robincharmagne

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graft – Sunday Brunch

January 14, 2019 by robincharmagne 4 Comments

Hello pretties,

A good Sunday afternoon includes brunch! So when your sorority sister, says come to brunch, you say I’m on the way. I had the pleasure of brunch at graft, right outside of Atlanta in Grayson, Georgia. Now this spot was quite a haul from my house, a one hour and five minute trek. And, needless to say, I worked up an appetite. As I drove up to this little house, my first impression was oh this is cute and unpretentious, this food is going to be good.

Easy parking in the rear of the house and it’s free. I later discovered this home is one of the oldest in Grayson. You sort of walk up on the porch adorned with rustic decor which leads to the entrance of the restaurant. A pleasant gentlemen seated us and even moved us closer to a window when we requested to change tables.

graft is a farm-to-table restaurant that partners with local farms to provide fresh ingredients. Of course we love that.

Our server suggested we start with the trio of deviled eggs with beet, house pickles and jalapeño jam. It was a little sweet, a little tangy, and crunchy and just the right portion for a starter.

For my brunch entree, I chose the breakfast burger which is a biscuit with a fried egg, carmelized onions, jam and a side of fries. I can’t believe I ate the whole thing, savory and full of flavor.

For desert, the server recommended the banana bread. The brown sugar butter was sweet but not overly sweet, a nice complement. It was so good, I took a piece home a late night snack with a good cup of coffee.

It is a rare occassion that everything you order on a menu is just scrumptious, but I savored every bite. We even got a chance to talk with the Chef/Owner about the menu and working with local farmers, she was clearly passionate about the food being prepared and presented at graft. It was well worth the drive and I highly recommend this restaurant for Sunday Brunch.

How far would you drive for a good meal?

robincharmagne

Filed Under: Food, Life Tagged With: brunch

More Or Less – Ikat Pillows

January 8, 2019 by robincharmagne 2 Comments

Hi Pretties,

More or Less was a favorite feature here on the blog and I am excited to bring it back!! Now, we all want our homes to be havens that make us happy every time we step through the front door. And, the best part is a fat bank account is not necessary to have the home space you love. Today I’m sharing two pillows that are similar in style but one is at a lower price point.

Style Points

  • Square shape
  • Cotton fabric; dry clean only
  • black/white color scheme
  • Similar print pattern
  • 1 inch size variance
  • $22 price variance

For an easy refresh, just add pillows. These are two solid options if you were completing another color scheme with black/white. Check out how these pillows accent different color schemes.

Photo by Caitlin Wilson Design
Photo by – Anna Dhillon Design

The pillows add pattern and color to these rooms, somewhat acting as a neutral. Also, depending on your budget you could choose the $$$more or $less price point and still have a perfect room accent.

Have you updated a room with pillows and did you go more or less in price?

robincharmagne


Filed Under: Home, Life and Style Tagged With: pillows

REBOOT – Word For 2019

January 7, 2019 by robincharmagne 24 Comments

Image:via

Hi pretties,

Another year all fresh and new, don’t you just love it? Whatever happened or did not happen in the prior year does not matter because we can start anew with these 365 days. Some folks just tweak or improve on what they did last year and some people like me are rebooting, yep restarting.

Sometimes you need to just shut down and then start over. With the unforeseen events of 2018, I did shut down. After my twin brother passed away, I did not do a whole lot of anything, except work and that was because like everyone else, I need to earn a living. Not much shopping, dining, traveling, crafting, sorority, nothing. I did not leave the house very often, nothing interested me and I settled into a deep sadness.

Of course I went to grief counseling which helped tremendously, but I still had anger towards God for taking my brother. I decided He and I needed to have a meeting. In order to hear from God, I think you need to be close to nature, so I visited the mountains of the Arizona desert (travel post coming soon). Beautiful setting to walk each morning while having this important conversation. I cried, I laughed, I yelled, and then I got quiet. I asked why. I wanted to know what is the purpose of so much death and dying in one family? As I looked around I heard God say, that is the circle of life, you live and you die. It is really that simple. I shed the anger and thanked God for each day and said it is time to get back to life.

