Articles I'm Reading

1. I love this top on Kate // Blue Embroidered Tunuc // A Lonestar State of Southern
2. These balloons are beautiful // Filling Spaces Series Imagines Music Materialized as Pastel Pink Bubbles // My Modern Met
3. This text is the best friend & I // Guys, I have a MASSIVE zip // Babe
4. Love this cover-up // Gallabia Women's Dark Blue Moro Mini Dress // Tuckernuck 
5. These tips from one of my favorite blogs are great // Three Things I Do To Be More Productive // Design Darling 
6. Love this print for my future apartment // Austin, TX, School Series // Minted

Pink and Green

My hat is actually a Texas St. Patrick's Day edition from Banner '47 at the University Co-Op
and my shirt was a gift and I could not find anything similar online. But the items below are close!
 

Week Re-Cap

 Some of my friends and I tried the food trucks on 26th Street.

 Studying super hard for finance this week.

 Girls Night Out with my fellow Ladybirds.

 In love with the Blackout Donut from Gordough's. 

 I served on a Best of Texas panel on Saturday morning. 

 An amazing ice cream cone from Irene's {p.s. they re-instagrammed me!}. 

I missed these little cookies from my childhood. 

Studying for finance more...

Loving the view from the 5th floor of my journalism building. 

Pink Wall

Quotes of the Week

Saturday Inspiration

Articles I'm Reading

1. Those sleeves are killing me // Bell Sleeves & Pearls, LACMA // Atlantic Pacific
2. Her dress is gorgeous // Palmetto // Classy Girls Wear Pearls
3. I have always wanted to visit Fez // 36 Hours in Fez, Morocco // The New York Times
4. Oh my // 16 Indulgent Hot Chocolates in Austin // Eater 
5. Love this podcast // How Did This Get Made? // Earwolf
6. Such a cute outfit on Carly // Bermuda Shopping // The College Prepster

Week Re-Cap

I had such a wondeful spring break but this week I have been stuck in the library because of tests coming up next week. What have y'all been doing? -xoxo darling, Hayden

Breakfast taco tailgate.

A Pirates vs. Red Sox game.

My dad being too cute on St. Patrick's Day.

European American Cafe & Bakery in Fort Myers.

The parental unit and I taking in a baseball game at the Twins.

Mascots are weirdly always around my dad -- he has so many photos on his Instagram.

The Cutthroat by Clive Cussler was so good! 

Finishing off the spring break weekend in Fort Myers the right way.

101 in 1001 DONE.

Well, this day has come. My 101 in 1001 is over, after over two years of completing {or not completing} tasks, I am done with this list. A few weeks ago I posted about my failures with my list but today is all about the positives. I am really proud of what I was able to accomplish with this list so please read on to hear about them! And please let me know how your 101 is going/how it went-xoxo darling, Hayden.

When I started my list in the summer of 2014 I was a freshman going into college at UT. I had no idea what I would want or how easily/not so easily I would be able to achieve things. I was over ambitious - that much is obvious to anyone who reads my list.

But I am so happy with the things I completed/worked on, I am going to go through and talk about some of them specifically below but overall I just want to say that I love these lists. I think they challenge you to get out of your normal routine and try new things. I am really looking forward to my next one which I am going to try to have complete in a little over a month - yay! 

#2: I am so happy I was able to read at least 40 books; being in college it is really difficult to read for pleasure but I miss it so much so I made it happen. I would totally recommend the Rock Chick series y'all, it is so good.

#9: I didn't complete my goal of guest blogging for 10 people, but I got to 6 and loved doing it along the way. I had such a fun time coming up with posts and seeing people comment on my work that I had never met/talked to before.

#16: My freshman self had no idea how quickly I would eat at 10 new restaurants in Austin...and at this point I think the number is countless. I am always looking forward to trying new foods so this goal will definitely be back. 

#19: Starting a travel page for HT was really exciting, I adore traveling and being able to make guides for y'all has been so much fun. I am currently working on my guide to Austin so keep on the lookout for that! 

#31: Working at Texas Monthly has been a dream come true. I would not trade this internship for any other place in Austin. I love the people, the assignments and the occasional free Topo Chico. 

#54: Buying HT's domain name was something I had been wanting to do for a long time but never had the guts to do...sounds weird I know. But then one day I was sitting in my journalism class and I was like...you know what I am going to do it. And I did! I am so thrilled to reside at www.hautetableblog.com!

#70: I am not going to say the cliche thing that studying abroad changed my life but y'all, it was a thrilling experience. And it was made even better by my best friend coming to visit {which completed #25}.

#91: This was so fun because I love Boston and I was able to visit my friend Briana and my friend Justine. We did very different activities together and they were each super fun. I am looking forward to many more years of visiting my friends in various cities. 

