When Lori invited me to go with her to the Southern Lady Celebration in Savannah, Georgia, I excitedly said YES! I packed my bags and my "new" vintage purse and enjoyed the ride to Savannah in Lori's fabulous red Thunderbird!
We had a BALL. We endured record breaking heat, blisters, and sweat trickling down our backs as we walked the streets of Savannah. We ate and talked, and ate and talked. We people watched. We got a little turned around as we found ourselves at one time in the state of South Carolina and also managed to walk an extra four blocks PAST our hotel in the rain without umbrellas because we somehow didn't notice our huge hotel when it was right there in front of us. ;-)
We met the very inspiring Phyllis Hoffman. We met many beautiful southern ladies, including Liz Demos, who is absolutely adorable. And we met Laurie Hickson-Smith - a true highlight for me, because I am a huge fan of hers.
The Southern Lady Celebration was held at the Westin. We received presents and were treated to delicious food, centerpieces, and wonderful speakers. Here are a few photos that I wanted to share with you...
Phyllis Hoffman ...
She kindly signed my copy of her new book, "Honey, It's All In The Shoes" ...
Erica Glasener, of HGTV's A Gardener's Diary ...
And the Southern Lady of the Year, Laurie Hickson-Smith ...
Lori and I slipped away on Saturday to shop a little and we had a delicious lunch at the Gryphon Tea Room ...
Our time in Savannah flew by, and although it was INCREDIBLY HOT, we did spy a few signs of fall ...
We are planning on attending next year's Southern Lady Celebration too. It will be in Atlanta. One thing that was kind of interesting to discover - NONE of the ladies that we talked to, knew about blogs.
;-)
Lori and I would like to share a few of the goodies that we received at the celebration with YOU! We are giving away ...
Cookbooks, brand new magazines, beautiful note cards, garden gloves, recipes, a shoe bag, and a wonderful linen towel from White Flowers - a gorgeous shop in Alabama that features all things white!
If you would like the chance to win these fun things, please leave a comment below this post ( I sure hope that you are able to leave one as I know that some of you have not been able to do so for the past week or so. I am SO sorry for the inconvenience) and I will have the Random Generator pick the winning name this Friday, @ midnight!
I can't wait to catch up with all of you!
Love,
Kim
P.S. If any of our new Kentucky friends stop by, please say hi! Y'all were THE SWEETEST!!!!!
It looks and sounds like you had such a great time! I love all the pictures and I can't believe all the goodies you received. I was wondering did you get to try all the cakes? They look almost too good to be true. But I bet they were delicious!
Glad your back!
Christine
Posted by: Christine Drevo | October 12, 2009 at 01:21 PM
oooooooo lala....
How fun.....
faythinhim54@yahoo.com
Posted by: faythe | October 12, 2009 at 01:27 PM
Looks like so much fun, and I love to visit Savannah, my daughter goes to college there.
I love the downtown area. Thanks for the give a way.
Posted by: Patti | October 12, 2009 at 01:46 PM
So nice to have you back...I missed you...I love reading your blog each day as it starts my day on such a bright and cheery note.
What a wonderful event you attended,so many beautiful pictures to view...I loved seeing the photos of the gorgeous fondant covered cakes...each so different.
Thank you for sharing your experience.Travelling in the red Thunderbird must have been alot of fun!!
Posted by: Debbie from Vancouver Island Canada | October 12, 2009 at 01:49 PM
It is wonderful to see that you had such an amazing time with all of the very familiar faces I know through TV. How blessed you are to be part of all of that!
Sure, add my name in the hat for some goodies! Was Paula Deen there? She is someone I'd love to meet someday!
love you!!!
becky
Posted by: sweet cottage dreams | October 12, 2009 at 02:16 PM
how fabulous!!!!!
Posted by: shiela | October 12, 2009 at 02:18 PM
That looks like such a fun time! And those cakes are so beautiful. I would love to win!
Posted by: Julie | October 12, 2009 at 02:21 PM
I want to be a southern lady! Love all the colors.
Posted by: Janet Caldwell | October 12, 2009 at 02:22 PM
Looks like you had a fabulous time! The cakes are amazing. I would SO love to be entered in your giveaway!
