I am Lauren, boiled peanut enthusiast

Growing up, road trips meant boiled peanuts... guaranteed. Perhaps this had something to do with the destinations of such trips. Having 2 parents from central/south Georgia most likely had everything to do with it. Like okra and collards, boiled peanuts are a symbol of southern culture and cuisine.

One can find boiled peanut stands scattered along the sides of curvy country back roads. This past weekend on my way to and from the Blue Ridge mountains I passed countless "p-nut" stands, each equally as tempting as the one before it. I was in a bit of a hurry, so I resisted the urge to pull over, yet craved them all the while.


Boiled peanuts just might be the ultimate snack. Their soft, boiled down texture and significantly salty flavor provide for quite a sensory experience. And not to mention, they're full of antioxidants! On May 1, 2006, Gov. Mark Sanford signed a bill making boiled peanuts the official snack food of South Carolina. Imagine that!

In grade school I was known for the eccentric contents of my lunch bag. These canned boiled peanuts were a must-have. Not nearly as incredible as those found road-side, but delicious nonetheless.
Since I seldom journey through country back roads these days, I've found another way to satisfy my boiled peanut cravings, besides the canned variety. Believe it or not, the Piggly Wiggly down the street from my house has its own boiled peanut stand! In fact, I'm munching on some as we speak... mmmm.

I am Lauren, oxford enthusiast

Ever since last fall I've been on a hunt for the most perfect oxford flats. I wanted a pair that weren't too menswear, and was having a heard time finding anything that I thought I'd actually wear... until I found these at Urban Outfitters. When I saw them in the store, I knew immediately they were the ones. I told myself, "If they fit, I'll buy them," even though they were still full price (I never pay full price for things, so that says a lot)! They fit perfectly. I promptly took them to the lady at the register.

I've not regretted this purchase, not once! These shoes are proving to be my staple summer accessory. They're incredibly comfortable and they're simply perfect for bike rides around town.

This look reflects how I've been wearing them most lately...

or for a grungier look, I'd likely go for something like this

What is your summer staple?

I am Lauren, home sweet home enthusiast

The past few years I've spent dreaming of the day when I would have a home of my own to infiltrate and outfit. And the past few weeks I've spent doing just that. It's literally a dream come true. My time has finally come... to satisfy my irresistible urge to settle. And it just so happens that I get to fulfill my dreams in the most adorable house ever!

I know this urge is unusual, especially for someone just shy of 20 yrs, but it's something I can't shake; it is my nature to nest. I like to make things my own, in all arenas, so when it comes to something as personal as creating a home environment, I can't help but assume tremendous responsibility to make it mine. This isn't one of those nagging responsibilities, but an enthusing, consuming compulsion to cultivate space... personal space.

I have always had a rather keen awareness of my surroundings and I feel strongly that the arrangement of space is crucial to well-being. It's all about balance. Perhaps I should look into becoming a feng shui master...?

The home is something that I value and cherish as the ultimate personal/shared space. I spent roughly 17 years in the same house, so perhaps that has something to do with why I feel so strongly about the importance of a sense of permanence in the home environment. I hope/plan to spend the next 2 years in this little green house. And after that...? To be honest, when it comes to the future, my nesting nature frightens me a bit. It conflicts with my sense of adventure and my desires to see the world, to get to know other places. How can I settle if I'm jet setting? Will I find a balance? Can I find a balance?

One of these days I'll give you a peek of what's happening inside (and outside!) of the house... looking lovely, but still a work in progress!