Began: June 25, 2014

Ends: March 22, 2017

51 Completed; 50 left over.

1. Read five biographies (1. Lilly: Palm Beach, Tropical Glamour, and the Birth of a Fashion Legend)
2. Read at least forty new books total (1. The Black Sun, 2. How To Teach Filthy Rich Girls, 3. The Beekeeper's Apprentice, 4. The Gilded Seal, 5. On Democracy, 6. Blur, 7. The Geneva Deception, 8. Freedom Next Time: Resisting The Empire, 9. To The Lighthouse, 10. Their Eyes Were Watching God, 11. The Handmaid's Tale, 12. The House on Mango Street, 13. The Assassin, 14. The Southerner's Handbook: A Guide to Living the Good Life, 15. The Girl on the Train, 16. Rock Chick, 17. Rock Chick Rescue, 18. Rock Chick Redemption, 19. Rock Chick Renegade, 20. Rock Chick Reckoning, 21. The Look of Love, 22. From This Moment On, 23. Can't Help Falling in Love, 24. I Only Have Eyes For You, 25. If You Were Mine, 26. Let Me Be The One, 27. Come A Little Closer, 28. Always On My Mind, 29. One Perfect Night, 30. The Way You Look Tonight, 31. It Must Be Your Love, 32. Just To Be With You, 33. I Love How You Love Me, 34. Murder With Peacocks, 35. Murder with Puffins, 36. The Diamond Caper, 37. Revenge of the Wrought Iron Flamingos, 38. The Gangster, 39. Rock Chick Regret, 40. Rock Chic Revolution).
3. Unplug completely for 24 hours once a month.
4. Find an exercise buddy at UT.
5. Work on a campaign.
6. Unsubscribe from the hundreds of unwanted email lists.
7. Redesign Haute Table.
8. Host a brunch.
9. Guest blog for at least 10 people (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6).
10. Work on blog partnerships.
11. Launch a YouTube channel for Haute Table (here).
12. See a TED Talk live.
13. Do at least 5 DIY projects {1. Boot Jack, 2. Tassel Garland, 3. Burlap Garland, 4. Sugar Scrubs, 5. Whataburger Costumes}.
14. Mail care packages to BFFs from high school.
15. Write five letters a month for 12 months.
16. Try ten new restaurants in Austin (1. The Shady Grove, 2. Gourdough's Specialty Doughnuts, 3. Magnolia Cafe, 4. Kerbey Lane Cafe, 5. Amy's Ice Cream, 6. Torchy's Tacos, 7. Teji's, 8. Austin's Pizza, 9. Home Slice 10. Iron Cactus).
17. Start a new blog series.
18. Make “Gotcha Cards” for new blog series.
19. Start a travel page on Haute Table (here).
20. Visit all four museums at UT (1, 2, 3, 4).
21. Study in all ten UT libraries (1. Life Sciences Library, 2. Architecture Planning Library, 3. Chemistry (Mallet) Library, 4. Classics Library, 5. PCL, 6. Law Library, 7. Fine Arts Library).
22. Go to SXSW.
23. Visit Congress Ave. Bridge in summer to see the bats.
24. Travel to a new state {Wyoming}.
25. Take a trip with my girlfriends {Paris}.
26. Leave a 100% tip.
27. Start a book club (joined).
28. Splatter paint w/ balloons {just like the Princess Diaries}.
29. Go to at least five live music shows (1, 2, 3, 4, 5).
30. Go to a basketball game at UT.
31. Work for one of my dream magazines.
32. Clean out wardrobe at least twice {1/2 done: did before college}.
33. Go skinny dipping.
34. Attend a Bollywood dance class.
35. Drink 121oz of water a day for six months.
36. Take a cooking class.
37. Visit a flea market.
38. Cook at least five {serious, not mac & cheese} meals {1).
39. Make ten recipes off of Pinterest {1. Ombre Cake, 2. Funfetti Pie, 3. Lemon Bars, 4. Chocolate Chip Cookies, 5. Rainbow Layer Cake}.
40. Rush a sorority {didn't work out the way I hoped, but it was an experience!}
41. Find the perfect LBD.
42. Read two more Jane Austen novels.
43. Get a massage {Broadmoor Spa}.
44. Throw a surprise party.
45. See ten “classic” films {1. Lawrence of Arabia, 2. Giant, 3. Rear Window, 4. The Maltese Falcon, 5. 42nd Street, 6. Singin' in the Rain, 7. Pulp Fiction, 8. North by Northwest, 9. An American in Paris, 10. To Catch a Thief}.
46. Have a picnic {in the classic sense--with a blanket}.
47. See five Audrey Hepburn films {1. Charade, 2. Funny Face, 3. How to Steal a Million, 4. My Fair Lady, 5. Roman Holiday}.
48. Attend a ballet.
49. Pay for at least three people’s Starbucks in the next spot in line.
50. Re-visit “The Haute Table Girl.”
51. Take a photo with the Buddah.
52. Try at least three food trucks {1. Gourdough's Specialty Doughnuts, 2. Cow Tipping Creamery, Casey's New Orleans Snowballs}.
53. Run {or walk} in a Color Run.
54. Buy the Haute Table domain name {aka get rid of Blogspot}.
55. Get Haute Table 100 likes on Facebook.
56. Have an “Emma” themed movie night.
57. Do a balloon photoshoot for Haute Table.
58. Buy a lottery ticket.
59. Send a birthday card to at least five people (1, 2, 3).
60. Start Cupcakes For Charity at UT (became part of The Ladybirds).
61. Make a website for Cupcakes For Charity (see above).
62. Visit Laduree.
63. Play tennis at least three times {1. At Camp Texas}.
64. Vote in my first presidential election.
65. Make a rainbow layer cake.
66. Have sparklers at the Fourth of July (here).
67. Stop snacking for a week.
68. Get an awesome internship.
69. Become a UT tour guide.
70. Study abroad.
71. Interview someone.
72. Join 3+ clubs at UT (Longhorn Life, Cactus Yearbook, University Fashion Group).
73. Eat salad every day for one week.
74. Find the perfect romper.
75. Find the perfect foundation.
76. Have hot tea and read for at least 30min once a week for three months (did it for 2 months).
77. Get lost in a new city.
78. Attempt to join the DAR.
79. Keep fresh flowers in my dorm for a month {started Feb. 1st}.
80. Write a book.
81. Find a make-up look that works for me.
82. Give up soda once and for all [I have the occasional one & it needs to stop!].
83. Go on vacation [not a trip, like seriously sit around, read, and relax].
84. Attend a play produced by UT students.
85. Make my bed every.single.day.
86. Find the best BBQ in Texas {Black's}.
87. Get a photo with Bevo.
88. Meet/See Hillary Clinton
89. Have an illustration done of me.
90. Read T+L every month, without falling behind.
91. Visit two friends in college.
92. Attend a polo match {preferably Veuve's}.
93. Watch all of the Best Pictures from the Oscars {Room, Bridge of Spies, Mad Max: Fury Road, The Revenant, Spotlight, The Martian, The Big Short, Brooklyn}.
94. Brush up on geography of the world.
95. Join the Junior League.
96. Join the Women’s Club.
97. Sightsee on a scooter {a la Roman Holiday}.
98. Buy personalized stationary {Cartier anyone?}.
99. Ride a horse.
100. Au Pair for a summer {those movies made me want to}.
101. Inspire someone else to make a 100 in 1001 list.

