the girl & the cupcake

I absolutely cannot stop thinking about this room

2011-06-30T09:42:00.001-07:00

{via here, of course, although it looks like the designer was the homeowner, who has

a blog here}

I love seeing my dream headboard in a real room as opposed to the website (Serena and Lily Fillmore Nailhead). I think what draws me in are the oversized nailheads. The bigger the better in this case. Need to start saving so this beauty can get into my bedroom stat. Although I'm going to sadly have to pass on all that white bedding, thanks to two slobbering dogs who oddly have stinky tears that stain the bed (anyone else's dogs do this? It's SO hard to get out AND disgusting). Too bad, because white bedding is my very fave.

By the way, I'm starting to mattress shop as ours is over the hill. I'm thinking about the Heavenly Bed, especially since it's 30% off at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, a dirty little secret a friend clued me in to.

Tap tap tap

2011-06-02T12:35:00.001-07:00

Is this blog alive? Yes? Nope, not really. Three months into mommyhood mixed with working mommyhood, and I'm realizing that I'm pretty much the least organized and most frazzled person I know right now. Add in a trip to Miami with a 12 week old and my to-do list is looking freaking insane. Rest assured that I am failing miserably at many aspects of my life, not just this blog! If anyone has tips on how to be a little more calm and organized, please let me know.

But in the wee early hours of this morning, I was trying to catch up on my blog reading, and saw this article in the NY Times. Is this not the cattiest thing you've read in awhile? Not that they didn't make some excellent points, because they did, but wow! I do agree that Lonny pioneered the entire online shelter mag industry, and the rest are sort of copycats with varying success. But they really pitted everyone against each other. It was weird! That being said, I really did enjoy the article, because blogs can just be so rah-rah, and it's nice to hear the real stories behind it all.

What did you think?

Technical Difficulties

2011-05-17T10:31:00.000-07:00

So late one night, I tripped and spilled an entire glass of H2O on my MacBook. Whoopsie. It was about four years old anyway and not functioning well, so about 50% of me was not-so-secretly excited that I could now welcome myself to the year 2011 and buy this at last. So I skipped on in to the Genius Bar where the nice young man told me that I was just a hair under warranty and they could fix it. Happy. And sad. But it did save me $2000 and for that I'm grateful. Other than that, you can usually find me trying to rock the little man back to sleep so momma can get a break. It's extremely exciting. I did stop in to HomeGoods and find the motherlode of fabulous pillows for the guest room and to finish off the couch/chairs. I'm so excited to put it all together and show you a proper photo!

sweet baby

2011-05-09T14:03:00.000-07:00

Hi friends.

Please don't forget to never, ever buy a pet from a pet store. This sweet girl's story is the perfect example why.

I ask again for the millionth time, how can people be so cruel? Just last week, I read about a dog fighting ring being broken up about a mile from me. ONE MILE FROM ME!, and I couldn't help those poor babies.

Love,

the girl who has way too much Cavalier hair on her furniture

Rosie Pope

2011-05-05T20:38:00.000-07:00

Have I talked about how much I LOVE Rosie Pope's show? I knew about her (admittedly ridiculous) maternity concierge service, but I didn't know about her fashion line until I watched the show. I'm totally Andy Cohen's bitch and will watch anything he puts out, but I really love Rosie and her insane clients! Doesn't Rosie seem like the only good egg on Bravo at this point? Focus on the Vicki Gunvalsons and Jill Zarins and you'll see what I mean.

Baby

Shallow, out of control handbag obsession

Rosie Pope Diaper Bag

I know I already have a fabulous diaper bag and use it and love it every day, but surely, SURELY, a mama can have options? This one says, "I'm carrying Pampers, lipgloss, trash, Costco receipts, trash, but later I might go out for cocktails with the girls," yes?

This is what I tell myself so I can order it. This is where you come in. ENABLE. Thank you and good night!

Infomercial Fabulous

2011-05-02T06:55:00.000-07:00

Guess what happens when you're up before 6 AM (an hour formerly unknown to you as it was deemed unacceptable)? For the first time in your life, you get sucked into the phrase, "if you call within the next 7 minutes, we'll make your first payment of $29.95!" Whoa whoa what? That is SO nice of you, Tracy! Now where's my VISA???

I just traumatized my body and ordered the Tracy Anderson Metamorphosis today. Watch out world, I'm pretty sure I'll be looking like this very soon.

This is huge for me. I'm not sure I can do the Tracy Anderson (starvation) diet, because of nursing and all the caloric restriction. But if I can ever find the time, I really need to start the workouts. My body is, um, ravaged, to put it mildly. I've never been one to obsess about my body image, but something must be done. Help me, Tracy! Helllllllpppppp!

By the way, this is one of Tracy's opening lines on the informercial:

"There's nothing wrong with your body..."

Oh, I'm sorry. HAHAHAheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeehahahahahahohohohohohoho.

".....you just haven't been doing the right things with it."

Oh. Well, if you put it that way. That's true. I don't think that eating two Starbucks birthday cake cake pops a day with a side of Cheetos is helping my cause.

Anyone do Tracy Anderson yet? Seems like it's catching on lately. I'm excited to try, if I can find the time. Actually, I think that might be harder than the workouts!

Let me know what you think of it!

I know. I know.

2011-04-29T21:44:00.001-07:00

Are you all so sick of hearing about and seeing pictures of the royal wedding?

I'm not.

I don't know if I ever will. I come from a long line of royals-obsessed women and I don't see that ending anytime soon. Unfortunately, I was too dead tired to stay up and watch it last night, and today was a tepid dip back into the working world, so I'm just now getting to watch the glorious nuptials.

It's magical. I die for Kate's dress. I'm in love with their love story!

What a day!

toms

2011-04-21T14:53:00.000-07:00

How did I not know that TOMS had a cutie pie burlap pair?? I'm thinking I might return the red canvas I just bought and get these instead! Love TOMS but love anything burlap, rustic, and linen-y even more. You all know about how awesome this brand is, right? Old news, I'm sure. Yeah, I tear up every time I see this.

By the way. That old wives' tale about feet getting bigger after a pregnancy? Happened to this girl. Upsetting. Off I go to squeeze these old dogs into my formerly size 7 shoes.

GOOP Meets Do It Delicious

2011-04-19T19:16:00.000-07:00

Three thoughts about this video.

1. I am fascinated by Jessica Seinfeld's Posh Spice hairdo circa 2008.

2. I am fascinated by Jessica Seinfeld's teenage girl Valley Girl voice.

3. I spent the entire twelve minutes and thirty-two seconds figuring out who is most insufferable. Yep .... it's a tie.

I Heart L.A.

2011-04-19T19:10:00.001-07:00

Darling.

On One King's Lane today from my favorite paper goods store.

Amelia Jane

2011-04-15T14:08:00.000-07:00

Amelia Jane is a children's boutique located in Summerland, California. Summerland is a cutie pie little understated community just south of Santa Barbara. If you're going up the 101, it goes Summerland, Montecito, then Santa Barbara ... and Summerland definitely gets the least love, even from me. But that's rapidly changing since I found the most fantastically chic children's boutique there. A stone's throw from the ocean, it's cheerful and gorgeous and the decor is amazing. I met the owner while next door at the sister boutique, a home and garden store named Botanik. I can't believe that there was no interior designer in charge of the decor - it was all the owner, who definitely has an amazing eye. The two shops are housed side by side in old, renovated bungalows.

A sweet old vintage high chair - I'm so bummed I didn't buy one exactly like this the last time the flea market was in town.

So much Under the Nile goodness. This is the newborn section.

I think the most amazing feature of Amelia Jane are the light fixtures. They are completely unique and show stoppers.

The other feature I can't get enough are the amazing linens and window treatments in the shop. I love LOVE LOVE white painted rods and heavy creamy drapes - see how they're lined in a pattern?

