Furnishing Interior Design

Have a Safe and Spooky Weekend!

<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmekqEgFcrFhvuDc9YCCq-WhyphenhyphenaOzESOmXBa7iRYEzHiQ1jK_o8KrasbRU_YpWbckMEMnnRuDBiwLnUJdQRip-1gxkn3_4rqIEifnvi08hzGEDuGfkOWLxzvOzQdjW_W2MqYr-rr_o8bmU/s640/blogger-image--50566959.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmekqEgFcrFhvuDc9YCCq-WhyphenhyphenaOzESOmXBa7iRYEzHiQ1jK_o8KrasbRU_YpWbckMEMnnRuDBiwLnUJdQRip-1gxkn3_4rqIEifnvi08hzGEDuGfkOWLxzvOzQdjW_W2MqYr-rr_o8bmU/s640/blogger-image--50566959.jpg"></a></div><br></div><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: left;">Happy Halloween (Lord, please let this day be over soon).  One of my children got into the Halloween candy and if we make it through this day without a serious injury, I will be relieved.  Anybody remember <a href="https://screen.yahoo.com/phillip-hyper-hypo-000000418.html">Phillip the Hyper Hypo skit from SNL</a>?  That's my child right now.  But really, nothing is cuter than the Littles all dressed up, running from house to house to get candy like it's their job.  Anyone have any awesome costumes this year?! My little niece is going as a white witch and dare I say <a href="http://instagram.com/p/uwVUndn8Pk/?modal=true">she looks incredibly chic</a>.  Edward is either going to be a lion or a monster and the baby is probably just going to be a pumpkin instead of the adorable abominable snow monster that he has clearly vetoed.  Here's to a safe evening for everyone! TGIF! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">The Huffington Post named <a href="http://kcur.org/post/huffington-post-names-kansas-city-coolest-city-america">Kansas City the Coolest City in America</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Tomorrow is Nov. 1 a.k.a. the first day of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/dinovember">DINOVEMBER</a></div><div style="text-align: center;">(I had no idea the couple behind this fun bit of magic is from Kansas City!) </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://hookedonhouses.net/2014/10/30/buy-the-most-haunted-house-in-mississippi-if-you-dare/">The Most Haunted House in Mississippi</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>National Geographic Magazine</i> once called it a "Time Capsule of the South" </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Just the most <a href="http://www.stylemepretty.com/living/2014/10/25/candy-land-birthday-by-project-birthday/">awesome birthday party ever</a> for so many reasons #joychangeslives</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.people.com/article/man-dines-with-photo-of-late-wife?xid=rss-topheadlines">This is love</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">I have a love/hate with turtlenecks, but <a href="http://fashionista.com/2014/10/jcrew-striped-turtleneck">I'll give this one a try perhaps</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">These <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/208008536/gobble-gobble-thanksgiving-styrofoam-cup?ref=shop_home_active_18">Thanksgiving cups</a> make me LOL </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Going to try <a href="http://www.seriouseats.com/2014/10/how-to-make-creamy-roasted-broccoli-soup.html">this creamy broccoli soup</a> too </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://joannagoddard.blogspot.com/2014/10/motherhood-monday-home-as-haven.html">Home as a Haven</a> - I love this </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.littlebeanblog.com/2014/10/moxie-harlow.html">This would be lovely place for me to hide</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">I am so excited to see <a href="http://blog.thepinkpagoda.us/2014/10/2014-fall-one-room-challenge-week-five.html">this custom pagoda lantern</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">The lovely <a href="http://www.serenaandlily.com/Search?search=kerry%20steele&source=pjn&subid=73861">Kerry Steele for Serena & Lily</a> - #thingsIwantformyhouse</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">A gorgeous <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/ginghamhall/blue-and-white/">Blue & White Pinterest board</a> from my Pinterest Soulmate </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=41722&vid=3&pid=147957002">These Old Navy pants are soo comfortable</a> & kind of stylish for running errands and chasing kids</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Have a Spooky Weekend!!! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="scared animated GIF " class="a-gif" data-bitly_gif_url="http://gph.is/19WCS86" data-gif_id="WqWwgNi4uPpfO" data-id="WqWwgNi4uPpfO" data-image_url="http://media.giphy.com/media/WqWwgNi4uPpfO/giphy.gif" data-mp4_url="http://media.giphy.com/media/WqWwgNi4uPpfO/giphy.mp4" data-original-height="602" data-original-width="460" data-padding-top="0" data-still="http://media.giphy.com/media/WqWwgNi4uPpfO/giphy_s.gif" data-tumblr_share_url="http://media.giphy.com/media/WqWwgNi4uPpfO/giphy-tumblr.gif" height="400" id="gif" src="http://media.giphy.com/media/WqWwgNi4uPpfO/giphy.gif" style="height: 400px; width: 305px;" width="305"></div>

Have a Safe and Spooky Weekend!

Happy Halloween (Lord, please let this day be over soon). One of my children got into the Halloween candy and if we make it through this day without a serious injury, I will be relieved. Anybody remember Phillip the Hyper Hypo skit from SNL? That's my child right now. But really, nothing is cute…

