Adieu. For Now.

Yes.

You read it correctly.

Today is my last day as a blogger in this particular space.

Why? Well..I'm so glad you asked. When I began this blog five years ago (yes..it'll be 5 years here shortly), I dreamed that it would be an oasis. An oasis of resources for those who, like me, wanted to live a fabulous life on a budget.  And it was that...for a while.  I was a bit ahead of the curve with recessionary blogging because...well...I was broke BEFORE the economy officially tanked.  It was always my goal to bring a fresh voice to the blogosphere and, for a while, I believe I was successful. Fast forward to now and I feel that I'm a Broke Socialite who has lost her way...in the blogosphere.  I began to feel myself conforming and doing what other bloggers do. Read: my KRYPTONITE. I've become far too comfortable (and sometimes lazy...ouch! Those were my toes...) and that simply is not my style.

The good news is that there is a plan in place. I have been fortunate enough, with my blog as a platform, to build a brand.  Isn't that what most of us want to do? Build brands. Make a living. (See the Blackberry commercial below...) I believe the practice of blogging has evolved and I want to be on the front lines of the next wave. Social media is personal to me and I think that I've just the voice to usher more change for us all.

What I most want NOT to be is the socialite who overstayed her welcome...*clutches virtual pearls*  You know the one: sloshing around full of martinis, stumbling over couches, speaking loudly etc. It's not a good look.  Virtually or otherwise. Yikes.

I am grateful for your support. Every comment. Every post. (Lurkers, y'all too:-))

It's time for me to "Exit. Stage Left." from The Broke Socialite as you know her.

I'm NEVER the last one to leave a party but I'll start one in the blink of an eye.

Stay tuned.

I love you all and I leave you with my personal anthem! Dance with me, won't you?

Shameeka

Baubles, Baubles and More Baubles!

I have a problem, y'all.

*inching a bit closer to you*

I've never met a big, fat, ostentatious, chunky necklace that is affordable (and doesn't look cheap) that I could turn down.  The bulkier the better and, in fact, I'd say that fabulous baubles have become a part of my signature look.

For the past few years, I've been trying to find a way to organize them that: 1. I personally liked and 2. was not a "lady" or "evening gown" (you've seen these, I'm sure...HATE them).  I stumbled upon these simple yet utilitarian jewelry trees at Marshall's. Can you believe they were on clearance? I was able to grab them both for less than $10!  The Broke Socialite is back, y'all!  I did spin on my heels to check for the Candid Camera/Punk'd crew.  I even had one of the associates scan them to cut down any embarrassment that I might experience when I got to the cash wrap.

I'd grown so tired of tripping over the necklaces in my jewelry box(es).  I could never get a glimpse of all of my options until now. It's the little things, y'all....the little things.

How do YOU organize and store your fun jewelry? Any creative tips to share? What about earrings, rings and bracelets?

The Broke Socialite Vlogs...2011

Resources from today's vlog:

Atlanta Weddings by Gail Johnson & Hester Parks of Wedding Soiree

Poor Girl Gourmet by Amy McCoy of Poor Girl Gourmet

Happy New Year!

And a Happy New Year to you all!

Things in The Broke Socialite-ville are moving at the speed of light. There are some changes on the horizon (all good, of course) and I hope that you are looking forward to the bounty that 2011 will bring us all.

On this first business day of 2011, I am spending a bit of time with one of my mentors, James Andrews.  One of the things we'll talk about is how I can take your loyalty and marry it with my passion to create a better community for YOU! I am so excited that I can hardly stand it.  I'll also spend some virtual time today with my creative design team.  Yes...The Broke Socialite will soon receive a facelift.  It's high time.

What is at the top of YOUR list to achieve in 2011?

It WAS lavish!

Mr TBS and I at the lavish! Opening Night Party

Moi in the Smilebooth at the Oh-So-Swanky Rue + HGTV parTAY at lavish!

LaPlates and I partnered for these great commemorative plates, cups, notepads for lavish!

Truth be told, I am still very exhausted from the planning and execution of lavish!, the FIRST lifestyle bloggers' conference ever.

