Life in the Super Burbs

Tis the Season

2012-12-21T19:24:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year. Hustle and bustle. And some more hustle and then a little more. I feel as though the holidays just jumped in front of my face tonight and was like "guess what! I'm here!". Yikes, Holidays - let's ease into this a bit. You see, I LOVE the holidays. Adore. Probably more the most. But I feel like the last few years it just appears out of nowhere for the mister and I. We miss the days of a month long anticipation we knew in our younger years. Instead it feels like another little weekend. Like Columbus Day (no offense Christopher). The past two weeks, Mr. C has been working late nights. Really late nights. Like 4AM folks, no exaggeration. That takes a toll on the holiday spirit. But what it also does, is make you realize that Mariah Carey is dead on (shocker). All we really want for Christmas is each other. A night out, a night in, folding laundry, walking the dog. That all seems super fun to us right now. And that's pretty great. Because with things like Newtown happening far too often, it's these little things we all must do a better job of loving.

image one/ image two/ image three

Mister C. I hope this silly deal closes so we can do dishes. Or sit on the couch making fun of each other. That would be the best. I hope all of you out there get a little of that down time this weekend. That's when the Christmas magic really happens. xoxo

SMP Weddings: THE BOOK

2012-12-18T15:53:00.002-05:00

So about this time last year. We were covered in glitter. In our ears, in our hair, and basically anywhere glitter could go. We had decided that the first ever SMP print magazine we were going to put together could be something even better. It could be a book. A beautiful, put out so your friends can see, coffee table book. So we got knee deep in DIYs and glitter and dreams - and low and behold we have that book. It's in our hands. And it's so beautiful, we can't help but kiss it now and again. Style Me Pretty is now portable. And I truly think you will love every page.

cover photo from Jose Villa

And today, if you decide to purchase it, all proceeds go to the families in Newtown. It's the least we can do. Thanks for your constant support. xoxo

Thankful

2012-11-21T21:12:00.001-05:00

Can I tell you what I am thankful for? Y'all not holding me to the "I'm back" post I posted awhile ago. Lordy me, life is a hectic beast. I'm so bad, I don't even have a single kid to my name (other than Otto of course) and I still can't get my act together long enough to spew out a few sentences. And I call myself a blogger. For shame. But I find myself on the eve on Thanksgiving - giving thanks (as people often do) for this little blog, and this little corner of the universe that sits and waits for me to blabber on about silly little things that make me smile. So I guess I just wanted to so thank you. For years now (that's crazy pants) of listening to me blabber about lovely things. For joining me in toasting to the simple things. To the things that often get lost in this fast-paced world we live in. But I have pledged to my little ol' self to never let those little things get lost. And on this cold November day, on the eve of one of my favorite Holidays - Mr. C, Otto and I are sitting by a warm fire, in our lovely house, drinking wine and giving thanks for the little things. Because even though we often get wrapped up in our to-do's...it's nights like these that make it all worth while.

Wishing you and yours the happiest of Thanksgivings, full of memories and laughter...and all those simple things you can't get enough of. Happy Thanksgiving.

xoxo,
Abby, Andrew & Otto

Mastering the Bedroom

2012-10-24T19:21:00.000-04:00

So y'all. Here's the issue. I love to decorate things. That ultimately leads me to wanting to redecorate the house just about every single day. Mr. C doesn't share this sentiment. He things we should sleep on things (for about precisely 3 years - no exaggeration there) before acting on any purchase for said design. God bless him, because I would be 100% out of control if it weren't for that man - but after 3 years of sleeping on things and going back and forth on what in the world we want to do with our bedroom to make it a sanctuary and not just somewhere we pass out - we've both determined it's time to act. But here's the problem - in those 3 years, I've redecorated this room in my mind ooohhh, about one MILLION times. So I want to settle with something that is traditional, yet with a twist. So the right and left side of my brain (who are constantly at odds btw) get along. And something that won't break the bank. That's for you Mr. C.

So here's what I am thinking without having the proper design tools to show you. Forgive me.

