A Stroll Thru Life

Let's Have A Giveaway

2012-02-25T09:46:00.000-07:00

I know you have seen several giveaways around blogland for SHABBY APPLE, and how much we all love their products, so I was thrilled when they contacted me to host one of their giveaways.

They have so many great styles and products to choose from, and they are offering the winner a $50 gift certificate. On top of that they are also offering a 10% discount to anyone who makes a purchase for the next month. To redeem the 10% discount, just enter the code-astrollthrulife10off.

To enter for a chance to win, just go to SHABBY APPLE and tell me what you like. While you are there be sure to like them on facebook for a second entry. That's it.

The winner will be selected by random number drawing on March 23rd. Good Luck.

New Wardrobe - I'm All Done Now

2012-02-24T13:50:00.000-07:00

With all the spring cleaning that I've been doing, I decided to stop and try to do something about my wardrobe. I needed a few more things to carry me over while I am losing this extra 12 lbs, (it just doesn't seem to be going anywhere. - geezzz). Anyway, I went through the closet and got rid of some things that had seen better days and decided what I needed to carry me through this next spring and summer.

I've been on a roll with buying some play and casual clothes that I showed you here and here. However, after purging things I realized that I really needed a couple of things that would carry me out to dinner and to church. I made a trip to the mall and stopped in at Nordstroms since they were having some drastic sales in the hopes I could find a couple of bargains.

I found this really pretty polka-dot silk blouse. I love polka-dots, so fun. Marked down from $99 to $39.

I had already bought some new black slacks and a new pair of jeans, so some cream lined silk pants that I found on the clearance rack marked down from $149 to $59 were the perfect addition.

I also found this cream pair of slacks. Love the style, so cute on. They were marked down from $129 to $49. These three pieces will be perfect for several years and if I ever lose this weight, I can have them tailored since they are good pieces.

I had to make a stop in Target and I never remember to look at their clothes, however I took a walk through and found some really cute things. Love this knit top, it will be so easy to dress up for a night out, or for church. It was $9 on sale.

I found this draped neck one also, it was only $7 on sale. These are nicer looking knit fabric and if I take them to the cleaners, they will look good for several seasons.

This little peasant blouse will be so fun for summer and casual wear, and when you find something that looks really cute, I usually buy multiple colors if I can.

So, I bought this print one too. How fun are they. They were on sale for $15 each.

Ok, so I am done now. Closet purged and new clothes pressed and in place. I am all set. I love it when I can just look in the closet and immediately see outfits that I know fit and will work for multiple occasions. I don't think you have to have a ton of clothes, just pieces that you like, are comfortable and can mix and match to make several different outfits. I also like to have a couple that can be dressed up if need be for that special occasion.

So have you been Spring cleaning the house and your wardrobe?

Kitchen Accessories

2012-02-23T11:03:00.003-07:00

When you get something new you always have to play, so I made a couple of changes with two of my new treasures.

First I showed you my cow and how well he fits in with my farmer vignette on the island.

Next I showed you this wonderful apothecary jar, I have been looking for a small one that was just right and this is it.

So I changed out some fruit for grapes and added a wine bottle to create a little different vignette with my wire basket.

See how fun it is to fill my little apothecary jar with corks. I love this look and I am definitely a copy cat of dozens of people in blogland.

Save those empty wine bottles and just display them with a really pretty wine stopper.

My friend Karen from Some Days Are Diamonds gave me the corks when I was there last summer. I love to decorate with them. (Can't wait to see her in a couple of weeks, she'll be here and so will Cindy from Applestone Cottage. We have a fabulous lunch planned with several bloggers. Fun, fun, fun.)

Sometimes you don't have to change the whole vignette to get a different look.

Just play and have fun. It doesn't cost a thing to move things around a little and it feels so good. lol

I am linking to the following parties:
Courtney at French Country Cottage for Feathered Nest Friday
Honey at 2805 for Potpourri Friday
Heather and Vanessa at At the Picket Fence for Inspiration Friday
Diann at The Thrifty Groove for Thrifty Things Friday
Debra at Common Ground for Vintage Inspiration Friday
Sherry at The Charm of Home for Home Sweet Home Friday
Alison at Stuff and Nonsense for Friday's Unfolded

Spending the last of my Gift Certificates

2012-02-22T17:00:00.003-07:00

For Christmas I got several gift certificates and I still had one that was burning a hole in my pocket, so last week when my daughter and I did some shopping for the bathroom things, I found a few more treasures too.

I love adding a little black to my decor, and these two pieces will be so fun to play with. I found both of these at Hobby Lobby.

This swan just made me drool. Love the crackled finish. How fun is this going to be to decorate with. this wonderful guy came from Home Goods.

I have a very large apothecary jar, so I wanted a small one and this is just the perfect sized and shape. They always have a great selection at TJMaxx and their prices are fabulous.

A couple more things to add to my wardrobe. I know, more stripes. I just really like them. This style is so flattering, love it. I found both of these at Marshall's.

Nice plain jane white. I needed a new white tee and this one looks amazing on.

I love the crochet and a great neckline also.

Ok, this one doesn't have stripes. Cute sweetheart neckline and some bling. This one came from Ross.

Can you see the shape of the sweetheart v-neckline and see the silver beads. Fun and so cute.

I havn't had time to play with everything, but I did have to put the cow next to my farmer vignette. I think he is the perfect addition.

All 7 items for just over $100. I had fun. I just need some more gift certificates so I can do this all over again. lol Just kidding, this was a real treat, I know that I am totally spoiled.

I am joining the following parties:

Alison at Stuff and Nonsense for Friday's Unfolded
Courtney at French Country Cottage for Feathered Nest Friday
Honey at 2805 for Potpourri Friday
Jane at Finding Fabulous for Frugalicious Friday
Diann at The Thrifty Groove for Thrifty Things Friday

Laundry Room - Wash

2012-02-21T13:10:00.001-07:00

Do you look around one day and all of a sudden you see something that you never saw before and wonder where in the world has your brain been. When we moved in after doing a little mini makeover to the kitchen, I added handles to all the kitchen cabinets and knobs to the bathroom cabinets. I thought I was all done and gave all my extras away. Well 4 yrs. later, I just noticed that the laundry room cabinets don't have any knobs on them. As you can plainly see, I am always totally observant - - -NOT. So on a recent trip to Hobby Lobby I happened to see some knobs in the clearance aisle and it reminded me that I needed some, so I went through their bins and you will never believe what I found.

There are 4 doors on the cabinets above the washer and dryer, so I thought this was perfect. Sometimes you just have to be a little silly and do something totally fun. I was so thrilled that I found the letters to spell "Wash".

The added bonus is they were on clearance for 80 cents each. How could I possibly resist.

My laundry room is just a pass through from the hall to the garage. As you walk in there is an old refrigerator that I love having. Holds some extra freezer things and perfect for all the juices and drinks, plus extra room when we have company and big meals. Next to it is the washer and dry. (I know, they are older too, but they work so beautifully and with just 2 they don't get a huge workout.) The storage above them is fabulous, keeps all those necessary things out of sight.

The other side has room for a small cabinet with two doors and two drawers at the bottom. This holds some of my candlesticks, candles, sewing machine, sewing notions, ribbons and wrapping supplies.

Of course I use every square inch in here to decorate and to also hold some of my "stuff" when I'm not using it in a vignette. My bragging wall with pics of my grands. These are all when they were really little, they are all grown now. See the two football players on the left and the soccer player on the right, that's one of his wedding pics in the center 4-22-11. Time flys.

The top of the fridge holds my Antique Radio Flyer wagon and some of my extra pitchers. I love these two antique scales too.

The top of the cabinets holds two tureens, my mom's ironstone pitcher and my dad's toolbox.

Now look at the cabinet doors with my fabulous find. Don't you just love it. So fun. Under the cabinets is an old Ivory panel off one of their shipping crates.

Cute

Cute - I know, simple things really tickle me.

I have a few of the quilt blocks and needlework pieces that I did many, many years ago. Still think they are fun. Nothing fancy, but it is great to have some decor even in the laundry room.

The top of the cabinet holds a small collection of old irons and some of my dad's old woodworking tools.

They always say everything is all in the details. I am trying to pay attention.

I am joining the following parties.

Kim at Savvy Southern Style for Wow Us Wednesdays
Judy at DIY by Design for the Winter Blues Party
Paula and Patti at Ivy and Elephants for What's It Wednesday

104th Table Top Tuesday

2012-02-20T13:44:00.004-07:00

Welcome to the 104th Table Top Tuesday. This past week we had so many wonderful links, I had such a great time trying to make my way through them all. Here is just a sample of some of the wonderful links.

You aren't going to believe this amazing transformation of this kitchen at Eclectically Vintage. I love it all and especially that fabulous red stove.

I love this fabulous vignette Cindy created on her buffet, look at how she incorporates bits of nature and then some fabulous silver, frames and that mirror is to die for. Be sure to visit Beaux R'eves and you will be drooling tool

Don't you just love that fabulous glass lamp and look how cute those polka dot bunnies are. Rhonda @
Ramblings of a Southern Girl changed a few things up on her entry table. Love it.

Pumpkin Pie Painter created this fabulous piece. You really need to see her tutorial, unreal. Love her kitchen too.

Carlene at Organized Clutter loves to change things up and this corner is just the neatest place to do that. Love her new vignette and her wall collage. Just look at the bowl and crock collection and display. Fabulous.

I love all the wonderful toolboxes I see in blogland, and Audrey @ Elegant Economies has created such a lovely arrangement in hers. Love the flowers and the mix of dishes. Fun, fun, fun and a red toolbox, everyone needs one.

Decorating With a Little Bit uses antique stained glass windows in such creative ways. Love this idea.

Geneva at My Heart's Song received these fabulous restaurant dishes for Valentine's. Don't you love it and love her gorgeous vignette. Cloches, silver and white dishes, is there anything better!!!

I can't wait to see what all you guys are going to inspire us with this week. Thanks so much for stopping by, I always have such a great time.

