Savannah, Georgia

IMG_0388{Mercer Williams House on Whitaker Street}

IMG_0376{Spanish Moss hanging from trees}

Getting away for a long weekend can be one the most refreshing vacations for those of us who lead extremely busy lives. When life appears to be closing in and your nerves are frayed, now is the time for the perfect getaway. The beauty of these short respites is that they can be taken frequently, and whenever necessary. To start my stylish getaway we are going to Savannah, Georgia for two days and then onto Charleston, South Carolina for an additional two.

IMG_0359{The Pirates’ House}

On Thursday morning a few of us took off for Savannah, Georgia to partake in a bit of history, gracious southern living, delicious food and a lot of fun! We stayed in the historical district of the city a few blocks from the Savannah River, which lent access to all of the cultural sites.  First on our list was stopping for lunch at The Pirates’ House, which is located on one of the most significant spots in Georgia because it is here that the Trustees Garden, the first experimental garden in America is located. The small building adjoining the Pirates’ House was erected in 1734 and is said to be the oldest house in the state.

The buffet was a wonderful inroad to the delicacies we were to taste while in Savannah; collard greens, fried okra, sweet potatoes, macaroni & cheese, and the fried chicken and tilapia were all absolutely delicious! Dessert was a Key Lime Pie and Banana Pudding.

IMG_0402{The Armstrong House on Bull Street}

IMG_0407{Forsyth Park Fountain}

IMG_0447{The Owens-Thomas House on Abercorn Street}

IMG_0457IMG_0449{Garden at the Owens-Thomas House}

Next we were off to see the historic homes of the city, which are dotted between oak canopied streets that are surrounded by churches and unique shops. The architecture of these genteel landmarks are a wonderful sampling of Georgian, Federal, Greek Revival and Victorian Regency, which gives a focus on the styles of 18th and 19th century America. Even the cathedrals’ range from colonial to medieval architecture with intricate accents.

IMG_0446{Beignets’ from Huey’s on E. River Street}

Savannah has a great many tastes similar to that of New Orleans; we sampled pralines, okra gumbo and Po-Boys made with shrimp instead of oysters.

IMG_0440{Savannah River Bridge}

The Historic Savannah Foundation was started by a small group of women (seven to be exact), who preserved many of these beautiful homes and kept them from being demolished. Most of these estates have been renovated or restored to be museums, inns or homes to the families who have purchased them. It is truly wonderful to be able to see and experience such living history.

K

Stylish Friends

IMG_1608{Roses from Heath garden}

Salute to all our stylish friends!!! I have so many, each of whom are talented, creative and most importantly original not only in their appearance, but in their thinking. Today I would like to focus on a special acquaintance, a girlfriend that I visit regularly for beauty tips, techniques with tasty recipes and the overall sharing of life’s trials and tribulations. I have known Quy my entire adult life and over the years we have been through hell and high water, but through it all she remains one of the most beautifully unaffected people I know both inside and out. She has exquisite taste in fashion, a love of clothes, plus a real passion for accessories.

IMG_0343{Manolo Blahnik heels on left and the tote, belt and shoes on right are Emporio Armani}

I stopped by her home yesterday for my usual dose of influential ideas, and there were some new items she wanted to share from a recent shopping expedition. Quy is savvy and a very sophisticated shopper, one day I must post about her technique, which is truly an experience!!!

Upon arriving at her home there is always a platter of delicious fruits on the table, which is a warm and heart felt gesture. Yesterday there was an assortment of kiwi and grapes, and sometimes she will serve a delicacy that is being prepared in the kitchen so, that I can taste her delicious home cooking before we begin our conversation.

She had lovely boxes strewn from various boutiques beside our chairs so, that we could take our time and rummage through shoes, handbags, scarves and dresses!!! There is nothing like a dose of feminine beauty to put anyone into a stylishly fabulous frame of mind. Together we had fun thinking up outfits to transition from summer into fall, then tried on the elegant heels and thought of the best way to use the Armani tote for traveling.

IMG_0328{Salvatore Ferragamo slippers}

When I sit with her I am constantly jotting down notes so, that I may refer to her brilliant comments and ideas later from home. And if she shares a recipe, you can be sure I will test it later in the week. I always come away from her abode just that much closer to true beauty; especially as we learn and share ideas that each of us can incorporate into our daily routines. I suppose that is the definition of true friendship, the exchanging of ideas and mutual support, which is given without question!

Thank you for being you and all that you do!!!!

K