mr. & mrs. Rigoloso in detail

a birthday trip for a friend // Ohio, No. 1

2012-02-10T00:00:00.000-06:00

We had our trip planned since early November.

It was simple: fly to Ohio to surprise Candis for her birthday.

Elizabeth deciding to join me was icing on the ole proverbial cake.

We got the okay from Candis' fella, Drew, bought our tickets and made a little video for Candis to watch on her actual birthday announcing that we'd be showing up on her doorstep in early February come hell or high water.

And that's how I found myself sitting on the much coveted loveseat in the Jones' beautiful Ohio home.

Greetings in chalk made me pinch myself. Is this for real?!

Group shot.

And another.

The handsome young men.

Catching up on life with my pal Westley.

Impressive pea eating skill.

Everett being adorable, per usual.

Black and White cookies, a fast-growing tradition.

I have beautiful friends, that's all there is to it.

It's true, Drew. Don't doubt it.

Sweet father and son.

A happy colored laundry basket of baby things.

When I planned this trip, I thought I was just doing it for Candis.

Don't get me wrong, I knew I'd love every second, but I had no idea then just how badly I would need this trip, too.

I wanted to show my friends how loved and valued and important they are.

You know what they did? They showed me those same beautiful things in return.

We acted like girls and cried and laughed and ate chocolate.

It was all very needed and very good.

Thank goodness for the kindness of friends.

More Ohio pictures coming next week... that's what happens when you get a bunch of camera happy people together...

a shatload of pictures.

And now? Happy Weekending.

a few things about Ohio

2012-02-08T01:00:00.019-06:00

Ohio was awesome.

Seeing my friends and their babies was even better.

Today I am uploading my pictures from the trip -there are hundreds- so here's a little sneak according to my phone.

Have you ever seen an Ohio sunrise? It looks like this.

The beautiful view from my bedroom.

Dinner from Drew's Diner.

That man cooked for us nearly every day and it was so good.

Elizabeth and I had the good fortune to be on the same flight back for the first part of our trip home.

An older lady in the airport thought we were EE's two mamas.

Have you seen this beautiful mother and child?! I'd totally claim 'em.

This sweet angelchild loves me. We made faces in my phone together. His face wins.

We got crafty and made some necklaces as seen in Candis' shop.

Self-portrait in Candis' famous Snow White mirror.

Scout Jones on my lap.

Another Ohio recap coming soon. I'm off to hug on my man and if I'm being honest...

to think about doing some laundry.

Peace out.

jet-setting to the buckeye state

2012-02-02T00:00:00.018-06:00

source

I’m going to say farewell to the hustle that is New York City for a few days in exchange for a girls’ getaway to Ohio.

I can hardly wait to see friends and hug their necks and just be in the same room together.

I did promise J a trip soon where husbands were invited,

but this time around will be filled with nail polishing and girl talking and wine drinking.

Oh... and I think there will be chocolate. I am almost certain of it.

Let's face it, a nice creamy chocolate cake does a lot for a lot of people; it does for me.

Audrey Hepburn

the brooklyn flea

2012-02-01T00:00:00.003-06:00

Last Sunday, Justin and I met our friend Claire at the Brooklyn Flea for a little browsing and shopping.

It was worth the trip for the building alone.

I loved the vaulted doors in the basement... proof that this structure has a history to tell.

We found some sweet vintage glasses. A certain pair of cateyes stole my heart, but not J's.

My favorite find of all? The classic typewriters. Old beauties restored to tell another tale.

If you have a chance to visit the Brooklyn Flea, do it.

It's quite the magical place.

up on the roof

2012-01-31T00:00:00.005-06:00

Some of Justin's coworkers had a party last weekend on a rooftop with Manhattan as the backdrop.

I'd always wanted to go to a party on a roof and I loved it.

There was an older lady in attendance, probably somebody's sweet grandmother, I thought.

Not so much sweet, and more like drunk off her tail with the mouth of a sailor.

We watched as the city surrendered from day to night. It was absolutely beautiful.

Our only picture together courtesy of drunk grandma.

rainy friday at random

2012-01-27T10:00:00.002-06:00

I've been using these two books as motivation.

Get some things knocked off my eternal to-do list and these are my reward.

I think it's going to happen this weekend, I really do.

I barely turned the first couple pages just to peek and I was hooked already.

I've been gathering supplies to do my version of project life.

I know a bunch of people started their projects January 1, but I didn't and that's okay.

The main thing is I am excited to get creative with documenting our days using paper and glue and, fingers crossed...

some glittah.

And then this happened. My dang pages are bigger than my binder.

But I measured! And triple checked! my inner perfectionist screams.

Let it go, says my new mantra to not sweat the small stuff.

See it as a challenge to get creative. Find a way to make it work. You got this. Don't ruin the fun.

This lovely white stack?

Christmas gifts. From 20'leven.

I have never in all my life been so late in gift-giving.

Sigh. Maybe my friends will be excited to get a mid-February gift.

Hands down one of the best cards I've ever received.

From a friend who reads my words all the way in Portland.

It makes me so happy, I think I'm gonna frame it.

And lastly, the sofa I fell in love with, but alas, did not buy.

I hope you have a great weekend, friends.

Even if it's rainy, make it a good one.

a walk on a snowy January eve

2012-01-26T00:00:00.028-06:00

It's raining now as I write these words... last weekend's snow long since washed away.

For a fleeting moment, New York City remembered that it was winter and brought us a nice blanket of the magical whiteness.

This was the view out our window.

It didn't take long for us to don our respective Bean Boots and strike out for a winter's eve walk.

These doors in our 'hood have begged me to take their picture for over a year now.

This night seemed like the right time. I love the reflection of the snow on the car.

We found ourselves at the East River.

These classic striped smokestacks are directly across the river from J's hospital.

I like them. They remind me of a painting by the talented Drew Jones.

We weren't the only ones out enjoying the cold night air and I liked that.

The lamp post cast such a dreamy glow, I couldn't help but think of Narnia.

Evidence of a sneaky snowangel.

And now, for a tale about a tree.

When we first moved to Manhattan,

some friends from church told us about the park shown above that's really close to our house.

I won't ever forget their words... one of New York's best kept secrets.

They were totally right.

We have spent many an hour there... introducing Southern family and friends to green pasture in The Big City,

taking leisurely strolls, sitting on our bench while J practiced GRE vocabulary.

Safe to say, we love this place.

You can imagine how jazzed I was when I learned our little park had it's very own Christmas tree complete with a Community Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration! And hot chocolate! And carollers!

You can also imagine how bummed I was when our schedule had us elsewhere on the night of The Glorious Event.

But I got over it with a note to self: maybe next year.

And then...

After I'd made my peace with missing her, there she stood.

Snow-covered and beautiful and still very much proud in mid-January.

I got to see her at long last with no other soul around but my man and me.

I dare say it was better than being there with swarms of neighbors... even if we did miss the hot chocolate.

I do believe that night in the park was one of my favorite New York moments yet.

Yes, it absolutely was.

finding the brazen me, again

2012-01-25T06:00:00.014-06:00

Do you ever know what you should be doing and you just don't do it?

Surely I am not alone in this, what with all the quotes flying around pinterest like...

A year from now you'll wish you'd started today

Discipline is doing what you know needs to be done even when you don't want to

It's never a question of can you, but will you

I know what I need it to do and I just need to do it.

Dropping some more pounds, moving more, cooking healthier... yes.

But I need to apply discipline in other areas of my life, too.

Saying no, being patient, loving selflessly, turning off the computer, writing the words deep down, worrying less.

The brazen me is there daring me to do what I know I should.

What I know I can.

our new digs

2012-01-24T00:00:00.006-06:00

1. We have a bed of our very own

2. Our first adult TV... that sounds bad... first flat screen

3. Exposed cords driving me bonks

4. And drumroll please... a coffee table designed by J

We keep it real. We keep it classy.

a memory for safekeeping

2012-01-21T05:00:00.003-06:00

I tiptoed to the window ever so softly, trying not to wake my sleeping man, bundled and snug under the down comforter.

I just had to know.

Twice I checked. Three times.

Nothing.

Back to bed.

I closed my eyes, but sleep would not come.

I stole away to my laptop, reading the words of both friends and strangers in blogland.

I spent the next hour vowing to paint a headboard bright yellow, crying silent tears over the late-term miscarriage of a woman I've never met and determining that if I read any more Keep Calm signs on pinterest I might just swear outloud.

My eyes were getting heavy, but I decided to check once more.

I tiptoed my quiet path back to the window.

And there it was.

Snow.

Coming down in soft, wispy puffs. Covering the trees and the leaves and the windshields of cars. Shimmering like so much glitter on the cold ground.

I stood there by my window, paused. Just watching.

Only a couple other windows were alight casting the smallest glow on our sleepy street.

Snuggled back in our warm bed, I couldn't help myself.

Justin, the snow! It's here. And with that, he buried his warm, tousled head into my neck and whispered, I'm glad, my baby.

I'm pretty glad myself.

My winter has come.

early January morning outside my window

They came and took our furniture

2012-01-20T06:00:00.000-06:00

Welp. It's done.

The day came and the corporate apartment people showed up and took all their furniture back.

Down to the trash cans and ironing board.

I said a final good riddance to the buttercream microsuede and hello to lots of floor space.

Justin says it looks like we've been robbed.

I say we've got the room... we should have a dance party.

I did find a sweet deal on a lamp and we just ordered a new sofa, so our home won't be empty for long.