Also, since the WORD VERIFICATION is now two words and really squiggly ones at that, please turn it off, I have tried several times to comment on many and I just can't seem to read those letters, they are really difficult. I am sure others find it equally as difficult, so if you would like more comments, turn off the WORD VERIFICATION and make everyone happy. Thanks.

More Tweaking and Details, Details

2012-02-19T13:43:00.000-07:00

The other day I showed you the silver tray that I did a copy-cat and put above the stove. You can see that post here. Well, one thing really bothered me, I loved the silver in the kitchen, but my really cute little rooster picture was framed in gold, and it didn't look so good, so I swapped out the frame.

See the gold frame on the rooster pic.

Better don't you think?

They always say everything is all in the details. I am trying to pay attention.

See that "wash" on the counter. I have a fun project for that.

Geeeeezzzzz - I have such a mess

2012-02-18T09:31:00.000-07:00

I have been on a real roll trying to get some Spring Cleaning done, and the Familyroom is my latest project.

The entertainment center has been cleaned and polished from top to bottom.

Blinds and windows cleaned thoroughly, and then I just shampooed the carpet. Boy did it need it, sure wish this was replaced with either tile or wood floors. Well maybe later this year.

Now, where in the world do you put all that furniture while the carpet drys. Thank goodness there is room in the breakfast area. So, the coffee table and 3 large chairs plus a few other things are all stuffed into this one area. I left myself a trail to get to the computer, lol, of course that is a necessity.

What a mess. This will probably take most of the day to dry, so thank goodness I am leaving soon for a birthday party. Staring at this would drive me nuts. So glad this job is done, I think shampooing carpets is a ton of work.

Hope you are having a fun and relaxing day, mine will be when this is all put back together.

Master Bathroom Changes

2012-02-17T08:45:00.031-07:00

Seems that I am on a bathroom roll, lol. I found some really fun bathroom accessories that are so Frenchy and I just fell in love with them, so of course that meant we had to start changing things around again. I just did a little refreshing to the Hall Bathroom, and while I was shopping I found these really cute accessories that I thought would be fabulous for the Master Bathroom.

See, we have some frenchy Pharmacie Apothecaire accessories.

How cute that the glass says "Rinse".

Since the lettering is black, I changed out the towels to some black ones that I already had.

I use this one for my Q-tips.

I thought the use of some crystal went well with these pieces,

This is a fabulous little dish that was give to me by Mary Ellen @ Mary's Meanderings. Love it and the Gardeners Soap.

I filled my cherub urn with some ivy for a bit of color and softness.

Such a fun find.

Oh I so love my new accessories.

Thanks tons for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits.

I am joining the following parties:

Jen at Tatertots and Jello for the Weekend Wrap-up Party
Donna at Funky Junk Interiors for Saturday Nite Special

Stephanie Lynn at Under the Table and Dreaming for the Sunday Showcase Party
Mary at Boogieboard Cottage for Masterpiece Monday
Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday

Hall Bathroom Reveal

2012-02-16T08:10:00.000-07:00

Always love the before, so here is mine. This is what the bathroom looked like before, definitely builder basic bland, Hate the look of that slab mirror. I had already replaced the strip lights above the mirror, and painted the room with a soft camel color, so we had a little bit of a start to go from. The shower curtain is from our previous house. Re-using what I had.

Then I showed you this fabric that I think I will make a new shower curtain out of, but in the meantime, I just refreshed what I already had. Turns out this fabric is a much darker turquoise background that the picture shows, (I ordered it from Fabric.com), so I have to repaint since my current pale camel color doesn't look very good with this fabric. So, I have to think about this one for a while.

In the meantime, working with what I already had going on, seemed like a great option, so I forged ahead.
I found a fabulous large wood framed mirror, with a lovely beveled mirror inside. The frame has such a pretty finish on the wood. Striations of a honey color, darke walnut and a slight striation of gold. Beautiful and so rich looking in person.

Thank goodness the mirror wasn't glued on, just held in place with clips, so it was easy to remove. I had some leftover paint, so touching up the wall was a breeze.

You can see the finish on the mirror better in this pic. I bought a new towel holder and dispenser. I already had the soap dish and tissue holder.

Same monkey print that I had originally in here, but I did remove the corbel and brought in a large vase with twigs and grasses, plus a few feathers.

These two prints were here also, and the towels are some that I had.

Here you can see that I hang the shower curtain and the liner from the ceiling. I think it gives the room more of a dramatic look.

For now this is a great redo for $58. The mirror was $39.95 and the accessories included the dispenser, towel holder and a new toilet brush holder were $18. I found them all at Ross.

If I decide to use the turquoise fabric, then that will create a whole new look again.

Thanks for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits.

I am linking to the following parties:

Cindy at My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday
Alison at Stuff and Nonsense for Friday's Unfolded
Courtney at French Country Cottage for Feathered Nest Friday
Honey at 2805 for Potpourri Friday

Heather and Vanessa at At the Picket Fence for Inspiration Friday
Diann at The Thrifty Groove for Thrifty Things Friday
Debra at Common Ground for Vintage Inspiration Friday
Sherry at The Charm of Home for Home Sweet Home Friday
Jen at Tatertots and Jello for the Weekend Wrap-up Party
Donna at Funky Junk Interiors for Saturday Nite Special

Silver and Being A Copy Cat

2012-02-15T07:25:00.000-07:00

When I saw this kitchen from one of my favorite blogs - Jennifer Rizzo - I just studied and drooled over everything. Love the cabinets redo, wood counters and the wonderful chandy, curtain at the door, ok so I really love it all. Then I honed in on one thing that I could copy. See that fabulous silver tray above the stove. Well you all know that I totally love using my silver, and I have quite a few trays, so I am sure you get the picture.

I have several trays that might work, so I immediately tried them all. I love the look of the large one above, but my space is quite small. I also really liked the handles on the tray above, but the only one I have with handles that fits this space has feet, so that wasn't working very well. After trying 3 different ones, I think this one is the best.

I am using a silver tray in the corner display and this ties it in.

Kind of fun for a change. Now we'll see how long that stays or if I have to clean it every day. lol

What have you tried different lately and what has inspired you?

Master Bedroom Refreshed

2012-02-14T15:15:00.013-07:00

I love it when the sun comes shining through the bedroom window, it just casts such a wonderful glow on the bedroom.

The walls are a soft beige, and the bedding and drapes are also in shades of beige and cocoa brown.

But when the sun comes in through the window, everything takes on such a beautiful golden glow.

Nice that it looks like we had a complete color change and I didn't do a thing. Love that.

This is such a great little sitting area to read and enjoy the sunshine. One of my favorite spots.

I am always amazed at how the sun or the shadows can change the look of a room so dramatically.

Thanks so much for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits.

I am linking to the following parties:

Kim at Savvy Southern Style for Wow Us Wednesdays
Judy at DIY by Design for the Winter Blues Party
Paula and Patti at Ivy and Elephants for What's It Wednesday
Aimee at It's Overflowing for Overflowing With Creativity
Gina at The Shabby Creek Cottage for Transformation Thursdays

Sherry at No Minimalist Here for the Open House Party on Thursdays
Cindy at My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday

Alison at Stuff and Nonsense for Friday's Unfolded
Courtney at French Country Cottage for Feathered Nest Friday
Honey at 2805 for Potpourri Friday

103rd Table Top Tuesday

2012-02-13T13:44:00.000-07:00

Each week we are having more and more of you join TTT and show us all of your beautiful vignettes. We had some really great eye candy again this last week, so I thought I would show you just a few.

Sandy @ Copper-n-Things uses wrapping paper she found at the Dollar Tree to line her china cabinet. You really need to see her display and she just painted this hutch too. Gorgeous.

Lacy @ The Inspired Nest shows us how she uses her silver in her kitchen and she has some of the most beautiful vignettes. Totally love it all. I am slowly collecting enough corks to use in my jar. Love this look.

Suzy @ Worthington Court shows us her friend Angela's laundry room. I want it all. This is totally amazing.

Decorate with a Little Bit shows us a lovely wall area she has created making the most of a small space. Lovely.

Elaine @ Sunny Simple Life created such a beautiful spring tray for her table. This just has sunshine written all over it.

Barb @ Grits and Glamour has been redoing her entire house. She gives us a tiny sneak peek. Love this new dining room vignette.

There were so many more that just made you drool. If you missed any of them, you really should go and visit as many as you can. Now let's see what all we have going on for this week. I am sure you guys will amaze us all again.

Pharmacie Apothecaire

2012-02-12T14:24:00.001-07:00

While I was out shopping for the hall bathroom makeover, I found some fabulous treasures for the master bath. I just fell in love with these Frenchy treasures, so I just had to have them. There is a complete compliment of items, and of course I bought them all.

So now I am working on rearranging all the accessories in both bathrooms. Love the neat frenchyness of these pieces. I will show you when I get it all done.

Old World - Frenchy Accessories

2012-02-11T07:06:00.000-07:00

I've been asked about the easels that I use so often in my vignettes. I have a couple different styles and sizes and they add so much to my displays.

This one is definitely one of my favorites. I have this same one in the large size and the medium size. I am using the medium one here to display my grandson's baby picture. It adds such elegance to the vignette and so much old world/frenchy charm with the scrolls and the added detail on the two floral tips. I found it at Home Goods and I still see them there. They are only $6.99, so that's a ton of drama and ambience for the price.

This is the large one. It holds a larger frame nicely and is taller so it is wonderful to use in the background.

I love finding ornate frames and creating a picture gallery.

You can also use these in a much less formal display. One of my bookcases has room for a couple of pics and I have a cow picture displayed on the medium one in this vignette.

It doesn't have to look formal, it just adds character and a touch of old world charm.

I have another one that is wrought iron. It is large enough for a full size plate. Very informal, but depending on how you use it in a vignette it can work in any setting. I found this one at Ross for around $7. I have also seen them at TJMaxx for reasonable prices and many different styles to choose from.