Wallpaper / Chandelier (similar) / Nightstands / Headboard / Linens / Dresser / Rug

I love layers and layers of neutrals. They scream sleep to me. Mind you, we will NOT be purchasing the majority of this for quite sometime, but putting this out there lights a fire at to do something least. Here are some thoughts:

1. Will I get tired of that wallpaper? Does that even matter? Do I sound like those people on House Hunters hung up on the paint? I made this board and meant to post it about three months ago. Since then, I've seen that paper all over the world wide web. I think I need to find another solution, but I like that this is the twist to my traditional.

2. I just like I am also not sold on the capiz chandelier - but it's from our wedding and has been sitting in our basement for two years so it could act as a place holder. Right now we have a ceiling fan and it haunts me every night.

3. I'm also looking for the perfect headboard. I want something rather dramatic and big since everything else is pretty expected.

4. Those linens have been in my dreams for FOREVER. I just want to roll around in that prettiness.

6. That sweater-looking thing at the end of the bed? That is a rug. And it arrived yesterday, and it is like stepping on clouds in heaven.

5. Not shown, a little sitting area with pretty white chairs and comfy throws and a fab reading lamp and expensive candles and pretty books. Right now there is disproportionate armoire there. Not as glamourous.

Thoughts? Suggestions? Sympathy for Mr. C? Would love to hear it all...

P.S. I will probably end up wanting to change all of this tomorrow.

I'm back! (I think).

2012-10-20T08:14:00.000-04:00

Everyday I tell myself to open this little blog and type a few sentences. Every.single.day. Mainly because it's good for the soul, and even though I'm pretty sure my readers think I will never return - I know there is this little place in the world wide web where I can say whatever dorky thing I want to say. And I like that. Lately life has taken a front seat to blogging (as it tends to do), and by the time I am ready to open up a new tab (aka tab #1,343) on my browser and type in this lonely address at the end of the day...I am beat. But I still keep wanting to come back - because I just feel like I need to get all these pretty thoughts out of my brain or rainbows might shoot out of my ears or something. Not really, but you get the visual. Because y'all, there is SO much pretty floating around right now. Seriously. For instance, this is the last pin I pinned on pinterest....

via

I literally just grabbed the last thing I lusted over - and counted about 100 things I loved about it. This is what my brain does when I see a pretty picture. First that chair sent me into a blue velvet-loving tizzy. All of the sudden I wanted my entire house draped in velvet...

one / two / three / four / five / six

And then there is that gold beauty of a mug. Heavens to Betsey that would make your daily cup of jo feel fancy. All of the sudden I needed everything I consumed beverages gilded immediately...

one / two / three / four / five

And that's all from one picture. No wonder I am beat by the end of the day. Anywho, I'm back for a bit. And now that the winter is upon us, I am hoping that means days spent hibernating in front of the fire. Where I can actually settle for a minute (this summer was crazy pants busy - in a good way - but a busy way), and since I don't really know how to settle...that means blog. Wish me luck.

Sweet Summer Time

2012-07-27T12:42:00.000-04:00

Eek. It's been a month since I've posted. That could be a record. And honestly, I am not ashamed one little bit. Because I've been soaking up that summer sun (properly sun-blocked of course) and enjoying everything this fabulous season has to offer. I've closed the computer, not answered emails, ignored phone calls so I could sit outside with Mr. C & Otto to enjoy a mid-week cookout (complete with cocktail). We've crossed off numerous tasks on our "must do this summer" list...and it's been splendid. It's been beautiful. And there is still so much more to enjoy. So pardon the silence, I'm just out making my days beautiful...

Jose Villa via Once Wed

P.S. Follow me on instagram (abbyblairecapalbo), where I post WAY too many photos of Otto and sailboats.

xoxo, Abby

Happy Weekend!

