New Years Eve

                                                       Photo From Unknown Source

      Good morning and happy Friday everyone! With New Years Eve being only one day away, I wanted to share a few of the local valley celebrations that will be taking place tomorrow night. These festivities are a great way to welcome the year 2011, and the perfect reason to throw on that sexy little cocktail number that has been hanging in your closet for far too long !

*Alisal Cellars-Enjoy classic rock and roll music from the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s’ as well as a touch of country from the Omega Band.  Admission includes live music, free hor d’ourves offered all night, $5 wine and $3 beer, a complementary glass of Champagne at the countdown to midnight, party favors and noisemakers.  Admission is $30 in advance and $35 at the door.  The party begins at 8 p.m. 448 Alisal Road, 686-4329.

*Marriott, 9 p.m. – 2 a.m. Live music by the Grasshoppers in the Jockey Club. $10 at the door. Dinner specials before the party starts in our Starting Gate Restaurant. They are also offering a special $69.99 deluxe room rate for locals on the night of New Years Eve only! Contact @ 688-1000, 555 McMurray Road, Buellton, www.santaynezhotels.com/newyears.html.

*Maverick Saloon, 3687 Sagunto St, Santa Ynez, CA
9pm-1:30amwww.mavericksaloon.org

Great Rock/Classic dance music with RIGHT AS RAIN 9:00pm-1:30 am.  Complimentry Champagne – Party Favors and the Hayloft Grill for munchies and more. $10 per person/$15 couple. Take a Taxi Cab to and from the Maverick: 805-TAXICAB – Special New Years Rates Available.

TGIF XOXO

Vacation Is A Beautiful Thing

                                                           Photo Courtesy of  Polyvore

    I am officially back and half way rested from my wonderful winter vacation. I had no idea what a true adventure this trip would become when I first embarked on this journey with my sweetheart.

   Through sleet and snow we arrived to and from safely taking home beautiful memories to carry us on through the new year. So when life gives you the choice to sit it out or dance in 2012, I sure hope you dance my fellow country girls. Change is a good thing!

   Now, time to get back on the grind and finish out the last of this short work week with a bang. New Years resolutions anyone? xo

A Very Merry Saltwater Christmas

                                              Photo courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens

       I would like to wish all of my friends, family, and followers a very merry saltwater Christmas today! This holiday has become truly a magical experience as I enjoy the festivities with my baux and his wonderful family here in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Eat...drink....and be merry.......for we all are blessed! Enjoy 'yall! xo

Boot Barn Special

                                                           Photo from unknown source

      Ladies, there is still time left to grab a little something special to slip under that tree just for you. The Boot Barn is having a fantstic sale on select style Ugg, Ariat, and Oak Tree Farm boots. They also have select style Tony Lamas, and Ariat boots for that special man in your life too. You can save up to 50% off of those perfect Christmas kicks, so don't miss out on the best boot sale on the Centeral Coast this Christmas. Please visit the http://www.bootbarn.com/ for a location near you!

Cowgirl Casserole

                                                       Photo courtesy of American Profile

    This is one of my favorite cold weather breakfast recipes. A nice slice of Cowgirl Casserole, a cup of coffee, and a good book by the fire place equals pure bliss for me. This hearty recipe will give any cowboy or cowgirl a good start to the day.

    

Ingredients

• Vegetable oil or nonstick

• cooking spray

• 1  pound bulk sausage, browned and drained

• 1/2  pound bacon, cooked, drained and crumbled

• 12  ounces frozen hash brown

• potatoes

• 1  medium green bell pepper, chopped

• 2  tablespoons chopped

• green onions

• 2  cups shredded Cheddar

• or Monterey Jack cheese, divided

• 1  cup reduced-fat Bisquick

• 3  cups 2% reduced-fat milk

• 1/2  teaspoon salt

• 4  eggs

Instructions

1. Oil a 13-by-9-inch glass baking dish or spray it with cooking spray.
2. Combine sausage, bacon, hash browns, bell pepper, green onions and 1 cup cheese in a large bowl. Spread in baking pan.
3. Whisk together Bisquick, milk, salt and eggs until well blended. Pour over potato mixture. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Cover and refrigerate overnight (no longer than 24 hours).

The Next Day
4. Preheat oven to 375F. Remove dish from refrigerator.
5. Bake, uncovered, 30 to 35 minutes, until light golden brown around the edges. Let stand 10 minutes before serving. Serves 12.