Hugs,
Donna
Posted by: Donna at Mourning Dove Cottage | October 12, 2009 at 02:23 PM
what a fabulous time!!! thanks for taking us with you, Kim
Posted by: stacy watson | October 12, 2009 at 02:24 PM
Welcome back. Maggie and I missed you!
Posted by: Kevin | October 12, 2009 at 02:27 PM
From a Chicago lady -- you Southern ladies are so cool !
Posted by: Lucie Dittemore | October 12, 2009 at 02:27 PM
Oh! I wish America was a little closer !!!! (From a Kiwi)
Posted by: Francesca | October 12, 2009 at 02:41 PM
Oh, Kim, how fantastic! I have always wanted to go to one of the SL Celebrations.
Your photos are great, and those cakes are incredibly beautiful. I just love that style of decorating.
How much fun you two must have had. I'm so glad you got a chance to go.
Welcome home!
Mary Lou
Posted by: Mary Lou | October 12, 2009 at 02:51 PM
Your weekend looked like sooooo much fun! Enjoyed the pictures.
Ann
Posted by: Ann Burkes | October 12, 2009 at 03:04 PM
Oh how fun!!! Looks like you had a great time! I LOVE Savannah & all the great shops they have there!
What a wonderful give a way..
You are always soo generous:)
& glad you are back!!!
Hugs..
Deb:)
Posted by: Debbie Bell | October 12, 2009 at 03:12 PM
Oh my!....what a glorious time....it gives me a thought and inspiration that I might just plan on going on to Atlanta to attend such a gala....take my dils and make it a fun trip...so fun and exciting!
Ohhhh and I would love to be considered for your giveaway...the cookbooks look delicious!
So happy for you, Kim...
Hugs
Oma
Posted by: Oma | October 12, 2009 at 03:13 PM
Dear Kim,
I do so love reading your blog everyday, I delight in seeing what you do to your home. I also enjoy playing in my home as I call it. My husband says he never knows where his chair will be from one day to the other. You are a real inspiration to me and to so many others. I do not have a blog at this time, I have 3 boys and that seems to take up most of my time. Thank you for sharing all you do.
Jodi, Mississippi
Posted by: Jodi Pruitt | October 12, 2009 at 03:14 PM
Love your blog!
Posted by: Jennifer | October 12, 2009 at 03:17 PM
Gosh! You are so lucky to be able to travel! My husband had a stroke almost 11 years ago, and due to being his caregiver - I don't get away for more than a couple hours! I'd sure like to win your prize - I know I'd enjoy it!
Posted by: Francine | October 12, 2009 at 03:21 PM
(((Francine))))
Posted by: Daisy Cottage | October 12, 2009 at 03:25 PM
Kim,
Your blog always makes me smile! Although I'm a Midwestern girl, I think I could be a Southern Lady long enough to attend such a fun celebration.
Thanks for sharing your life!
Sue from Iowa
Posted by: Sue | October 12, 2009 at 03:26 PM
Wow-wee what a fun weekend you must of had. Those cakes! This NW gal is wishing she was a southern lady (for the weekend.)
Blessings! Kati
Posted by: Kati Kronholm | October 12, 2009 at 03:33 PM
What fun you must have had! I loved the cakes and gifts to math. How adorable!
Posted by: Gina | October 12, 2009 at 03:48 PM
Oh sweet daisy girl how I love to read your blog! You decorate in my colors and now with a trip to my favorite place - whew!
I would love to win cookbooks! My favorite thing. How wonderful those cakes look what a great trip that must have been.
Blessings,
Lise
Posted by: lise greene | October 12, 2009 at 04:06 PM
For those of us who couldn't go - thank you for the peek into such a delightful event. I would love to attend next year!
Your Tennessee Friend,
Faith
Posted by: Faith Bybee | October 12, 2009 at 04:07 PM
What a fantastic trip that must have been and such wonderful eye candy with all the cakes and restaurants. Thanks so much for the give away. Would love to win!
Posted by: lise wilson | October 12, 2009 at 04:08 PM
What great fun you had! I miss seeing Laurie on HGTV..she's a great designer. Would love to win the goodies!
Posted by: Laurie | October 12, 2009 at 04:10 PM
Hi Kim! What a wonderful opportunity for you. I'm glad you got to go so you could tell (and show) all of us! Those cakes were so bright and beautiful, I would have loved to have seen them.