Lovely. By the way, all these fabrics and dozens more are for sale by the yard. I might need to go back and check 'em out .... still no crib skirt in my house.

See the photos on the wall? They showcase the brilliant work of Meg Fish, a newborn photographer who just took Christian's photos last week ... and they are fabulous!

The boys' section in any baby boutique generally gets no love, but not at Amelia Jane! Wish I'd seen the Rikshaw Designs crib bedding - isn't it awesome?!

Rikshaw and custom fabric crib skirt.

Lots and lots of Serena and Lily - the salesgirl said this is one of the few places S&L has allowed a showroom sample of their rocker - it's gorgeous in person. I almost ordered this one. The bedding was SO pretty up close, too.

I always said I wanted one kid, but the girls' section definitely has me rethinking that. THOSE STOOLS.

More light fixture fabulousness!

The boys' section. So much amazing John Robshaw!! I loved this color scheme of red, blue, and navy.

One of my favorite features. I died when the owner told me that this was an actual outdoor bamboo bar cart that she fashioned and painted into a changing table. SO FABULOUS and cool in person.

Um, I want everything here for my kid's room. Awesomeness.

Hope you enjoyed the tour! I swear I come here once a week and it just keeps getting better and better!

Amelia Jane

2325 Lillie Avenue

Summerland, California

Monday-Saturday 10 - 5:30

Sunday 11 -4

Be Mine, Rachel

2011-04-13T20:22:00.000-07:00

Dear Rachel,

Please come live with me. I've wanted you for a long time. I'm sorry you haven't come to live with me yet. It's not your fault that I didn't understand scale and function in a room three years ago and I bought a couch at the Restoration Hardware outlet that is way too bleeping big for any room that isn't in a 5000 square foot home. It's also not your fault that I'm married a man who is sensible with money unlike me and thinks our current living room sofa is just fine the way it is.

I'm also sorry that your sisters, the Rachel chairs upholstered in truly beautiful Malino Rust slipcovers are lonely and waiting for you to arrive someday.

I promise my dogs will lay on you all day and make you feel comforted and loved and warm. I'll get you in the most gorgeous flax that BSC offers and try not to spill coffee on you too often.

Until I can convince the hubs that you should live with us and be our new cherished furni-child,

Julie

P.S. I'm going to attempt to pull myself together (this includes getting dressed and putting on makeup, in case you're curious) and truggin' it to my favorite new children's store, which is probably the loveliest shop I've ever seen. Promise I'll be back with pictures galore for you - it is full of gorgeous inspiration - stay tuned!

Beautiful

2011-03-30T10:59:00.000-07:00

My wedding photographer Jose Villa's book came out. I bet it's amazing....and it's on its way to my doorstep.

3 Weeks In

2011-03-28T13:16:00.001-07:00

Question for you. How in the WORLD do moms find the time to do anything for themselves? Because this girl swore it wouldn't happen to her. People probably laughed as I smugly said that I would be different.

But as I balanced the baby on my lap, my furkid trying to jump up and steal his paci, I tried in vain to read my favorite blogs today, while drinking coffee, unshowered, in the PJs I've worn for 2 days, I realized....

Um, yeah.

This is crazy and I didn't understand it before and it's hard.

But we did get out yesterday and get out to the Ojai Farmer's Market (my favorite), where we got berries and Knead baked goods (their breakfast sandwich is OUT OF THIS WORLD), and obviously I had this fantasy where I would run into Reese the day after her wedding while drinking coffee from here. Didn't see her, but I DID see Benjamin Bratt last year here. Enough about celebrities, sheesh. And aren't we dying to see Reese's wedding dress .... or ANY wedding details?!

Anyway, just popping in to say howdy! Till next time....

A Brand New Life

2011-03-14T11:07:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone! Baby Christian was born last week and I've been a wee bit occupied....

May be a bit of radio silence until I can get more on my feet and adjusted to this wonderful new life.

xoxo

Take it Off My Hands

2011-03-02T10:32:00.000-08:00

OK ... my collection is obnoxious - and this isn't even all! There's no way I'll EVER use all this fabric.

I forgot all about this amazing green zigzag. I NEED this in the nursery. Hmm. Where?

More Kelly being hoarded for eventual pillows. Where again I ask?

My most recent. Want to incorporate this onto my guest bed in maybe a bolster? To go with Ralph Lauren $10 pillows I just found at TJ Maxx? (another post for another day - TJ treated me well this week.)

Sorry, that was probably cruel. I'm not selling it all ... for now, anyway.

But some of it I just can't see myself using (even eventually), but it's just too gorgeous to have go to waste. Groundworks Kelly Wearstler Bengal Bazaar in Bronze (my favorite colorway). I have 2 yards. Retails for $176/yd. Asking $60.

This Carleton V fabric, I'm having a hard time finding great examples of. It's a very sturdy outdoor fabric. I have 2 yards of this. It's called Boca Grande. Asking $20/yd.

Eddie Ross did an amazing storefront window for them not too long ago, remember?

Leave a comment if you're interested in either of these!

Hola!

2011-03-01T12:12:00.000-08:00

Since this kid doesn't seem to want to move out - EVER - I'm still twiddling my thumbs, shopping way too much online, and what did I come across in my nearly thrice daily etsy checking sessions?

{Spanish Alphabet Set of Six}

Bibitty! I love you! You're doing Spanish now? I've owned the ubiquitous French alphabet poster for a few years now, just, uh ... waiting. It's been stored away to satisfy my Francophile heart. Hmm. So maybe I did want children? Foreshadowing?

But the guy I happen to be married to has roots in a Spanish-speaking family and we wanted to honor that side of this kid's heritage as well. I'm thinking I'll string them up something like this. And I love the pop of color it'll give.

For the Love of My Dogs

2011-02-25T15:03:00.000-08:00

This is where I found my two little loves on this cold and rainy day. If one gets on the dog bed in the office, the other gets jealous and has to cuddle up, too. Maybe I should bring up their bigger favorite from downstairs, but it gets a lot of love in the family room. My go-to for dog accessories, Home Goods, was pretty barren last time I visited, so I started looking around online for dog beds that get their (and my) approval.

Love the fact that this one is indestructible, guaranteed. And washable. When I was still in the naive puppy-preparation phase, I bought a dog bed that had to be dry cleaned .... by accident ... from a fancy little pet boutique. Obviously, it never sees the light of day in this house. The boys may be asking for this one next Christmas. They have amazing taste.

{Orvis ToughChew Dog's Nest}

And it comes in a few great, preppy fabrics that could all make their way into my house.

Ridiculous. But my boys would probably very much feel worthy of this kind of royal treatment.

{Wisteria Canine Chaise}

Dying over the British flag - very fitting for my Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Don't tell them that.

{Jonathan Adler}

Love this one.

{Ballard Rectangular Dog Bed}

I've seen this line in person a few times and I really love the colors. The price is right.

{Martha Stewart for PetSmart Bolster Dog Bed}

The very classic Lands' End canvas version, and monogrammable.

{Small Round Canvas Pet Bed & Cover}

This one's eco-friendly and gets stuffed with whatever you want, like old blankets.

{Silhouette Fill 'Er Up Bed}

{The Portico}

Happy puppy bed buying, dog lovers!

I can't let this opportunity pass without saying to please be careful where and how you acquire a dog. I'm a fan of rescue, obviously, but please NEVER EVER buy a dog from a pet store or backyard (hobby) breeder. The former is a barbaric industry in which dogs' lives are utterly horrific and miserable. The latter are bred by people who don't know what they are doing and contribute to the overpopulation of animals. There are so many wonderful pets that need homes. Here's a link to my favorite rescue group - I so wish I had a larger home so I could adopt a few "mill mamas" and other deserving lovelies. One day, in a bigger home, with a bigger yard, I'm going to become *that* crazy dog lady with 6 rescues.