My dear friend, Ginny Branch Stelling, of My Favorite Color Is Shiny said it best: "lavish! is the best thing to happen to Atlanta since EVER!" Ha! Don't you love it?  Over 150 lifestyle bloggers converged upon our fair city from as far away as Seattle and New York.  Some of our favorites like Anne Sage, Cassie LaValle, Nichelle Stephens, Grace Bonney, Johnica Reed and Brian Patrick Flynn graced us with their presence and REMARKABLE content.

If you followed the Twitter stream over the weekend (and beyond), you'll see that the community rallied behind this event in full force.  There is not enough space on these internet waves for me to express the level of thanks and gratitude to all of the sponsors, speakers, attendees and volunteer staff.  We'll talk about each of these categories of wonderful people over the course of the next couple of weeks.

I had an opportunity to meet the editor of the first blog that I ever stalked read, May December.  Melissa C Morris is a pioneer in the lifestyle blog arena and an icon amongst the preppy blogger set. She was just as I had imagined her all of these years: pretty, brilliant and HILARIOUS.

There have been LEGIONS of blog posts written since everyone returned to their home offices last week.  I thought I might share a few.  The official pictures will be here in a few days; I can't wait to post them.  Until then, enjoy the recaps from the blogs below:

May December

Camille Styles

Professor Diva Diaries

Blu Label Bungalow

Amid Privilege

Reasons and Roses

Alan and Val

Blue Eyed Yonder

Confetti Style

Smilebooth Photos from the Rue + HGTV soiree at lavish!

Enjoy!

A TBS Primer: A Halloween Soiree On A Budget for the Chic, Fabulous and Us Procrastinators

I usually do little more for Halloween than try to evade the candy-grubbing kids in our neighborhood—all six of them! Hey, why should I buy a monstrous bag of candy for only six kids? I’d rather pretend that I’m not home. Furthermore, since The Boy is off at college (Go SMU Mustangs!), the fun for me has almost been vacuumed out of Halloween.

Since Halloween 2010 is over the weekend, I’ve been giving some thought to a soiree. A few friends, a few cocktails, a few bites, and a few BWUAHAHAAHAHAS are the perfect potion for a swanky Halloween cocktail party! If you’re not sure what’s on your agenda, I’ve included tips for a budget-friendly partay!

Costumes? On such short notice, encourage everyone to simply wear black. Masks are optional. One of the most stressful elements of Halloween is trying to figure what you’re going to “be.” Make it easy for your friends. You might also have favors; they are plentiful in Dollar Tree-ish stores.

Your backdrop? Rent Carrie, Friday the Thirteenth, or any scream-inducing movie, pop it in, and put the TV on mute! Dim the lights, ignite a few candles, and pop in your iPod with a Halloween-inspired play list. I’ve included some suggested tunes below:

• “Ghostbusters,” Ray Parker, Jr.
• “Thriller,” Michael Jackson
• “The Monster Mash,” Boris Pickett
• "Jaws"theme
• "X-Files" theme
• "The Munsters" theme
• "The Adams Family theme
• “I Put A Spell On You,” Nina Simone
• “In the Midnight Hour,” Wilson Pickett
• "Twilight Zone" theme
• Also include various Halloween-esque sound bites.

Decor? If you’re inspired to carve a pumpkin or two into jack-o-lanterns, do so this weekend. As mentioned above, your lighting will be the saving grace, so pop a couple into the scarily-etched gourds. Not that ambitious? Well ... buy a few of those $1 plastic jack-o-lanterns and place them throughout your entertaining space. Fill them with treats! If you’re so inclined (and it’s in your budget), pick up festive cups and napkins.  My dear friend Eddie Ross whipped up a fiendish feather wreath for just a little cash. Here are his instructions.

Libations? Dependent on your audience, grab a case of beer and a few bottles of wine. It is critical that you whip up a signature drink! Try a Almond Joy or Milky Way Martini or Witches’ Brew.

Bites? Finally! Think tapas. An antipasti platter. Nuts. Popcorn. Skewers (veggie, shrimp, chicken satay, etc.). Reference The Minimalist’s small plate recommendations for ideas.


