Oh my gosh you guys, Will and I used to come here every. single. night.  Come rain or shine, we walked the beach in winter and swam in the spring and summer.   It was our work break, our ‘out of office’ moment.  Since the baby has been born, we have spent more time exploring our neighborhood and enjoying leisurely bath and bedtime routines at home.  Last night, Will and I went out for a quick date to our favorite Charleston restaurant, The Obstinate Daughter, on Sullivan’s Island.  We couldn’t resist a quick walk on the beach beforehand to see how the sea temperature was coming.  It was balmy! I cannot WAIT to swim — I would have gone straight in if I had my suit.  Even if it meant wet hair for dinner.  Now that the baby is older, I am sure that we will be spending long summer days here.  But first, France!!

My lovely friend Julia got this dress for me from Club Monaco.  I love it, it is my favorite color.  I have been super into the ‘off the shoulder’ look since re-watching Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil a few years ago.  John Cusack’s lady crush wears this amazing off the shoulder top which is so casual and flattering and perfect for the southern humidity (and so feminine).   Right after I watched it, the off the shoulder look came flying back into stores but then I got pregnant and felt that it wasn’t very flattering on me while I was carrying a bump.  I am finally catching up, flattering or not, and I love it.  This dress feels like it could be paired with heels (like here) or sandals, or even thrown over a bathing suit.   It know that I will be wearing it a lot of in France, to the markets and beyond!  The full ruffle doesn’t display well in the wind but it makes me feel great regardless.

We are thrilled that the OD now has the full menu outside — do NOT miss the geechie frites if you go! It was so nice to sit outside and linger over a glass of wine, it got me even more excited to chill this summer and enjoy long, tasty lunches and dinners with friends.  xx