South Florida Orange

The shirt is actually this one from Bealls Florida and it is on sale for less than $20! Also, these were taken at Buckingham Farms which is an amazing restaurant. 

 

Quotes of the Week

It is going to be a long week of studying but we're being hopeful. But lets be honest, I am just missing spring break...-xoxo darling, Hayden.

All of these can be found on Pinterest.

Saturday Inspiration

Week Re-Cap

I am so sorry for not posting yesterday but I have been on Spring Break and I am really taking the time to relax. I hope y'all enjoy some of my photos from the week thus far-xoxo darling, Hayden.

 Some last minute Austin eats before I hopped on my plane home.

 My parents found some of the coolest places in 

Cape Coral to try, and I am kind 

of obsessed with this Unicorn.

 Saturday morning breakfast at Crave.

 We went to the Strawberry Festival in Alva to reminisce about our family.

 Hibiscus flowers are some of my favorites from growing up.

 I finally got to try Buckingham Farms restaurant...

 ...and I was not disappointed. 

 Fort Myers Brewing is my favorite in our part of Florida.

 My dad and I are reading this amazing book about

 Jack the Ripper & his connections to Austin, Texas.

 Took in a spring training game on Monday.

 We did a lot of hiking yesterday through a training 

site that was used during WWII. 

Throwing what I know in Alva.

Quotes of the Week

Saturday Inspiration

Happy Saturday {and happy spring break to me!}. What are y'all up to on this lovely Saturday morning? -xoxo darling, Hayden

Articles I'm Reading

This week's post is very shopping/fashion centered, 

not sure how it happened but I'm in love with everything above.

