Have an Exquisite Weekend!

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxQHEJ54KBE0Q3SeTEioGN8bKGpviYrnLHHU8pZ3LYAQSFoN2TDtzQmlJlvy_6wRixmy6was31wl179sz7EcG8-L28TBbJcRvnmoOEVZo-FE9i74FRZ7A2dVwGyPbgQDefhAVxD-aawM4/s1600/Weekend+09a62b341b90fab8369fc7b8a8a4724f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxQHEJ54KBE0Q3SeTEioGN8bKGpviYrnLHHU8pZ3LYAQSFoN2TDtzQmlJlvy_6wRixmy6was31wl179sz7EcG8-L28TBbJcRvnmoOEVZo-FE9i74FRZ7A2dVwGyPbgQDefhAVxD-aawM4/s1600/Weekend+09a62b341b90fab8369fc7b8a8a4724f.jpg" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">* Image via <a href="http://www.thisisglamorous.com/2014/01/winter-inspiration-tuesday-musings.html">{this is glamorous} </a></div><br />Morning Lovelies! Last night, after a day that seemed to last forever on top of a week that's seemed equally as long, I picked up this book my oldest friend gave all of her bridesmaids when she got married. I've skimmed through the pages now and again, but last night I decided to read it page by page and eventually cover to cover. My eyelids are too heavy to read a novel, but I'm craving an escape and a reminder of life's little pleasures.  It's a great way to end the day - something frivolous and interesting, like a fancy dessert.  And each entry is only a page or two long, which is perfect for me at the moment.</div><br /><div><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/AVvXsEiCxJ1NYCIPZppXsH-ijj6Zh5I2IMPSpFQb-nGwJJoGNUHAzXYVyP8bA5D03-bwwL-jqZjKZuTyxRU1OWJvu_cglWrMPgpnxK_BDhMZVhkjS5Ds7t2fhF9T9v8YIAv8_6jJQetdI2D8Bwk/s640/blogger-image--1395574641.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCxJ1NYCIPZppXsH-ijj6Zh5I2IMPSpFQb-nGwJJoGNUHAzXYVyP8bA5D03-bwwL-jqZjKZuTyxRU1OWJvu_cglWrMPgpnxK_BDhMZVhkjS5Ds7t2fhF9T9v8YIAv8_6jJQetdI2D8Bwk/s640/blogger-image--1395574641.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>Next week I plan to begin a new blog series inspired by this happy little book called The Exquisite Series.  Each entry will inspire a post of some sort. We'll see where it takes us.  Maybe it will inspire us to consider the little things in our own life that bring us joy.  </div></div><div><br /></div><div>Have a lovely weekend! </div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">If you want to read along with me, </div><div style="text-align: center;">you can order <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0385529694/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0385529694&linkCode=as2&tag=thegift03-20">Encyclopedia of the Exquisite: An Anecdotal History of Elegant Delights</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thegift03-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0385529694" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I saw <a href="http://momastery.com/blog/2014/01/16/save-relationships-ask-right-questions/">this article floating around Facebook</a> amongst lots of exhausted mom friends.<br />It certainly illustrates the unique situation of the stay-at-home mom and why "How was your day?" is nearly impossible to answer.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">On a lighter note, <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/01/29/budweiser-puppy-love-super-bowl-ad-video_n_4687985.html">this</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://blueprintstore.com/blog/behind-the-scenes-jenkins-interiors-2/">Blueprint does it again </a><br />* I love how they addressed a giant wall behind the stairs <br /><br /><a href="http://boxwoodterrace.blogspot.com/2014/01/ina-gartens-california-kitchen.html">Ina Garten's California Kitchen</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.designmanifest.com/inspiration/green-velvet-sofas/">Green Velvet Sofas </a><br /><br />The <a href="http://www.domainehome.com/bloody-mary-recipe/">perfect bloody mary</a><br /><br /><a href="http://designerbagsanddirtydiapers.blogspot.com/2014/01/mommy-confessions.html">Mommy Confessions</a> - I'm right there with ya <br /><br /><a href="http://blog.thepinkpagoda.us/2014/01/blue-and-white-monday-from-instagram.html">Blue and White on Instagram</a><br /><br />I like <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/11047961560306332/">these J.Crew Earrings </a><br /><br />Why I am not <a href="http://www.1stdibs.com/jewelry/more-jewelry-watches/more-jewelry/downton-abbey-georgian-diamond-floral-tiara-worn-lady-mary-on-her-wedding-day-to-matthew-crawley/id-j_160172/">in possession of this tiara</a> is beyond me<br /><br />I like <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/home-new2/29291317.jsp?cm_sp=Grid-_-29291317-_-Large_53">this sofa </a><br /><br /><a href="http://tigerflowerstudio.com/collections/gallery/harrison-howard">New Resource for Limited Edition Prints</a><br />* I'm eyeing these Howard Harrison chinoiserie prints </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>

Have an Exquisite Weekend!

  * Image via {this is glamorous} Morning Lovelies! Last night, after a day that seemed to last forever on top of a week that's seemed e...

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8 Simple ways to make your space interesting

