Take Me Out to the Ball Game

A hot dog at a ballgame beats roast beef at the Ritz

-Humphrey Bogart

I absolutely love America's greatest best time, in particular my Tampa Bay Rays!! There is just nothing better than a hot dog,  ice cold coke, and cracker jacks while watching some athletic cuties doing what they do best. Mike Joyce, call me!!

It's so easy to look super cute and athletic at these games while still showing off your team spirit. A plus side of having my games in the Trop (A.K.A. Tropicana Field), constant air-conditioning.

Until next time,

kCa

Outfit of the Day

Now that I'm done with coaching, I already miss those kids, I finally had a free afternoon to spend with my little brother. We went to the restaurant of his choice, a local sandwich shop called Bread and Butter. It was so nice to finally dress up a little more than a pair of Norts!

Until next time,

kCa

The Vinoy Hotel

At the beginning of the summer, I had the most amazing opportunity to live in an adorable bed-n-breakfast located right in Downtown St. Pete, Florida. 

Located right across the street was the historical Vinoy Park Hotel. While staying at the b-n-b, I learned so much about its rich history and timeless style. (So much history that it was, in fact, added to the U.S. National Register of Historical Places).

Located right on the Tampa Bay, the Vinoy opened in 1925 as a winter resort for many of society's elite. Such names included Babe Ruth, Calvin Coolidge, Herbert Hoover and James Stewart. 

Originally, the room rate was $20 per night, the highest in the area. Then, once World War II hit, the U.S. Army took over and used the resort as a training school. After the war, the hotel had to close its doors. There it stood until 1991 when Renaissance Hotels bought the property and spent $93 million to renovate the hotel and bring it back to it's former glory. 

If you ever find yourself in the St. Pete area, I highly recommend staying at this hotel. Because there is so much history, one can appreciate its beauty and style on a greater level. If you look very carefully you can still find some of the amazing details that originally made this hotel such a splendor. 

Until next time,

kCa

What's In My Longchamp?

For my 20th birthday, my parents bought me the most gorgeous Longchamp tote bag in the Deep Red. I just got in monogrammed in a great gold stitching (team colors)!!

What better time to share with you what I have to keep with me at all times!!

These bags are great!! They have so much space!!

1) Two (yes two) Lilly Pulitzer agendas.

2) An extra hair bow (you never now when you'll need them)

3) An extra pair of goggles.

4) A slew of pens and pencils

5) My Clinique lip gloss (in Mimosa Blossom)

6) Bright Yellow Baekgaard wallet

7) Lilly Pulitzer highlighters

8) My keys (with monogrammed key ring from friend, eHr)

9) Digital Camera

10) Bath and Body Works Hand Sanitizer (I use way too much of this)

11) Ray Ban Clubmaster Sunglasses

What do y'all keep in your bags?

Yesterday's Outfit of the Day

Yesterday's post got away from me. It was last my coaching day of the season and, after having playing 25 six year old kids for an hour, I was extremely tired. Today, I thought I would make up for lost time and share my general outfit of not only yesterday, but EVERY day. My swim practice outfits are nice and colorful. I think it keeps practice more lively and fun.

Until next time,

kCa

Best Dishes Y'all

Being a southern girl, I have grown up with all of the aromas and tastes that come with good ole fashioned Country Cooking: Biscuits and Gravy, Grits, Pulled Pork... YUM!!! If anyone deserved the title for this cuisine, Paula Deen would be crowned the Queen of Comfort Food.

My Paula Deen obsession began while one day aimlessly flipping through TV channels at college on a cold winter day. At little homesick, I wanted nothing more than my Grandma Ann's homemade baked potato soup. I finally get to the Food Network and, low-and-behold, Paula was making a baked potato soup looking just like Grandma's. 

From that point on, I've watched her show nearly everyday, practically drooling over all the southern cooking. I began cooking and baking all sorts of comfort food during my free time. My friends really appreciated finally some home cooked meals, you don't get that too often on a college student's budget and schedule. 

I have taken this summer as an opportunity to find new recipes (both family and borrowed), as well as cookbooks to gather up plenty of new dishes to make for my friends when we get back to school. They are constantly letting me know how excited they are for me to get back to Tallahassee. Some have even made "reservations" for me to cook for them. I'm very flattered.