31Oct2014

Accessories: A decorator's perspective

<h4></h4><span style="font-size: x-small;">Part 2 of 5</span><br /><h4>Accessorizing a client's home</h4>I'm often asked what is the most difficult job I do as a decorator.  Truthfully it is to accessorize a home.  Not because I can't create beautiful vignettes or select interesting objects, it's because I have a belief in individual expression in a home, and it is so difficult to feel this, and then try to create a look for someone else. The one thing I have as a decorator is an unbiased eye for someone else's space. That is helpful, and I often see new life in their discarded items.<br /><br /><h4>How I do it </h4>With clients I spend a lot of time chatting and gathering information.  I ask them to pull out all kinds of objects they already have, even ones they think they don't want anymore, and look for things to integrate with newly purchased objects.  Check out this <a href="http://designinghome.blogspot.ca/2013/11/accessories-making-it-all-work.html">post</a> to see one client's vignette.  I find out about their interests, travels, background etc.  I consider if they have children and what their interests are.  It is also worthwhile to look at children's art work for inspiration.  Another telling activity is to look at what is currently in a home and ask questions about its origins, etc.  When I ask how they want people to  feel/think when they come into their home, I usually get guidance for the overall look clients are going for.   Then I  put all the information together to come up with meaningful accessories that work for a particular  family.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9LVQOQNANwz6eJSK0sS-rH1INrNwm03gBXDvKT8OF8aeB8n2OPo9qlnjUcrACfho6jjXHweeU463cmMgqVYCYXF8R81gRfcIprdIrnHoPAa3QGnXA1GlsFvVo4fgrh_VhmreHy3LR9zqi/s1600/OB-organic+accessories.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="inspiration board, organic, geometric, spring green" border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9LVQOQNANwz6eJSK0sS-rH1INrNwm03gBXDvKT8OF8aeB8n2OPo9qlnjUcrACfho6jjXHweeU463cmMgqVYCYXF8R81gRfcIprdIrnHoPAa3QGnXA1GlsFvVo4fgrh_VhmreHy3LR9zqi/s1600/OB-organic+accessories.jpg" title="Accessories:  A decorator's perspective" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Client inspiration board - organic references </td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: normal;">This inspiration board was created for clients who were interested in finishing their space with additional accessories to add to objects they purchased during their travels.  When I looked at what they already had, I could see strong contrasts,  elongated textural sculptures</span>, and several vibrant colours.  I chose an earthy green, nature references and rounder shapes to work with the more elongated ones they already had.  I wanted to warm up the predominant " blackness" of their space and play into their obvious interest in geometric motifs and texture.  With the inspiration board in hand the clients chose to shop themselves over time to complete their space.  The flowers of course never happened!  Twigs were more their style.<br /><h4></h4><h4>A long term activity</h4>Adding the final touches to your home can take a long time.  You many have certain things in mind and can't find them; you many have budget restraints after purchasing big ticket items; you may be just plain exhausted doing everything else, and have no energy left to deal with little things. Or you can be bored with what you have and want to start over.   No matter where you are on the accessorizing continuum, you need to have a plan in place to create an interesting, personal space.<br /><div><br /></div><h4>Two ways to do it</h4>Of course the easiest way is to hire a decorator!  An inspiration board like the one above is a very affordable solution, and you can purchase all the objects referenced online, or you can use it to shop your area.  When people want to purchase locally, the inspiration board would contain objects/furniture available in the city.  Most decorators also have rates for personal shopping for clients.<br /><br />If you want to do it all yourself, I suggest the following:<br /><ul><li>Look online (Pinterest, Houzz) and collect inspiration images looking for patterns,  objects, colours, textures that  resonate with you; look at how they are displayed/arranged;</li></ul><br /><div>I keep way too many files on <a href="http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/margaretryall">Houzz</a> and <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/mryall/">Pinterest </a>to use as inspiration and reference when talking to clients about concepts. </div><div><br /></div><ul><li>Make a list of possible items for accessorizing from your inspiration images; have headings (e.g. art, table top vignette, pillow arrangements and styles etc. )</li><li>Remove all the accessories in the space you are working on and put them in another room; </li><li>Check your storage areas  and other rooms to see  if you have things that might have a new life in a different space;</li><li>Look at your collection and choose anything  that you love and think could work in the space;</li><li>Bring them to the room you want to accessorize and place any that work; </li></ul><br /><div>I went to my own storage area to see what extras I didn't have in use. Then I integrated some of them with arrangements I already had in my dining room to show you how many things can work and be changed around.  Obviously I care about these objects or they would have made their way to charity. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFVMk5Yx2vWzN5Iu8w8hqY9nO8Yp8Os7L7GsOtUC7CpSgCPdnADvF7PYK_DVgLDTK8nKpFGuu6Z5NF82J1n3MVhPg31LRerAYwqcqjGnSJxwdHUl9p50ep7XunoREvxobWP9zWlxhHjOHe/s1600/dining+vignette+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="dining room vignette, Boblen vase, accessories, " border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFVMk5Yx2vWzN5Iu8w8hqY9nO8Yp8Os7L7GsOtUC7CpSgCPdnADvF7PYK_DVgLDTK8nKpFGuu6Z5NF82J1n3MVhPg31LRerAYwqcqjGnSJxwdHUl9p50ep7XunoREvxobWP9zWlxhHjOHe/s1600/dining+vignette+1.jpg" title="Accessories:  A decorator's perspective" width="320" /></a></div><br /> These two items on the right get used for all sorts of things.  The top is image shows a Boblen  vase that I wrote about <a href="http://designinghome.blogspot.ca/2012/11/a-must-have-vase.html">here</a>, and the plate is part of a set of 8 that I use for entertaining.  It also works as a candle holder or propped up on a small plate holder it becomes a graphic piece of art.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT1qdrRRCr3v8ZOLzZp6VIz7arDDJWAh_LGXri16d4zpwKOhrN9nJseQwaT0OVhhF68VmEJRdp90_0yxEWtuyWG243TTe660Fua3_Oh4GkF3xbCQzDI9-zOXI7Df3Lxym02WpPI2_uILay/s1600/buffet+vignette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="wooden vase, black candle holders, fall decorating" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT1qdrRRCr3v8ZOLzZp6VIz7arDDJWAh_LGXri16d4zpwKOhrN9nJseQwaT0OVhhF68VmEJRdp90_0yxEWtuyWG243TTe660Fua3_Oh4GkF3xbCQzDI9-zOXI7Df3Lxym02WpPI2_uILay/s1600/buffet+vignette.jpg" title="Accessories:  A decorator's perspective" width="320" /></a></div><br /> The black mesh square tray was the base for a gift  I received last Christmas.  Black and square are two of my loves, when you add texture how could I let it go?  Anything hand made is alway a keeper especially when it has the beautiful form this vase does.  A few colourful berry branches the colour of the season can change the look completely.  Use your imagination about what additional seasonal objects you place in the basket/tray.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhii1l8Ik7Iq-P22wFUPsZfObjqS8RI6aN7ygz3KrBLjRQTinI3iq52Rtr69keAF41lEV3pxnKLb3pIT-PcBu8yEqTJdrb_RD9SMk8XzZnBt6O1_D3NvpiVeKW_MKM5L0O_jN9vQK38H-0g/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="stone eggs, accessories, black candle holders, vignette " border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhii1l8Ik7Iq-P22wFUPsZfObjqS8RI6aN7ygz3KrBLjRQTinI3iq52Rtr69keAF41lEV3pxnKLb3pIT-PcBu8yEqTJdrb_RD9SMk8XzZnBt6O1_D3NvpiVeKW_MKM5L0O_jN9vQK38H-0g/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" title="Accessories:  A decorator's perspective" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>And on to the stone eggs my sister gave me years ago.  This hand crafted white  bowl has a beautiful irregular form and can be filled with all sorts of goodies. </div><div><br /></div><div>You get the idea.  Once you've found homes for the objects you love,  you can...</div><div><br /></div><ul><li>Make a list of what else you will need;</li><li>Record needs and the size/height/colour of objects; </li><li>Take pictures of the areas you want to accessorize;</li><li>Go shopping (with your phone)! Don't forget to look in second hand stores, antique stores, dollar stores, craft studios, and on line second hand sales sites.  </li></ul><br /><div>Oh yes, trade with your friends and/or siblings!</div><br />Check back for Part 3 of my accessories posts where I visit a local home to explore how the owners went about adding the final touches to their new home.<br /><br /><br />

Accessories: A decorator's perspective

Part 2 of 5Accessorizing a client's homeI'm often asked what is the most difficult job I do as a decorator. Truthfully it is to accessorize a home. Not because I can't create beautiful vignettes or select interesting objects, it's because I have a belief in individual expression in a home, and it …

31Oct2014

Birthday Blues (and Whites!)