<h3></h3>Details in decor can make or break a design especially when you have a more minimal look (not a lot of stuff around).  You need something interesting  to draw the eye and provide a  momentary resting place.  It might be a texture, a beautifully shaped stool, or an embellishment.  A space without details is immensely boring and who wants a boring home?   Here are simple ways to add some pizazz to your space. Each  space will have a different starting point. <br /><h3> </h3><h4><span style="font-size: small;">1. Use art  to create a vignette</span></h4><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/AVvXsEhtvI76iknqQsQiV6rX5uczdWMXnfppmg3qilN6og_ZvGo9SFBri1VtELFpkhDkFCxJ3XkP_fQkSpB7pVpP4GQgqHHDBRVpkakSKSXtfOxXzkd4lsuQI9q-fghtR4ob15EuGVat-mMb2Qb7/s1600/art-yellow-chair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="art vignette yellow interesting space" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtvI76iknqQsQiV6rX5uczdWMXnfppmg3qilN6og_ZvGo9SFBri1VtELFpkhDkFCxJ3XkP_fQkSpB7pVpP4GQgqHHDBRVpkakSKSXtfOxXzkd4lsuQI9q-fghtR4ob15EuGVat-mMb2Qb7/s1600/art-yellow-chair.jpg" title="Eye catching art anchors design " width="265" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eye catching art anchors design </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.lonny.com/photos/May+2013+Issue/RcQQFKUmgUx"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">source </span></a></div><br />Choose eye catching art and use it to create a vignette.  In this space the yellow chair creates a visual flow from the artwork and it is anchored by the stripes in the rug. Books provide a casual look but other items could be added to the bench to continue the tone set by the art. <br /><br /><h4><span style="font-size: small;">   2. Add pattern and texture </span></h4><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/AVvXsEj5QKLtkzHQ5jXzw8oE-rg-FHHALoMoDZeL2XohmDFRAm5Y7N3XjZlmR2ZJtbzVaBCbrwUvIO0Wj_aDu3UvdyeNf-CyHRn7AvROYl4gt2QNRBST-1PIs9kFKW5TBSMu5bwHnlrvB7iZBP1U/s1600/greek-key-border.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="greek key pattern texture interesting space " border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5QKLtkzHQ5jXzw8oE-rg-FHHALoMoDZeL2XohmDFRAm5Y7N3XjZlmR2ZJtbzVaBCbrwUvIO0Wj_aDu3UvdyeNf-CyHRn7AvROYl4gt2QNRBST-1PIs9kFKW5TBSMu5bwHnlrvB7iZBP1U/s1600/greek-key-border.jpg" title=" Greek key detailing adds interest " width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greek key detailing adds interest </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.maddiegdesigns.com/its-all-greek-to-me/">source  </a></span></div><br />The addition of pattern to any space instantly makes it more interesting .  Also consider using texture for a quiet way to add additional interest. <br /><br /><h4><span style="font-size: small;"> 3. Bring the outside in</span></h4><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/AVvXsEjmO2nA8s_uN17bf8RVeZF2SMNNSGJU3MKRlOfdV9aob2N1gjD_qWyqv3vnjijeQ80enYiiChZNe2P1ZeFU3RMMSSwFzIAknhYQvk3s78cFH6uYHO-HBuvRlPDplzPb7zy6_1qBtJEMv2FT/s1600/wood-stool-bathroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="wood stool bathroom interesting space " border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmO2nA8s_uN17bf8RVeZF2SMNNSGJU3MKRlOfdV9aob2N1gjD_qWyqv3vnjijeQ80enYiiChZNe2P1ZeFU3RMMSSwFzIAknhYQvk3s78cFH6uYHO-HBuvRlPDplzPb7zy6_1qBtJEMv2FT/s1600/wood-stool-bathroom.jpg" title="add outside materials inside " width="266" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Add outside materials inside</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://chivapiano.tumblr.com/post/3621356186"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">source </span></a></div><br /><br /> Who wouldn't notice the natural wood element in this stool in a hard edged bathroom.  The repetition of natural shapes from outside to inside woks so well to move the eye to the welcoming outside view. <br /><br /><h4><span style="font-size: small;">4. Layer furniture and accessories</span></h4><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/AVvXsEhIvWaNRX2JTtg8YiHuUmv0iWlcOF3QxgEwkmDQWNgl2BYjk-bp1naDY1x6PJYe9P2NDfBC9RyrznUzqDs_5k9wFhWUoMf0O4Mn9BDokY6c2MnwekTV3HCCrhflL0xFUNXpJDZN-HzPs-qu/s1600/wallpapered-bookcase_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="bookcase wallpaper focal point interesting space " border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIvWaNRX2JTtg8YiHuUmv0iWlcOF3QxgEwkmDQWNgl2BYjk-bp1naDY1x6PJYe9P2NDfBC9RyrznUzqDs_5k9wFhWUoMf0O4Mn9BDokY6c2MnwekTV3HCCrhflL0xFUNXpJDZN-HzPs-qu/s1600/wallpapered-bookcase_01.JPG" title="Pattern colour layering create a complex focal point " width="263" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Patttern and colour with accessories create a complex focal point </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://paintedroom.com/2012/04/marika-meyer-at-the-dc-design-house-2012/#comment-2594"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">source </span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div> Some focal points are large and a room is created around them.  Other times a secondary focal point can be introduced in a quiet corner of a space. This solution works when there are several seating areas in one space. Layering furniture and accessories is one way to create interest. <br /><br /><br /><h4><span style="font-size: small;">5. Choose spectacular lighting </span></h4><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/AVvXsEipS0KHXNmiRB80hRcE-fpNGykvtaixwz_jfzHeSNa2PDxJqY8xEW3TLxlGlUOA_N-ARM4d27lZ-s07K2mVr-IHNONbUziKN1NaGfJKe6QwrIFCp2MMsByX6qq7u6cevh7IZodN_e69D4ms/s1600/Tom+-Dixon-lighting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Tom Dixon lighting interesting space " border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipS0KHXNmiRB80hRcE-fpNGykvtaixwz_jfzHeSNa2PDxJqY8xEW3TLxlGlUOA_N-ARM4d27lZ-s07K2mVr-IHNONbUziKN1NaGfJKe6QwrIFCp2MMsByX6qq7u6cevh7IZodN_e69D4ms/s1600/Tom+-Dixon-lighting.jpg" title="10 Simple ways to make your space interesting " width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Spectacular Tom Dixon lighting </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.desiretoinspire.net/blog/2012/1/5/favourite-dining-rooms-of-2011-part-1.html"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">source </span></a></div><br /> Who could ignore the variety of shapes in these black pendants  that anchor the dining space in an open concept home? There are all kinds of lighting choices to adorn your space.  Find the one that is right for you. <br /><br /><h4><span style="font-size: small;">6.  Use geometry</span></h4><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/AVvXsEiN4hNkoZB-R_1ZitwqzoPWd6t5fmfPwmYbNLK3BVYXNgS9HqiKOEIHie-uPwHxw1qbQKd7fbu4fBfRCm1IZIm18xUsy-WdPGDmKHH0oAZcsD91vchNwLQU2YbUlptMplzOT2DL5EZwiMLC/s1600/striped-wallpaper-art_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="black white stripes hexagons gold interesting space " border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN4hNkoZB-R_1ZitwqzoPWd6t5fmfPwmYbNLK3BVYXNgS9HqiKOEIHie-uPwHxw1qbQKd7fbu4fBfRCm1IZIm18xUsy-WdPGDmKHH0oAZcsD91vchNwLQU2YbUlptMplzOT2DL5EZwiMLC/s1600/striped-wallpaper-art_01.JPG" title="Use geometry to create interesting spaces " width="290" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Black and white is always eye catching</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span><a href="http://theglitterguide.com/2012/10/02/style-at-home-marlien-rentmeester-of-le-catch/?slide=3"><span style="color: black; font-size: xx-small;">source </span> </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>When you combine several geometric shapes in one vignette, it can create a powerful focus.  When you add high contrast it is difficult to ignore.  Pop some gold into the combination and you have to look - more than once!<br /><br /><br /><h4><span style="font-size: small;"> 7. Use common items in unique ways</span></h4><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/AVvXsEi8FB38G30ykZ4hnh1HJUcwq5jDoT0NTXI4uysbhI1OSDJRVpR7zWw7-HELg1DSimhWUtJFa_vTLYa-iWDsGQVm8x05VeSj7e_K3Jmn1GgqPOWt-Ye8bV5Tl_JH4Ib2L3di6AO_9cFF2dmd/s1600/starfish-mirror_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="starfish mirror interesting space " border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8FB38G30ykZ4hnh1HJUcwq5jDoT0NTXI4uysbhI1OSDJRVpR7zWw7-HELg1DSimhWUtJFa_vTLYa-iWDsGQVm8x05VeSj7e_K3Jmn1GgqPOWt-Ye8bV5Tl_JH4Ib2L3di6AO_9cFF2dmd/s1600/starfish-mirror_01.JPG" title="simple ways to make your space interesting " width="266" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> A simple starfish repeated many times </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span><a href="http://www.centsationalgirl.com/2011/04/modern-coastal-style/"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">source </span></a></div><br />Take one starfish and it has an interesting shape.  Repeat that shape many times by overlapping and you have a sculpture that begs to be looked at and touched. <br /><br /><br /><h4><span style="font-size: small;">8. Use pops of  warm colours</span></h4><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/AVvXsEiwcjY1jaDPb6ALxT98FGd93QzWDUs29N0EfErp-NMRaaldxPEhbDEGvehn3xpmM307MK3lgEwpuYh6wvhJ8OAAHj9nuMvOzwczv4zH7cxn8TPJG81IdKd_Kp9sc8y_vdLGnrOYLEZoPEFE/s1600/red-white-stools.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwcjY1jaDPb6ALxT98FGd93QzWDUs29N0EfErp-NMRaaldxPEhbDEGvehn3xpmM307MK3lgEwpuYh6wvhJ8OAAHj9nuMvOzwczv4zH7cxn8TPJG81IdKd_Kp9sc8y_vdLGnrOYLEZoPEFE/s1600/red-white-stools.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ee; font-size: x-small;">Red is an eye catcher</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.hgtv.com/kitchens/under-200-kitchen-design-ideas-from-the-pros/pictures/index.html?nl=HGI_020112_featlink3">source</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>If you want instant attention choose red, yellow or orange as an accent.  Warm colours beg to be noticed by advancing visually in your space. <br /><br />Now that was easy.  If you have a space you aren't pleased with perhaps one of these suggestions might help to create more visual interest. Do you have favourite ways to create interest in your home? <br /><br />

8 Simple ways to make your space interesting

Details in decor can make or break a design especially when you have a more minimal look (not a lot of stuff around).  You need something in...