Image: personal, The Phoenician, Scottsdale, Arizona

After my trip, I was much more accepting of the “whys” of everything and I decided I would start over in 2019. But then a little fear creeped in, until I ran across a series of videos about the life of Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel, or Coco Chanel as we all know this icon of fashion. Did you know she restarted her fashion house at age 71? And, today, Chanel is still a profitable and sought after brand. If she could do it in her 70’s then so could I. It is never too late for a fresh start.

I am glad to be back in the saddle and doing the things I love, like writing blog posts and I am ready to share more fashion inspiration, home decor ideas, and travel topics. I am excited about 2019 and everything it holds. This reboot is going to be epic!

What is your word for 2019? Have you ever started over?

View Words for 2018 and 2017!

robincharmagne

Filed Under: Blogging, Personal Tagged With: Monday Musing, Word of the year

Memory Keeping

November 2, 2018 by robincharmagne 29 Comments

Messages_in_metal_jewelry_robincharmagne
#ad-I was provided this product by Messages in Metal; all the opinions are my own.

Hi pretties,
It has been some time since I blogged and I am so happy to be back today with a very personal post. Sadly, over the last 2 years, my family dynamic has changed with the passing of my Sister and my Dad. I would say 2018 has proven to be quite challenging, but even those words do not seem adequate with the passing of my Twin Brother earlier this year. Of course I miss them all terribly, but the passing of my sister and brother hit me especially hard. The three of us could not have been more different – John the tech guy, me the goody two shoes, and Nickey the rebel! We shared a love of anything with wheels and science fiction and defended each other fiercely against anyone, including our parents. I have so many funny memories of the three of us that will live on in my heart, but when Messages in Metal reached out to me, I discovered a very special way to keep them close.

Messages in Metal

This is a Montana based company that makes personalized jewelry to celebrate all the special moments and special people in our lives. These metal pieces are crafted in .925 silver and come with a chain. Some pieces are offered in gold plating and with beautiful Swarovski gemstones. I chose the infinity design with the names of my brother and sister.

messages_in_metal_robincharmagne

Simple packaging in classic black and white.

message_in_metals_box_robincharmagne

Black velvet box that securely holds your pendant

messages_in_metal_personalize-_robincharmagne

Absolutely perfect – Infinity Necklace in .925 Sterling Silver


messages_in_metal_names_robincharmagne

Happy, together again!

I am so happy with my pendant, it shipped quickly after ordering. It is very well made, feels light but is substantial. The Messages in Metal website has many options in the size, shape, and type of pendant. This is a perfect way for me to honor my siblings and keep them close to my heart. Please visit the website to see all of their unique pieces.

Do you wear personalized jewelry?

robincharmagne

Filed Under: Accessories, Jewelry, Life and Style, Personal Tagged With: jewelry

Solis – Staycation

July 13, 2018 by robincharmagne 25 Comments

staycation-robincharmagne
Hi pretties,
Getting a little personal on the blog today! Over the past few months, my twin brother has been seriously ill and I was just burned out physically and mentally. I felt so drained from the ripping and running and just the thought of losing my brother. But thank God, he turned a corner and when he did, I took a staycation to do absolutely nothing. The A has so many nice hotels in all categories from budget to 5 star so it was pretty easy to find a spot for the weekend, I chose Solis.

Solis

Solis is in a prime location near the airport, making it super convenient for travelers. This is a unique hotel and the first in the United States. It is part of the Porsche Experience with magnificent views of the Porsche Center located right next door. That was the appeal for me! A luxury hotel with luxury cars, winning combo.

Solis-entryway-robincharmagne
solis-porsche-robincharmagne

This is a luxury hotel with a laid back feel. The lobby is sleek but not over done. Adjacent to the front desk is a Porsche themed lounge area.
solis-lobby-robincharmagne
lobby2-solis-robincharmagne.com

I was welcomed from the valet to the front desk. As a matter of fact, the front desk agent walked me to my room and explained the features of the room and hotel. But he wasn’t stuffy at all, very friendly and put me at ease. I hate I didn’t get his name!

solis-me-robincharmagne

I love when rooms have these welcome messages!


solis-room1-robincharmagne

Very subtle car themed room that is not overly done or cartoonish

I know a room is good when I want to take some features home, this wood wall and bath tiles

This space was so relaxing with a bird’s eye view of the track! Super exciting to watch folks enjoying the Porsche Experience.

