Dream Designs

Our living and dining rooms (which are open plan and flow into each other) are... empty.  Literally.  When we moved in to our home (four years ago) we focused on furnishing our upstairs game room and completing the back living room, where we spend almost all our time. 

The front, while it was always there to be done, kept being put on the back burner... although we did paint the walls (Jamestown Blue from the Benjamin Moore Historic Color Collection... quite appropriate for me, ha) and purchased fabulous Pottery Barn curtains.  Then CB arrived this past summer (her room obviously took priority... and looks amazing in my opinion, ha)... and put any thoughts of decorating completely out of our minds! 

A few weeks ago we started talking about what to do with the space, knowing bookcases are a must-have feature... both for their functionality (we have a boat load of books which need a home) and beautiful aesthetics... I found these amazing photos on the House Beautiful site... I cannot even describe how much I love all these!

And... as a sidenote... if I did not have to share a home with a boy (ha)... I think these are fabulous!

Also, we watched Something's Gotta Give for the first time this week... and I fell instantly in love with Diane Keaton's character's Hamptons beach house!

So beautiful... Meg Ryan's apartment in You've Got Mail has always been my favorite... but I could certainly live here!... and such a good movie, too!  I am not normally a fan of Jack Nicholson (which honestly is why I avoided this film for so long) but it was on TV, we got sucked in... and it was so worth watching!  If you have not seen it you should :  )

Anyway... not sure my house (at least this one) will ever look like any of these... but it is a wonderful thing to dream about!

Being Preppy: A Regional Guide

Happy Sunday!  KMS over at Town and Country Prep posted this earlier today and I thought it was too good not to re-post (with a small addition of my own)... I hope she does not mind!  According to her findings, there are different types of "preppy" with regional characteristics.  Let's see where we all fall :  )

The East Coast Die-Hard Preppy

These are the preps you find in areas like New England (such as Boston).  Think of the Kennedys and Vasser, Yale, or Boston University.  Favorites brands include Polo, J.Crew, Vineyard Vines, CK Bradley, or the many small shops in the area that sell preppy clothes.  These preps wear pants with whale prints of madras shorts during summer.  Nantucket, Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, and Maine are East Coast Preppy haunts.

The West Coast Hippie Preppy

You can find this kind of prep in the San Francisco Bay area.  They love classic clothes but the look is comfortable and lived in.  The clothes are geared towards the year-round 70 degree weather.  The look is often cotton sweaters, jeans, chinos, walking shorts, clogs or Birkenstocks, and arts and crafts accessories.  They drive old VWs or Jeep Cherokees with PBS or KQED stickers on the bumpers or windows.  West Coast Preppy haunts include Sausalito, Marin, Napa, Halfmoon Bay, or the Monterrey beaches.  West Coast Prep schools include Stanford, University of San Francisco, UCSF, Golden Gate, St. Ignatius, and Woodside.

The Cosmopolitan Metro Preppy

You can find these preps in major metropolitan cities like New York or Los Angeles.  The Metro Preps like updated classics.  Their style is sometimes called fashionably conservative.  These preps can shop in stores like Banana Republic, Gap, or Ann Taylor.  They are the more internationally travelled of all the preps.

The Southern Country Preppy

You can find them in Southern states like Virginia, Maryland, and the Carolinas.  Country preps tend to be more outdoor types.  Favorite items of clothing include barn jackets and duck boots.  Patagonia, Lands End and L.L. Bean are common brands but they also buy Polo or J.Crew.  Country Preps are very much into equestrian sports or hunting.  You can find them hunting in Ashburn or riding in Middleburg and in the summers they go to Virginia Beach, Nags Head, or The Outer Banks.  Country prep schools include Altamont, Westminster, Harpeth Hall, or boarding schools such as Woodberry Forest, Baylor, Foxcroft, or Madiera.

The Traditionalist Preppy

This type of prep is very much into tradition.  They are as Old School as Old School can get.  They wear their clothes according to strict rules of dress.  For examples, pants must be cuffed to an inch and a half.  No more, no less.  They are also the more formal of all of the preppies.  These preps will wear seer sucker suits during the summer or full regatta clothing when sailing.  If these preps had a choice of schools it would be a British school like Oxford, Cambridge, or Eton in the UK.