1. This shirt is just so cute // Melissa Odabash Rihanna Blouse // Shopbop
2. Love this whole outfit on Kate // White Flounce Dress // A Lonestar State of Southern
3. This skirt is so gorgeous, it kills me // Denim Embroidery High Waist Skirt by Needle & Thread // M'oda 'Operandi
4. Loved these on Julia, had to look into them // Isa Tapia Nerine Slides // Shopbop
5. This dress is adorable, perfect for summer tennis match viewing // English Factory Collared Drop Waist Dress // Shopbop
6. This whole outfit is amazing // Green Gingham Miami Beach // Atlantic-Pacific

My Favorite Austin Brunches

Y'all know me. Y'all know my favorite meal is brunch, followed closely by breakfast. I love breakfast foods and I love adding mimosas to the mix. Therefore, I love brunch. And over the course of my three years in Austin I have had a lot of brunch. So why not put my favorites into a list for you guys to use if you live here or if you decide to visit the great city that is Austin, Texas? -xoxo darling, Hayden Elizabeth Street Cafe 

This is probably one of my all time favorite places in Austin because the atmosphere of the restaurant is basically my dream home. I should preface this by saying Elizabeth Street is in a converted house, but what they have done to it is magical. Not to mention the place is decorated in my favorite colors...blue, green and pink. They are a Vietnamese restaurant with a Boulangerie {I know, interesting concept} but it really works! I always get the breakfast Banh-Mi because the first time I ordered it I had no clue what it was but I was so pleasantly surprised I've been going back for more over the years. The Vietnamese coffee also blew me away so get that, I prefer it hot but some of my friends prefer it iced. Hannah really likes the house baked brioche french toast {it literally comes with ice cream}. You can also just sit at their counter, munch on a croissant, sip some amazing coffee and read the paper. But please go, if only to appreciate the amazing decor. You can read my full review of Elizabeth over here!  Frank 

Very opposite of Elizabeth is Frank, located in downtown Austin, it is very edgy. But I still love it. Frank was kind of the first place I ever really took in the brunch scene in Austin. It was with one of my good friends {who, sadly for me, transferred after our freshman year} and we wanted a fun Sunday morning experience. I don't like hot dogs but I discovered Frank had a brunch that wasn't exclusively sausage so we went. I had the chicken and waffles, something I love back at home & felt warm as soon as the first bite went into my mouth. The waffles were delicate the chicken was moist - everything about it was a wonderful experience. Plus the people watching in this place is excellent! You can find my full review of Frank here! 

Annies Cafe & Bar 

Annies has two locations and the first time I ate there I had no idea what it was called. I was waiting to catch a flight home to Fort Myers after Camp Texas only to drive back to Austin two days later. I was pretty much exhausted but I stopped by this cute place that had subway tiles in the airport. I had the tomato soup and was floored. How could airport food be so good? A few months later, LBs hosts a brunch at a place called Annies in downtown Austin...they had the tomato soup. Turns out, I ate at Annies in the airport and there is a location I can easily get to {especially now, I can see Annies from my TM building}. So please go for brunch. The tomato soup, {did you know they have tomato soup?}, is superb. They also do wonderful granola, the toast is always fresh and the bacon is extra crispy.  Russells 

The first ever LBs brunch I hosted was at Russells, the restaurant is tiny but they have a cute porch and the area around the restaurant is adorable. The wait can be incredibly long on Sunday mornings so plan to get there early, but once you do get a pancake {I prefer chocolate chip}. They are perfection from the griddle and they come with strawberry butter {I don't usually like butter on my pancakes but I love this}. I have also had the eggs and bacon which are delicious as well. They do a mean bunch of potatoes with most of their breakfast plates too. Russells is open for breakfast most days of the week so if you can't make it for brunch, go another time.  Counter Cafe

Hannah and I discovered Counter Cafe when we both had a rough week and I had just decided I was going to study abroad in London. So we were treating ourselves to a Friday brunch, a rarity for both of us. We settled on Counter Cafe because we had seen it a million times before - it is right along Lamar near the original Whole Foods. The restaurant is t.i.n.y. They have a few picnic tables outside but if you are a party of two or more it is going to be tight. They use farm fresh ingredients so be ready for fresh, fluffy eggs, warm biscuits and large rashers of bacon. Hannah got a special, fried chicken on biscuits 'n gravy and I think fell in love with the dish {pictured above}. I took my parents a few months ago and both of them loved it.   Hillside Farmacy

My favorite brunch place in town, Hillside, has a dish I cannot get enough of. Their "Big Brekkie" is very simple, eggs, bacon, toast, potatoes - but each portion of the meal is from somewhere local and it all melds so well together. The atmosphere of the restaurant is also adorable, it is set up like an old pharmacy with cases full of bottles of old-timey mixtures. The counters on the left side of the restaurant are great for group meals and the bathrooms are too cute. Hillside is what I want the kitchen in my dream home to look like, so please give it a shot.  Walton's Fancy and Staple

When I read an article interviewing Sandra Bullock and found out they were at Walton's I knew I had to go. Because a) I love Sandra and b) I love brunch. Hannah and I went one day and were amazed by their bakery case. They have the cutest macarons and their chocolate croissants reminded me of Paris. Hannah had the biscuit and gravy which was excellent {of course I stole a bite}. The hot chocolate is good and the regular black coffee will wake you up if you need it to.  Chez Zee 

