It's All About Grace

Plant your way to FIVE a day!

2011-04-30T10:35:00.000-04:00

It’s the time of year to start planning for a kitchen vegetable garden! Now that spring has finally arrived and the warmer weather is affecting our minds and transforming our moods, it’s best to take advantage of this surge of motivation to put our time, energy and dollars to good use. A vegetable garden is the perfect way to combine health and saving priorities.

People often find vegetable gardening intimidating! Simply put...Gardening is fun. Gardening is educational. Gardening is neighborly. Gardening is meditative. Gardening should never be scary or dismaying. If there is any part of gardening that seems unachievable then we gardeners who enjoy it so much have not communicated our joy to you successfully.

Soil Mates, by Sara Alway, is our favorite book for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Alway's book is a cleverly irresistible guide to vegetable companion gardening or horticultural matchmaking. It provides tips and tricks by highlighting each vegetable's "match" and "turn off" plants in order to establish garden harmony. Let's face it, everyone has a soft spot for special treatment, including plants. Did you know that broccoli and rosemary are "friends with benefits"? It is a fool proof way to simply learn the basics of vegetable gardening, grow better vegetables, and is an entertaining read by Alway’s lighthearted approach to a subject that could be mundane.

With the many health benefits of growing your own food and the simplicity of this book as a guide, there is no reason to be intimidated! Gardening is something you can do!

Margaux

Je Suis Margaux...

2011-04-30T00:08:00.000-04:00

Background~ A mother of a cheeky three year old, Charlotte ("Charlie"), and wife to a great husband who supports me in my adventures... "Honey, why do you have an old rusty stool in your car and where did it come from?". Although I have a degree in animal science and worked in the science field, I was born with the love of decor, creativity, and treasure hunting. This of course, led me to Grace, where I met my match and am surrounded by great women who share my passion.

My Hearts~Vintage finds (if something looks like it has "a story to tell" then I love it), anything French (decor, names, food), chippy furniture, boxwoods & hydrangeas, Ashlawn Farm in Lyme, pergolas, coastal living, anything furry with four legs, gardening, burlap, boating, white linens, driftwood, teak and reclaimed wood, summers at Black Point, oreo cookie ice cream, farmers markets, a good workout, beauty products, saltines (topped with various items), my nightly bubble bath routine, bleached bed sheets and towels, decorating to personal style (not copying a spread in a catalogue), matching mommy/daughter clothes from Jcrew, chandeliers, children's birthday parties, Myer's cleaning products and Murphy's oil soap, believing that to feel good you must give back, volunteering, good friends, organization.

Grace Girls

2011-04-30T00:01:00.000-04:00

Some of you might remember this post and my new years resolution. Well, I started out okay, but when our remodel kicked into high gear, my bloggin kicked into, well, a dead stop. So, I have enlisted some help in accomplishing my goal. Going forward we will have two of our Grace Girls sharing the bloggin duties with me over here at It's All About Grace.

Andrea needs no introduction, she has been with us from way back in the cottage lane days, and has been an essential part of the Grace creative team. Andrea is our resident artist and she is always up on the latest trends in fashion, so I look forward to her modern point of view.

You might remember Margaux from her own fabulous blog. Margaux joined the Grace Girl's Team last year and is always ready with a warm smile and a funny story. She has agreed to come offer her expertise about everything from organizing & gardening to interior inspirations.

Here are some great behind the scenes shots of the girls getting the shop all decked out in its holiday best. Stay tuned for more info on gorgeous and fabulous grace girls!

Glee - Bubble Toes

2011-04-27T23:32:00.000-04:00

We love us some Jack Johnson and combine that with a little Glee - had to share!

Spring has sprung...finally

2011-04-26T21:50:00.000-04:00

It was beginning to feel like it was never going to warm up around here, that was until today. We had gorgeous Spring like weather in Niantic - we actually got to open the door at the shop, I opened up windows at home and I finally got to wear my cute new dress! Speaking of cute dresses (how's that for a segway?) we have the best new clothes in at the shop...our line of great cotton tops and dresses - so comfy you could literally live in them. The star of the show, Stripes, which I am pretty psyched about since I have a little obsession, especially in the navy and white persuasion.

