After a few stressful weeks working on the Avenue House and our day jobs, the trip we planned to Savannah, GA came just in the nick of time! Since Brian and I have always wanted to visit Savannah, we decided that my 30th birthday would be the perfect excuse for a little weekend getaway! There are already so many great guides out there on places to eat and things to do in Savannah, so I thought it would be fun to share the favorite spots we found for interior design! I love traveling and find so much design inspiration in new places. Since you gals and guys are design lovers as well, I thought you may find these places we explored as pretty as I do!
Budget Travels | A Day In Wilmington, NC
We celebrated our five year wedding anniversary back in June. Brian and I are not big gift people; we would both much rather have an experience than a possession. This being said, instead of giving presents or going out for an extravagant dinner, we opted for a mini adventure! Crazy as it may seem, in the 29 years of my Raleigh residency, I have never been to Wilmington, NC. For those not familiar with North Carolina, Wilmington is the closest coastal area from where I live - a quick two hour drive down the highway. Brian had never been either, so we started planning our day trip around this destination.
Fall | Travels
October is almost over and what a crazy month it has been. Trips to the Caribbean, the mountains, High Point, and the beach this weekend. Even though it has been busy, it is hard to complain. :) Here are a few photos of our recent travels
The view from my sister and brother-in-law's home in Saint John. I have no idea why they want to live here. ;)
Their fur baby, Oscar.
Driving up the Blue Ridge en route to the Myrtle House
A detour to the Lake James Cellars Winery. Their fruit-infused wines were amazing.
The last of my David Austin Glamis Castle roses.
And the Myrtle House... looking exactly the same on the outside. Luckily the inside is starting to improve!
Apple Hill Orchard | Travel
My parents wanted to make a trip to see the Myrtle House since they have never been, and we decided it would be the perfect day to visit an apple orchard. After factoring in timing logistics, we decided on the Apple Hill Orchard in Morganton, North Carolina. When I read on their website that they have homemade apple donuts AND apple cider slushies, I was sold.
The orchard is nestled in a quiet spot not too far from the highway in the foothills. It has the cutest little barn, store, and sprawling apple orchards.
My dad wasn't up to walking a whole lot that day, so we opted to view the grounds via tractor-pulled wagon. I mean, how else would you tour an apple orchard? ;) We had the nicest and most knowledgeable guide whose father bought the orchard back in the 1950s. The orchard originated in the 1880s, I believe.
The apples were oh so pretty on the trees. This orchard allows visitors to pick their own apples, or you can buy freshly picked ones from their store. We chose the pre-picked variety due to time constraints, but we are planning to come back next summer to pick some for ourselves. We even learned the proper method of picking, thanks to our guide. Apparently you are supposed to grasp the apple with your palm to twist to the side and snap it off. If you use your finger tips to hold, it will bruise the apple.
The part I think we were both secretly looking forward to the most were the baked goods. I have a serious sweet tooth, and these treats did not disappoint. The cider slushie was amazing on a warm day, and the apple glazed donut was not too sweet - just the way I like them.
I had an apple for breakfast this morning and it was amazing. Long story short, if you are in the Western part of NC, I would highly recommend this cute little orchard. It is a great place for kids to romp around as well!
Chicago | Travel
We are lucky to have some amazing friends. Two of said friends live in Chicago, and we had a fantastic time visiting them over Labor Day. These guys like to explore new places just like we do - by eating and walking... a LOT. :) We left the windy city with sore cheeks from laughing so hard. Thank you for being such gracious hosts, Wes and Katie!
This was round one of two of the macarons.... Can't get enough!
Beautiful hydrangeas in the most beautiful floral shop
Adorable window display
These colors... I mean...
If only I could get this chandelier on a plane...
<3
:)
Sweet Olive!
Boone, NC | Life
Our life as of late has been spent either working in Raleigh, or traveling three hours away to the Myrtle House. Needless to say, we were in need of a little getaway, so we spent last Saturday in Boone, NC for a little R&R.
First stop was the Moses Cone Manor. Brian planned this side-trip as a surprise, but sadly, the fog was SO intense, we could barely even make out the house. I guess they aren't called the Great Smokey Mountains for nothing! We were able to wander around the house and grounds for a few minutes before the rain got us, but we already have decided to go back when the weather is better. This house is stunning.
Further down the mountains, we found ourselves at the most relaxing vineyard. Grandfather Vineyard Winery is situated at the bottom of a rolling hill right alongside a babbling brook. We went for a tasting, and then purchased a bottle to enjoy by the water in the Adirondack chairs. Hands down, favorite part of the day.
It was nice to take a minute to relax and not think about work, floor plans, or budgets. Have you been able to take a relaxing trip recently?