Cavalier Rescue USA

The Instant Room

2011-02-25T09:01:00.000-08:00

How much do you love Shannon's idea for an Instant Room? It's so fun to see how she puts these together, as she's long been one of my very favorite bloggers. I particularly love the second one (already sold, from today) and how she paired Katana with that gorgeous Dwell Studio coral. It's right up my alley - I only wish I had a room to fit this set.

Yup, Still Here

2011-02-23T16:28:00.000-08:00

The days are long but time passes quickly....what?? I'm not supposed to be saying that BEFORE the kid's here? The air is thick with (ahem, FEAR) and anticipation and I think I'm going a little nutso. So nothing much has changed nursery-wise, but here's a little sneak peek into what hopefully will be in store (and set up! and styled!) in the future.

Painted the dresser BM Georgian Green, IKEA wooden lid and ceramic container (man, I wish I'd snapped more of these up before they disappeared from the store - they are SO great. Stupid me for assuming they were a permanent item), HomeGoods green bucket (have a few more of these waiting for eventual toys).

A $9 eBay paint-by-numbers.

Part of a globe collection on a $40 tiny marble side table I found last week....I was thrilled.

The non-diaper-y diaper bag from sweet friends...

Dwell sheet set, Jenny Lind cherry crib, and part of a rather unnecessarily large collection of BlaBla dolls.

Waiting to eventually be hung. A 10+ year old Pottery Barn mirror (probably will go above the changing table/dresser) and two new vintage framed elephant hankies. I'm in love with these. (etsy)

My favorite onesie ... so far, that is.

Realizing that this kid needs books for the bookshelf (which the hubs is painting now, by the way). Started off with my little brother's favorite, Robin Hood. I think he'll love to see it when he comes to visit.

Still thinking about crib skirt fabrics to mesh with the bumper and chair.

My favorite latest finds - has anyone seen pottery like this before? My favorite color is green, so I already knew I had to have them, but I also die for the polka dots. A mini pitcher, creamer, and tiny mug were all the antique store had, but I grabbed them all and am already storing them around the house for pens, trinkets, and Q-tips. The bottom is stamped Germany and the label from the antique store only said, "German Forest." So far, Google isn't giving me anything good.

Happy Wednesday, everyone!

38.5 Weeks

2011-02-18T19:44:00.000-08:00

And ..... we got nothin'. I'm not sure what's more terrifying, taking care of an infant .... or giving birth! I guess in the next few weeks, I'll be doing both? GAH! Someone send me some advice, quick.

Until then, I'm enjoying some rare rain and stormy weather and holing up in my PJs drinking tea and DEFINITELY getting a pedicure with my 5 year old niece tomorrow. Have a great weekend!

{rubie green}

Hello, Lover(s)

2011-02-15T08:28:00.001-08:00

Look what's coming to live with me soon (via UPS). Mama is very excited.

Los Angeles Numero Dos

2011-02-14T10:52:00.000-08:00

Continuing on ...

I stopped by one of my favorite L.A. spots, Brentwood Country Mart, to check out baby announcements at Sugar Paper, which is my favorite paper store of all time. I wish I'd gotten better pictures of it; the floor is painted pink complete with a little dutch door.

It's girly heaven - the custom section.

The ready-to-buy card section.

Banquettes to browse their custom designs.

Gorgeous letterpress - their specialty!

And flat printing - so hard to choose.

My favorite:

Moving on to Calypso Home, of course. Just around the corner.

Lots and lots of boho.

Purple was big at Calypso! And poufs up the wazoo.

Gorgeous, gorgeous rugs everywhere.

So much color.

My favorite.

Visit if you can; it's not to be missed when you're in town!

Brentwood Country Mart

225 26th Street

Santa Monica, CA

Los Angeles Shopping

2011-02-13T21:36:00.000-08:00

Truth be told, I'm not really into L.A. I like to pop in every now and then (there's less "popping in" and more "sitting in mind-numbing traffic") to hit my favorite spots, like here, here, here, here and here, but I'm not really a big city girl. I'm always glad to drive the hour back to my little beach town and just breathe in and out a little bit. But I'd always wanted to see Big Daddy's Antiques for myself, and I just picked a day and drove. Bad name, amazing place. It's not in the best section of town, but I have a really large (false) sense of security. I reasoned with myself that a drive to South Los Angeles was reasonable in the respect that I could finally pick up more of these chairs for the antique farmhouse table I recently acquired (not at Big Daddy's). Most things at BD are much out of my price range, I discovered, but it was full of eye candy and I wandered in awe for an hour. It's in a massive, freezing, slightly creepy warehouse and, I think, pretty hard to find. I drove past it about three times until I made the connection that maybe BD stood for Big Daddy's?

Yeah, I know. So subtle. Or perhaps I'm really that dense. I didn't even know where to start, there were so many good things and oddities to stare at.

In addition to their home goods, they have an amazing garden and outdoor section. I wish I had a larger yard, or ANY inclination to garden (I do not).

So cool! Why didn't I get one of these for dish soap?

Once inside, I was overwhelmed by chairs, chairs, to die for vintage chairs!

The perfect size. It was so petite. I want it for a corner in my bedroom.

An amazing antique chest - anyone know what its old function was?

Sawhorse desk! AAH! Want! But not at that price point. And I briefly considered calling back to inquire about those fabulous lamps .... not that I need lamps .... at all, actually ....

How amazing of a conversation piece would this be?

Always a fan of strange paintings .... and dogs, of course. Win win.

Killer chandys hanging from every nook and cranny.

Vintage light fixtures everywhere.

I kind of thought this would be amazing in the corner of a powder room, stacked with fluffy white towels.

Who needs a piece like this??

Cute stools, reminded me of an old schoolhouse.

In my world, the PERFECT vignette. To die for lamps and table. This is perfect. I wonder if I could DIY those shades.

Kind of into globes right now...no place to put them...

Antique bird cages everywhere, with actual birds living in them.

This was sold, and I'm insanely jealous of the lucky duck that gets to live with this. Probably my favorite piece I saw.

A fantastic old dental chair. Love.

I hope you enjoyed the Big Daddy's tour, and can stop by when and if you're in town. It's certainly worth the scary ride through South L.A. I bought nothing, but it was worth it for the inspiration alone. And I certainly hope I don't get in trouble for taking multiple photos of the space. I like to think I'm discreet, but I'm sure I'm anything but.

A Stamp I Can Love

2011-02-12T10:14:00.000-08:00

Writing thank you notes just got a whole lot more fun and meaningful this weekend! I can't stop smiling at these little faces.

Stylish Blogger Award!

2011-02-09T08:50:00.000-08:00

Yikes, first of all, I'm embarrassed it's taken me so long to do this, and secondly, I'm embarrassed because I hardly think of myself as a "stylish blogger!" But I was tagged by Casey at Loft & Cottage (whose blog I LOVE, by the way - go check it out!), and I gotta follow through here.

Here are the rules.....

I'm awarding you the "Stylish Blogger Award" for your inspiring and lovely blog! This award is passed on from blogger to blogger. I received the award from someone, and I'm passing the award to you. Part of this award is to write seven things about yourself (in your blog post) and pass this award to 15 other recently discovered blogs you think deserve this award too.

Oh, boy. I'm not sure that I can think of seven interesting things about myself that are actually fit to print, but here goes nothin'....

1. My day job is in healthcare and while I enjoy my job interacting with people and flexing the technical part of my brain (wait? do I have one?), I do wish that I'd taken a different career path a lot of days. My job is high-stress and it gets tiring. But I'm completely aware that the grass is always greener, and there's something to be said for a stable job, having a license to do something ... so for now, I just practice my design hobby on the side! Who knows what the future will bring.