The next step for me would be to make my way up to Savannah, Georgia and experience Paula Deen's cooking first hand her restaurant "The Lady and Sons". I suggested Savannah as our family vacation, but my parents agreed that a trip revolving just around a restaurant was a little silly. Oh well, someday I'll get there and maybe even be able to meet Paula herself!! 

Until next time,

kCa

Outfit of the Day

After such an exciting day yesterday, today's outfit seems boring. My pineapple shoes seem out of place, but they are just so adorable. I love being able to add a little something extra to my  ho-hum outfits.

Until next time,

kCa

Dress Codes

I just received the Dress Code for my Early Childhood Education and WOW, it's a little strict. This includes my student teaching and my actual classes. I guess that means that I have to do some shopping. Here's a little sampling:

• No jeans or shorts of any kind.
• Hair styles should be appropriate for school setting (be careful of "trendy" styles)
• In the field you must wear appropriate professional shoes, no flip flops.

Here are some sample outfits that I would wear when dealing those energetic kids.

Until next time,

kCa

Outfit of the Day

Can you tell that I picked out my brother's outfit? I just really wished that he had a needle-point belt. Maybe I'll get him one for Christmas: Nautical flags please!!

Birthday Celebrations.

After long day of errands, doctor's appointments, and coaching, I was so excited to finally be able to celebrate my little brother's, aCj, birthday with our parents. It was a nice, small celebration at the Thirsty Marlin, a local "Florida-Caribbean" restaurant in our hometown. 

Afterwards, we came home to big out on some extremely chocolate cake and open presents. Among the video games and Phillie's apparel (not from me- I'm a RAYS fan), I brother opened the present from me: two t-shirts from my Ralph Lauren during my Outlet Mall shopping spree.

 For those of you who don't know, I'm currently in the process of shaping my brother into the perfect, southern, and fratty gentleman. It's a strenuous process, but he'll thank me later. I'm not doing anything two drastic! I'm just nudging him into the right direction: "Chino Shorts > Cargo Shorts" "Yes ma'am, No ma'am" "Bow Ties > Regular Ties," you know, the important stuff. 

I have to say, I think I'm doing a good job. By the time he gets into college, he'll just be another smooth, polite, southern gentleman that will make all the girls swoon.

Until next time, 

kCa

Happy 15th Birthday to aCj

It was nice growing up with someone like you - someone to lean on, someone to count on... someone to tell on!  ~Author Unknown

Happy Birthday to the most amazing, caring little brother in the whole world, aCj!!

He's grown up so fast!! It seems like only yesterday that he was playing with Thomas the Tank Engines and watching Bear in the Big Blue House. Now, he's about to get his Learner's Driving Permit and start shaving!! Gah, I feel old!!

Until next time,

kCa

Shopping Extravaganza

Today I had an absolutely amazing day of shopping with my friend, cHs. We hoped over the Skyway Bridge to get to out local Outlet Mall in Ellenton. I had old birthday money burning a hole in my pocket and I really wanted to get rid of it.

Now, dear reader, I hope you don't think that all I do is shop. Quite contrary. I always feel like I'm on the go, but I've found that retail therapy is the medicine for a stressful day. Even if it's just window shopping, just being around such wonderful designers makes me feel like I'm on Cloud 9. Fashion equals my anti-drug.

Case in point, my outlet mall has a Saks Fifth Avenue Clearance store. Inside, this store has an amazing selection of high-end designers at jaw dropping prices. I often find myself aimlessly walking through the aisles of clothing, just brushing my fingers against the luxurious fabrics. If I find something that really strikes my attention, I try it on and appreciate that the item of clothing was probably worth a full summer of paychecks.

Today's little piece of bliss was an absolutely stunning number by Milly that made my knees weak. It had everything that a cocktail should have: lace, a bow, scallop trip. The only downside, just the whooping $550 price tag. YIKES!!

Afterwards, I drifted back to reality, but not for telling myself that somehow (someday) I would be  able to have a wardrobe that would make even snootiest of fashionistas jealous. Hey, a girl can dare to dream!!

"She turned her can'ts into cans and her dreams into plans."


Until next time,
kCa

Jack Rogers

Every prepster worth her salt knows that a closet stocked with Jack Roger's Navajo sandals is a must!! For the longest time, I only had one, lone white pair. They have served me well, but I never felt truly comfortable wearing them ALL year long. I find stark white shoes of any kind, especially sandals, to be way too summery. Then yesterday, my lonely white Jack Rogers were given a friend. They are lovely pair of platinum sandals that are easy-going and match everything in my closet!!

