something lovely

Top ten Thanksgiving tables

There's no wrong way to style your Thanksgiving table and with so many great sources for inspiration, you're sure to find something that reflects your personal style. Whether it's casual & contemporary or classic & traditional, what's important is that your table is a place where friends and family feel welcome to gather for a day of feast and thanks-giving.

These images are my top ten because they are all warm and unique, reflecting the individual style of the host. While they represent a variety of table styles the one thing that remains consistent is layering. Layering the china, linens, greenery, and decorative accents creates a tablescape that feels collected and inviting. A table that is perfectly arranged without layering can feel stuffy and impersonal. Layering allows your eye to dance along from piece to piece and makes your guests feel welcome to relax and enjoy themselves. My personal Thanksgiving table style is one that is full of treasured pieces, your grandmothers china, your child's artwork, your fathers silver, your favorite greenery. I prefer the mismatched and imperfect table that is full of family, history, love and warmth.

Whatever your table style, may your Thanksgiving be full of family, food, and love. Happy Thanksgiving!

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three lovely things

1 // This year for Thanksgiving, we’re doing things a little different. Since my brother wasn’t going to be able to make it home for Thanksgiving day, we decided to do our feast over the weekend. It was so great having Tyler home and the food was incredible. My mom makes the best Thanksgiving meal, just like her mom did before her. We always have her delicious asparagus casserole and a pan of dressing big enough to feed an army that we somehow manage to devour. With all the amazing food and getting to snuggle my baby bro, it was one great weekend.

2 // Thanksgiving is such a great time to reflect on all of the things we have to be thankful for. This year I am so thankful for my health and my family. I was recently in an auto accident where I could have been seriously injured. The other day, as I was complaining about the stress and frustration of my situation, I saw a blind man walking alone in the dark down a very busy street. In that moment my troubles seemed petty and I realize just how much I have to be thankful for. This year, I urge you all to write down those things you’re most thankful for, and continue to do so throughout the year. Next year on Thanksgiving, read them back to see just how many blessings you’ve had over the year.

3 // My sweet grandmother turns 83 on Wednesday! Gammy has been such an important part of my life. As a child, we spent lots of time just me and Gammy. She would make my favorite cheese grits, set up a snuggly palette, and let me watch Nickelodeon. She would let me play dress up in all of her clothes and even had a real cash register that I would use to set up my “store” in the middle of her living room. Gammy and I had many life chats about family, religion, and love. We were the best of pals. Even now, all these years later and with her having Alzheimer’s disease, Gammy and I have a special bond. When I give her a hug, she can feel how much I love her and I can feel it back. Even though she doesn’t always have the words, I know that bond is still there. The other day, as I hugged her she said to me, “You’re my girl!” and my heart melted into a big puddle on the floor. You’re my girl Gammy, Happy Birthday!

Happy Monday. May your week be filled with lots of lovely things!

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Four years

Four years ago today, I went on my first date with my boyfriend Max. We went to dinner and a movie and had the best time! We dated for 6 months before we graduated college. After graduation, Max had plans to start medical school in Birmingham and I had plans to returned to Atlanta and pursue my career. When it came time to say our goodbyes, we decided that we would give the long distance dating a try and see how it goes. Now here we are four years later happier than ever, long distance and all. It hasn't been easy and long distance isn't for the faint of heart but love is love and I am so thankful to have shared all these years with you Max. Thanks for four great years, full of love and laughs. I look forward to many many more.