The Classic Preppy

These are the most common of all the preps.  They just love anything that is classic and get their influence from all the above.

The Texas Preppy

AND... because this is LoneStarPrep... I have to add what I consider a few quirks of being a prep in Texas!  Texas Preps certainly encompass most of the descriptions above... but we have a few of our own things, too!  Texas Preps even have their own characteristics within Texas... don't forget, our state is almost 800 miles long!  The preppy state of Connecticut would fit into Texas almost 50 times! So in addition in what you have already read... here we go!

First up... cowboy boots.  Everyone has them, including the preps.  Ralph Lauren is a required brand and one cannot be without classic khaki shorts.  Gatherings always include a variety of domestic and imported beer and country music is prevalent simply because you live in Texas.  While topsiders and loafers are certainly top choices for footwear, flip flops are a must-have because no one wants their feet covered in our ridiculously steamy weather... brands to purchase include Reef, J.Crew, and Havaiana.  Pearl earrings from James Avery are a necessity.  Ponytails with thin bands (sans ribbons and bows) are preferred.  Recreational sports vary by the area of the state in which you live.  Texas preps summer on the East Coast because it is too hot to stay here (although if you do choose to stay here the Hill Country is the place to be).  Being understated is key, which can be very difficult in the Land of Everything is Bigger (with Even Bigger Hair).

So... what kind of preppy are you?

Texas bits aside I would say I am a Classic Preppy with a side of Traditionalist... The Hubs is English, afterall, and I have been sporting my Oxford tee all afternoon :  )

Happy Texas Independence Day (The One With the Chicken Enchilada Recipe)

"Texas is a state of mind.  Texas is an obsession.  Above all, Texas is a nation in every sense of the word". -- John Steinbeck



On March 2, 1836, the Texas Declaration of Independence was signed at Washington-on-the-Brazos, a bold move in the territory's quest for independence from Mexico.  Written by George Childress, the document was signed by 59 delegates at Independence Hall, a mere four days prior to the Texian defeat at the Battle of the Alamo in San Antonio.  Although the war would still see battles at Goliad and San Jacinto, March 2nd claimed Texas a free republic.  Texas remained an independent country until its annexation in 1845.

Two summers ago, my family and I visited the Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site... here are some of my photos!  It was a beautiful, quiet location, chock full of history and amazing wildflowers.  Enjoy!

In honor of Texas Independence Day, here is my chicken enchilada recipe, admittingly stolen from the Campbell's Quick and Easy Recipes cookbook... along with a photo of mine from last week :  )  (Yes, I see the humor in posting a Mexican recipe on this post, ha)

Here is what you need...

10 ounces of shredded chicken (you could probably use chunks if you prefer)

1 1/2 cups of grated Cheddar cheese (I prefer medium to mild)

1 can chopped green chilies (optional if you want a bit more zing)

1 small white onion, chopped (I usually use 1/2 of one)

1 can enchilada sauce (I use Gebhardt's although it is very hard to find in North Texas, try H-E-B in Burleson unless you are fortunate enough to live south of Waco... if you live outside of Texas you are probably out of luck)

8 six-inch corn tortillas (I use the red ones when I can find them, otherwise prefer yellow over white)

Shredded lettuce, sour cream, and diced tomatoes for toppings (optional... but are these really?)

Now that you have all your ingredients...

1.  In a medium bowl, combine chicken, one cup of cheese, chilies, and onions

2.  In botton of 3-quart oblong baking dish, spread 1/2 can enchilada sauce and set aside

3.  Fill enchiladas with 1/3 cup of the chicken mixture, roll tortilla, and place in baking dish seam down (DO NOT forget to warm your tortillas prior to rolling!)

