Thursday, September 13, 2012
Project Game Day is better on Facebook!
PGD readers, for the most up-to-date content, please visit Project Game Day's page on Facebook.
Monday, September 10, 2012
You really CAN make this!
Image: Another Day in R Life
It seems like craft projects usually fall into one of two categories - either they are easy enough for us to realistically accomplish . . . and they look like it, or they're gorgeous and professional looking, but the instructions reveal that you need an art degree and access to heavy equipment to make them. Not this one! This gorgeous burlap hogs wreath is simple, unique, and although it is DIY, it looks like something you could easily find at one of those extremely stylish home boutiques like Haus Werk or The Full Moon.
Also, you should really check out Melissa's amazing blog, Another Day in 'R' Life, which is absolutely full of genius ideas - I will definitely be posting more from this blog!
Oh, and just as an example of the geniusness, check out the wreath-hanger in the photo above; it's painted the same color as the door and blends in perfectly. So smart!
Sunday, September 9, 2012
Keep a few on hand for hostess gifts
Image: Etsy
Etsy seller Bugsy and Sprite has these awesome Fayetteville art prints, available in a variety of colors, for $20. I say, buy several, and you'll never be at a loss for a great hostess gift when visiting friends during football season.
While red may be a no-brainer as far as color choice, be creative and go for a few unusual colors as well - how great would this be in a sorority's colors as a gift for a proud new pledge or in pale pink or blue as nursery decor for a future Razorback?
Subtle Sooie
Image: Etsy
These simple and subtle (but so unique!) brass studs are available on Etsy from seller Arkie Style for $25.
I need this!
Image: J. Crew
PGD readers, sometimes I stumble upon game day finds that are just so perfect I have to assume the cosmos intended for me to order them . . . this J. Crew blazer, available in every size in red, is now on sale, marked down from $130 to $79. Get is while it lasts!
Easy DIY Razorback canvas - great hostess gift!
Image: Building a House of Love
This is probably the easiest craft tutorial I've ever seen (it helps that you simply trace a Razorback car magnet to get the hog shape), but that doesn't change the fact that it is super cute. I think that a personalized canvas like this would make a perfect hostess gift or Razorbacks-themed wedding shower gift.
By the way, check out Katie Brockmeyer's adorable blog Building a House of Love for even more cute projects like this.
Happier times
Image: Sarah Longtin (from Facebook)
This sweet photo of Sarah Longtin and Kathryn Paige Dawson at yesterday's game reminds me that we need to continue to enjoy tailgating this football season, even if we can't really enjoy the games. Project Game Day has never really been a football blog - we're a tailgating blog - so, despite the Hogs' setbacks on the field, we'll continue to enjoy another great Arkansas tailgating season!
Saturday, September 8, 2012
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Follow PGD on INSTAGRAM!
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Yeah, this is only going to last one game . . .
Texting ServiceThe University of Arkansas' Athletics Department will provide a fan text messaging service inside War Memorial Stadium. The service allows fans to communicate directly with event management personnel in important security and guest issue situations. Fans needing assistance should text HOGS your issue and location to 69050. Standard text message rates and other charges may apply. Razorback fans are reminded that they also can contact the nearest usher or security personnel, or stop by the nearest guest services location to report an issue.
There's still time to shop before the game
Ember Boutique in the Heights (only a few miles from the stadium!) is selling this solid red 3/4 sleeve shirt dress for only $38.
Friday, September 7, 2012
Little Rock may not have Dickson Street
Image: TownMapsUSA.com
But you shouldn't have any trouble finding great spots near War Memorial to eat, drink, and socialize before and after the game!
