ones. Head on over to their blogs, tell them hello, and consider linking up next week. In the meantime, here are my "Thought for Thursday" in the form of installment no. 2 of "Three Things" about me:

original image via pinterest

:: I am terrified of flying ::

I know it's an irrational fear, but it's one I can't seem to shake.  Ironically, I love to travel, but when I think about booking a flight or being mid-flight, I get anxious...totally, completely, irrationally anxious.  My fear comes from the fact that I am giving up control and I feel claustrophobic.  Unfortunately, like most things in life I've found the best way to deal with the fear is to confront it head on - as in fly as often as possible and take DEEEEEEP breaths.  As someone once put it to me, "You may be the captain of the scared to fly club, but the best way to conquer it is to never let the fear stop you from going...anywhere."  I'm trying to take this advice to heart, but I'd be lying if I said the fear has given me pause before booking just about any trip that involves flying.  We have a few flights coming up, so here's to facing fears head on...or maybe with some medication?!

image via

:: I have a major sweet tooth ::

MAJOR might be an understatement.  I've never met a cake, bread, cookie dough, ice cream, or pastry I didn't like.  About 75% of my motivation to run every day comes from my sweet tooth.  I'm one of those who would much rather exercise daily than diet.  I've always wondered about those types who can do both and still be nice to people.  

print available here

:: I dream about living in Paris ::

  Maybe it's the macarons or gelatto or fresh baguette on every corner (see above), but Paris is the city I can't seem to shake.  I love exploring the different neighborhoods, sitting and people watching at a cafe, or visiting my absolute favorite - La Sainte Chappelle.  It also doesn't hurt that pictures of Paris (the people, the buildings, or the outdoor spaces) are hardly ever bad.  I'm one of those who can choose a vacation based entirely on a picture and the emotion it evokes.  Though I don't know that living in Paris is in the cards, I'm thinking I might need to face my fear of flying for a visit sometime soon.  

xo,

Mid Week Muse: Ice Blue

top // shorts // shoes // bracelets // glasses

Welcome to this week's Mid Week Muse.  I've been on a silver kick lately (after a LOOOONG and continuing run with gold), and I'm excited to add a little bit of the icy cool color back into the rotation.  I love pale, ice blue with silver, but this top would go just as well with gold or bright colored accents.  And can we talk about these shorts?  I'm drooling over the pattern and silver color, and they come in a pant length as well.  I just love a good animal print (or in this case "dragon" print.)  Finally, these bracelets are on final sale, and they add the perfect amount of whimsy and fun to an otherwise more tailored outfit.  What do you think?  Do you like silver, or do you stick to warmer tones in your accessories?  What about the shorts?  Are they too buttoned up, or does the print make it work?  

What's your muse this week?  Link up below or leave me a comment and let me know!  While you're sharing, be sure to visit some other blogs in the link-up, and say hello as well!

How it works:

Grab the button below and link back to both of our blogs:

Ann Elliott and Pampers & Pearls

Link up starts on Wednesday at 6am EST

*It would also be super nice of you to visit the blog that entered the link up before you and leave a comment.  We're into creating a community here!*

Promotion:

Please help us promote our new link-up!

Use #MidWeekMuse and be sure to tag us on IG:

 @anniebryan and @pamperspearls

Share your post on Facebook and give us a shout out:

@annelliottblog and @pampersandpearls

Follow us on BlogLovin:

Ann Elliott and Pampers & Pearls

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<a href="http://annelliott.blogspot.com/" title="Ann Elliott"><img src="http://i745.photobucket.com/albums/xx100/morganteichert/MidWeekMuse_zps9969ae42.jpg" alt="Ann Elliott" style="border:none;" /></a></div>

Also linking up with:
Because Shanna Said So

Get Your Pretty On

The Pleated Poppy
Style Elixir
Walking in Memphis in High Heels
The Fashion Canvas

xo,

Recipe: Lemon Blueberry Bread

A recent delivery from Black Hog Farm included free blueberries.  I'm not usually a huge blueberry fan (outside of muffins that is,) but these blueberries were delicious.  So delicious, that when the batch was gone, I started craving them in everything!  I promptly placed my next order from Black Hog Farm, and you better believe I included TWO orders of blueberries - one to eat plain, and one for a batch of lemon blueberry bread.  I'm not sure exactly where or when I decided lemon blueberry bread would be the fate of the second batch of blueberries, but I'm sure glad it was.  This bread was the perfect treat after a morning run, or it has just enough lemon-y zing to wake you up as a mid-afternoon snack.  It's not too sweet and not too tart...in fact it's just right.

Lemon Blueberry Bread

Recipe adapted from Taste of Home

Ingredients:

For Bread:

• 1/3 c. butter, melted
• 1 c. sugar
• 3 Tbs. lemon juice
• 2 eggs
• 1 1/2 c. flour (I used Cup for Cup Gluten Free)
• 1 tsp. baking powder
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/2 c. milk (I used heavy cream  - not the healthiest, but I needed to use it!)
• 1 c. fresh blueberries (You could use frozen as well)
• 2 Tbs. grated lemon peel

For Glaze:

• 2 Tbs. lemon juice
• 1/4 c. sugar (I used powdered sugar and increased to 1/2 c.)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350.
2. In a large bowl beat butter, sugar, lemon juice and eggs.  Mix flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl.  Combine flour mixture with egg mixture gradually, alternating with milk, stirring well after each addition.
3. Transfer batter to a greased bread pan.  Bake at 350 for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.  Cool for 10 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Prepare glaze by combining lemon juice and sugar.  Drizzle over warm bread.

I especially enjoyed this bread toasted with salted, whipped butter.  My mouth's watering just thinking about it.  

Enjoy!

Blueberries were definitely my "muse" for this recipe.  Check back tomorrow for my fashion "muse" for the week.  Even better? Link up with Team Muse (Ann Elliott and Pampers & Pearls)  tomorrow to share your muse for the week. 

xo,

Thought for the Week: Stop and Smell the Roses

original image via

This weekend we slowed waaay down...a little unintentionally.  On Saturday, we joined friends for brunch that stretched through the lunch hour and into early afternoon.  After brunch, we stretched out on the couch to watch the French Open and Andy Murray's marathon match.  Church on Sunday was followed by curling up with our books and reading...again for hours.  All this from the girl who feels like a day is wasted if she hasn't "accomplished" something.  

It's funny how things work though.  Every time I would rally for an outside chore the rain would start to spit.  Inside chores were put on hold by a variety of circumstances as well.  This normally would have left me feeling anxious and frustrated... oh so frustrated.  Not this weekend though.  Instead, as I sat there with my book on Sunday, I looked over at Josh and told him how thankful I was to just be resting and relaxing.  It.was.wonderful.  

And you know what?  It's still wonderful today.  As I sit here with my laundry piled high, my closets unorganized, and the grass unmowed, I'm still thankful for a weekend of resting.  Life is short and there will always be another chore to be done, more laundry to be folded, or a pile of dishes to be washed.  There will always be another task to organize or a meal to prepare, but this moment and this day are fleeting.  Taking a moment to stop, relax, and enjoy can be difficult, but it is vital.  

As I head back into the daily routine this week, my goal is to slow down a little and enjoy the moments (OK, maybe days) as they come.  I'll prepare and plan and "achieve" when and where I can, but I'll also give myself permission not to.  

Instead, I just might stop and smell the roses.

xo,