Oh Christmas Tree...Oh Christmas Tree...

                                                        Photo Courtesy of  Frost Me

Looking for the perfect center pieces for your home this season?
These adorable small trees make good use of all those wine corks you will certainly be collecting during the holidays! Or, if you don't drink wine, get the word out to friends and family and ask them to save them for you or make your way to the neierst winery to pick up a few. This is a fun and easy craft that everyone will enjoy!

   
To make these trees you will need:

• 18 – 24 corks (depending on how big you would like your tree to be)
• Glue gun and glue
• A 2" piece of a 2" diameter stick (from your yard) or a cut wooden dowel.
• Acrylic or water based paints
• Bits and pieces to decorate your tree

Directions

1. Start with four corks and glue them together to make the base of the tree.
2. Add five corks to the next level, letting them hang over on each side slightly.
3. Continue adding four, then three, then two, then one cork to each layer (start with three corks on the bottom for a smaller tree).
4. Randomly paint the ends as desired.
5. Decorate with ribbon, fabric, buttons or any notions you may have.
6. Attach the tree to the 2" base.

Long Live Plaid

                                                              Photos courtesy of Etsy

        Plaid is the color of a true country girl's heart. It is a pattern that is truly responsible for making the western look recognizable, and has really set the tone for the cute and casual cowgirl.

        Bundle up this season with a cozy plaid boyfriend shirt or shall in order to achieve that " cuddle factor," look.  Also for a more glamorous approach, try adding chunky turquoise jewelry or a funky leopard belt to accent your western holiday ensemble.

I Dig Your Baggage

                                                  Photos Courtesy of The Western Shop

     Who says that your bling factor has to end at your wardrobe? With my big cross country Christmas adventure being just 3 days away, packing is definitely on the mind.

     Adding stylish luggage to your holiday travel plans is a great accessory to prove that you have what it takes to dress and impress for any occasion. Make sure to stop by the Western Shop website and check out there fabulous lines  of country couture luggage so you can travel in style this season!!

Crank Up The Christmas Spirit

                                               Photo courtesy of A Very Merry Vineyard

     With Christmas just one week away it is definitely time to crank up your Christmas spirit to the next level. Head on over to the town of Solvang this weekend  for their Holiday Wine About. Participating wine tasting rooms will be hosting a 2-day walk about throughout the village of Solvang this Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online at www. solvangusa.com. Ticket costs are $20 per person or $40 for a 2-day pass.

      Join me this weekend in yuletide carol with your preferred cup of bliss! xo TGIF

A Gift For Him ...

                                                     Photo courtesy of Susie Q Brand

   Momma always said that a way to a man's heart is through his stomach. In that case, I will take cookies for Santa and steaks for my sweetheart please! 

   Susie Q’s Brand is the original maker of artisan foods capturing the flavors of Santa Maria Style Barbecue, a regional culinary tradition rooted in the Santa Maria Valley. Founded by Susan Righetti amongst the vineyards of the Central Coast, Susie Q’s products were created from family recipes, perfected over generations and popularized at her parents’ restaurant, the Far Western Tavern. Each of these recipes is inspired by the local ingredients and legendary methods that define Santa Maria Style Barbecue.

   Head on over to their website to check out their holiday seasonal packages and special steak branders!

Gypsy Soule

                                                         Photo Courtesy of gypsy soule

      Some women have soules that yearn to move, to travel, to love, to be free. These women have Gypsy Soules. They have a spirit that demands more out of life; this spirit is not easily tamed and penetrates the soul. For these women, a line of clothing, shoes, jewelry, and saddle accessories has been created.

     I find these pieces to be both fashionable and inspiring as well as a must have this season. For a complete list of Central Coast retailers make sure to visit the Gypsy Soule website and make sure to keep a look out for one of my favorite pieces, the "Wait For It" bangle!

Miss Me Obsession

                                                     Photos Courtesy of Miss Me

   Being a 5'10 curvaceous woman, it is always a challenge to find that perfect pair of jeans that are both comfortable and sexy. On that note, I felt that I just have to blog about what I feel is the perfect 10 denim line.
  Miss Me jeans are sassy, sophisticated, and any thing but original. It is amazing to have a pair of jeans that you can easily dress up or down with and feel completely comfortable and beautiful in your own skin all at the same time. This line is known best for their very glamorous and unique pocket designs that can help you add a little glitz to personal western chic style.
   Local Central Coast western hot spot, Wam Boutique, is currently offering a huge holiday sale on all of their Miss Me apparel. These are a must see and a great deal, head up and grab a pair today! 