Are you looking for a great burger, a cold beer (or cocktail), or maybe some delicious sweet potato fries? Try The House Gastropub, located in Hillcrest at 722 N. Palm St., less than a mile from the stadium. The House is a short walk (15 minutes!) from War Memorial, and you can rest your feet, sip hand-crafted cocktails or choose from their great beers on tap, and chow down on really good fresh local food - everything is hand made daily and is really yummy! The tzatziki platter is a great option - hummus, tzatziki, feta, peppers, olives, pickled red onions, and a hefty drizzle of olive oil served with focaccia bread. A snack for two or a meal for one! You can check out The House on Facebook and view their menu. Oh, and The House has a great patio, and their kitchen stays open late - usually until at least 10, if not later. Try their awesome brunch from 10-2 Saturday or Sunday (hair of the dog . . . ?), and their happy hour from 11-7 every day.
Another great option, especially for post-game drinks, is Ciao Baci in Hillcrest. Ciao Baci has an amazing wrap-around porch, tasty cocktails, and it is definitely a see-and-be-seen spot for young professionals. While Ciao Baci can be a bit pricey, and you shouldn't be surprised to see girls in full-on cocktail dresses and heels, you'll also fit in just fine post-game in jeans and flats or a sundress and sandals. Ciao Baci makes amazing sangria (both red and white), and if you have a sweet tooth (and were lucky enough to snag a table), their s'mores are a huge hit, complete with open flame to toast your marshmallows. Ciao Baci is also less than a mile from the stadium - you can walk there in less time than it would take to get your car out of the parking lot after the game!
If you're looking for something much more casual - think jeans, pool tables, and canned beer - try The Fountain in Hillcrest. They have a small but lively back deck, but be warned: The Fountain is always super smokey. You can't walk through there without smelling like an ash tray when you leave. My personal opinion is that The Fountain is basically a smokier, more expensive indoor version of tailgating, so why leave the golf course? But, it tends to be very popular, especially with the college-age crowd, so if you'd like to check it out, directions are available here.
Do you need a bit of crunchy greasy fried food to sop up the, ahem, liquid refreshments you've been enjoying all day? Try The Oyster Bar, 1.4 miles east of War Memorial on Markham Street. It's an easy walk, but the street is fairly busy, so watch for traffic. While The Oyster Bar obviously has great oysters, I recommend the ice cold pitchers of beer and their po'boys. Make sure you try their fried asparagus appetizer - you won't regret it!
Don't forget to send in your photos!
Image: Chet Gordon Photographer
Whether you plan to pose the kiddos in front of the stadium in their Razorback finery or just snap a few pics with your iPhone on the golf course, don't forget to send your photos into to Project Game Day - it's easier than ever! Now that PGD has a Facebook page, you can simply post your photos to our wall, or send us a message with the photos. Or, if you prefer, email us at projectgameday@gmail.com.
And if you aren't already following PGD on Facebook, be sure to "like" us while you're there!
Weatherman: layers, with a chance of jeans
What if meteorologists told you what you really wanted to know, like whether the temperature will drop so much by the end of the game tomorrow night that you should forgo the sandals in favor of flats, or whether you need to pack your rain jacket?
Well, the website Daily Dress Me does just that. This great website, shows you the high and low temp for the day, the chance of rain, and a sample outfit idea perfect for those condition. Not crazy about the outfits they are showing? Hit refresh on your browser and the page will reload with all new outfits. (All outfits are from Forever 21). Tip: If your page somehow gets reset to the Los Angeles location, go up to your address bar, delete "Lost+Angeles, CA" and replace it with "Little+Rock, AR" - easy as pie!
Well, the website Daily Dress Me does just that. This great website, shows you the high and low temp for the day, the chance of rain, and a sample outfit idea perfect for those condition. Not crazy about the outfits they are showing? Hit refresh on your browser and the page will reload with all new outfits. (All outfits are from Forever 21). Tip: If your page somehow gets reset to the Los Angeles location, go up to your address bar, delete "Lost+Angeles, CA" and replace it with "Little+Rock, AR" - easy as pie!
So, for example, on a sunny day with a high of 91 and a low of 68, they suggest that you wear this:
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Comfy shoes are essential
Image: Alloy
These red and white striped skimmers are perfect for warm weather games. They are on clearance now at Alloy (only $14.99!) and are still available in red and white in sizes 5.5 through 8.