Kathy from Clearwater
Posted by: Kathy | October 12, 2009 at 04:16 PM
I am soooooo jealous - have always wanted to attend one of their conventions - thanks for sharing it with me
Posted by: Gail | October 12, 2009 at 04:18 PM
Kim,
BRB? Be right back...I say that to my little dogs, Sofie and Bella everyday when I leave for work. Now I know how they must feel…I have checked for your return daily and looked forward to hear what all you have been up to! I am so happy your back, it sounds as if you had a splendid time. I love ‘Sweltering Savannah’ it is such a charming town!(worth the heat) Kim, you are an awesome photographer; I love the picture of the mouth-watering salad and the fun and whimsy cakes were so adorable! Thanks for taking us with you on your adventure!
Cheryl Fields
Lovington, NM
Posted by: Cheryl Fields | October 12, 2009 at 04:38 PM
What a wonderful event! I would LOVE to go next year and would love to win the giveaway!
Posted by: Debbie | October 12, 2009 at 04:40 PM
Oh what fun!! When I grow up I wanna be YOU!!!
Until then will you spoil me? I am goning to try for a win!!
Won't be home for the Friday drawing (Madigan's having another surgery) but boy I will be here first chance I get when we get back.
HUGS,
Valerie+Madigan
Posted by: Valerie | October 12, 2009 at 04:48 PM
The photos are lovely! The name of the event just says it ALL! OOoooouuu I so want to do this. Atlanta you say? Since I am newly back to menu planning I would LOVE the wonderful goodies you are giving away. YOU are the Sweetest! ;-)
Posted by: Sherri S | October 12, 2009 at 04:58 PM
Looks and sounds like a wonderful time!! I may be from the north, but I love all things southern too!! Your pictures are awesome and can make a person feel like they are right there in the moment!
Posted by: Kristie | October 12, 2009 at 05:38 PM
How fun! Bet you wanted to bring home some of those cakes trimmed with daisies! You are so sweet to share your goodies!
Connie in NM
Posted by: connie | October 12, 2009 at 06:11 PM
Oh Kim! I bet you had the most fabulous time! I am soooooo ready for a girl's night or day or weekend out! I love the beautiful things you are giving away. Please enter me in!
Hugs,
Angie =D
Posted by: Angie | October 12, 2009 at 06:16 PM
I love, love your blog. Your photography is exquisite. I was just in Savannah two weeks ago for the first time and fell in love. Look forward to your blog everyday!
Posted by: Mary
Posted by: mary brunner | October 12, 2009 at 06:23 PM
Sounds like such a wonderful trip!!! What beautiful pictures and cakes:) Glad your back!! Please put my name in for the wonderful giveaway!!
Posted by: Elma | October 12, 2009 at 06:25 PM
Oh it looks like you two had SO much fun! And that walk in the rain - without umbrellas - LOL! I'm glad your back to share 'cause I LOVE your blog!
Krystal
Posted by: Krystal | October 12, 2009 at 06:28 PM
What an amazing time away Kim! Wonderful photos & I would love to be entered in your generous giveaway ~ thankyou.
Posted by: Deb | October 12, 2009 at 07:01 PM
I love your blog, your home and your Maggie! Missed you over the weekend. What fun and what a special time you had! Joyful female energy shines through in your wonderful pics. Thanks for sharing with us and for your generous giveaway.
Posted by: Pam Roarick | October 12, 2009 at 07:02 PM
Well, I came over here to visit upon the recommendation of Rachel from Off to the West, and I'm ever so glad I did! What a delightful little spot you have here♥
and although I am strictly a Northern gal born and bred, I think I would have enjoyed that get together very much indeed... those cakes are just delightful, and almost too pretty to eat.
Posted by: Diane | October 12, 2009 at 07:05 PM
As usual..you provide information we can't get from anyone else. Hope it is cooler when I visit Savannah next week and will check out your yummy lookng lunch place.
Love all the giveaways..did you sneak a piece of cake in there ?!!
Cindy @ Happinest
Posted by: cindy h @ Happinest | October 12, 2009 at 07:14 PM
Beautiful..except the hot and sweat part, I'm against those two things ;o). I've always wanted to visit this beautiful city. Thanks for giving us a peek!