I also had the wonderful fortune of finding this darling Lilly Pulitzer halter number ON SALE!! For a mere $79 this Britt dress is now a member of my ever expanding Lilly collection. Do you want to know what the best part of this dress is? Believe it or not, it glows in the dark!! How amazing is that? I'm just itching to wear it at night so all of my friends can marvel!!

For this outfit to be complete, all I would have to do is snuggle up in a little cardigan (I'm thinking white) and I would be on my way.

Of course, two pairs of Jack Rogers sandals aren't enough for me. I know that my collection will be growing for years to come. What colors are next: Black, Pink, Nantucket Red? Only time will tell.

Outfit of the Day

Today was a very long grueling day out in the sun. And let me tell you, it was hot, HOT, HOT!! The silver lining of the day, my mum treated me to a mini shopping spree at our local Lilly store. Tomorrow I'll post my purchases, along with more information about my favorite shoes on the planet: Jack Rogers!!

Until next time,

kCa

That Perfect Song on the Radio

Summertime doesn't only mean no school and hot weather. It also is the time when a slew of new music. I'm partial to country music myself, so I thought I would share with you my favorites for the summer.

1) Amen by Edens Edge

Before a few weeks ago, I have never heard of this band. However, I can feel like they are going to have a bright and promising future. This song is just so catchy. Whenever it's on the radio, I find myself belting out the lyrics (oh, if only I could sing).

2) God Gave Me You by Blake Shelton

Blake Shelton already has so many amazing hits under his belt and this new song is likely to join them. I'm just a sucker for love songs. If someone sang or played this for me, my heart would probably be their's.

3) Hell on Heels by the Pistol Annies

Miranda Lambert's newest project will quickly move up the music charts. Their soulful vocals are reminiscent of the Dixie Chicks (who have always been a favorite). I can't wait to see what else these lovely ladies have in store for the Country Music World.

These are just a few of the many songs that will be played on my iPod. Some of my other favorites artists are:

The Band Perry

Billy Currington

Brad Paisley

Eli Young Band

Eric Church

Josh Turner

Keith Urban

Sugarland

What songs will you be playing this summer?

Until next time,

kCa

Outfit of the Day

With no boys in the house for the weekend, because aCj and Daddy went on a fishing trip, the girls remaining decided to go out on the town by having a nice girls-only dinner at Bahama Breeze. 

Afterwards we headed up the local Target (oh how I love this store)  for some light shopping. There I found this amazing pair of gold wedges for only $20. They make my legs look so amazing (and long), I can't wait to wear them!!

Until next time,

kCa

Beach Days

I admit it, I take my Florida beaches for granted. I know they are practically in my backyard, but I feel like I never have time to go. Then, when I do decide to go, the weather always a turn for the worst. 

Today was one of those days. Just as I was getting ready to leave for Honeymoon Island (my stomping grounds), it began to rain!! Although the day turned out to be a bust, I thought I would share a little ray of sunshine with y'all. And if you ever get to have a beach day of your own, make sure to pack your sunscreen!!

Until next time,

kCa

Outfit of the Day

As I look at my outfit now, I realize that I must have looked like a reverse traffic light to anyone who noticed me!! It was completely unintentional, but remember, you can always find inspiration in the strangest places!! And besides, this outfit was just so comfortable!! It got me through my last day of "Intro to Speech" class and a super hot few hours of coaching. Gosh!! I hope this heat wave ends soon!!

Until next time, 

kCa

Summer Reads

Books are the quietest and most constant of friends.

-Charles W. Eliot

I've always been a bookworm. Unfortunately, because of my very demanding schedule, my reading time has run away from me and I have a lot of catching up to do. That's one of my favorite things about summer. I'm able to just relax, open up a new book, and go to town. I have a long list of books that I want to read, but I know that they won't be going anywhere. Sooner or later, I'll be able to have time for them.

I'm about half way through with Decision Points by George W. Bush. You can quietly think what you want about the man, but you have to remember that he was our president and therefore deserves a great deal of respect. Even if you didn't agree with his political policy, it's always interesting to read up on the lives of such prominent historical figures. Maybe that's just the history nerd in me talking.  