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Instant outfit
Image: Modcloth
Very cute red jacket, perfect for game days, and it is available at Modcloth for only $79.99. The best part: simply top of any simple tee and jeans, and you've got a great game day outfit.
Razorback lilies
Image: My own, from Instagram
Okay, so they're actually spider lilies, but they might as well be Razorback lilies - they grow really well in Arkansas, bloom during football season, make gorgeous cut flowers to decorate tailgates and watch parties, and they're Razorback red!
You can buy bags of spider lily bulbs at any big box chain store (I got mine at Sam's, but I've also seen them at Home Depot). Plant them in full sun, with the tops of the bulbs just below the surface (or barely peeking through), and every fall you'll have a surprise pop of red when everything else in your garden is fading.
This may be my favorite post ever
Image: How Sweet It Is
Dark chocolate bourbon cherry floats . . . seriously, ya'll, Dark Chocolate. Bourbon. Cherry. Floats. I can't fully wrap my head around the genius of these desserts/cocktails. And they're simple and easy! Oh, and red! Possibly the perfect watch party beverage.
[Recipe from How Sweet It Is, inspired by the float at BRGR]
serves 2
1 pint of dark chocolate ice cream
4 ounces of bourbon
2 bottles of cherry soda
Fill glasses with ice cream. Pour in 1-2 shots of bourbon (or lots more). Pour in soda. Drink. Enjoy!
Woo woo woo all the way home
Image from Etsy
How cute is this?! It is so perfect for a baby shower gift or newborn photos. Etsy seller Jada Wilkins Power sells adorable onesies like this for $20.
We all heart bacon
Image: The Paper Mama
Are you planning on serving BLTs or bacon cheeseburgers at your next tailgate or watch party? Take two minutes to make these cute bacon hearts, which not only look adorable, but serve the very practical purpose of creating a solid disk of crispy bacon to top a sandwich, and your guests will be blown away. I mean, who doesn't love bacon?!
Iced Irish
Image from Peanut Butta Runna
This is pure genius: freeze coffee in ice cube trays, fill a glass with the cubes, and top with Bailey's. This could work really well in a big thermos for tailgating on early morning game days. Yum!
Monday, September 3, 2012
Sangria two ways
Option one: Easy Mango Peach Sangria (recipe and image both courtesy of LifeHack.org) -
Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup water
- 1 cup Grand Marnier
- 1 bottle Viognier
- 1 mango, chopped
- 2 peaches, cut into thin wedges
- 1/4 cup mint
In a saucepan, cook the sugar and water until the sugar dissolves; transfer to a pitcher and refrigerate until cold. Stir in the Grand Marnier, Viognier, mango, peaches and mint and serve over ice.
Serves: 2-3
Note: Voigner is a dry, crisp white wine, so you can easily substitute Pinot Grigio for Voigner in this recipe.
Option two: Sangria on the porch at Ciao Baci!
Will you be calling the hogs in Little Rock next weekend? Ciao Baci is a cozy restaurant and bar in the Hillcrest neighborhood, close to War Memorial Stadium. Ciao Baci is known for its gorgeous wrap-around porch and its delicious sangria - perfect for an early fall football weekend!
Vintage Arkansas glass - hostess gift
Staying with friends for a Razorback game this season? Don't arrive empty handed - Southern guests know the importance of a thoughtful hostess gift.
This vintage white and red Arkansas glass is available on Etsy (from shop Jewelcard) for only $5. Fill it with a small red flower arrangement, and it will make a beautiful and unique hostess gift. This would be great paired with a nice bottle of wine.
Personalized Platter
This adorable serving platter is available at Blue Bird Gift Company on Etsy for $40 - and that includes personalization! What is it about the South - we put our names on everything! I don't think I've ever seen a monogram I didn't love.
It's in the details
According to InStyle Magazine, Nars Jungle Red is the best red nail polish of 2012. They say that the bright, true red has the "perfect balance of warm and cool tones," and flatters all skin types. Is it really any different from the red polish you wore in 2011? Probably not . . . but if you're in the market for a new red nail polish, here's a great one to try. $18, available at Sephora.