2. I'm a lifelong vegetarian and can't imagine eating meat. Ick! Growing up, my parents did it for health reasons, but as I grew into a massive animal lover, I truly think I would have given up meat anyway. I'm really passionate about factory farming awareness, animal rescue, and can't believe more people don't get fired up about it!

3. I have an uncanny ability to spot any celebrity within a mile radius, and I've seen a ton. You can't hide from me.

4. I treat my dogs like children and get subsequently get made fun of. They also are allowed on all the furniture which I imagine has cost me lots of moolah over the years replacing things. Ay yi yi. What can I say, other than they're worth it.

5. Traveling is my biggest indulgence (well, and handbags...and fine dining...and...). Life isn't worth living unless you have a trip to look forward to! I'm a complete Francophile and always want to go to Paris again. I also loved Buenos Aires, can never get enough of the Big Island, and am forever thankful to my parents for giving us the gift of traveling the world as kids. As a kid, we went to China, Africa, Egypt, all over Europe, pretty much everywhere! They would pull us out of school and just go! Awesome.

6. I think I'm becoming more quiet and homebody-ish as time goes by. I love my friends and family dearly, but as I get older, find myself narrowing down my friend group and activities and craving spending time doing quiet things at home. I don't know if I would have said this about my very active and social self in the past, but it is what it is. I have to kind of force myself sometimes to get out there.

7. I have major split personality disorder when it comes to where I want to live. I love living in CA, yet fantasize about moving "home" to the Northwest, but can also see myself living in the South. Which brings me to the problem of where to put down roots. My life goal is to renovate our permanent dream home, but that can't really happen until we settle in a certain city. And therein lies the problem and causes us a LOT of grief about where to live (plus it's rather hard to indulge my design love without owning a home). One day, one day....

8. Addendum: The name for my blog came about because of my love for, obviously, cupcakes, but I really can't stand the name now. It's also a sort of play on another one of my favorite restaurants, The Girl and the Fig in Sonoma.

So who hasn't been tagged? It's been so long that I have no idea! So anyone who hasn't done it yet, go right ahead!

There's a Distinction

2011-02-07T08:59:00.000-08:00

Look everyone. There's a big dif between a design lover and a designer. I am definitely a design lover. And it's frustrating. The baby's room is probably the first room in a few years that I've needed to figure out from start to finish, and it's totally overwhelmed me, much to my surprise! I haven't even taken "before" pictures of the room yet, because, well, I'm lazy. It's a standard builder square, nothing interesting. But let me catch you up on where we are right now. And then maybe you can help? Yes? Because the secret I've been hiding is that it's not finished. It's barely even started. The baby's due in a month.

The original plan was to take a Jenny Lind and paint it a soft, soft vintage green or grey.

Benjamin Moore Soft Fern

Benjamin Moore Stone Harbor

But that fell by the wayside when I found a 50% off Jenny Lind in Cherry. I couldn't resist! Major deal, even though I am definitely not a *cough* cherry person.

So we set it up in the space and were surprised that it was kind of great in person. It adds a richness that I hadn't taken into account. I usually focus on whites, lots of creams and neutrals and soft linens and this was different for me. My husband pushed for leaving it, and I obliged. Then what?

I picked up a rug at World Market somewhere early on in the pregnancy, not knowing if it was a girl or boy yet, but the rug was that cute. Around that time, Julie of Milk and Honey Home talked about her little boy's room and she had just got it, too. By the way, this little boy room is TDF - I'm not even kidding, what a lucky little guy! So, sorry, this is the only photo I can find online of this rug, and I don't have the foggiest idea what it was called at the time, but that it sold out quick and I drove all over Southern California trying to snag one.

So that set the green, white, mahogany, cream theme. I had also been deeply in love with this pattern for a long time. From Premier Prints, their Best Friends line. I see a bolster pillow for the nursery chair or an ottoman covering when I can get my act together.

Original plan was to possibly do a crib skirt out of this fabric (or a masculine plaid, which I already had in my hoarded fabrics collection, a discontinued eBay Lulu DK, but I didn't have enough of it). Then the nausea/vomiting never stopped. I stopped caring about the nursery. I didn't buy a thing. Excuses, excuses, I know, but trust me - it wasn't pretty. And it kind of continues to this day - I'm tired, sick and have but a shred of my old self left in this body. I figure it's OK to finish this project in a few months .... right? Eh.

So taking the easy way out seemed like a good idea - no more custom bedding nonsense. I found the Dwell Organic Circles crib set (also now discontinued) on eBay for way more than half off. I had always loved the set in this classic Oeuf setting (which, of course, always makes me wish I'd gone the Oeuf direction, but felt it was a little too modern for me!).

Let me be honest here - I like it. I don't love it. And that's a problem for me. It fits with the room and looks nice, but it's not bam! true love. And true love is something I kind of need when it comes to decorating....it's on the crib for now, but I'm still waffling on it. Oh, and I picked up this Dwell crib sheet, which is also on the crib currently, and it IS true love.

Layla Grace also had a wonderful 25% upholstery sale a little while back, and I took the opportunity to snag this Lee Industries Slipped Chair, which I've wanted for oh, a long time.

In Glyn Linen Antique White. Because mama wants this chair in her room in a few years. Sorry kid.

Ottoman as yet undecided. I think a plushy leather pouf would be great in the room, but they're a little overdone and I'm not sure if I want to go there.

Just snagged locally from an antique dealer and waiting to be painted. (ha! As if there will ever be time to do this!)

I was thinking either a lovely creamy white with shined up handles, or maybe BM Camouflage. What do you think? And this is where I lose my focus .... I need to paint this baby's room. It's now what I affectionately like to refer to as "Pottery Barn Goldenrod circa 1999." Not hideous (and truthfully it doesn't even bother people who come over at all - but what do they know), but not OK. The rest of the house is either a really, really warm beige, or goldenrod. I have long loved Benjamin Moore Camouflage, but it's much too cool to mesh with the beige already on the majority of the walls, and I am not painting an entire rental. The intention was mainly to paint the rooms which really bothered me - our main living area, and the baby's room. After thinking about how much warm, neutral beige this house is, it occurred to me that I need white. Lots of cream and white to mellow out my brain. So I'm thinking that the baby's room will be somewhere in the White Dove family, to keep everything really simple and serene.

Or another soft, neutral white with just a wee bit more contrast. Any suggestions? That's my big holdup. Possibly wanting to paint the dresser in a slightly more contrasting white - perhaps Pale Oak?

Or just go all the way to Camouflage for much more contrast, but still a subtle look? I'm not sure how the Camo would look on a dresser, even in high gloss. What do you think?

What about Old Prairie?

I know, I know, so many neutrals that look exactly alike, so little time. Now you see why I can't make a decision? I'll wait to hear from someone out there and then I swear, I SWEAR, I am going to Premier Paints down the street and getting some cans of paint and just starting already. Once I measure everything out and see how much space I have left, this kid's going to need some book and toy shelving. Once I narrow down what I can fit in the room, the plan is to inject some fun color into the room in the form of Benjamin Moore Georgian Green, which is SUCH a fantastic, neutral, warm green.

Can't wait to use it on a big ol' piece of furniture.

And then obviously art, accesories, etc is a totally different conversation. I'm working on it.

And that's where I am so far. Please feel free to interject any comments or ideas - lord knows I need them badly!

Oh, no.

2011-02-07T08:49:00.001-08:00

But I'm gonna need it in this color.

I need a new handbag like I need a hole in my head, but if I DID want a hole in my head, this is the bag I would choose. As of today.

Here.

