an unplugged morning

Yesterday morning, my alarm went off at 5 am instead of my usual 6/6:30. After squeezing in about 20 extra minutes of snuggles, I pulled myself out of bed to a cold dark loft, threw on a sweatshirt, and headed out the door with Bruce for our morning walk. As we strolled the empty streets of downtown, I was amazed by the beautiful stars overhead. In the cold silence of the early morning, just me, Bruce, the stars and the streetlights, I began my day with prayer. After we returned from our walk, I decided to get in a little yoga, read my daily devotional, and then spent some time throwing the toys for Bruce. As I enjoyed my coffee and he cheerfully ran up and down the hallway after his ball, I realized that this peaceful morning I was having was because I was present, instead of on my phone (besides snapping these picture of course…). So often my mornings begin with checking email, calendars, social media etc. as I race around to begin my day, but yesterday was different and it was so nice! Lately, Max has been making an effort to help us unplug – suggesting “phone free” walks, dinners etc. and as much as I love Instagram, I love my little family more and am so grateful for quality time together. Yesterday's peaceful morning was a wonderful reminder of how unplugging and removing distractions allows time for more important things, like prayers and pugs.

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On my radar // Shop Save & Share

Can you believe that it's already mid October?! Time is flying by and the holidays will be here before we know it. I can't believe I'm about to say this, but it's time to start thinking about the holidays and yes... christmas shopping! I'm not much of a "shopper" but I do love finding the perfect gifts for friends and family and getting a good deal. Shop Save & Share is here just in time, and this year's lineup of participating retailers, local shops, and over 60 restaurants is incredible. Shop Save and Share is an annual fundraiser by the Junior League of Birmingham.  The purchase of a $40 card gives you a 20% discount at all participating retailers October 21 - November 1st, and the proceeds goes to support over 30 local community projects that improve the lives of women and children in Birmingham. It all kicks off with appetizers, beverages, and giveaways on Wednesday, October 21st at 6pm at the Premier Party at the Summit.

I'm always on board with a fundraiser that saves you money, supports local businesses, and benefits community projects and you know me, I already have my list in the works. Here are a few participating retailers on my radar:  Naked Art - a great spot for one of a kind, funky gifts Birmingham Zoo - just in time for "Boo at the Zoo"! Leaf & Petal - the most beautiful pumpkins, fall plants, and more Alabama Goods - the best place for local products and Alabama accessories and gifts At Home Furnishings -  one of my very favorite shops! They have the most beautiful home furnishings, accessories, and jewelry too SoHo Retro - the best mid century modern furnishings and accessories Table Matters - where thanksgiving tablescape dreams come true West Elm - who doesn't love West Elm?! Their throws make the best gifts William Sonoma - for all your turkey day essentials Levy's Fine Jewelry - Max and I have been eyeing our wedding bands here and 20% off is huge! Ivory and White Bridal Boutique - the most charming little bridal shop Fabrik - my go to boutique! I'm loving their fall selection right now Soca - love their jewelry selection (and maybe I can actually afford it with the 20% off) Madewell - the best scarves and fall basics JCrew - oh JCrew <3 Hollywood Feed - great pet products and the friendliest service Oli.O - specialty oils and balsams make great gifts! Painted Shovel Mercantile - a great spot for local art, accessories, and gifts The Whole Dog Market - an adorable little shop for your gifts for your fur babies
And last but certainly not least, the food: The Alabama Biscuit Co Ashley Mac's  Brick and Tin Church Street Coofee and Books Dyron's Low Country Heavenly Donut Co Primeaux Cheese and Vino Good People Brewing Company The Pantry Slice Pizza and Brew ... and over 50 more great restaurants to choose from! 
Have a lovely week, and happy shopping!

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Bham Foodie Bucket List

A few of my friends from work have recently urged me to share more of my love of local restaurants and Bham eats here on the blog. Now, I'm not foodie in terms of having a fancy palette or even good taste, I just love food, trying new places, and supporting local restaurants. As a matter of fact, Max and I keep a running list on our refrigerator and our phones of new places to try. With so many great spots around town, there's no need to eat at a chain. So, inspired by you dear girls, and by the grand opening of OvenbirdBham happening today, I share with you my Bham foodie bucket list: 
OvenBird | Pepper Place Bamboo on 2nd | Downtown Continental Bakery | Downtown  Tau Paco | Downtown Brunch at Dyron's Low Country | Crestline Brick & Tin | Downtown Brunch at El Barrio | Downtown 5 Points Public House and Oyster Bar | 5 Points Highlands Bar and Grill | 5 Points Hot and Hot Fish Club | 5 Points Foodbar | Vestavia East 59 | East Lake Alabama Biscuit Co | Cahaba Heights Heavenly Donut | Food Truck Birmingham Breadworks | Lakeview Feast and Forest | 2nd Avenue North (coming soon!)
What's on your foodie bucket list?!

// image via Ovenbird quote by Julia Child //

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