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Monday, October 29, 2012

A Loft Space

This guy's mom has a pretty amazing home. I'll admit it, I was lucky enough, to do the interior design. It's what, in my opinion, "bonded" the 2 of us. Really bonded us. We worked on the entire home, together. Start to finish. Over a year. It was one of my favorite projects!

These days, her grand babies, are spending much more time with grandma. So grandma decided it's time to make a few changes. To her lovely home. Changes that will allow the girls, to have a space of their own.

First we had to decide on a room. Well, Mrs. J has a beautiful loft space. And after much thought, we've decided to move her "reading room," to a lower level. Then make the loft area, a space for the girls. Great ideas.

I asked Mrs. J, to look for some inspiration. I had an idea. The girls had an idea. But this is Mrs. J's home. I want her to have a space that she can enjoy. Even when the girls aren't there. And what did Mrs. J fall in love with? The same picture that I'd saved to my computer. :)


People it was something, that just made me happy. With a few splashes of color, I knew this would be perfect for the girls. Heck, as they get older, we can change the accent colors. And Little W, can also enjoy this space.

We've slowly been tackling this. With all that's been going on, in this man's life, it's been slower than expected. But we picked out the wood flooring. And the wood for the one accent wall. We didn't want to feel like we were in a "tree." That's not with this remodel was all about. So we decided on one wood wall.

For the ceiling, we're going with something a bit different. A paper technique. So that will have to wait a bit. Until all the other "heavy work" is done. After taking a look last night, we're right on schedule!

The floors are installed. A window seat has been built. The trim is painted and installed. The walls are painted. Heck, in just 2 weeks, we've got a fully functioning bathroom!!! OK, I'm getting excited. :)

This week, we're focusing on the fun stuff. Like that ceiling. Oh, I can't wait! I'm also waiting to hear back, from the carpenter. Who is building us beds. That are so fun! And when they are not being used as beds, can easily be transformed, into comfy couches.

This is just one of those really fun projects. One that I'm happy to be a part of. The room has an "outdoor" feel to it. With tons of light. A very spacious feeling. To me, it feels a bit like, living in a glamorous tree house. With a bit of sparkle, that only girls can appreciate. Something I would have adored, when I was little. ♥

Saturday, October 27, 2012

Mix and Match for Fall

One of my absolute, favorite things about Fall, are the colors. The rich colors. The mix of textures. Oh, I could just go on and on, for days. Instead, I was searching through Polyvore last night. Passing some time, before calling a friend.

What did I find? Well, lots of things. But there was one board, that completely stuck out to me. I don't know what it was. But I adored it. What do you think?


Mostly, I like the colors. The variety of colors. But more than anything, I like the idea of mixing textures. Of mixing, and matching pieces, from different seasons. For example, that dress might be from Spring or Summer. Those shoes, and that ring, are definitely Summer pieces. But that jacket, and the makeup, scream Fall and Winter to me.

That's the thing I love about Fall. You can mix and match so much. To get that perfect look. OK, I'm not in love with these shoes. But I like the color. Maybe I'd pair this outfit, with a similarly colored clutch. Perhaps find a pair of coral and pink earrings. And a turquoise blue ring. Taking these colors, but using them in a slightly, different way.

Quite in fact, this little picture, has inspired me. I'm sort of challenged by it. And now, I'm dying to dig through my closet. To see what I can pair together. What pieces would go well. As we transition from Summer, to Fall. ♥

Friday, October 26, 2012

Perfect For Twins

My dear friends, Dawn and Alejandro, have only been married a short time. Just a few months. But they are expanding their family! :)

Shortly after returning, from their Honeymoon, the happy couple found out, they were expecting. And were so excited!!! Then just a few short weeks ago, they found out, there are 2 beautiful babies growing.

We are all so excited!!! Not just for the happy couple. But for their family. You definitely need to read Dawn's blog. To learn more, about her story. :)

Something that I really admire about Dawn is, she is a surviver. And an amazing mother. She is also a big reader. And encourages her kids, to read too! So when I was visiting one of my favorite blogs, I came across these sweet little hats!!!


Dawn and Alejandro, have been told the sex of their babies. They also let me know. :) But the doctors will not guarantee the results. Tomorrow marks 18 weeks. At 20 weeks, we will know for sure. 100%. That means, I need some "gender neutral" projects.

