So this is happening...

Let's see I haven't posted in quite some time, and there is reason for that.  At the end of June we went on a family trip to Hawaii (which was incredibly amazing by the way!).  A little later we found out some big news, and we let our dog, Gus, share the news with our family.  Here's what he had to say:

 

We are expecting a little baby in March 2015!!!  We are thrilled and cannot wait.  I would say that my pregnancy this far has not been super easy as I was quite sick.  I'm 18 weeks now, and I think I'm past the worst of it, or I'm hopeful that I am anyway!  I'm looking forward to getting back into the groove of things and sharing more with you guys, and honestly I'm just looking forward to catching up on life in general.  I feel like I've spent way too many days in bed staring at the four walls of my bedroom....or the screen of the tv if we're being real, and I'm ready to actually start seeing my friends and family more again.  Hope you are all doing well. 

 

XO,

Tara

Powder Room Makeover

So I've been wanting to makeover our powder room.  This is the bathroom that most guests use when visiting, and I'd like to change it to make it more our style but with more of an eclectic look.  I feel like the powder room is the place to let your hair down and have fun.  It's small so that it can easily be re-painted and the accessories can be changed out without costing a fortune. 

For now, I'd like to go with a really dark color - perhaps a navy? Currently, our vanity is a dark ornate wood with a bronzed mirror above it.  I'd like to change out the vanity for something with clean lines and that is lighter.  The mirror shown here is pretty and is from Wisteria, but I've also had my eye on this French Gilt Mirror also from Wisteria.  I'd like to add in some fun art or accessories, or maybe do some really old black and white family pictures with gold frames.  The lighting is currently the typical 3 light fixture over the mirror, but I'd like to get rid of that in exchange for a jug lantern similar to this one shown below.  Ohhh I'm getting excited!  This will definitely be my summer project!

Powder Room Makeover by tara-thesilverlining featuring a moroccan mirror

Let's Talk About Books!

 

My dad used to always tell me that growing up I always had my nose in a book.  I can't deny that it's probably a true statement, and well here lately, you could definitely say it's been true...although sometimes on an ipad, not an actual book, but those are minor details.  Getting back to the point, I find that getting lost in a book is a great way to relax and let go of all the stresses and list-making that goes on in my head most of the day.  At night I sometimes have a really hard time shutting off my thoughts, but if I read and focus on the characters and story, I can more easily drift off to sleep. 

 

I like reading a variety of books - mysteries, memoirs, chick lit, and the list goes on.  I already ordered the books that are on my to read list, and they are stacked and patiently waiting for me to pack them for our trip to Hawaii coming up soon!  Well, that is with the exception of the Nate Berkus hardback obviously, but it will be waiting for me on my coffee table to browse through this summer.

 

I'm always open for suggestions of books to add to my list.  What are some of your favorite books right now??  Do share!

 

XO,

Tara

Sun Hat Roundup

It's definitely pool time in our part of the world, and I could not be more grateful!  I live for days lounging by the pool with a cocktail and good book.  It's my happy place.  This past weekend I had some girlfriends join me at my house for a day of brunch, CAbi shopping in my living room, and an afternoon by the pool.  It was one of the best days!  I, however, had some requests to borrow a hat, and I offered up the two sun hats I had, which got me thinking that I want a big floppy hat.  I have two straw fedora hats, one with a short brim and one with a wider brim, but I think I need a big floppy hat next.  We are planning a vacation to Hawaii in June, and I NEED one, right?!  :)  I mean doesn't every girl need a big floppy hat?  I actually think I have my eye on a black one at Target.  Here is a roundup of some good options in all different styles and price points if you are currently shopping for a hat too!

Sun Hat Roundup by tara-thesilverlining featuring a floppy hat

 

Noel Stewart floppy hat/Eugenia Kim straw hat/ASOS fedora hat/Michael Stars fedora hat/J Crew straw hat/

Panama hat/American Eagle Outfitters floppy hat/Forever 21 straw hat/Forever 21 fedora hat

Rustic Mexican Breakfast Pizza

Happy Belated Cinco de Mayo!!

 

We did not go out to celebrate the day as we both worked a bit later, and well by the time we got home, we were ready to eat and get ready for bed.  So in honor of the day, and due to the fact that I need to go to the grocery store in a major way, I created a Rustic Mexican Breakfast Pizza from items we already had on hand.  It actually turned out to be yummy although it may not look the best.

 

 

Rustic Mexican Breakfast Pizza

 

 Pizza Dough (I used a Betty Crocker Pouch that you just add water to)

1 can Black Beans

1 can Rotel

Mozzarella Cheese

4 Eggs

4 pieces of Turkey Bacon, diced (optional)

Salt & Pepper

Garlic Salt

Cumin

 

Spread pizza dough in pan.  Mix black beans and rotel in bowl.  Use slotted spoon to spoon bean mixture over dough to not add extra juices. Sprinkle cheese over beans.  Break eggs over cheese layer.  Season to taste.  Bake at 450 degrees for about 15 minutes or until dough browns.

 

We decided there are plenty of variations that we would try whenever we make this again.  Avocado would have been delicious if we had any!  I would have liked to have this with a small arugula salad to make it a complete meal.  There's always next time!  How did you guys celebrate Cinco de Mayo?

 

XO,

Tara

Thailand

Hi lovelies!  I know it's been quite a while since I've posted.  Remember my post a while back on My Adult Version of Red-Light-Green Light.  Well as I explained in my post there are times of the year that my work is extremely busy and well, this has been one of those times.  It's actually been a busier time than normal.  But it is what it is, and I survived.  We are done and now have time to breathe.  What better way to relax than to run off on vacation to none other than Thailand?!  Yes, you read that right!!  I feel like this is a trip of a lifetime, and in two short weeks, we'll be leaving on a jet plane.  I've really had no time to prepare, so now it's green light - time for shopping, packing and planning for the trip!  To help inspire me, I've put together this board.  I think keeping it simple will be key.  Some maxi dresses, bathing suits, sandals, and I should be good to go!

Thailand by tara-thesilverlining featuring a green halter top

 

 

Xo,

Tara