Beautiful Blooms

It might have started as a rainy day but it is absolutely gorgeous out today! After all, April showers bring May flowers!  Hey, as long as it isn't snow am I right Northerners?

Nothing says "welcome" more than fresh flowers in your home. When it comes to my house I like to not fuss too much with arrangements and let the flowers for the most part do their own thing. It looks more natural and elegant that way. Also, I'd never want to host a party and have my floral's doing all the talking. I like for them to look graceful and add style to the decor, not take away from it. 

Everyone wants their beautiful blooms to last forever, at least I do. But you'll get more time out of them if you cut your stems on a diagonal and change your water daily. Another tip that I have recently heard is add a little vodka in your water and smash the tip of the stem. 

I thought it would be helpful for you to know what flowers are in season in the Spring so here are a few. Peonies, tulips, freesia, cherry blossoms, orchids, roses, and one of my most favorites the hydrangea. I love this one so much I had them everywhere at my wedding. This week in the Kilgore House I chose pretty pink-purple roses. When it comes to roses I like the stems short. It's also nice for dinner because you can see who is across from you. 

Isn't it wonderful that Spring is here?

Way Back Whimsy

As I write this I am watching How To Marry a Millionaire (Marilyn! Swoon!) and I am reminded of my deep love for the 50's and 60's era. Watching these fabulous actresses sit atop their rooftop patio drinking champagne in their circle skirts makes me truly wish I was alive back then. So all of this got me to thinking as to how much time as changed in so many ways. One of those things is manners. Isn't it amazing how little thinking of others has become acceptable? I think we all need a little work on our day to day manners. I am always looking for ways to better myself as a person both inside and out. In the Kate Spade book so appropriately titled "Manners" I came across 10 Gentle Reminders that I thought was a nice refresher.

1. Making others feel at ease is the essence of etiquette, yesterday and today. 

2. There are few words more elementary or more welcomed than please and thank you. 

3. Good moods are contagious. Hopefully, yours will be pleasantly catching. 

4. Be aware and considerate of personal space- physical, visual, and aural. 

5. Showing respect is a gift, one that costs nothing and is endlessly appreciated. 

6. Think of your tone of voice as a telegraph. To the listener, it speaks volumes. 

7. A short fuse does nothing but burn. Should you find yourself with one, steer clear of others.

8. Never underestimate the message that's sent by your poise and posture.  

9. Clothes count. Appropriate attire is not only respectful, its refreshing. 

10. Let common sense be your guide and graciousness be your goal.  

Now run along and enjoy your Friday, smile, and open the door for someone. 

Quick Organization

Being organized can be tough especially when you are constantly on the go. So here are a few "Fast Tips" to stay organized and start your week with a clear head.

1. At the start of your day make a small list of things you want to accomplish. I do this regularly and it really does make a big difference. It gives you a chance to prioritize.
2. Know what you are going to have for dinner Monday-Thursday. Personally this gives me so much clarity knowing what is going to be on the table that evening. That way there is no last minute running around finding a recipe.
3. This one might sound silly but make the bed every morning! I once read in a magazine to do this to start the day out right and believe me it works! When I forget to do this it makes an impact.
4. This is one I am constantly trying to achieve. Finish a task before starting a new one. By far I struggle with this on a daily basis, but I'm getting better.
5. Keep a calendar. MK and I use "Cozi" (www.cozi.com). Pink is me, Blue is MK, Orange is our company, and Green is all. We've used this for years and we absolutely love it. Keeps us busy folks very organized on a daily basis.

Now, go out there and seize the week and make it a wonderful one!