In the mean time, we're having a dance party and you're all invited.

a song for you today

2012-01-19T00:00:00.003-06:00

Honey, I'll Try

/Emile Millar/

I won't say you look the same

You're beautiful more today

Twenty years I'd wait

For you to come and say

Honey, I'm much stronger today

Honey, I'll try

Emile Millar, you know what's what.

listen here / photo credit Daniel Discala

my friend and her new shop

2012-01-17T07:50:00.000-06:00

You remember my friend Candis, right?

Beautiful, funny, kind Candis

Well Candis and her man DrewJones are real talented...

Here's the baby they made. Super cute, I know.

Well, Candis and Drew have done it again.

Except this time they made a shop. On etsy. And it rocks.

Here's one of the super sweet deals you can find in the shop.

My words. In print. A print you can buy.

My heart kinda did a somersault when she sent me a sneakpeek.

Not because I'm awesome, but because she's awesome.

Check out some other beautiful prints waiting to be your very own...

words from Elizabeth, Bridget and Candis herself

I think this may be one of my first purchases for real...

I'm so proud of this new venture for my friend and her man.

Go say hello to the coolest shop on the block... here.

today

2012-01-13T00:00:00.006-06:00

As soon as I clean the house, I will turn around twice and it will be time to clean it again.

And we don't even have kids. It's just the two of us Rigos living here.

There will always be more laundry to wash, dry, fold, put away, repeat.

To-do lists? Seemingly endless.

Phone calls to return. Plans to make. Money to earn, spend, save.

You haven't seen any cupcakes or glittered nails or fancy fance dinners posted on my little blog this week.

Life has just been life. And I hate to use this word, but it's been b u s y.

But here's what I am learning... I don't want to miss beautiful little moments getting caught up in the fastness of it all.

The way Justin reaches for a hug before he goes to work.

The cheery sounds of my parents' voices on the phone even after their own long day.

The assurance of friendship in the quickest of catch-ups.

An unexpected card in the mail.

I don't want to get so caught up in being busy that I forget to just be.

To be a good wife and daughter and friend...

This is the moment I've been waiting for.

Here's to enjoying the little moments even when there are dirty floors to sweep and snot noses to wipe.

I hope you find some and hang onto them tight.

Happy weekending.

my friend Candis wrote something similar earlier this week that tugged on my heartstrings and made me realize I am not alone in this fight to just enjoy the now.

hello, 2012 + a note to myself

2012-01-12T00:00:00.033-06:00

Why, hello there, 2012.

You've not quite been around 2 full weeks, but you are certainly making your presence known.

I feel like I've barely slowed down to enjoy you since you've been here.

Granted, you've already delivered us a nice celebration:

the happy No. 5 with my man and for that, I am thankful.

Since I haven't had a chance to write this down anywhere else, I suppose here is as good a place as any.

Some of the things I'd like to accomplish within your lovely months...

buy a new sofa

preferably one that is not microsuede or buttercream or owned by corporate housing

write

because I want to, not because I feel like I should

because actually writing makes me feel like I am creating something that otherwise wouldn't exist

and it makes me feel accomplished giddy empowered in a way I've never experienced before

blog

because I want to, not because I feel like I should

document life in hard copy

I'm thinking something like this

move more, eat less

yeah. just do the damn thing.

invest in friendships

old ones, new ones, near ones, far ones

hear more live music

2011 provided some, but give me more please

make the perfect over-easy egg

it's J's favorite, after all

visit Boston

a belated anniversary trip

And finally a note to my own self...

dear molly,

Relax, sister. You will find the perfect couch and it won't be microsuede! Yay!

So what if life seems a little crazy right now? You've known crazy before and you can handle this.

You've got a real good man, the best man, by your side with a supportive family on top.

A year from now you won't remember the little things that stress you out, so why let them take up precious time now?

Do life well. Live it well. Enjoy it well.

You are your own harshest critic and it's time to lighten up.

Now, go forth and embrace 2012. And may microsuede burn in hades.

xoxo

things that make me human... or just weird

2012-01-11T09:40:00.000-06:00

My hair has never been this long before... I think it deserves some recognition and laud.

I unpack my suitcase the second I walk in the door.

When I am checking out at the grocery store, I load my goods onto the belt a certain way. Cold things together. Canned goods together. Fresh produce together. You won't catch toothpaste floating around with the lettuce. That's just not right.

I sort the laundry before I fold it. J's t-shirts in a pile. My pajamas. Towels. Then I fold and it's already sorted and ready to put away. I save the socks for last. My favorite things to fold are Justin's scrubs.

I wash dishes as I cook.

I stress out over little things and want to take steps to not.

My days and nights are totally messed up... like a newborn babe. Only I am not newly born.

Chipped finger nail polish is enough to make me sweat (see stressing over little things).

Speaking of, I am a sweater. Thus, I adore cold weather. I feel like my best self then.

And lastly, I have been caught trying to make up the bed while Justin is still asleep in said bed. He says I was trying to make it up, I say I was just straightening. Either way, busted.

It's not always red lips and warby parkers and bright and shiny over here in blogland, guys.
We are real people and we are weird.

Or maybe just human.

how we celebrated No. 5

2012-01-09T00:00:00.001-06:00

We kicked the weekend off with a little takout.

Followed by getting dolled up for a date on the town.

I felt pretty and I'm usually a brutal critic on myself, so feeling pretty on our big date was a gift.

Our attempt at taking a picture of ourselves in the mirror was a circus.

I was snapping my fingers, No, look up here, not there!

Justin: Did you just snap your fingers at me like a Sears kids' photographer?

We gave up and got our doorman to take a picture.

Late night dessert... and proof we earned the following card from our friend Amber...

Amber's message to us:

Love you guys and thank you for not sitting on the same side of a booth at a restaurant

when it is only you two.

Brunch on Saturday... we believe in extending celebrations as long as possible.

Heavens yes... bleu cheese and gruyère omelet at Brasserie Julien.

After brunch, we promptly came home and got in an argument.

Just keeping it real, folks.

But we didn't stay mad long and we made up and watched some Friday Night Lights on netflix.

We think it's pretty cool that we've celebrated two consecutive anniversaries in New York.

I think it's pretty cool that I married by best friend, that we can fight and still love each other in the process.

I'm not perfect and he's not either, but I wouldn't want to do this life with anyone else.

And to know that we don't make our friends vomit? Icing on the cake.

No. 5

2012-01-06T00:00:00.019-06:00

One of my favorite memories took place when we were still out on the dance floor.

Our first dance was classic Al Green, Let's Stay Together.

But at this point, I think the band was playing a crowd-pleasing rendition of Mustang Sally.

He wrapped his arms around my waist and in a strong, low voice said,

You ready to get outta here?

He's talented and smart and good.

I'm so glad he wanted to marry me.

Happy Number 5, Nut.

i love you so

NYC is good for this

2012-01-05T00:00:00.006-06:00

One thing that New York has made good on is bringing friends from near and far to visit.

Meet Myra, one of my pals from grad school.

Myra and her fella & some of their friends made the trip from D.C. recently for a quick NYC getaway.

We meet for dinner at the infamous Katz's Deli.

I couldn't help but keep an eye on the lady sitting in Meg Ryan's seat.

Just before the holidays, I got to meet Carrie & Matt downtown for a little bit of Christmas-in-the-city sightseeing.

Justin and I both went to college with Matt & Carrie, but it was through blogland that Carrie and I reconnected.

Such a small world, but such a great day with old/new friends.

And now, please meet my newest friend, Anna.

Anna writes a lovely blog called Dear Friend that will make you want to reach through the computer and hug her.

I had the pleasure of meeting Anna and her sweet sister Meg for a day out on the town.

We shopped Fish's Eddy, dined at Eataly and bonded over our shared love of Anthro bowls.

I am so glad I finally got to hug her in person.

That's another one in your favor, New York.

You bring friends to see us and we are grateful.

Home for Christmas

2012-01-04T07:30:00.001-06:00

Christmas 2011 has long since passed us, I know, but here are some of my favorite memories...

This guy was boarding a train with a Christmas tree on December 22. That's the spirit.

dad's homemade biscuits + breakfast at home, one of my very favorite things

hanging with Buster Pete + breaking in some new playdoh

gifting some special littles with famed FAO surprises

quality time with some of the best women I know

Nana's chocolate pie, heaven help us

Christmas in my parents' living room

loving my mom's face when she opened this gift from me + we love PW and Charlie, too

and lastly, stockings + you can't have Christmas without them

other 2011 highlights

Christmas lunch with J's mom + playing with my cousin's three littles +

sleeping in my childhood bedroom + Dad busting me with Christmas Eve Gift big time

I always wish for more time with those we love so much, but what we did have was quite merry.

Big News! Come and get it...

2012-01-03T17:55:00.000-06:00

We didn't find a million dollars in the floorboard of our cab.

We aren't having a baby.

We didn't buy a puppy.

But...

Justin and I moved to New York one year ago today... January 3, 2011...

with a traveling job that was suppose to be a temporary gig.

But something happened. We fell in love with this big city.

And one year later, we've decided to make it home. Our home.

While this transition is exciting, it's also crazy stressful.

I suppose that's why I still have Christmas presents to wrap and

why my nerves have been tap dancing in my stomach like nobody's business.

But we're almost there.

Just a little more paperwork, just a few more dollars and we'll be able to say,

Hello, New York City.

Hello, Home.

first post of 2012 // ringing in the new year

2012-01-03T00:00:00.004-06:00

Justin had to work on the eve of the new year, but thankfully,

I had some girlfriends who were happy to have a low-key girls' night in.