4.  Pour the remaining 1/2 can enchilada sauce over the enchiladas and sprinkle 1/2 cup of cheese on top (I love Cheddar way too much to only use 1/2 cup... so I actually grate more over them)

5.  Cover (use foil or dish cover) and bake for 25 minutes at 350 degrees... top with your choice of extras!

Colonial Architecture in Texas (LSP Series)

Earlier this month I posted how there would be a series of blogs highlighting the New England lifestyle deep in the heart of Texas... here is the first installment!

Texas colonial architecture is usually synonymous with Spanish styles, thanks to the colonization of the area by Spain (as well as the French) at the same time England was spreading its empire along the East Coast.  Spanish colonial architecture is evident throughout the state, particularly in the form of the Spanish missions in South Texas.  However, even though Texas was not colonized by the English, their design influences are without any doubt part of the architectural landscape here.

Colonial architecture is defined by styles used prior to the American Revolution and the most prominent style was Georgian, named for the King Georges who ruled England (the most notable for our history was King George III who famously imposed "taxation without representation" on the American colonists following the French and Indian War, sparking the War for Independence).  The first example of Georgian architecture in America is the Wren Building on the College of William and Mary campus in Virginia, the second oldest university in the country; construction began in 1695 and was completed in 1700.

Here in Texas, Georgian architecture popped up during the Georgian Revival period (also known as Colonial Revival) during the late 1800s and early 1900s, as part of a movement to link modern buildings to our British heritage.  Here are some examples of what would be commonplace in New England... in the Lone Star State!

The Texas Federation of Women's Clubs (Austin)

Photo courtesy of http://www.commons.wikimedia.org/

Thistle Hill (Fort Worth)
Photo courtesy of Historic Fort Worth, Inc.

Scottish Rite Dorm at the University of Texas (Austin)

Photo courtesy of http://www.wikipedia.org/

Fondren Science Hall at Southern Methodist University (Dallas)

Photo courtesy of Southern Methodist University Science Faculty

Thomas J. and Mary Donoghue House (Houston)

Photo courtesy of http://www.petermansbendel.com/

Georgian architecture can also be seen in historic homes such as San Antonio's Monte Vista neighborhood, Fort Worth's Colonial neighborhood, Dallas' Highland Park and Houston Heights.

Top 10 Movies

The past few weeks have seen several bloggers posting their Top 10 Movies... seemed like a fun thing to do so here are mine.  Note: Only the first three are in order... the others are hard to rank!  OH... and a little LoneStarPrep fun fact... I don't really do remakes and I don't do sequels.

You've Got Mail

I. LOVE. THIS. MOVIE.  When the first scene opened and the dog's name was Brinkley (my maiden name) I knew instantly this movie would be my favorite of all time, ha!  Seriously, I cannot even begin to describe the emotional connection I have to this movie... New York City, children's books, sweet, clever, funny love story... nothing better.  I remember seeing it twice in the theater when it debuted in '98.  When The Hubs and I went to NYC for our honeymoon I even made him walk around the Upper West Side searching for the storefront used for The Shop Around the Corner... we found it and I proudly took pics!  We even visited Books of Wonder, the children's bookstore used as the inspiration for Kathleen Kelly's shop.  I will never tire of this movie!

Shag

I saw this movie with my best friend the year it opened in the theater ('89)... we talked my parents into renting it for our slumber party and, watching it now, ten-year-olds probably should not have been viewing it (ha!)... but it started my love of shag dancing, colonial architecture, beach parties, and the name Caroline :  )  Thankfully, The Hubs purchased me a DVD copy so I can watch it as often as I wish... when he is not around, ha!

Sweet Home Alabama

I am sure this movie is on every Southern Girl's favorite list and with good reason... being propsed to in Tiffany's, down-home hospitality, and Josh Lucas in jeans... need I say more?  Such a cute movie with the fabulous Reese Witherspoon using her real accent... think I may pop in the DVD now!

