Ok, so this is the second part of my bday celebration… I am such a lucky girl.  Where do I even begin?  Well, it all started out when Steven had offered to prepare an intimate meal for me and a couple of my girlfriends to celebrate my bday.  The day that worked out happened to be on Cinco de Mayo – and so the fiesta theme ensued.  I was so excited that even though I had already invited the girls, I decided to hand make some formal invites.  Then my handy work too off!  I created some fun decor inspired by Pinterest.  I even made my own pinata!!!!  I plugged it with lottery scratch offs, candy buttons, stationary, nail files, car air fresheners, granola bars, and dark hershey kisses.  It went over great:)  The drinks Steven served us were delicious, the dinner was oh-so fabulous, and the photo booth was tons of fun!    The mexican chocolate cake that Steven made for me was fantastic.  I should know, I took a big bite out it even before anyone sang to me – it was a riot!

An extra special ‘thank you’ has to go out to my hubby, Steven.  Without his idea and master cookery, this wouldn’t have been possible.  Thanks for making dreams come true, Babe.  Love ya!

It’s official, my new style blog has launched and I’m so excited!!!  From fashion, food, design, even travel – just a simple blog devoted to all things ‘spottswood style’.  I can’t wait to hear what you think.  Please visit and subscribe.

My Mom and I share a very special friendship, one that we have both worked for.  She’s always been there for me, but also helped me stand on my own two feet and get to where I am today.  When I think about all of the memories we have shared it really warms my heart.  Like… how about all of those school field trips she went on with me and my classes… or the auditions and jobs she drove me to when I was a kid.  There were the themed bday parties and sleepovers she let me have.  Or the ‘gopher teeth’ face (see below) she would make when my little sis and I would make her angry.  Even when the answer was ‘no’ I later appreciated why.  The late night phone calls she spent up with me during college – I never felt rushed to get off of the phone.  She helped shape me.  We are very similar and also very different.  It’s the love that binds us, but the friendship that keeps us so close.

I’m very thankful for my Mother, my Friend.

I love you Mom and even though we are miles apart today because you are in Europe enjoying a very well deserved trip to Belgium, we anxiously await your return so we can celebrate with you.  Always, Sarah

Thanks to Carol & Charlie from Artists Eyes Photography for capturing these images for us.

One of my dearest friends, Carol, offered to prepare a beautiful dinner for a bunch of us since her daughter’s bday was also around the same date. Have you ever had birthday cake vodka? Well, let me tell you… that little sprinkle dipped glass was very smooth going down. I enjoyed every bit of it… and the entire evening for that matter. Charlie manned the camera while we all struck a pose. Carol wanted the mothers and daughters to have a portrait taken.  I love the one of my mom + me – can’t wait to post it;)   It really was quite an event to remember, I know I always will. Love you Carol and Charlie – you are such treasured friends. I’m so honored.   Love, Sarah

Next week is birthday party – part deux, where Steven throws me a Cinco De Mayo fiesta!

Photo Credit: Artists Eyes Photography

Our friends Carol & Charlie taught a painting class for couples last month at Uptown Art Uncorked in Sussex.  We had such a blast!  We were given 2 canvases and had to create 1 piece of art.  I thought that Steven and I did pretty well as a team.  I love the painting we created together.  A bucket of beer or bottle of champagne was included in our course fees – bonus!  Carol, having been a former art teacher at Hartford High, is an exceptional instructor (as is Charlie:).  You should definitely take one of her classes coming up this month.  But hurry, they fill up fast!