I think this one works perfect with the silver tray and glass hurricane vignette.

I really like that they are unusual and so versatile. I love to find things that can be used in a number of ways. I have used them to hold books, and even an open cookbook in the kitchen.

Do you use them and do you have any unique way to display your treasures?

My Heart is so Full

2012-02-10T16:06:00.001-07:00

Now I just did a post telling you that we never celebrate Valentines, and we don't. Then the mailman came and brought me this fabulous card. It's from my dear friend Gloria @ Happy To Be. You know how you make a friend in blogland and they become some of the most precious people to you, well Gloria is one of those, She is so loving and so sweet, just made my day. Sure wish we could sit and enjoy a cup of tea together like the picture. That would be an unreal treat.

As I am reading this and getting all mushy inside, DH walks through the door with this beautiful heart and miniature rose bush. He was at the nursery picking up some fertilizer and said he thought I would like this since he knows I love roses and especially the miniature ones that I can keep in a pot.

Can you believe all of this. For someone who doesn't celebrate Valentine's, I think I am doing pretty good. Wow, I am so thrilled with my treasures. How fun is this. Maybe this is a holiday that I need to rethink, so far this is a ton of fun.

I hope you get a ton of surprises too.

Valentine Party with Laurie

2012-02-09T12:29:00.007-07:00

Yeah, it is party time and Laurie is having a super get together. So be sure to hustle on over to

Bargain Hunting and Chatting with Laurie

and join all the fun.

Valentine's is not something we usually celebrate around here. Sometimes we remember to give each other a card, but not always. I never decorate for this holiday, but I wanted to join Laurie since she always throws such a fabulous party, so I did a teeny-tiny little addition to the dining table.

Candy is perfect for Valentine's. (Don't tell anyone, but these are candles I found last year at the DT) I think these look so pretty so I thought I would pull out my silver bon-bon tray and add it to the vignette.

A little coffee and dessert station for DH and I.

Maybe I will surprise him and buy a really great card and get some real candy. I havn't done that in years.

Thanks so much for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits.

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Kitchen Cloches

2012-02-08T08:45:00.001-07:00

I have been playing with my kitchen cloches again. (Can't seem to quit.) I am also trying to think up a lot of new vignettes for the March Spring and Easter Cloche Party. Just click on the button on my sidebar and you will find the details for a whole week of parties by some fabulous ladies with wonderful blogs.

So I don't have any spring cloches today, but I did redo the three that I have in the kitchen.

My kitchen is not only the center of the home, mine is literally in the center of my house. It is completely open to the familyroom and breakfast area and there is a large doorway opening it to the dining and living areas, so you can pretty much see the entire living spaces of the house from the kitchen. I spend a lot of time there and so I tire of all the decor really fast, and I just plain like to play and change things up.

The island is in constant use. I always have a vignette of some kind on this one corner. This is my largest cloche, and I have never used it in the kitchen. I already had this vignette, but I found that the cloche would fit perfectly over the frenchy farmer and his cow friend. My daughter gave me this cloche last year for Christmas. It measures 17" tall x 14" across the bottom. Huge and fabulous.

This is the rooster that always makes me giggle. Doesn't he look like he is so proud throwing his head back and crowing his loudest.

The light was bouncing off the glass so bad, I couldn't get a good shot. Just my fabulous frenchy farmer, a beautiful white cow and a little egg bucket with a tiny plant. I layed a couple of wheat snippets beside the farmer for fun.

As we look at the back counters, the left side holds a grouping of pig items. I am not a pig collector, but they say if you have 3 of anything it is a collection, well this is all of my pigs and there are 3, so maybe it is a collection.

The cloche holds a little DT pig, some corn, moss and a bottle of different kinds of kernels and seeds.

The right side of the stove has a couple of other vignettes that are always fun to play with.

This vignette is really a working one. I use all of this stuff every day. Oils, salt and pepper grinders, can opener and cutting board. Of course I love having them all contained on the Butter Slab. The little rooster picture just adds a little charm to the area.

This corner changes constantly. I am surprised that it has been here for over a week. Wow, good for me. Love this neat basket and love the silver and transferware together.

The left side of the counter is the longest section of counter and one I use a lot. I still like to play with fun vignettes. I did the needlepoint "Give Us This Day" sampler over 35 yrs. ago. The corner has a demi-john, bottle carrier with fun things and the scale with a frenchy pitcher holding some flatware.

I really like this cakestand, the finish matches my rooster one so well and it is so fun to have something pretty when I have some fresh baked goodies to put under it. Right now it has faux fruit and cheese.

That's it, a tour of the kitchen this week. It may all change again by next week.

Thanks so much for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits.

There is so much concern about the GFC going away and like you I really don't want to lose my followers, I love your visits and I want to be able to follow you also. I have several ways on my sidebar for you to follow, so if you havn't clicked to follow me yet, I hope you will. Just pick your favorite on the side bar and let me know so I can follow you also.

I am linking to the following parties:

Jill at French Cupboard for Voila!French Inspiration on Thursdays

Gina at The Shabby Creek Cottage for Transformation Thursdays
Sherry at No Minimalist Here for the Open House Party on Thursdays
Cindy at My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday

Alison at Stuff and Nonsense for Friday's Unfolded
Courtney at French Country Cottage for Feathered Nest Friday
Honey at 2805 for Potpourri Friday

"And They Call It Puppy Love"

2012-02-07T14:42:00.034-07:00

I got a lamp the other day when I was at Home Goods, and you all know that I really don't need another lamp, but this one was so cute.

I placed it on the end table between the two leather chairs in the familyroom. Perfect for this area.

Isn't it just adorable. A precious puppy.

This is next to DH's chair, so it works out perfectly. Love the little books and the tiny dog figurine also.

Such a fun find. I just had to have him, and for $24.99, I thought he was a bargain. It's a really heavy base and with the touch of gold on the body of the dog, it really does look like a cast bronze piece. I like the touch of gold around the wood base also.

I am joining the following parties:
Kim at Savvy Southern Style for Wow Us Wednesdays
Judy at DIY by Design for the Winter Blues Party
Paula and Patti at Ivy and Elephants for What's It Wednesday

102nd Table Top Tuesday-Mother Nature-Cozy Home

2012-02-06T14:42:00.013-07:00

Welcome to the 102nd Table Top Tuesday. Wow, we are really sailing along. Today we are also going to be linking to Barb @ Grits and Glamour for her Wild About Nature Blog Party. I hope you will link your vignettes including nature to her party too, and if you don't know her, be sure to click to follow her blog, you will be amazed at her talent.

I am also linking to Shannon @ Cozy Home Scenes for Your Cozy Home Party. This is a new party she has started, so be sure to check it out.

I have been starring at a ton of topiaries that I keep seeing in blogland and loving the look. So I thought I would find some ivy at the DT and a container of some kind and make one. Then when I was in Ross the other day, this just jumped out and grabbed me. The container had a chip in the wood so it was marked down to $4.99. I used a little stain to cover the chip and you can't even tell. I couldn't buy all the stuff to make one for that price.

For now it is sitting on my desk area. ( I use the buffet in the breakfast area as my desk. Keeps me in the center of things. )

I think it works great in my vignette and perfect for the desk area.

I like how the stem even has a few tiny twigs on it and some ivy in the bottom of the container.

I also found this really cute little Dalmation at GW for $5. Isn't he just adorable.

Look at those puppy eyes.

Some shoe lasts, a globe and my little desk top organizer and I am all set.

Don't you love it when you find a bargain? What have you found lately?

Thanks tons for stopping by. I always look forward to your visits and I can't wait to see all of your beautiful displays and vignettes.

Also, since we are all trying to figure out what is going to happen with our followers when GFC closes, I hope you will click on one of the options on my sidebar and continue TO FOLLOW ME. Please see my post Following Nightmares. It explains some of the different options.

Fabulous Toile Fabric

2012-02-06T08:10:00.020-07:00

Ok, my last post was about the hall bath, and this one is too. I get started on a project and I have a one track mind. So, I just couldn't help myself. I love this toile and I think it will be stunning in the hall bathroom. I bought 31/2 yards to make a shower curtain. I have the current one hanging from the ceiling with a long shower curtain behind it. I think when they hang from the ceiling they are so much more dramatic. It will be pulled to one side with a self tie back, or maybe I will find a fabulous tassel. I found it at Fabric.com.

I showed you what it looks like now with the black shower curtain.

This new fabric has a soft teal/gray green background with a lot of rust, brown and tans in the pattern. Love it, My camel colored walls will look amazing and using some darker accessories in the room will be fabulous. Several suggested that I paint the vanity black. I am giving that some serious thought.

Isn't it fun to make a change in a room and to plan it all out. I also need to find the perfect mirror. This is the light fixture that I've already added, it is oil rubbed bronze with soft beige colored shades. (No the walls are not that dark of a color. I darkened the pic so you could see the light fixture )

I also found these two rugs from Pottery Barn online that look like they might work.

I think the first one is a real possibility. I need to make a visit to Pottery Barn. Isn't it fun to make a mosaic and see them side by side.

I can tell there's some more shopping going to happen. Mirror, accessories, towels, wall decor. All kinds of fun things. I will keep you informed as we go along.

Following NIghtmare - Let's Discuss the Linky Follow

2012-02-05T08:10:00.002-07:00

Image - pros4technology.com

I have every possible way for someone to follow me on my sidebar and I see that most of you do the same. Now I am beginning to think this is all a little ridiculous. Google Friends Connect is suppossed to still work for those that use Blogger for your blog. If you use wordpress, net or com then apparently they are going to drop you off come March 1. There are several options and I would like to review some of those.

1. I still prefer Google Friend Connect if it will work.

2. My second choice would be Networked Blogs. It works for everyone no matter what format you use for your blog. Yes you do have to sign up with FB, but no you don't have to have your blog posts go to your FB page if you don't want them to. The biggest advantage is that you follow just like you do with Google Friend Connect. Just click to follow and there you go, you are all set and all your posts show up in Dashboard.

