a very curious cookie

why don't we have this on American television?

2012-02-08T23:49:00.000-05:00

From a British quiz show, QI (quite interesting). A memorable moment:

living room textiles

2012-02-07T20:12:00.002-05:00

I got my pillows today. Overall I'm pleased but only one side has the featured fabric. Seriously!!!! It drives me bananas because the dog may puke, or I'll spill my coffee on them, and I would have appreciated having the option to flip them over, in case a cleaning would not erase all evidence of wrong doing.

Aeeenyhoops, I put together a little fabric combo that I think will make the living room a bright cheery space-pretty important as the first living space I see when I make my way into the apartment.

Pumpkin is taking my photobombing pledge to heart and has inserted himself in my textile tableau. To the left is the Savafieh pillow, then a blue and white plaid I bought at a local fabric store, followed by a Robert Allen (ooooo look at me dropping names) ikat, a rosy outdoor fabric I bought nearly two years ago, to the left again a navy pleated pillow cover bought at West Elm on clearance (of course). I like the sharp, geometric punch it provides in comparison to the bright, soft and happy prints and shapes of the other textiles. Then there's the crazy pants floral/fruity print. I'm still formulating how to incorporate all the textiles, and may continue to edit, but so far, I am pleased. Here's the ensemble from a different angle.

On a side note: I just found the sock that Pumpkin stole from the laundry hamper (bottom left).

P.S. While I was putting this post together, I may have volunteered to work for a Senate candidate...

Superbowl Sunday! Hands down, no contest winner.

2012-02-05T11:24:00.000-05:00

To my mind, there are mainly two entertainment options today:

The Superbowl, featuring Tom Brady and all his Bradiness,

or Animal Planet's Puppy Bowl.

Which do you think I'll be watching? Let me give you a hint.....

and another....

and another.

Good luck to the Pats!

Tang

2012-02-03T22:45:00.000-05:00

Source: matchbookmag.com via Frances on Pinterest

The Greenbrier Resort (photo: Cooper Carras for Matchbook Feb. 2012)

Is it just me?

I can see it.

to the dogs

2012-02-01T05:44:00.000-05:00

I love this wall of dog art. Gives me an idea for an art project with Pumpkin.

If he was a more willing model.

At least he's not one of these.

Hipster puppies!

No one is safe!

birds on the brain

2012-01-30T22:05:00.000-05:00

I love big bird artwork (of the non-Sesame Street variety, of course). Ever since I saw these large scale bird paintings in/on Lonny (which I can no longer find), I have had a fascination with them.

You get a better appreciation of these creatures, and can make a nice arrangement categorically, by color scheme, or maybe grouped by geographic region, in the area where you currently live, or from an area that has some other significance to you. The collection below are a little too menacing for me, being very raptor-like. But I very much like the idea. Simple, with big but pleasing impact.

Noted and filed away for later.

Designs by Katie Ridder via Chinoiserie Chic.

living room before (warning - ugggly)

2012-01-29T20:35:00.000-05:00

Hello! I have finally decided to tackle the living room, and (deep breath), share the ugly secret I've hidden for years.

(Deep breath) My living has wall paneling!!!!! (oh the shame, the embarrassment, the burden, the onus, the ugggliness). The worst part is, it's not even real wall paneling. It's wallpaper of wall paneling. Major ugh! Major ugh-ley! Over the years, contemplating what to do with it has presented aesthetic, fiscal, pragmatic and yes even moral dilemmas. I approached the landlady about it and she, convinced it was real wood (!!!) did not want it to be painted over. I tried to incorporate it into a retro looking scheme, but a) everyone and their monkey's uncle is looking for mid century furniture making it unaffordable b) it's not really my style and c) even decorated poop stinks. I also investigated removable wallpaper, but it will come at a cost, and I'm a renter...so while it's still an option, I'm putting it on the back burner for now. Plus, my "practical skills" don't rank very high, so I may make a mess of the whole thing. Fabric presents similar problems. My sister in-law suggested I just paint over it, and that my land lady will never find out until I move out or she dies (the latter after which I am assuming she won't care). I dunno, I'm not like that. If I ask permission to change something I do not own, I tend to respect people's wishes rather than indulge mine. So in terms of a very fundamental component to the entire scheme, I'm at a crossroads.