2012-06-08T18:36:00.002-04:00

I hope it's fantastic and full of things worthy of a good story later on. Also, let me just say, the fabulous version of myself would totally float around in my super sweet pool fully dressed in pumps on a swan float - except I would be even MORE fabulous than this little lady, because I would have a cocktail in one of those hands. Watch out.

via

Happy Weekend! Make it fabulous lovelies! xoxo, Abby

Dress Crush

2012-05-30T19:32:00.000-04:00

It never fails. Every summer I start crushing hard on party dress after party dress. My online shopping carts slowly start to overflow with dresses I'll never buy, but will none the less stay safely saved just in case I decide to splurge. This year, Tibi takes the cake. And although I'll probably never buy this beauty...I sure do want her.

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5

Merci Beaucoup 30

2012-05-29T19:51:00.001-04:00

Remember all of that stuff I said about not being big into birthdays, and how when people go out of their way for me I get uncomfortable - well let me just say that if Mr. C decided to whisk me away to Paris, give me some Loubies, dress me in a gorgeous gown and throw a little soiree worthy of the pages of SMP - I wouldn't complain. This is 30th birthday party perfection.

Polly Alexandre via Style Me Pretty

P.S. Happiest birthdays to one of my bestest friends - Katie. If I could whisk you away to Paris where we could twirl around in party dresses, you know I would. One day ;)

Happy Summer!

2012-05-25T13:39:00.001-04:00

This weekend is the unofficial start of summer, but if you ask me - it's pretty official. Can you believe it's already here? We made it lovelies! Summer has decided to show its pretty little face, and it's time to enjoy every little, bitty second. I promised myself at the end of last summer that I would soak up every minute of the sunny season this year - and that, my darlings, is a promise I intend to keep! Cheers to the most wonderful season of all! xoxo

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My Next 30 Years

2012-05-23T17:33:00.000-04:00

Before I start this Birthday post, I must preface it by saying - I'm not a Birthday person, so to speak. Celebrating others, I love...but when it comes to me blowing out the candles, I've never really been about that for some reason. Gifts make me uneasy and as much as I love going out of my way for others - it makes me slightly nervous when they go out of their way for me. One thing I am not apprehensive about is age. Even with the wrinkles, I've actually been super excited to turn 30. For years now, actually. Because somehow, every year keeps getting better in my crazy life - and 30 always seemed to be an age when people have it going on. The age where people are completely comfortable in their skin. They finally start to figure out what they want from this crazy life. I remember looking at people in their 30's when I was in my early 20's thinking - I can't wait to be that girl. Of course I couldn't ever utter the words, " I wish I was 30" nor do I ever want to wish days away - but I do remember that thought dancing through my mind on more than one occasion. And on May 23, 2012 - I am that girl. And I am thrilled to be her.

you can purchase this garland here

I live a blessed life. A life I am thankful for every.single.day. A life I give thanks for every single day. The last 30 years of my little life on this planet have been full of - life. Ups, downs, highs and lows - but it has been full. I couldn't ask for more...love, travel, amazing friendships - it's safe to say, I am thrilled to welcome the next 30 years. And I honestly couldn't ask for a better person to take on the next few decades with - Mr. C is such a fun partner in crime, and our trusty side kick, Otto, couldn't be a more fabulous first addition to our mini family. Things in the Super Burbs are pretty darn good, and I can't wait to see what's next...but I a super happy about what's happening at this very moment.

So I guess when I say gifts make me uneasy - I mean of the material kind. Because my 30 years have been filled to the brim with gifts beyond measure. And when I put it that way, I am most certainly a Birthday person.

Here's to a 30 years as fabulous as the last...

xoxo,
Abby Blaire with the Yellow Hair (that's for you Mom & Dad - thank you for giving me a life worth gushing about)

Feeling Flamingo

2012-05-18T08:29:00.000-04:00

Lately I've been feeling all things Flamingo. It started with this pillow, and now - I do believe I have a bit of an obsession for the color palette that is the feathers on these flocks. And something about flamingo screams fancy pants to me, and I feel like that's exactly what this Friday needs...

one: Image / two: Bracelet / three: Image / four: Print by Lotfi / five: JCrew

SMP on The Everygirl!