No birthday blues here!  I had a fabulous day.  I'm still recovering from an epic wedding weekend in Chicago, which I will share more about when I have sleeping kiddos.  But for now I wanted to share a few blue and white birthday gifts that I'm super excited about.<br><br><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcpMPb1j-Aokzn_Wuv5DLwuX_6JtAiVjiUW26y108ZubL2Q41c-ZwpJuOy8zk5tfKbQt81dQ7uwDTBDX5zAbrQCytCm1dHfeVI8N6bvTqWqQEUHMrWlJpsHcJM6oHSUzrwLM83sp-g1g4/s640/blogger-image-1733046571.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcpMPb1j-Aokzn_Wuv5DLwuX_6JtAiVjiUW26y108ZubL2Q41c-ZwpJuOy8zk5tfKbQt81dQ7uwDTBDX5zAbrQCytCm1dHfeVI8N6bvTqWqQEUHMrWlJpsHcJM6oHSUzrwLM83sp-g1g4/s640/blogger-image-1733046571.jpg"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wedgwood Pearlware "Flow Blue" Dinner or Cabinet Plate Circa 1855-69</td></tr></tbody></table><br>My in-laws gave me this wonderful plate to add to my collection of blue and white.  It's from an antique shop in Charleston called <a href="http://birlant.com/">Geo C. Birlant & Co</a> that I'm going to have to add to my list of shops to visit next time I go. <br><br>I love the cobalt color and the deliberate blurred effect that this type of glazing created, a style known as<a href="http://www.collectorsweekly.com/china-and-dinnerware/flow-blue"> Flow Blue</a>  Not only did I get a pretty plate to display, but I also learned something new!* <br><br><span style="font-size: x-small;">* I should probably learn more about blue and white if I'm going to be obsessed with it.  The other night I was discussing my love of blue and white with my friend's mother-in-law, who is an antiques dealer in Charleston, and she asked me which kind I loved the most.  I knew what she meant, but I had no answer.  I'm like, "all of it.  Just all blue and white."  Then I recovered by adding "particularly chinoiserie."  </span><br>  <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjj-CM36XZpXho4w31J53adfDFpnvUibqH0mzTyaZlyxpq5E3xDWYJzxFIAwuUKunanwHV-8eAUr2FeAUwtdUERZjG5Urb1DqbNaIwBuoWuW_7_dp02vOOvgr5VBb0gK6hnan_daCOz9o/s640/blogger-image--1736005311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjj-CM36XZpXho4w31J53adfDFpnvUibqH0mzTyaZlyxpq5E3xDWYJzxFIAwuUKunanwHV-8eAUr2FeAUwtdUERZjG5Urb1DqbNaIwBuoWuW_7_dp02vOOvgr5VBb0gK6hnan_daCOz9o/s640/blogger-image--1736005311.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div><br>Right now it's sitting on my mantle with some of my other favorite blue and white pieces.  (The mantle is about to get a new look.  Hint: <a href="http://belclairehouse.blogspot.com/2014/10/susan-harter-mural-papers.html">remember this post</a>). <br><br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj74SWhhrEgWCxiY8xWuCVrkE3nvy1bS9sef_Vb_SG7p-Fw2NH7l7q_pLMnJI_UPZqvAAvcgjTi6fYgsMRDh2NKo6qco02uMSCSMDroetgXbqna1YTbK_teZ7R5_z0P7xP8fKTq8WXF2mQ/s1600/IMG_6174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj74SWhhrEgWCxiY8xWuCVrkE3nvy1bS9sef_Vb_SG7p-Fw2NH7l7q_pLMnJI_UPZqvAAvcgjTi6fYgsMRDh2NKo6qco02uMSCSMDroetgXbqna1YTbK_teZ7R5_z0P7xP8fKTq8WXF2mQ/s1600/IMG_6174.jpg" width="480"></a></div><br><br>My mom gave me these gorgeous flowers from <a href="http://flowersbyemily.com/">Flowers by Emily</a>, a local florist here in Leawood, KS, who always does gorgeous arrangements.   <br><br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2vWqLOp30_bxKeQesSvwfR5CG3hglYbfv1HxBq0iMCp8htlNkcqVwhopwiC5PASBW_rbxPZ2yD64VgeFzDyCrzqMAQzVJ3tVoteB3vwE7sSjR5WOLeXEzWmKBCSQdJ1siHUiGEHIFh3s/s1600/IMG_6176.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2vWqLOp30_bxKeQesSvwfR5CG3hglYbfv1HxBq0iMCp8htlNkcqVwhopwiC5PASBW_rbxPZ2yD64VgeFzDyCrzqMAQzVJ3tVoteB3vwE7sSjR5WOLeXEzWmKBCSQdJ1siHUiGEHIFh3s/s1600/IMG_6176.jpg" width="480"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br>You can see a little bit more of two of my presents in the picture above.  First, The Suze is having pillows made for my family room in <a href="http://designs.cowtan.com/details.aspx?ItemNumber=F4025-05&Brand=&Item=&Colour=&Categories=&Keywords=morell&Start=&PerPage=6">this fabric</a> that we both fell in love with from Colefax and Fowler.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWZ579gIUONHunoJEaz8skXQFUubqHCx5AoecSXjhYxVe2K_IlDq2q88TwvB5V_lz22jLPVxq5rlHHBmiYFOTd_QihVA0HPnYaNJIhm_miBm5iRh40In-k3jrnp1eFhyphenhyphen6iv5t5Aphh9Go/s1600/IMG_4825.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWZ579gIUONHunoJEaz8skXQFUubqHCx5AoecSXjhYxVe2K_IlDq2q88TwvB5V_lz22jLPVxq5rlHHBmiYFOTd_QihVA0HPnYaNJIhm_miBm5iRh40In-k3jrnp1eFhyphenhyphen6iv5t5Aphh9Go/s1600/IMG_4825.jpg" width="480"></a></div><br><br>Then you may notice the little ticket glimpse.<br><br>One guess.<br><br><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNTx-T2WV-ZLqSa98qNoHNbEoCAy4aAR1z30F21TOp5cXc0jwvR8R9-t96lwLk8HeGi9I8Y48nTZkdCPJkfqjx8N-YLhDJD8JvOwScYtQpkdvK6cCuFiS-Xg6xW1tFnXSgvbLylXEpOYo/s1600/IMG_4809.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNTx-T2WV-ZLqSa98qNoHNbEoCAy4aAR1z30F21TOp5cXc0jwvR8R9-t96lwLk8HeGi9I8Y48nTZkdCPJkfqjx8N-YLhDJD8JvOwScYtQpkdvK6cCuFiS-Xg6xW1tFnXSgvbLylXEpOYo/s1600/IMG_4809.JPG"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mayybe I photoshopped my face ... not sure why it's purple.</td></tr></tbody></table><br>BRITNEY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br><br>Kip got me Britney tickets for my birthday!<br><br>I cried.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Not because of Britney (yes because of Britney), but because it was so thoughtful.  <br><br>He wins.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNnfn0-WYsYW-VC79m-N5JhdvSDMH14y0FxlJBa5i8ukZp9TtlKKjtOSrsAuCfZOa26AhcJq6i6duJ-1NqK-ae00ro3rBKCqF_ztaQlkUvH8rENkYwsxJ5ZQfDngJP9MlJ0F4hPWg1ChU/s1600/IMG_4810.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNnfn0-WYsYW-VC79m-N5JhdvSDMH14y0FxlJBa5i8ukZp9TtlKKjtOSrsAuCfZOa26AhcJq6i6duJ-1NqK-ae00ro3rBKCqF_ztaQlkUvH8rENkYwsxJ5ZQfDngJP9MlJ0F4hPWg1ChU/s1600/IMG_4810.JPG"></a></div><br>Kip, this is your prize**.  Your face next to mine on one of the greatest couple outfits of all time worn by Britney and JT.  You're welcome.  You can frame it and put it in your office.  <br><br><span style="font-size: x-small;">** Apologies if my husband ever runs for office and this picture starts to make the rounds.  And by apologies, I mean apologies to his opponent for not thinking of it first.  </span><br><br><br>Finally, not really a birthday present, but still pretty awesome (and blue and white), LET'S GO ROYALS!!!!<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihvL0YoeftT1Md8VWnOKbV1Midkrt03nBMiFyZVsquKkkL0wfgJ2IREMcO6DBG2klM7lA1qUe9BwgvV1Fz_6PYaZJV2x3sVzqroOAaAXxIU5tH-Q1WirRIe-l6uBzeSSq8cQ8SczXaMCw/s1600/478px-KC_Royals.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihvL0YoeftT1Md8VWnOKbV1Midkrt03nBMiFyZVsquKkkL0wfgJ2IREMcO6DBG2klM7lA1qUe9BwgvV1Fz_6PYaZJV2x3sVzqroOAaAXxIU5tH-Q1WirRIe-l6uBzeSSq8cQ8SczXaMCw/s1600/478px-KC_Royals.gif" width="318"></a></div><br>

Birthday Blues (and Whites!)

29Oct2014

Have a Loverly Weekend!

<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqqCKidXAnnuat-PqAcIHbJ_NHGRK5gUDEcx0NkSlLZ3KHwULDFwKiCducD3y3s1FR9i2taVI73g2bJMAsAKzpUjySlAO-FBT5-iM96G2Pmq0pHXpOSt-S5iky5Wcdfpw3Ml5ZQ27oZZY/s1600/traditional-garden-studio-peregalli-milan-italy-200510_1000-watermarked.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqqCKidXAnnuat-PqAcIHbJ_NHGRK5gUDEcx0NkSlLZ3KHwULDFwKiCducD3y3s1FR9i2taVI73g2bJMAsAKzpUjySlAO-FBT5-iM96G2Pmq0pHXpOSt-S5iky5Wcdfpw3Ml5ZQ27oZZY/s1600/traditional-garden-studio-peregalli-milan-italy-200510_1000-watermarked.jpg" width="501" /></a></div><br />* This picture has nothing to do with anything except it's pretty.  via <a href="http://designfile.architecturaldigest.com/photo/traditional-garden-studio-peregalli-studio-peregalli-milan-italy-200510?sponsor=">Architectural Digest </a><br /><br />Heading to Chicago for my bestie's wedding! I'm so excited to get to see some of my favorite people in the world and reminisce about our sillier days. I can't wait to eat, sleep and watch my bestie finally tie the knot.  We've been talking about this day since our college years when we'd sit up late at night, eating pizza, listening to Counting Crows and wondering if we'd ever find someone who would say, <a href="http://grooveshark.com/#!/search/song?q=Counting+Crows+Anna+Begins+%28VH1-Storytellers%29">"every time she sneezes, I believe it's love."</a>  Well, I don't think our guys would ever say that, but they feel it, and that's all that matters.  Love is in the air!  I hope y'all have a fantastic fall weekend! Go Royals!!<br /><br />Enjoy these linkies with your hot dogs and drinkies :)<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">A New <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QYZLy5uC5uc">Marcel the Shell With Shoes On</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">A perfect<a href="http://www.littlebeanshop.com/Black-Star-Print-Bodysuit-in-Slate-by-Joah-Love-p/joa-021.htm"> ROYAL blue onesie</a> for a little boy  </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.people.com/article/couple-married-73-years-dies-28-hours-apart?xid=rss-topheadlines">Proof of Soul Mates</a><br /><br /><a href="http://joannagoddard.blogspot.com/2014/10/my-sisters-awesome-dating-tip.html?m=1">An Awesome Dating Tip </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I had no idea <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/10/22/bill-murrays-parenting-advice_n_6029452.html">Bill Murray had 6 kids</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Something about <a href="http://blog.kellychristinephoto.com/recent-work-sweet-and-tiny-little-baby-betty/">these tiny baby pictures</a> make my heart melt  </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.parkerkennedyliving.com/index.php/blog/32-blanc-de-chine">I found a new thing to collect</a> (but I just know Edward is going to play with them) </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Gorgeous <a href="http://blog.thepinkpagoda.us/2014/10/blue-and-white-monday-schumacher-fabrics.html">Blue and White Fabrics </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.theglampad.com/2014/10/a-blue-and-white-regency-bermuda-in.html">Blue and White in Palm Beach</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Excited and Scared for what Tory Burch is going to make me think I can do with <a href="http://markdsikes.com/2014/10/16/color-is-coming/">this</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Cool <a href="http://freelanceclothing.squarespace.com/">Kansas City T-Shirts</a><br />(I just got my Royals one and it's soo cute!) </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Mark your calenders: <a href="http://aplus.com/a/britney-spears-day">November 5th = Britney Day</a>! </div><div style="text-align: center;">(For me it's Oct. 28th, the day I met my husband, dressed as pregnant Britney Spears, me not him, he was a ninja turtle, I felt God speaking to me, but then I thought, "Does God speak to people carrying Cheetos and dressed as a pregnant pop star? is this really how I'm meeting the man I'm going to marry?? Of all the times I've tried to look cute ..." True Story.) </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="TK TK gifs" src="http://big.assets.huffingtonpost.com/halloweendancingpumpkin.gif" width="570" /></div><br />