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Pamela Anderson's Malibu Beach House

A long, long time ago The Suze and I loved to watch MTV Cribs together.  I loved seeing the framed Scarface posters in the rappers dining rooms (always), and The Suze got to pretend she was the cool mom who let us watch MTV.  I distinctly remember watching the episode with Pamela Anderson's beach house and The Suze and I shouting "oh my gosh that is sooo my style!!!"  It was very, very Shabby Chic at the very beginning of the huge Shabby Chic trend.   Looking back, it's sooo NOT my style anymore, but at the time the idea of slipcovers, distressed everything and super-girly fabrics was genius and made me feel a sort of kinship to the Baywatch babe. <br /><br />You can see screen shots from the MTV Cribs episode over at <a href="http://hookedonhouses.net/2011/07/07/pamela-andersons-shabby-chic-beach-house-in-malibu/">Hooked On Houses</a>.  <br /><br />Well, now she has another beach house in Malibu (some girls have all the luck).  It's featured in <a href="http://www.coastalliving.com/">Coastal Living</a> and while she definitely sticks to her girly roots, it's much more toned down .  Shabby Chic's own Rachel Ashwell helped her design it and I have to say I really love the clean lines and focus on quality materials.  I can definitely appreciate this more modern Shabby Chic look!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoIwVsyC9Xy0OFObor6Tfa128q3F_n_5Ug4EiAJWSdjzLOYQRc07lAhgyCmQe_f19qJ8okzw7Ima90yv5cn1MVhX6Iggm6hNUIzjrsVEEeSUt_DdU37p7dKNK4SGJD8uNvtR1oz5YlAHE/s1600/IMG_9647.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="441" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoIwVsyC9Xy0OFObor6Tfa128q3F_n_5Ug4EiAJWSdjzLOYQRc07lAhgyCmQe_f19qJ8okzw7Ima90yv5cn1MVhX6Iggm6hNUIzjrsVEEeSUt_DdU37p7dKNK4SGJD8uNvtR1oz5YlAHE/s1600/IMG_9647.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBoR6jTcYBeBKjtimVb2QlOC712RfAlAJbKsKgMP6nGb2XZpFiHiQdXML3ZnuriCOhdbeB2HD2HxADzx5ILuKJ5cypQmXUfIKROvQThVHqajhRTcW5WRUxtKVLOiiX4YRRkjdg-lTyPMg/s1600/IMG_9648.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="556" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBoR6jTcYBeBKjtimVb2QlOC712RfAlAJbKsKgMP6nGb2XZpFiHiQdXML3ZnuriCOhdbeB2HD2HxADzx5ILuKJ5cypQmXUfIKROvQThVHqajhRTcW5WRUxtKVLOiiX4YRRkjdg-lTyPMg/s1600/IMG_9648.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzI__f3QgqukVwRbALIkZuLS0GC3NAc3lZ09zDrxLTF7l4oaKp4q09WxgxI3qm1x365pwNErqg5Poq5HH0TnzlPQsFKpJ_Hbci_HpZu7TqZ2wEK6dl85XMUkkj0MKp_7ZfTBK532cl5jQ/s1600/IMG_9649.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzI__f3QgqukVwRbALIkZuLS0GC3NAc3lZ09zDrxLTF7l4oaKp4q09WxgxI3qm1x365pwNErqg5Poq5HH0TnzlPQsFKpJ_Hbci_HpZu7TqZ2wEK6dl85XMUkkj0MKp_7ZfTBK532cl5jQ/s1600/IMG_9649.jpg" width="486" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy1i1zeNCrjtlgWA71u2-4wy0drJUuIc-2t_clPWYstjXI30sLLpkAJyIE9_kV1UbbY8ZwBGb_6tucnkKRs4mMRRfgn1s_RphybcJFLJUnbg5Pxjfm7SaIUxosTHmLHc7-zHt1L4sChJY/s1600/IMG_9650.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy1i1zeNCrjtlgWA71u2-4wy0drJUuIc-2t_clPWYstjXI30sLLpkAJyIE9_kV1UbbY8ZwBGb_6tucnkKRs4mMRRfgn1s_RphybcJFLJUnbg5Pxjfm7SaIUxosTHmLHc7-zHt1L4sChJY/s1600/IMG_9650.jpg" width="478" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4nIsEp4HuBhurjvzpFXFQuP3Ae31I0izwVmsr9A-kCnhi-stjUq8vZKsQFycqRjGJmfxwyAnBuzaZUtw1fhR9kvWXPgkCz9eohNoystdilGl9WZovjf88e5293kpzhAoNROHs5ts3Qck/s1600/IMG_9651.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4nIsEp4HuBhurjvzpFXFQuP3Ae31I0izwVmsr9A-kCnhi-stjUq8vZKsQFycqRjGJmfxwyAnBuzaZUtw1fhR9kvWXPgkCz9eohNoystdilGl9WZovjf88e5293kpzhAoNROHs5ts3Qck/s1600/IMG_9651.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />Having pink flowers in every room of your house doesn't hurt either :)

Pamela Anderson's Malibu Beach House

A long, long time ago The Suze and I loved to watch MTV Cribs together.  I loved seeing the framed Scarface posters in the rappers dining ro...

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Pinning Pretties

I loved <a href="http://mrsblandings.blogspot.com/2014/01/inspiration.html">this post</a> yesterday on <a href="http://mrsblandings.blogspot.com/2014/01/inspiration.html">Mrs. Blandings</a>, where she described Pinterest as this wonderful "<a href="http://mrsblandings.blogspot.com/2014/01/inspiration.html">sort of meditation</a>."  I ebb and flow with <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/jhadley32/">Pinterest</a>, but I've been back at it lately.  I really want to go through and clean up my boards (but I should probably clean my house first after I pin something to tell me how).  I've long since given up on DIY/things to do with your toddler/do this workout everyday pins.  I never do any of it.  Instead, I tend to focus on <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/jhadley32/sparkle/">pretty things</a>, <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/jhadley32/faves/">pretty rooms</a>, <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/jhadley32/words/">pretty words</a> and <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/jhadley32/tummy-love/">pretty yummy things</a> to fill my tummy. <br /><br />Here's some <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/jhadley32/pins/">pretty rooms I've pinned lately</a>.  I see a bit of a pattern. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoYje53z5ajQnYbMxXBD5PRYqMfJyu7CSkt5cIvpGZrFZ38hS1h4RI6Bhfgw2dYoL4cYD95jQug5NAXgFaxvjKawotPqaHJ7lpkpIH230SBNlYagSl2j65KKdyASr2C1Li6TFvdArZduk/s1600/Pinterest+1+ac857dc9453c7bd0d95c8aaab7135c64.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoYje53z5ajQnYbMxXBD5PRYqMfJyu7CSkt5cIvpGZrFZ38hS1h4RI6Bhfgw2dYoL4cYD95jQug5NAXgFaxvjKawotPqaHJ7lpkpIH230SBNlYagSl2j65KKdyASr2C1Li6TFvdArZduk/s1600/Pinterest+1+ac857dc9453c7bd0d95c8aaab7135c64.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZKiUjwiHebchi-JJ08vmzWmsJIE4AQEXg5eIxBCMg3VWepVR7tjLKwHJ9Cu2pOD6Rgy507-_pqE4wWL9Yk1QCErjzezTngLCk-x0DvrMdNJ9PbeQTgRRzej_S5iZMyA7Mn17pc9rnT6Q/s1600/Pinterest+2+ae3b3331f6fde1a398423d1cfb903351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZKiUjwiHebchi-JJ08vmzWmsJIE4AQEXg5eIxBCMg3VWepVR7tjLKwHJ9Cu2pOD6Rgy507-_pqE4wWL9Yk1QCErjzezTngLCk-x0DvrMdNJ9PbeQTgRRzej_S5iZMyA7Mn17pc9rnT6Q/s1600/Pinterest+2+ae3b3331f6fde1a398423d1cfb903351.jpg" width="486" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF_dfjHdYXVqDjUiJb22uEMD1hNhkppVYFVGZyoi6opf3hy2M5hboEjAuGX6EpadFpsfhpe0deLSqFxLDILqiXOh7vzRkEJpEe-8C6dIquJR747yOIaC1secK8xPMSalWJx4o92hutyCU/s1600/Pinterest+3+b80c22a3c0efa5410a79807307d90a88.jpg" /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5qddpbVKGLczroFAhaDmzghaZi76fTss2_McC6npSuc8ShnjmgBqZbPZzGF2MIp5JYyPiv5oQ5jmhupPoKnyVro1DWGSQ19_dTNfgWUi_BUzMl9xm2_Pel9h11oUc1kypJjVd-3TYpfA/s1600/Pinterest+4+b23d43fcd7f4190a990fdf6381c0e044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5qddpbVKGLczroFAhaDmzghaZi76fTss2_McC6npSuc8ShnjmgBqZbPZzGF2MIp5JYyPiv5oQ5jmhupPoKnyVro1DWGSQ19_dTNfgWUi_BUzMl9xm2_Pel9h11oUc1kypJjVd-3TYpfA/s1600/Pinterest+4+b23d43fcd7f4190a990fdf6381c0e044.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxoG4YdKcRzMuLHLQcyH_WLyP3yocs31UV4OG7im2m_nbmhxuQU6zI9rsCMQTKiLveRiAyBGk0rJM58ieQQEBObVnYgkILVVYQ0VrsiBxbccOUD5ulnRMmFOCKRteeFZ5EQ6VCJ4h2710/s1600/Pinterest+5+91a4b5a318ec37a1f75c38f4de2d3c5f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxoG4YdKcRzMuLHLQcyH_WLyP3yocs31UV4OG7im2m_nbmhxuQU6zI9rsCMQTKiLveRiAyBGk0rJM58ieQQEBObVnYgkILVVYQ0VrsiBxbccOUD5ulnRMmFOCKRteeFZ5EQ6VCJ4h2710/s1600/Pinterest+5+91a4b5a318ec37a1f75c38f4de2d3c5f.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjSxJ3xn3LpFqb7AbaGrUTxpiNCFBtmauoHHaVfLU0NFy_qJ90vvJOZ5RSCjJkoTCMGpbnpF0z3tg1uyqHOXLQXqabP97N-j_QV-a1np5Z4lijrgN84QO3EiP14p4B-DLwIuQ5Zpff-Qw/s1600/Pinterest+6+63dfd275035bd698541897d22e76e639.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjSxJ3xn3LpFqb7AbaGrUTxpiNCFBtmauoHHaVfLU0NFy_qJ90vvJOZ5RSCjJkoTCMGpbnpF0z3tg1uyqHOXLQXqabP97N-j_QV-a1np5Z4lijrgN84QO3EiP14p4B-DLwIuQ5Zpff-Qw/s1600/Pinterest+6+63dfd275035bd698541897d22e76e639.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuZLRJh1MNwuGUyFXEYgLIA6vQr3nSM4a252Mq7T_9GK0vGuivFOf6-gNJP8n1bkT0BqH0zsnL0Q-fP29Ze-3hAph07nDKJCXDp499Z2gbkIMJtdtcdY_A9uWB3GMEoLXv9x-gb6-IsBo/s1600/Pinterest+8+485f07cd50c7b98cadc0a136ce5296c4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuZLRJh1MNwuGUyFXEYgLIA6vQr3nSM4a252Mq7T_9GK0vGuivFOf6-gNJP8n1bkT0BqH0zsnL0Q-fP29Ze-3hAph07nDKJCXDp499Z2gbkIMJtdtcdY_A9uWB3GMEoLXv9x-gb6-IsBo/s1600/Pinterest+8+485f07cd50c7b98cadc0a136ce5296c4.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />xo