2012-05-14T20:33:00.000-04:00

Heavens me, I almost forget to mention a most fabulous mention! The completely sweet ladies of The Everygirl (a fab website, btw) stopped by SMP HQ a few weeks ago, and interviewed Abby, Erin and I while they were at it. It was quite fun, and you should most certainly check it out! You can even find out who's on team Aiden and who's on Team Big. And that's important.

Peplum Perfection

2012-05-14T07:34:00.001-04:00

I think I have a peplum problem. Lately I am craving the trend like I crave a glass of wine after the end of a long week. I think one of these lovelies need to waltz into my wardrobe ASAP. Actually, my closet doors are open to any piece of peplum perfection looking for a home...

Dress: Dorothy Perkins / Skirt: Top Shop

Happy Cinco de Mayo + Cocktail Recipe!

2012-05-05T12:26:00.003-04:00

Mr. C and I have been in a whirlwind of to-dos since we got back from vaca, but on this most festive of days we are planning to make believe we are still on vacation and sip on one of our favorite cocktails we discovered while on vacation in the Caribbean sun. I figured you lovelies might want to partake in the goodness as well...but be careful, these can catch up to you rather quickly! (Pairs well with chips and salsa)

Recipe:

Fill glass with ice
Squeeze in half of a lime (fresh please)
Pour Brugal rum generously over the rocks
Top of with a bit of Sprite (ok, maybe more than a bit...)
Finish it with a sip and smile

We're Back.

2012-04-22T08:17:00.000-04:00

Mr. C and I just got back from a much-needed, super fun vacation and I am not going to lie when I say getting back into the routine of day to day is a bit unattractive after days spent hanging out on the beach, cocktails (plural) in hand. I just have to be honest - if it weren't for Otto, and his super cute furry face, that plane ride home might have been a bit depressing. And you know what also happens every time we go away? We make plans of being professional travelers (where all of our vacas are 100% funded of course), and where Otto can come on the plane and sit in the seat next to us. We've created a list of places that we neeeeeeedddd to visit - and I'm pretty sure it includes every place on this planet. We haven't just been bitten by the travel bug, we've been swallowed - and we wouldn't have it any other way.

We have decided that we are still officially on vacation today, and it's almost bloody mary brunch time, so it's time for me to sign off! Back on Monday! Adios! 

P.S. Where should we go next? We are craving a bit of Europe - and Portugal is looking rather pretty. But we are so curious about Russia too. Actually we want to go everywhere - so tell me about your favorite vacation ever...

Oh Where Oh Where Can She Be?

2012-04-10T06:51:00.003-04:00

Nope. You aren't seeing things. This is an actual, legitimate blog post. Well, kind of legitimate. It's basically a post to let you know that I am still around, and I have every hope to get this blog up and running in the near future. This spring/ winter has been crazy pants (in a good way) and this poor, old (lovely) blog always gets the raw end of the deal. So just know that I love you all (to pieces actually) and I hope to get to inspiring (even if it's just inspiring myself) after Mr. C and I take a little vaca - just the two of us - to recharge. Anything in particular you would like to see? Let me know! In the meantime, you can hang out with me on Pinterest, Instagram, or Facebook!

Image via

Don't Forget to...

2012-03-10T18:02:00.001-05:00

Mi Belle Photography via Style Me Pretty

Tonight's the night! Let there be light!

Happy Weekend!

2012-03-09T16:12:00.004-05:00

Hi lovelies! How was your week? Mine was a whirlwind of awesome which included some fab things for Style Me Pretty. More to come on that. In the meantime, I am looking forward to a weekend of Super Burb bliss. Sir Otto has been suffering from a bit of a limp, so we'll be giving him extra love this weekend, I'll be getting some much needed R&R (while pretend shopping for our upcoming vacation in April), and tomorrow I get to see some of my besties (and one of their babies) to toast to a thing or two. So this board just about sums up where my mind will be come 5pm. And since I rarely think of things in black & white, I thought it might be fun to see my weekend in B&W - you know, to change things up a bit in my crazy ol' noggin...