Once I'm done with Decision Points, I'm not going to call it quits for the summer. I have a whole list of books that I want to take a swing at before going back to school.

House of Gucci

Bringing Home the Birken

The Secret of Chanel No. 5

The Help (I need to read it before the movies)

and, thanks to Let's Be Preppy, I want to catch up on the books by Dorothea Benton Frank. They sound like they are just up my alley.

What are you summer reads?

I'm always willing to add new books to my reading lists.

Until next time,

kCa

Outfit of the Day

Today, I didn't have the same hectic schedule as yesterday. So, I opted for a simple outfit: an over-sized "frocket tee" with tempo shorts. I know this is a staple for many a college girl, but it's always a crowd pleaser.

Until next time,

kCa

My Summer Must Haves

Living in the middle of the Sunshine State my entire life, I have become quite used to the cruel summer sunshine. However, I wouldn't be able to stand the heat without a few key pieces in my wardrobe.

1) Fishing Shirts

They aren't the most stylish shirts around, but fishing shirts, especially those made by Columbia, are definitely do their job keeping me cool while I run errands around town. They also come in the cutest colors, making them a perfect shirt for the summer time. However, they can cross over into early fall-time also. During the first few scorching months up in Tallahassee, I always throw on a shirt to stay cool while getting from class to class around campus.

2) A Great Hat

Having such dark hair, it sometimes feels like my hair is on fire! That's why I always wear either a wide brim hat, like this monogrammed wonder from Marley Lilly, or a baseball cap in an adorable pastel color, my favorite is this one from Southern Tide. It not only keeps your head cuter and cooler, but it also shields you from some of those awful UV rays.

3) Jelly Sandals

Remember, pool sandals don't just have to be just normal flip flops. That's the reason why I love these jelly sandals by Jack Rogers. They are so chic for when you're walking around the pool deck or strutting yourself on the beach. They also come in so many colors!! They have a little something for everyone's personal style.

4) Sunscreen

You can't have a fabulous summer if you are constantly turning into a giant lobster. Even if you don't usually burn from the hot sun you should still apply a sunscreen to protect your facial future. I'm honestly not a big fan of applying thick lotion to my face, that's why I use this powdered genius by Colore Science. It comes in either SPF 30 or 50 and has a nice citrus-like smell that comes out when you are in the sunlight.

Hope everyone is having a fun and safe summer!!!

What are your summer must haves?

Until next time,

kCa

Planners and Outfit of the Day

After a morning of Swim Practices and Speech Classes, I decided to take a short and sweet visit into South Tampa to do some "Power Shopping." Here, they have some great shops (Key Country, Kate McKenzie, kt jane to name a few) that would have even the most budget conscious prepster's knees weak.

For me, my wallet always struggles to survive as soon as I walk into The Pink Palm, the Tampa Bay area's Lilly Pulitzer specialists. If money was no object, I would probably buy everything in the entire store. However, I kept my cool and slipped out of the store with only the season's new planner (hot of the presses) in the shopping bag. 

This was no spur-of-the-moment buy. I've been looking forward to the new planner as soon as I say how adorable this year's patterns were. One of my quirks is that I'm basically addicted to my planner. My life would be madness without it. The extent of organization and highlighter found within my agenda planner can become down-right intimidating. 

That's why I adore LillyPulitzer's agendas. It has room for my insanity. 

After the relaxing, extremely mini shopping spree, it was time to head off to work: Swim coaching little five year old at the neighborhood pool. 

My outfit of the day reflected my hectic schedule. I need to look semi-cute, but still be comfortable, especially in the unforgiving summer Florida sun. 

Until next time,

kCa

The Adventure Begins

My name is kCa. I cannot wait to begin sharing my journey with you, but first I need to start by sharing a few things about myself.

- I'm a 20 year old Southern Belle who happens to be from the Sun Coast in Florida.

- I attend Florida State and am majoring in Early Childhood Education with a minor in Child Development.

- I have a younger brother, aCj, who I'm shaping to be the perfect Southern Gentleman.

- I'm currently single, but my West Highland Terrier, Bogie is the love of my life.

- I'm a constant shopper. My favorite stomping grounds are Lilly Pulitzer, Kate Spade, Ralph Lauren, J Crew, and Vineyard Vines.

That's all for now, but I will for sure continue later. 

Have a great evening!

Until next time,

kCa