3. Third would be to follow in a reader. It is really simple, just use your email and it comes to you that way.

4. Now we have the Linky Follow. I love Brent and he is just a doll, so nothing to do with him personally. He has a free site and so he had to make a few concessions. There is no way we could possibly expect him to pay for the bandwith and all the expense it would take to make it totally automatic. What I mean by that is every time we have a new post we have to go to the Linky site and add that post or else you will not see it if that is the way you are following. Now that is not a big deal, but it is one that I think most of us will find just one more step that seems ridiculous. Plus in order to see your post if that is the only way I am following you, I have to sign in to Linky and then see the posts from there. They don't come to my dashboard like the others do on my blog. That is a little disturbing, and I am sure that I will miss a ton that I love to follow.

So, I would love for you all to follow me whatever way you wish, however if at all possible I would love to follow you through Google Friend Connect or through Networked Blogs. Those come straight to my dashboard and are so easy to follow and not miss anything. I love to read your posts and I really don't want to have to go to several different sites to make sure I didn't miss anything.

I hope you will follow me through GFC or Networked blogs also, so you don't loose touch with me.

A Start to the Bathroom Redo

2012-02-04T08:45:00.016-07:00

I am starting to accumulate all the things I will need for the Hall Bathroom redo. A trip to Home Goods and I found a great rug. For now it is in the hall bath, but it will also work in the laundry room. I just need to figure out how I want the bathroom to look. I have a little bit of tropical casual now, but maybe something more elegant would be lovely.

This really is your standard builder basic. I have already replaced the light fixture and the shower curtain is one from our previous house. I may keep it, I am not sure. The slab mirror is definitely going to go and I need all new accessories. The walls are painted a really soft camel color and if I keep the shower curtain I will use some black in the accessories. I think black and camel is a fabulous color scheme and I love the camel color of the walls. I also saw a fabulous camel colored toile that would be stunning for a shower curtain, and I already have a camel strip that would be fabulous also.

I really like this rug that I found at Ross. It is a runner and just the perfect size for the room.

See how perfect the color is with the Travertine tile. I like that it goes from the tub to the door so you have something soft and warm on your feet the entire length of the bathroom. A great rug for $14.99. Looks good with the current decor.

I think I have definitely decided that a round mirror would look the best.

Ok, I need to find the mirror and then some fabulous accessories and then this project can get underway. Oh I just saw a bathroom today that was so elegant and so frenchy, beautiful scroll mirror, gorgeous monogrammed towels, elegant gold and crystal accessories and the most beautiful silk needlepoint rug. Ok, I need to figure out what I really want to do, this is getting hard. I wonder if I can make this plain bathroom look elegant?

Thanks for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits.

There seems to be so much confusion and anxiety about what is going on with GFC. So since I really don't want to lose any of you that follow me or that I follow, please pick one of the ways TO FOLLOW ME. ON MY SIDEBAR and follow along. Thanks.

$20 Worth of Pure Magic

2012-02-03T08:45:00.001-07:00

The guest bathroom is really small and really builder basic. There is no storage in here at all and no room for any except what's under the sink, and it is just a big open mess.

Even I didn't know it was such a disaster until I took a peek, Boy is this called keeping it real or what. I don't think I have even looked under here for months and months. This all got stirred up really bad.

I guess I should use this bathroom once in a while and I would know what a mess it is. Unreal.

After the shock of this, I remembered my son buying a couple of storage drawers for his travel trailer while he was here. I measured and set off to Walmart to see if they still had any. Now when he was here they had them in clear, blue and gray. All they had today was blue. For $9.97 each, even if blue isn't my color scheme, it is perfect storage and room for everything. Pure Magic how it cleaned up such a mess.

Now I have the travel size toothpaste, mouthwash, soaps, new toothbrushes, combs and all the little things that a guest might need in the top drawer on the left. The top drawer on the right holds Q-tips, cotton balls, razors, bandaids and that sort of thing. The other drawers hold different shampoos, conditioners, bath wash, pocket kleenex, toilet paper and some extra wash clothes. (I have a towel bar on the back of the door that holds extra towels) The tall bottles of Alcohol and Hydrogen Peroxide fit right in the middle. Anyway, so much better. Wow I can't believe I let it become such a mess. Poor guests, if they needed anything, it would have been impossible to find. I hope no one ever opened the doors.

Yes, I would have loved to have them either clear or gray plastic, you know how we picky kind are, but I am thrilled with the storage and the organization.

So does your bathroom need a little bit of organizing?

Crystal & Silver - Oh My!!!!!

2012-02-01T08:10:00.003-07:00

You've all seen my china cabinet. Well in all this spring cleaning, I really needed to do something about how messy it was. I just kept putting anything and everything in it and it really had become unreal.

So I took everything out and couldn't even believe that I had so much stuff in there.

No wonder I couldn't find anything. I had it all stuffed in so there so full you couldn't see anything.

Ok, this is much better. A clean start. The glass shelves, doors and the mirrors on the back all got a good cleaning. Nice and sparkly.

Then came the challenge of putting things back. I decided that only silver and crystal was going back in. I will find a home for everything else somewhere different.

The first two shelves. I can actually see what I have and get it out if I want to use it.

The next two shelves. (Did you notice that I managed to stand right in the center so the silver trays would block me in the pics. ) I had to really think thin. lol

The bottom shelf.

I am currently using the coffee and tea service on the DR table and I also have a wine tray set up on the buffet, but I think I have cleared enough that I can still get it all in when I change things up.

Love having it all cleaned out and thinned out. Looks so much better.

I am linking to the following parties:

Jill at French Cupboard for Voila!French Inspiration on Thursdays

Gina at The Shabby Creek Cottage for Transformation Thursdays
Sherry at No Minimalist Here for the Open House Party on Thursdays
Cindy at My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday
Alison at Stuff and Nonsense for Friday's Unfolded
Courtney at French Country Cottage for Feathered Nest Friday
Honey at 2805 for Potpourri Friday

A little Retail Therapy

2012-01-31T14:24:00.007-07:00

Sometimes we just need to look at our wardrobe and update a couple of things. I love to dress up a pair of jeans with a Tee Shirt that has a little bit of glitz to it. However I needed a new tee and also something for just everyday wear. So off to the Mall to take advantage of some of the January clearance sales.

There were a ton of sales going on, however I only found a few things. (Well, I did buy some new lingerie, however I'm not showing that.) This tee is a great navy blue and silver glitz stripe. The glitz doesn't show up in the pic, but it is subtle and perfect.

I love the square neckline also. I think it is very flattering on just about everyone.

This cute little black and white short sleeve cardigan is going to be a great piece all year long. Fun to wear it with or without a tank underneath.

Ok, to be totally honest also, I've gained 12 lbs since our vacation in early October, so with vacation, all the company and Christmas, I ate myself into oblivion. I still want to look good and be comfortable while I loose this weight, so I needed some new pants to tide me over. ( I hate that I had to buy one size larger, however when pants are too tight, I think you look bigger and if they are tight, I am just miserable. So swallow the pride and buy some that fit. A new pair of jeans and a new pair of black slacks.

The jeans had just enough detail on the pocket to be interesting, but not show off my larger than usual behind.

Just for the record, I had a salad for lunch after all this shopping and a glass of iced tea. I am definitely going to loose this weight and fast I hope.

On the way home I stopped by a GW close to the mall, and I was thrilled that I found these 6 silver goblets. They were $2.99 ea. and then 25% off.

DH is taking me to dinner tonight and I think I will wear my jeans and my new Tee. It's always fun to have something new, just makes you feel special.

Thanks for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits.

I am linking to the following parties:

Kim at Savvy Southern Style for Wow Us Wednesdays
Judy at DIY by Design for the Winter Blues Party
Paula and Patti at Ivy and Elephants for What's It Wednesday

Table Top Tuesday # 101 -Coffee - Tea or Wine

2012-01-30T13:10:00.001-07:00

Welcome to the 101st. Table Top Tuesday. We had such a great turnout for the 100th and you all had so many fabulous, gorgeous and creative vignettes. I used the random number thingy (which I can't get to print here) for the gifts. So without further fanfare, here are the winners.!!!

#1. The winner of the 1/2 price pillow or item from Ann's Sutton Place Designs is Linda @ White Weathered Hutch. Please get in touch with Ann and give her your choice.

#2. The winner of the beautiful painting from Paulette @ Summerland Cottage is Jacqualine @ Cabin and Cottage. Please contact Paulette and she will mail the beautiful painting to you right away.

#3. $50.00 Visa Gift Card is Tanya @ Take Six. Email me your address and I will get the gift card off to you right away.

I can't thank you all enough for all the wonderful good wishes and for joining the party. You guys made my day. Thanks tons. Now on to the party for today. I am sure you will amaze me as usual.

Isn't it funny when you start cleaning how you get the urge to switch things up. I had just put a new vignette together on the dining table and then I started trying to clean and organize the china cabinet. All of a sudden I had the urge to use a lot more silver. So part of my previous arrangement got moved to the buffet and a new display wound up on the table. (The china cabinet still isn't done, I'll have to show you that later.)

The candelabra and the champagne bucket were found at GW. I love both of these pieces.

The larger coffee pot was a GW find also, along with the tray. The smaller pot is mine and has a small tray with cream and sugar received as a wedding gift. The cream and sugar I am using here belonged to my MIL. I think you can mix all of your silver and all the patterns.

I thought the buffet needed a little silver too.

I moved the brown transferweare plate and dog to the buffet.

A silver tray holds my silver water pitcher filled with feathers. A beautiful grape carved wine bottle holder holds one of my favorite wines. (Save those empty bottlers, they are wonderful to decorate with. Decorative stoppers are fabulous also. ) A tiny silver bowl holds corks.

A couple of glass hurricanes with candles on a bed of coffee beans and some pearl accents.

I have a mix of gold and silver in this room and I love the look. Very old world. They always mixed their metals.

How about you, do you mix your metals and do you like both gold and silver?