Entertainment? Should the natives grow restless, keep them entertained with: karaoke, Halloween MadLibs, or Halloween-inspired charades (using a stack of index cards write words related to Halloween, split in two teams and the guessing game begins).

Cheers to hoping you’ll do something fun on All Hallow’s Eve. All that’s missing from this concoction is you and a group of great friends!

What are YOUR plans this year?

The Broke Socialite's Guide Primer To The Perfect Social Networking Meet-Up/Conference Wardrobe

 LolaHaze featuring Cheap Monday jeans

One of the things that I love about being a social media maven(ha!) blogger is the opportunity to attend some absolutely fabulous meet-ups and conferences.  As social networkers, so much of our time is spent in front of a computer/on a smartphone that even the mere mention of looming events where you must engage with ACTUAL PEOPLE (*clutching my virtual pearls*) can throw you into a sartorial frenzy.  Before you know it, you're paralyzed by the horror that is: "What am I going to wear?!"  I contend there's no need for such drama.  I also believe that you shouldn't spend a small fortune trying to impress people who a) likely do not care OR b) have never seen a stitch of clothing that you already own. Helllllooooooo!!!

Some tips?

• In true TBS fashion and if you've never done it before, this is the perfect opportunity to shop your own closet. There is very little more satisfying than running across a piece that you've forgotten about or that would be great married with another recently purchased item. (Insert 'Happy Dance' here!).
• Unless you expect to run into The Queen of England, allow jeans, chinos or leggings to be your foundation.  I've not been to the event yet where jeans were inappropriate.  I do, however, recommend that you not wear your rattiest ones.  Remember, you're likely meeting someone for the first time and, though, there is a semi-mystique about us social networkers....there's no need to perpetuate the myth by being unkempt. Though most of our engagement is virtual, first impressions still count.
• Dependent on the season, layers are a great option.  In a full conference environment, there is usually a hotel involved. With icy meeting rooms.  A nicely tailored blazer or jacket is an essential. Whether covering a t-shirt or collared shirt, having a jacket allows a great deal of flexibility.  Sweaters also work.
• Sometimes a jacket isn't enough when the hotel has set the thermometer on "Alaska" degrees, so ladies might also consider tossing a pashmina into your bags.
• Comfortable shoes are a must. Since there will likely be a great deal of walking and standing involved, be mindful of this when choosing a pair.  A nice pair of loafers, ballet flats or your most tolerable heels should work.  Breaking in a new pair of shoes is the last thing you want to do (Remind me to tell you all about the time that I thought it'd be a great idea to prance around in my new Louboutins for two days at a conference...Can you spell O-U-C-H?)
• Consider a t-shirt that advertises your blog or Twitter address.  I recently sported my The Follow Me Tee to a Tweet-Up and it was instantly a hit! It's a minimal investment and an immediate icebreaker!
• If there is a dressier soiree on the agenda, you can never go wrong with a jersey dress (all of us ladies should have one in our closets).  My favorite one is wrap-style and black. I can dress it up with funky accessories from my jewelry collection, tights and boots for the evening having easily come from wearing it earlier in the day with a sweater and pearl earrings.
• Don't get trapped in the "multiple change" vortex. Unless you're going to the Emmys, there really isn't a need. With most airlines charging for multiple bags, you should really strive to bring everything in a carry-on should there be travel involved.
• A larger tote or messenger bag is essential, as well.

This Friday through Sunday, I'll be attending Blogalicious in Miami and have settled on the weekend's wardrobe. Like a good blogger, I'm taking my own advice.  Versus obsessing about what I'll wear, I'd rather enjoy the excitement associated with FINALLY meeting some of my favorite bloggers.  After all, I'm their biggest fan.

What do you typically wear to social networking events?

Get Your Tickets Now: The Broke Socialite Does Sugar Coma Festival

Pardon My Unexpected Absence This Week...

...but I have been some kind of sick, y'all. Much better now, thankyouverymuch.

Have I mentioned that I need an intern in the WORST way? *sigh*

Well...until Monday, I thought I'd leave you with this!  The Broke Socialite's tours are featured in the October 2010 issue of Southern Living magazine.  Wheeeeeeeeeeeee! *spins around in a fabulous, full-skirted party dress.* Pick one up!