I sent out a last minute invite and the girls did not disappoint.

Saucy red lips and sparkly nails and some of the prettiest lacey tights you ever did see arrived for our little fête.

We blew out candles on crackbrownies because it seemed like the celebratory thing to do.

We popped the bubbly and toasted one another a lovely good year as the midnight hour chimed.

Low-key nights can make some of the very best celebrations, I am convinced.

I have loved the friendships, the creative outlet and the consistency my little blog brought me in 2011,

and I very much look forward to all that 2012 holds for me here in blogland.

Come back soon for some b i g news!

mmwah!

Remember the old + Welcome the new

2011-12-31T00:30:00.003-06:00

I am sitting here in New York City on my buttercream microsuede corporate apartment couch feeling the way I normally feel as the end of a year draws to a close.

I always have an urge to capture the memories of the passing year and lock them up,

hold them close, preserve them from ever leaving my heart.

There's something so exciting about the promise of a new year.

What will it hold? What surprises will there be?

So many different thoughts race through our minds depending on what season of life we find ourselves in...

Will this be the year I land the job of my dreams?

Will I meet the love of my life?

Will this be the year I get pregnant?

Will I finally get to retire?

Will I be able to purchase my first house?

I think we all like the idea of a clean slate. A brand new year with no mistakes in it yet.

A fresh year to accept our own challenges to cook more or exercise daily or tackle a new DIY.

And while I am excited to behold all that 2012 has for me and my little family,

I don't want to forget the past year, the one that shaped us into who we are today,

the one that helped bring us to this very place.

Here are a few of my favorite memories from 2011.

January / moved to New York City in the middle of a blizzard

February / learned to navigate our fair city

March / hung out with Jimmy Fallon

April / found our favorite pizza in Brooklyn

May / welcomed Spring to the city

June / discovered Central Park at dusk

July / dined outdoors

August / introduced my parents to the Big Apple

September / walked in the cool of the day

October / met some of my favorite ladies in Boston

November / celebrated Thanksgiving with friends in NYC

December / bought our first city Christmas tree

Thanks for being such a great year, 2011. I liked you a whole lot.

2012, bring it on. You've got some shoes to fill.

Isn't it nice to think that tomorrow is a new day with no mistakes in it yet?

Anne of Green Gables

Happy New Year, friends.

It's still Christmas over here + a birthday, too

2011-12-29T13:57:00.002-06:00

Hi blog people! It's a little quiet around blogland, huh?

I've been missing you all, though, so I thought I'd give you a quick little Rigo family update...

It still looks like Christmas around these parts. The tree is still lit and there are still presents to give.

We broke out the big, down comforter last night. NYC finally decided to act like it's winter.

27 degrees that felt like 19 was welcomed by cozying up with my man under blankets and falling asleep

by the light of Late Night with Jimmy Fallon. Bliss.

We're still reading Christmas cards and I'm still sporting Christmas plaid pajams.

And I am totally okay with that.

In some non-Christmas related news, today is my friend's birthday.

She's the kind of friend you just really enjoy spending time with.

The one you wish you could click your heels, show up on her doorstep and throw your arms around her neck.

Here's wishing you a beautiful, non-Christmasy birthday, Elizabeth. I love you a whole lot.

Whether it's still Christmas at your place or your birthday or just a Thursday, hope it's a happy one.

have a holly jolly Christmas

2011-12-23T00:00:00.035-06:00

Last Saturday, a friend and I met up for manicures.

We were talking about what color we wanted when I said to Jessica,

I think I want one glittered nail on each hand (a subtle nod to this lady).

Jessica nodded in agreement and said, Oh you mean a disco nail.

You learn something new everyday.

Merry Christmas from me and my disco nail!

and

Merry Christmas from my man and me!

We both like you guys so much.

I like you tons and he likes you because I like you.

That's how marriage works.

From Mr. and Mrs. Rigo to all of you...

may your days be filled with love and light.

see you sometime next week!

traditions + We'll be home for Christmas

2011-12-22T00:00:00.110-06:00

a new tradition: taking pictures of the Rockefeller tree 2010, 2011

I love tradition, especially at Christmastime. Here are a few of my favorites...

Picking out a tree. Just the right one for our family. I always wanted the biggest one on the lot and would have to be reminded our living room wasn't eight stories high.

Hugging the tree. Once we found our tree, my mom would and I would stand on either side and hug the fragrant fir with smiles a mile wide while my dad took our picture.

Taking the tree home. Always in my dad's vintage green truck, our little family sitting three deep in the cab. Transporting our new tree any other way would have been a sacrilege.

Watering the tree. My mom has a certain pitcher that she always uses to water the tree. It's mustard yellow and has a long spout. I loved being big enough for the chore.

Lighting the tree. This was one of my absolute favorite parts. Once the lights are lit, we check the tree from the road. We'd hurry out the door into the brisk, chilly night, walk down our driveway and stand in the middle of our front yard and clap that Christmas had officially begun at The Mitchell's. Exclamations of It's perfect! and The best one yet! coming from us all.

Carols. My parents have always loved music and during the holidays, the tunes would nearly be constant. I have a soft place in my heart for Aaron Neville's Louisiana Christmas Day. Don't hate.

Wood burning fire. My dad would make the best fires that would run you out of the house into the cold night to get some relief. I can remember my little self sitting in front of the fire after my bath letting my hair dry, feeling all Little House in the Big Woods.

Christmas Eve. We always spend Christmas Eve going to our church's candlelight evening service and then to dinner at my nana's. She cooks the same meal for us that her mother cooked for her as a little girl on Christmas Eve. Talk about tradition. I love it so.

Christmas Eve Gift. The tale goes: the first person to say Christmas Eve Gift! on the 24th to another person is owed an early gift by the one on the receiving end of the message. So if my dad says Christmas Eve Gift! first to me, then I owe him a gift right then. We mostly leave off the gift exchange part, but find a lot of pride in being the winner. My whole family is in on this tradition: grandmothers, aunts, uncles, cousins. You dare not answer the phone on Christmas Eve saying hello or you'll be had. I have found one of the best ways to win is to shout the tiding from my bed. My dad is always awake before me, though, and has a sixth sense about when I'm going to shout. We usually tie.

Christmas Day. Magical. I'd be filled with such excitement the night before, I could hardly go to sleep. I'd tell myself, the sooner you go to sleep, the sooner it will be here! I love those fluttery feelings of excitement over everyone opening gifts and oohing and aahing. Seeing the plate of cookies I'd left for Santa filled with crumbs, evidence that he'd seen my note and read my words a gift in itself. The day simply lingers on and honestly, that's one of the best parts. The order was/is: gifts from Santa, unwrapped, displayed by the tree. Gifts to one another. Stockings. Brunch at my granny's. Cousins. Family. Being together and being happy. Contentment in it's truest form.

Christmas Gift. Same as Christmas Eve Gift! just on the 25th and drop the Eve.

Married Christmas. Since Justin and I got married, we started some traditions of our own. We save a cutting from our tree stump, and write on it the date and where we're living. The next year, I tie ribbon through the stump and it becomes an ornament. I can't convince him to hug the tree with me, but he will at least smile for a quick pic. Another tradition we started was celebrating Advent. Lighting a progression of candles each Sunday in December symbolizing the coming of Light into the world.

These are just a handful of some of my favorite traditions. A few others would be: making Martha Washingtons, putting up Christmas cards from scattered family and friends, meticulously wrapping gifts, watching some Christmas classics on TV, being silly with my cousin Kelly, littles playing, telling my dad to tell Santa Claus I've been a good girl, baking in the kitchen with my mama.

We feel rich this year to have some time to go home for Christmas. This is the first year in all the years I've known Justin that he has Christmas Eve and Christmas Day off work (other than last year when we were in between travel assignments).

Let the traditions continue.

We are very rich, indeed.

/ / /

A note to keep it real...

I just painted a picture for you of all my favorite memories, the ones I chose to share. While they are all true, I feel like I need to issue this disclaimer: we are not a perfect family. We each have our own flaws and are selfish by nature. I am pretty sure there were a couple Christmases we left the tree lot in a huff because I was pouting about the tree not being big enough or tall enough or the one I wanted. I am certain there were years where frustrations were high and grace was low and we all got our feelings hurt.

But here's the crux of it all: at the end of the day, we are family and we love each other greatly. We forgive hurt feelings and we won't allow drama to reign. When I think of Christmases past, I don't dwell on the times we ticked one another off or the tree I didn't get. Instead, I remember all those beautiful memories above and strive to make more of those and less of the other.

Old Flat Top

2011-12-21T00:00:00.013-06:00

What would you say if I told you Justin and I found this gem of a vintage camper in the East village,

we just couldn't help ourselves and now we are the proud new owners?

You would say, Molly, you are lying.

And I would say, Busted.

I grew up going camping with my grandparents and I loved it.

I think Old Flat Top would have made a nice addition to the Rigo family.

I could've decorated the mess out of that old fella.

Next Christmas, we might just show up on your doorstep a la National Lampoon's style.

Santa Claus came to town. Mrs. Claus, too.

2011-12-20T00:00:00.087-06:00

My very own Santa Claus came to New York City and brought my mama with him.

We all have a slight affinity for Angry Birds.

We did a bit of window shopping.

Pausing to get a special sendoff from the FAO toy soldiers for some of our favorite little friends at home.