Have a Loverly Weekend!

* This picture has nothing to do with anything except it's pretty. via Architectural Digest Heading to Chicago for my bestie's wedding! I'm so excited to get to see some of my favorite people in the world and reminisce about our sillier days. I can't wait to eat, sleep and watch my bestie finally t…

24Oct2014

#TBT: Kansas City Spaces

<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0a6CPeEBpn0XSDfCDMSznynTAz2s1QWutRD0Z0DSbCEEGHm0hfJtZo0gWBD7qoYay5cd9UlmRHFgCzlihR72SQAN-HhsurdmNyPJcyswjPnwy4jxwv7nnlH0rJcfQiAzrHRY5a9OvKh4/s1600/TBT+78826bf7dd257f31a1f69739583b5b9c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0a6CPeEBpn0XSDfCDMSznynTAz2s1QWutRD0Z0DSbCEEGHm0hfJtZo0gWBD7qoYay5cd9UlmRHFgCzlihR72SQAN-HhsurdmNyPJcyswjPnwy4jxwv7nnlH0rJcfQiAzrHRY5a9OvKh4/s1600/TBT+78826bf7dd257f31a1f69739583b5b9c.jpg" /></a></div><br />Sooo I happen to have Kansas City (so in love), Blue and White (Go Royals!), and my bedroom (revamp) all on my mind.  Pinterest told me <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/280349145529553837/">this image</a> (above) has been super popular this month, a room by <a href="http://www.marshallwatsoninteriors.com/#/home">Marshall Watson</a> that appeared in an issue of <a href="http://spaceskc.com/">Kansas City Spaces</a>.  I clearly scanned it (poorly) and posted it in <a href="http://belclairehouse.blogspot.com/2011/01/twinkies.html">this kind of hilarious post about twin beds</a> that I must've written when I was in the throws of sleep deprivation after my first baby was born.  How soon we forget. <br /><br />Of course, I tried to find a better image and failed, but I did find <a href="http://www.marshallwatsoninteriors.com/#/interior-design/1922-georgian-home,-missouri">a pretty St. Louis Missouri home</a> on Marshall Watson's web site, which first appeared on the cover of <a href="http://www.traditionalhome.com/design/beautiful-homes/reviving-georgian-style-treasure-st-louis">September 2012 issue of Traditional Home</a>. <br /><br />From his web site:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsELjhPgX3NIXVRwLdBvrBLJ7qH9LdxKc98EGC0h_Bd_S6ijkrKvYiuF48E-6vvcg1PMLcCMPUE1l9Yo8Ygwa3hK3mFht8r2kFqjwezArGZJ0Y4_VirZlIYwO3Oa-x6emucBCgdJ-nB7M/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-10-23+at+2.01.22+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsELjhPgX3NIXVRwLdBvrBLJ7qH9LdxKc98EGC0h_Bd_S6ijkrKvYiuF48E-6vvcg1PMLcCMPUE1l9Yo8Ygwa3hK3mFht8r2kFqjwezArGZJ0Y4_VirZlIYwO3Oa-x6emucBCgdJ-nB7M/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-10-23+at+2.01.22+PM.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXsoDubfMZL0n7HwCKAR-VG0rEcVSnO4NkAMKXK4Bcgtn51pw_7DnacKIOwlfhOudQ8TP7Jg-SRfZ1_TzfXQpH8ZCr0tbe_ugyPmiI-eGt0fKaHoHYr9tAmDQ6oihwqMGzLDPP4VoaD1A/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-10-23+at+2.01.26+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXsoDubfMZL0n7HwCKAR-VG0rEcVSnO4NkAMKXK4Bcgtn51pw_7DnacKIOwlfhOudQ8TP7Jg-SRfZ1_TzfXQpH8ZCr0tbe_ugyPmiI-eGt0fKaHoHYr9tAmDQ6oihwqMGzLDPP4VoaD1A/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-10-23+at+2.01.26+PM.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk0A376s7KOwv-n5-ju9sZa_VxW69o8dUdBbP3tQpronhfbBR8AmmuYFcIALStllR4ZeiBm15h6uAYzqwXQfjf20iKyA4jDYtBNanK7NhypbdIxixXNlJ4HS665nETBPQDjmCghLwweo0/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-10-23+at+2.01.31+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk0A376s7KOwv-n5-ju9sZa_VxW69o8dUdBbP3tQpronhfbBR8AmmuYFcIALStllR4ZeiBm15h6uAYzqwXQfjf20iKyA4jDYtBNanK7NhypbdIxixXNlJ4HS665nETBPQDjmCghLwweo0/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-10-23+at+2.01.31+PM.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_brF1dysAsaBno94rvGSQUkdI_ssqu44jRQirQWLPJF5rW8ZaenO7OpRn84pnZPjbFt77p99W3o47YabPjxoA1-HbstFBAIPNkwiho1LoIWP4kzH1O7uqE-mv3NYD1xlM2bpr5o2sGqo/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-10-23+at+2.01.35+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_brF1dysAsaBno94rvGSQUkdI_ssqu44jRQirQWLPJF5rW8ZaenO7OpRn84pnZPjbFt77p99W3o47YabPjxoA1-HbstFBAIPNkwiho1LoIWP4kzH1O7uqE-mv3NYD1xlM2bpr5o2sGqo/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-10-23+at+2.01.35+PM.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNWthjqCNPnUlulIvhIhZd4g9UrancfdoRT01G7wYYcoI-UgEfX3qfvmZLLQx_YfOJz-50iLQvJlHlhYJHemTbNjALtxsfTzZv9UcRjWiJgwBJfG_X8MW9WWIpb77ITl7w_WKfY9mm-Qs/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-10-23+at+2.01.40+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNWthjqCNPnUlulIvhIhZd4g9UrancfdoRT01G7wYYcoI-UgEfX3qfvmZLLQx_YfOJz-50iLQvJlHlhYJHemTbNjALtxsfTzZv9UcRjWiJgwBJfG_X8MW9WWIpb77ITl7w_WKfY9mm-Qs/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-10-23+at+2.01.40+PM.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Jjm_lvN1_30pYUFFBHCaFLQIPBFRTrkp4VwUporyhiDA2v86ifxE3MfGTrzcpODRF_gH00CDz5mWr7ISO2Z8YsZZbk2Fctyrxg7pz5qaibLTdFybLNgB0wcE8JAMq2DRok5xdi5e8Fs/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-10-23+at+2.01.46+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Jjm_lvN1_30pYUFFBHCaFLQIPBFRTrkp4VwUporyhiDA2v86ifxE3MfGTrzcpODRF_gH00CDz5mWr7ISO2Z8YsZZbk2Fctyrxg7pz5qaibLTdFybLNgB0wcE8JAMq2DRok5xdi5e8Fs/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-10-23+at+2.01.46+PM.jpg" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And from <a href="http://www.traditionalhome.com/design/beautiful-homes/reviving-georgian-style-treasure-st-louis?page=18">Traditional Home</a>: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsQYkD_e1O_f9H9yoYQOSa0uLxTFus7pztiQ6HfGgfeJG15MedrrLHvjW2d1IXNIpCYekDeF51v2qVoqIx7GRtAYslWOVedmR6ZDIclNO-kHwK9b-0XVfWWkLG4krDv7WTLua7Sc5QU9E/s1600/Traditional+Home+Black+and+White+marble+flooring+p_101808900_w.