Instant party
Photo credit: Nearness of Distance
So, usually I like to recommend tailgate gear and decor that you can use year after year. It's better to invest in a gorgeous red serving platter to set the theme rather than buying dozens of Razorback paper plates each football season. The exception to the rule: BALLOONS! Yep, simple red (or red and white) helium-filled balloons are available at just about every grocery store, are unbelievably cheap, and set a party atmosphere better than almost anything else (okay, so booze and music probably come in first and second, but balloons are a close third!). For a recent party I got a dozen helium balloons from my neighborhood Kroger - six red and six white - for only 99 cents! Now, the cashier seemed a bit confused, so I can't guarantee that that's the standard price, but according to the Internet, you should easily be able to get a dozen balloons just about anywhere for under $3. Mine came already decked out with tons of curly red ribbon and held down by heavy clips, which made decorating with them a breeze. Another great source for simple helium-filled balloons: the dollar store! There is pretty much no easier, faster, and cheaper way to turn your house into an instant watch party.
Easy game day tabletop
Southern Living Tailgate Checklist
Image courtesy of Southern Living
Seems a bit much to me - I say, bring an insulated soft cooler of food and cocktails (premixed in a water bottle), and weather-appropriate layers if necessary. Done!
But here's what Southern Living recommends:
Game-Day Checklist
Don't leave home without these outdoor essentials. Shop at www.tailgatetown.com for some cool tailgating toys.
- Outdoor chairs and folding tables
- Tailgate tent or canopy
- Packed coolers
- Matches/lighter and charcoal (for a portable grill)
- Cookware and utensils
- Condiments
- Bottle opener
- Paper towels, napkins, and wet wipes
- Plates, cups, plastic ware
- Trash bags
- Extra blankets
- Rain gear (umbrella, poncho, boots)
- Hat
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Bug repellent
- Bottled water
- Camera, binoculars
- First aid kit
- Your tickets!
Weddings at War Memorial?!
I had no idea!
Image courtesy of http://www.wmstadium.com/
I was checking the War Memorial Stadium website for information about the Razorback game this Saturday, and I stumbled upon this fun bit of info:
Saturday, September 15th, 5:30 to 8:00, "Wedding" . . . no additional information.
Now I'm curious! Anyone ever attended a wedding at a football stadium?
Sunday, September 2, 2012
Touchdown Tea
Image courtest of taylortakesataste.com
From the geniuses at www.intoxicology.net, PGD is excited to bring you Touchdown Tea - a simple, yummy, and SEC-appropriate tailgating libation.
Touchdown Tea
1 oz Jack Daniels
2 oz Lemonade
2 oz Sweet Tea
PGD has a Facebook page!
Yep, you can now follow us on Facebook and share all your great tailgating pictures and ideas right on our wall!
So, please head on over to Facebook and LIKE Project Game Day!
Project Game Day Facebook Page
So, please head on over to Facebook and LIKE Project Game Day!
Project Game Day Facebook Page
Purse police
No more giant purses: The U of A has issued new size restrictions for bags allowed into Reynolds Razorback Stadium
New Bag Policy for Razorback Football Games:
This policy reflects the University’s ongoing commitment to recommendations from
Department of Homeland Security. Except for bags required for child care or
medical conditions, all bags, back packs, fanny packs, camera and binocular
cases or other similar items and purses larger than 14” long (side-to-side) x
10” wide (front to back) x 10” deep (top to bottom) are prohibited. All purses
allowed into the stadium will be searched. Containers measuring 14” long x 10”
wide x 10” deep will be placed at each entry to Donald W. Reynolds Razorback
Stadium, shuttle pick up locations and selected parking lots. Purses that do
not fit into the container will not be permitted inside the stadium.
More information available here.
Tailgate nap break
Sweet baby Rose Unger proves that there is an exception to every rule: passing out at the tailgate party in the middle of the day really can be adorable! It looks like little Rose is even dreaming about calling those hogs!