Oh the memories of Cabbage Patch Kids.
FAO was commemorating the 1983 doll, the one that came out the year I was born. Serendipity.

When I was four, I got to pick out my own baby, Leoni, at the Cabbage Patch Hospital.

Leoni had a friend who looked just like this doll with the sailor dress and all... she belonged to my friend Anne.
We were good little mamas.

Next up, the Apple store. I think my mom and I were still mesmerized by FAO.

It was my Dad's turn to play.

He said, I bet Angry Birds would be awesome on an iPad.

We had a special date to see the Radio City Rockettes.

Thom Filicia decked their halls this year.

Such a beautiful show and so very worth it.

Introducing my parents to The Tree. We're old friends now.

I loved seeing the look of wide-eyed wonder on my mom's face. I know the exact way she was feeling.

Meanwhile, I think J was looking for Liz Lemon.

Dinner at The Smith. Get the jalapeño cheese grits.

Dad and I made a stop by one of our favorite local bakeries to get treats for Mama and J. And us.

I like the sight of them at the subway. They make me proud adapting to city life so well.

Apparently, Santa and his helpers ride the subway, too.

On our way to shop the holiday markets at Grand Central and Union Square,

Mama and I heard Junior's cheesecake calling our names.

The look on my mom's face says it all.

Santas in Grand Central getting ready for a flash mob.

Holiday market shopping with cider.

It was good, but not as good as the Rigo Swazzle.

Dropping by Chelsea Market, home to the Food Network, another family fave.

Making a garland for our little tree.

Sunday morning we went to Brooklyn and heard some of the most amazing music I've ever heard.

Dinner at Molly's Irish Pub. This place is swiftly becoming one of my favorite places in the city.

The wood burning fireplace makes the place feel especially cozy on such chilly nights.

Family Almost Christmas Dinner.

J carving his very first turkey which was amazing. He won the title of Official Turkey Cooker.

I am a fortunate woman... my husband loves my parents and my parents love my husband.

We had big nights out and cozy nights in.

It was a very merry Almost Christmas with the people I love most.

baby, it's finally cold outside

2011-12-19T00:00:00.057-06:00

It's 28 degrees as I type this, the coldest it's been this season in NYC other than the freak Halloween snow storm.

Our neighbors have an alarm clock that has been going off every 6 minutes for the past 24 hours. I almost don't even notice it anymore. I think they might've already taken off for the holidays and forgot to reset their clock. Justin thinks they might be dead. Let's hope it's the former.

I heard a little girl tell her mother what she wanted for Christmas as I was walking down the sidewalk.
She was maybe seven...
"A pink scooter. A tattoo on my forehead. Neon yellow hair. Oh! and 42 iPads."
The mom replied: Why would you need 42 iPads? You only have one set of hands.
Daughter: So I can play all the games at the same time while I text.
The mom: What games would you play?
Daughter: Angry Birds, Scrabble and all the other ones.
Brother, who's maybe four, chimes in: But 22 of them need to be Kindle Fires.

The subways are filled with folks going home for the holidays evidenced by suitcases on wheels and bags overflowing with festively wrapped gifts. I can't help but wonder where they're going, who all they will visit, what gifts they chose. Even though it's crazy crowded, I love it.

I try to look up as much as possible when I walk. Christmas trees and strings of lights and wreaths dot apartment windows and balconies from the ground floor all the way to the sky.

I have always wished for a certain experience in New York and today it finally happened. I hopped on the subway at our neighborhood stop. I quickly found a seat and settled in for my ride. I glanced up and noticed a girl in a beautiful green peacoat. And then I realized the girl wearing that pretty number was my friend Ashley. On the same train. In my same subway car. She lives in Queens. I live in Manhattan. What are the odds? It's a small world even in this big city.

The last time I took a cab, I was on my way to a friend's for a little party. I was wearing a fancy dress with absolutely no shame. The air was crisp. Little Drummer Boy belted from the radio. Christmas tree vendors were selling firs to young and old alike. Christmas might have arrived at that very moment for me.

We celebrated my parents' Christmas visit to the city with a family dinner, just the four of us. Our tree twinkled, Pandora rocked seasonal tunes, everyone contributed their own special dish, candles flickered. We laughed. We ate. We took our time and didn't rush. We were altogether and right where we wanted to be. There was something so special about that night. Almost like a little voice whispered to me, Don't forget this. I found myself answering, As if I could.

Christmas magic doesn't only occur on December 25th.

Tender moments and comical ones, too, are all around us, daring us to pause and be captivated. I don't want to rush through these days or allow them to pass me by in a flash.

If Little Drummer Boy is going play, I am going to listen. And probably sing along, too.

Don't forget this.

As if I could.

The Brazen Me + It's almost Christmas!

2011-12-16T00:00:00.001-06:00

I started doing posts called The Brazen Me on September 28, almost three months ago.

I've updated you a few times on my journey toward becoming a more healthy me.

So far, I have lost 8 pounds.

Not as much as I'd like to report, but at least moving in the right direction.

I have lacked in the determination department as of late. It's hard to break habits, no?

Here's what I know: I desire to be wholly healthy.

Not just physically, but emotionally, relationally, spiritually.

Thanks so much to those of you cheering me on along this journey.

/ / /

In other news... Y'all. Christmas is almost here!

Festive decor has been finding it's way to our apartment since Thanksgiving.

Justin told me he never knew we'd pay money for pinecones.

My response: Yeah, but these smell like cinnamon.

J: They smell like money.

You can see who's the spender and who's the saver, no?

Good things coming next week, friends. Good things.

The big ole blog revamp probably won't make an appearance until 2012, but you never know.

I do love a good surprise.

Merry Almost Christmas, friends!

party of four

2011-12-15T00:00:00.007-06:00

Last night, I put on a fancy dress from asos, stained my lips red, threw on my cowgirl boots

and grabbed a cab heading south to Colleen's for a little Christmas partay.

Colleen and her pal Tina posing with one of the many delicacies of the evening...

Colleen's chocolate pecan pie. Ohmyworditwasdamngood.

We minded our manners and had dinner first.

And then we got down to business with dessert. And wine, of course.

Tina made gingerbread with real whipped cream with a citrusy twist.

I could have slapped somebody.

Colleen and I wished for some of our blogger buddies to be with us. One day we'll have one big party.

Here's looking at you, kid.

One of each, thankyouverymuch.

Party of four.

The striking redhead on the far left? That's Tina. She works for Tory Burch.

And guess what she brought with her in addition to that yummy gingerbread?

One-of-a-kind Tory scarves for all.

Once we finally picked our jaws up off the floor, we managed a group pic with our lovely gifts.

My beautiful navy leopard Tory. I couldn't have picked out a better one.

Thank you, Tina!

I stopped by J's work to see him on my way home from my big night.

The plate of goodies the girls sent with me lasted oh about five minutes.

Oh well. 'Tis the season for sharing.

And Tory Burch scarf wearing.

'round here // edition my brain is only working in lists

2011-12-14T03:25:00.005-06:00

I'm baaaack, blogworld! We so loved having my parents in the city with us to experience all the magic that is Manhattan at Christmas. I thought I'd give you a little list of things dancing around in my head to tide you over a bit while I edit some fifty'leven pics to share with you. Plus my brain is only operating in List Mode these days, so a list it will be. Sound good? Let's do it.

No. 1 I have missed you guys! Being away from the blog and the twitter is nice once and a while, but I am happy to be here talking it up with you all again.

No. 2 Speaking of twitter...Twitter is like texting all your blogfriends that you would text if they were your real life friends. And then some of them even become your real life friends and the lines get blurry, but I digress. Back to twitter. I was so skeptical and all why do I need to know if you are going to the bathroom at Starbucks at 4:09pm? And then this lady talked me into joining and I've never looked back. If you are on the fence, just do it and then tweet me when you go to the bathroom at Starbucks.

No. 3 We won a turkey. It's a long story, but here's the evidence. All 15 pounds of it.

No. 4 My mom being in town means J got a much needed haircut. I make an okay substitute, but she's the real haircutter for the men in the family.

No. 5 My mom and dad being in town also means fried cornbread and deviled eggs. To accompany the free turkey, obvi. South Alabama food at it's finest.

No. 6 Vintage Christmas lives on. I have a garland on my little tree. My dad and I made it out of cranberries and oranges. I love it so.

No. 7 Christmas cards have started filling our mailbox making me a giddy mess. They have taken up residence in our entry so I can see all the merriment and glad tidings on my way to and fro.

No. 8 I found this purse moonlighting as a camera bag and I am officially in love. You can find it here. Ahem, Christmas hint.

No. 9 I'm still working on some Christmas gift creativity. And if I make a success of it, I will definitely show you the fruits of my labor. If it's a bust, just pretend I never said anything.

No. 10 Speaking of fruit, I promise not to leave you hanging with anymore posts about pineapples for a while.

No. 11 I'm going to hang with this friend tonight. She's one of my blog friends turned real life friend and now she's on the twitter train, too. I think there will be baking and wine drinking invlolved.

No. 12 I hope we're still friends, blogworld. I like you too much to quit you. Plus, you've given me some pretty legit friends out of this deal. Ones that email you after they put their kids to bed and make you cry a million happy tears and make wish you could reach out and hug'em. Thanks for that.

signed,
yours truly

the pineapple

2011-12-13T00:00:00.015-06:00

I love a pineapple.

Not only are they tasty, but they represent hospitality.

And if there's one thing I long to be, it's hospitable.

Justin bought it for me as a surprise and I love it so.

