Anna Spiro's Absolutely Beautiful Things

Christmas is over, and interior designer/blogger Anna Spiro has me already counting down the days until Spring. Her blog Absolutely Beautiful Things is an eye opening burst of color that resembles the energy of her native Australia. This year Anna launched her online store, and I can't stop adding items to my cart. I know we all could use a break from buying after this past month, so keep these on your wish list, or go ahead and splurge with that Christmas money from grandma.

Click here to browse the goods.

THAT'S HOT

I'm kinda lovin' this commercial and everyone in it. Va Va Voom!

Spice Up Your Christmas

Mexican Hot Chocolate


1 cup water
4 cups whole milk
1 1/3 cups chocolate chips
2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon chile powder
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
pinch of salt
mini marshmallows

In a large saucepan, combine all the ingredients and 1 cup water over medium heat, whisking constantly, until hot but not boiling, about 8 minutes (the mixture should smooth). Pour into 4 large mugs and enjoy!

To sassy up your hot chocolate add a coffee, chocolate, or cream liqueur.

Merry Christmas to Me: Design * Sponge at Home

I can now find all of my favorite design factoids compiled into one with one of my favorite bloggers and DIY expert, Grace Bonney's Design * Sponge at Home. So, I've treated myself this Christmas to a gift I've had my eye on since it debuted in September.

                                  

                                          More cravings: design, food, etc.

    Yum!

   Perfect

Death by sweets

Restaurant Buzz: Parlor Market

We walked in and instantly felt the need to say the password and whisper our drink orders. It wasn't 1930, but it had the feeling of a swanky speakeasy. Parlor Market had it all: ambiance, flavor, and Southern revival cuisine. I was overly content. Throw in a vintage champagne glass, and I'm smiling ear to ear.

 Parlor Market is a restaurant the exudes Southern culture with an emphasis on local Mississippi flavors and favorites, as well as a sophisticated menu that will have you wanting to stay for dessert every time (Oh, and it's worth it).

I am new to this downtown Jackson gem, but since then it has been awarded: Best New Restaurant in Mississippi, Most Innovative Menu, Best New Bar, Best Cocktails, and Best Chef, Craig Noone, who recently passed away, but you can still see it is the crew's mission to keep their dear friend's dream a reality.
 

 

 With it's dim lighting and bare wood you get the idea that you have walked into an underground haven for deliciousness, and then... it's confirmed! All your dreams come true in the form of a fried oyster salad and pork belly over Waffle House style hash browns.





Now, I would never forget to include their lovely libations.

I had the Satsuma:

• Cathead vodka -Mississippi's first legal distillery
• satsuma
• orange
• elderflower
• prosecco

 












Now stop by an enjoy, and if you're not a local then come and visit!

Secret Pocket Pillow

Christmas is right around the corner, and if your like me and have nieces, nephews, cousins, etc. in your life, then you know it's never too early to start thinking about what you can get those little ones during the gift giving season.

A great family friend and fellow Daltonian/UA grad, Elizabeth Rakis is apart of the team behind the Secret Pocket Pillow .

Anytime I'm with Miss B I end up finding my cell phone, lip gloss, and other small items hidden in her bed, socks, and there is no telling where else. Now kids can store all their goodies in their very own decorative and playful pillow. Check out the different styles from the Secret Pocket Pillow.