Comfy Living Rooms

I am drawn to a more "comfortable" style living room than a "formal" one.  I think it is much more inviting and gets a lot more use.  Comfy couches, fluffy pillows, and great art adds to this feel.  

Magazine Storage

We all probably have way to many magazines and have a hard time parting with them.  After seeing these nice ideas by Annetshus, I am motivated to organize my collection.  Whether using a stand, wire basket, old suitcase or hanging boxes, I think we can all find a way to store our collection.  Do you have any creative ideas?

{photos via Annetshus.com}

Cayman's in Norman

I spent the weekend at The University of Oklahoma with my son and daughter for "Mom's weekend" and we went shopping at one of our favorite boutiques, Cayman's.

Obviously, I was drawn to the home decor and shoes, but they also sell apparel, designer jewelry and cosmetics.  It is a wonderful store and if you are ever in Norman I suggest you stop in.  They also have a great selection for men. 

{photos taken by me with iphone}

DIY - Easy Centerpieces

Straight-edged glass vases are great and affordable containers that can be transformed into a one of a kind vase for your next event.  I found these fun ideas at Project Wedding as well as how to make them yourself.  I am looking forward to creating a custom centerpiece at our next party!

{photos via Project Wedding}

Etsy Friday Favorites

I'd like to share with you three unique Etsy shops that I've loved viewing this week.  I found some creative frilly pillowcases, sweet jewelry and and fun felt objects that I just love.  Enjoy!

I knew when I found these pretty pillowcases by Rosehip I had to share them because they are so frilly and sweet.  I can just see them in a beach house or yummy guest room.  They are 100% cotton and precious.

Stacy Winters photography and handmade good shop has darling jewelry, vintage prints, cards, etc...  She enjoys capturing images of nature, vintage items, and creatures.  This Sleepy Labie necklace is mounted onto a repurposed wooden scrabble tile, and sealed in a glasslike finish.  Lovely.

Fairyfolk is an amazing store with wonderful creations from wool.  The acorns are all natural and eco friendly ranging in size from 1 to 1/5 inches long.   These would make wonderful Easter gifts or decorations.  Take a peek at all her wonderful creations. 

{photos via each shop}

Laura Ashley Furnishings Spring/Summer

I came across the online Spring & Summer 2010 catalogue for Laura Ashley Home and found several pieces that I loved.  Because I love blues, cream, and ocean breezes,  all of these pictures made me happy.  The collection is full of furniture, lamps, china, accessories and textiles worth seeing.  

Couples Get Away

After living in Northern California for a few years, I have always loved traveling back to Carmel.  It's location, beauty and charm put this city at the top of my "favorite" list.  I'm looking forward to another visit with great friends to celebrate special birthdays in April.

We are going to be staying at the Cypress Inn which is located in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea, surrounded by galleries, restaurants, and just blocks from the beautiful beach.  Dogs and cats are welcome guests if desired and the Inn is owned by Doris Day and Dennis LeVett.  We can hardly wait to get there!

Casual Attire

I definitely prefer wearing active wear vs. business attire and am loving the looks at Lucy.  They have such cute styles and are very well made.   The pieces seem to last forever and can be worn for lots of different activities.  Whether working out or running errands these outfits will fit right in.  Many, many more to see on their website!  Enjoy your day.

{photos via Lucy}

Rustic Charm

I fell in love with the rustic charm this Houston home has and could definitely duplicate everything into my own home and be so happy.  The powder room mirror is behind an antique Italian window grille, and the old stone sink has dings and splotches which add character.  The crusty blue shutters add just enough color to this space and also creates privacy.  All of the warm tones of reclaimed wood and stone give the patio and indoor bar a cozy, inviting feeling.  Simple and classic.

{Photos via House Beautiful magazine April, 2010: scanned by me}

Spring is in the air

It may not exactly feel like the first day of Spring today, but it is officially here!  Have a wonderful weekend.


{photos via AOL}

Etsy Friday Favorite

I love finding new, creative Etsy stores through blogs and searching on Etsy and would like to share another one of my favorites.  These are such unique, personalized, custom pet ID tags and more by Make Your Dog Smile.  Made out of various metals and extremely sturdy.

 {photos from Make Your Dog Smile via Etsy it up blog}

Wes and Tag are looking forward to their new tag

Sunny Day

I have been awfully lazy this week with the kids at home.  Sleeping in, shopping and eating out has put me behind.  I hope to do some catching up and then sit outside and enjoy the beautiful, sunshine we are having.

{photos via photobucket}

Curb Appeal

Most of you know,  or will figure out, that I love flowers, gardening and creating a welcome and inviting entrance to a home.  The simple and colorful landscaping caught my eye on these two homes and are motivating me to start some spring planting.  Have a wonderful day.

{photos via HGTV}

St. Patrick's Day Cupcakes

Whether you are celebrating St. Patrick's Day or not, you will love these adorable cupcake ideas that I found on Jeanne Benedict's blog.   I chose my 3 favorite, but there are more.  Enjoy!!

St. Patrick's Day Mint Chocolate Chip Cupcakes

Beer Cupcake

St. Patrick's Day Leprechaun Cupcake

{photos via Jeanne Benedict}

Inspiring Blues and Pinks

Soft, hazy colors and natural textures give home a breezy elegance.

Homeowners and designers Harriet Maxwell Macdonald and Andrew Corrie had the oak floors sanded and unfinished then sanded and whitewashed the pine-plank walls.  You'll never guess the name of their adorable whippet, Blue!

{photos scanned by me via April 2010, House Beautiful magazine}