Let's move on to the basic though incompletely executed scheme of the before living room. It is essentially, cape or coastal or nautically inspired.

Upon entering the apartment on the second floor, you walk directly into the living room. A chest of drawers faces the entrance. (yeah I know, I warned you)

To the right is a set of French doors that lead into a sunroom, that I made my office area. Remember this? It got a new rug. Yes that is a floor lamp in the foreground for which I have not found the right shade.

To the right again, is a marble top bistro table I have had forever, with a West Elm Jonathan Adler looking lamp.

Then of course, the slipcovered Ektorp Ikea loveseat. It may look small in scale for the space, but it's the only size I can get up the stairs. Instead of a coffee table I went with an ottoman, so people could put their feet up; I was going for a casual beachy feel.

My digital camera is on its last leg, so please excuse the spots. My favorite feature of the room are these windows. In the spring, summer and most of the fall months, the leaves of the maple tree outside provide lots of privacy. I love looking outside at the sky when the sun is setting, and have even observed falling stars from these windows, so I'm hesitant in trying to over dress them.

To the right again, is a small metal bookcase that someone left behind in the attic.

The original color was old school industrial green, but I painted it black with celadon green shelves.

The chair is a big one and a half chair I bought as a floor sample at Crate&Barrel. I had a new slipcover made in white twill. I threw on a small rug from Pier One Imports, because a) the cushions have lost a lot of their plummage and are quite whimpy now and b) I have a dog.

My plan for the chair is to move it to the office, and get some new foam back and seat cushions.

And with that we are at the door we came in from. I missed an entire wall, which is open to the dining room, and a whole other kettle of fish.

Thanks for joining me on the tour of the living room. I'm excited to get started on redecorating it. I hope the wall paneling didn't give you nightmares or do any permanent damage to your eyes.

Cheers! xo

meh

2012-01-24T22:38:00.000-05:00

Couldn't find anything I liked for the right price at today's OKL-John Robshaw sale, so I went over to Fab.com and got a set of Pink ladies from Safavieh for about sixty bucks.

In other news, I am expecting the coffee table to arrive on Feb 1st. Expect some pictures!!!!!

ohmugosh

2012-01-23T19:55:00.000-05:00

OKL is having a John Robshaw sale tomorrow! I know I have stated that you shouldn't pay more than $40 for a pillow, but I'm just jonesing for one of his throw pills. Maybe I'll get lucky and one I really like will be marked down enough! I'll enter my credentials tonight in order to shave some time off my shopping frenzy and to make me less obvious when the sale starts and I'm at my desk at work (eesh)! I just hope I don't break into a sweat.

OK, here's what I have my eye on and their respective retail prices (for covers only! throw in the insert for criminy's sake!):

Ikat Herringbone Bolster Pillow $175 (hamana hamana)

Vintage Strip Coral (loving the shots of coralness) $130

Water (pretty in its own Robshaw way) $150 for the Euro....maybe a bit too much in a Euro

I'm hoping for some major markdowns!

or should I just cheap it out and go for the pillows on sale at West Elm? Or some really inexpensive hand blocked pillow covers?

As a textilophile, I'd love to own a Robshaw, but it would sit on my dumb Ikea sofa.

We shall see how tomorrow pans out!

Happy new year!

ebay score: lamp

2012-01-20T19:48:00.000-05:00

$40 (includes shipping) for this lamp:

Sure, it's got some chips here and there,

but I was really charmed by it color and shape. I'll try to hide these little flaws with either some magic marker or nail polish.

See below for description:

Up for auction this Vintage Mid-Century Modern Ceramic/Pottery Table Lamp signed what looks like somebody's name followed by "Creative Corp MLXVII". Lovely colors in semi-gloss glaze of Blue and Greens. There is one flaw in the glaze and one small chip.....see the pics. No harp but the electrics are in good condition and work fine. It measures 18.75" to top of the socket and 6.75" across the base.

I think it promises to be the right piece as I try to put together a living room that is a hybrid of this

and this.

Maybe, we'll see....

Have a super weekend, all! It's supposed to snow on Saturday in New England.

anything for a friend!