Can you see why this project is so perfect??? Oh, and it is even more perfect, when you take Alejandro's 1st "baby purchase." A stack of Dr. Suess books!!! I know. It doesn't get much better. Now, I better get crocheting. I've got double the gifts to make. ♥

Aunt Ruby's Sweet Potatoes

Yes, I'm so excited for Fall!!! Not about the current weather we are having. Hurricane Sandy, please stay away. But I'm ready for the cooler temps. I'm ready for hearty Fall cooking, sweater wearing, and lots of holiday decorating!!!

This week's Gooseberry Patch, Free Recipe of the Week, is right up my alley!!! Sweet Potatoes. One of my favorite things to eat. Period! I'm that woman, that buys sweet potatoes in July. :) Yes, I like them that much. Now, I have one more yummy recipe. Just in time for Fall!!!



Aunt Ruby's Sweet Potatoes

3 c. sweet potatoes, peeled, cooked and mashed
1 c. sugar
1/2 c. butter, melted
2 eggs, beaten
1 t. vanilla extract
1/3 c. milk Brown Sugar

Topping: 1 c. brown sugar, packed
1/2 c. all-purpose flour
1/3 c. butter, softened
1 c. chopped nuts

Mix all ingredients together. Spoon into a greased 13"x9" baking pan. For Brown Sugar Topping, combine ingredients; mix well. Then sprinkle with Brown Sugar Topping. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes. Serves 8.



Yum! This was good. Really tasty to be exact. I actually made this, for breakfast. Just this morning. I'm such a "Lover of Fall." And of sweet potatoes. This hits all those "bells and whistles" for me. :) And you see that it says it serves 8? Yeah, I ate half of this...just a little while ago...

I'm thinking, this would make a nice side dish. Maybe with pork chops, or chicken breasts. With a nice little salad. Yum! I think I just figured out, what we're having for dinner. :) Hey Hills and Barracuda, want to join us? ♥

Thursday, October 25, 2012

60 Days...and a Little Wishing...

Just a little while ago, I got off the phone. With a good friend of mine. One that I hadn't talked to, in way too long!!! Say over a month...too long. If we're being honest here, it's almost been 2 years, since we've seen one another.

This is the same friend, that I used to meet for lunch...oh, 4 times a week. We'd literally spend 5 hours chatting. Meet up for lunch, that would take us well into dinner. That friend. One of my friends, that I'm desperately missing right now.

The funny thing that stuck in my brain...was Christmas. Don't panic or anything. But it's only 60 days until Christmas. I know!!! Where has the time gone? And my friend, she wants to know...just what I want. Um, even I was stumped by that question.

For the most part, I'm super easy to shop for! Buy me a scarf, and I'm your BFF. Get me some candles, I'm over the moon. A pair of chandelier earrings, I might just jump up and down.

But my friend was looking for something more specific. I thought, and thought. Then I remembered what I had told this guy, just the other day. Anything from Stella & Dot, makes me happy! Heck, I sold it for years. Cause you know, someone had to pay for medical school. :)

I thought I'd make it even easier for my friends. Pick out a few favorites. And you know, get them started. Because, Christmas is just 60 days away. I'm not panicking yet. Are you? So let's get started...


First up, Serenity Stone Drops. In jade please. :) $49 for the pair. And I'd just love them so! You know me and my earrings.


Keeping with earring theme, how about these Charlize Teardrop Earrings. Priced at $34. I just adore the various shades of blue. :)


Next, well there are 2 things in this picture. The Soar Necklace, for $59. Yes, this is my favorite of the bunch. But don't forget about the Tree of Life Necklace. For $69. Another darling!


I'd adore the Chelsea Necklace. In gold. For $59. Isn't it just lovely? You could layer it with other necklaces. Or wear it alone.


One of the mot gorgeous necklaces that I've seen, and amazing values, is the Glint Flower CZ Necklace. $39 for years of happiness! Don't you think???


Another simple necklace that I just adore, is the Aura Coin Drop Necklace. Come on, it's gorgeous! And just $49. Even I'm tempted to buy this one. Because I could see myself wearing it, every single single day!!!


Another favorite of mine, is this Serenity Small Stone Pendent. It reminds me of my birthstone. And is just $49. Honestly, this necklace would make a nice "every day" necklace too. :)


Something a little more understated, Odette Infinity Necklace. For $39. I just adore the mix "of colors."