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsQYkD_e1O_f9H9yoYQOSa0uLxTFus7pztiQ6HfGgfeJG15MedrrLHvjW2d1IXNIpCYekDeF51v2qVoqIx7GRtAYslWOVedmR6ZDIclNO-kHwK9b-0XVfWWkLG4krDv7WTLua7Sc5QU9E/s1600/Traditional+Home+Black+and+White+marble+flooring+p_101808900_w.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7VtaRWYB8lG2FubkgPcsrtrKMluug7Tmdac2htgHG_yXC8jLy9GG7-b3LgUD-hkfkSo-ao1cDn8Kx9CK5w_ESBhPSV_MolJnyD12p3wMsLkAyfNZnLhBwJtTDlfQM-6mIjTp4KEgGSb4/s1600/Traditional+Home+p_101808880_w.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7VtaRWYB8lG2FubkgPcsrtrKMluug7Tmdac2htgHG_yXC8jLy9GG7-b3LgUD-hkfkSo-ao1cDn8Kx9CK5w_ESBhPSV_MolJnyD12p3wMsLkAyfNZnLhBwJtTDlfQM-6mIjTp4KEgGSb4/s1600/Traditional+Home+p_101808880_w.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK858AuPJUaE5-GhQ53maJJ7bis3Znrz3i1pse35Y14-nS5ln3iaENW3PzYwHyVCcYa6xqNyRJoCOR0dQY8xfSJb_vwc9T2uzaT78W-RlJ4VumswKtl2Vs1OY4ILzhxIhqDcY9_RSiZw0/s1600/Traditional+Home+p_101808896_w.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK858AuPJUaE5-GhQ53maJJ7bis3Znrz3i1pse35Y14-nS5ln3iaENW3PzYwHyVCcYa6xqNyRJoCOR0dQY8xfSJb_vwc9T2uzaT78W-RlJ4VumswKtl2Vs1OY4ILzhxIhqDcY9_RSiZw0/s1600/Traditional+Home+p_101808896_w.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJVl0xtL3d7yVrtfop0V4snnZtdnWinct9ltWScTZeDkuAqVM85OW6PLvnhYztYwviRpCHTCwXbez3U_VOp7tM_mBga7XB2pjtYTbADOLpRVtUvI3o5QjcIVfWCCqDEYWyILh1UmX_sDc/s1600/Traditional+Home+p_101808898_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJVl0xtL3d7yVrtfop0V4snnZtdnWinct9ltWScTZeDkuAqVM85OW6PLvnhYztYwviRpCHTCwXbez3U_VOp7tM_mBga7XB2pjtYTbADOLpRVtUvI3o5QjcIVfWCCqDEYWyILh1UmX_sDc/s1600/Traditional+Home+p_101808898_1.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvqtoK_qkZsCTyNv8SODxc9yAaClKjlzkCGNBgE7nHBZ6d4rciPSiKbVIVsPm_ilelhss1tVQwPmhoyhT3XwxfmUVyMYQTiaeW8gdNingIuIkU33jz1BUUjfWVzTB4Qi8Jf_GjS93rx8Q/s1600/Traditional+Home+p_101808901_w.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvqtoK_qkZsCTyNv8SODxc9yAaClKjlzkCGNBgE7nHBZ6d4rciPSiKbVIVsPm_ilelhss1tVQwPmhoyhT3XwxfmUVyMYQTiaeW8gdNingIuIkU33jz1BUUjfWVzTB4Qi8Jf_GjS93rx8Q/s1600/Traditional+Home+p_101808901_w.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj61vJL7jkF37_RszHXfWuMh-jHBbqatveaclisdnQcosuT_1qphnL1noy7z5iXDCJvN7avTnYEG31eYYHX5bb5UMxNl79UIi4YVH9SE9GjHXMWzRI43hljrf432Q_C53ahFRl0Ihec9Js/s1600/Traditional+Home+p_Koman-image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj61vJL7jkF37_RszHXfWuMh-jHBbqatveaclisdnQcosuT_1qphnL1noy7z5iXDCJvN7avTnYEG31eYYHX5bb5UMxNl79UIi4YVH9SE9GjHXMWzRI43hljrf432Q_C53ahFRl0Ihec9Js/s1600/Traditional+Home+p_Koman-image.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjieClMz0U6iCJTtYzED8f7fuLl5SvB08XmZVzc9KCbPLKir8Oi510P_pYFuJOR2Ns-mlEyPGGNJk9VuG9BAhd6Yg5p3x1qqt3VhPfLGZ8NXAALdfhU-IVSECfwbAbJ3JjOmT4TN_EX-0A/s1600/Traditional+Home+p_101808887-CROP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjieClMz0U6iCJTtYzED8f7fuLl5SvB08XmZVzc9KCbPLKir8Oi510P_pYFuJOR2Ns-mlEyPGGNJk9VuG9BAhd6Yg5p3x1qqt3VhPfLGZ8NXAALdfhU-IVSECfwbAbJ3JjOmT4TN_EX-0A/s1600/Traditional+Home+p_101808887-CROP.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1t8jM2RRG3VKvnV5pphtisAFdawxSB4hqLlYBvNaewldAoeVDmjCK5pxLVicbBzDlTnP6Pp7PFXphmbqWswBahsDKrIz0xWv1ZKdeLg9qgAXBT1NzJsm7W-pixq4fpuIDpMtqLDHKFM8/s1600/Traditional+Home+Pool+House+p_101808882.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1t8jM2RRG3VKvnV5pphtisAFdawxSB4hqLlYBvNaewldAoeVDmjCK5pxLVicbBzDlTnP6Pp7PFXphmbqWswBahsDKrIz0xWv1ZKdeLg9qgAXBT1NzJsm7W-pixq4fpuIDpMtqLDHKFM8/s1600/Traditional+Home+Pool+House+p_101808882.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-LEC2yxAOnYtyOBArtbTclNqlXKD6VJVUGuDdOoyz64uHUpObQ132v21hahLBU2W6aE55xNAtokphlWDLyHnQTNxVfBtbE4koxLJdq-JkeY1y6ql7tSd7MueqCJ1j_W43C7h8jWLTwiU/s1600/Traditional+Home+Pool+House+p_101808884.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-LEC2yxAOnYtyOBArtbTclNqlXKD6VJVUGuDdOoyz64uHUpObQ132v21hahLBU2W6aE55xNAtokphlWDLyHnQTNxVfBtbE4koxLJdq-JkeY1y6ql7tSd7MueqCJ1j_W43C7h8jWLTwiU/s1600/Traditional+Home+Pool+House+p_101808884.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhra3IrrUpksYKYIh8cQN5h-TtICYr7AkJf5U2q1QAwE0zaF9vmP7qeIuZMyKbJAAIcR2j7nhFXUYqqJCCpUZkGqt9eW_bg6JwzAWJ61IqmrnohpJR3m5u_wTxrW0TTPdGof4OiduNiD4s/s1600/Traditional+Home+Pool+House+p_101808917_0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhra3IrrUpksYKYIh8cQN5h-TtICYr7AkJf5U2q1QAwE0zaF9vmP7qeIuZMyKbJAAIcR2j7nhFXUYqqJCCpUZkGqt9eW_bg6JwzAWJ61IqmrnohpJR3m5u_wTxrW0TTPdGof4OiduNiD4s/s1600/Traditional+Home+Pool+House+p_101808917_0.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's funny how the colors look different in the magazine images.  I'm in love with the pool house and it's interiors in the last 3 images.  Is it weird to say it looks like it smells good? It would be a great place to have a party.  I'm also very envious of the original black and white marble floors in the entry! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Love a good little trip down the rabbit hole of the Internets.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm glad we did that.  </div><br />