Picture / Glasses / Picture / Shoes / Picture / Hat

Miss y'all already! xoxo

Live Here/ Like This

2012-03-01T08:32:00.000-05:00

I've had travel on the brain lately (let's be honest, I ALWAYS have travel on the brain). Mr. C and I have a list of places we want to go and that list grows every.single.day. Real life tends to get in the way of our dreams of being gypsies, so I often find myself in la la land imagining myself in the gorgeous places I see and dreaming what I would be like if I lived there. So when I saw this stop.in.your.tracks colorful facade, I obviously planned out my entire life as a tenant of this pretty place...wait, you don't do that?

1. When you live in a house like this, you just can't go traditional. I take that back, you can't go FULL on traditional. I think these yellow kitchen pendants would be the perfect POC to shine on you while you prepare apps for your guests (this is totally a cocktail party house)

2. You can't live in this house and NOT dress in happy way. This skirt would be a must.

3. Color...all the way down to the extension cord.

4. ...and floor lamps. Obviously it could work well with a more modern living room...but I think it would be a fun mix up with something a little more traditional. I like a little shock factor.

5. Let there be light...and lots of colorful pillows. This room is a dream. Love every little detail.

Minted

2012-02-29T06:58:00.000-05:00

Why hello lovelies, fancy seeing you around these parts. How are you? I've missed you so very much - and although I am busy in the best possible way, I do miss chatting with y'all for sure. Every week I say, "Sir Otto, please make sure I blog this..." Or "Sir Otto, isn't this a great idea for a post?" and he constantly reminds me to find time to blog yet I just can't seem to set aside the minutes in the day to get to it. It's a sore spot between the two of us...but we are working on it. Starting with this very post inspired by Mint - the red-headed step sister to the pantone color of the year Tangerine. You see, I love Tangerine - who doesn't? She's pretty and fresh and the perfect POC - how can you not just adore her? But there is another pretty as can be color sneaking up on us this year...letting Tangerine have the spotlight while she freshens up a bit, and that lovely shade is mint. And where Tangerine is energetic, mint is calming - so I am pretty fond of her. What do you think?

Awesome church / Nail Polish / Clutch / Earrings / Shoes / Dress

Happy Love Day!

2012-02-14T14:42:00.001-05:00

One think I love so much about this festive holiday is all the inspiration floating around. So I thought I would share some of my favorite finds around the world wide web inspired by this day of mushiness. Happy Valentine's Day my loves! xoxo

1. Frozen hearts via A Subtle Revelry / 2. XOXO Cake via Ruffled / 3. Heart of Books via Just a few Prints / 4. Heart Garland via Wedding Chicks / 5. Valentine Cocktail via Style Me Pretty / 6. Signature Cocktail via Southern Weddings

What are you doing to celebrate? I'm typically not the biggest fan of this holiday, I'll admit it - but I do love a good reason to celebrate and give an extra smooch or two! Here's a few for you - xxxxxxxxx!

Happy Weekend!

2012-02-10T15:49:00.000-05:00

via

I'm sorry, this picture is just too darn adorable. Hope your weekend is equally as cute.

Tuesday Shoesday

2012-02-07T08:02:00.000-05:00

I can guarantee a few pair of Tipsy Skippers will be placed on my tooties this spring. They are not only adorable, but local to the Super Burbs making them that much more darling in my book. Will a plethora of patterns - they will make any prepster proud. Just take a little gander for yourself...

Tipsy Skipper via Classy Girls Wear Pearls

See even more here!

Mountain Retreat Day Dreaming

2012-02-06T11:56:00.001-05:00

If you know me at all - you know if I love something, I love it hard. Skiing just happens to be one of those things. We spent a few days on the slopes last week, and getting me off that mountain was not that easy. So I spent the remainder of the weekend dreaming of a ski chalet for us to escape to (if only in our dreams) right down to the chandeliers.

Oh to have a little slope side cabin to fill with the most fabulous decor. I must admit, while others might be thinking of where they want to apres ski as they glide down the mountain - I'm typically thinking of what bedding would be best for the imaginary bunk beds in our imaginary house. Issues.