Sassy Cook'n

                                                       Photos courtesy of  Sassy Cook'n

             My last hostess idea/ gift of the week is guaranteed to bring smiles and cheer this holiday season. Sassy Cook'n offers a fantastic line of country coordinating aprons, oven mitts, potholders, place mats and napkins using 100% premium cotton fabric in a variety of colors and wild west prints. Aprons like 'Smokin Hot Desperado or the Western Lolita, will be sure to have you holiday hostess grinning from ear to ear. Get creative and start your weekend off by stirring up that Christmas spirit with a bit of laughter! TGIF! XO

Bottoms Up For Christmas

                                                    Photo courtesy of Desperado Couture

  Instead of a traditional cheese plate or bottle of vino, you can also try a more creative approach for a hostess gift this season. I am head over spurs for this pair of sexy cowgirl wine glasses that I stumbled upon this week. These hand painted table accessories by '95 and Sunny,' can be found locally at Back At The Ranch in Santa Ynez.

  Giddy up on over to this cute cowgirl mercantile shop and pick up this fabulous duo today for your next Christmas inspired girls night in! 

Fruit and Caramel Brie

                                                       Photo courtesy of  Taste of Home

      Whenever life gives you cause for celebration, throw a party! Gatherings that bring good company make our long days worthwhile, raise our spirits,and enhance our lives.
      This fruit and caramel brie paired with a bottle of Carhartt Sauvignon Blanc is definitely at the top of my list for a guaranteed Christmas gathering hit. Enjoy :)

8 Servings

Prep/Total Time: 15 min.

10 5 15

Directions

• Place Brie in a microwave-safe bowl. In a small bowl, combine the caramel topping, cranberries, apples and walnuts. Spread over Brie. Microwave, uncovered, on high for 60-90 seconds or until cheese is heated through and slightly melted. Serve with toasted baguette slices. Yield: 8 servings.

Ingredients

• 1 round (8 ounces) Brie cheese, rind removed
• 1/3 cup caramel ice cream topping
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chopped dried apples
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 loaf (1 pound) French bread baguette, sliced and toasted

Christmas Vino Treats

                                                     Photos courtesy of Gainey Vineyard

 It is beginning to feel a lot like Christmas here on the Central Coast and I am in full shop 'til I drop holiday mode. Along with the traditional presents for family and friends, I love doing a bit of research to find the hottest hostess gifts of the season. This week I have decided to share with you my list of this season's top gifts and treats to bring to those elite holiday affairs. After all.... every real country woman knows to never arrive empty handed to a dinner party or event, right ladies? he he

  I stumbled upon these fantastic festive goodies in the wine shop of Gainey Vineyard, located in Santa Ynez. The ever so decedent raspberry piont noir or the zinfandel orange chocolate sauces are sure to win over event guests of all ages. I also recommend their elegant trio of herb dipping oils or the delicious chardonnay artichoke salsa for a more intimate cocktail or dinner occasion this season.

 These yummy morsels are a sure way to make you a memorable hit of any holiday bash!

     

For the Retro Cowgirl

                                                       Photos courtesy of Varga Store

     We survived the Santa Anna winds!!! I feel completely rejuvenated and inspired today after my short and sweet mini vacation in a city where truly anything is possible. Among the elite and the just plain hollyweird, the streets of Los Angeles are lined with  unique and fantastic boutiques.

   Varga one just one of the classically hip stores that caught my eye while shopping with my baux at the always fantastic Hollywood and Highland Center. This hidden city of angels gem provides retro and affordable fashion, home decor, and humorous little country trinkets. The Key to Life necklace, Bad Cowgirl Tote, and there charming accessory tins are just a few of my favorites that really helped to make this pin up/ shabby chic location come to life!

    For the complete line and California store locations feel free to visit their website at www.vargastore.com! TGIF Everyone!

    

Grammy Nomination Concert Live!