#TBT: Kansas City Spaces

Sooo I happen to have Kansas City (so in love), Blue and White (Go Royals!), and my bedroom (revamp) all on my mind. Pinterest told me this image (above) has been super popular this month, a room by Marshall Watson that appeared in an issue of Kansas City Spaces. I clearly scanned it (poorly) and …

23Oct2014

Fall at My House

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioCDBuBzZq7wlJpAUzVtHFKGVmA3s8jW0htroQ6jMEgalWU-o4szQ_JRP6eC3NN6_MVtZTIHt1ZZuMvg5pYyrdOLmT2rurLGeeoVon7xjlUC-llm8v_x5no001nvBpu2ZceXPYA4ynILk/s1600/IMG_6033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioCDBuBzZq7wlJpAUzVtHFKGVmA3s8jW0htroQ6jMEgalWU-o4szQ_JRP6eC3NN6_MVtZTIHt1ZZuMvg5pYyrdOLmT2rurLGeeoVon7xjlUC-llm8v_x5no001nvBpu2ZceXPYA4ynILk/s1600/IMG_6033.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><br /><br />Don't let the title fool you.  This is no <i>How to Decorate for Fall</i> Pinterest-worthy post.  This is my accidental minimalist Fall decor that I figured I'd share because, well, I like it and it's as good as it's going to get right now.  But I'm pretty sure no one is going to look at these pictures and say, "Oh my, where does she find the time?! How does she do it all!" Ha! It's ok.  I know that's why you love me, right?<br /><br />I intended to have more mums, but I could tell I was pushing my luck with my cart full of pumpkins.  So I chose two of the most brilliant magenta mums I could find.  And gotta have the Royals pumpkin. I'll post a step-by-step DIY on how to do it tomorrow. (Just kidding, paint it blue and grab a sharpie while the kids aren't looking).  <br /><br />In other news, I finally had a piece framed that had been sitting in our closet for 5 years (embarrassed blushing emoji).  I think my father-in-law gave it to us, but I can't be sure.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd2veN9ujTUpFis5Vh4ncGjBAJGhDX9fbENw-walI4zVC3RIyX4Ca2bk5mMhc40x5hUURU3BqsBDIIVKsRJ4mtCy3aC7akJ4Ob5iVVHzP4w5RoLYUxyQu2Xw7C2N1VS9n3M1NxoMbS00o/s1600/IMG_6036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd2veN9ujTUpFis5Vh4ncGjBAJGhDX9fbENw-walI4zVC3RIyX4Ca2bk5mMhc40x5hUURU3BqsBDIIVKsRJ4mtCy3aC7akJ4Ob5iVVHzP4w5RoLYUxyQu2Xw7C2N1VS9n3M1NxoMbS00o/s1600/IMG_6036.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />It's perfect for our country kitchen.  I love it because I've seen that scene a hundred times: when my family used to drive from Dallas to Peoria when I was little, when I drove home from Columbia, MO to Dallas and back in college and now from Kansas City to Dallas over the last 8 years.   It feels very much a part of me and very grounding to look at every day.  I never had it framed before because I knew I wanted to do it right. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVBEU_84fz6YkJ7G965XQEvMLch1tfkG5oOzVRwkhLrq5Onn0N5ZMpVUq_bWzefMY09SQMDasdWn00Z9wUEQMZEHpRWj54CMHYD0f0Qu16oo3W8dGkkUzhhRp4B3Bg9XwsfxdHIQbEnEI/s1600/IMG_6034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVBEU_84fz6YkJ7G965XQEvMLch1tfkG5oOzVRwkhLrq5Onn0N5ZMpVUq_bWzefMY09SQMDasdWn00Z9wUEQMZEHpRWj54CMHYD0f0Qu16oo3W8dGkkUzhhRp4B3Bg9XwsfxdHIQbEnEI/s1600/IMG_6034.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>  <br /><br />Major props to <a href="http://leawoodfineart.com/">Leawood Fine Art</a> for guiding me in the right direction.  <br /><br />Oh and if you blinked, you may have missed my Fall mantle decor ;) Trader Joe's, y'all.  Pumpkins and flowers and pumpkins and flowers.  <br /><br />Soo much decorating stuff in my head to share with you!

Fall at My House

Don't let the title fool you. This is no How to Decorate for Fall Pinterest-worthy post. This is my accidental minimalist Fall decor that I figured I'd share because, well, I like it and it's as good as it's going to get right now. But I'm pretty sure no one is going to look at these pictures and…

21Oct2014

Oscar De La Renta

Oscar De La Renta

A moment of silence for our fellow blue and white lover, Oscar de la Renta - a talent and inspiration gone too soon. (His Punta Cana home - one of my absolute favorites)…