Posted by: becky up a hill | October 12, 2009 at 07:24 PM
Hi Kim, so glad u r back! I check in daily to see what you have to surprise us. More lovely pictures and things I can do at my home to make it more homey too! I am a thrifter too and go weekly to my Savers and Salvation Army stores, I swear I'm keepin them in business hahaha anyway looked like a very fun time there heat and all! hugs, kat
Posted by: kat | October 12, 2009 at 07:42 PM
I'm glad your back... I am happy that you had such a wonderful time and I am very, very glad that you brought a little of your adventure and lovely gifts back to share with all of us... wonderful pictures... everything looked so pretty ... the cakes, the presents, the town ... happy day to you...
Posted by: Debb | October 12, 2009 at 07:43 PM
Hey Miss Kim, thanks for all you share. Your wonderful pictures make me feelI amlucky enough to be right there with you! What a generous giveaway as always. Glad you are safely back. HTH Janet
Posted by: Janet K.. | October 12, 2009 at 07:44 PM
What a wonderful experience! Thanks for sharing so many pictures and details. I'd love to be a winner!
Posted by: Pat | October 12, 2009 at 08:25 PM
Oh my goodness, looks like you had a wonderful time! Thanks for sharing all that lovely eye candy!
Posted by: Gigi | October 12, 2009 at 08:34 PM
Looks like a blast. Thanks for giving us a glimpse through your excellent photography!
Posted by: Stacy | October 12, 2009 at 08:53 PM
What fun! You always give us such wonderful things to enjoy. Love the cakes and tables, just beautiful. Thank you for sharing experiences some of us can only dream of.
Posted by: Elena G | October 12, 2009 at 08:58 PM
How fun!! Looks like you guys had a blast! Please drop my name in the hat!! Thanks..
ps I just put white ball fringe onto my red lamp shade on my desk and the first person into the house NOTICED!!!
Posted by: Jenny The Red Bulletin Board | October 12, 2009 at 09:07 PM
Amazing! Wonderful photos make me feel like I am there! Those cakes are gorgeous!
Posted by: Colleen | October 12, 2009 at 09:10 PM
Hi Kim,
Welcome back! Glad you had a wonderful time. Love those cakes. Please enter me in the draw.
Thanks
Fay Marie
Posted by: Fay Marie | October 12, 2009 at 10:05 PM
Wow! Looks like a really fun gathering and boy were those cakes beautiful! I would love to win any of these wonderful books and magazines! karen...
Posted by: karen | October 12, 2009 at 10:08 PM
It sounds like you had a great time. How nice for you. What a great giveaway.
Posted by: Terry Piccolo | October 12, 2009 at 10:28 PM
Wow, I never heard of this conference sounds like such fun. Glad you were able to go and enjoy yourself. Would love to win the giveaway.
L
Posted by: Lucy | October 12, 2009 at 10:43 PM
OMG what a fabulous treat! No tricks, just treats!
Posted by: KK | October 12, 2009 at 10:57 PM
Ok I have to leave a comment. I so love your blog and you know it. I have to tell you at least once a week. I am always finding something new to do to my house on here. But you look like you had fun at the convention. So I want to try and win some of that. Living in the South I love anything Southern. Keep up the good work!
Posted by: Elisa Guthrie | October 12, 2009 at 11:13 PM
What a fun time this must have been! Love all the photos!
Posted by: Ellen | October 12, 2009 at 11:28 PM
Kentucky gal here! Found your blog a little while back and enjoy it so! you've inspired me to paint! You should try our bourbon,(Kentucky's) Woodford Reserve sometime. It's the.best.ever! try it in bourbon balls!carry on with your sweet self!
Posted by: Jennifer Ann | October 12, 2009 at 11:38 PM
It looks like y'all had the best of times. I cannot believe that so many of the ladies don't blog - and don't know about blogging!
Posted by: Jean | October 12, 2009 at 11:55 PM
What a lovely giveaway. Please enter me.
Kristen Smith
searchforgod@yahoo.com
Posted by: Kristen | October 13, 2009 at 12:06 AM
The cakes are sooo pretty! Saw that citrus cake recipe card (yummy), and oh so glad you posted. I love all the photos you take!
