Cast Iron Memories

Phyllis Inspiration 33 Comments

Many of us who grew up in the South have wonderful memories of the heirloom cookware used by our mothers and grandmothers. Today I’d like to share with you this witty and heartwarming story from Taste of the South editor Josh Miller. His grandmother’s fried chicken legacy is sure to live on for generations. As told by Josh Miller My …

Let French Style Inspire You

Phyllis Inspiration 17 Comments

I have long been enchanted with the lifestyle of France. Even when my travels don’t spirit me away to that land, whenever I seek French inspiration, I refer to my magazine and book collection that focuses on its people, décor, and food. Hoffman Media’s new 208 page, hardcover book French Cottage is designed to allow our readers to peek into homes …

Teaching Kids Table Manners

Phyllis Inspiration, Lifestyle 52 Comments

I have two of the most animated grandchildren in the world. They are so much fun and are so full of life. Now for those of you who have grandchildren, you are sharing my thoughts! I am often asked about etiquette for children and specifically table manners. My, what a subject: table manners for children. When I was growing up, …

An Egg Smocking Legacy

Phyllis Décor, Inspiration 21 Comments

No matter how you typically decorate Easter eggs, I think you’ll be touched by this beautiful story from Lucy Finney, one of our photo stylists and a model for Classic Sewing magazine. Her mother, Betty Carter, created quite the egg smocking legacy! Thank you, Lucy, for sharing this. Happy Easter! Love, Phyllis “When my mother, Betty Carter, was young, each year …

A Coconut Cake That’s Perfect For Entertaining

Phyllis Blog Spotlight, Inspiration, Lifestyle 4 Comments

In the south, we love to entertain. Whether hosting intimate Sunday suppers or formal soirees, we pride ourselves on being gracious hosts and paying keen attention to detail. Of course, most gatherings would not be complete without our favorite recipes, and assembling a lineup of delicious dishes is frequently the focus of the Southern hostess preparing for company. This stunning …

Seasons of Williamsburg

Phyllis Décor, Inspiration 11 Comments

Those of you who know me totally understand my obsession with Williamsburg. I love the city in all seasons, and I have written about my experiences there many times. Strolling down Duke of Glouster Street and observing the beautiful gardens inspires creativity. On one of my last visits there during the holidays, I visited a favorite place of mine, Seasons …

Floral Arrangements at Biltmore

Phyllis Blog Spotlight, Inspiration 10 Comments

Asheville, North Carolina is home to a favorite place of mine, Biltmore. Neal and I visited Biltmore last month so that I could see the fashion exhibit that is currently on display throughout the house. I was working on a feature story for the next issue of Classic Sewing and wanted to see the re-creation of Cornelia Vanderbilt’s incredible wedding …