Pinning Pretties

I loved this post yesterday on Mrs. Blandings , where she described Pinterest as this wonderful " sort of meditation ."  I ebb an...

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Nicole Simone in Domaine Home

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiIXBs0PcsAKE0T0-90jTkqTD0qLjD6Ww5Xu4gzozahbiTTDyQTI-0PMHfEe1EgIgQpES6Mkx6bkK7YbMG9ld7fVnY1kGKPQGKtVzCrlGXgmnFzdmafZKXN9wsOwkV-AePXLP5IMAmB10/s1600/Nina+Simone+Domaine+Home+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="359" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiIXBs0PcsAKE0T0-90jTkqTD0qLjD6Ww5Xu4gzozahbiTTDyQTI-0PMHfEe1EgIgQpES6Mkx6bkK7YbMG9ld7fVnY1kGKPQGKtVzCrlGXgmnFzdmafZKXN9wsOwkV-AePXLP5IMAmB10/s1600/Nina+Simone+Domaine+Home+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYr9eSmlD-Xci_ub4tPxmNXF_pkL7EntFhh6bOSUoGkaIbDVjBxCZAAItTHq04XBbBfIVWALlW_R4xmIOOTt7XZrRgl6H9MT0UkntJ2pp4VawsTCV2Txm13KCSTht2NzvTR1rriuwj56U/s1600/Nina+Simone+Domaine+Home+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYr9eSmlD-Xci_ub4tPxmNXF_pkL7EntFhh6bOSUoGkaIbDVjBxCZAAItTHq04XBbBfIVWALlW_R4xmIOOTt7XZrRgl6H9MT0UkntJ2pp4VawsTCV2Txm13KCSTht2NzvTR1rriuwj56U/s1600/Nina+Simone+Domaine+Home+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicCmf7gktcCROgc-kbnqoamOfmnjoZ1EWshOzEIHKdcsda3zeAdrhzJNZiRshfgMDbqgZcICtyKfKUte1IAXzY75yIGgqySsyU3R6SFB6LONr16vcwaDMPOwapsRikqjcKq2a5xIWo4Z0/s1600/Nina+Simone+Domaine+Home+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="359" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicCmf7gktcCROgc-kbnqoamOfmnjoZ1EWshOzEIHKdcsda3zeAdrhzJNZiRshfgMDbqgZcICtyKfKUte1IAXzY75yIGgqySsyU3R6SFB6LONr16vcwaDMPOwapsRikqjcKq2a5xIWo4Z0/s1600/Nina+Simone+Domaine+Home+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />* Images via <a href="http://www.domainehome.com/singer-nicole-simone-hollywood-home/">Domaine Home</a>  <br /><br />I'm very much drawn to this look lately.  I like a little more traditional and a lot more blue and white, but I like the overall feel of these images. White walls, beautiful rug, lots of natural wood and a touch of fancy with that armoire.   They described it as Marie Antoinette meets rustic mid-century modern. <br /><br />That's all.

Nicole Simone in Domaine Home

* Images via Domaine Home   I'm very much drawn to this look lately.  I like a little more traditional and a lot more blue and white, bu...