Posted by: Vicky Elias | October 13, 2009 at 12:07 AM
Kim, What a fun time you and your friend must have had. I loved ALL of the pictures. I would love to be entered in the giveaway. Thanks! Debbi
faustx2@yahoo.com
Posted by: Debbi | October 13, 2009 at 12:12 AM
Glad you enjoyed it...I was there last yr. and it was, well....I'll have to give you the downlow in email!
My friend and I also lost our car in a parking garage and looked and walked forever trying to find it in the rain! Ended up at Paula Deen's store!
We stayed at Tybee Island in one of Jane Costlick's cottages on the beach. To die for!
Posted by: jmac | October 13, 2009 at 12:15 AM
Looks like a world of fun, Kim! And it is so sweet of you to have a giveaway. I would love to be entered for it. Thanks so much!
XO,
Sheila :-)
Posted by: Sheila | October 13, 2009 at 12:17 AM
Fun,Fun,Fun!!! I am glad you are back and glad you had a good time.
My favorite ladies are southern you being number one Kim. I am sorry Savannah was so darn hot but still a thrill. Your photos are the best, next to being there with you and all that southern charm. Thank you. I love the cake photos and there was even one for Daisy Cottage. I miss Erica and the Gardeners Diary. I also miss Lori on HGTV. She is a sweet lady and you had a beautiful lunch with her!
Your give away is really generous Kim! There will be a happy blogger on Friday.
I will look for you tomorrow.
Nancy M.
Posted by: Nancy Hutson Maisenbach | October 13, 2009 at 12:19 AM
thank you for sharing the pictures with us..looks a wonderful time was had..isn't time spent with a good friend just the best! thank you for giving us the opportunity to win some of the wonderful gifts that you received.
Posted by: sarita | October 13, 2009 at 12:23 AM
Know you enjoyed your trip to Savannah. Sounded like yall had a ball. Would like to be entered in your give away. Also enjoy your blog.
Posted by: Name Marilu Tippit | October 13, 2009 at 12:30 AM
Oh what fun!!! I have never heard of this event, but I would have loved to go. I may have to check it out next year. I would love to be entered in your amazing give away.
Posted by: Lynnette | October 13, 2009 at 12:31 AM
Just recently discovered your blog and can't wait to read it every night! What fun your pictures are to look at. Your trip looked fabulous!! Lucky girl. We are melting here in Texas!! Fall must be coming soon. :)
Glad you are back and looking forward to your postings. Thanks!
Cindy Lane
Posted by: Cindy lane | October 13, 2009 at 12:36 AM
Oh, I would love to visit Savannah. Everything looks so lovely and genteel.
The photos are wonderful, and I do love tea. Thank you so very much!
Posted by: Julia Grant | October 13, 2009 at 12:47 AM
My friend got to go last year and she had a ball, maybe some day I can go. I hope. Florence
Posted by: Florence Muma | October 13, 2009 at 12:56 AM
Kim,
I am new reader to your blog. I love your "Daisy Cottage". It looks like you had a wonderful time in Savannah. Those cakes were gorgeous. By chance, did Edgar's Bakery make them? Also, I saw where you mentioned "White Flowers". If you ever visit Birmingham, AL; you have got to go to this shop. It is absolutely fabulous.
Thank You!
Robyn
Oneonta, AL
Posted by: Robyn Strickland | October 13, 2009 at 12:59 AM
Well, bless your heart for sharing! I loved it!
Posted by: Peggy | October 13, 2009 at 01:41 AM
Wow, really makes me wish I lived on the other side of the globe!!! What a wonderful event, just amazing, thanks for sharing.
Back to lurking now lol...!
Posted by: Linda | October 13, 2009 at 01:56 AM
I missed reading your blog. Loved all the pictures. Welcome Home
Posted by: dot oliver | October 13, 2009 at 03:12 AM
And again, a lovely post. I keep looking over and over again at those wonderfull pictures!!
Posted by: Anneke | October 13, 2009 at 04:18 AM
Kim, it's always such a joy to read your blogs and revel in your beautiful pictures! I just have to say it again, I love your blog!
