Charleston: Poogan's Porch

I surprised Hank with an end-of-summer getaway, and just like that, we were Charleston bound. The last time we were in town was when we got engaged, so we were pretty excited to be back. We rolled into town on Friday just in time for lunch at Poogan's Porch.

How cute is their intro on their website (and so true!): "We believe in conversations on porches, Sunday brunch, old Southern dogs, ghosts!, seersucker, biscuits, homemade and handmade, sweet tea, handwritten recipes, friends old and new, great stories, gracious hospitality and our Moms. Not necessarily in that order." Southern charm was all around us as we enjoyed lunch at one of the best seats in the house... Right on Poogan's Porch. 

Hank had a local brew, Westbrook, and I had their cocktail, Porch Side, that was complete with burnt Rosemary (unique and refreshing). Then it was onward to the biscuits...

From the biscuits to the starters, everything was delicious. We dined on she crab soup and fried alligator with a honey jalapeno dressing (yum!). More!? Yep, there was more.

So much more it called for a few bites and two boxes. I had their duck confit grilled cheese {pimiento cheese, duck confit, crispy bacon, sliced red tomato, sourdough bread} with sweet potato fries, and Hank had their low country pasta {bowtie pasta, chicken, sausage, smoked gouda, bacon cream, cherry tomatoes, tri-colored peppers, vidalia onions}. 

No matter what menu item is selected, you probably can't go wrong. ... And the charm, well, that's just the icing on the cake. Poogan's Porch gets two thumbs up.

Yep, They Were Back

Let's see... Backstreet Boys concert last week was great (Thanks, Kathleen!). This was by far my favorite picture of the night - parking lot tailgating with DJ Pauly D and Nick Carter.

The Boys still had their moves, but my favorite part was when they did a performance on stools and said y'all are going to have to get use to this because we wont be able to dance forever. And, what I learned is that BSB is coming out with a movie. Uh oh... Here we go!

Movie Night

I had Jen over on Friday night. We dined at Daniel's and then it was back to the casa for movie night. We watched... Bridesmaids (it doesn't even get old after the millionth time). 

Earlier in the week I picked up popcorn boxes from Michael's for $1. Then ran by Target for our favorite movie candy - Reese's Pieces, Raisinets and sour gummy worms (the Target brand is by far the best). Then we snacked and wined it out in the nook. "Help me, I'm poor."

Looking Back: Fiesta at the Lake

I hosted a pregame marg party (surprise!) at my parent's house before we were off to one of my favorite lake parties of the year, the George T. "Buck" Wilson Memorial Pig Pickin'. 

I strung neon pom-pom balls together as a decoration for the portable bar. I passed the margarita glasses (pictured) up one time, and I wasn't going to do it again. Mom picked them up at the antique store I saw them at, and I am happy as can be. Cheers!

Each year this party serves as a reminder of the importance of family. It's all about getting together no matter what (plus great food and dancing... lots of dancing). 

The 'cue is always tasty, and everyone at the lake brings on the side dishes and desserts. 

Each year there is some type of musical act whether karaoke, DJ or a band. 

There is nothing like good music and sweet southern charm on the water.

Don't mind me... Per usual, I'm already excited for this party next year!

This & That

Shoe day. at work. Fan Feet brought in their Carolina line so we could get Tar Heeled. It was I just had to have two pairs fantastic. I love being a Tar Heel with all of my heart and sole.

 

One of my favorite lunch breaks is cruising out to Maple View Farm to enjoy a scoop of ice cream. It's backroads, country music, rocking chairs and flavors like banana pudding good.

Once a year I enjoy a hot dog and cheez spuds party from The Dog House. That's all on that.

I made myself round 1,800 corners before I could go out on Friday night. Thank goodness Hank made an assist or dinner would have been beyond late night. Sweet (tiny) successes. 

I enjoyed a delicious brunch at the State Farmer's Market Restaurant, Real Biscuits, and then picked out apples plus a nice bouquet for $5. Love these brain flowers - celosia. 

In Bentley news, he got a new dog bed after he ate his last one (looks so innocent).

Too much of a good thing can be wonderful.  - Mae West

BSB, Baby!

Currently channeling my inner Andrea from 1997/98. Heading to the Backstreet Boys concert next week with Kathleen (who I went to see BSB with in middle school). I will say, I got to touch Kevin's hand on that day as he was leaving the arena, and I thought I would never wash it again. Well, that's so middle school for you. It's crazy to me that no matter how much time passes, there are some songs we just never seem to forget the lyrics to.

Rah Rah Carolina

With football season just around the corner - I've been crafting away some Carolina spirit. I brought my golden ram to the office, and he's been a hit ever since. Show your Carolina pride with a Rah Rah Carolina Golden Ram. One for your home, one for your office - perfect addition to that Tar Heel tablescape. Elegant and regal - this is a must have for any Tar Heel. This ram is 4.5" wide by 3.25" tall. Check him out here, and as always, Go Heels!

Happy Treasures

From sweet delights to great mail, this week was filled with lots of treats. Why not get excited about being cavity free - kid style? I brought home Gigi's Cupcakes for Hank and I on Wednesday. Their Merry Margarita flavor is fantastic (Hank had White Midnight Magic).

I popped into one of my favorite shops, Bargain Box, and scored some items at an extra 50 percent off - pig invitations, letterpress calendars and a neat recycled glass piece. 

Last but not least, there's a necklace I've been wanting since 2010 (!!!) that I've mentioned before here. Well, three years later, it arrived in my mailbox from Cape Town (yipee!).

It was the last one in the company, so I'm pretty certain it's been waiting on me. I've worn it every day since the day I got it. If you see me, I'll still be wearing it. Happy Treasures!