Spring Fever

It’s the end of February in Kansas City, and everyone has the itch. Or maybe it’s just me. I’m so excited for this next season, I can barely stand it. After months of coat wearing, and vacuuming up salt from all the snowy roads, I’m beyond ready for Spring. A few weeks ago, I popped into one of my favorite local stores, Nell Hill’s, to check out their Spring decor. I’m not a crazy seasonal decorator, but a few fresh pops do the job for me. As per usual, their selection did not disappoint.

Photography by @janellenorthwayphotography

See ya 1990

Three years ago, we purchased our current home, and have been tackling projects one at at time since. In a few weeks, we start our Master Bath, and there are literally no words to express how pumped I am. A bit dramatic, yes, but I’ve been dying to rip it out since we moved in. Our house was built in the early 1990’s, and the bathroom shows all the signs……bright brass, mirrored doors, jacuzzi bath big enough for a family of 10, you get the picture. I’m designing our new bathroom to be the updated, simpler, younger sister.

Because I love to decorate with every color and pattern in the book, I like to keep my foundations of a room simple and clean. I’ve selected all white tiles to use on the walls, floor, and shower. The hardware will all be modern brass. I have my eye on big circle rattan mirrors for above our sinks, and the vanities are going to be navy. Navy will be my one big pop of color, and I’m excited to see how this will flow into our bedroom. I’ll be posting along the way, and can’t wait to share the final product!

Meatball Soup

Winter is not my favorite, but Soup Season is! This easy Meatball Soup is one I’ve adapted from Pinterest, and continues to be one of our family favorites. It reminds me of an Italian version of Lobster Bisque, which is my favorite thing to order in the winter. My kids can be picky eaters, but they gobble this up! It’s so easy to make, and is good if you make it in 20 minutes, or have it simmering all day! And bonus points if you simmer it all day, because your house will smell amazing!

In your favorite soup pot….

28 oz of your favorite tomatoes

6 oz of your favorite tomato paste

Package of pre-made meatballs

Package of low-fat cream cheese

1 1/2 Cups of favorite chicken broth

2 Cups of fresh spinach

1 package of frozen tortellini

Italian Spices & Cajun Spice

Mix the ingredients all together & let simmer for 30 minutes. 10 min before serving add in fresh spinach & tortellini. I like to top our bowls with fresh parmesan. Enjoy!

Valentine's Day Craft

Valentine’s Day is that little holiday that either sneaks up on me, or I’m ready and waiting for it. A few weeks ago I popped into Paper Source to get some more thank-you cards. As I was browsing around the store, this Valentine’s Day Mix & Match Critter Cit caught my eye.

We’re very into crafting these days at my house, and I thought this would be a fun snow day activity, as well as cross one thing off my “mom during a holiday” to-do list.

My kids, {first grade & preschool} both loved this! The little critters are so colorful, and easy to assemble. They enjoyed, and thought it was hilarious, coming up with different combinations for their sweet friends and classmates. I love watching my kids be creative and express themselves.

Pictures by @JanelleNorthwayPhotography

The Uncorked Texan

Hi, I’m Laura Yates, also known as The Uncorked Texan. I’m a native Houstonian, but live in Kansas City where I’ve made it my home since 2008.  I’m married to my husband John, and we’re the classic story of an Aggie who met a Longhorn, while playing darts in a bar. We also have two children, Kitty Parker & Mac.  Once a former educator, I retired to stay home when my children were born. Fast forward seven years, I found myself needing to carve out a space where I can share my latest favorite book, that new restaurant, and put my design ideas to work.

My husband and I have renovated our homes over the years, and the process is something I thoroughly enjoy.  All of the aspects from selecting tile, to picking out new pillows, and everything in between.  With this passion, the design aspect of The Uncorked Texan was born. I love helping my clients update and refresh their spaces by selecting new lights, picking out that great mirror, or simply rearranging what they already have. 

I’m excited for this next chapter, and am so grateful for all the cheerleaders who have pushed and prodded me along the way. And to my sweet mother who informs me of my instagram followers, and has listened to every wild idea I’ve ever had. Love you.