Mexico Rewind

2011-02-05T10:24:00.000-08:00

I hate the term "babymoon" (probably because friends have overused this for years - blech), but OK. Yeah. We did one. Back in November, and it was amazing. We chose something close with a short flight and we've done Hawaii to death, so Mexico it was! The original plan was London in the fall, but I'm so glad we didn't, because by this point I was getting so tired and worn out and don't think I couldn't have handled all the walking. We lazed, ate, and slept. My husband is a true California boy and surfs just about every other day, so he wanted to go to Punta Mita (near Puerto Vallarta) for the surf. I was more than happy to oblige! We stayed at the St. Regis Punta Mita, which will go down as probably the most fabulous hotel I have stayed in to date. It's around 2-3 years old - relatively undiscovered as of yet (compared to the Four Seasons next door, which is much more expensive, crowded, and not nearly as gorgeous!). The staff was amazing and we were just blown away by the quality and luxury and friendliness of the resort in general, but what really sealed the deal was the decor. It was beyond gorgeous and styled and cohesive and heavenly. If you're a visual person like I am (and you are, or you wouldn't be reading this blog!), I get such a major thrill out of being in beautiful surroundings. I'm happy anywhere I go, and love dive bars and taco shacks as much as the next person, but there's something to be said about being surrounded by beauty and good design. It feeds my soul.

Designed by Roy Azar, the theme of the hotel is lots and lots of white, driftwoods, rustic, soft sages, and loud pops of pink, which was SO fun. You'll see the pink everywhere you go in small ways. Lots of washed out, bleached wood; a little Swedish. You'll see what I'm talking about, but it was visually stunning around every corner.

High Gloss

2011-02-01T09:59:00.001-08:00

I'll admit that my expectations weren't sky-high (only due to the influx of online shelter magazines lately), but High Gloss really lives up. I just finished my first run-through and am running out to appointments/errands, etc, but I promise to come back and recap my favorites. It is SO good, ladies - job very, very, VERY well done!

I already know what my favorites were .... what did you enjoy the most?

Matchbook Magazine

2011-01-30T20:55:00.000-08:00

I know the blogosphere is blowing up regarding Rue no. 3 (which I haven't even gotten to this month) and the upcoming High Gloss (SO VERY EXCITED, by the way!), but Matchbook Magazine is a pretty cute read as well. I'm loving all these shelter magazine options thrown our way lately. Too much fun. And if there's food and fashion involved, I'm yours forever.

I especially enjoyed the 50 Classics for Your Closet feature. I agree with everything they featured, actually, and appreciated everything's wearability - the classic Fryes, L.L. Bean (I was just thinking of ordering one in red to replace my well-worn yellow from a fabulous friend!), a trench, Jack Rogers for summer...

It's pretty safe to say I've given up on trying to stray from my stripes and canvas loving preppy roots.

There's an Etsy Shop For Everything

2011-01-30T20:36:00.000-08:00

Just bolster pillows?

I'm in love! Seriously adorable.

{The Bolster Queens}

Also, I was completely rained out of the twice a year Ventura Flea today. So disappointing! This was my last chance to antique for awhile - looking for a dresser/changing table for the baby's room. We thought it would be fine in the light rain, but it soon became a downpour and all the vendors high-tailed it outta dodge. Add in my poor choice of Uggs (yep, soaked to the skin in a matter of minutes), and that's one miserable antiquing experience.

What a Funny Thing to Focus On

2011-01-23T08:33:00.000-08:00

NAIL HEAD!

But I'm obsessed. Admittedly obsessed. Because I love nail head anything. Anywhere.

I was perusing one of my very favorite (relatively new to me) designer's blogs last night, fellow Southern Californian Amy Meier, and came across well .... this ..... a nailhead seagrass rug. Amy explains the process about how she went about making it happen, and if I ever have hardwoods someday (fingers crossed!), this will definitely be a project that needs to happen.

And if at some point I have energy again after this baby is born (which is hard to imagine as I can barely walk up the stairs without feeling like a fat man), I'm pretty jazzed to finally construct an inspiration board a la Erika...

Bryn's version ...

{Who gives step by step directions on how to DIY the board yourself here. Perfect!}

Even Fran got in on the action, posting her inspiration board last week. OK, now I REALLY want to make my nail head corkboard - now where to find the time? Grrr.....

Side note: I'm not sure if I mentioned this, but we moved last week. Freakin' moved. Our place was much too small to house two adults (one with a massive shopping habit for decor and handbags and boots), two dogs who think they own the place, and a baby with all his stuff. So we moved. And while I'm rather grossed out by the Pottery Barn circa 1999 goldenrod walls for now (which will obviously be changed), it's nice to be able to breathe in a little more space. But. Yeah. Moving at this stage in the game is not ideal. Bear with me!

New Emersonmade

2011-01-16T18:59:00.000-08:00

Whoa! Have you guys checked out the new offerings from Emersonmade? I die! I want it all. All. All.

Such fabulous style, Emerson has. I can't stand it!

Simple Things

2011-01-12T13:51:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I'm not quite sure why I have a hard time describing my style. Especially when I take a peek at all the fashion inspirations I save over time ... and then it becomes very, very clear.

The funny thing is, I hardly wear any black. Thanks, pups.

But I can see that this has become a loss in my life.

{via the Sartorialist}

Get out of here.

2011-01-05T22:54:00.001-08:00

Why, yes, that would be an Anna Wintour doll + Grace Coddington doll at Barney's. I wonder if the Grace doll hates standing so close to Anna. And I love the look on her face. Positively withering. Poor Grace.

I swear I've seen The September Issue at least five times. It never, ever gets old.

{via here & here}

In the market for a slipper chair?

2011-01-04T14:28:00.000-08:00

Browsing through World Market today, I saw this sweet little slipper chair and stopped in my tracks. It truly looks much more expensive in person than its price reflects. And I'm not normally a huge fan of the quality or looks of World Market furniture.

I seriously love it - even the feet are adorable in person! It would look so great in a pair in a living or family room paired with a light couch, or even in a large walk-in closet or master.

Heather Chadduck of Southern Living

2010-12-31T10:47:00.000-08:00

So my hearting of Southern Living is well documented. I've come to peace with the fact that I will never live in the South, but truthfully, I'm a die-hard West Coaster (California by way of Washington .... doesn't get more Westie than that!). That doesn't mean I can't subscribe to SL and pretend while I flip pages. So that's what I do. Even if my grandmother is an Alabaman. Anyway, fantasy over..... So the January 2011 issue is good. Very good. And it led me to discover Heather Chadduck, style director of Southern Living, previously unknown to me. I started googling around and let me say, I heart her work. It's superb and lovely and I want it all!

The story behind the article is that Heather fell in love with this Victoria Hagan fabric and tried to use it as sparingly as possible to get the most bang for her buck. Plus, anyone who lets their dogs on the bed is fine by me.

It's a little hard to see in the photos, but you can see that Heather has painted the walls soft white with a grey-blue ceiling. Such a great idea.

Baskets, baskets, I love baskets. An interesting tidbit that stood out to me is that the curtains are from IKEA. Who knew? I love when designers mix it up like that!

Are you dying over how she used the fabric on the desk?

Shannon had a favorite of Heather's on The Designer's Attic this morning that I missed out on - such a huge bummer. It would have looked lovely in my rather scary hoarded fabrics collection!

See the full story here online, or in the January 2011 issue of Southern Living.

And a very happy New Year to all my bloggy friends! Here's to 2011 and all of you!

It'd Been Awhile

2010-12-29T19:41:00.001-08:00

... since a HomeGoods post made it back onto the blog. Don't get me wrong - I'm there way, way, way too much normally, but I've actually been good about not overdoing it lately. My little townhome overfloweth. You know how it goes. And honestly, I've been a little underwhelmed as of late with the selection there the past few months. Today I uncovered some great stuff, though!

Super cute and cheap round side tables.

Various adorable pineapple lamps that were hard to resist (sorry for the weird iPhone color on the first one). I often see vintage versions on eBay for hundreds.