Thanks for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits. Be sure to link up below and be sure to visit as many posts as you can. You will definitely be inspired.

Problems with White Pages & No Comments Tip

2012-01-30T07:41:00.006-07:00

I have had several people tell me they can't see my post or leave a comment because everything turns to a white page. I had the same problem with a lot of blogs, then someone suggested I download Google Chrome and use that for my blogging instead of Internet Explorer. Problem solved. Not only did I not have any more problems with white pages or commenting, but all of the blogs load sooooooooo much faster. It's free, so give it a try. I love that I can visit now so much easier and I can read your blogs and leave a comment..

Be sure to link up this evening for Table Top Tuesday. I look forward to seeing all of your wonderful vignettes. Also, the winners of the 100th Party giveaways will be announced.

Easy Peasy Bacon Quiche

2012-01-29T10:47:00.002-07:00

I like to cook sometimes, and other times I really want something good, special and super quick. Well I have a Quiche recipe that is all of that. Kind of one of those instant dishes.

This is all you need. Super easy and semi-homemade. (Do you ever watch that show?)

Crack 6 eggs into a bowl and whisk well, add 1 cup of milk ( I use 2% - less fat ). Whisk well again, then add 1/2 bottle real bacon bits, 1/2 c. chopped onion (optional) and 1 cup shredded cheese. Whisk this all together really well.

I cheat and use a ready made pie crust that you just unroll into a pie pan.

Pour the mixture into the crust and sprinkle more bacon bits on top. Place in preheated 400 degree oven for 15 minutes, reduce heat to 350 and bake for an additional 25 to 35 minutes. When the top starts to brown and a knife inserted in the center is clean, you are ready.

Doesn't it look good.

Total ingredients for such a great meal. Something we all have in our pantry all the time.

Easy Bacon Quiche

6 eggs - beat well
1 c. milk
1 c. shredded cheese
1/2 c. chopped onion
1/2 bottle real bacon bits + enough to garnish top
1 ready to bake pie crust

Preheat oven to 400. Beat all ingredients together well and pour into pie crust. Bake @ 400 for 15 minutes. Reduce heat to 350 and continue baking for 25 to 35 minutes. Top will brown slightly and knife inserted in center will come out clean. Let stand for 10 minutes. Slice into pie wedges and serve with your favorite side. (I love a side of fruit for breakfast or lunch and a salad for dinner.)

Enjoy. Perfect for anytime you need a meal with little fuss and always sooooooo good.

Some Things Just Don't Work

2012-01-27T09:06:00.000-07:00

The best layed plans of mice and men just don't work sometimes. I had these gorgeous fabrics and wanted to use them all together. Well, that turned out a dismal failure no matter how hard I tried.

This is a look at one senario for how to mix them. Really looks bad in real life.

Another try and it is even worse. I finally figured out what the problem was, and it is the background color of the gorgeous embroidered piece. It turns a sort of dirty green brown next to the others. (How come I couldn't see that before?)

So I just eleminated that one piece of fabric and now have a look that I can live with. The dark pillow and the small rectangular are both old pillows from when we first moved in 5 yrs. ago. Guess my taste hasn't changed all that much. lol However since they match the tableskirt and drapes, they still work beautifully.

I also used this fabric for the jelly roll pillow I gave you the tutorial for here. Love this fabric.

This fabric is reversible, so I made the pillow with the dark side out on one side and the light on the other. Love that I can change it around and get double duty out of it.

Here's the light side.

Now we are back to the dark side. Both are so pretty.

I think for right now I am going to use the dark.

Just a tiny change but one that makes me happy when I see the room.

Ok, now to work on other areas of the house. I need to spruce up the master bedroom, so I am hunting for inspiration. Guess all the decorating and fluffing never ends. Maybe that beige embroidered fabric will work in there? Hummmmmmmmm Got me thinking.

Thanks so much for stopping by. I always look forward to your visits.

Sew-No Sew Jelly Roll Pillow Tutorial

2012-01-26T11:10:00.004-07:00

I love jelly-roll pillows, I think they are so classic and so very french also. If you look at many of the old world rooms you will find this pillow has been around for years. The forms come in several sizes, so choose what fits you furniture and then you can create many for next to nothing and have constant changes.

I want to use the smaller size for this chair, and I have a new fabric to go with my beige and white color scheme that I am currently using. This is the cover I previously had on this form. Cut your fabric twice the length of your form. ( I will show you why later. ) Then cut the fabric so it will go around the pillow and will fit snugly when you finish it.

Ok, my fabric is cut. This is a reversible fabric, but since I am using it on a white chair, I am going to use the beige side as the outside of the pillow.

Turn the right sides together and stitch closed. If you don't sew, then just use the fusable seam tape and close the side all the way down. (Super easy, you don't have to sew to make this pillow.)

Turn it inside out so you have the right side of the fabric showing.

Insert the pillow form making sure you have it in the middle with the same amount of excess on both ends.

Fold half of the excess on the end inside the opening. Make sure it is evenly folded in.

Now, using 2 heavy rubber bands, gather the fabric close to the pillow form and wrap the rubber bands tightly around the end of the form.

See how pretty your little pouf is!!!

Do the other side the same way and then play with your poufs until you are happy with them.

Fits perfectly on the chair. I have a couple of tassels, so I want to add them to the ends.

Just loop them around the ends where the rubber bands are and arrange them so they fan out on the chair.

Perfect and doesn't it look elegant?

Great addition to all the fabrics that I have in the room.

Now to make a pillow for the sofa.

So, let me know, are you going to make one? They are so easy.
I am joining Susan @ Between Naps On The Porch for Met. Monday.

Beige & Cream Living Room on a Budget

2012-01-25T14:42:00.007-07:00

I have tried and tried to get a picture of what my LR really looks like and it is almost impossible. Bright sunshine comes in through the windows and it always changes the color to make it look more yellow than it is. In fact as I have said, there is nothing yellow in this room at all. Beige walls and carpet and the furniture is brown and white. I did some spring cleaning after my company left and finally got a picture that shows what this room really looks like.

I have also been asked many times about the furniture in this room. As I have stated before, almost everything in this room was purchased over several years at thrift and consignment shops. If you look you can find some fabulous pieces and just keep building until you have a room you love. Don't compromise, only buy what you really love, then you will love your entire room.

My sofa is one that I bought from a neighbor that was moving a couple of years ago and really is white. It is a beautiful cut velvet with down filled cushions and oh so comfortable. She was foolishly giving tons of things away and sold me this sofa for $100. She said that moving and storage costs would eat up anything she made from selling her furniture, so knowing that it all had a good home meant more to her. (Lucky for me, I love it.)

The pillows and tablecover are made from fabric that I used when we first moved into the house 5 yrs. ago. It goes perfectly with the fabric on the chair that I found last year at Hotel Liquidators. The chair was in perfect condition and for $79 I think it adds a fabulous touch of elegance to my room. The coffee table was a gift 27 yrs. ago when DH and I got married.

The leather chair I found at a consignment shop about 15 yrs. ago. It had been marked down to $100. The white letter chair was a designer floor sample that I found about 8 yrs. ago, it had been marked down to $150. The little chest between the chairs came from a design showroom at the LA Design Mart in 1969. I was redoing a house and a friend got me a pass. It was one of the most expensive pieces that I bought and is an import from England. I think it was around $350 which seemed like a lot of money (and still is) to me in l969.

The huge mirror over the sofa was a "white elephant" that was heavily discounted because it was so big. It is really quite large in this tiny house, however I bought it for our last home that had two story ceilings and extremely large rooms and it looked kind of small there. It is 5ft. x 8ft. I think it was around $350 -$400. Really inexpensive for something with such a massive carved gold leaf frame that is 8" wide and 4" thick, and a beveled edge thick mirror. (This thing weighs a ton)

I really like my room and the furnishings I have found. It just proves that you can decorate on a really tiny budget if you just look and are patient to build one piece at a time.

I've already changed this vignette. I added a new frame with a pic of my grandson that just got married this past year. His new bride wanted some pics of him when he was small, so I had a copy made for me too.

He's 1 1/2 yrs. old here and just such a sweetie. He could talk up a storm and was so fun. He still is.

My next project is to finally sew some coordinating pillows with these fabulous pieces of fabric that I found at the Discount Fabric Outlet. I love these fabrics and they will definitely add a touch of frenchy elegance to my room. Can't wait to show you when it is all done.

Thanks for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits. I am linking to the following parties:

Jill at French Cupboard for Voila!French Inspiration on Thursdays

Brown & White Transferware

2012-01-24T14:42:00.007-07:00

I love brown and white transferware and most that I see is a light brown color. I found this one plate at a thrift store a while back and it is a really dark brown. I love the look.

Isn't it a beautiful pattern and color. All the identity there is on the back of the plate is "Two's Company". If you know more about the pattern, I would love to know.

When I was doing the spring cleaning in the LR and DR, I decided to use the plate on the DR table in a vignette. I moved the silver champagne bucket floral arrangement from the coffee table and added my little dog figurine. A dark brown table runner finished off the display.

This ties in so well with the beige, brown and white theme I have going on. It looks so quiet and restful to me.

Thanks so much for stopping by. I am having a ball going through the links to the 100th TTT. You guys are amazing. The party is still open if you want to link up.

I am linking to the following parties:

Kim at Savvy Southern Style for Wow Us Wednesdays

Judy at DIY by Design for Winter Blues

Paula and Patti at Ivy and Elephants for What's It Wednesday

100th Table Top Tuesday

2012-01-23T13:10:00.002-07:00

Yip-Skip!!!!! It's our 100th Table Top Tuesday. I am so excited. You have all been so faithful to join up each week and show us all of your wonderful vignettes and displays and consistently provide tons of eye candy and inspiration. I have had the best time seeing what all you are doing every week.

Since I have a very small house and very few tables and surfaces to decorate, you have also patiently seen the same table and counters decorated in different ways every single week. Now to have the patience and fortitude to stop by for 100 weeks to look at the same spaces says volumns for how wonderful you all are.