Sugar Coma Festival: Tickets on Sale!

For nearly a year now, The Broke Socialite Media has produced a wonderful series of lifestyle events with a social media twist from Atlanta to DC!  It's been a great deal of fun.

In celebration of all of the wonderful bakeries, cupcakeries and restaurants that we've worked with and the great people who have taken our shuttle tours, we are ramping up our efforts and are pleased to announce The Broke Socialite Does...Sugar Coma Festival in conjunction with Social Media Atlanta.

Come one, come all.  The first event of its kind in Atlanta, Sugar Coma Festival will bring some of the Southeast's best pastry chefs, bakers and sugar artisans under ONE roof, Le Fais Do-Do in Atlanta.
Not your ordinary food expo,  Sugar Coma Festival will not disappoint.

Here's what is store:

• Dozens of tasting tables from pralines to cookies to cupcakes.  You'll stroll and enjoy samples at your leisure.
• A bevy of gluten-free and vegan options so that everyone can enjoy the festival
• A family-friendly environment (kids 10 & under are FREE!)
• A DJ spinning sugary-sweet themed songs
• A marketplace where you can purchase full-sized portions
• For decadences' sake, a champagne suite

Regular tickets are a mere $25.  If you purchase by 9/15, you'll save $5! Tell a friend, bring a friend. This event has ROAD TRIP written all over it if you live within driving distance of Atlanta. Group rates are also available.

REGISTER HERE!

What a small price for a wonderful experience!

Boundaries: I'm Tired. There. I Said It.

This has been a whirlwind year for me and The Broke Socialite brand; so much so that I have not had a real break from work (whether corporate or my own empire) since June 2009.  I'm not as young as I used to be and my bad habits are finally catching up with me.

I have been mostly head-down building my own brand, networking, creating lifestyle experiences in the form of tours and conferences and helping other small business owners build their own empires.  When my friend, Melenese, gifted me with a trip to Europe to visit she and her husband for birthday, I was floored.  I did not want to accept it at first. "It 's too much", I protested.  She insisted and I finally gave in to her nagging me pressure.  You see, Mel has been watching me burn the candle at both ends since January.  She detected that I needed a respite and that I did not have the sense enough to take my self.  Mel did what real girlfriends do...took control.  I love her for it.

I want to make the best of my vacation and benefit from the respite.  When I return, we'll be going into the last quarter of this year, so I've decided that there will be no major commitments made for the balance of it (unless, of course, Oprah calls...LOL). A serial over-extender, I want my life back.  For that reason, whatever is on my calendar when I leave in a few days will be IT for 2010.  I've a nicely orchestrated fall with wonderful speaking engagements, new tours, great consulting projects and lest we forget the production of my novella, Instantly!: How Quickly I Hate My Job and lavish!, the lifestyle bloggers conference in December 2010 that I'm producing.   I'm committed to giving my all to my existing portfolio of projects and am looking forward to strutting into 2011 with a better work/life balance.

As difficult as it is to admit, sometimes boundaries are necessary plus I need to begin prepare for this half-marathon in February. Great. Of all things, that happened to make the cut (*rolls eyes*).  Though I sorta protest, I'm looking forward to it.  My cousin-in-love, Natalie and I have made a pact to train together and run the Disney Princess Half-Marathon. Each of us has different reasons for doing it so we're supporting each other.  Natalie married one of my favorite cousins a few years back.  As busy families go, we do not see and talk to each other enough (though everyone is in the Atlanta area). The funny thing is that she and I have learned more about each other through being friends on Facebook. I'm happy to share this experience with her and to get a portion of my life back whilst building my empire towards the sky!

How good are YOU with boundaries? Any tips/ideas to share?

Say A Little Prayer?

I hope everyone had a great holiday.  I spent the majority of my day...well...laboring.  Don't cry for me; it was certainly by choice and I made progress on quite a bit.  I even managed to squeeze in a meeting. I usually keep things light around here but I felt inclined to share piece that I saw on ABC News last night before supper.