My little pineapple is really suppose to be an ornament, but after traveling around our apartment,

I think it's made it's home next to the books on our window ledge.

I love the gentle nudge... be kind, love well, show grace.

When I sell liquor, it's called bootlegging;

when my patrons serve it on Lake Shore Drive, it's called hospitality.

Al Capone

Christmas is a season for kindling the fire of hospitality in the hall,

the genial flame of charity in the heart.

Washington Irving

the lights will inspire you

2011-12-12T00:00:00.008-06:00

Buying that $8 pack of vintage lights was one of the best decisions I've made this season.

I can't help but get excited and all The Season Is Here! when I see them.

And there's something else, too...

I'm feeling inspired to craft to create to make things. Big Time.

I'm wanting to make as many gifts as possible this year... which is kinda hard since all my crafty tools are in storage.

But I am determined to craft away, regardless.

Afterall, these lights have inspired me and I must respond with some rockin' creativity.

creative quote + print by one of my fave crafty and inspired bloggers, elise blaha.

'round here

2011-12-09T00:00:00.014-06:00

My beautiful and oh so talented friend Candis and I have been collaborating on a little blog facelift for yours truly... complete with a new blog name and all.

I am so excited, y'all.

When the new 'do is complete, you and I are gonna celebraaaate!

So get your partypants ready, friends.

All of our Christmas cards have been mailed.

And it's a good thing, too...

Because these cute folks of mine arrived in NYC on Wednesday!

We're off to shop holiday markets and drink swazzle and be merry.

Happy weekend, friends!

Make it a merry one.

a festive night out

2011-12-08T00:00:00.015-06:00

Last week, Justin and I meet up with Colleen and one of her pals.

We passed Rolf''s on the way to dinner.

They haven't really decided if they are going to decorate for the holidays or not.

Molly's Irish Pub was our destination.

Their decor was cheery and not as inyoface.

I really wanted this place to be good since we share a name and all.

And let me tell you, best blue cheese burger I've ever had.

As we were leaving, we saw an interesting sight.

A big truck carrying Christmas trees at a complete halt in the middle of the street.

A guy on the truck talking to a guy standing in the road.

And then this happened...

That's one way to buy a tree in NYC.

The proud new owners.

That's one of the many reasons I love New York.

You never know what you are going to encounter, but you are assured one heck of a good time.

decking the halls

2011-12-07T00:00:00.009-06:00

With all of our Christmas decor in storage in Alabama, I've had to get creative with decking our halls.

One night, a couple weeks ago, Justin and I sat on the couch together and made paper chains while we watched TV.

I think I got a little carried away and began paperchaining anything that would stand still.

In other decking the hall news, the little yarn wreath lends a festive touch to our bar.

Our tree guy gave me some tree stumps. I'll be using them for candle bases eventually.

Right now they sit on our window ledge making the place smell good.

ps... that's J's grandmother in that pic. I love it so. She looks all old Hollywood glam.

This bunting has been up since Valentine's Day. I can't quit it and I have come to terms with that.

Will you deck your halls?

Tell me tell me tell me, please.

In case you haven't been properly introduced...

2011-12-06T00:00:00.005-06:00

Blogworld, meet Rigobaby.

Rigobaby, meet blogworld.

Back when I meet up with these fly ladies in Boston, I knew they'd all be bringing one thing that I didn't have...

A baby boy born within the past 12 months.

So I got busy and made a baby. With construction paper and lots of love.

Justin was at work that particular night.

I texted him, I made a baby.

Safe to say, he was a bit confused.

Maybe one day, blogworld, I will be able to introduce you to a real Rigobaby.

Until then, you have to admit, paper Rigobaby is kinda cute.

O Christmas Tree decorations

2011-12-05T00:10:00.056-06:00

This was our first year to buy a Christmas tree in NYC.

Makeshift tree farms began springing up all over the city the week of Thanksgiving.

I could hardly wait to get our own.

The first time we attempted to get The Rigo Family Christmas tree, the guy selling them was high as a kite.

Justin asked him if the dimebag was free with purchase of the tree or if it was extra.

Through squinty eyes, he gave a mellow, Oh, I don't know, man.

Not quite the quaint experience I was hoping for, so we decided to try another place.

And I am so glad we did.

The beautiful tree farm. Just regular ole Fraser Firs. No dimebags. The way Christmas should be.

This is Jared. He's from Canada. He was a good tree guy.

As in he was friendly and loved our accents and wasn't high.

Justin and Jared could've chatted it up all night.

But I was really excited to get our little tree home.

Canadian Jared bides his time whittling reindeer. So cute, I know.

Us, happy.

J sizing up the tree, I suppose.

I typically go for white lights on our tree, but this year I wanted to change it up.

These big ole colorful vintage bulbs called my name all the way from the Harlem Target.

The back of our apartment, all merry and bright.

A glittery snowflake as a tree topper. Thank you, Tarjay dolla bin.

And a striped little dolla bin tablecloth-turned-tree-skirt.

Some traditional red and green that hasn't actually made it's way to the tree yet.

For now, our sweet little tree stands proudly, simply boasting lights and a skirt and a glittery topper.

Later, I might add some vintage decor...

Think popcorn + cranberry chains and dried orange slices.

Bur for now? I think it's kinda perfect. Sweet and simple and perfect.

With nary a dimebag in sight.

It's beginning to look a lot like the weekend

2011-12-02T06:05:00.016-06:00

It's also beginning to look and smell a lot like Christmas in our apartment.

We purchased our first New York City Christmas tree.

More to come on that next week.

We attempted a family pic with the tree.

Yeah, we'll be doing that over.

We've got some toys to deliver.

Some holiday magazines to read and some treats to enjoy.

Thanks to a special package from home.

But mostly? It's the weekend, y'all, and I am looking forward to relaxing with my man

and taking in all the holiday festiveness around us.

And maybe taking a less blurry pic with our tree.

ps... I know you are eyeballin' my Iviemade pillow.

You should put anything Iviemade on your wishlist this season.

There's even Iviebaby. Trust me, you will love it so.

all lit up

2011-12-01T00:00:00.027-06:00

I was little when I knew I wanted to go New York City at Christmas to see the Rockefeller tree.

Justin and I moved to Manhattan the day before they took the tree down last January.

We did see it and my childhood dream was greatly fulfilled,

but I still wanted to see it lit up for the very first time this season.

So we got to 30Rock really early.

I was giddy as we waited...

and waited some more.

So giddy, in fact, I had crazy eyes in this pic of J and me.

I'll just say visions of Christmas trees danced in my head. That sounds right.

Trying to redeem the crazy.

Almost ready.

Oh, hey there, Neil. I think we just saw each other last week, remember? Glad you could make it.

And tada! All lit up and so very beautiful.

30,000 lights on a 75 foot Norway Spruce... similar to what you guys get every year, no?

My man deserves something way awesome for toughing out the wait amongst all the Justin Bieber twerps.

And me? I'm still kinda awestruck over the tree coming to life right in front of me.

My nine-year-old self would forgive the giddy crazyeyes. Maybe you will, too.

National Novel Writing Month that is turning into two

2011-11-30T00:00:00.003-06:00

source: Samantha Lamb

So remember that novel I was going to write in one month?

Looks like it's going to spill over into two months.

I am trying to be okay with that. Here's what I've learned so far in the process...

Writing, like anything else, takes discipline.

Some days the words come easy and some days not so much.

Characters will come alive and guide the story if you let them.

And when that happens, it's pretty magical and you step back and go, Damn.

It's good to have friends who are strong, creative souls doing the thing along with you.

They understand when you email things like, This is insane! Why am I doing this?!

And then they remind you, You can do this. Take a break and come back to it. In the end, when you hold your novel in your hands, you will be so glad you stuck with it.

I think writing a novel makes you one part genius, one part crazypants.

Word count and character count are two very different things. But we've already established that.

Talent is cheap. What matters is discipline. ANDRÉ DUBUS

unsung heroes + parade tips

2011-11-29T00:00:00.111-06:00

One of my favorite moments of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade occurred just after the horses trotted passed.

The Sanitation Team aka pooperscoopers came strolling along and the crowd burst out with applause.

The more we applauded, the more they hammed it up for us.

Good job, fellas. Good job.

Here are my suggestions for parade success...

Arrive early.

We arrived at Central Park West and 67th at 6am and we were some of the last people to get a spot on the front row.

Dress in layers and don't forget your feet.

Amber's toes were a bit frosty in the 30 degree chill.

Drink at your own risk.

You will want to drink hot coffee and lots of it because it's early and it's cold.

But then you'll probably need a restroom and those are scarce.

Either get happy about using a port-a-potty or make friends in the hour and half long line at Starbucks.

Go with friends.

It's way more fun to spot RuPaul when you're with people you love.

Take your camera.

Duh.

Make brunch reservations for after the parade.

Here or here or here.

The parade finished at our spot (CPW & 67th) around 12noon and we had reservations for 12:30pm.

Perfect timing.

Clear your schedule for the morning and the afternoon.

You will be happy and full and you will want to take a nap. Trust me.

Check out other great tips at one of my fave blogs NYC taught me.

a note to myself + scenes from a very happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-28T00:00:00.067-06:00

Dear 15-year-old Molly,

You're watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade while Mama makes the ambrosia that Uncle Tom loves so much and Dad sharpens the turkey carving knives.

You sit crossed legged on the den floor still amazed at all those big floats just like when you were 5.

Snoopy is still your favorite even as a teenager.

