THE ARCHIVE
RECENT BLOG POSTS
Ringing in 2025
It’s been a while (well, a few months to be honest) since I posted on here. To be honest, towards the end of 2024, I was feeling bored and uninspired and didn’t want that energy to translate over to this blog. However, my November took a quick and very exciting turn and I am beyond excited and grateful to be welcoming my new (and oh! so handsome) horse, Etbauer’s Secret (“E.T.”), into my life!
Heading into Autumn & a Life Update
It has admittedly been far too long since my last post! Life has been a little crazy and overwhelming lately, but mostly for the good reasons — I recently started leasing a horse! It’s been an absolute delight to get back into horseback riding this year, and I’ve rapidly reverted back into being well and truly obsessed with all things horse-related. Since August, I’ve been heavily focused on improving my dressage skills and building a lovely relationship with Rosie, the gorgeous Thoroughbred mare I’m lucky enough to be leasing.
Summertime Soirée Favorites
Hosting a summertime soiree is one of my greatest joys, whether it's a lively outdoor BBQ with friends or an intimate dinner with family on the deck. The right touches can transform any gathering into a memorable event, and I believe that thoughtfully chosen stemware, napkins, and hosting accessories play a pivotal role in setting the stage for a wonderful meal. Elegant wine glasses and sturdy tumblers enhance the experience of savoring chilled rosé or a refreshing cocktail. Beautifully patterned napkins add a touch of sophistication, while stylish serving trays and utensils ensure both functionality and flair. Each element, from the soft glow of lanterns to the inviting comfort of outdoor cushions, contributes to an ambiance that welcomes guests and creates an atmosphere of effortless summer charm.
Transitioning to Clean Beauty
Sharing my transformative journey towards embracing clean beauty. Motivated by a desire for a holistic approach to wellness, I began to question the ingredients in my beauty products, inspired by online communities and my commitment to a mindful lifestyle. With newfound awareness, I delved into the world of clean beauty, prioritizing natural, non-toxic ingredients that nourish and support my skin. While the transition hasn’t been without its challenges, I'm excited to align my beauty routine with my broader ethos of self-care, embracing a balanced yet intentional approach to skincare.
My Favorite Books of 2024 (So Far…)
In 2024, I set out on a literary adventure with a simple yet ambitious goal: to diversify my reading palate beyond the comforting confines of my beloved historical fiction bubble. While historical tales have long held a cherished place on my bookshelf (OK, let’s be honest, Aley… historical fiction makes up my entire bookshelf!), variety truly is the spice of life. As the year unfolds, I have found myself pleasantly surprised by the treasures I've unearthed within the pages of novels spanning a multitude of genres. From heartwarming contemporary stories and thought-provoking non-fiction (and yes, more historical fiction), my reading journey has been nothing short of exhilarating. As I reflect on the books that have captured my imagination and stirred my soul thus far, I am thrilled to share my favorite reads of 2024 with you. So, without further ado, let's dive into the literary delights that have illuminated my year thus far.
Reigniting a Passion: A Return to Dressage
I'm excited to share a personal update with you all—I'm diving back into the world of horseback riding, with a focus on dressage! Horses have always held a special place in my heart, their grace and strength captivating me since childhood. After a hiatus of several years, I've rediscovered the joy of being in the saddle, reconnecting with these magnificent animals and the sport I love.
An Equestrian Afternoon in Marshall and Hume
In the heart of Virginia's countryside, amidst the quaint towns of Hume and Marshall, our day unfolded with a blend of rustic charm and refined delights. Starting with a savory stop at The Whole Ox in Marshall, we savored their renowned burgers before setting off for the sprawling trails of Marriott Ranch. There, beneath the vast sky and rolling hills, we found solace in the company of Jess and Ranger, our trusty steeds for the day. As the sun dipped low, we ventured to Rappahannock Cellars, where the vineyard's sparkling wines and panoramic views provided the perfect finale to our day of adventure.
A Gentle Reminder on Social Media and Comparison
I’ll start by acknowledging that this post is definitely out of my normal “hunt country chic” content. However, I have been mulling over my thoughts about social media and comparison for a few weeks now and, even if nobody else reads this, this blog post serves as a gentle albeit important reminder for myself. In full transparency, I’ve been struggling with social media over the past few months — whether it’s simply due to the time of the year, the stress of a house remodel and career, general burn-out, or something else — and this mental turmoil has left me feeling uninspired, unmotivated, and frankly, quite ‘blah’. And, while what I’m writing is neither ground-breaking nor shocking, it’s important to stop and think about every now and then, especially when so much of our daily life is spent consuming content either consciously or unconsciously.