Thanks to her wonderful mama Kelly Scott Unger for this photo.
Fun for the whole family
Nope, I'm not just talking about day drinking on the War Memorial golf course. I'm talking about baggo, game of champions!
Woo Pig Sooie! Make no mistake - these kiddos were SERIOUS about winning!
Need another reason to finally invest in a baggo set? Rather than packing separate toys and games for the kids, just bring along one game that can entertain everyone. Georgia Grace and Phillip, pictured above, of Hot Springs, have clearly been practicing. They'll be the team to beat in the under-ten circuit this year. Thanks to Sarah Longtin for the awesome photo.
Order a Razorback baggo set here.
It's almost jacket weather
I'm not crazy about it paired with white jeans, but this lightweight ivory jacket would look great layered over a simple red tee and paired with dark-wash skinny jeans. And because it's from Ember, you know it's a great price - only $58!
End of Summer Sales!
Although tailgating is a quintessential fall activity, end of summer clearance sales can be great opportunities to stock up on supplies.
Next time you're at Target, Home Depot, Walmart, etc., check out their summer clearance sales - I can almost guarantee you'll find great deals on grills, outdoor folding chairs, solar lanterns, coolers, string lights, outdoor serving platters and pitchers, and more!
Food safety may not be exciting
but when you're planning your next tailgating party, keep these essentials in mind:
Photo credit: click here.
Which Foods are Safe to Serve?
Single-serving, pre-packaged portions are the safest. Consider offering sandwiches, cookies, or other food items in individual, food-grade plastic bags or film wrap. This will minimize the number of people who come in contact with the food.
Dry foods or those high in sugar are almost always safe. Breads, rolls, cakes (without cream filling), fresh fruits and vegetables, cookies and crackers are safe. Use caution when serving cooked or processed foods such as lunch meat, hot dogs, vegetables and salads.
High-protein foods like meat, milk and dishes containing egg are potentially hazardous.
Be cautious with marinades.
Potatoes, rice, custards, puddings, pies, gravies and stuffings should be served with extreme caution. Time and temperature control of these foods is extremely important.
The life of most deli meats and foods is short. Roast beef, chicken breast, and turkey have a shorter refrigerator life than processed meats or cold cuts.
Follow these simple steps to ensure safety:
- Buy reasonable quantities.
- If food won't be served soon, store in a cooler immediately.
When you get home, properly wrap and freeze deli meats that won't be eaten within two to four days. - REMEMBER most food poisoning bacteria can NOT be seen, smelled, or tasted.
- Bacteria multiply fastest between temperatures of 40 and 140; it's what we call the Danger Zone
If in doubt, throw it out! Keep hot foods HOT (above 140° F) and cold foods COLD (40° F or below)
More food safety resources from the Food Safety Project:
- Time Out for Take Out if you use take-out foods for your tailgate party
- Special Care for Special Foods: Ground Beef, Poultry, Hot Dogs, Luncheon Meats, Eggs and Mayonnaise
I'm not usually a fan of rompers, but . . .
 |
| If you're going to wear a romper, at least make it red and white! |
This red and white romper from Ember Boutique in Little Rock seems to have been designed just for Arkansas fans. Rompers can be tricky to pull off, so make sure it fits properly (it really should not be tight anywhere!). But if you've got the figure to rock a romper, it can be a perfect mix of cute and casual, and this one is a great price at only $40.
Sheer Stripes
This lightweight red and white striped hoodie would be the perfect layering piece for early fall games. It's available at Ember in the Heights in LR. I love this shop - nothing over $75, and new clothes every week. Like the Facebook page here.
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Put a hog on it
 |
| Woo Pig Sooie! Little ones will look adorable in this chevron-print Razorback dress from Etsy. |
Etsy seller Monkey Style Boutique is selling this cute baby girl's Razorback dress for $35. The best part? By ordering your cutie this little dress, you'll be supporting an independent business owner based right here in Arkansas!
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