You will wonder today if you will ever get to visit New York City.

Mama says maybe we could all visit one day with someone who has been to NYC before, who can help us navigate the big city.

You sigh and think to yourself, Maybe so.

But how about this?

One day you will be married to a man that makes you more happy than every boyfriend combined.

I know you can't imagine it now, but it's true.

And not only will he make you happy, but he will take you on adventures you really only dreamed about.

You will not only see the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade with your very own eyes, but you will live in that big city you've loved for so long.

And your parents will come visit you and you will be the one to help them navigate your big city because it is, in fact, your home.

It will be magical. Just you wait.

Signed,

your grownup self

my NYC friend Amber and her parents visiting from Texas

this made me want to bake something

As this guy was approaching I said to Amber, Look it's RuPaul!
Yeah, I totally meant Paul Frank.

That's Julius the monkey, one of Paul Frank's most famed cartoon characters.

At least I got the Paul part right.

he's still my favorite one of all

Alabama's Homewood band represented us well

as did Mobile's trail maids

What's Thanksgiving without Neil Diamond? This is America, after all.

In the air one minute...

and directly in front of me the next. Spiderman is nothing if not stealthy.

My Dad would have loved hearing these guys.

And then... and then!

It's Santa Claus! Let Christmas officially begin.

Unfortunately, Justin's work schedule didn't allow him to join us at the parade,

but we did have an amazing meal with our friends.

Amber's berry cobbler was the star of the show.

We did it. We celebrated Thanksgiving in NYC.

It's been our home for nearly a year now.

It really is better than I ever could have imagined.

Told you so, Molly Mitchell. Told you so.

thankfulness of heart

2011-11-23T00:00:00.000-06:00

Rockwell source

I was sitting on my couch in my New York City apartment making the final check over my Thanksgiving meal grocery list when the feeling nearly overwhelmed me... I have much for which to be thankful.

A husband who makes me feel loved and valued and protected. He makes me laugh and he's super handsome, too.

My family who mean the absolute world to me, who hold places in my heart like none other.

An array of lovely and talented friends. Some I've known for years, others I just met this year.

Health and shelter and sustenance. Even more, I have luxuries like soft pillows and extra blankets. Stacks of books and a stocked pantry. Wardrobe choices and jewelry and perfume.

I hate the cyclical trap of thinking I need more, desiring to have more... when really I am surrounded by more love than some people will ever know.

And at the end of the day, that's all I really want.

To love and to be loved.

And that's my wish for you, too.

Whoever you are, wherever you are, I hope you are surrounded by people who love you fiercely.

To be happy at home is the ultimate result of all ambition.

Samuel Johnson

For the joy of human love, brother, sister, parent, child;
Friends on Earth and friends above, for all gentle thoughts and mild;
Lord of all, to Thee we raise
This, our hymn of grateful praise.

For the Beauty of the Earth, Folliot Pierpoint

When I started counting my blessings, my whole life turned around.

Willie Nelson

Happy Thanksgiving, all.

You are loved.

a peek sneak

2011-11-22T00:00:00.027-06:00

We took our Christmas card pictures last weekend... here's a little peek for you of my man.
He wanted to keep it real with functional flannel and a nod to the Kurt Cobain look of his high school days.
Our friend Amber was our photographer for the day.
She asked us what we were thinking for the shoot, what ideas we had.
Justin answered, "I'm thinking our vibe this year is provocative."

Maybe our cards should read, Merry Provocative Christmas from The Cobains.

And there you have it.

Thanksgiving last year was a bust

2011-11-21T00:00:00.030-06:00

source

Last year, Justin and I spent our Thanksgiving in the bed with a stomach flu.

It was awful.

We couldn't even think about turkey and all the fixins without making a run for the bathroom.

This year, Lord willing, will be a different story.

Justin has to work on Thanksgiving Day, so we will be staying in NYC.

Here's how we are going to celebrate...

Skype with my family in Alabama and maybe some friends, too.

Turn on some tunes, pour a glass of wine and get in the kitchen with my man and cook cook cook.

Celebrate with gracious friends with a big ole meal on Friday.

Make a classic southern dish for J's northern coworkers.

Go to the parade. And maybe even watch the process.

Watch the Iron Bowl. Shop holiday markets. Drink the Rigo Swazzle.

And then say hello to one of The Most Wonderful Times of the Year.

How are you celebrating? Are you traveling? Are you staying put?

I will miss being with my family, but being in NYC on Thanksgiving?

It's kind of it's own form of magic and we are determined to celebrate every minute.

Questions Answered, part 8

2011-11-18T00:00:00.017-06:00

You thought I had forgotten about the little deal we made, didn't you?

The one where I said you could ask me anything and I would answer you?

I didn't forget, friends!

So, here we go.

. . .

Q: What do you want to be when you grow up?

. . .

Oh, I like this! Let's see, when I grow up, I want to be...

A mother.

A mama, actually. I don't want to be called Mother. Too formal for my blood.

An even better wife to Justin.

I hope I am a good wife now, but I don't ever want to get to a place where I think I've arrived.

I always want to be good for him, good to him.

Published.

It makes me so nervous to even type that out, like I'm gonna jinx it or something.

But I said I'd be honest, so there. Now you know.

A good listener.

Really hear what people are saying, and not merely with their words.

A knitter.

A really talented one like Whitney. I want to be all, Oh, this fly sweater? Yeah, I made it.

A painter.

I love the idea of painting and wonder what might happen if I really tried.

credit

I'd want to have an easel on my porch out in the country and paint like Allie Hamilton did in The Notebook.

A friend you'd want to have.

I read a quote on pinterest last week that said something like, Be the kind of friend you'd want to meet.

I want to be that kind of person.

And last but not least...

A salsa dancer.

Ummm, hello! Those ladies have some serious moooves.

When I was in kindergarten, I wanted to be an astronaut and

when I was in middle school, I wanted to be a nurse.

I lost interest in the first and married the other,

so I'd say my chances are pretty good for accomplishing at least part of this list.

Happy Friday to you and you and you.

'round here

2011-11-17T00:00:00.008-06:00

I don't want to take for granted the little things in life that make my heart happy.

colorful Fall leaves outside our apartment

a headband that stayed in place while I ran around in the rain

apples nestled into bags

vibrant hued flowers at the bodega

things on my table

the shadow of my umbrella and my very own feet on the ground in this city I love

Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not;

Remember that what you have now was once among the things you only hoped for.

Epicurus

The Brooklyn Art Library

2011-11-16T00:00:00.000-06:00

The Brooklyn Art Library in Williamsburg, Brooklyn is home to The Sketchbook Project.

“The Sketchbook Project is a collaborative series of art books created by thousands of artists from around the world.

Anyone- from anywhere in the world- can participate in the project.

Your work will be cataloged in The Brooklyn Art Library. ”

You can check out finished sketchbooks at The Brooklyn Art Library for your enjoyment.

“Whether you have a second cousin who participated in the project, an inexplicable fascination with Iceland, or a love of pop-up books, we will be able to find a sketchbook for you. ”

“The library also functions as a storefront purveyor of notebooks,

art supplies, stationary and vintage ephemera.

So if you're feeling inspired after browsing through the archive of visual inspiration,

we'll have everything you need to start working on your own projects.”

Vintage ephemera, indeed.

Cool things around every corner.

I wanted every artistic soul I've ever known to be able to experience this place.

Amy, Lindsay, Rachel M, Amber, E, DrewJones came to mind...

I loved this place and I'm so going back.

Now if I could get the gumption to particpate in The Sketchbook Project myself...

By Popular Request // The Swazzle Recipe

2011-11-15T00:00:00.059-06:00

The Rigo Swazzle

our version of wassail or cider

apple cider

an orange

cinnamon sticks

Many of you were curious about our delicious swazzle recipe, so I thought I'd share it with you.

+ You'll need apple cider juice, not to be confused with kid style apple juice. Ahem, side eye, Justin.

Use the whole gallon if you are making swazzle for a group of folk or simply pour the amount you and yours will consume into a boiler.

+ Slice up the orange, leaving the peel on and place it in the boiler.

If you are making a smaller portion of swazzle, use only a small portion of the orange.

Example: For two mugfulls, I'd use two orange slices approximately 1/2 inch thick.

+ Next up: cinnamon sticks. Use three sticks for the whole gallon, just one stick for a smaller portion.

Place your cinnamon sticks in a square of cheesecloth and then tie up your bundle.

This will allow the cinnamon to flavah your swazzle, but will filter the spices.

+ Now that your cider, orange slices and cinnamon bundle are in the boiler, bring your swazzle to a boil.

+ Then turn on low and simmer for 15 minutes, uncovered, stirring occasionally.

The smell alone will make you want to slap somebody.

And then. And then!

Pour yourself a mugfull of swazzle it will be hott!,

turn on some spirited seasonal tunes, sit by the fire bundled in your tartan throw,

and tell all the people around you how much you love The Rigo Swazzle,

I mean, how much you love them.

Change it up:

Add clove, allspice, nutmeg to your cinnamon bundle.

Add a shot of brandy or rum if you are feeling especially jolly.

Making the swazzle in your crockpot works really well for serving a larger group.

Crockpot directions: Bring ingredients to a small boil on high, then simmer on low for 15 minutes and serve.

Now go make some Rigo Swazzle. And try not to slap anybody.

It's all fancy all the time and I'll prove it

2011-11-14T00:00:00.029-06:00

Last week, I knew we'd hit the ultimate in our fancy lives with His & Hers cough medicine.