$49.99 for two ginormous pillows not unlike the fabled Anthropologie soft grey fringed featured at the Canary Hotel in Santa Barbara (one of my favorite spots in the city, btw!). I have the original version still on my bed, but these are very close to the real thing, and I know I've had tons of friends ask me where I got them!

This will only be interesting to dog lovers, but I'm constantly blown away by the fabulousness of dog beds at HG. Who knew??

Seriously?!! Lookie what I came home with. You KNOW I love this fabric. I've seen it everywhere, most recently on dog beds at Furbish. It looks like Jamie doesn't currently have a dog bed in that print currently in the shop, though. I may even still do something nursery-ish with it. I've been a little lazy in that regard, if you haven't already guessed that was the way things are going around here. It's not the exact print from Premier Prints, but it's pretty darn close.

Poufs, poufs, and more poufs.

Expensive looking, marble-y bath accessories.

Reminds me of the St. Regis Punta Mita and I stopped dead in my tracks. (need to recap this fabulous trip)

Cute shelving.

Mother of pearl mirrors. The bigger one came home with me.

Well. Until next time, HG.

If Only....

2010-12-28T22:20:00.001-08:00

... I wanted to pay the full non-sale price at Calypso (ever, which I do not) for this baby blue ikat shift. However, I do see a trip to the Brentwood Country Mart to see it in person sometime soon. Just lookin', no buyin' .... promise.

Moving onto food (as usual), I could also go for a Sunshine Veggie Burger at Barney's while there.

My Babies' Big Day

2010-12-22T09:15:00.000-08:00

They were featured, at last, in their very own oil painting. It really was only a matter of time.

Here is the original - I asked them to take out the superfluous legs. (Realizing only after the fact that the baby on the left's tongue is sticking out in a strange way...)

{photo by the fabulous Raya Carlisle, who has a wonderful blog here}

Words cannot describe how much I love it. It's a custom, 5'7" portrait by Paul Ferney, as part of his limited edition, too-good-to-be-true Commission Project, and arrived JUST in time for Christmas. I will treasure this till the end of time.

Maybe a liiiiiitle Christmas Spirit....

2010-12-22T09:07:00.000-08:00

{a vintage Japanese flocked Christmas tree & a framed copy of our first holiday card from Sugar Paper in Brentwood}

{my favorite holiday appetizer - cranberry brie purses}

{my handmade succulent Christmas wreath - too delicate to hang!)

{somehow this little guy made it onto my side table...}

{an old-ish Anthropologie wreath I splurged on once upon a time - completely worth it!}

{white poinsettias from my church's youth group, essential candy, and maybe an impulse purchase at Starbucks?}

{one of my babies asked to be included in this post, naturally}

Christmas Fail

2010-12-19T21:54:00.001-08:00

{etsy seller lapomme}

So remember how I said I spray painted a fabulous Target cranberry wreath metallic gold?

Yeah. It's torentially raining in Southern California for the past three days, and I awoke to find my back door streamed with gold and the sad, sad wreath had melted and sagged. Somehow, this sums up my holiday season. And I laughed. Hard. I was planning on taking a picture to showcase the hilarity of my failed Christmas craft, but my husband threw it away before I got a chance.

Other than that, I've been decidedly Scroogey this year in regards to Christmas decor, cooking, and effort in general. We've been doing so much rearranging for the baby in our already too-small house (another story for another day, but it's bringing me a LOT of stress in and of itself) that the thought of bringing in a Christmas tree and ornaments was too much for me to bear. Add in a resurgence of some morning sickness and just flat-out exhaustion. I'm very bah humbug and it shows. This is the first year in forever that I haven't gone all out for my Christmas decorating, but I think it saved me a little bit of stress during an already very busy, stressful time.

I have to say I never understood when people talked about how exhausting the holiday season can be, but this year I've been feeling it, and it makes me sad. And somehow guilty, which is silly. And then I feel worse when I read my favorite blogs and see how lovely people's homes are decorated. Must learn to let go is the lesson I need to glean - and I somehow knew that others out there must be feeling the same way. Right?

I must have a little bit of Christmas spirit left in me, because I just sent out the last of my holiday cards and have definitely been in the mood to buy presents ... for myself. What else is new?

I'm heading out tomorrow for the last of the Christmas present haul. Godspeed to me.

A Piece of Amanda Talley

2010-12-12T09:33:00.000-08:00

Let's face it, Amanda Talley is a favorite in the blogosphere and I'd say that we all kind of want in on a literal piece of the action. I know I do. So I was thrilled to see that Amanda's studio has affordable options for the holidays - check them out here! Adorable for gifts (and myself, of course).

See full-size, recent available works, here.

Stuck in My Head

2010-12-08T16:13:00.000-08:00

We all have homes that stick in our subconscious for months (years?) at a time and they majorly influence our design decisions. It's hard for me to put a finger on what it is about this Birmingham home that I've long loved (published several times, most notably in Cottage Living), but it's very far up there in defining my style. It is/was Anne Turner Carroll's home, and it probably sold long ago. More info here.

How could we forget this remodeled kitchen? I certainly never will!

Among other gorgeous rooms, of course.

Even from a small, grainy MLS photo, I have dreamt about this nursery, especially since we're having a boy.

Anyway, getting to my point. But I knew a little eye candy in the meantime wouldn't hurt anyone....

This photo has always intrigued me. What is THAT?? ... woven basket thingy? I would say to myself. Pretty genius to cover up unslightly stone with a different focal point altogether. I'd never seen anything like it. And, naturally, the obsession started. You know how it goes. I needed one. You do the same thing, I know you do.

{images via Blueprint Bliss}

But where to look? No clue. Until a month or so ago, I stumbled upon the woven thingy (as it was until then known to me) at my favorite local antique warehouse/showroom. I stared. It was up high. I couldn't reach. I didn't even take a picture with my iPhone, which is very unlike me. It looked huge and unwieldy. My husband would hate it (please, as if this would normally stop me). I asked just what it was. Luckily, there are people in the world who make it their business to know this type of thing, and the dealer explained to me that it was a tobacco basket. Apparently, these were extremely common in the South to display tobacco when taken to market. Well, I never. And this weird history made me want it even worse. You know what happened....

I walked out of the store. Went back a week later after hemming and hawing (the cardinal sin of antiquing), and it was gone. Very sad. I'll continue to scour eBay and/or antique markets for one, I suppose. Yet another reminder that if I lived in the South, my home would be much more fabulous.

{images via Shopping Candy}

Kathryn Ireland on the Skirted Roundtable

2010-12-07T14:07:00.000-08:00

I really thought I had subscribed to The Skirted Roundtable long ago, but I guess I had not. Thank goodness I just checked for the first time this afternoon, because none other than Kathryn Ireland is chatting with the ladies today. Los Angeles designer and author of my very favorite design books, Creating a Home. I am utterly obsessed (and always have been) with the restoration of this Ojai ranch and the subsequent sale to Reese Witherspoon. It's a truly magnificent residence.

Tar-jay for Christmas

2010-12-06T17:27:00.000-08:00

I found myself again today, browsing aimlessly through Target, but this time, I restrained myself. Well, a little bit. A few things I'm obsessed with lately that made their way into my cart ....

First of all, this candle is one of my favorite things I've bought lately. I've already burned through one in 4 days and need to stock up before my local store runs out. I will knock people over for this, I would say. We don't do the real tree thing, so this is very important to my psyche to smell real pine.

This little pillow might not look like much, but it was super Christmas-y cute in person. Would have gotten it if the decor in my home could even slightly handle a shot of red. It can't.

Along with this preppy throw.

And I attempted a little craftiness a few days ago and spray painted a cheapy wreath ...

.... with a little metallic gold.

It's a very gilded Christmas, a la Urban Grace. (photo coming later!)

And then, unrelated to Christmas (but that's OK, right?). I felt that I needed a pair of ankle boots. But there was no way I was spending an arm and a leg on a trendy item. Thanks again, Target. You always know what to do.