Chez Zee is an experience. Like really an experience. First of all, it is huge. Second of all there are Christmas lights up all the time. And third of all their food is H U G E. The portions are gigantic but in the best way possible. If you go for your first time they will give you a free sample of their creme brulee french toast, which you will then proceed to order because it is amazing. I don't even like french toast and I loved it! Their waffles are also delicate works of art and if you order eggs, bacon or potatoes expect to have a giant portion heaped next to a basket of croissants, that's right their "basket of bread" is croissants.  No Va Kitchen

Rainey Street is always happening at night but did you know you you can get some amazing brunches there? I haven't been to Bangers {it's on my list} but I love No Va Kitchen. Deepthi and I went a while back and she really enjoyed their pancakes, I had the normal breakfast which came with sourdough toast {my absolute favorite}. It comes with a sweet, liquid-y jam that makes everything better. I suggest you eat on their balcony because there is amazing light and you can see all of the interesting things happening on Rainey.   1886 Cafe & Bakery

1886 is one of the more expensive places on this list but if you eat there you will have zero regrets. It's located in the Driskill Hotel in downtown Austin and the restaurant is so cute! Kelly green paint accents the tile and it is always crowded. I get the Austin American Breakfast which comes with eggs, country potatoes {they even have purple ones!}, bacon and the most delicious toast you could ever dream of. It is somehow sweet and salty at the same time. This place also has great people watching as it is in a hotel so you get the locals who love the food & the visitors.  Texas French Bread

If you are near the UT campus, you must grab brunch at Texas French Bread. I always love going before a football game because you will see people in burnt orange and the opposing teams colors. The banana walnut pancakes make my heart happy and they do wonderful coffee drinks. If you are in the mood for something lighter they have tons of baked goods available for consumption. 

Week Re-Cap

Some blog planning on Sunday afternoon...

I am so proud of my friend, Hannah, for standing for 12 hours for the kids! {via}

 I visited my spirit group's Texas THON team on Sunday.

Libby and I enjoying a night out.

Failure...101 in 1001.

Well, I have less than a month left...and there is no way I will come anywhere near completing my 101 in 1001. And I was kind of upset about this because I hate failure. I really and truly do. It makes my skin crawl when I can't complete something I know I should be able to. It makes me feel like if I failed at one thing, I will probably fail at everything...and we are just talking about a list of things that I thought I wanted to do, y'all can imagine what it feels like when I fail at something more important.      My 101 in 1001 was created the summer before I started college. I was so ambitious, aren't we all? I thought I could conquer the world and it would be easy. It wasn't, it isn't and it never will be. The stuff I put on my list I now look back on and cringe. And part of me thinks I didn't put enough time into thinking them all through, something which I pride myself on now - always thinking things through.       But I did complete 49 things (thus far) my goal by March 22nd is to have 51 things done, I am going to watch my last classic film and I am going to take a photo with the Buddha in Fort Myers, which is how I always wanted to cap off the end of my list. And I will make another post about the positives of my 101 when March 22nd hits us. However, I just wanted to say that it is okay not to succeed at one of these lists. I feel like I put so much pressure on myself to get it done that I started to resent it, something that should have never happened. Good did come of it so stay tuned for the post on the 22nd about all of that but I want to make sure everyone knows that it's okay to fail. It makes us better and I have already started working on my next list. I am going to take some time and put a lot of thought into all 101 items. I want to make sure that I have the time and the head-space for each item so that I will not only complete it but love completing each item. I want to feel joy, not pressure, not the overwhelming feeling I usually get when I cross off an item and decide on my next one.       I hope this gives y'all some perspective on 101 lists and that yours are more successful then mine. Just know, don't put crazy things down unless you think you can handle them {I literally put down "Au Pair for a summer" who was I kidding?!}. You can do whatever you set your mind to, don't forget that but also don't get down if what you set your mind to doesn't work out. You'll be fine in the end-xoxo darling, Hayden. 

Quotes of the Week

This might be the most relaxed I have felt starting Monday in a while. Saturday I laid in bed just relaxing, watching the British Bake Off, napping {yes, I actually napped!}, and snacking. Sunday morning I made myself some chocolate chip pancakes, visited my friends at THON and then did a ton of studying. This week I am focusing on getting ahead in all of my classes so that I can focus completely on spring break! I fly out Thursday and I am so excitied to go home. What are y'all up to this weekend? -xoxo darling, Hayden

*All of these can be found on Pinterest.*

Saturday Inspiration

Articles I'm Reading

1. Oh my goodness, I want to go to all of these, they are beautiful // 22 Unbelievable Places that are Hard to Believe Really Exist // Bored Panda
2. Love Packed Party & love Austin // Guide to Austin, TX // Packed Party
3. This top is beautiful // Endless Rose Allover Lace Top // Purple Poppy
4. I love this line of Gray prints // The Performer // Gray Malin
5. Blair's outfit is beautiful //  Woodstock, Vermont, Barbour Plaid & Duck Boots // Atlantic Pacific
6. This dress is so pretty // CeCe Delilah Ruffle Bib Dress // Nordstrom

Fort Myers Travel Guide

This is the last post about spring breaking until I do a re-cap of my spring break. I know this is last minute, but hey, we're in college maybe you need something last minute. Or maybe you can use this guide to help you if you ever want a beautiful vacation in Florida. Throughout the post I have included links to posts I have done about each thing throughout the years. And if you have any additional questions feel free to email me! You can see a ton of Fort Myers, Sanibel & Captiva on videos I have made when Hannah visited by clicking here and here. 