Not only is it fancy, but it's really sexy, too.

In other equally exciting and fancy news, we are now the proud owners of a new

Crooooockpooooot! (Oprah voice)

Our original crock, gifted to us when we married, is packed away in storage in Alabama.

We survived one NYC winter without our beloved crock and we shan't do it again...

because nothing equals a fancy meal like throwing a ton of ingredients in one bigA pot and watching the thing do it's magic.

Hello potato soup and chili and all other forms of crockery goodness.

Here's one last fancy gem from us Rigo's...Swazzle.

That's what my man calls it. Perhaps you call it wassail or cider.

However you say it, the swazzle is here and as you can tell, it's very fancy and highly difficult to make.

Here's your one chance, Fancy, don't let me down. Name that tune.

Put your lips on, baby // part 2

2011-11-11T00:00:00.014-06:00

Here's the first part of Sassy's trip to NYC in case you missed it.

And here's the quick version: Sassy is one of my bff's and she visited us in NYC last week.

We walked the Brooklyn Bridge, a sure bet for making your friends fall in love with the Big Apple.

And then we took it a step further with authentic NYC pizza and a Brooklyn brew.

The next day was magical, I kid you not.

All sorts of activity made Central Park come alive on that crisp November day.

These littles played soccer...

while these raced sailboats.

We found a spot at The Boathouse and parked it for about three hours, talking and crying and laughing.

We made our way over to one of my favorite spots, Bethesda Fountain, and then the magic really began.

The sunlight on the water caught my breath as I reached for my camera.

I could tell you that a violinist and a cellist played Canon in D by Pachelbel as we made our way to the glowing fountain,

but you wouldn't believe me.

But it really did happen.

And then fairies danced a jig.

Okay, so they weren't actual fairies. Busted.

We experienced a benefit to the wack snowstorm of Halloween: an emptied view of The Mall.

That's Allison and me in the middle, finding our center and all that.

Sassy lives two hours from Pinkberry and I live two blocks from one, so at her request, we indulged.

Then we brought a little bit of The South to NYC and cheered on The Crimson Tide at

The Ainsworth, the designated bar for Bama fans.

Our Alabama IDs allowed us to bypass a huge line. Proud moment.

She looked at me at one point during her visit and said,

"Mols, did you ever think, ten years ago, that we'd be here in New York City because you live here with your husband and you love it?!"

If you had told me that was going to happen, I probably wouldn't have believed you.

That's the thing about magic... it catches you unaware and steals your breath every single time.

Put your lips on, baby

2011-11-10T00:00:00.004-06:00

Her name is Allison, but you will hear me call her Sassy or Sassy Lou.

We go way back.

I know that sudden noises make her jumpy and she knows that birds, especially the pigeon variety, creep me out.

She knows what I'm thinking, which is scary, but also pretty cool.

She just gets me. And I get her.

Before one of Sassy's dates with her man, one of her friends told her, Put your lips on, baby.

One simple little nudge became a coined phrase for us.

So now, when we know adventure awaits, that phrase sums it up... Put your lips on, baby.

So we began Sassy's trip with a champagne toast.

J and Sassy were friends before J and I were friends.

Now we're all friends and I like that.

My Selena curl tried to be classy at our champagne toast.

Black + White cookies are one of our favorite ways to welcome friends to the city.

We got an early start the next morning.

First stop, Union Square where this leaf literally floated right into Allison's hand.

pretty Union Square

Next stop, Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

We tried on a big fat diamond and then J taught Allison how to spot hipsters.

We made a stop by Mast Brothers Chocolate.

Serrano Pepper is the way to go.

J was feeling a bit tired at this point.

Modca was a great little coffee shop + bakery that gave us the sugar kick we needed.

Samson by Regina Spektor was playing in the background.

It was a perfect moment with two of the people who know me best... and love me anway.

a Wednesday afternoon post

2011-11-09T12:42:00.001-06:00

Yesterday afternoon, I was feeling so much better.

I could make it nearly a whole 5 minutes without hacking up a lung.

I was all, This is living!

I sent a couple emails, caught up on some blog reading, talked with my parents and even got on The Twitter.

As visions of a blog post danced in my head, the sickness came back with a vengeance & mocked my blogger self right to bed.

On the plus side, I am now a fan of Up All Night, the television show.

Here's a couple recent happenings I've been trying to tell you about, you know, before the consumption took me down...

Our view of the NYC Halloween parade. I bet it was awesome if you actually got to see it.

We mostly saw the tops of heads.

After the parade, we met up with my pal Colleen. You may remember her from our first date.

We met on the internets, thankyoublogworld.

We had a delish burger and a toasted marshmellow milkshake from Stand. Heaven help, it was goood.

Colleen also got to meet my man.

They became fast friends and he earned a new nickname.

Dan Flanders, for his stellar advice giving ways.

Now meet Shana and her man, Matt.

Shana and Justin and I went to college together.

Isn't she beautiful? She's real smart and funny, too.

On their recent trip to NYC, we made plans to hang out with them in the subway station.

We also went to The Hurricane Club. You can be jealous now.

And I am fairly certain my hair made even the late Selena roll over with envy.

Edit: I'm not really jazzed about my Selena hair, just so you know. No offense, Selena.

That's all for now. I'm out.

I pretty much feel awful.

2011-11-08T00:00:00.001-06:00

original source unknown

Sorry I have been absent, friends.

I've got a sinus infection or cold or someothersuchnonsense making me feel yucky.

My husband has been awesome, making me hot tea and potato soup.

One of my best friends came for a visit and we had a blast, even if I didn't feel sprightly.

And that novel I'm writing? It's yelling at me to Get back to work! Don't forget about me!

But right now all I can do is muster up enough energy to make my way from the couch to the bed, from the bed to the couch.

Want to know something that made my day? A sweet friend & blog reader sent me a Starbucks gift card. Out of the blue. Makes all those days typing away for this blog of mine worth it. To know that someone gets me, that they like me enough to gift me with coffee... well, it makes my heart happy.

Hang with me, friends.

Good things a'coming.

ps... How are you feeling? Hope you are happy and well.

National Novel Writing Month

2011-11-03T00:00:00.031-05:00

source: Samantha Lamb

aka I Knowingly Signed Up For This Insanity.

So the deal is very much like the title says. You and a bunch of other people commit to writing a novel in a month.

So I was all determined...
If I don't accept this challenge now, when will I ever start?
This is as good a time as any.
I just need to do the damn thing already.

I even started early because one of my best friends is coming to see me November 2-6, which means she's here already, yay! But I wanted to get a head start so I wouldn't feel behind.

So start early, I did. I've got another friend doing this thing along with me and we decided to keep each other in check. Update one another with word counts twice a week or so. Email it out when we reach a point of struggle with our plot.

I emailed Elizabeth last week: 2,040 added to the word count. Holla!

I was on top of it, yo.

I sat down with my words yesterday morning ready to crank out another thousand or so. I was feeling good about my characters and where they were taking me.

I checked my word count again, ready to email Elizabeth with my most recent status.

5,882. Hells yes! Such a great start to this Write-A-Novel-In-A-Month insanity.

And then... And then...

I hate to even tell you this next part...

I had been reading the Number of Characters which, as you know, is quite different from the Total Word Count.

I emailed Elizabeth through laughter, and I'll admit, tears, to say Guess what! I am a fool who can't read numbers correctly and I think I'm gonna be a famous, published author?!?! I thought I had written 5 times as much as I actually had.

I am disappointed with my numbers, yes.

But I am not disappointed with this story. And at the end of the day, I guess that's what matters the most, anyhow.

November 3 Word Count: 2,083.

2,083 words that once did not exist and now they do.

Better than nothing.

Oh and I got an email from another friend yesterday. I've officially dragged another soul into The Insanity with me.

If writing seems hard, it’s because it is hard. WILLIAM ZINSSER

Say my name, Say my name

2011-11-02T00:00:00.010-05:00

source

When I first started this blog of mine, I was not committed. Gasp!
It's true.
I didn't even know A Cup of Jo existed.
In 2008, I posted twice. That's a lie. I posted once and Justin posted once.
2009? Four posts. Doubled my record.
2010? Fifty-one. Things are getting serious.
2011? So far, 150 posts. August, September and October even made a Monday-Friday blogger out of me.

I met a new friend while I was in Boston, Natalie from wishful nals.
She is quite lovely and I wish I'd had more than just a quick chat at Pinkberry with her.
When she asked me the name of my blog, I hesitated...
Mr. and Mrs. Rigoloso in detail all of a sudden seemed like a mouthful.

When I started this thing back in 2008, I never imagined I'd be calling myself a blogger or meeting some of my most beloved bloggers in Boston Of All Places.
I like this blog of mine.
My own little piece of the internets.
I can talk about my man or California or my back popping.
I'm committed. I'm doing this thing.
And I'm ready for a different name. One that makes me happy when I say it.
Don't get me wrong, I love my last name and I love even more the man who gave it to me.
But I am ready to make this gig official and give my blog a proper name.

So here's where you get to play.
What should my new name be?
I'm taking suggestions.
I think this will be fun.
Ready? Go.

The Brazen Me Update // take 3

2011-11-01T00:00:00.007-05:00

Whoever said losing weight was easy must not have had tastebuds.

Or they were liars.

One or the other.

The past two weeks have felt like I'm taking one step forward, two steps back.

I think that's a normal feeling, so I am trying not to be discouraged.