How many times have you all seen my kitchen counters? Remember all of these and many, many more? I constantly change the island and this corner area. I know you have seen all these same accessories spread all over these spaces dozens of times.

How about the Dining Table and Buffet. I know you've seen those changed quite a few times too.

Of course the coffee table and two end tables in the living room have had their fair share of changes too. Hope you guys aren't sick of them yet!!!

I will stop there, you remember all of these? There are so many more. Yes, I have almost worn those poor tables out changing things.
Now that we've gone down memory lane a little, let's get on with the party.!!! We have Gifts.

Gift #1 is a super generous one from Ann @ Sutton Place Designs. She creates the most fabulous pillows and linens for her Etsy shop. She is generously offering one of her beautiful creations for 1/2 off. Just look at these gorgeous pillows that are part of her collection, all made from lovely vintage linens. There is so much more to see, so be sure to visit her shop, you will definitely find must haves for your decor.

Gift #2 is a beautiful Limited Edition Giclee of an Original Oil Painting of Laguna Beach Shoreline. The painting is 5"x5" and just the perfect size to fit in with any decor. This lovely painting is given by Paulette @ Summerland Cottage.

Gift #3 is a $50 Visa Card.

Now for the rules - - - - Let's keep them simple.

1. Link up to the party for 1 chance.

2. Visit Ann's Etsy Shop and tell me your favorite item if you win.

3. Stop by Paulette's @ Summerland Cottage and thank her for the painting.

4. Follow me with Google Friends Connect or Rss Feed for a 3rd chance.

Be sure to let me know you've done all four. That's it, the winner will be announced next week on Table Top Tuesday.

Thank you all so much for all the fun I've had hosting this party. You are all the best and you make my day every time you link up or stop to say hello. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Table Top Tuesday Highlights & 100th Party Tomorrow

2012-01-22T08:08:00.000-07:00

We had such a fabulous turnout for TTT last week. I saw such wonderful vignettes and displays, you guys are all so talented. It was hard to pick just a few to show you, so you really need to go back and see them all. You will definitely be inspired.

Housepitality Designs created the most beautiful tablescape using Pears as her theme. You really need to see this table. Lovely.

Babs @ Upstairs Downstairs created this lovely and serene vignette using a grouping of varied items she found. I love how you can mix such different things together to creat such a lovely vignette.

The Thoughtful Home is a brand new blog created by a lovely lady named Treva. Be sure to go by and welcome her to blogland and take a look at her beautiful vignette.

Heather @ Our Life In A Click found fabulous treasures while out thrifting. She created several stunning displays that you will drool over.

Stephanie @ Balanced Style redid her bedroom. You have to see all the changes. Such a beautiful room.

Lizabeth @ Infuse With Liz created this wonderful display using a lantern she already had. It is lovely and such a beautiful idea. Liz is also a newby blogger. Be sure to go say hello.

Ceekay @ Thinkin' Of Home put together the most charming winter tablescape. You really need to see all of the detail she added to this tablescape. Gorgeous. Perfect for the snow everyone is having.

Rosemary @ Villabarnes is so clever. She is using an item we all have as the perfect easel. You really do have to go look and see what she's come up with. Such fun.

Now of course you all know that with our 100th Table Top Tuesday coming up tomorrow, there will be gifts a plenty. So make sure that you put together a beautiful vignette and let's party!!!!!

Can't wait to see you all there.

Let's Party, Party, Party

2012-01-19T15:30:00.001-07:00

I know we all love a good party, and my very special friend Barb @ Grits and Glamour is hosting a wonderful Egg-xellent Spring Party. I was thrilled when she invited me to join her and two other lovely ladies to participate in the festivities. This is going to be tons of fun.

It kicks off on March 13th, with

Marty at A Stroll Thru Life.

Marty will host a

"Cloche Party."

Next, is

Shirley with Housepitality Designs.

On March 16th, she will host a

"Tablescape Party."

On March 20th,

Barb @ Grits and Glamour

will host a

"Mantlescape Party."

And finally, on March 23rd,

Michael at Designs by Gollum

will host a special edition

"Spring Foodie Friday."

Please join us as we welcome in Spring and Easter

to what I promise will be an

Egg-straordinary Fun Event!

I've placed a button on my sidebar, so please add it to your blog and spread the word. This should be tons of fun. I can't wait to see you all there.

Roos and Black and White Transferware

2012-01-18T14:42:00.010-07:00

I love the look of anything black and white, it just seems to jump out at me every time I see it. I finally couldn't stand it and just had to tear the kitchen apart and really clean. You know how you just clean through the middle when you have company, well, I've done a lot of that this last month, but I have so enjoyed my son and grandson. I am going to try really hard not to cry when they go home Thursday.

The kitchen got a really good scrubbing, and it looks soooooooo good. While I was at it I decided to use the frenchy basket and create a new vignette in the corner.

Roosters to go with my rooster picture. (Can you have too many roosters?)

I love this rooster and the little hen, perfect together. Isn't it amazing how sometimes you find just the right piece to compliment each other. Of course I think almost every vignette needs wheat. ( I have no idea why I have such an obcession with it.)

A black and white check tea towell is perfect with the black and white Haystack transferware. I found a whole bag of faux veggies at GW, so I added those. See the figs and the little cherry tomatoes.

A tiny plant in my little french pitcher sitting on the scale just finishes it all off.

It is always such a good feeling to have the kitchen clean. Now I really need to clean the rest of the house.

I have been trying to make the rounds to all the TTT links. I am having such a hard time with way too many that just turn to blank white pages and I can't see your post at all. I have been told it has something to do with the New Interface. Sorry if I miss yours, I tried, really I did.

I am linking to the following parties:

Gina at The Shabby Creek Cottage for Transformation Thursdays
Sherry at No Minimalist Here for the Open House Party on Thursdays
Cindy at My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday
Courtney at French Country Cottagefor Feathered Nest Friday
Honey at 2805 for Potpourri Friday
Heather and Vanessa at At the Picket Fence for Inspiration Friday
Diann at The Thrifty Groove for Thrifty Things Friday
Debra at Common Ground for Vintage Inspiration Friday
Sherry at The Charm of Home for Home Sweet Home Friday
Rachelle at Fingerprints on the Fridge for Feature Yourself Friday
Jen at Tatertots and Jello for the Weekend Wrap-up Party
Donna at Funky Junk Interiors for Saturday Nite Special

Breakfast Table Centerpiece

2012-01-17T14:42:00.004-07:00

When it's the winter months and every day seems to call for comfort food, I love having a tablecloth on the table all the time. It just seems to invite you to sit down and eat. However, I don't want a centerpiece to block the view so we can easily visit.

This little rooster planter is just the right size for our breakfast table. Big enough to have some inpact and yet small enough to allow for ample placesettings and food at meal time.

I love the black and white transferware plates on the wall, so I thought I would tie the arrangement in with some black and white toile ribbon.

Ivy, a candle and of course some feathers. (Yes, I am still having fun with them.)

I also added a small wood fiber flower to add even more nature.

Nice to light the candle and enjoy a quiet meal with the hubs. Makes the most simple fare seem grand.

I am sorry I am slow making the rounds for TTT this week. My son and grandson will be heading home on Thurs. morning, so I am soaking up every minute with them that I possibly can. I know you all understand.
I am linking to the following parties:

Kim at Savvy Southern Style for Wow Us Wednesdays
Judy at DIY by Design for Winter Blues
Paula and Patti at Ivy and Elephants for What's It Wednesday

Thanks so much for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits.

99th Table Top Tuesday

2012-01-16T13:44:00.011-07:00

I can hardly believe that our 100th Table Top Tuesday is coming up. Next week on Jan. 24th will be the big day and I think we need to have a huge party with celebrations and gifts.

Gift #1 is a super generous one from Ann @ Sutton Place Designs. She creates the most fabulous pillows and linens for her Etsy shop. She is generously offering one of her beautiful creations for 1/2 off. Just look at these gorgeous pillows that are part of her collection, all made from lovely vintage linens. There is so much more to see, so be sure to visit her shop, you will definitely find must haves for your decor.

Gift #3 is a $50 Visa Gift Card.

So, get all of your vignettes together and let's have the best party ever.

Now for some wonderful inspiration from last week.

The French Hutch had the most wonderful pictures of her Christmas decor. I especially loved this pic of her kitchen. Love those french doors and the fabulous sheers on the bottom half of the glass. Everything about her decor is pure eye candy.

Beaux R'eves does the most wonderful tutorial on how to make this gorgeous floral and fruit arrangement. Great way to show what to do when "Life Gives You Lemons".

Rita @ May Days found this fabulous antique table. Love it and how beautiful it looks in her home.

Lilies for Kate refinished a couple of jars for this vignette and I totally love the tulips in her champagne bucket. Stunning.

Thanks so much for stopping by, and I can't wait to see what all you have to inspire us with this week.

Still Pulling The Familyroom Together

2012-01-15T08:50:00.001-07:00

I am still trying to put something on all the empty tables in the familyroom. So again I grabbed the first things that were on the decor-stash shelves.

This little dog is such a cutie, that he just had to play somewhere.

Perfect on this small end table on the side of the sofa. An urn with some ivy and that's all that's needed to let him have star billing.

This little table between the two leather chairs is really small, so everything has to be small. The clock is a wonderful keepsake, so it always stays.

The tiny books and a little dog figurine continue the dog theme showcased on the previous end table that sits on the other side of the leather chair.

Now the tables all have something on them. It makes the room look so much warmer and cozy.

That's it. Nothing really spectacular, but at least the tables aren't empty.

How to go back to the Old Interface

2012-01-14T09:05:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of you not very happy with the "updated Blogger interface" and really want to go back to the old, however that is seems hard to do.

Not really, on the new interface in the upper right hand corner you will see a box with "English" or whatever language you use in it. Next to it you will see a symbol that looks like a gear. Click on the gear and a menu will pop down. You will see "Old Blogger Interface". Just click on that and you are back to the old.