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Around The House

Hello friends! I'm blogging from my phone today. My internet is acting up. I suspect the suboptimal arctic tundra we're living in is to blame. So I'm sharing some pics of my house from my phone today :) <div><br></div><div>As promised, here's a few of the new library. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_PWZYcwFfATmpHMkIw_u_dCS5ohkW5olDMJIzfkvYovDGaTMevLWaJ5VKYLg2pr8VmC8t-jgCA-aXc-wwPWYAwhXhXxzavhvSI7_Yc9TdQQsyAtUbFAS5FdQnwVARyJUzdgg7sHleMHw/s640/blogger-image-48988124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_PWZYcwFfATmpHMkIw_u_dCS5ohkW5olDMJIzfkvYovDGaTMevLWaJ5VKYLg2pr8VmC8t-jgCA-aXc-wwPWYAwhXhXxzavhvSI7_Yc9TdQQsyAtUbFAS5FdQnwVARyJUzdgg7sHleMHw/s640/blogger-image-48988124.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I'm still working on the bookshelves. We actually want it to be a functional library filled with all of our books so I'm trying to balance it with my need to have styled, pretty shelves. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">For those who are curious, the wood is maple. We had everything assembled off-site and then installed to look built-in.  We had some issues with staining that I'll go over in a separate post. But overall I'm really happy with it and feel that any flaws give it character. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiffBai9HsOss0ebKMgO6YV7kKA9nOJWFEs6LDGBPICzC63U_4KPg5B0zCnXG80Xk2WcRaGZC5swma5P2MnlAR3zUjMTNsFaHTx5ez_TMfwWu2iG0-9tJQ5InI8yh86LcbHgww0VfEXiho/s640/blogger-image--980256722.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiffBai9HsOss0ebKMgO6YV7kKA9nOJWFEs6LDGBPICzC63U_4KPg5B0zCnXG80Xk2WcRaGZC5swma5P2MnlAR3zUjMTNsFaHTx5ez_TMfwWu2iG0-9tJQ5InI8yh86LcbHgww0VfEXiho/s640/blogger-image--980256722.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFNvvWvxaHj9LoydJ1vxE3Dtfxp9b_Dn2Q70yyR9n51-qpXlXRrIPC-VmA8qa68m1qgpNai5v6eSMatcAYHVMyeu5dW7WgpRgqCZn5kX-nrkNnmcIyV9opV-3QYOjXYqXbKQNhwF4VwDo/s640/blogger-image--954945461.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFNvvWvxaHj9LoydJ1vxE3Dtfxp9b_Dn2Q70yyR9n51-qpXlXRrIPC-VmA8qa68m1qgpNai5v6eSMatcAYHVMyeu5dW7WgpRgqCZn5kX-nrkNnmcIyV9opV-3QYOjXYqXbKQNhwF4VwDo/s640/blogger-image--954945461.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFtTj94I8UNpyh-wgkbhnSRSKd37rdJo0q9-m-dcwMLt5aZYkU-IXro2HSUlxpPijcn7_Q-s3BX-BKFGwEZmjUKKgSjOtGaHAsKAWtQhllPWcsaNQOwEFPZU7wwmeLAbDk4b-J-pdVhsA/s640/blogger-image-577829610.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFtTj94I8UNpyh-wgkbhnSRSKd37rdJo0q9-m-dcwMLt5aZYkU-IXro2HSUlxpPijcn7_Q-s3BX-BKFGwEZmjUKKgSjOtGaHAsKAWtQhllPWcsaNQOwEFPZU7wwmeLAbDk4b-J-pdVhsA/s640/blogger-image-577829610.jpg"></a></div><br></div>There's another small built-in across from this that I have yet to tackle.   I'm waiting until I feel better. Styling bookshelves is way more fun to do at night after the kids go to bed with a glass of champagne.  I learned that from The Suze. </div><div><br></div><div>My dream for this room is a desk in the window, curtains, a cozy English roll-arm sofa and a big leather reading chair for Kip. </div><div><br></div><div>How pretty is this orchid from Trader Joe's? The blue and white pot was a Christmas gift from my brother and sister-in-law.  Theresa (in the background) is pleased that the orchid color flatters her skin tone, but she is not impressed that we have yet to paint her room or properly hang her on the wall.   </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4aTJb-buH69uo7jFlXY5Ur6MYztODHSyYboEb6bF4sHTqPZzssyf-svLWieXJj9-yNQ21RAow4aNcjGkfbAHCoRh_9-thOmkeeRsAd7p4eF0emX0PS9PvnF7Ps8DUoJD_ZpP5-m_JEjY/s640/blogger-image--1944268109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4aTJb-buH69uo7jFlXY5Ur6MYztODHSyYboEb6bF4sHTqPZzssyf-svLWieXJj9-yNQ21RAow4aNcjGkfbAHCoRh_9-thOmkeeRsAd7p4eF0emX0PS9PvnF7Ps8DUoJD_ZpP5-m_JEjY/s640/blogger-image--1944268109.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">And finally, on a whim, I picked up some carnations at the grocery store (quelle horreur!) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijI_swf71SZTJ1s8bL0Kyv4ExFzeVQDlGBth9gqD0xLAhQeMDmofBFIIGI_pcSeWt4YmCQfTXMs3lFvrlfRkl66hbPzOLefIdtvp9NlG3mgtDjrh5SdgRLz4p_87XbANRuWnjboSsw-OM/s640/blogger-image-557883237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijI_swf71SZTJ1s8bL0Kyv4ExFzeVQDlGBth9gqD0xLAhQeMDmofBFIIGI_pcSeWt4YmCQfTXMs3lFvrlfRkl66hbPzOLefIdtvp9NlG3mgtDjrh5SdgRLz4p_87XbANRuWnjboSsw-OM/s640/blogger-image-557883237.jpg"></a></div><br></div>I was looking for my favorite pale peachy pink roses, but they didn't have any. I actually love a big bunch of white carnations. They only had one so I grabbed the light green bunch as well. I was hoping for sort of a hydrangea look. As my friend commented, "they're quite ruffled and pretty."  She has superior taste so I feel affirmed. </div><div><br></div><div>So that's what's happening at my house. I can also tell you there's not a single toy on the floor. Not one. I swear on my De Gourney wallpaper ;) </div><div><br></div><div>Oh oh oh! I almost forgot! My fairy godmother of houses a.k.a. The previous owner of our home (the one who did all of the pretty stuff) dropped off an extra roll of the nursery wallpaper that she had in case we had any accidents. Isn't that so sweet?! I had a lot of people ask what the wallpaper is so now I can finally tell you: </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGmxiXB8mpP_7CICl5XAq7RNwkIR58TurMscHKw6H3PToo-0591ZBR1Jjhr0f7LE_ytc5Cer9gtFZI49mo2yqN2AdQe4PJYY1uvwYfHcuu2EOfw3PKfcFOEMjIR3DSKUsgDhw2LfYBIc/s640/blogger-image--1999035814.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGmxiXB8mpP_7CICl5XAq7RNwkIR58TurMscHKw6H3PToo-0591ZBR1Jjhr0f7LE_ytc5Cer9gtFZI49mo2yqN2AdQe4PJYY1uvwYfHcuu2EOfw3PKfcFOEMjIR3DSKUsgDhw2LfYBIc/s640/blogger-image--1999035814.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Echo Design pattern no. <a href="tel:56643949" x-apple-data-detectors="true" x-apple-data-detectors-type="telephone" x-apple-data-detectors-result="0">56643949</a></div><div><br></div><div>So that's that. Have a lovely day! </div>

Around The House

Hello friends! I'm blogging from my phone today. My internet is acting up. I suspect the suboptimal arctic tundra we're living in is...

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Slim Down Sunday: Week 4

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFsHCsk0-19fW867t1CDPQe4UI0BcQOWuBsJ9te0wfHkWXVO-s2euFRlTq6-kiA8fatSsbk5tNrgx_yBfGbWkQ4ogqxJRvllVeOd4spPPQ7k1shS3Ig8yxeDckmsvRmKJbWIWfVQhOVZo/s640/blogger-image-1485200811.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFsHCsk0-19fW867t1CDPQe4UI0BcQOWuBsJ9te0wfHkWXVO-s2euFRlTq6-kiA8fatSsbk5tNrgx_yBfGbWkQ4ogqxJRvllVeOd4spPPQ7k1shS3Ig8yxeDckmsvRmKJbWIWfVQhOVZo/s640/blogger-image-1485200811.jpg"></a></div><br></div>You guys, I can't even.  This is just ridiculous.  Not since the Oregon Trail has one family seen so much sickness. Ok maybe I'm being a little dramatic, but really these colds/ear infections/stomach bugs just keep making the rounds. The kids don't actually get it as bad as Kip and I do.  We're like total amateur parents who can't handle kid germs.<br><div><br></div><div>I started out the week really great! I went to Bar Method twice. The second time, the day I got sick, I felt really weak, like I had cement blocks on my feet.   It was all pretty sad and ugly from there. And then, I actually gained a pound this week! Rude. </div><div><br></div><div>So do I need to be drinking green drinks every morning? Does regularly washing one's hands count for nothing these days?<br><br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3sxalXZLD6C8gbo1cUEumDjriAJOZKMw8WTEcc1L2ulpHguKSmO3o98pKQ1eUmJ7gGX1L_TYSqE65b1XQIxZwaYD_vXVc-eb4PZz4uMCJqyKFMiduDkf3bNgtKrm7uyZelgMAUaBXnRw/s1600/Larry+David+7c99459679df0ccbdbd8ac51f4b9d51e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3sxalXZLD6C8gbo1cUEumDjriAJOZKMw8WTEcc1L2ulpHguKSmO3o98pKQ1eUmJ7gGX1L_TYSqE65b1XQIxZwaYD_vXVc-eb4PZz4uMCJqyKFMiduDkf3bNgtKrm7uyZelgMAUaBXnRw/s1600/Larry+David+7c99459679df0ccbdbd8ac51f4b9d51e.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>Last week my friend Tina, wanted to know what I've been eating to lose 2-3 lbs a week.  I think it's a complicated mix of things.<br><br>First, it's baby weight that I put on in a matter of 4 months (I gained nothing the first trimester and most of the second since I was vomiting most of the time, then I gained 45 lbs in 4 months - it. was. awesome.)  From my previous experience with Edward, it would have come off in about two years if I did nothing.  So losing most of it in 6 months is a big accomplishment for me, but not totally monumental. <br><br>Second, I've only lost that much over the last couple weeks and I've had a combination of sick kids, an out of town husband, a sick husband and a baby who won't let me put him down. I think it's less about what I'm eating and more about how much I'm eating. While I've been trying to stick close to my daily calorie goal, I've probably been way more active than I give myself credit (<a href="http://www.belclairehouse.blogspot.com/2014/01/slim-down-sunday-week-3.html">see last weeks post</a>). <br><br>To be honest, I probably wasn't eating enough (never a problem for me usually).  I plan on paying better attention to what I'm eating in the next few weeks.  I don't want to burn out.  Skinny and crying in a corner because I can't handle my kids is not really what I'm going for.T</div><div><br></div><div>But here are a few things I do eat regularly:  </div><div><br></div><div><b>Durkee & Turkey Sandwich</b> - when I need a quick snack, I can usually make myself a half a sandwich with one hand (one-handed eating is key with a 5 month-old). I use whatever bread we have, slather a little bit of <a href="http://www.durkee.com/productsearch?type=key&key=famous+sauce&x=0&y=0">Durkee's Famous Sauce</a> plus a couple slices of deli turkey, fold it over and eat it.  This is good enough when I don't have time for a proper hearty sandwich and better than a handful of Edward's goldfish.  </div><div><br></div><div><b>Rotisserie Chicken & Bag of Veggies</b> - I eat a lot of rotisserie chickens from the grocery store. Protein always fills me up and I'm weird about cooking chicken. I almost always have one in my fridge. I also love to have a bag of mixed veggies on hand (usually the asparagus bag). I pull it from the freezer and sautée it with a tiny bit of olive oil and whatever spices I have. I could eat half the bag and it fills me up for very few calories. On days I'm feeling super lazy/overwhelmed this combo works really well for a healthy, easy dinner. (Don't ask me what Edward eats, that's a whole other blog post) </div><div><br></div><div><b>Spinach Salads</b> - I'm trying to incorporate more salads I to my meals. I made a really good one last night. Spinach, red onions, blueberries, crumbled goat cheese, slivered almonds and Brianna's Blush Wine Vinaigrette. As long as you don't go crazy on the goat cheese, this is pretty light and satisfying. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimHPcZAuC4p5yWMlfUnrLJhYSbFqZNivp1sX02amJcTyzGBX1_x-T5GShGiI7KEWLOczClJtpT3MLum7OSujowAajfkNa4xi7yWEOuYp4ByQmXsOTDSbFv-aKK9I2ZC24Yw8_xHDxpCnk/s640/blogger-image--736111283.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimHPcZAuC4p5yWMlfUnrLJhYSbFqZNivp1sX02amJcTyzGBX1_x-T5GShGiI7KEWLOczClJtpT3MLum7OSujowAajfkNa4xi7yWEOuYp4ByQmXsOTDSbFv-aKK9I2ZC24Yw8_xHDxpCnk/s640/blogger-image--736111283.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><a href="http://belclairehouse.blogspot.com/2013/10/sunday-slim-down-week-3.html">Gwyneth Paltrow's Go-To Tomato Sauce</a> with anything that needs tomato sauce i.e. Spaghetti Squash, Trader Joe's Kale Parmesan Balls, Light Meat Balls </div><div><br></div><div>This <a href="http://joannagoddard.blogspot.com/2013/05/the-best-kale-caesar-salad-youll-ever.html">Kale Caesar Salad</a> Recipe </div><div><br></div><div>Finally, anything from <a href="http://skinnytaste.com/">Skinnytaste.com</a>. I love her recipes. </div><div><br></div><div>Do y'all have any Go-To healthy recipes? I'd love for you to share them!! </div><div><br></div><div>I'll share more next week! </div>