But I desperately want to get back on track. Keeping it real with you guys helps a sista out.

original source unknown

If you doubt you can accomplish something, then you can't accomplish it.

You have to have confidence in your ability, then be tough enough to follow through.

Rosalynn Carter

Here's to being tough enough.

Fred is dead + other Halloween musings

2011-10-31T01:00:00.004-05:00

I hate to be the one to tell you this, but...

Fred is dead.

He came into this world a sprightly little fella.

He didn't even complain when J carved his eyes.

Our community group had a pumpkin carving party last week.

Fred had a great time hanging with his homies.

Fred's bffs.

RIP, Fred, RIP.

In other Halloweenish news, my pal Amber and her roommate threw an awesome costume party.

I mean, the White Swan and the Black Swan threw an awesome party.

edited to add: They totally made those costumes. Rockstars.

Wednesday Addams was on the guest list.

She behaved herself rather well.

Happy Halloweeeeeeen!

a spontaneous Saturday post // a moment I don't want to forget

2011-10-29T14:30:00.001-05:00

My Dad called me from Alabama last night to tell me he'd heard the reports.

New York City was bound to experience the first snow of the season today.

Growing up in the Deep South, I saw snow for the first time when I was thirteen and a freak snow "storm" hit our southeastern corner of Alabama. My Dad and I built a snowman that stood about 8 inches tall, and due to fastly rising temperatures, was subsequently destined to a life in our freezer.

My Mama remembers my little girl self saying, "Someday I want to live some place where it snows. Really snows."

And now I do.

We are two days shy of Halloween and NYC is welcoming it's first snow of the season.

Well, I am welcoming it at least.

Walter, our door man, nearly cussed me as I stepped out our front door to take pictures of the beautiful white magic.

"Pssh, You and your husband love this stuff. Hrmph."

"Yes, yes we do, Walter," I replied.

My phone looks like it's celebrating the chunky flakes along with me.

Our jack-o-lantern, Fred, sits lighted on the coffee table while Justin gets a few more minutes of sleep.

I whispered to both of them, It's snowing.

Fred the Jack gave me a knowing flicker and Justin gave me a tender smile and nodded.

There is food to cook, a Halloween costume to make, laundry that won't do itself.

But for now, I'm going to sit here wearing my man's long sleeved green thermal just a little bit longer watching the sight out my window.

My Dad was right and the wish I told my Mama came true.

It's snowing in New York City.

And I am living here to see it.

Elizabeth and Molly take on Boston

2011-10-28T00:00:00.021-05:00

Elizabeth introduced me to some of her old Boston haunts.

Visiting a city with a friend who already knows and loves that city is magic.

Seeing the city through her eyes, with her perspective... it was a gift in itself.

We stayed downtown at the Lenox. It was impressive and beautiful.

Elizabeth encouraged me to check out The Reading Room at Boston's public library while Everett got a little nourishment.

She knew I needed to see it... I would have been so disappointed to miss this place.

We wandered around Harvard and admired the stately buildings and the turning leaves, but decided this prestigious campus didn't have anything on our alma mater.

We stopped to purchase paperbacks at the Harvard Book Store as is Elizabeth's tradition.

I happily adopted it as my own.

What you see here is a kid in a candy shop and another one behind the camera.

We walked the streets of Beacon Hill gently moving from one topic of conversation to another.

Talking about important matters, appreciating one another's sarcasm, being fully present.

Elizabeth needed a band-aid and I had one to give her.

I needed to tell Elizabeth what a great ass she has and so I did.

Nothing forges great friendships quite like meeting first aid needs and offering sassy compliments about one's body.

We treated ourselves to a hidden gem of Boston.

She told me to order the Hot Beacon Hill Delight, a dessert coffee that will make you want to slap somebody.

That line was for you, Bridget.

I felt like I'd known her for years instead of days.

On Monday, I hugged her and her baby boy goodbye for now and told her how very much I loved her.

And I meant every word.

ps... Next time, we are taking on NYC.

To Boston We Did Go

2011-10-27T00:00:00.000-05:00

The night before my big blogger trip to Boston, I busted out the Crest White Strips as if the next day were my wedding.

Justin helped me finish up some swag to take on my trip while Pandora played in the background.

I wasn't nervous, but rather, giddy knowing that the next day held a grand possibility for some amazing friendships.

And here's how it all went down...

Friday night called for babies in footed pajamas and an evening in at our spacious villa.

Bridget's Parker makes an excellent pajama model.

We talked and ate and drank and laughed until late in the night.

We got all dressed up on Saturday morning for a downtown Boston adventure.

Candis' Westley and Elizabeth's Everett talking about the plans for the day.

Shannon and Behr proved to be resilient city folk and Westley took his first train ride.

Bridget and Elizabeth rocking emo hipster eyewear.

We parked it downtown for a delicious lunch.

I am wholly impressed that mamas can eat while doing song and dance

and a host of other entertainment for babies and still be able to say,

That burger was really good or That pizza is super tastey.

I think it's a learned talent and they've got it mastered.

I love that both Candis and I are rocking the wide-open-mouth smile.

Seeing Bridget and Elizabeth's reflection makes me happy. We must have lost Shannon at this point.

I'm surprised Boston didn't crumble from the weight of sheer awesomeness of these beautiful women.

In line for Pinkberry with E and EE.

Natalie joined us for a sweet treat. She is quite lovely.

My only regret was that our visit was so short.

The babes were getting sleepy so we decided to take it back to our home for the weekend.

Here's the view again from our sunporch if you missed it yesterday.

Candis did a fantastic job finding this dreamy rental for us.

Pretty mamas and babies spinning stories through the night once more.

Everett being all sugary sweet and drooly for Auntie M's camera.

EE and Westley making plans for the next trip.

I think they are saying, Dude, we should totally get our own room next time.

I love this lady.

Candis and W were my roomies at the villa.

We would whisper like school girls after lights out.

I loooved hearing Westley's little baby sighs and coos as I went off to sleep.

Possibly the sweetest sounds I've ever heard.

So what was my favorite part of the weekend?

Seeing Boston? Talking blog shoptalk? Dressing to impress?

Not hardly.

These women are real. They have hopes and dreams for the future.

They have family drama and mothers-in-law and worries.

We laughed together and we cried together and we dreamed together.

And that was my favorite part.

Sitting on a red couch in a villa in Boston becoming real friends with some of the most amazing women I know.

And it's not over. Elizabeth and I decided to stay an extra day. So the story continues...

Dear NYC, I cheated on you

2011-10-26T00:00:00.012-05:00

with every tree lined street

with the view from our villa

with the Boston Reading Room

with the colorful Harvard campus

with pathways that begged me to walk

with the book store

with vibrant hued leaves

with the most quaint Post Office

with Boston.

I would ask you to forgive me, but I can't promise it won't happen again.

Love,

yours truly

Questions Answered, part 7

2011-10-25T00:00:00.026-05:00

Hey pals. I missed you guys. I changed up the Q&A logo on you. How do you like my 'stache?

I slept as little as possible this past weekend so I wouldn't miss a single minute of my Boston trip.

I'm still catching up on my glamorous life (read: laundry + grocery shopping), but I'll share some highlights with you later this week.

Today, let's talk movies.

. . .

Q: Name your quintessential New York movie. And your quintessential southern movie.

. . .

Quintessential NYC

Jack Taylor to daughter Maggie: Maggie, when you grow up and are incredibly beautiful and intelligent and possess a certain sweetness that's... that's like a distant promise to the brave, to the worthy, could you please not beat to a pulp every miserable bastard that comes your way simply because you can? Could you not do that?

Maggie: Okay, Daddy.

Joe Fox: Brinkley is my dog. He loves the streets of New York as much as I do, although he likes to eat bits of pizza and bagels off the sidewalk and I prefer to buy them.

...

Kathleen Kelly: What will NY152 say today, I wonder. I turn on my computer. I wait impatiently as it connects. I go online, and my breath catches in my chest until I hear three little words: You've got mail. I hear nothing. Not even a sound on the streets of New York, just the beating of my own heart. I have mail. From you.

Quintessential Southern

Truvy: Laughter through tears is my favorite emotion.

...

Truvy to Clairee: This is the 80's Clairee. If you can achieve puberty, you can achieve a past.

...

Truvy: What are your colors Shelby?

Shelby: Blush and Bashful.

M'Lynn: Her colors are pink and pink.

...

Ouiser Boudreaux: This is it, I've found it, I'm in hell.

♥

There are so many great NYC + Southern movies, I had a hard time narrowing my list.

What are some of your favorites?

credits one two three

Living Pinterest // glittery candles + weekending

2011-10-21T00:00:00.038-05:00

My friend Candis created a segment on her blog, lady lee in process, called Living Pinterest...

a really great way for us to actually do some of the awesome projects we keep pinning on Pinterest from week to week.

Here's my original pin // The Inspired Room

I gathered my supplies: Epsom Salt, Mod Podge, Fall scented pillar candles and a sponge brush.

Pour the Epsom salt on a plate.

Brush the Mod Podge onto a candle.

Roll your gluey candle in the salt and then let it dry.

Then admire your handiwork.

I love these candles.

I think they look super high end, but the total cost was less than $15

and I have the supplies to make several more.

♥

I'm off to Boston this weekend to chill with these fine ladies and their babies.
They are some of my favorite bloggers evah and meeting them makes me feel like a kid on Christmas.
I can harldy believe our weekend away is actually happening, but I am oh so thankful it is.

♥
Happy Friday, all.

the fine ladies + cute babies one, two, three, four