Along those same lines, is the Together Forever Necklace. For $59. I adore the mix of metals. The different sizes, also makes this necklace interesting. Oh, I think I'm in love!!!


But really, we NEED to talk about the Infinity Charm Necklace. A little pricey at $79. But it is adorable!!!


The last necklace, that I'll be talking about is, the With Love Necklace. For $69. I like it's simplicity. But amazing meaning. This is high on my list!!!

How about a a few bracelets? Over the last few months, I've really fallen in love with bracelets. Any kind really. But here are a few of my favorites. :)


How about something for $19? This Courage Bracelet is one of my favorites. I just adore the style. And the little charm.


The Hope Bracelet is one of my favorites. Really it is! It's $32. But my favorite quality, is the rose gold! I've been a fan of rose gold, since I was a wee one!!!


The Elizabeth Bracelet is just plain fun!!! With a little bit of sass. For $29. Don't you just love it too? I do!


I can't help but be a fan of the Luna Wrap Bracelet. For $89. I think this would be a nice piece to own. Something that goes with a lot of other jewelry. But the real star here, is the Sole Bracelet. For $39. I don't know what it is, I just adore it!!!

Don't think I'm a spoiled brat. Or that I'm begging my friend for anything. She asked me a question. And it got me thinking. Of a few things, that I would welcome into my life.

But in reality, I'd adore a scarf from Wal-Mart, or a pair of earrings from Target. Heck, a nice lunch would be nice too! Although, if this Mr. is reading...these earrings, this necklace, or this one, or this one, or even this bracelet...they'd love living with us too!!! ♥

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Movie Date Night

Since we got the good news yesterday, we've been going 100 MPH!!! Lots of things, that had been previously, "Put on the Back Burner," well have to get done. ASAP!!! So we're are busy again. I know. Life really never does stop.

My Guy, worked for a few hours today. Getting back "Into the Groove of Things." You know, until we start traveling tomorrow. I've been running around. Picking up things that we need, heading to the store, just making sure we'll have everything that we could possibly need.

But tonight, we decided to take it easy. Head to the "Lake House." Order in some food, from our favorite Japanese resturant. And watch a few good movies. Starting with The Help. One of my favorites. And surprisingly, one of My Guy's favorites too! Just don't tell anyone. ;)


We also watched The Secret Life of Bees. I'd never seen it. Neither had he. But we'd had it, in our collection, for a few years now. I'm a little embarrassed to admit this, but it was still sealed! I know...

Honestly, it was such a good movie. Super cute. Dakota Fanning, and Queen Latifah make the entire movie! How come I don't remember this movie? Like I never remember hearing about it. But somehow, we had it. :) Now I want to read the book. The books are always better, than the movies. Don't you think?

I don't know if this man shared my same love. Of this movie. He did fall asleep. But I'm thinking, that had more to do with him going back to work. It's been over 2 weeks, since he'd worked. So I'm OK with his napping. In fact, I finished 2 presents I was making. :) A crochet blanket. And a baby set. I even got about halfway, with a scarf and hat set.

We ended our movie watching with Cast Away. And I even got some packing down. As this guy, and our fur babies are now, fast asleep. We really enjoyed this quiet night at home. Very unusual for us. But something that we both, enjoyed so much! I think we need to do this more. You know, without one of us being hurt or sick. Just make a new "Movie Date Night."

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

The Truth...

The last few weeks have been challenging. Who am I kidding??? The last few months have. I've kept it pretty quiet. But in June, I suffered 2 concussions, in just a few days. It really did a number on me. By the end of July, I was still in a lot of pain. Having constant migraines. Being forced to take a temporary leave, from the hospital. Honestly, I really couldn't function.

A lot of this, has to do with my past. I was a cheerleader for 5 years. Competitive cheerleader. With a coach, that we nicknamed "Hitler." If you knew her, you'd know why. In my senior year, I was hurt. I suffered 10 concussions, in just 1 week. Everyone around me, could see that I was barely functioning. I'm almost positive, during that week, I spent more time in the nurse's office...than I did in my classes. :( But I tried to stay positive. Tried to hide my pain. My constant dizziness. And my constant nausea.

I'd convinced my parents, that I was OK. But also, begged my Dad to drive me to school. That entire week. And when it was time to head home, go to a game, or whatever other school activity I had...I'd ask a friend. Which was completely, out of the ordinary for me. By that Friday, I really was barely going.