Slim Down Sunday: Week 4

You guys, I can't even.  This is just ridiculous.  Not since the Oregon Trail has one family seen so much sickness. Ok maybe I'm bei...

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Leaning art: 4 Guidelines to make it work

Art warms a home, makes it interesting, provides topics for conversation and contemplation , adds colour,  the list goes on indefinitely.  There are various ways to display art; some are more successful than others.  One option is leaning  art against a wall rather than hanging it, but this display option isn't always successful for a variety of reasons.  If you want to try leaning art, consider the following factors. <br /><h4><span style="font-size: small;">1. Scale - Choose artwork large enough to read from standing or sitting  position</span></h4><h4 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span></h4><h4 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span></h4><h4 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span></h4><div style="color: #444444;"><small><br /><a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/mddla/mark-dodge-design" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a></small></div><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="http://www.houzz.com/photos/74745/Loft-Downtown-Los-Angeles-eclectic-living-room-los-angeles" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="leaning art " border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simgs/b5314bb30cb5e4e1_8-1000/eclectic-living-room.jpg" title="Leaning art: 4 Guidelines to make it work" width="330" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/mddla/mark-dodge-design" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Mark Dodge Design</a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> The size of a piece of art in comparison to the space and objects around it usually determines successful placement. This painting fits the bill perfectly.   </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><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/AVvXsEhtxsL0spD-1Ws9_jPFJpfpnZQ3hxd37ykfZ5Z1WozklmSMdvB18z70B-gdPd8-N26RhATegOlPcLO4IW8hvaS4IPRR08EhG9pKC66FKRjTUg56JQ6HkdrJUXKfazD8SzAwiQY07o-JjQTS/s1600/art-bw-leaning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="leaning black and white large scale art " border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtxsL0spD-1Ws9_jPFJpfpnZQ3hxd37ykfZ5Z1WozklmSMdvB18z70B-gdPd8-N26RhATegOlPcLO4IW8hvaS4IPRR08EhG9pKC66FKRjTUg56JQ6HkdrJUXKfazD8SzAwiQY07o-JjQTS/s1600/art-bw-leaning.jpg" title="Leaning art: 4 Guidelines to make it work" width="277" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Large scale images work best<br /><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://07/leaning-art.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+inthefunlane%2FuDww+(Life+in+the+Fun+Lane)">source </a></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-weight: normal;">When you want to lean work on the floor it needs to be large enough to observe from standing position and bold in imagery so it can be read at a distance. Even the dog get this!</span><br /> <span style="font-weight: normal;"> The photo on the right works better than the  the art to the left of it because the image is tiny. </span><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/22927/dining-room-contemporary-dining-room-san-francisco"><img alt="large leaning abstract art dining room" border="0" height="334" src="http://st.houzz.com/simgs/f901c6250a0b5532_8-0624/contemporary-dining-room.jpg" title="Leaning art: 4 Guidelines to make it work" width="500" /></a> </span></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/marke/mark-english-architects-aia" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Mark English Architects, AIA</a></small></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Perfect scale and beautiful work that can still be seen and read while sitting or from other areas of the room.  </span></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;"><img alt="simple black and white composition leaning art" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH68MXUqIwN8SrfCMNz3pidJRAw7kqYJCx0toJQ1yOoJjBznLbeRNaQgcIJ7sdE59sZx5L1RnVFQ8j1gnMuPL1uE_aM5X2RhLxT6Bfkd684BA-YSjK5jkrTnjFsn-AZ4-8UAZCJmpmOZUL/s1600/bedroom-leaning-art.jpg" title="Leaning art: 4 Guidelines to make it work" width="300" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bold form and simple composition<br /><br /><a href="http://artpropelled.tumblr.com/post/12824070149/photography-by-gemma-comas"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">source </span></a></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-weight: normal;">The boldness and simplicity of this painting  make viewing it easier when leaned on the floor.  The objects in front of it enhance the placement and help to anchor it safely. </span>They do not interfere with the reading of the image. Which leads to the next guideline...<br /><br /><h4><span style="font-size: small;">2. Layering: Don't cover major parts of an artwork</span></h4><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/AVvXsEjpfVwGC-mU1sIXkc0BCDbGDRG2Nz1rUMeQS2rR-NVlssWhYlh5RZe7WyaglDGuqGCVdx8y3CxcuHsA-6HCHue1CTzetOafOTMOaGf656_LbKcMIn-8gJXNp23cJQ345I8H8o7MHy5fvdt0/s1600/dark-leaning-art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="abstract leaning art with chair" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpfVwGC-mU1sIXkc0BCDbGDRG2Nz1rUMeQS2rR-NVlssWhYlh5RZe7WyaglDGuqGCVdx8y3CxcuHsA-6HCHue1CTzetOafOTMOaGf656_LbKcMIn-8gJXNp23cJQ345I8H8o7MHy5fvdt0/s1600/dark-leaning-art.jpg" title="Leaning art: 4 Guidelines to make it work" width="308" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Successful layering<br /><br /><a href="http://decorology.blogspot.ca/2010/09/great-inspiration-for-hanging-art-and.html"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">source </span></a></td></tr></tbody></table>Layering other objects in front of an artwork is a tricky business.  This vignette is successful because the image is large, dark and has quite a bit of space where there are no details.  The chair and table lie in areas without too much detail.  You don't feel as if you are missing  important elements of the work.  <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;"><img alt="large leaning artwork behind table" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs8Ok9d9mCp9Jv3cVWXThlOjvc50bWL2YT6zni1IoLGAgh1IHYIGbuMUOhwFzuCJkpWrBw_t1e05lScNbn2v379_bp7yoJIykqX27uTczJ9-8AULxxArZj7F8Pee_WqTgnrUGa5rkTHBWB/s1600/large-leaning-art.jpg" title="Leaning art: 4 Guidelines to make it work" width="326" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Do you want to remove anything here?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/mryall/art-in-your-home/"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">source </span></a></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;">There are so many things about this vignette I love, but I want to see all of the artwork and part is hidden by the table and books.  Even removing the books would help things considerably.   Love the candlesticks and the table, both really work with the artwork. </div><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/AVvXsEix2XnhptES2RwPRmJdbyvnyVYSJ5GOtxOZiQO7cNuFWGnPGRTKgnYfjPwUKYZ0WQsLazBi44ZG7jw-RVpd1U294XU7KYB0AcgSfbb6OpmzzqWWJQAPaTbUHi7HMw-OjPxnEmD5H1zDMrC4/s1600/leaning-art-shelf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="leaning art on mantle" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix2XnhptES2RwPRmJdbyvnyVYSJ5GOtxOZiQO7cNuFWGnPGRTKgnYfjPwUKYZ0WQsLazBi44ZG7jw-RVpd1U294XU7KYB0AcgSfbb6OpmzzqWWJQAPaTbUHi7HMw-OjPxnEmD5H1zDMrC4/s1600/leaning-art-shelf.jpg" title="Leaning art: 4 Guidelines to make it work" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Successful layering where each image is clearly seen.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/mryall/art-in-your-home/"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">source </span></a></td></tr></tbody></table> Layering art on shelves, consoles, and mantles can be very interesting. It is a way to display smaller pieces  to good advantage.  While this is a very simple vignette with the branch acting as a consolidating element, it is possible to have more complex collections of objects. <br /><br /><h4><span style="font-size: small;">3. Colour scheme:  Restrict colour combinations in  leaning gallery display</span></h4><h4 style="text-align: center;">  <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/AVvXsEioIpvCJpg2flPysvxW2aegKSm8mxV4_6daYwi7O2u6OBzJ48ib78FgUOVG1gJcMXVayHKEQKquPALqeG43VDSk3oWDAIWgLGPwFnwlLqHKst7sakJQgI2VJLx0pEOpRegi9aKEZp-3XlCN/s1600/gallery-wall-limited-colour-scheme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="gallery wall limited colour scheme" border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioIpvCJpg2flPysvxW2aegKSm8mxV4_6daYwi7O2u6OBzJ48ib78FgUOVG1gJcMXVayHKEQKquPALqeG43VDSk3oWDAIWgLGPwFnwlLqHKst7sakJQgI2VJLx0pEOpRegi9aKEZp-3XlCN/s1600/gallery-wall-limited-colour-scheme.jpg" title="Leaning art: 4 Guidelines to make it work" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Limited colour scheme provides cohesion</td></tr></tbody></table></h4><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/6079400/M-I-Homes-of-DC--Maryland----Crown---Monet-Model-contemporary-family-room-dc-metro"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> source</span></span></a><br /></div><span style="font-weight: normal;"> <span style="font-size: small;">There are lots of small pieces in this display but they read as one unit because of the colour cohesiveness. </span></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs8Ok9d9mCp9Jv3cVWXThlOjvc50bWL2YT6zni1IoLGAgh1IHYIGbuMUOhwFzuCJkpWrBw_t1e05lScNbn2v379_bp7yoJIykqX27uTczJ9-8AULxxArZj7F8Pee_WqTgnrUGa5rkTHBWB/s1600/large-leaning-art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><h4 class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">4. Image: Choose the right image for the space </span></h4><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><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/AVvXsEiUzJacAAvqiKHMq_lsYOn0B7bcFnTa773hRuCbiGEYhhucumXowlldCRDuy8xGrc7VmO4I0_LfP5KOCn5z1VlMwQO6ZUiuN_WBgT5KeX5kWIl6IlY5aJaNBMImNyRlQEsStsG2H4gpIZCx/s1600/red-plane-art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="red airplane leaning art " border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUzJacAAvqiKHMq_lsYOn0B7bcFnTa773hRuCbiGEYhhucumXowlldCRDuy8xGrc7VmO4I0_LfP5KOCn5z1VlMwQO6ZUiuN_WBgT5KeX5kWIl6IlY5aJaNBMImNyRlQEsStsG2H4gpIZCx/s1600/red-plane-art.jpg" title="Leaning art: 4 Guidelines to make it work" width="324" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ee; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #0000ee;">Art with <span style="color: #0000ee;">s</span></span>imple bold form</span></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs8Ok9d9mCp9Jv3cVWXThlOjvc50bWL2YT6zni1IoLGAgh1IHYIGbuMUOhwFzuCJkpWrBw_t1e05lScNbn2v379_bp7yoJIykqX27uTczJ9-8AULxxArZj7F8Pee_WqTgnrUGa5rkTHBWB/s1600/large-leaning-art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/117643/Betsy-Burnham-contemporary-bedroom-other-metro"> source</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I think the work that layers best in a vignette has bold form and colour.  It can compete with the other objects for your viewing attention. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now it's your turn.  What do you think of this arrangement?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY0D9550CgGp5-BIdsYHmrCO2kH8F46ZWsNAGpwbWnsV8hpNQK78E9g87qShjI4lh8O2xmX2sqaoWJM4gVCOeAVi0DVv3nc4K-JAYC7YntjWt0cvJvrdmZKuTyvecS__M8wBKsd95iV_Ha/s1600/leaning-art-three.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="framed art leaning " border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY0D9550CgGp5-BIdsYHmrCO2kH8F46ZWsNAGpwbWnsV8hpNQK78E9g87qShjI4lh8O2xmX2sqaoWJM4gVCOeAVi0DVv3nc4K-JAYC7YntjWt0cvJvrdmZKuTyvecS__M8wBKsd95iV_Ha/s1600/leaning-art-three.jpg" title="Leaning art: 4 Guidelines to make it work" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/mryall/art-in-your-home/"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="color: black;">source</span></span></a></div><br /><div><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/74745/Loft-Downtown-Los-Angeles-eclectic-living-room-los-angeles"><br /></a></div><div style="color: #444444;"><small><br /><a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/mddla/mark-dodge-design" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a></small></div>