                                                           Photo from unknown source  
 Did someone say red carpet? If there is one thing that the Cali has perfected it would be hosting the annual award season. Nominations for the 54th Annual Grammy Awards will be announced this evening during a live televised concert event,' Grammys Nomination Concert', and my sweetheart and I just happen to have two hot tickets for tonight.
   A handful of the nominations are scheduled to be revealed during this countdown to music's biggest night, scheduled to air live from the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles on CBS at 10 p.m. ET. Lady Gaga is slated to open and close the show, and LL Cool J will host. The Band Perry and Jason Aldean are just a few of my country favorites that are also on the  preformers list for one of the hottest nights in Hollywood.
  So turn that radio up today on your Wednesday lunch break and remember, music is a true gateway to the soul.
  Time to get trade in those boots for the stilettos, get gussied up, and show them how to work a red carpet Slatwater style!  xo

Double D Ranch

Photos courtesy of   Double D Ranch

  With the winter social events just around the corner, it is time to start planning that perfect "wow factor," outfit. Look no further my dear friends, this is a brand that is guaranteed to knock 'em right out of those Tony Lamas and might even land you a spot under that mistletoe.
  Double D Ranch is a mother and daughter based company focused on keeping every country diva sexy during this holiday season. This line offers everything from the classic studded old school leather biker-style jacket to that savvy suede skirt that just happens to be a perfect match for those Old Gringos that you have been eyeing for months. This brand can be found at  Back at the Ranch in Santa Ynez along with a few other boutiques along the Central Coast.  So this line may be a bit on the pricey side, we are worth it ladies and I have a feeling that Santa would definitely agree.
  This is by far my country chic brand of choice for fall/ winter 2011!

I need a vacation after my vacation...



Photos from unknown source





Oh my dear Monday .... I believe you came to soon. After a wonderful and eventful family holiday

weekend, too much to eat, one too many turkey day cocktails, and a long 10hr workday day to kick off the week.. RELAXATION is on the mind tonight. I think a nice bubble bath, cozy fire in the fire place, and some hot tea with honey would do the trick right about now. :) Snuggle up tonight..kick off them boots.......take some time.. be good to yourself. Love you all .................. xoxoox





Good Work(s) Make a Difference

                                                    Photos courtesy of  Good Work(s)

  Good morning everyone. I wanted to help boost your Monday morning with a bit of positivity. This weekend in the middle of all the black Friday madness,  I was introduced to a wonderful humanitarian jewelry line that I just had to stop by and share with you today.

   Good Work(s) is a truly an inspiring line that offers more then just a fantastic fashionable accent to your daily wardrobe.  They are a company created as a dynamic lifestyle by expressing essential virtues and wisdom through fashion and showing random acts of kindness to spread humanitarianism. This company is committed to donating 25% of net profits to good causes to inspire, empower and give hope to one individual, one family, and one community at a time. The serenity bracelet, pictured above, is one of my favorites from this line and a prayer I hold dear to my heart.

   This leather wrap around bracelet will be sure to add a bit of edge to your cowgirl flare. P.S. This is a great stocking stuffer for your favorites this year!

Happy Thanksgiving

                                                          Photos from unknown source

       Today is the day we sit down with loved ones and take a moment to focus on all that we are thankful for. Enjoy your happy hearts and full bellies on this beautiful holiday. God bless you all xox

Wonder-Fall Colors

                                           Photograps courtesy of  Chuck Place Photography

     There is just something about this season and the abundence of fall colors that put my mind at ease and place a song in my heart. My favorite colors are those that absorb natures true beauty, especially during the harvest season where the Santa Ynez Valley becomes a truly magical place.

      I also believe that this season calls for a home decore make-over. Try to stay away from the basic color palette this season and spruse up your dear casa with a few colors that will be sure to make this season come to life for you and your family. So spoil your home with a bit of avocodo green, burnt orange, saffron yellow, chili red, and tan. Also, if you are feeling a bit frisky try adding a few accent colors such as a bright teal or country copper. Enjoy... home is where the heart is. xo

Urban Cowgirl

                                                    Photo courtesy of Urban Cowgirl

      Are you looking for the perfect make- up and skin girl line for the girl on the go? Urban Cowgirl is one of my new favorite California based beauty lines that I just had to share with all of you. I personally like to have a set of the basic cosmetics, separate from my evening weekend cosmetic line, that I can use to replenish my skin and add a bit of glamor during the long work weeks.