How to Get There:

You can either fly to Fort Lauderdale and drive two hours or fly directly to Fort Myers. I typically catch a direct flight on Southwest from Austin to Fort Lauderdale but for this break I am taking a Delta flight that stops in Atlanta before ending in Fort Myers. The airport is about a 30-45 minute drive from downtown or the beach. The airport is done up in cream tile and pale colors that really reflect the destination. 

Where to Stay:

There are many different areas in which you can stay in Fort Myers. If you are looking for downtown accommodations check out the Hotel Indigo. If you want to stay out on the islands {Sanibel and Captiva} I always recommend 'Tween Waters Inn. The property's pool was recently re-done, it is right on the water, and it has a charm that you can't get many other places. If you are feeling even more in an island state of mind, go stay on Boca Grande {aka my favorite place in the county}. The islanders don't use their cars, instead opting for golf carts and the Gasparilla Inn and Club {check out my photos here} is amazing {some presidents have even stayed there}! 

What to Do:

On Sanibel Island
First and foremost you should visit Lighthouse Beach, it is on the tip of the island and it is beautiful. My dad and I always head to this beach for the day when we do a Sanibel trip. The historic lighthouse isn't open for tours but there are some real clean bathrooms under it so be sure to visit those. You also must go to Gene's Books, it is THE book store to visit on the island. Hannah and I went this past

winter and we were blown away by the selection of books this small shop contains. If you like any form of mystery {and in any country mystery} you have to visit. The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village is a really fun way to learn about the history of the island {I've done some shoots there: here and here}. I really enjoy the kayaking trail at Tarpon Bay Explorers. It is not super hard and you get to see a lot of wildlife from the water. You can do single or double kayaks and they offer paddle-boarding. After exhausting yourself from kayaking and trust me, you will, visit Bailey's General Store they have a delicious bakery y'all. But also check out the old general store that has really cool stuff. After dinner check out Jerry's Foods which is a whole complex with an ice cream store and shops. All of the shops are wonderful on the island so just take a drive and stop in at the ones you like. The goodwill out there is amazing. Hannah and I did a whole trip to Sanibel and you can see the photos here.
On Captiva Island

My favorite thing to do on Captiva is go to the beach. If you are staying on the island at 'Tweenies you can visit their private beach which is phenomenal. The photo above was taken during sunset there. At Crow's Nest they have Crab Races {I kid you not} at night, there is a family friendly one early in the evening and a later, more adult one later in the evening. Also, a ride on Captiva Cruises is wonderful. You can go out to Cabbage Key a fun island with a restaurant that may or may not have inspired the song "Cheeseburger in Paradise" or do a nature cruise where you can see dolphins, manatees, etc. At the end of the island is South Seas Island Resort where they have a small shopping mall with really cute shops {and the only Starbucks on the islands!}. On the property they have a place called Scoops and Slices which is a 1950s themed dinner that serves ice cream and has a wall of candy. 
On Boca Grande

As I have said, Boca Grande is probably my favorite place in Fort Myers. It was named by Town & Country as the preppiest place on Earth. They have a pink train depot, Lilly Pultizer in the shop windows and people dressed in polos and Bermuda shorts on bikes {you can see one of my outfit posts shot in downtown here}. If you are there you must walk around the downtown, stop by the former train depot, go shopping in the little shoppes and visit Gasparilla Island State Park. The park features my mother's favorite building (maybe) on Earth. The Port Boca Grande Lighthouse, with its unique shape is the perfect thing to take photos of (my mother has a blown up photo in her office). You can get tours and sometimes go up in the lighthouse itself.  In Fort Myers: 