Solis-track-robincharmagne

Mesmerizing! Definitely driving on my next visit!

The bed had a million pillows and I slept like a baby, feeling refreshed. I was soooo excited it was The Royal Wedding Day, which I totally forgot. But man, I ordered room service and chilled watching this beautifully loving and diverse ceremony, I shared my thoughts here.

Solis-bed-robincharmagne

That Royal Wedding was the truth and my breakfast was yummy

Final Thoughts

I highly recommend Solis for its unique space, friendly staff, doable luxury price point, and amazing views of the Porsche track and plane landings. It’s close to the downtown and the airport. Oh they also have two acclaimed restaurants Apron and Overdrive with the rooftop bar. I’m ready for my second visit to Solis.

A Staycation was on the birthday list, maybe I’ll go back and take a Porsche for spin! Do you have a favorite local hotel?

robincharmagne

Filed Under: Health, Style, Tourism Tagged With: hotel review, Solis

5 Things To Do For Your Birthday – Monday Musing

July 2, 2018 by robincharmagne 30 Comments

unique-birthday-ideas-robincharmagne

Hi pretties,
It is a new month, but more importantly, it is my birthday month….LOLOL But seriously, I was thinking of what to do for my bday besides the tried and true dinner with friends. Of course I love good conversation over a good meal with friends, but I was thinking what else is there to do on this special day? So, here are 5 experiences to try solo or with friends. And, these ideas generally are not all that expensive but still a whole lotta fun!

five-Birthday-Ideas-robincharmagne

I am undecided on my birthday plans, but anticipating doing something a little different and fun for sure. My friends are usually game for anything so whatever experience I choose should be a blast. I will keep ya’ll posted on the upcoming high jinks. What did you do for your last birthday?

robincharmagne

Filed Under: Entertaining, Holiday, Life and Style Tagged With: Monday Musing

Mellow Yellow – Color Trends

June 6, 2018 by robincharmagne 24 Comments

yellow-color-trend-robincharmagne
Hello pretties,
Of course I’m talking about Beyonce…again. Yellow appears to be the color trend that she really gravitates toward in her videos and performances. Most recently at Beychella and the infamous Hold Up video from the Lemonade album. Beyonce wore a beautiful flowy, dreamy Roberto Cavalli dress, with layers and layers of ruffles. In celebration of yellow, I hand picked some finds for home and fashion in this soft but sexy color.

Yellow is fast becoming a favorite. I use it prominently in my dining room and I have added a few yellow pieces to my collection of cute tops. It can be hard to wear if the shade is too light for your complexion, just looks faded. If you are going to try yellow, I say be bold with it and get a strong yellow. You can pair it with black or white or add another color for interest like, green, brown, or red. Ease into this sunny, fun color with an accent piece like a bright crossbody handbag or summer slides or in your home with a rug or pillows.

Do you rock yellow in your home or in fashion?

robincharmagne

Filed Under: Decor, Entertainment, Music, Style Tagged With: Color trends

Who’s That Girl – Monday Musing

June 4, 2018 by robincharmagne 19 Comments

hey_there_robincharmagneblog

Hey pretties,
Who is that girl? Since it is a new month and my blogging has been all over the place, I thought I would sorta re-introduce myself and share a few tidbits about robincharmagne that are very random and oddball! Here goes…

that-girl-robincharmagne

Inquiring Minds

1. I love Bentleys, my dream automobile. Whenever I see a Bentley tooling around The A, I try to snap a pic and then wonder if the owner is a famous rapper, a politician, or a blogger who made her dreams come true.
2. I drink mojitos when socializing, but I am not a drinker, does that make sense? Brown liquor is disgusting.
3. I would rock a pair of jeans every single day, matter of fact, I do wear jeans every single day. My uniform – jeans and a cute top.
4. All cookies are welcome in my house, actually if you bring cookies, I will love you forever. Especially oatmeal or graham crackers or vanilla wafers, or…okay any kind is fine.
5. Science fiction is my favorite movie genre, except Star Wars, never liked it. Live long and prosper is more my speed – did you catch that?
6. I work virtually and Podcasts help my day go so much faster without being a distraction. My favorite podcast is The Read – sometimes ratchet, including adult language, but always woke!
7. Room service is my jam, especially for breakfast. Nothing like waking up to a delicious, beautifully plated meal that is delivered and setup so fancy. It is a vacation splurge I include in the budget.
8. I know God created bugs, but really, they are not my friends. The End….of all bugs.
9. A house on the beach is the life, nothing like living near water. One day…

