Recently my friend Camille and I were able to meet up in a centrally located town for a girls’ weekend!  We’d been throwing the idea around for months and finally decided to meet in Waco, Texas, for several reasons. First, I would also be able to see my sweet grandmother who is in a nursing home there and that is much easier without the little ones in tow.  Also Camile and I first met in Waco while attending Baylor along with our husbands, so it is a special place to us both for many reasons, it’s our old stomping ground, sic’ em bears and all of that!  We also love the restaurants and shops near the Brazos River and downtown, and it’s not too far from this little guy so I could quickly be back home the next day (yes I was nervous about leaving Henry but they did great).  Another reason… THIS PLACE! 

When I was searching for lodging in good ol’  Waco, I have to admit my expectations were low. Very low.  But when I saw the Livingston, specifically THIS SUITE, I nearly flipped…for several reasons.

First off, within our budget and hello, the decor!  I was also very excited when I noticed on the website that Mary Baskin is the mastermind behind the wonderful design of the rooms at The Livingston.  I recognized her name from the pages of Better Homes & Garden so I knew it would be good.  And notice the Union Jacks and Brit theme..that is so up our alley.  See below.

{Camille & Holly, shopping in London, ca. 2003}

So yes, this mama to an 11 month old was excited to get away for a good visit with my friend…And granted the shopping in Waco isn’t Cath Kidston & VV Rouleaux on Sloane Square where we went nuts years before BUT we had a great time in Waco at Honey’s Home + Style on Austin Ave (which I mentioned last week in this post), Roots, and beyond…

{Photo courtesy of Honey’s Home+Style}

Better than the shopping and cool lodging is just spending time with a friend that loves unconditionally and can be honest about the shape of an eyebrow and more!

{Camille & Holly, Waco, Texas, 2010}

[Before our trip or even booking the Brit-themed room, Camille and I had been exchanging numerous emails about the Helkat pillows on Etsy. After our re-immersion into all things Brit, via Waco, she returned to West Texas and whipped up something very special..can't wait to show you!]

God save the Queen, good friendship & the Baylor Bears!