Loving the subtle ruffles in each one of these tops as well. Speaking of ruffles check out this one shoulder dress, one of the seasons hottest looks.

Chambry mixed with a touch of floral is the perfect definition of beach meets country...

Love, love & love! Not only are these dresses and tops adorable, but they are affordable. These pieces go quickly so make sure you stop in soon to scoop up your size.

2011-02-28T23:56:00.001-05:00

You all must check out Margaux's blog - she is one of our beautiful, fabulous and creative Grace Girls and she has a blog about everything from her latest decorating projects to inspirational quotes and fashion trends. Definitely a must read!

A LITTLE OF THIS AND THAT....: Organize!: "It's all about the organization in my house! Any tools that aid in keeping lists, making sure tasks are completed, and keeping papers off my..."

2011-01-20T16:51:00.001-05:00

Click on the link below for an exciting announcement about Grace...

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/one-door-closes---.html?soid=1101838043345&aid=UnZ8F_3hle0

2011-01-13T21:37:00.000-05:00

Digging Out

So we have been busy digging out a major snow storm in the Northeast.

Outside of Grace we had over a foot. We even had to cut our New York buying trip short due to Winter Storm Benedict. (Check back for info on our trip to NYC) Perfect weather to make some soup and snuggle up in some Sheepy Fleece with a fab movie or a wonderful book. Tonight I made this great Roasted Vegetable Soup from The Fig's Table by Todd English and Sally Sampson.

This rich vegetable soup gets the intense flavor from the roasted vegetables.

2 to 3 parsnips, peeled, if desired, quartered lengthwise, and chopped
4 carrots, peeled, if desired, quartered lengthwise, and chopped
1 large red onion, chopped
1 head savoy cabbage, quarted and cut in eights
8 fresh plumb tomatoes (you can use canned if not available)
2 Tbsp Olive Oil
1 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 garlic cloves minced
2 celery stalks finely chopped
2 cups cooked white cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
6 cups Chicken Broth (low-sodium if canned)
1 bunch leaf spinach
Shaved Parmesan Cheese for garnish

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
Place the parsnips, carrots, onion, cabbage, and tomatoes in separate piles on a large roasting pan and drizzle with 1 Tbsp oil, Sprinkle with the salt and pepper.
Place the pan in the oven and roast for about 45 minutes, checking occasionally and removing any vegetables as they become brown. Do not allow them to burn.
Place a large stock pot over medium heat and, when it is hot, add the remaining oil. Add the garlic and celery and cook until they are golden, about 3 minutes.
Roughly chop the cabbage and tomatoes and add them to the stockpot. Add the remaining vegetables, beans, and Chicken Broth. Bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 20 minutes.
Add the spinach.
Serve immediately, garnished with the shaved Parmesan cheese or cover and refrigerate up to 2 days.

I served with some great crusty whole grain bread...mmmm.

2011-01-03T09:02:00.000-05:00

Resolution

According to Websters,

1. a formal expression of opinion or intention made
2. a resolve or determination: to make a firm resolution to do something.

Every year, I guess I privately resolve some things at the new year, a few of my faves over the years have been:

1. Eat healthier

2. Read more

3. Try new recipes

You get the idea, well usually I do not "formally" make my expression. Perhaps this is where I have gone wrong. Well either way,

I am resolving to blog more.

We have so much to tell you all about and what a perfect way to get the info out...if only I could master the ever elusive bandit...the big T...TIME!

How do you all find more TIME to do things you want to get done? Cause isn't that what it is all about? I just picked up a copy of this magazine and they have a feature titled, 4 Weeks To You Best Self.

I know sounds very Oprahish ( I just made that word up)...who on a side note just launched her new network and there seem to be some pretty great shows in the works...anyway back on topic. So this mag, which is actually a Martha publication, has a four week plan to cleanse out the bad and reshape the new. "If you have been eating, drinking, and making a little too merry, have we got the cure for you!", sounds about right.

So this weeks goal - Pare Down and Purify...some of it attainable, some of it a little more difficult. In addition to cleansing your diet, they also talk about detoxing your mind. Interesting thought.

Day 1 Begin a week-long media fast: No TV, and cut back on online time.