Posted by: Brigitte | October 13, 2009 at 04:21 AM
Ohh how wonderful givaways:) Of course i would like to take one with me home :)
I love the pumpkin picture, you sure had a great time:) Fell free to step by at my blog, i was in Switzerland and France, and also took some pics:) Have a nice day:)
Posted by: Amalena | October 13, 2009 at 05:01 AM
Hi Kim, what a wonderful weekend you had .... I live in Australia and am getting sooo jealous of all your fall decorations - we call it autumn here and don't do any fall celebrations as you do but I'm thinking things might be different around here next year!!!
Just love your blog,
Suzyq
Posted by: suzyq | October 13, 2009 at 06:34 AM
Hey Miss Kim! I've been thinking about you lately. For some reason my bloglines hasn't been updating and I've been missing what you are up to. Sounds like you had a great trip. I sure miss the south sometimes. Hugs, Jen
Posted by: Jen@thecottagenest | October 13, 2009 at 06:59 AM
Wow! What a wonderful giveaway! It looks like you had a great time.
Posted by: Kathy | October 13, 2009 at 08:05 AM
Good morning Kim :)
It looks and sounds like you two had a great time. I would love to have been there myself, although I think I would have died in the heat. We're having an unusually cold Fall this year.
How funny that they hadn't heard of blogs! I would have thought you would have been bombarded with autographs yourself!
Glad you're safe and sound back in Daisy Cottage :)
love you,
rue
Posted by: rue | October 13, 2009 at 08:19 AM
Your photos made me feel like I was there. Sounds like you had a wonderful weekend. What a blessing.
Love your blog.
Posted by: Paula | October 13, 2009 at 08:32 AM
Looked like a wonderful time, I am so in love with Savannah, I wished I lived there. Please enter me in the give away. Thanks for your great blog.
Posted by: Aloisia Tomschin | October 13, 2009 at 08:52 AM
Oh, How I wish I could win your giveaway!!! I love your website and look forward to each new post!! I love everything southern, from being a southern lady to southern cooking! Pick Me!! Thanks for the time you put into your blog!! You have inspired me!!
Posted by: Sandra | October 13, 2009 at 08:56 AM
I want to be the lucky one to win your drawing! How fun it is to be a southern lady and a southern cook! I love everything southern. You have inspired me with your decorating and colors! Thanks so much for being!!
Posted by: Sandra | October 13, 2009 at 08:58 AM
What a wonderful event! The cakes are fabulous. Thank you for including us. Please enter me in the give away.
Posted by: Barbara Logan | October 13, 2009 at 09:21 AM
Sounds like you had a wonderful trip. Beautiful pictures as well. Please enter me in your giveaway. (I know my mom would love this great stash of items.)
Posted by: Amanda | October 13, 2009 at 09:24 AM
Sounds like you had a wonderful trip. Beautiful pictures as well. Please enter me in your giveaway. (I know my mom would love this great stash of items.)
Posted by: Amanda | October 13, 2009 at 09:24 AM
What a great package of goodies! Sounds like you had a great time.
Posted by: Rochelle | October 13, 2009 at 09:37 AM
What a fun trip. I'm so glad you got to go. I love all things Southern.
Posted by: Erin | October 13, 2009 at 09:38 AM
What fun! I would love to go to that next year! As always, I love reading your blog and you always have wonderful pictures! I'm glad you're back!
Posted by: theannadventures.blogspot.com | October 13, 2009 at 09:51 AM
I'm not a southern girl, but I'm so glad that you share the south with me! Here in the midwest, we've been having SNOW this week, so to get to share in your fun weekend was just a breath of fresh air! Thanks!
Posted by: Carla | October 13, 2009 at 09:52 AM
So fun! Thanks for sharing!
Posted by: Allison | October 13, 2009 at 09:55 AM
Oh, count me in! I was sitting here, looking at the pictures, and thinking how much fun it would have been, to be able to go there with my mother (she lives in Atlanta--I'm out here in Oklahoma)...It looks like you had an absolutely grand time. Do count me in for the drawing please. I suppose winning this would be a good second to actually being there in person! Thanks for sharing! :-)
Posted by: Rachel | October 13, 2009 at 10:01 AM
We Southern Girls know how to go on a road trip don't we...Sounds like you had a great one. Thanks for sharing.
Posted by: Rita Larson | October 13, 2009 at 10:09 AM