I remember there being a school assembly. And just praying, that I'd make it through that hour. That included a dance performance, a cheer performance, and the other craziness that we were supposed to be doing. Sometime during our cheer performance, "That Girl," landed square on my head. And somehow, in that instance, I knew something was different.

I barely made it through that hour. In so much pain. Struggling to stand. The minute the gym cleared, my Dad was trying to figure out if I was OK. Other parents were arguing with my coach. By that night, I was on doctor's orders. No more cheering. Until I had healed. At least a 6 week period.

I remember the doctor, scolding my Dad. Who happened to be the one, that took me to the doctor. He explained how serious this was. How many concussions I'd had in just 1 week. And what my future would hold, if I didn't stop all of this. I was out for 6 weeks. No "ifs," "ands," or "buts" about it!

BUT, we were heading to Nationals. In just a few weeks. What was a girl to do? Oh, my coach was not pleased!!! Not at all. I couldn't dance, in her dance class. I couldn't workout, practice, or do anything at games. Pretty much, if it was something that challenged me physically, I couldn't do it. If it was too loud, I was to remove myself. If it was too chaotic, I was to be no part of it.

But it was Nationals. My coach was beyond angry. The trip was paid for. And it was my senior year. After about 10 days, I talked to my parents. If I continued to be benched, not be involved in anyway, in stunts, and just took it easy...they'd let me go.

This is the point, that most people would think, we're all crazy!!! We were. But I was determined. I became the official "Sign and Banner" girl, during our performance. Which included me doing 2 jumps, dancing, and a lot of "Crowd Involvement."

That trip was a bit miserable. We left in the wee hours of December 26. My uncle, had past away, the night before. But we were headed to Dallas. On a plane with a "broken wing." We didn't get far. Not just because of our plane, but because of the "unusual blizzard." Eventually, we made it to Dallas.

It got worse. There was lots of fighting. Freezing temps, blizzard conditions, our coach was so sick. It was just miserable. Our performance went OK. Nothing to write home about. And then, we were expected to spend 2 days at Six Flags. In the snow!!! Um, I couldn't even ride the rides. I was miserable.

As you can tell, I didn't take good care of myself. For that, I suffer today. I've had a handful of concussions in the last 10 years. Each one, is much more debilitating to me. I find myself suffering from migraines. Unable to do much. Out for much longer periods of time.

So when My Guy suffered a concussion in late August, I knew immediately. Partly due to my "Day Job." Partly due to my past. I was surprised, when the doctor "cleared" him. And just told him to take it easy.

Then, just a few weeks ago, he suffered another. The impact, was much harder. In all, he had 3 concussions, in just 6 weeks. And suddenly, our world came "Screeching to a Halt." This man wasn't going to be able to work. At least for 2 weeks. Maybe longer. We weren't sure.

This time, he was to not watch TV, play video games, or get on the computer. He had to stay away from too much action, noise, and busy-ness in general. Essentially, we were to make him rest. Monitor his headaches, and other symptoms.

Normally, it wouldn't be too bad. OK, yes it would. He's still a man, after all. One that doesn't like to appear weak. But after making him go to the doctor, being diagnosed, and realizing the seriousness of the situation...he knew he had to stop. Just as I had done, a few months ago.

Oh, but this time around, we had nearly 100 people in town. Just for 2 events. Besides the people that had paid to attend these events. 100 personal guests. Our friends understood. As did family. And this guy's co-workers. Did it make it any easier? Not really...

The two of us, found other ways to entertain ourselves. Lots of talking. Tons of napping. And just enjoying life in the "Slow Lane." Something we don't do. Not ever!!! Days would pass. He'd feel better. Insisting, that he could go back to work. But really, he couldn't. He couldn't even drive a car. Hello!?!?!?

Until today. Just now. After 2 days of doctors' appointments, tests, and "real life" situations. He's been officially cleared. And life, is apparently, back to normal. :) My Love, is healed!!!


The first week, was tough. But we learned so much about one another. The second week, was a bit more relaxing. We slept a lot. A LOT!!! The beginning of this week, we were just flat out anxious. Again, some of our best friends, were in town. To finally get some of those postponed events done.

It's been a challenge. Especially, if you knew the second part of this. My Dad hasn't been doing well either. Just before this round of concussions, I'd been home. To help my parents. My Dad is just struggling right now. I really do wish, that I could have spent more time with them. Just being there to help out. But I'm just glad, that I got to be there, for the short time, that I was. Helping were I could.