Hmmm..perhaps this could help in my finding more time. I do not watch a ton of TV, but every little bit helps right? Sorta blows that whole Oprah new network thing..well I guess that's what DVR's are for. Lets see what happens..sorry Matt Lauer, no Today Show to start my day today. Check back tomorrow for an update on my progress and to see what my goal is for Day 2.

So what are your resolutions and how do you stick to them?

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Shop-Outside-The-Box.html?soid=1101838043345&aid=uFgxkxsQpec

2010-11-24T08:23:00.000-05:00

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Shop-Outside-The-Box.html?soid=1101838043345&aid=uFgxkxsQpec

2010-11-09T08:07:00.001-05:00

Grace Giveaway

Checked out the details of our Findings Trunk Show yet? Keep an eye on our Facebook Page for additional details about this wonderful time. With this cold weather and a little snow yesterday I am really getting in the mood for the holidays and a little gift giving! Follow our blog and leave a comment about this jewelry and be entered to win a fabulous bracelet from Findings. It would make a perfect present for someone special...

2010-11-07T17:23:00.002-05:00

Lost and Found

You are invited...

Friday, NOV 12 - Sunday, NOV 14

Findings jewelry as described by mother (Kathe Van Harte) and daughter (Joanna Madden)

"……..we love the adventure of the hunt …… the simple indulgences……we love texture….. anything with a past…… we love the colors of cream, silver and driftwood…… we love the twist when the past mixes with industrial modern….. we love paper, paper and more paper (both new and old)

come and see the magic we spin…."

Sounds pretty awesome right and the perfect accessory for a grace girl. Just in time for the season of sparkle, these bracelets and necklaces make great gifts! You might have noticed some of the jewelry in the shop...

see it here with our vintage bathing beauties

Perhaps you remember them from the pages of Country Living Magazine, they were one of the featured vendors at the Country Living fairs in Columbus, Ohio and Stone Mountain, Georgia (which oh by the way, anyone think this would be a great grace girl field trip for next year?) Check out more pics of Findings and Layla's adventures at the Country Living Fair over at The Lettered Cottage (one of my favs!)

So mark your calendars for this coming weekend - don't miss out on this exclusive engagement!

2010-11-04T18:46:00.005-04:00

Regis and the City

Cue the fun music...three girls on an adventure...

On a recent buying trip to NYC, the grace girls had an opportunity to go see a live taping of Regis and Kelly and it was an absolute blast. On the way down we had said how funny would it be if one of us was the gogo dancer...well you know how the "secret" works...check out Margaux as she made her debut dancing away during the live trivia game.

the pretty girl from Old Lyme

it was so cool getting a peek behind the scenes

Regis and Kelly were so great - Kelly was absolutely stunning and Regis was hilarious and just as goofy in person as he is on the show. In between takes they would come out and chat with the crowd about everything from Jersey Shore to Dancing with the Stars. On the day we went there was no big celebrity guest, but they did have the Editor-In-Chief from Woman's Day Magazine with some great ideas for Halloween baking and decorating.

love this candy corn garland

what about the candy corn tree buds or how about the candy corn orbs - pretty cool!

A little late for Halloween this year, but file for future ideas, and I am sure you can tweak this idea for Thanksgiving. Check out some more great holiday and seasonal decorating ideas here.

The "REEEG" and Margaux

The Grace Girls

2010-10-07T14:00:00.003-04:00

Wedded Bliss
I just celebrated my 5 year anniversary with my best boy ( a little shout out to K-Nice). We had such a perfect day for our wedding. When we were planning our big day, I was really torn over a beach wedding or a barn/country reception - we wound up on the beach with a great outdoor reception - it was perfect.

So in the spirit of celebrating wedded bliss, I found this amazing wedding that I am drooling over. Here are a few of my favorite pictures...

umm can we discuss the hair - stunning

check out the reflection in the mirror of their reception space

love the playful approach of the placemats

simple wildflower bouquets

the leaning tower of hay...

gorgeous dress

an amazing entrance

loving the wagon wheel and mason jar chande with twigs

picture perfect

"Grace was in all her steps, heaven in her eye; In every gesture dignity and love" John Miltons

2010-10-06T23:12:00.007-04:00

Falling for fall...