National Treasure

LOVE this movie!  I found it be a very clever weaving of history, mystery, and action... and it was great how my students knew so much about U.S. History thanks to Nicholas Cage!  I was thrilled to see such an amazing tour through some of our country's most historic places, all while trying to save the Declaration of Independence!  Riley is my favorite character, despite the fact he is dating an Olsen Twin in real life :  )

The Parent Trap

What is better than a movie with Haley Mills?  How about two Haley Mills'?  I adored this movie as a child and literally watched it every Sunday for several years in a row.  I still enjoy watching it from time to time although I think I burned myself out prior to my teen years!  I always thought Camp Inch would be a fun place to go :  )

Troop Beverly Hills

Another childhood favorite, everyone wanted to be a member of Troop Beverly Hills!  After seeing this movie the only place I wanted to live was Southern California and I wished Girl Scout troops in Texas had been as awesome :  )  I learned about Rodeo Drive, The Beverly Hills Hotel, and fondue from this film and have the theme song, Make It Big, downloaded on my iPod... cause I am a nerd.

Clue

My favorite board game turned 80s whodunnit classic... a recipe for success!  I saw this one as a child, too, although I was (hmm, am?) afraid of the dark and remember watching it during the day in case I got scared... ha!  I still think the rain in the beginning is creepy and certainly enjoy it more as an adult (the dialog obviously makes much more sense).

Summer Magic

Another Haley Mills favorite, I adore this movie.  Love it.  Set in New England, it is the story of a widow and her children who are forced to move from Boston to a small town in Maine following the passing of their father,  chronicling their adventures in their new home.  The classic Disney movies are so marvelous... I love the stories, the coloring of the scenery and wardrobes, the music to which you can sing along, and of course the happy endings.  Highly recommend, especially for young girls.

Mona Lisa Smile

Despite the many controversies surrounding the authenticity of this film in regards to the education at Wellesley College, I find this movie to be a very interesting look at the role of women in the 50s and the story of art history lecturer Katherine Watson is very intriguing... accurate or not.  The clothes are amazing, the scenery is gorgeous (filmed at both Wellesley and Yale, in addition to a few other locations), and the film really transports you to another place and time.

Apollo 13

Tom Hanks is my favorite actor of all-time, and, if you had not already noticed, I love history so this one was an instant hit with me!  The Hubs and I watch this one often and I still get chills, my breath almost stopping to see if the astronauts will return from the moon.  I always cry for Jim Lovell not being given another chance to walk on the moon... breaks my heart.

Other favorites I could easily include: Sex and the City, Legally Blond, How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, The Emperor's Club, Thirteen Going on 30, Charades, The Truth About Charlie, The Holiday, and The Italian Job.

What are your favorite films?  Would love to see your Top 10 Movies!

Celebrating Presidents' Day With Spaghetti

Sending lots of birthday wishes to the ultimate Founding Father, George Washington, and (arguably) the greatest president in U.S. History, Abraham Lincoln!  As we honor these two men today let us be reminded of all the presidents who have governed our land... their successes and failures... and remember holding this office truly brings the most challenging responsibilities imaginable. 

Even though I was (am) an American History teacher, I do not plan on lecturing about their terms in the Oval Office... but being a history buff, I also could not pass up today without a look at my favorite presidents!  Who are yours?

Washington: Commander of the Continental Army and Father of Our Country

John Adams: The Well-Intentioned but Often Misunderstood Leader

Lincoln: The Great Emancipator, Known for Being Ridiculously Tall

FDR: The People's President and Amazing Public Speaker

Kennedy: American Royalty, Undeniable Prep

George W. Bush: Had Some Issues in Office but Looks Great in Jeans

All photos from www.visitingdc.com

While most people dread Monday to roll around again it is actually my favorite day of the week... because it is spaghetti night at home!  Yes, we have spaghetti and marinara sauce, leaf lettuce salad with blue cheese dressing (Thousand Island for The Hubs), and buttery garlic bread every Monday night... it is comforting... and does not involve any planning which is even better!

In addition to a delightfully delicious meal, Mondays also bring The Bachelor and Castle, which make the evening even more exciting!  Today is grocery shopping day so maybe I will pick up a birthday dessert to accompany our pasta... I am sure George and Abe would appreciate the thought :  )

SO... there was this craving...

Classic Toll House chocolate chip cookies, stacked on my grandmother's vintage glass platter, circa 1940s... yum!