So my official hometown has quite a few things to do. The first thing I would suggest is the EdisonFord Winter Estates. Thomas Edison "wintered" here so you can visit his home and his lab where he made rubber. If you remember my prom photos, I took them at this lovely site. You can get different kinds of tours of the homes and labs or you can just walk around the site. The plants are all either native or tropical so the gardens are beautiful. After that, head downtown. You can walk along First Street and stop in the shops. My favorite is The Franklin Shops, which is a large store with tons of tiny stores inside. The Sidney Berne Davis Center is beautiful at night. The outside is lit up with words to create a magical effect. There are always events going on, Art Walk, Music Walk, etc. Main Street Antiques and Collectibles is a fun place to go with your friends to try on crazy clothes too. The Arcade Theater hosts Florida Rep, which is an award winning theater. They do amazing work and everytime I am home I see a show there. Centinnial Park is a fun place to walk along the Caloosahathee River and there is a cute playground for kids. After you are done downtown, head toward Lakes Park a local park that features swan paddle boats, those fun four-person bikes, and if you have kids/act like a kid there is an awesome water park. You should also visit Fort Myers Beach for a day or two, the beach is really nice at Bowditch Point Park. Mound House is also really interesting - it's a Calusa Indian Mound. Speaking of Calusa Indian Mounds, Randell Research Center on Pineland is one of my favorite things in Fort Myers. They just discovered another Calusa Indian Mound and it is.so.cool. Honestly, my dad and I go out there whenever they find new things. After the mounds visit Matlacha which is pronounced Matt-La-Shay {I know, it's crazy}. This little island town is quirky and colorful...and downright crazy. I am good friends with a very popular and kind of amazing artist, Leoma Lovegrove so make sure to stop by her gallery. The Matlacha Menagerie has beautiful pots and clay-wares that I love to look around. After jaunting around the various galleries, buying tons of amazing artwork, stop by Great Licks Ice Cream shop for a little pick-me-up.  Where to Eat: On Sanibel:    Lighthouse Cafe - Probably my favorite breakfast place in all of Florida, Lighthouse has the best bacon. I mean seriously, if you love crispy bacon, this is for you. They also feature delicious hotcakes, nicely buttered toast, and flavorful potatoes. Their eggs are also fluffy and buttery. Honestly I could go on and on about this place, it is so so so so good. Please go, it is on the way to Lighthouse beach and the decor is lighthouse inspired.     Island Cow - This eclectic and fun restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They serve you delicious muffins before your meal {try to get the funfetti kind!}. Hannah & I adore their pastas; whenever she visits it is one of our first stops on the island. The atmosphere is not perfect for Instagramming but the lighting in the mornings is perfect for a photo of your table full of pancakes.     Doc Fords - If you are into seafood or cuban sandwiches, Doc Fords brand new location on Sanibel is for you. The restaurant is based on books written by Randy Wayne Wright and hosts lots of items from the books. I always go for the Cuban sandwich but people seem to love the Yucatan Shrimp. 