Leaning art: 4 Guidelines to make it work

Art warms a home, makes it interesting, provides topics for conversation and contemplation , adds colour,  the list goes on indefinitely.  T...

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Have a Lovely Weekend!

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjO7JT73ZT90vG-4PYxEyimq9HYO91pzsc1MV_ZskSyE16Jyn1PxYlYLX5DOy4Ei9wqVWrbq5a8PmAGTwEfroatrPNhNCONzXefdlesymkaZwlUjvPtpbQ1SfgbTq0NLGar0CKwk_gVKM/s1600/IMG_9454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjO7JT73ZT90vG-4PYxEyimq9HYO91pzsc1MV_ZskSyE16Jyn1PxYlYLX5DOy4Ei9wqVWrbq5a8PmAGTwEfroatrPNhNCONzXefdlesymkaZwlUjvPtpbQ1SfgbTq0NLGar0CKwk_gVKM/s1600/IMG_9454.jpg" width="489" /></a></div><br /><br />* one last image from <a href="http://www.theenglishhome.co.uk/home">The English Home </a><br /><br />Hey y'all! Sorry for the super late post.  Another stomach bug invaded our home and this time I'm the last to get it.  It's times like these I wish I lived closer to my family.  Hopefully, we'll all be on the mend soon!<br /><br />Enjoy these linkies:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/mommys-not-allowed-to-get-sick-how-to-be-sick-when-you-cant-call-in-sick-182667">Mommy's Not Allowed to Get Sick: How To Be Sick When You Can't Call In Sick </a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>How appropriate is this?</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://momsbestnetwork.com/wells-big-girl-room-reveal-in-virginia-destination-nursery-winner-no-3-dnkidsroommakeover/">The Most Adorable Big Girl Room Ever </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">This <a href="http://www.stylemepretty.com/gallery/picture/1337516/">gorgeous centerpiece</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">This <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/11047961560255522/">wedding dress </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">This <a href="http://www.stylemepretty.com/gallery/gallery/5431/">wedding</a> </div><div style="text-align: center;">(my new sister's wedding, I so wish we were sisters then!) </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://markdsikes.com/2014/01/21/cant-get-enough/">White & Wood & Camel</a> - I can't get enough either </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Just a <a href="http://www.thisisglamorous.com/2014/01/winter-inspiration-tuesday-musings.html">really beautiful post </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">This guy is <a href="http://blissfulbeardsdoitbest.tumblr.com/post/73581954911/its-so-strange-to-have-not-known-someone-for-very">writing a novel on Tumblr</a> and his words are always so beautiful </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I posted a sneak peek of my library on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/belclairehouse?ref=hl">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://instagram.com/p/jhgNWRoxap/">Instagram</a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I'll share more next week! Have a lovely weekend!  </div>

Have a Lovely Weekend!

* one last image from The English Home Hey y'all! Sorry for the super late post.  Another stomach bug invaded our home and this time I&#...