A peek inside the mind of robincharmagne. Thank you for stopping by and tell me something random or odd about you?

robincharmagne

Photo:GDemeritte Photography

Filed Under: Blogging, Life and Style Tagged With: blogging, Monday Musing

How To Add Style To House Plants

May 29, 2018 by robincharmagne 8 Comments

plant-stand-ideas-robincharmagne

Hello pretties,
My Mom loves playing in the dirt with flowers, trees, mulch and such, but she can really grow house plants. I like yard work too but I was never really into house plants until I was gifted a peace lily a couple of years ago. The peace lily is a super popular and inexpensive house plant with pretty white blooms. I took pretty good care of it until I went on vacation and when I came back, she had pretty much died. I watered here and stuff but she was gone. So off to Lowe’s I went shopping for a new plant – looking for something super hardy that, like a cat, could take care of itself for the most part LOL. I found this beauty, a chinese evergreen. The tag on it said plants of steel and that you could go on a two week vacation and the plant would be fine. Ding, ding, ding, we have a winner. I like this plant, it has large, dark green leaves and she has been thriving!
my-plant-robincharmagne

Now I love the heavy decorative pot I have her living in right now and the dark color works well with my living room, but I really want something with more oomph, more jazzy, so I started looking for ideas. I saw this stand on my favorite idea source Houzz! The elegance and height of this plant stand adds something special to a simple space.

Photo by Titus Built, LLC – stand

Shop Plant Stands

This house plant styling is pretty fancy in this home but a stand is the look I am going for with this plant vs. just sitting it in a pot. My favorite are the metal stands, which are good for adding texture to a room. The two choices from the Target Threshold collection are really nice and affordable. Do you have any house plants and how do you display them in your home?

P.S. The peace lily might be making a comeback…saw some tiny greenery on it!

robincharmagne

Filed Under: Decor, Home, Style Tagged With: home decor, home sprucing, plants

3 Lessons I Learned From The Royal Wedding

May 21, 2018 by robincharmagne 4 Comments

Boy_ meets_ girl_robincharmagne

Hello pretties,
Still basking in the beauty and joy of the Royal Wedding. Actually I had not planned to watch it, but I woke up just when it all began and I must say I am glad I did. The entire ceremony was beautiful from start to finish – my highlights, Bishop Curry’s message and the Kingdom Choir. I was so moved by both. Bishop Curry’s message of love was much needed and timely given the current climate. And the Kingdom Choir, just absolute pure beauty, their voices like angels. I just love them and will definitely try to see them in person somewhere in the UK or US!! Oh one more thing, Meghan’s Mom, regal and proud, she has a fan in me. I turned off the television thinking I believe in love again…here is what I learned…

Lessons Learned

1. Get out of that dreaded comfort zone, you know the one where you text, talk, and meet. Don’t be afraid to try something new like a blind date! Prince Harry and Meghan met on a blind date. I have never been on a blind date but definitely open to trying especially if my close friends suggested someone cool! After all, they know me pretty well!
2. Be open, I realize my dream partner might not fit that perfect picture in my mind. I don’t think Meghan actually dreamed of marrying a Prince! I am willing to drop my prototype for the real thing.
3. Setup boundaries when needed. The press hounded Meghan and Prince Harry put a stop to it. I might not have paparrazi chasing me in Target, but if the people around me are being negative or not supportive, I will shut them down!

I am rooting for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex! Did you watch the Royal Wedding and what was your favorite or most memorable part?
robincharmagne

Filed Under: Life and Style, Personal Tagged With: Monday Musing, weddings

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