{Mossimo Kaiala Leather Ankle Boots, here}

Trust me, they're cuter in person. I know that here they look a little plastic, but they're rustic and better-looking in person and inject that perfect dose of country chic. At least in my opinion.

Happy Almost Christmas!

The Last One To Know

2010-12-01T17:41:00.001-08:00

Did everyone on the planet know that Wisteria actually has a brick and mortar outlet location ..... albeit, very, very far from me, but it's there, waiting. In Dallas. Whatever. This is of no help to me.

I can only imagine the holiday decor up for grabs ...

Hmm. I need that yummy plush grey armchair. And the coffee table.

Blue and white. Blue and white.

Lovely.

I finished up my Christmas shopping for family last night. For my dad, this went in my cart:

I think he'll really like it at his office. And for mom, a set of cocktail napkins that will stand the test of time, I think.

Don't Be Judgin'

2010-11-29T07:33:00.001-08:00

But sometimes .... sometimes, this pregnancy girl needs a little pep in her step. I was a wee bit addicted before the pregnancy, and luckily enough, morning sickness pretty much killed any and all urges for coffee (or really, anything that I put in my mouth). But people. 6.5 months in and I'm beginning to miss my ritual. And that means an occasional stop by Peet's or Simone's or even the 'Bucks. I haven't exactly made coffee in my good ol' wedding gift Cuisinart for months upon months (which has lasted over four years - go little guy!). But since no one else in my family drinks coffee, and I tire of washing the pot once or twice a day, I asked for this really affordable new gadget for my birthday. No clean-up, no coffee pot. Genius. I thought about getting this or this, but I try to be environmentally friendly, and I couldn't bear the thought of throwing away little wasted cups after each drink. Plus, let's be honest ... it looks great on my counter. Very industrial chic ;)

And while we're on the topic of coffee, may I just proclaim my unexpected love for Via right now. Their Cinnamon Flavored Coffee is seriously so, so good. It's my go-to at work. I put about half the powder into a full cup of water (no sugar but please add soy) to still get the coffee taste, but not all of the caffeine. It's REALLY cinnamon-y. You'll love.

How Did My Favorite Designers Do Thanksgiving?

2010-11-27T10:02:00.000-08:00

Well, they did fabulously, that's for sure. I was away in Northern California for Thanksgiving, and missed doing this post BEFORE, um, Thanksgiving, but the inspiration still is there .... for next year. Maybe life will calm down someday and I can actually host a lovely, orderly, decorated Thanksgiving at my casa. Until then, I'll keep collecting inspiration photos.

Martha always knows what to do. I replicated this idea last year at my parents' home.

Of course, Erika at Urban Grace can never do any wrong as far as I'm concerned. And I'm pretty much fainting over the (slightly unfinished) kitchen and dining room in the background of this photo shoot. The brick? Concrete counters? The perfect artwork with fabulous sconces? Everything?! Yeah. I want and need to live in this home. What a dream. I hope she gives out more details later.

Did I forget to mention the open shelving? Die. And I'm so getting metallic spray paint and transforming ugly wreaths of years past.

Perfection .... I cannot stand it.

{As featured online at the Urban Grace blog and HGTV.}

Another favorite, Lauren Liess, decked out her table in equally effortless chic style, but this time done much more rustic and country. It's amazing when people have the ability to so effortlessly design, isn't it?

Which one is more your taste? It's really a toss-up for me, but I'm such a sucker for metallic anything, that I'm going to go with option #1 in this case. But it was a tough one!

Another One Bites the Dust

2010-11-22T09:16:00.001-08:00

My life is over! I may never be the same! My favorite local lunch place is CLOSING! Don't you absolutely HATE it when this happens? Lunch and dinner at Main Course California are no more. They're not closing altogether; just their bistro, in order to focus on their catering business. I hope this gamble pays off for them, because I'm guessing they gained many followers from their lunch crowd. Hmm.

So long, BLTAs without the B (yes, their sandwiches were THAT good that a die-hard vegetarian finds the LTA blog-worthy).

My sister-in-law and I plan to keep frequenting their cooking classes, so at least there's that. I will definitely be at the New Year's Hors d'oeuvres & Drinks class in December.

But until then, a moment of silence for that long lost, perfect LTA.

The Perfect Kitchen

2010-11-22T08:57:00.001-08:00

The Perfect Kitchen comes in many different forms for me. Sometimes I love soft, muted greys and blues on the cabinetry. Sometimes I love butcher block. Sometimes I want to move into Ina Garten's barn. But today, I want what I usually always want. White, carrera, open shelving, and a simplicity that can't be denied. I love that this one doesn't feature high-end anything, really. It's lovely, clean and could work in pretty much any area of the country.

{via Rustic Rooster}

Etsy Thursday

2010-11-18T09:59:00.000-08:00

I've long adored dimdi's etsy shop. She creates the most gorgeous watercolors of precious animals. I'm sure the fact that she paints from Italy (sigh) has a wee little bit to do with it. I think I may snap these little guys up today and get them framed.

Here and here.

The Royal Bling

2010-11-16T19:25:00.000-08:00

When I would visit my grandparents house every Christmas, my nerdy Coke bottle glasses-wearing self used to sneak into my grandma's bedroom and pull out all the trashy royal gossip "biographies" she loved to collect. She and I definitely shared the royal obsession, in fact I give her allllllll the credit. She had all the best books and magazines and I ate them up. Remember this shocker of a book?

I may need to read this again for old time's sake ... you know, in honor of my grandmother. Yeah, that's it.

So I can't help but get a little choked up at this latest royal engagement. I've always been more of a Harry fan (ahem), but these two are pretty adorable. I love that he gave Kate his mother's ring. I can't think of anything more beautiful or meaningful.

I think Kate is perfection. I love that her signature color is royal blue. She's stunning in a very unaffected way.

I'm thrilled for the royal wedding-to-be!

Backing Up To Halloween

2010-11-15T11:41:00.000-08:00

Uh ... rewinding the seasons! But I couldn't let this pass. I made my favorite petite dessert recipe and used adorable Martha (who else?) tags and mini cupcake holders. Big hit, and the colors of the cheesecake were perfect for Halloween!

Giada's Individual Orange & Chocolate Cheesecakes

It's November.....

2010-11-11T08:12:00.001-08:00

And that means I'm busting out the holiday candles, thinking about our Christmas tree and decor, but mostly .... I'm drinking a lot of (caffeine free) Trader Joe's new Candy Cane Green Tea. Mmm. Highly recommend.

A Nursery Sneak Peek

2010-10-23T09:39:00.001-07:00

Well, friends, this is all I've got.

I don't know how, or where, or why (well, yes, I do - perhaps an homage to my first two furry boys?), but I know I love it - and darn it, it will be featured prominently in the little guy's nursery.

Stay tuned!

Coastal Living 2010 Ultimate Beach House

2010-10-19T11:36:00.000-07:00

Coastal Living chose Seabrook, Washington for its 2010 Ultimate Beach House. Seabrook is a relatively new beachfront vacation destination and is master planned. I can't wait to visit this new little town someday when visiting family. It was so refreshing to see a little attention brought to the gorgeous Northwest beach cities. I'm totally in love with the home - it is even better than I imagined it would be! And if you hurry, you still have a chance to tour the home. It's open to the public until October 31.

Welcome to the beach house!

The front of the home. 3200 square feet, ocean front, stunning views.

Great room

I'm in deep love with the slipped twin chairs.

The gorgeous dining room. I love the bright white with reclaimed wood table and simple pendant.

The modern/rustic kitchen.

And this might just be my ideal pantry.

Main level powder room ...

The back porch. It would be probably be too chilly most of the year to truly be comfortable, but I would bundle up with a cup of coffee and ride it out. That view.

I can't get over the details. The soft plaid is so perfect.