2012-01-19T22:15:00.000-05:00

It seems like our much beloved do-gooder dog-friend Ricochet posted this pic of herself and dog sibling Rina on her Facebook page a while ago, but without any copyright or links!

Now, it's all over the internet, which is ok by them, but their goal is to raise awareness. So, the pic is out there without the inspiring story of this wonderful dog, and her positive message isn't being disseminated. Personally, her story inspires me when I start getting down in the dumps!

So, as per her request, I am sharing this picture & her Facebook link so people can still enjoy it, AND we can raise awareness for humans/animals at the same time.

Thank you!

2

2012-01-18T19:20:00.000-05:00

Happy birthday my little Pum Pum.

today is for

2012-01-16T11:50:00.000-05:00

contemplating how our differences should not mandate our rights.

a little funny after last night's game

2012-01-15T07:52:00.000-05:00

ha ha! please don't take offense--I like the bit about Brady and Belichick.

Go Pats, or whatever....

smorgastorta

2012-01-12T22:51:00.000-05:00

Gotta love those Swedes! Why has it taken me almost 45 years to discover a thing called a smörgåstårta? Quick reference here. Cake and a sandwich in one. Is this heaven? No, it's a sandwich.

If you're not into the swedish palate (i.e. smoked herring) just think of the variations. I immediately thought of a cobb salad smörgåstårta. Can't wait to try it out. I am concerned, though, that I would eat the whole thing. What will my guests think?

Behold, the smorgality:

Thank you, Panini Happy.

dog geeking

2012-01-08T17:52:00.000-05:00

One of the groups I follow on Facebook posted this little video, the song and story of which I love!

The dog is a Blue Merle Working Sheepdog named Levi, trained by Mary Ray. If you have any interest you can look up quite a few of her performances at Crufts and other places on youtube. I just marvel at how she has trained her dogs (however she tends to work with breeds who are receptive to training). But no matter! I think the moral of the story (or video) is your dog doesn't need to win ribbons to be number one in your heart.

ask and you shall receive

2012-01-07T18:14:00.000-05:00

Flash back to merely a few days ago when I was pining over a particular coffee table. (I learned they are called opium tables, by the way.)

Then this post on Reichel Broussard's blog Copy Cat Chic (isn't she amazing?) I'm taking measurements but it pretty much looks like we have a winner!

The lines are simple enough with little embellishment but the form still evocative of its artistic and cultural origin. Details on the living room to follow!

another look at Michael S. Smith: asian elements

2012-01-05T22:54:00.000-05:00

As a follow up to a previous post, I decided to take another look at some spaces designed by Michael S. Smith. Don't you find that at times you look at images and just gloss over the details, then maybe some slight change in your sensibilities occurs and BAM! motifs start to emerge. I have a talent for being astounded (a little too late) by the obvious so bear with me.

I am just noticing and falling in love by the way with the asian accents in his designs. Check out this neat pagoda console/shelf. Quite a lovely and unique piece in perfect scale!

The lovely artwork, that doesn't look like it belongs in a cheesy Chinese take out joint (with all proper respects to cheesy Chinese take out joints -- we got nothing but love for our independently owned local businesses!!!).

And what is particularly striking a cord with me these days for some reason are these coffee tables. I love that little inverted cabriole leg!

I'm thinking of getting one for my living room to replace a slipcovered ottoman.

The lines are simple enough (modern but classic) to sidestep a kind of themeyness, with just enough sculptural quality to enhance visual interest (not boring like most coffee tables in my opinion). A perfect balance for yours truly.

Functional, simple and beautiful.

And looking back on one of my previous posts, BAM! there it is again!

I'm on the hunt folks!

All images, House Boo

Happy New Year: Photo Bomb - animal edition

2012-01-03T22:06:00.000-05:00

I'm feeling cheeky these days, so let's enjoy these photobombs, digitally enhanced or not.

A dog who is fully confident of his place in the family. Doesn't he look content?

I dedicate this to Court

Why I can never be a cat person.

If you play with fire.....

Cute.