As you can tell, it's been a very chaotic, and hectic time. I've turned to God, more times, than I can possibly count. I'm grateful to God, that he is with us, when we need him most. Comforting us. Giving us strength.

With our news, just a little while ago, the chaos starts again. At least, until Thanksgiving. :) I need to run to the store, get packing, and wrap my head around all of this. It's just been such a tough time. And I pray, that the remainder of our year, has a little less "action." ♥

Sunday, October 21, 2012

Call the Midwife

It's unusual, and honestly weird, that we haven't traveled for a few weeks. Well, for work anyway. But it's given us a little more time to connect with the TV. I haven't decided if that's a good thing, or a bad thing. :)

One of my new favorite shows, has to be Call the Midwife. Have you seen it? It's on PBS. And honestly, I'm hooked! Partly because of their accents, partly because of the "time period," but mostly for the storylines!!!


I've got to give it to PBS, they've been coming up with some great shows lately! I'm also digging, Upstairs Downstairs. And of course Downton Abbey. ♥

Friday, October 19, 2012

A Few of My Favorite Things

A few days ago, My Guy and I headed to my parents' cabin. My Mom had asked me to go and "winterize" the place. Because, they just couldn't get out there. Being that this guy is taking a little break from work right now, totally played into this plan.

We headed to Albertson's for a few necessities. And then across the street, to Walgreen's. You know, before heading to the mountains. Where the nearest store, is over an hour away. We needed to stock up, on a few things. Nothing too nuts. As we were only going to be there, for 2 days.

But that didn't seem to bother, little 'ol me. :) First of all, I'm pretty sure, I bought out these little guys. My favorite candy. That I can't find anywhere else...


Why are they my favorite? I don't know. Probably because these are my favorite flavors. And I don't have to eat lemon candies. That I just don't like.


Oh, and I couldn't resist the "Beauty Section." Where I bought my new favorite nail polish. L'Oreal's "Eiffel For You." It looks pretty purple, or lavender, in this picture. But in reality, it's more of a grey color. A great neutral for Fall.


Oh, and of course my favorite purchase!!! Gooseberry Patch's Halloween magazine. It's loaded with tons of fun ideas for Halloween. Not just food people! Decorating ideas. And little gifts too! The price was a little high. But with a nice coupon, I only paid $4!!!

Yes, I've spent the last few days trying new recipes. Dreaming of all the things, I'm going to make this month. Writing out lists of supplies, I'll need. Oh, and enjoying my candy. Seriously people, why can't I find it at other stores? ♥

Thursday, October 4, 2012

Dreaming in Red...

Lately, I've been dreaming of rich, and romantic colors. Mostly, of red, purple, and blue. Not together. But as a base, for certain rooms. We are quite the "Fans of Color," around this home!

My bedroom, in my own home, is a deep purple. It's so incredibly rich. With a "Moroccan theme." And I adore it! Between the accessories, my favorite color, and all the linens...it makes me miss home. Just thinking of my room.

I took to Pinterest. To see what other people were cooking up. And I came across a lot of nice spaces. I just feel like, we need a room in our home, like this. I mean, this guy, has the most amazing "Poker Room." Painted a deep, burnt orange. So why can't I have a "Red Reading Room?"


I'm using this picture as inspiration. I actually ventured out the other day, and found a beautiful desk. Just perfect for this space. With some incredible lanterns, candles, and accessories. They just need to be cleaned up.

As far as a comfy chair, and sofa...we just ordered them. I found a style that I like. But had to have it ordered, in the color, and fabric, that I LOVE!!! Oh, and the same company, is re-upholstering an amazing chair I found. For the desk. :)

I've also set out, to find the perfect rug. And curtains. I guess I could sew the curtains. But I'm honestly, not "feeling it" right now. Never fear. I will be doing a tad bit of sewing. In the form of pillows. And possibly a throw.

Even that was quite a story. I'd been eyeing this fabric. But at $50+ a yard, was not going to buy it. I'd look at it. Think about. Run around, look at pillows. Price everything. Try to figure out, what was the best "Bang for My Buck." Ultimately, this guy had enough of my indecisiveness.

Rather, he knows me. And knows that if he doesn't buy the fabric, I'll continue like this...quite possibly, forever. So he ordered a "boat load" of fabric. I almost died, when I got home one day. And all this lush fabric, was waiting for me.