20Oct2014

Thoughts on seasonal accessorizing

Do you constantly change up your accessories seasonally, or do you stick to basics collected over time and add a few seasonal  things to spice  up your space?  Perhaps you are a minimalist and don't think seasonal accessories are an important part of a space or you dislike "clutter".  Obviously all types of homes and interests exist, and there is no right way to decorate your home, there are only personal tastes.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOnQIOPJxuGNtlrYcpiLbNrsgHB9lf1B-CRKQ2MQo3IpQOefweAbKAyjx4u5EU_6bBlhsfKehQHR8c2YcyJN74FVybi617NAAURRp355M3nmD9vWpBseftLHvxtW8f2jqJ0Ys7YVjLK7g8/s1600/hallloween-mantle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOnQIOPJxuGNtlrYcpiLbNrsgHB9lf1B-CRKQ2MQo3IpQOefweAbKAyjx4u5EU_6bBlhsfKehQHR8c2YcyJN74FVybi617NAAURRp355M3nmD9vWpBseftLHvxtW8f2jqJ0Ys7YVjLK7g8/s1600/hallloween-mantle.jpg" width="298" /></a></div><h4 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://celebrationsathomeblog.com/2012/10/black-and-white-halloween-decor.html"><span id="goog_915964650"></span>source</a><span id="goog_915964651"></span></span></h4><h4 style="text-align: left;">Maximum accessorizing</h4> I read a variety of blogs and am constantly amazed by the number of people who go "whole hog" for the seasons and holidays.  They are constantly changing it up, creating mantles and table displays for every special event.  The continual "hunt and gather" shopping and creating  that these looks require tire me out just thinking about it.  I could never manage it with my schedule (or pocketbook).  I always wonder where all these objects are stored in someone's home.   Perhaps we  become too practical with age.  When  talking to friends we all seem to have the same ideas about  retiring objects not acquiring them.  I am wondering if maximum decorating is age related!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLATOq4VaSOsxZpRgTX30HU0biGaanokRt5jHC3EYtPDMhTvSVNb-cWtXA1edJ0d0wLAohePpYzRAw_RPVCvt-hI6PcJsMEmPI1nVpP3__0MXs6LpPW7mTYRgY1aLLr2glsfbOaOaLVYhX/s1600/minimal+-+fall+-decor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLATOq4VaSOsxZpRgTX30HU0biGaanokRt5jHC3EYtPDMhTvSVNb-cWtXA1edJ0d0wLAohePpYzRAw_RPVCvt-hI6PcJsMEmPI1nVpP3__0MXs6LpPW7mTYRgY1aLLr2glsfbOaOaLVYhX/s1600/minimal+-+fall+-decor.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><h4><br /></h4><h4>Minimal accessorizing</h4>Then there's the other side of the coin,  minimalist advocates  who are simplifying their lives as much as possible and that means eliminating "stuff"  and embracing function and clean lined beauty. That doesn't mean they ignore the holidays;  they will often add subtle, simple and often natural seasonal touches.  I  understand this desire to have a quiet, unadorned space.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h4>My personal taste</h4> I am a middle of the road kind of gal  when it comes  to the final layers in decorating.  I create variety by moving around my favourite things; you never know what will be where.  I also like to live with things that mean something to me, with  that meaning coming from various associations.  However, I do give a nod to holidays and seasons by adding in a few special touches to celebrate.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHNH9t7rOzacLRCwaftk_7QF1ycursKuxOYmalhMN_gEu5oz2qNijsRspNFy4UQ4foo0etanNx0U2uzwgo0HkY0ZU3MGT9fpGuKGSBaqkwBs9tGK6sprLxjMzUa_rhiY16nTkTaN3Iu8_x/s1600/flowers+-+quilt+block.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHNH9t7rOzacLRCwaftk_7QF1ycursKuxOYmalhMN_gEu5oz2qNijsRspNFy4UQ4foo0etanNx0U2uzwgo0HkY0ZU3MGT9fpGuKGSBaqkwBs9tGK6sprLxjMzUa_rhiY16nTkTaN3Iu8_x/s1600/flowers+-+quilt+block.JPG" width="311" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quilt block by Sharon Griffin</td></tr></tbody></table>As an artist, I am interested in objects that are original, hand crafted, and have beautiful shapes.   My current love is this quilt block (it takes the idea of a quilt block to another level) created by a friend of mine.  You can see how she makes her own home unique<a href="http://designinghome.blogspot.ca/2014/10/at-home-contemporary-quilter.html"> here.</a> The gerber daisies are my nod to fall, and the colours in the quilt block will work year around with reds and purples prominent.  So one container, one piece of art and lots of options.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyod5EOoym-jf54ytLHl45p2kPy-Sgg2VDAlXHpzkhYAoAQNpHOQe6V5HEuYHlCwBdMKfGVJYuHCkMjtZywbq3dE0mI5mWWNco3dhqX-jScHPNIk5zVQUCZUK1KRs36Aija52vVX8_xgI7/s1600/kubus-four.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyod5EOoym-jf54ytLHl45p2kPy-Sgg2VDAlXHpzkhYAoAQNpHOQe6V5HEuYHlCwBdMKfGVJYuHCkMjtZywbq3dE0mI5mWWNco3dhqX-jScHPNIk5zVQUCZUK1KRs36Aija52vVX8_xgI7/s1600/kubus-four.JPG" width="322" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kubus 4 Candle holder</td></tr></tbody></table>Many of the iconic designs of  the mid century modern period continue to resonate with me and over time I am adding my favourites to my decor. I love my Kubus 4 with its square, open base that allows you to place small objects within its frame.  You can also change candle colours if you are so inclined.<br /><br />Then there are subject matter preferences or design elements that catch my attention - perhaps too much at times. Leaves, twigs, birds, squares and circles/spheres are favourite motifs that keep appearing in various ways throughout my home. <br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPqBMNPKDTjTpXNl4xfKAAqAuloV2wQxvqoreoIsOgK__EGlSAc-AOeucvJ_s2rZ9SnuIY_32ZZb0wqb8WaEew7RI3gR1afyiV2MTzTM6lJSvy0IV6uif0TsCoW1useQGdSPBADJH0cjh9/s1600/sea-urchin-circle-bowl.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPqBMNPKDTjTpXNl4xfKAAqAuloV2wQxvqoreoIsOgK__EGlSAc-AOeucvJ_s2rZ9SnuIY_32ZZb0wqb8WaEew7RI3gR1afyiV2MTzTM6lJSvy0IV6uif0TsCoW1useQGdSPBADJH0cjh9/s1600/sea-urchin-circle-bowl.JPG" width="350" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Circle motifs</td></tr></tbody></table>You can go too far when you love something! The stylized sea urchins sculptures - a Target special- relate well to the black spotted bowl.   They remind me of my lazy summer days beachcombing,  and in the midst of winter, I need all the positive reminders of better times I can get.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnh_EhlGu76dyUa7TEOzyAYPisQWcv7Cg10FwI41z4_UQJii8Dkv-V9b1nqc6lA6nhlJEcRodIoNjr4JpY6ppqP9h1MZox7Xn5xhuE9j5srQXeMEhV3JrpmpVIzsFIB0YHZZQ3ahjnn3VI/s1600/seasonal-bowl_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnh_EhlGu76dyUa7TEOzyAYPisQWcv7Cg10FwI41z4_UQJii8Dkv-V9b1nqc6lA6nhlJEcRodIoNjr4JpY6ppqP9h1MZox7Xn5xhuE9j5srQXeMEhV3JrpmpVIzsFIB0YHZZQ3ahjnn3VI/s1600/seasonal-bowl_01.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />I went back three times before I purchased this bowl at Bowrings - a local store. When I realized the circles are transparent I knew it was a keeper.  If you add coloured tissue paper inside it you have a quick change seasonal object.  Multipurpose is the name of the game when you want simple seasonal decor.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Can you see my interest in nature creeping into my space in different ways?</div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOJg6_z92MaYHWA6yKayuJLrhBWJ8ivmrbzdHqutgbLrhEuAHPztEQLt22-hcCBacCerclWDy4KLDKgL6wFldK4rNX4Ytax6G8wOSzl7urODGLQyksjidnRfM0vM0UB-7rSfu5vRB3sPIi/s1600/dining+-+vignette.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOJg6_z92MaYHWA6yKayuJLrhBWJ8ivmrbzdHqutgbLrhEuAHPztEQLt22-hcCBacCerclWDy4KLDKgL6wFldK4rNX4Ytax6G8wOSzl7urODGLQyksjidnRfM0vM0UB-7rSfu5vRB3sPIi/s1600/dining+-+vignette.JPG" width="296" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plants and twigs and a nestled bird</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1x9kZedaGI9hey_dd8437dzCfbv9BOAXoZzqNGu-w0LDn0VORwDwIUl1POScXwMeIKoo45cHhol4x5uLMTq3uQHKXCYvTCd6c_upy89W14wE5R8oAxMrvnKNBwgyWanRPEc1MMVzoPop2/s1600/tulips-bird+dish.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1x9kZedaGI9hey_dd8437dzCfbv9BOAXoZzqNGu-w0LDn0VORwDwIUl1POScXwMeIKoo45cHhol4x5uLMTq3uQHKXCYvTCd6c_upy89W14wE5R8oAxMrvnKNBwgyWanRPEc1MMVzoPop2/s1600/tulips-bird+dish.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bird bowl by Erin McArthur</td></tr></tbody></table>Flowers are always a part of  my decor no matter where I am.   Sometimes I make  arrangements from my gardens,  sometimes they are purchased, and sometimes a good fake is thrown in to mix it up a bit.  Another bird in hiding.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJEIF1ABYpcPrXx1JAT8yhLDt2-qQXWqtucvxPx9M-9odhCZEGgCmBAt_ioD9IuPXasNg6A693QrNS_mkpRKO4gpL4he5_nmtYDIpD5_Q_823PJTYml4QvPHlGjtB2KZkK71478tgGMH4n/s1600/bamboo-walnut-block.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJEIF1ABYpcPrXx1JAT8yhLDt2-qQXWqtucvxPx9M-9odhCZEGgCmBAt_ioD9IuPXasNg6A693QrNS_mkpRKO4gpL4he5_nmtYDIpD5_Q_823PJTYml4QvPHlGjtB2KZkK71478tgGMH4n/s1600/bamboo-walnut-block.JPG" width="285" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Every home needs a lucky bamboo </td></tr></tbody></table>Hello squares.  Repetition in shape is a powerful design principle that can lead your eye around a space and provide interest.   And no style is more beautiful than cleaned lined mid century modern, especially when the chairs are free and you just need to recover them.  There are lots of mixed wood tones in my home too, but they never get darker than this  walnut table. I'm still embracing my golden oak - a great backdrop for plants. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzFwkXyxBjc5e7EjJ_pqZmtFDHOzhUJAt-Fxjw-6gewll0tG2JMzrac2J2MlGVvarzUh_lThVtifXPeeWACNeMxMI29OsXxmBfcTRWP_DXdEYAq0HqqhBrRJ-VlRVlAST6796_bk7pkxko/s1600/bird-nest-window.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzFwkXyxBjc5e7EjJ_pqZmtFDHOzhUJAt-Fxjw-6gewll0tG2JMzrac2J2MlGVvarzUh_lThVtifXPeeWACNeMxMI29OsXxmBfcTRWP_DXdEYAq0HqqhBrRJ-VlRVlAST6796_bk7pkxko/s1600/bird-nest-window.JPG" width="270" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A fragile nest in a nature inspired vignette  </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;">You may see a bird's nest propped on a window ledge looking very out of place in a contemporary space, but very in place with my interests.  Thanks Anita Sing for the sea urchin and print!<br /><br /> Your likes are usually repeated multiple times though out your home, many homeowners are quite surprised when I comment on this during an initial consultation. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQhQ97AaU-isKDQVWESIxG03ZEkK_1hamXdNBiSh1wOeyCCDWce5-GnQp03OLi3_rIzCRB3NHpNoWeJ24wM3N51RDJh5KgmkyK_xWHSXOEB_B8YfqkgW7vCxn4I4KoFOv5l-VlOgWaTcuy/s1600/fall+buffet_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQhQ97AaU-isKDQVWESIxG03ZEkK_1hamXdNBiSh1wOeyCCDWce5-GnQp03OLi3_rIzCRB3NHpNoWeJ24wM3N51RDJh5KgmkyK_xWHSXOEB_B8YfqkgW7vCxn4I4KoFOv5l-VlOgWaTcuy/s1600/fall+buffet_01.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fall leading to Halloween</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>I guess it is safe to say I celebrate  seasonal changes all year long by including nature references in various ways. Now isn't that an easy way out!<br /><br />What's you take on seasonal decorating?  Where does your style fit on the continuum?</div><br />