   Schnapper's Hots - I discovered this adorable hot dog stand on my last trip to Sanibel with Hannah. We had just finished kayaking and were really craving burgers {I realize it's a hot dog stand but I just do not like the taste of hot dog meat}. Their fries really compliment the cheeseburger and they serve ice cream as well. There aren't a ton of seats inside the restaurant but they have seats out back.     Pinocchio's Ice Cream - Hannah and I are obsessed with this place. Their ice cream is over the top creamy, they pack ice cream cones so full you can't finish them and they come with animal crackers on top. My favorite flavor is the Dirty Sand Dollar, which is carmel, malt, malt balls and chocolate chunks...so good.
On Captiva:   Mad Hatter - This is technically on Sanibel but you are almost to Captiva so we are going to count it. Mad Hatter is great if you are looking for a more upscale dinning experience with a beautiful view of the sunset. The Black Grouper is superb and the Chocolate Truffle Terrine is to die for. During season make sure to call ahead and get a reservation. The restaurant is small and fills up fast.
   Bubble Room - If you love crazy things, giftshops, people dressed like abbreviated Boy Scouts, and cake...this place is for you! The Bubble Room is a true Captiva classic and I always am willing to take my friends there for dessert. In my opinion the food is overpriced and not very good, but the cake. The cake is amazing. Make sure to have your cake in the restaurant the first time you visit {after that get it to go and eat it on the beach}, the atmosphere in the restaurant is wild and there are tons of photo opportunities {I reviewed the restaurant here}. For the perfect Instagram shot, either have a photoshoot with your cake or take it with the wall in the parking lot covered in bubbles. 
On Boca Grande:     Miller's Dockside - I have never been to another restaurant on Boca Grande because I am so loyal to Miller's. The dining is alfresco, right on the water {it's literally dockside} and the food is always delicious. I have had a chicken sandwich, burgers, grouper, and so many other things -- all delicious. Sometimes they even have the most amazing sweet potato fries! 
In Fort Myers:     Fancy's - If you are looking for amazing southern fare, Fancy's is your best bet. I have been going there for years {throwback to my birthday dinner}. Lunch or dinner are great, the chicken and waffles are a must have. If you aren't feeling that they do a mean grilled cheese {with sweet potato fries} for lunch and their banana pudding is perfection.
   Norman Love - This is a new one for me but now that I know it exists I am super into it. Go to Norman Love not for the chocolates because I am not a huge fan and they are super expensive. Go for their artisan gelato and baked goods because those are amazing. Their new chocolate salon is on the way to the beach!      Sun Harvest - If you follow me on Instagram {@hautetable/@haydenpigott} you know I am obsessed with this place. Florida is known for citrus {obviously} but SH takes it to a whole new level. Their orange and vanilla ice cream swirl cones are a delight in the summer. And they offer free samples of their orange juice, which is fabulous. It is on the way to the airport so stop when you get off the plane and right before you get back on.      Golden Fork Cafe (CLOSED) - This is the perfect breakfast place to stop in at before you visit downtown or the Edison Ford Winter Estates. They have light & fluffy pancakes, soft eggs and crispy bacon. It is one of my favorite places to get breakfast in my hometown and it's always relatively quiet so if you like to read the paper in the morning go here!       McGregor Cafe - I adore the patio at McGregor Cafe because it is under a ginormous tree and you sit where you can see the road. It is the perfect place to people watch while sipping on a iced tea from a large ball jar. They offer a variety of sandwiches and salads; most of it is delicious so you can't go wrong. I typically go for the "Wild Thing" which is roast beef, herb garlic cream cheese, lettuce and onion on a toasted croissant. My mom loves the chicken salad; it comes with some type of flavored pound cake which is always a treat. 
     Three Fishermen - I should preface this by saying seafood is not my favorite. In fact it is probably my least favorite category of food possibly ever. However, I have been going to Three Fisherman since I was little and their grouper is phenomenal. It is on the water, with a great view of downtown and their hushpuppies are A+. Get the homemade apple sauce as a side with your fish because who makes applesauce anymore?!           Crave - Crave is my go to for a classy brunch with my girlfriends. The restaurant is tiny but they serve delicious chocolate chip pancakes and they have quality coffee. Their lunch menu also features traditional foods {you can even get adult chicken fingers}. It is kind of like a really classy diner.        Heavenly Biscuit - This Fort Myers Beach stop has the best cinnamon roll I've ever had {read my post all about it here}, and I don't like cinnamon roles. They also serve huge biscuits full of different things {I'm a big fan of fried chicken in mine}. Bring some friends because you won't be able to finish it by yourself.
     (REDACTED, they supported the January 6th Capitol sedition)  Publix - Wait...Hayden, why would I eat at a grocery store? Lemme tell you, you don't have to actually eat there, get it to go and take it to the beach. The Publix Sub {affectionately called the PubSub} is quite honestly the best thing to come out of Florida...maybe not but definitely close. The grocery store has a deli and they make fresh sandwiches at all hours of the day. My favorite is the Ultimate, which comes with three different meats, cheese, lettuce and whatever other toppings you want. Please go, you won't regret it.        The Bagel Factory - The Bagel Factory is my favorite place in Fort Myers. There is this hometown feel about the place, the bagels are the yummiest things I've ever tasted, and it reminds me of my family. Everyone in the place knows one another but that doesn't mean they aren't friendly to outsiders. We've been going there since before I can remember and now we go every Sunday {so if you're there you'll see me looking real sleepy - stop by and say hi!}. Get the Everything Bagel with plain cream cheese toasted.       Wisteria Tea Room - My dad and I love this place for our more exciting events, like before I left for London and before I go back to college. When we to Wisteria Tea Room my dad is the only guy in the place but the food is so.good. It's your typical tea house with lace table cloths and mismatched china. The roast beef panini is always warm with the cheese oozing out. The soups are also delicious; I'm a huge fan of the chicken and rice.       Bennett's Fresh Roast - Donuts that make your heart sing...literally how I feel about this place. When they opened when I was little I soon became obsessed. Their donuts are little pillows of goodness and the plain donut with chocolate icing and the trio of chocolate chips is beautiful. Their cinnamon twist is baked to perfection.       Bert's Bar - Bert's is amazing for lunch or dinner when you're out on Matlacha. You can sit on the dock or pull up your boat. There is typically live music on the weekend and it is very basic. Like the atmosphere is a beach shack, nothing more. Their grouper is A+ and the homemade chips make me incredibly happy.  These are the videos I made of Hannah & I's trips in Fort Myers, I linked them above but here they are in their entirety. They give a good overview of the destination in general.

Week Re-Cap

 Pulling for our Texas Women's Basketball team earlier this week.

 The Ladybirds got their anoraks in and it rained!! 

 It was time for BLiCAW {again I know!} so we went as a 

pizza delivery boy & the pizza box.

 Of course we celebrated National Margarita Day...we live 

in Texas for goodness sakes.

Love this group! 

I bought my class ring! {via}

 Friday night some of us went out! 

 On Saturday we particiapted in The Project, UT's largest day of service. 

 Serena & I tried The Old Pecan Street Cafe, which we loved. 

 I had an Oscars party for my sisters on Sunday {yay Moonlight}!

 Eryn & I went to the Texas baseball game on Tuesday {we won}!