Hope this helps. I have read how frustrated many of you are with the new.

Hugs, Marty

Wow, Getting It Together Slowly

2012-01-13T08:50:00.001-07:00

I am still enjoying company after the Christmas Holidays, my son and grandson have been here on an extended visit while he does some work for a client. You can't imagine how much fun I have been having, and getting the house back together is definitely on the back burner. Today as I dusted I thought I really needed to put somethng on the end table by my chair. Now if you know me you know that nothing but the lamp for a couple of weeks is definitely not like me.

A quick trip to the shelves where everything is stashed when not in use and these are the first things I saw, so that's exactly what I am using.

An antique candy scale, fruit, rooster bucket and plant plus a pair of children's shoe lasts.

A totally odd combination, however it works for me. Seems like anything vintage goes together.

So, until I can really clean and create after my company leaves, at least the table isn't bare.

My son is almost finished with his work, and they are planning on leaving for home in Oregon next Wednesday, so I am going to spend as much time as I can with them this week. I will check in when I get a chance.

A New Designer In The Making

2012-01-12T10:48:00.001-07:00

A friend was visiting with her granddaughter and while they were here, the little girl decided she wanted to decorate. She saw my french wire shopping basket that I had started playing with and asked if she could finish the display. Of course she could and what a great job she did.

I had already pulled out a bag of faux fruit, bread and a bottle of wine, she asked for some cloth, so I gave her a couple of tea towels. For a 10 year old little girl, she shows that she is already a fabulous designer. Thanks Cindy, I had fun watching you create your design, and I so enjoyed your visit.

She wanted to know if it was good enough to put on my blog. Of course it is.

I think we definitely have a world class designer in the making.

Thanks so much for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits.

A Soak in the Tub Changes Everything

2012-01-11T11:26:00.006-07:00

Super Important Message!!! Since Google is going to discontinue Google Friends Connect in March, I have added the NETWORKED BLOGS Button to my sidebar. I would so love to still have all of you as followers, so I hope you will click on the Networked Blog button to follow. Thanks so much. I will look for the networked blog button on your sidebar also so I can continue to follow you.

Sometimes we just need a little quiet time and a nice hot bubble bath. I seem to be one of those that can't turn the brain off, so while I was soaking all I could think about was changing the vignette on the bathroom vanity counter. So, after a nice soak, I started looking for things to dress up the bathroom a little.
Bathrooms are so hard to photograph, and mine really isn't very big. This is the view you see as you enter.

A smallish vanity with double sinks, so the only area I can decorate is the center section.

Yes, I know, I am moving those pictures all over the house. These were in the livingroom previously, but since I put new ones there, these came in here. A little frenchy rooster cache pot floral arrangement, candle and clock. Nice and simple.

The colors and the arrangement go well with the rest of the decor.

As you can see, I am still on the kick of adding feathers and pods to floral arrangements. I love the combination.

Just a really small change, but something fun for me to look at for a change as I get dressed and do my makeup.

Please be sure to click the Networked Blog button to follow, or subscribe in a reader to continue to follow.

Take Six left me a message saying that she believes it is not going to affect bloggers. She interprets their message to say all non bloggers. It does in fact say all non bloggers, so hopefull we can all still follow each other with our usual Friends Connect. Let me know what you all think. I am totally confused. This is the link, so read it and let me know what you think.

http://googleblog.blogspot.com/2011/11/more-spring-cleaning-out-of-season.html

Thanks for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits.

98th Table Top Tuesday

2012-01-09T14:15:00.013-07:00

Welcome to the 98th Table Top Tuesday. Can you believe that we are almost at the 100 th mark. I have some things up my sleeve for this big event including some giveaways and highlights. So be sure to get your vignettes and displays all ready so you can join in the fun.

Today I want to highlight some of the wonderful displays that were in last weeks party. You guys are so creative, there was so much eye candy to see. Some are New Bloggers that I hope you will visit and welcome to blogland. Also, if you are a newby blogger, please go to your comments settings and turn off "word verication". It really isn't necessary and I am sure you will receive a lot more comments.

I love this antique paper cutter used as a tray. Such a clever idea, be sure to check out

Eclectically Vintage for more fabulous ideas.

Love this tablescape by The Best Moments. Using clock napkin rings is just the cutest. and her china and decor is so stunning.

Daffodil Hill shared this lovely scene after all the Christmas clutter was put away. Looks so fresh and springy.

Opulent Cottage took us on a tour of projects in 2011 and this is one that took my breath away when I first saw it. Love the use of the plate rack and the silver in the bathroom. So clever. I am still going to copy cat this when I redo my hall bath.

Plum Perfect created the most beautiful display using silver, greens and beautiful ribbons.

There were so many beautiful displays and vignettes, it was impossible to show them all, so you really need to go back and visit as many as you can. This is just a tiny sample of all the loveliness that everyone had to share.

So, now let's see what all you guys have up your sleeve this week. Don't forget the 100th Table Top Tuesday is just 2 weeks away. We need to clebrate, so get your posts ready for a party with tons of fun and gifts.

Projects on the To-Do List for the New Year

2012-01-08T10:30:00.000-07:00

Do you have a to-do list for the new year? I have a couple of things that I really want to get done this year. Some I may have to save up for, others just find the time to get it done.

#1 on my wish and project list is to replace the carpet in the living and familyrooms. I am drooling over this.

Bellawood Maple Hardwood Floors. Photo courtesy of Lumber Liquidators.com. Now this is a save up for project, but definitely on the wish list for this year.

#2 Redo the Hall Bathroom. I have a standard builder grade nothing special bland bathroom. Vanity, cultured marble top and sink, plain faucet and the standard square slab mirror. I am dreaming of new paint, fixtures, vanity mirror and I totally love this wall college. This picture I borrowed from the header of The Shabby Chick. If you aren't familiar with her blog, be sure to visit, you will love her style.

#3 is to redo the Guest Bedroom. This has been on the to-do list for over a year, time to get it done. I am going to do a Hunt Theme. I already have the painting, riding hat and boots, and the paisley fabric bedspread. I just need the houndstooth fabric for some accents and a drapery fabric. Mainly I need to redo the floors, so that has been holding up the whole project. Can't decide if I want to replace the carpet or put in hardwood floors.

#4. I am going to finish making my new pillow covers for the livingroom using the lovely beige and cream fabrics that I have, then I am adding this fabulous Mink throw to the mix.

www.softsurroundings.com

So what is on your to-do or wish list for this coming year. Are there some big projects or just a few smaller ones. I would love to know.

Living Room Redo Started

2012-01-06T13:15:00.005-07:00

Since I love yellow, gold, peach and orange colors, I am always thrilled that my home takes on a soft yellow glow, however that is not at all what the real colors are. My walls, carpet and drapes are all shades of beige. Not an ounce of yellow anywhere.

Here you can see a little bit of the wall color and how it is really just beige.

This pillow made from remnants of the drapery fabric also show how beige everything is.

If I lay this fur throw on the floor, it is exactly the same color as the carpet.

So, even though this looks sort of yellow again, I am really enjoying all of the beige and white. Such a soft color scheme and so fun for a change.

I still havn't made my new pillows yet, but these are a couple that I have that match the tableskirt and my ottoman that I made when we first moved in.

The cream pillows are actually ones that came with my bedroom duvet set, they had been packed away since I havn't ever used them. They work great here.

The little crochet table topper adds a touch of elegance to the table. It's one I found at Big Lots for $4. How fun.

A picture, plate and the floral arrangement that I showed you finishes off the table.

I really like this fabric with the pretty medallions on it. Seems to go with everything I have and the colors are perfect with my frenchy side chair.

I really like the champagne bucket feather arrangement with the soft beige too. I see gold and silver all over in the magazines, so I am experimenting with mixing my metals.

I still have the pleasure of my son and grandson visiting, so it will be a while before I can sew. However this gives me a taste of a beige and white color scheme. Great change. Kind of a non color, but oh so clam and soothing. So when I get these new fabrics sewn and added to the mix, I think it will look super.

Thanks so much for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits.

I am joining the following parties:

Mary at Boogieboard Cottage for Masterpiece Monday
Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday
Kim at Savvy Southern Style for Wow Us Wednesdays
Judy at DIY by Design for Winter Blues
Paula and Patti at Ivy and Elephants for What's It Wednesday
Gina at The Shabby Creek Cottage for Transformation Thursdays
Sherry at No Minimalist Here for the Open House Party on Thursdays
Cindy at My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday
Courtney at French Country Cottagefor Feathered Nest Friday
Honey at 2805 for Potpourri Friday
Heather and Vanessa at At the Picket Fence for Inspiration Friday
Diann at The Thrifty Groove for Thrifty Things Friday
Debra at Common Ground for Vintage Inspiration Friday
Sherry at The Charm of Home for Home Sweet Home Friday
Rachelle at Fingerprints on the Fridge for Feature Yourself Friday
Jen at Tatertots and Jello for the Weekend Wrap-up Party
Donna at Funky Junk Interiors for Saturday Nite Special

Toile, Checks and French Men

2012-01-05T13:30:00.004-07:00

Now that sounds yummy doesn't it. There is something about toile and checks that I just love and french men just always look sooooo handsome.

Ok, so it's just toile and check ribbon and my frenchman is a figurine, but they are still fun to play with.

A simple vignette for the kitchen island.

Just playing and having a ton of fun.

Also just a reminder that I would love to start the New Year off with your ad on my sidebar. If you are interested, please see my Advertising page.
I am linking to the following parties:

Jen at Tatertots and Jello for the Weekend Wrap-up Party
Donna at Funky Junk Interiors for Saturday Nite Special

Silver & Feathers

2012-01-04T14:15:00.007-07:00

I think a champagne bucket is just about one of the most versatile pieces there is. You can fill it with a beautiful bottle of champagne or wine, maybe a fabulous bouquet of flowers, a heaping mound of fruit with grapes hanging over the edge and any number of other things you can dream up.