In 2003, Mr TBS and I were laid off within months of each other.  He so happened to be working two jobs at the time (out of necessity); so he had one to fall back on. I, on the other hand, had a tougher go of it.  It was nearly a whole year before I was able to secure full-time employment.  Had it not been for God's grace and family, we would have been homeless.  In fact, we were technically homeless; my mother did what Mamas do and took us in.

It was during that time that I became more focused on saving where we could, cutting corners and sometimes doing without.  All of this became my "normal".  What I can say positively is that none of our circumstances ever got me down.  We did not have a lot of money but the bills still came, tuition for The Boy's private school had to be paid and it looked really bleak.  Our faith never waivered and, eventually, we rebounded.

That's why starting this blog was important to me.  I wanted other women to see that if I could do it...overcome being unemployed, be temporarily broke but not brokeN and keep my held high, they could too.  Most people think I live a charmed life...and I do.  Fortunately, I am wise enough to know that my happiness nor my blessings come from stuff.  I have everything I need and most of what I want but I tend to lean on relationships and lessons for inspiration.

I'll never get too big for my britches; my conscience will not allow it to happen.  I remember those pangs of uncertainty and the feeling of robbing Peter to pay Paul. It hurts; especially when there are children involved.

I challenge you to say a little prayer for someone who might be struggling financially or is feeling weary in their search for employment. May they realize and understand that they are not brokeN.

Oh, Deer!

I'm a stickler for proper grammar...y'all (Southern colloquialisms aside) have likely learned that over these past 5 years. Please rest assured that the title of today's post is NOT a typo.  When I said that I was grateful to be alive on my birthday, I could not have meant it more.

As it turns out, I was in a car accident on my birthday eve.  It seems that a deer and I were attempting to occupy the same space (I in my station wagon and him via a leap) simultaneously.  Yes...a deer crashed into me.  I was driving in an unfamiliar area so I was not going very fast but I never saw him coming.  Since there was no shoulder, I had to drive (shattered windshield and all) to the entrance of a subdivision.  It was there that I immediately called 911.  The person who was driving immediately behind me witnessed the collision, of course, and was kind enough to pull over.

To make a very long story short, the officer said that if I had slammed on brakes (as most people who see deer tend to do), I likely would have been injured.  He went on to say that if I'd hit my brakes, more cars/hurt people surely would have been involved.

I spent this year's birthday being a bit more introspective than I have in quite a while.  I guess seeing your life flash before your eyes tends to have that effect.  I did a mini Bucket List...what do I want to do between ages 37 and 38? My list includes being on television, taking a girlfriends' trip to the beach and seeing at least one movie in the THEATER a month.

What's on YOUR bucket list?

Happy 37th Birthday To MEEEEEEEEEEE!

Won't you join me in enjoying a virtual glass of champagne today?! I am grateful to be alive.

This. That. The Other.

Happy Friday, everyone!

I hope you've had a great week.  Mine has been a bit stressful but when all of the dust settled, I find myself breathing a bit easier.

As we coast into another summer weekend (trust me...we'd better enjoy them because we'll be talking about December holidays before we know it), I wanted to share a couple of things with you.

First of all, I am honored to share that Parenting magazine has named The Broke Socialite to its list of Favorite Mommy Bloggers for 2010.  Truth be told, I was taken a little off guard because...well...I do not consider myself a Mommy Blogger.  As a stepmother, The Boy (who is off to college next week...can you believe it?) made the occasional appearance over here but it is rare that I chronicle that aspect of my life. I've always admired Mommy Bloggers and how they've organized and aligned.  I'm grateful for the honor, nonetheless, and I accept it on behalf of all of the STEPmommy bloggers far and wide.

It has been my pleasure to present a series of foodie tours in multiple markets throughout the country this summer.  There is one that is near and dear to my heart that I wanted to share with everyone.  On August 28th, The Broke Socialite will host a tour for my friends who eat Gluten Free.  We'll tour restaurants in Atlanta that offer Gluten Free menus.  I got so many email from people who said they wanted to participate but their dadblasted celiac disease kept them way.  I was happy to offer a tour of this type.  We'll shuttle about the city tasting items from some of Atlanta's best restaurants and engage with their chefs.  I, for one, can not wait.  If you know someone who might be interested, here's the link to the tickets.