Back to blogging...so sorry we have been MIA...but we are back and totally inspired and so excited to share a little of that inspiration with all of you. I love fall - summer and the beach are the best, but there is something about fall that really gets my creative juices flowing. Maybe it is the new chill in the air that encourages us all to nest and create some cozy interiors or maybe it is all the holidays and of course the decor that goes along with them. Here's a few fall decorating ideas to get you started...

i love these studded gray guys - so fashion inspired

This is the kids/guest room from the 2010 Coastal Living Idea House...i am a huge orange fan and i love it shown here with the charcoal gray. That cute little nightstand...an Ikea find and the rug, one of our own from Dash and Albert.

Here some metallic paints wake up this bunch

2010-04-16T19:52:00.004-04:00

Smells so green and skies to blue, Spring has sprung and now, me too!

Boing, boing, boing, boing, boing, boing, boing, boing!

Take off your mittens and put away those coats.

It's time for gardens and sailing in boats.

Smells so green and skies to blue, Spring has sprung now how ' bout you!

Boing, boing, boing, boing, boing, boing, boing, boing!

K. Guilmartin

Who doesn't love to hear those birds chirpin' and see those flowers poking through the ground? We love spring at Grace because that means beach season is far behind! We continue to get awesome new arrivals in the shop every week – it's like Christmas all over again. This week we received some fab new clothing; romantic dresses and blouses, our famous burnout tees, and some essential basics in 100% cotton.

flower adorned blouse

flower smocked empire waist dress

lace embroidered sleeveless top

2010-01-29T19:01:00.009-05:00

The Children of Haiti Need Our Help

"January 2010: Before, Haiti already faced a critical humanitarian crisis that denied many of its children the right to survive and thrive - children who are almost half of the country's 10 million citizens. Then the 12 January earthquake hit: an estimated 112,000 people died and 1.5 million became homeless...Nearly 40 per cent of all Haitians are under 14 years of age, and children are at the greatest risk in the quake's aftermath."

We have all been devastated by the toll that the earthquake has taken on the people of Haiti, and as mothers, our hearts especially break for the children of Haiti.
In our efforts to help the Haitians recover from this devastation, we are donating a percentage of our sales this weekend to UNICEF. Please come in and show your support and pick up some fantastic bargains while you are at it!

This is the final weekend of Winter Clearance Event
NEW DISCOUNTS THIS WEEKEND ONLY!!!

2010-01-20T21:45:00.003-05:00

SAT, JAN 23 - SUN, JAN 31
Winter Clearance Sale

It is a new year...the beginning of a new decade and time for our Annual Winter Clearance Sale! This year is more exciting then ever because Grace is expanding! We are knocking down walls, adding rooms, and freshening up just in time for Spring. Our sale will be for one week only and then we will be closed while we re-model so make sure you stop in to scoop up awesome deals while they last.

Out with the old and in with the new...EVERYTHING IS ON SALE*...all clothing, jewelry(great deals for Valentine's Day!), scarves, hats & gloves 50% off...home decor and gifts 20%-50% off...all holiday merchandise 75% off.
*some exclusions may apply

2009-11-16T17:26:00.004-05:00

Its hard to believe that Thanksgiving is less then two weeks away and we all know what comes after that! I love this time of year...crisp autumn air, apples, football games, comfort food, a cozy day spent under a cozy blanket. Sounds good huh? Then of course the holidays that follow - it really brings out the kid in all of us. I remember growing up, my mom, sister, aunt, and grand-mas would spend Thanksgiving afternoon pouring through catalogs, putting red stars next to our favorites and making our wishlists. Remember the huge Sears Toy Catalog - that was the BEST!

Then after our Thanksgiving meal, my Dad would pull out the wishbone and it would go on the window sill to dry out. Once it was nice and dry(a few days later), my sister and I would each grab an end, close our eyes and wish wish wish...so the story goes that whoever got the bigger piece was the winner and their wish would come true...I feel like we both won - what great memories!

What would your wish be? How about making your own wishlist? Stop into Grace and ask on the grace girls for a wishlist form - simply fill it out and then we will email your special someone and let them know you have "made a wish"!

2009-05-07T12:18:00.001-04:00

NEW POSTS COMING SOON!!!