I never like to think of having too many books as a problem. But when you read one or two books a week they can quickly clutter up your space! If you're a big reader like me, try these easy tips for turning your favorite reads into beautiful displays so your books don't end up sitting in your garage or closet. In a Basket on Your Bedside Table: In my guest room, I like to leave a basket filled with my favorite books for anyone that comes to stay. The room has hints of blue from the bedspread . . .
My Favorite Reads of 2018
2018 was a big year for me as a writer. After ten years of writing, revising, and pitching my story, my first novel, Waiting at Hayden's, was finally published! I want to thank and every person who supported the book--whether by attending one of my launch parties, reading the story, sharing it with a friend, or offering words of encouragement during the journey to publication. A lot goes into releasing a book--way more than I could have EVER imagined when I first decided I wanted to write . . .
My Favorite Places to Write (And Eat) In Charleston
For the longest time I had to write on the second story of a building. I have LITERALLY no idea why, but most authors can’t seem to explain their bizarre writing habits. Dan Brown apparently puts on gravity boots and hangs upside down to help him with his focus on his stories. Truman Capote had to write while lying horizontal—and often in the nude. And Maya Angelo would rent hotel rooms (a woman after my own heart!) and write on her bed. Most of Waiting at Hayden’s was written at Tea Chai Te . . .
Tips for Hosting the Happiest Holiday Happy Hour
When I decide to research something, I really like to commit! Thankfully, last week’s research wasn’t hard to commit to. In fact, I may have poured myself a bit too much into it the research (or rather, been poured a bit too much). I visited my favorite restaurant in Newport Beach, Modo Mio, and sampled all the cocktails on their new cocktail menu! I love visiting Modo Mio during the holidays and throughout the rest of year because the staff makes you feel like family. You’re dining out, but . . .
Cameron Diaz’s Outfits From The Holiday Recreated
Photo Credit: here This past weekend I channeled my inner-Cameron Diaz in The Holiday—my favorite Christmas movie of all time! I love everything about this film—the idea that swapping homes with a complete stranger might completely change your life, the spontaneous way Amanda and Iris book their plane tickets to make the switch, the quaint, charming snow-covered town of Surrey, Amanda’s wardrobe, house, and humor, and of course, the fact that the film is written and directed by . . .
Learning From Love Actually: Embrace Vulnerability
One of my favorite scenes in Love Actually is when Mark (Andrew Lincoln) brings cue cards over to Juliet (Keira Knightly’s) character’s house and confesses how he feels about her on her doorstep. Is it wrong? Most would probably say so. She’s married to his best friend. But it’s brutally honest. And as I was watching the romantic comedy the other night, I couldn’t help but think… why aren’t we all showing up with cue cards at each other’s doorsteps more often? Why do we hold so much of how we . . .