Finally, I've been writing a lot recently.  Along with writing sometimes comes its worrisome cousin, writer's block.  When that happens, I whip out one of my theme songs that gets me going.  Lately, I've been playing a lot of "Just Fine" by Mary J Blige.  It gets my mojo flowing and my feet tapping.  I've always felt that it's important to have a soundtrack to my life.  This song is definitely one of my favorites so I'll leave you with it.

What is the theme song to YOUR life?

lavish!: An UnConference Experience For The Lifestyle Social Networker - Very, Very Early Bird REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

I am soooooo excited to share that Very, Very Early Bird registration has opened for lavish!, an unconference for lifestyle bloggers in Atlanta from December 10-12! Woo hoo!  From now until Sunday, August 15, you can enjoy a registration rate of $159 and save $40 off regular registration!  Talk about a deal, right?  Your registration fee ensures full access to all networking and educational sessions, swag and meals.  It's important to me that this conference be accessible and budget friendly for everyone. The host hotel is The Mansion on Peachtree here in Atlanta and they've wonderful conference rates, as well. Our block of rooms will be available for reservation within the next two weeks.


Don't miss out on this remarkable rate! Register here!


For more information about lavish!, do follow updates on the website, Facebook and Twitter!  We've included some FAQs below for your convenience.


Q. What qualifies as "lifestyle" tracks in the social media realm?
A. lavish! has been designed to meet the needs of the social media enthusiast with interests in fashion/beauty, food/wine, interior design/shelter, travel/leisure, creative arts and other general lifestyle considerations.

Q. Which applications will be discussed at lavish!?
A. We will cover technology such as blogs, Facebook, Twitter and other social media tools and how they apply to social media engagement.

Q. Must I have a lifestyle blog to attend lavish!?
A. Absolutely not! The slightest appreciation for lifestyle social media makes you a target attendee for lavish! Whether you a hobbyist, seasoned blogger or fall someplace in between, you'll be able to meet your favorite lifestyle bloggers and/or attend sessions for educational purposes.

Q. Are there volunteer opportunities or need-based scholarships available?
A. Yes! There are a limited number of each. If you are interested, please contact Shameeka Ayers via email at shameeka at thebrokesocialitemedia dot com.

Q. What is the registration fee for lavish!?
A. $159-$239 (dependent upon your attendee category)

Q. What is included in my registration?
A. Registration includes Friday night cocktail reception, Saturday educational sessions & networking events (including breakfast and lunch) and Sunday Brunch.

Q. How do I register for lavish!?
A. Here is the registration link for lavish!: http://bit.ly/ba1Vgj

Q. I am interested in being a speaker at lavish!. What should I do?
A. Please contact Shameeka Ayers at shameeka at thebrokesocialitemedia dot com.

(Not) Enough of A Good Thing...

I truly hope everyone had a wonderful holiday weekend.

Mine was remarkable. Lots of fun, family and wonderful food.

Speaking of great food, Mr TBS did a remarkable job on the grill this weekend.  He whipped out a couple of new dishes that even surprised me!  I typically plan micromanage  our menus but I've so much on my plate right now that I decided to let him have at it.  Though he indulged me with a couple of our traditional side dishes like potato salad and barbecued baked beans, a couple of his avant garde recipes certainly won me over.  Inspired by a similar one at FLIP Burger in Atlanta, he made angus burgers with blue cheese.  He topped those off with a dollop of sweet onion jam.  The flavors were explosive!  We're trying to do better with our fruit and vegetable consumption around here (barring the burgers, of course), he made a delightful spinach salad topped with grilled peaches, bacon crumbles and a light vinigrette dressing.  I didn't think I'd like the peaches but they were soooooo good. Here's the recipe for the salad!

The leftovers are long gone but I could surely go for another burger.  Thank goodness for self-restraint.

I'd also like to share another list from The Minimalist.  This installation of his 101 meal ideas is grill-centric.  You should definitely print it and add it to your recipe binder.

What was your favorite dish from the holiday weekend?