Speaking of, I might just find someone to make those drapes for me. I'm 100% positive, we have more than enough fabric. I just don't like making window treatments. I don't know why. I just don't like it.

But there you go. My next little project. Like I need one. Right? We already have a library. But there's this perfect little room, that was begging for some love. And I just had to go help her out. Besides, the lighting is perfect! And the views are breathtaking. It's the most perfect place, to read, write, and just "be."

People always ask me, "What do you do without little ones?" This my friends, is what "child-less couples" do. They work on their homes. They redecorate. They become DIY champs! Who knows, one day, we might repaint one of these rooms, to be a nursery. One day. Until then...well, I've got a "Red Baby" to tackle! ♥

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

I've Got to Get Creative...

I've got a few friends who are expecting. Some cutie patootie, babes they will be! My friends have asked me to do them a favor. Crochet them up some cute "photo props." Oh boy! I've got to make a little sock monkey outfit. And a few giraffe hats.

I don't have a pattern. Nor can I find one. But my friends, made sure to e-mail me the pictures, that they liked. I'm thinking, they are from Etsy. But I'm not sure.
 

Isn't this the cutest monkey, that you've ever seen? Boy, I'm in love!!! Now to figure out how to make this little outfit. I'm thinking, everything about this should be pretty easy. The hat looks like a basic, "ear flap hat." With a little face. The little diaper cover, shouldn't be too hard. I'm thinking, the toughest part of this, is going to be, figuring out those ears...


This giraffe seems a little more "complicated." Not by much. But still more thought, will have to go into it. I'm thinking, another basic "ear flap hat." The ears remind me of little leaves. It's those "horn type" things on top...that might be a bit of an issue.

Actually, I'm really excited about this. I think it should be fun. The monkey is for my good friend Dawn. And the giraffe, actually I need to make 2 of those. For my friend Amber. I work with her. And she's expecting twins in December. I better get moving! ♥

Monday, October 1, 2012

It's October!!!

If you know anything about me, know this. I LOVE to decorate for the holidays. LOVE IT!!! I'm pretty sure, I have my Auntie Chuchie to thank for that. I remember decorating, when I was little. We'd start in September, to decorate for Halloween. Days after Halloween, those decorations came down. And immediately, the Christmas decorations went up.

When I moved into my own home, well I became a "Decorating Diva." As my neighbors would call me. :) I immediately started a "Wreath Collection." And well, everyone knew what time of year it was, just by looking at my home.

These days, I still decorate. But I try to make it a little more "Homemade with Love." I take more care, with what I buy. And put up. I like to go with "color palettes." And I try to put up "Fall Decorations," in September. And then sprinkle in Halloween things in October. Then "edit" just a bit, and add in Thanksgiving items, in November.

With that being said, I'm always looking for a new idea. Something interesting. And a little sweet. I've already put up some orange lights. Not pumpkins, but orange twinkle lights. There might even be some purple ones in our kitchen. :) But I wanted to try a few new things. So like any blogger, I headed to Pinterest for some inspiration.


I found this adorable wreath. Something that I probably should have found a month ago! I like the use of burlap. And those flowers. Oh, those flowers!!! I think this would be one of those pieces, that can take you from September, to the end of November.

This wreath looks fairly easy to make. I'd start with making lots of orange flowers. Maybe in September have more red and orange. Then change the red to black, in October. And as we get into November, change the black to mustard. The simple sign inside, is another piece that can easily be exchanged. I've seen similar pieces at Hobby Lobby. :)


Now this wreath screams "Halloween" to me! I adore this wreath. The entire look of it. Traditional, in terms of a wreath. A bit trendy, with the zebra print bow. And just fun, with the folds. This my friends, is going to be my project for the week. :)


Now this, is a mantel! This is what I'm talking about, when I say, I work with a "color palette." Last year, we went with a black and white "themed" mantel. In our den. Honestly, it was my favorite.

I went out, and bought a bunch of decorations at a thrift store. You know, the old, ceramic type. And I painted them black and white. Some were just owls. Others were traditional pumpkins. It was definitely fun!

Decorating can be so easy, and fun. Even holiday decorating, can be elegant. And can reflect, on the decor of your home. It's October 1st. And I've already got pumpkins, on our dining room table. And a few "spooky decorations" on our entry table. This is just the beginning. Especially after searching through Pinterest for 2 hours! ♥