There is nothing that stirs the holiday spirit like beautiful floral decorations in a grand, old Southern home. While I am a fan of traditional Christmas decoration with its red and green, there is a fine line between festive and flashy. I have to appreciate the creativity in a holiday design that honors tradition, but is just a little bit …
A Southern Hospitality Getaway to Lake Charles
I love sharing delightful travel experiences with readers, and that’s why I’m thrilled to tell you about our Southern Hospitality Getaway to Lake Charles, Louisiana. The Lake Charles area is a fun place to visit with a full calendar of over 75 festivals celebrating local heritage, each year. Lake Charles is also home to the second largest Mardi Gras celebration …
Blue Willow Tablescape with Jennifer Carroll
Jennifer Carroll, an event planner of 20 years and a mother on one, has kindly shared her easy fall tablescape design for any gathering, big or small with me. Jennifer has loved planning and playing “hostess” from the time she was a little girl. When it comes to party planning, she believes in keeping it simple. In her lovely “Blue …
Variations on Pound Cake
Around my house, everyone’s favorite part of the meal is always dessert. I have always loved to bake with my family, and especially love teaching my grandchildren how to bake. A simple and delicious recipe that is perfect for baking with children is Miss Jo’s Whipping Cream Pound Cake. Miss Jo was a dear lady in my childhood church who …
New Orleans Plantation Country Giveaway
The historic homes of New Orleans Plantation Country are some of the most beautiful and traditional representations of southern architecture and decor. I so enjoy traveling and experiencing these grand homes. Each plantation shares unique stories of the families who lived there, and even some thrilling tales of those who haven’t quite moved on. Fall is an especially magical time …
Fall Colors in Arrangements
I have two friends, Gail Garner and Shelia Smith, who are so creative. They are our go-to pair when the event calls for something really special. Amy Grant was gracious enough to come to Birmingham for a concert benefitting the Auxiliary of Big Oak Ranch. I have written about the ranch many times here on Ribbon, so you know my …
Pursuing Peace This Fall
We are in such a joyous time of year. I love fall for so many reasons: hot drinks, the changing of leaves, wearing cozy sweaters…the list goes on. Along with all the joys that fall brings, it also ushers in one of the busiest times of the year. It’s football season, the holidays are coming up, and many things demand …
The Undoing of Saint Silvanus by Beth Moore
I have read and studied Beth Moore’s books for years and find her to be a gifted Bible study author and teacher. She is a resource in the world of Christian women—millions collect and study her books. She lives in Houston, Texas, where she leads Living Proof Ministries with the purpose of teaching women how to love and live on …
Introducing New Southern Spaces Book
One of my favorite things about living in the South is the beautiful homes. I always love seeing the variations in architecture and style across the region. Decorating a home is truly an art. Southern Spaces is a new book that explores the aspects of decorating that are uniquely Southern. Editor Kathleen J. Whaley was kind enough to share some …
History of the Bridal Trousseau
When I graduated from high school, my dad made me a blanket chest out of walnut wood. I had seen one in an antique store that was completely out of the question to buy. I took him over to see it and he made me my very own blanket chest that I still cherish today. It took the place of …