This would make my surfer husband VERY happy - his very own outdoor shower.

The perfect master bedroom meets the perfect master bath.

So dreamy, I can't stand it. I want the whole thing. Bamboo, antiqued mirrors, industrial lighting. All the things I love.

Add in vintage artwork and tufted seating - perfection.

Loving the soft orange upholstered twin headboards ... thinking about this in a future boy's room.

Guest bath, which subtly mirrors the more luxurious master.

For a video tour and more information, click here.

The home is for sale, asking price: $1,975,000. Click here for the listing.

The Perfect Master Bath

2010-10-18T09:59:00.000-07:00

A sneak peek from the Coastal Living 2010 Ultimate Beach House. I'm dying. More tomorrow.

Monday Showers

2010-10-18T09:27:00.001-07:00

.... of the baby and rain kind. It's been raining and cloudy around my little beach town for the past few days (and apparently for the next few days), and this girl could not be happier. It finally feels like fall, no matter how fleeting!

And how yummy does this food look from a super cute shower thrown by Lizzy Writes? I must be feeling better this morning, because I want to dig in immediately ....

I can't get enough of the little pumpkin dipping bowl.

It's Here!

2010-10-14T10:22:00.000-07:00

Remember this post? Well, I couldn't stop myself. About a week later, I dialed up Willow in Rosemary Beach, FL, and asked about the necklace I had been obsessing about in a rather unhealthy way.

So I entered into a lengthy email conversation with the girls at Willow soon after, hemming and hawing, when I was told that it took a few months for the artist to make (who sometimes would abruptly decide to stop making them altogether). This scared me greatly, and an order was placed. Duh! What else was I supposed to do?

{not a wonderful picture - I really need a macro lens}

It finally arrived last week! And I haven't taken it off since (and gotten countless compliments already). Which is not the best course of action according to my husband .... since my brand new LOVE necklace was supposed to be my birthday present come November. Whoops ... I guess that is a testament to how much I love it .... and Willow!

Thank you again, Celia!

The Forgotten

2010-10-13T09:55:00.000-07:00

I don't know why I always seem to forget about Wisteria. Duh. It's right there, waiting for me, with amazing deals to be had. So when I saw this post by Amy about her adorable new prints, I knew I had to get over there and check things out.

About five minutes later, these egg prints were in my cart. Thanks, Amy, for the handy reminder about Wisteria! On super sale, by the way.

It's a Boy!

2010-10-13T08:14:00.000-07:00

Well, this could explain my long, long, uninspired absence from this blog - I'm 5 months pregnant with my first child, and it's a boy! I suffered from mind-blowing morning sickness (well, it was mind-blowing to me, anyway...) and was MIA from life in general for quite some time. I feel like I might be hobbling around the corner to the better side, and, well, I need to plan for this kid now. And that includes cutie patootie stylish little boy nurseries, which will be rather interesting to execute in our small townhouse, taking over my former guest room/office. Still not sure how this is going to work out, but I will give it my best!

{via Angie Hranowsky}

The Man Can Do No Wrong

2010-10-05T16:49:00.001-07:00

When I got married in the summer of 2006 in Santa Barbara, one photographer I interviewed stuck out above everyone else. He was an up and coming, adorable film photographer based out of the little town of Solvang, CA. I came across his website, spoke over the phone, and I hired him without even meeting! It was probably one of the best decisions I have ever made, because the genius photographer's name was Jose Villa.

These days Jose is quite big time and his success is beyond well-deserved. You follow his blog, right? If you're not, you are sorely missing out. Jose photographs some of the most chic weddings and parties in the world with his signature dreamy, soft photography that I can never get enough of.

Yep...I'm still in love 4.5 years later. With my photographer AND my husband.

cheese & california

2010-09-30T20:01:00.000-07:00

I think it's time to throw a party, and nothing says party like a California (or state of your choice, of course) cutting board...

{get it here}

The one(s) that got away

2010-09-27T20:54:00.001-07:00

I seem to have a problem of not buying goodies at the flea market, swearing I'll come back later to ponder and/or buy, then getting too hot and tired to wander back through the maze. This is a large problem, because this time, I missed out on this gorgeous 1920s piece.

Oh, so gorgeous. I envisioned new knobs, a little TLC, and our TV on top. I can't believe I let it go. The owner was asking $125. I want to cry.

Then there was this fabulous wicker chair, which I know I would never actually have the guts to display. Maybe if we were blessed with a larger yard, this would be killer under a large, shady tree. So L.A. chic. I don't remember what he was asking, but it was the same dealer.

I became distracted by 80s Barbies at a junky table. No one in particular listened as I squealed every time I uncovered one that I owned (and let me tell you, I pretty much owned the entire Barbie collection from 1986-1991 thanks to my grandmother who understood my obsession).

And I ran across a booth with the most spectacularly curated French rustic antiques. I went nuts and bought way too much from Jennifer! The daintiest, most delicate and sparkly tiny purses, paired with vintage silhouettes.

I loved this view with the spools. And I most definitely snagged the antique Italian rose tree. Not sure where it's going yet.

I loved these gold handmade Christmas trees, and came home with a few.

Visit The Old Painted Cottage to see more of her style. She doesn't have a store, but will ship direct.

Later in the weekend, we braved the increasing temps and attended a wonderfully simple, rustic California wedding. Weddings like these make me really wish I had kept my own a little more simple...

It's so easy to have maximum style on a not-so-huge budget, and the whole vibe was so relaxed and FUN. I love that. It made me rethink my own home and style and how neutrals, succulents, linen, and WHITE are sometimes the most stunning options of all. I had a lot to ponder design-wise, and still do....

Probably the hottest day I have seen at the Channel Islands harbor, my favorite local walking spot. Usually cool, gray, and windy, I fried in the heat on this particular day. I normally hate the heat with a passion, but I have to say this dramatic change in weather really amped me up! (But not for too long.)

{All photos brought to you by my trusty iPhone}

Never Too Early for Holiday Cards

2010-09-27T17:20:00.000-07:00

So ... maybe I'm browsing around already.

I know Minted hasn't come out with its 2010 holiday designs yet, but I was bored and took a look at the 2009 versions ... just HOW did I miss this one last year?

It's so perfect for my two little furry kids that I can't stand it.

Bad, horrible, awful blogger

2010-09-22T14:44:00.000-07:00

Ugh! What is wrong with me and why haven't I been blogging? I have to say that I've been feeling rather uninspired lately (with all aspects of life) and my desire for pretty things, cooking, design, etc. has been rather pathetic. I certainly hope I get my mojo back, or this blog will die a slow, cold death. I did go on a lovely marathon troll through town replenishing my Halloween decor stash (clearly I needed to increase my stock of my favorite Martha Stewart Halloween glitter kit) as I start my Halloween decorating insanely early this year. After I stuffed my cart full of Cafe du Monde beignet mix, mini bottles of St. Supery, Pocky, and weird Indian snack mixes at World Market, I spotted this out of the corner of my eye:

{Provence Dining Table, $649.99}

Yes, I absolutely realize that there is the possibility of this table looking too cheap. And I'm afraid of that. But it still caught my eye, since the reality of owning an antique French farmhouse table is out of my budget in a big way, and I think it would look gorgeous with my existing slipped IKEA dining chairs. I wondered if I could jazz it up in the right space with the right accessories and fool the eye?

Anyway, just food for thought. I'm not in the market as my place is already packed to the gills!

Farmers Markets make me happy

2010-09-08T15:45:00.000-07:00

And I'm lucky to have some pretty great ones around these parts. Usually, I go to the farmer's market down by the harbor on Sunday mornings, but there is a local Wednesday afternoon market that I finally had the chance to stop by today. I love supporting locals and their organic produce and goodies. I usually get my bread from a sweet little lady every Sunday and most of our veggies.

Just a few things I picked up today.