Bucket List Item- Willie Nelson

I have loved Willie Nelson for as long as I can remember.  My Papa used to sing "Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain" and "Red-Headed Stranger" to me when I was little.  So often we hear a song and it brings us back to another time; Willie Nelson always conjures up the fondest of memories for me.  I have been dreaming of seeing him live.  It was announced, this winter, that Willie would be preforming at Greenfield Lake this May.  Tickets sold out in four minutes, but luckily a friend of mine scored two.  

RX

Bethany came to town Friday night, without the kids.  We haven't had a night alone in over a year.  We decided to go out on the town.  We headed to RX, my favorite farm to table restaurant, located on Castle St. 

The menu changes daily, always keeping things interesting.

We started with the Buffalo Pig Ears and Soft Shell Crab with Beef Carpaccio.  You can only get soft shell crab for a short period of time, so it was not to be missed.  We devoured both dishes and set our eyes on our main course.

RX has some great signature cocktails and an extensive wine list.

Bethany ordered the fish, which came with clams and shrimp.  It was really delicious. 

I ordered the steak, which was served on a bed of mushroom risotto.  The steak was perfectly cooked. 

Travel Attire

When traveling, it is important to be comfortable, yet chic.  Sometimes this can be a daunting task.  I always want to look put together, but when walking and exploring, comfort is also important.  I find that rompers, sun-dresses, and long maxi skirts are always a great look.  Also, a cross-body bag is a great option because it frees up your hands. Add in a cute accessory, like this hat.

J.Crew Romper, Michael Kors Bag, Tory Burch Flip Flops, Panama Hat

I lived in this skirt when traveling around Spain.  It is Tommy Bahama and super breezy.  I wore it twice, switching up the tank and accessories the second time. 

 

Niche

My friend, Katie, turned 34 this week and we headed to Niche, a tapas restaurant located near Carolina Beach, to celebrate.  This was my first time at the restaurant, which is located in a shopping center.  However, the back patio completely camouflages this fact, creating a beautiful atmosphere.  We had a great time, filled with awesome sangria and lots of laughs.

Deviled Eggs

I love deviled eggs.  My brother-in-law's father, Bob, used the make the best deviled eggs!  He knew the importance of a topping, the step people often neglect when making deviled eggs.  Ever since having his deviled eggs, I really haven't wanted them any other way.  

Ingredients: 

8 large eggs

Mayo

Yellow Mustard

Salt/Pepper

Bacon- chopped into "Bits"

Chives- chopped

Making it happen: 

Fry bacon, let cool, and chop into small bits.  Also, chop your chives into thin bits.  Set aside.

Pour cold water over 8 large eggs.  Bring to a boil.  Once boiling, remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes.  Crack each egg, slice down the middle, and remove the yolk.  To the yolks, had a tablespoon of yellow mustard and 1/4 cup of mayo.  Add S&P to taste.  Fill each egg halve with the yolk mixture.  Sprinkle each egg with bacon and chives.  Arrange on a beautiful platter and try to take a picture before they are gobbled up. 

Lady In Red

I scored this number last summer in DC.  Zara is a great, budget friendly store.  When looking to try out a new trend, but not wanting to financially invest in the item, Zara is the place to look.  

Although I don't normally gravitate toward color, red is the exception to that rule.  I dig red! The great thing about this dress is that it is all "business in the front, party in the back".  

See, it is so much better from the back.  

Celebrating - Mom, Mexico, and Derby Day

My mom came to town the last weekend in April.  It was so nice to have her visiting and for us to get some one-on-one time.  She arrived Saturday afternoon and we ran down to the fish market to grab some seafood.  She adores the shrimp scampi w/ linguine that I make and we decided to have that for a late lunch.  This dish never disappoints.  

We spent the rest of the evening watching Newsroom re-runs.  We agree that it was one of the best shows on TV and are equally disappointed that it is now off the air.  

Sunday morning we did brunch at San Juan Cafe and hit up a movie.  She had taken Monday off work, so she was able to stay Sunday evening as well.   We snacked and played rummy and scrabble into the night.  Although I didn't make it home for Mother's Day, I was so grateful for us to have the weekend together.  I am one of the lucky ones- my mom has morphed into one of my greatest friends. 

I had my friend, Claire, over for Cinco de Mayo last week.  I made these enchiladas, Chrissy Tiegen's Mexican Street Corn, and my version of a jalapeno margarita.  

Poor Gidget had a grooming appointment on Friday.  I had let too much time pass and she ended up shaved.  She was not pleased and I am having a hard time taking her seriously without her hair. 

Although a little late to the game, I finally read this book on the beach this weekend.  It was worth the hype and especially funny for a private school teacher. 

Saturday afternoon, after a day at the beach, I threw an impromptu Derby party, complete with Mint Juleps.