The Broke Socialite Does...Freeze! Part 1

In addition to shoes, I have another weakness. Ice cream. Not just any old ice cream, though. While butter pecan will go down as my all-time favorite, I love funky ice cream flavors.  Until recently, I'd gone exclusively to creameries like Ben and Jerry's for my fix but I'm discovering other creameries, gelateria and brands are ramping up their brands.

This past Saturday, I held another one of my The Broke Socialite Does tours.  It was called FREEZE! and was dedicated to all things ice cream, popsicles, sorbet, gelato, milkshakes, et al.  It was absolutely dreamy; especially in 90 degrees weather.  I wish I could relive this experience everyday.  We started out at No Mas Cantina where we were treated to brunch and iced dulce de leche.  They also whipped up a spicy mango ice cream (a tourist enjoying her cone above) with juuuuuuust the right kick.

Our next stop was The Mercantile, which hosted one of their ice cream vendors, Westside Creamery. Swoon!  Owner Maggie Rentz served up a variety of flavors including Georgia Peach, Coconut Key Lime sorbet, Rasberry Framboise Sorbet (above), Blueberry Marscapone and a few others. No coveting necessary; they ship!

Very little wrong with starting off a Saturday with a root beer float.  Parish Foods & Goods hosted us at their upstairs bar and we all sipped on the Abita Root Beer Float which was divine.  So very refreshing!

One of the most anticipated stops was The King of Pops.  This guy? In a word: wow.  Having reinvented himself after being laid off over a year ago, Steven whips up organic popsicles in a variety of exotic flavors and peddles them for $2.50 each at a popular street corner in Atlanta. Genius, right?

These ladies WERE enjoying blackberry mojito and strawberry lemonade popsicles.

Before heading back to UrbanPl8 for lunch, our final stop was Paolo's Gelato.  We had a great tutorial about gelato and Paolo's process.  In addition to the Atlanta location, there is also one in Charleston.  My favorite? Green apple. Simply divine!

There is really too much to share in one post...so part 2 will be your Friday read. 

What's your favorite brand/flavor of ice cream/frozen treat?

Spa Day At Four Seasons Atlanta

I've had a busy past couple of weeks. To say that I need a body double would be a gross understatement! I am so thrilled that I had the foresight two Sundays ago to take advantage of a massage at Four Seasons Atlanta.

Spa At Four Seasons invited me over to try their ImmuniTea massage and take a tour of their spa facilities. There aren't enough words that express how relaxing the massage was.  After sipping on a tea in the spa waiting room, I was ushered to the Wisteria room for a 50 minute treatment.  It included an exfoliating scrub on my back and the right amount of pressure from the masseuse's magic hands put me right to sleep.  And I can't do this every week because? I must build these treatments into my empire's budget! If you're in Atlanta, the massage will be offered, by popular demand, until the end of August.

After the massage, I treated myself to Chicken and Waffles at Park 75. I felt like Eloise!

When did you last treat yourself to the spa? What's your favorite treatment?


Disclosure: I received the service mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 

Happy Father's Day, Daddy TBS!

Daddy TBS (he's a semi-professional bass fisherman if you didn't notice:-))

Dads have it so tough.

The greeting card industry has made a circus of Mother's Day but if you visit any Target today there will be no one clamoring over sweet prose on folded paper.  Head over to a spa right now and there will be very few buying gift certificates for their dads.

A true Daddy's girl, I certainly know mine like the back of my hand.  Truth be told, he'd rather Sissy TBS and I not spend any money on him so that we can do something for ourselves. We, of course, ignore that and purchase his annual pair of white Reebok sneakers (Hey! They are what he want!), give him a gift certificate to his beloved Bass Pro Shop (the ONLY store in which I've never been able to find a thing to buy) and share a wonderful dinner.

I can't wait for this Sunday.  I'm preparing dinner: Yogurt-marinated and grilled chicken skewers over rice,  drunken shrimp, grilled corn, mango coleslaw, strawberry cake and homemade lemonade.  Daddy TBS will tell us what we're doing wrong with our cars, our flower beds and our mortgage rates.  We'll protest with rolled eyes, sure enough, but secretly feel an extra layer of protection.  Daddy TBS means well.  It reminds me how, even though I'll be walking into a new decade in a few years, I'm always his girl.

Any special plans this weekend for you?