Since I am on a feather kick, I thought I would make an arrangement in mine for the coffee table.

A few pods and pearls too, I just love the combination.

The white oystrich feathers are so pretty mixed in with the pheasant feathers.

A few silver candlesticks and coasters finish things off.

(Yes, that's still a few gifts that you see in the background that havn't been delivered yet. We are getting together next week.)

So how about you, are you mixing metals and using all that silver?

I am joining the following parties:

Gina at The Shabby Creek Cottage for Transformation Thursdays
Sherry at No Minimalist Here for the Open House Party on Thursdays
Cindy at My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday
Courtney at French Country Cottagefor Feathered Nest Friday
Honey at 2805 for Potpourri Friday
Heather and Vanessa at At the Picket Fence for Inspiration Friday
Diann at The Thrifty Groove for Thrifty Things Friday
Debra at Common Ground for Vintage Inspiration Friday
Sherry at The Charm of Home for Home Sweet Home Friday
Rachelle at Fingerprints on the Fridge for Feature Yourself Friday
Jen at Tatertots and Jello for the Weekend Wrap-up Party
Donna at Funky Junk Interiors for Saturday Nite Special

Feathers, Pearls and Pods

2012-01-03T14:05:00.010-07:00

I am thinking about my new color scheme of soft tans and creams that I am putting together, and then my new fascination with feathers of all kinds, so my brain is on overload working with some new floral arrangements.

When I started playing, I just loved the mix of feathers, pearls and pods.

Aren't pods of all kinds so interesting, and pearl picks are so fun to use.

Throw in one beautiful hydrangea blossom - - - -

and you have a fun mix of texture and color.

This is another feather arrangement that I am working on. I will show you later.

Thanks so much for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits.

I am joining the following parties.

Kim at Savvy Southern Style for Wow Us Wednesdays
Judy at DIY by Design for Fall into Fall
Paula and Patti at Ivy and Elephants for What's It Wednesday
Gina at The Shabby Creek Cottage for Transformation Thursdays
Sherry at No Minimalist Here for the Open House Party on Thursdays
Cindy at My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday
Courtney at French Country Cottage for Feathered Nest Friday
Honey at 2805 for Potpourri Friday
Heather and Vanessa at At the Picket Fence for Inspiration Friday
Diann at The Thrifty Groove for Thrifty Things Friday
Debra at Common Ground for Vintage Inspiration Friday
Sherry at The Charm of Home for Home Sweet Home Friday
Rachelle at Fingerprints on the Fridge for Feature Yourself Friday
Jen at Tatertots and Jello for the Weekend Wrap-up Party
Donna at Funky Junk Interiors for Saturday Nite Special

97th Table Top Tuesday

2012-01-02T13:30:00.012-07:00

The tree and all the Christmas decor is down, packed away and up in the attic. Now we are into a brand new year with tons of possibilities for new everything. Every day the Lord gives us a new day to start afresh, and the New Year always reminds me of that Blessing. I hope your New Year is full of wonderful new starts and everything is fresh.

It's so fun to see how different the house looks and feels when all the Christmas decor is gone, kind of empty, but oh so calm and peaceful. I love trying to fix those first few tablescapes. This is the first one this year. Things that were already here, just moved around to different spots.

I am still enjoying my family photos so much, so of course a couple stayed.

This urn is one of my favorites and I really enjoy the soft colors of the floral arrangement. I also love the two marble orbs, the color and texture is so pretty when the light hits them.

I have really been intrigued by all the feathers I see in all kinds of arrangements. I love the big frilly one on the right. I just got a bunch of feathers in the mail from a floral supply, so you will probably see feathers all over the place.

I am sure you are enjoying putting your house back together after the Holidays too. I can't wait to see what all you've created.

New Looks for the New Year

2012-01-01T14:28:00.001-07:00

Happy New Year Everyone!!!! I hope your new year was filled with fun, love and hope for the best year ever. I finally got all the Christmas boxes put away in the attic, so it's time to start re-creating all of my vignettes and enjoying changing things around.

This corner of the kitchen was the first place to get a couple of changes.

My cow becomes the star under the cloche.

I paired him with some cheese and fruit. I think he is just so fun.

Eggs and chickens seem to form the rest of the display.

The roo and hen always add color to any vignette. Seems like I have a farm yard collection going on.

Cows, Roosters, Eggs and Wheat. Definitely have a farm in this corner. he-he

Now to get the rest of the house put back together, then I can really play. It's always so energizing to start the new year with all of the displays looking new.

Thanks for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits.

I am practicing Praising The Lord for All Things

2011-12-30T13:30:00.002-07:00

I have been known to be a neat freak from time to time, so I am sure that is why the Lord puts a LITTLE chaos in my life every once in a while. I have a house full of company still and while I am loving every minute of it, I just had to laugh at what my world looks like. I always show you all the pretty pictures, but let's end the year with what it really looks like today.

Everything but the tree is packed away and ready to go to the attic, and of course, this is when DH says I have an erand to run, I'll be back in a couple of hours. Oh well, there is a path to open the front door. lol

My grandson asked if he could set up his computer, of course I said yes, I just forgot how they spread out and make a mess. Gotta love it. Reminds me when I was raising my boys.

The guest room is full, so the grandson put his suitcase and clothes here. Guitars, clothes, presents and who knows what all.

I think the Lord has worked wonders in me, there was a time when this would have definitely driven me up the wall to the point of tears. Now I just thank Him for my family and Praise Him for the mess.
I can clean house when they have gone home and then I will miss them sooooooooooo much, besides I do have a clean familyroom. (Thank you Lord.)

As the year ends, I am trying to be Thankful for all the messes in my life this past year, and to Praise and Thank Him for all the wonderful Blessings that I received.

I count you all as a huge Blessing and I so appreciate your friendship. I pray your New Year will be filled with Blessings to many to count, Love, Laughter and Health.

A New Look for the New Year

2011-12-29T13:23:00.001-07:00

I am constantly changing the pillows and accessories in my living room and it really does change the look of the room. It's always fun to look back and see what all was going on in 2011.

One of the first changes last spring was to make some blue and yellow pillows, and use some of the blue and white decor that I had found at GW.

Summer brought some totally different colors. I had a new sofa and some orange and green pillows for a vibrant summery color scheme.

Fall arrived with a few more changes. This time I added some brown crewel fabric to the orange mix.

Winter came with the revival of some old pillows in a dark peach, taupe and chocolate.

I always start to long for a clutter free and calm space when Christmas is over. So my mind is spinning around looking for a new color scheme for the new year. I love this piece of fabric, the pattern and color is wonderful and since it is reversible, the possibilities are endless.

I dug around through my stash and found a couple of other fabrics that will coordinate really well with it. I love this heavy embroidered piece.

A simple stripe always works with multiple patterns.

I found this lovely crocheted table topper, maybe layered over a simple cream cloth.

This is a good start, now I just need to find some trims and possibly another fabric and I will have a totally new room for the new year.

How about you, are you ready for something totally different for the new year?

Just Think of all the Possibilities

2011-12-28T15:19:00.002-07:00

I love it when I get really great things to play with and to decorate with. That is definitely my favorite kind of gift. My daughter knows me all too well. She gave me the fabulous flavored olive oils and had them all displayed so beautifully in this wonderful wire basket. Of course I tore it all apart so I could see it all and didn't get a pic., but take my word for it, it was really pretty.

Can't you just imagine how many wonderful displays I can make in this great basket.

I love the size and the handle is just perfect.

She had this all filled with the most wonderful oils, chocolate truffle candies and these wonderful tea towels. Don't you just love them.

Now I would love to live her and have the lifestyle that goes with it. lol Well I guess we all would.

I am linking to the following parties:

Open House Thursday @ No Minimalist Here

Feathered Nest Friday @ French Country Cottage

Home Sweet Home Friday @ The Charm Of Home

Vintage Inspiration Friday @ Common Ground

Flaunt It Friday @ Chic On A Shoestring Decorating

Inspiration Friday @ At The Picket Fence

Potpourri Friday@ 2805

Thanks so much for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits.

Most Popular Posts of 2011

2011-12-28T05:00:00.003-07:00

Seems like I have been super busy this year, but some of my favorite projects are really sort of small. I love to find great frames and decor items at flea markets or the GW and then transform them with a little bit of stain, paint and buffing. I showed you several items that I transformed with just the use of some stain and how wonderful it works on ceramics, metal, plastic and wood.

This is a frame I found for $1 that was way too shiny gold. This is just one example of how a little stain can transform anything.

A little minway walnut stain and then a couple of coats of clear and it looks fabulous. Throughout the year I showed the same technique on a lot of ceramic pieces as well as some plastic and wood ones.

I took a very plain tray, a little paint and some decopage and totally transformed it into a chic accessory.

Gold paint with a little stain for aging.

Then decopage a great graphic into the center and you have a stunning piece.

The one change that I have enjoyed the most is redoing the family room/breakfast room drapes. This is the before.

I added a contrasting fabric and trim to the top, hung them from rings and it totally transformed the rooms. Such a simple change to update a room and give it a designer look.

You have all inspired me with so many fabulous and creative ideas this past year. I can't wait to see more in the new year.

I am linking to Southern Hospitality for Top Project of 2011

Gourmet Gifts for my Kitchen

2011-12-27T14:31:00.000-07:00

I love to cook with seasoned oils and I got some fabulous oils from my daughter.

Garlic, Basil and Tuscan Herb. I can't wait to give them all a try.

Of course they immediately found a place on my little tray by the stove.

I love the pour stopper that came with it too. I need to get two more so I have one for each oil

Fits perfectly with my regular olive oil and the salt and pepper grinders. I also received a new can opener too. Yip-skip, now I am all set. No excuse not to cook up a storm.

I am linking to Wow Us Wednesday @ Savvy Southern Style

What's It Wednesday @ Ivy & Elephants

Fall into Fall @ DIY by Design

Can't wait to see what all Santa brought you.