      These cowgirl  products are not only chic but are also organic and mineral based. Along with their everyday classic make-up and skin products, they also have fantastic bath products and life accessories as well. The Mango Tango Salt Souffle and the Green Tea Facial Cleanser are just two of the must haves from the Urban Cowgirl line. Whether you are enjoying a rodeo or strutting down Rodeo Drive, this is truly a great cosmetic & beauty line for the  active, savvy, and sexy country girl on the go.

    I think this year Chloe-Clause might even be wrapping her Christmas beauty products and gifts in Urban Cowgirl gym bags to help inspire all of her favorite cowgirls! he he xo

Motivated Monday Recipe



                                                      Photo Courtesy of Taste of Home

  Good morning everyone! As I take the first sip of my non fat pumpkin pie latte this morning, I start to become motivated about the short holiday work week ahead. With Thanksgiving being just a few days away, it is time to start thinking about that new savory addition to add to your traditional family feast. As I had mentioned in my previous blog, I strongly feel that the classics are not to be messed with so I decided to explore my options for a unique mouth watering appetizer. To me, with age comes with the expectation of being able to bring to the table a delectable treat that far surpasses the average cheese plate.

  These spinach & cheese cornbread bites are not only a great way to add a little bit of home style country to the holiday, but also have great potential to become a new yummy fall favorite with the family.

Spinach & Cheese Cornbread Bites

(Diabetic friendly)

* 48 servings

* Prep: 25 min. Bake 15 min./batch

Ingredients

• 1 package (8-1/2 ounces) corn bread/muffin mix
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup blue cheese salad dressing
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 package (10 ounces) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion

Thanksgiving Table Art

                                                    Photos courtesy of Willow Be Inspired

  Thanksgiving is by far one of my favorite holidays, and with it being just around the corner I decided that it was time to post my first holiday special blog. I feel that the traditional and delicious turkey day recipes are not to be messed with, so I was inspired to consider the fashionable table landscape for the season.
  This year be inspired to focus on harvest and natures raw beauty. Don't be afraid to mix china patterns and colors with this as well to add a little funk and flair to your family table. I have also included a table setting cheat sheet for your host/ hostess viewing pleasure. TGIF everyone!!

Relax at the Alisal

Photo courtesy of willow bee inspired

  Oh the weekend, so close yet one long Thursday away. As I sip my non fat vanilla latte this morning, I cant help but day dream about the perfect weekend/ day off. For this saltwater cowgirl that consists of two things, riding and relaxation. One of my favorite local places to experience both of these leisure activities is at the beautiful Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort. I would start the day off with their trademark Breakfast Ride, complete with western breakfast classics, mimosas, and a one hour beautiful trail ride through the property. Then I would head over to the resort spa for a little princess TLC. Two of my favorite spa treatments at the Alisal are their signature Happy Hour Full Body Scrub, (margarita scented), and the Nojoqui Mud Wrap & Sage Bliss Massage.
  Take time this weekend to relax, replenish, and pamper yourself by keeping it classy in the country. xo

Bridlewood On the Mind

                                                    Photo courtesy of Bridlewood Winery

       On what used to be a renowned horse racing track many years ago, now stands one of the Santa Ynez Valley's true wine gems. Bridlewood Winery, which is just 30mins north of Santa Barbara, sits on approximately 105 acres complete with a spanish-style estate tasting room, barrel room, and a breathtaking veranda overlooking the beautiful vineyards. Bridlewood currently offers two tasting flights,(a classic and reserve tasting), which include both red and white wine varietals. There are also rumors of new wine tour additions to Bridlewood such as a ATV tour and a horse and carriage tour. To me, this would be an ideal activity to enjoy with visiting friends and family this holiday season!
       This vino vaquera personally recommends there luscious pinot noir which is perfect to sip in the bubble bath after a long Wednesday workday.

Island Cowgirl

 

                                                        Photo courtesy of Island Cowgirl

   

      This morning while enjoying a cup of delicious pumpkin spice coffee, I came across this fantastic jewelry line that I couldn't wait to share with all of you. Island Cowgirl jewelry is truly a perfect brand for your everyday sterling silver ware. Each piece is handcrafted in Huntington Beach by designer and fellow cowgirl Heather Kraty. They are all carved with poetic and romantic etchings that I find to be quite simple yet inspirational. Enjoy xo