Thoughts on seasonal accessorizing

19Oct2014

Budget friendly design

<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm handing over the reins  today to Tom Smith writing about a favourite decorating topic - practical suggestions for decorating on a budget.</span></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When designing your home and choosing different pieces to incorporate into the space, it can be expensive to add new furnishings, rugs, and features. Although it can be costly to purchase new decor, there are several ways to stay within your budget and limit the amount that you spend. With DIY crafts and by shopping at discount locations, it's easy to create an interior that feels like home.</span></b></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></span><br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shop for Used Furniture</span></b></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></b></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"></b></span><br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl93dWgjjS8Qp1Xx7vqny3z2Zt-N3bUSlIJi4FvZVvh8hMgKjCQwjsvJbjoJJJwwomYutg0qtm3rH4RJjEoSdlA8pec07_wJ0qpHUOu03wNaX0ZGMxqobT1iL8tjrsay1qjU2-EmZbUm96/s1600/e7a45c900f971d2f1866dc33b8eef326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl93dWgjjS8Qp1Xx7vqny3z2Zt-N3bUSlIJi4FvZVvh8hMgKjCQwjsvJbjoJJJwwomYutg0qtm3rH4RJjEoSdlA8pec07_wJ0qpHUOu03wNaX0ZGMxqobT1iL8tjrsay1qjU2-EmZbUm96/s1600/e7a45c900f971d2f1866dc33b8eef326.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></b><b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="http://freshome.com/2012/11/12/10-budget-friendly-tricks-interior-decorators-use-to-create-luxurious-looking-spaces/custom_livingroom_furniture/"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">source</span></a><span style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></b></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"></b><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">More people are creating an eclectic and bohemian style in their living quarters for a cozy and mismatched style that offers plenty of details. Instead of breaking the bank on new furniture, opt for shopping at thrift stores or flea markets for treasures that will add extra dimension and character to each room. You can also consider revamping old furniture by sanding down wood pieces or reupholstering accent chairs with modern fabric.</span></b></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"></b></span><br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Add Drama with an Accent Wall</span></b></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></b></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq0FxKAeLARz0-e2kl3Q0Xscrb7qaAt8OhagI0z42KcgP6CcoSfvSylL4ryIR4sOaoxjfF0ZlvgKJmq-kGrrDd6hABECy7tDLvWfn3MRPEqKOqR9euPGMYJvtLNrx4vXfBj32piXexau_-/s1600/patterned+paint+rollers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq0FxKAeLARz0-e2kl3Q0Xscrb7qaAt8OhagI0z42KcgP6CcoSfvSylL4ryIR4sOaoxjfF0ZlvgKJmq-kGrrDd6hABECy7tDLvWfn3MRPEqKOqR9euPGMYJvtLNrx4vXfBj32piXexau_-/s1600/patterned+paint+rollers.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></b></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"></b></span><br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: xx-small; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="http://contemporary%20bedroom%20by%20eagle%20interior%20designers%20%26%20decorators%20studio%2080%20interior%20design/">source</a></span></b></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></b></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"></b><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Incorporate wallpaper into the design of your home — it’ll create a high-end look as if the space was professionally decorated. Instead of spending hundreds of dollars wallpapering a single room with multiple walls, focus on an accent wall where the material can be applied. Use wallpaper on the wall that is facing the entrance of the room for a great focal point in the space.</span></b></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"></b></span><br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sew the Linens Yourself</span></span></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"></b></span><br /><div dir="ltr" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: 1.15; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9bnUhORZ5tI1IO4Zu8WaexeDStZ-YL_-HcPdDovPohfGF0yJ_H4jPZ92bdByEPDDSXZ1Z3EoBd7070xiQ7gJOH27bFPh_CAi4Qv54hkrq8abjD2BmZvHpmspbtrsV886i19JNdkn69liI/s1600/0e1e6295af84c25fbb6864282878d6df.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9bnUhORZ5tI1IO4Zu8WaexeDStZ-YL_-HcPdDovPohfGF0yJ_H4jPZ92bdByEPDDSXZ1Z3EoBd7070xiQ7gJOH27bFPh_CAi4Qv54hkrq8abjD2BmZvHpmspbtrsV886i19JNdkn69liI/s1600/0e1e6295af84c25fbb6864282878d6df.jpg" width="157" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="line-height: 11.5px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/AfbAJQjpubXJj0wz8ntGtn40w63uRx0RWmYxGWahwIl6ou9PfTQ4pqYqEAH4_bm09A/">source</a></span></span></b></span><br /><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"></b><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">From curtains to couch pillows, linens add a cozy touch and are one of the main features with interior decor. Choose the fabric yourself and sew accent pillows and slipcovers for an inexpensive way of using new patterns in each room. It makes for a budget-friendly way of making over an old couch or adding a fresh tablecloth to a kitchen table without spending twice as much on the linens.</span></b></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"></b></span><br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">U</span></span><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">se Antique Accessories</span></b></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></b></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFeGB0y81oCUloyRXD64sY3KHLRhQW2INWCeRpnGTr2tJhGaULsXakwgof8mcau394h6brRp_zzCWQeR1J3qfID9yTrg4VqXOM1Tw6GalzswbwELndv0JZCrC2BSLVtGn5SzV8CvVmGTbp/s1600/antique+holders+500wi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFeGB0y81oCUloyRXD64sY3KHLRhQW2INWCeRpnGTr2tJhGaULsXakwgof8mcau394h6brRp_zzCWQeR1J3qfID9yTrg4VqXOM1Tw6GalzswbwELndv0JZCrC2BSLVtGn5SzV8CvVmGTbp/s1600/antique+holders+500wi.jpg" width="265" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></b></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://brookegiannetti.typepad.com/velvet_and_linen/2010/01/index.html">source</a></span></b></span><br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Antique accessories can add character to the decor and allow it to look more expensive with hand-picked items that are unique. Opt for mixing different types of metals for a modern style, which can include gold bookends or silver candlestick holders. You can also dress up a bare corner with an antique tricycle or decorate a fireplace mantle with old statues.</span></b></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Incorporate Baskets</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/2594051/Sullivan-Residence-contemporary-bedroom-denver"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simgs/7db16bfc0102d6b2_8-5886/contemporary-bedroom.jpg" width="280" /></a></span></div><div style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><small> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/studio80/studio-80-interior-design" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Studio 80 Interior Design</a></small></span></div><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">Allow your home to feel cozy with baskets that can be used throughout every area. Baskets are not only functional for organizational purposes, but also add a decorative element for a rustic and chic style. Use a dip-dyed basket to hold shoes by the front door or a wicker basket in the living room to store throws and blankets. You can also fill in blank spaces on bookcases and consoles with old baskets for an affordable product that can hold goods.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div></div><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"></b><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"></b><br /><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"></b><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tim Smith writes for </span><a href="http://modernize.com/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Modernize</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></b><br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.1500000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></b></div><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div><b id="docs-internal-guid-1c714e3f-d65e-310e-15cd-f5558d8e4843" style="font-weight: normal;"></b>

Budget friendly design

I'm handing over the reins today to Tom Smith writing about a favourite decorating topic - practical suggestions for decorating on a budget.When designing your home and choosing different pieces to incorporate into the space, it can be expensive to add new furnishings, rugs, and features. Although …

17Oct2014