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More Pretties from The English Home!

Helloo Y'all! As promised, I'm finally bringing you some more pretties from the long lost (May/June 2013) issue of The English Home, which I found whilst <a href="http://www.belclairehouse.blogspot.com/2014/01/the-english-home.html">cleaning out my kitchen hutch</a>.  (Note: no other cleaning has taken place since that epic purge.  wamp wump.)<br /><br />*Yes, I shamelessly took photos of the pages with my iPhone because my scanner makes everything look like it's from 1982.  I suggest if you like what you see, get a subscription to <a href="http://www.theenglishhome.co.uk/home">The English Home here</a> for much better images :)  Also these photos are not all from the same house.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKURU3OnRByy0YIjNPe4LMyhEcmOp2wE64Sc2a1KpdDG_dVbrf2V6JUPsGO2AQVL1Olxs2b0zeZDyEY5X-261TPxfPPR39Y-wXUlPlasAAtd3lMxEQc5LmvIub-tvx-Fnb39WbKu7Qi54/s1600/IMG_9456.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKURU3OnRByy0YIjNPe4LMyhEcmOp2wE64Sc2a1KpdDG_dVbrf2V6JUPsGO2AQVL1Olxs2b0zeZDyEY5X-261TPxfPPR39Y-wXUlPlasAAtd3lMxEQc5LmvIub-tvx-Fnb39WbKu7Qi54/s1600/IMG_9456.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />I'm currently obsessed with large roll-arm sofas like striped the one above.  I love a sofa that demands one curl up on it rather than sit.  I'm trying to find one for my library that's not too pricey, since we just bought a new sofa for the family room.  <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi839l4MFu7D6Z4rOqLPOVhkW4TYXxDNApBw0dbCNkpRvI9mF-cXxB1xLEwYvQVMHWUjOGGFDOOu_QP1sQ-XoslIlAGQP9lkSNGMItEAiLUiFKRqel36XLJ8K8pUldrrAOOFAKI9svliY8/s1600/IMG_9461.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi839l4MFu7D6Z4rOqLPOVhkW4TYXxDNApBw0dbCNkpRvI9mF-cXxB1xLEwYvQVMHWUjOGGFDOOu_QP1sQ-XoslIlAGQP9lkSNGMItEAiLUiFKRqel36XLJ8K8pUldrrAOOFAKI9svliY8/s1600/IMG_9461.jpg" width="399" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNh6sDHudyQ7QLkqMIEkflrF43LkBKBN0qHZvMTib8uPjuGMRH9bZS_nZhQUJSmbc2AUDhbZSPh3srfc4zfjT0qXfG8Hs4xkTa61x6lyMOIw68fCl9t_RB5AiyyLM46HH6Jkc3IDQK1OU/s1600/IMG_9462.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNh6sDHudyQ7QLkqMIEkflrF43LkBKBN0qHZvMTib8uPjuGMRH9bZS_nZhQUJSmbc2AUDhbZSPh3srfc4zfjT0qXfG8Hs4xkTa61x6lyMOIw68fCl9t_RB5AiyyLM46HH6Jkc3IDQK1OU/s1600/IMG_9462.jpg" width="462" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The bedroom above is so pretty to me.  I love how the mahogany writing desk is the star.  According to the magazine, the walls are painted <a href="http://us.farrow-ball.com/clunch/colours/farrow-ball/fcp-product/102009">Farrow & Ball Clunch</a>, which my friend over at <a href="http://www.thingsthatinspire.net/2012/09/the-chandelier-dilemmawould-love-your.html">Things That Inspire</a> suggested I try for the dining room.  The way it looks with that desk may have me ordering another sample.   </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The rest is all from the same house. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Oh heyy dream house! </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2HL4YKk6qZvEtA-njjrK0gZF-gAbRTSrRm6fBv1eQOwYaykn1Eq4hd5mVa-BhkOza9RNR0RqfUP4JxPBsBUJ9oatiWPaw5yZv87LyejuNDHSAd5JT7KDK3-eyotj6JzBZ-7qiZIM97c0/s1600/IMG_9463.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="558" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2HL4YKk6qZvEtA-njjrK0gZF-gAbRTSrRm6fBv1eQOwYaykn1Eq4hd5mVa-BhkOza9RNR0RqfUP4JxPBsBUJ9oatiWPaw5yZv87LyejuNDHSAd5JT7KDK3-eyotj6JzBZ-7qiZIM97c0/s1600/IMG_9463.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjko8rQs1xiPGs-6Eg9QC3ZvmtpqdKtrlIEKuicmWh0nugV9SERbLLROk6FYdy9uoEGwb2tC12JXt3uDrEbVY_hFvFY69Ec_hovpM1V38LISxib5K0wg_GwCIDJ4Z0OgvFGuZQ3ulz4W4k/s1600/IMG_9464.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="593" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjko8rQs1xiPGs-6Eg9QC3ZvmtpqdKtrlIEKuicmWh0nugV9SERbLLROk6FYdy9uoEGwb2tC12JXt3uDrEbVY_hFvFY69Ec_hovpM1V38LISxib5K0wg_GwCIDJ4Z0OgvFGuZQ3ulz4W4k/s1600/IMG_9464.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUHXUFcG6I8U0hQ9WUR5rjKeNRLU76T8vk5_kWHlq9xE8Qr9bFb1xWCe2HU7oq_0Hr-dysdlq2RbGs95tzWDDqKJTYgi0D7VM-wHruLXKNsq4VaT4Wq-nNK0LxS-N2UXxG-GAtG_WUAY0/s1600/IMG_9465.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUHXUFcG6I8U0hQ9WUR5rjKeNRLU76T8vk5_kWHlq9xE8Qr9bFb1xWCe2HU7oq_0Hr-dysdlq2RbGs95tzWDDqKJTYgi0D7VM-wHruLXKNsq4VaT4Wq-nNK0LxS-N2UXxG-GAtG_WUAY0/s1600/IMG_9465.jpg" width="446" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbzMQz_FsW-mechAtbM6ltDxCHnI_3IqagfCj1MO-vFUKtv0wOlfVTNQ4wlRaYHTmCgtZ3Nx_CfMK4bAysz8_ZhzpobtE1U0jIc9mQ7nsyexfRC01nnsLO2C7xPmr5E1u4m_YkQnl3ay4/s1600/IMG_9466.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbzMQz_FsW-mechAtbM6ltDxCHnI_3IqagfCj1MO-vFUKtv0wOlfVTNQ4wlRaYHTmCgtZ3Nx_CfMK4bAysz8_ZhzpobtE1U0jIc9mQ7nsyexfRC01nnsLO2C7xPmr5E1u4m_YkQnl3ay4/s1600/IMG_9466.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvgtL4b7pmRplvbcvQaB7nq1hckTBcsWHKoBDNqbpqcrkdaFeRP4HulqiV3XtvWZeC9J7tE9xgsTlLMf_zydHVEpVBRWrBgtdkLZDFdc-osSlo0Iuhp3N_zvbjFqK0nMXx2VMcG01hjoM/s1600/IMG_9467.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvgtL4b7pmRplvbcvQaB7nq1hckTBcsWHKoBDNqbpqcrkdaFeRP4HulqiV3XtvWZeC9J7tE9xgsTlLMf_zydHVEpVBRWrBgtdkLZDFdc-osSlo0Iuhp3N_zvbjFqK0nMXx2VMcG01hjoM/s1600/IMG_9467.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilFhuJN3QQCA1gdGQthtDXhLqv-wIeWQa6JrQe43O7dVqSlsModif_QRlp0q3WnlHjz25zDbP0lSsKUyTRNbBBUP73HiqQ37VCr042QxtHYg4si61WjTY5k8C4TXu8LTOcVaVZIRH6fTQ/s1600/IMG_9468.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilFhuJN3QQCA1gdGQthtDXhLqv-wIeWQa6JrQe43O7dVqSlsModif_QRlp0q3WnlHjz25zDbP0lSsKUyTRNbBBUP73HiqQ37VCr042QxtHYg4si61WjTY5k8C4TXu8LTOcVaVZIRH6fTQ/s1600/IMG_9468.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />Lots of white and wood, which you know next to blue and white is my favorite look.  How about that cane bed in the last picture?  It's just really, really lovely. <br /><br />I hope this makes up for my lack of posting the last two days! <br /><br />

More Pretties from The English Home!

Helloo Y'all! As promised, I'm finally bringing you some more pretties from the long lost (May/June 2013) issue of The English Home,...

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