So this is my goal for 2012 friends. I plan to photobomb as many of the photos taken by the throngs of Asian, Latin American and European tourists who get in my way when I try to cross through the Yard on my way to work. Hopefully I will be able to get Pumpkin in as many shots as possible. And to be more obvious I plan to wear brightly colored hats.

It's good to have goals.

vanilla

2011-12-29T16:17:00.000-05:00

I'm a fan of the bland, or as they say, neutrals....

But would these little accents appropriately placed around the home be nice little shots of oomph?

All, Apartment Therapy.

between now and then

2011-12-18T19:41:00.000-05:00

There is so much to do.

But just let me wish

A Merry Christmas to you.

John Robshaw pillows for the living room

2011-12-13T23:13:00.000-05:00

i like this living room

2011-12-12T22:12:00.001-05:00

Lynn Morgan New Canaan CT farm house

I like the blues, the natural materials and textures, understated lines and patterns. All a backdrop to the living that happens within. It also looks clean and orderly, unfussy. But still welcoming and comfortable.

when I saw a picture of this bedroom

2011-12-10T23:45:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to give the designer a hug (Michael S Smith, House Beautiful)

It's so right.

why we suck

2011-12-05T20:24:00.000-05:00

Bon Appetit!

note to self

2011-12-04T14:00:00.000-05:00

Bemz

Ikea furniture slipcover options.

It's nice to have options.

oh the shame

2011-12-01T21:17:00.000-05:00

Even though I roll my eyes at some of the prices for items offered on One King's Lane, I succumbed to temptation and made some purchases-albeit modest in scale and price.

I received the table above, and was quite happy with the look of it, and how it fit into the guest room. However, the materials are quite flimsy, on an Ikea level...maybe even flimsier in some cases. Thankfully I don't invite Keith Richard types for stay overs.

I poufed. Not sure where this will go but I was having a lousy week and I impulse shopped. I know, I suck.

But I did get a pair of Staffordshire Dogs for $40 on ebay when they sold for $200+ on OKL. Did I mention that I got $13 worth of shampoo for less than $2 after coupons at CVS as well....

Riveting, I know.

kitchen furniture

2011-11-27T12:23:00.000-05:00

Love the lower cabinets in this kitchen. Somehow looks like repurposed furniture, but very warm and homey and not at all out of a big box. Not too fond of the top half; looks like behind the counter at a cafe.

Sometimes I wish I had the money to actually own my home.

skirts

2011-11-26T10:01:00.000-05:00

Hello! Saturday morning and like clockwork a migraine sets in.....this is the 4th Saturday morning in a row; what gives? I've got laundry to do....

Anyway, lately I've been thinking about round table skirts, I guess ever since I saw this image posted on Facebook by HB (likely)

While my guess is that a skirted rectangular console would be practical for hiding storage, with exceptions of course, I don't think the area underneath round tables is ideal for storage (with exceptions: sorry I can't find the post with Mr. Higgins' nap area under the table, Court).

So how do you feel about a round skirted table? Too fussy? Traditional? Overly formal? Impractical? Dust bunny magnet? Pretty? Feminine? A way to introduce texture, pattern or another element of interest in a room?

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T07:43:00.000-05:00

It's become a tradition:

Gobble gobble

CCC inspiration: brown toile and black and white stripes

2011-11-22T22:03:00.001-05:00

Rachel over at Copy Cat Chic showed off her pre-Thanksgiving table to us this week.

I loved the combination of black and white stripes and brown transferware, the contrast of a very graphic pattern with a softer more tonal one; to me it brings together two different worlds for those of us who like to plant one foot in each.

I found images of rooms where the injection of either element would suit my preferences better. So here we are:

Lovely room, but I would have injected a bit of this pattern...

maybe in a throw pillow. And I think a brown accent table instead of the black one.

Another charming room:

But how awesome would it look with this rug:

Or even this one

or this chair:

I like this together:

Again, just my take on already pretty spaces.

I prefer a superb owl to the superbowl*

2011-11-19T23:08:00.000-05:00

*The title of this post is taken from one of the comments on YouTube.

I just thought it would be nice to look at the inspiration for a very popular motif in current decor. Aren't they incredible?

wish I had $500

2011-11-17T00:24:00.001-05:00

so I can buy this Safavieh Emmett Settee currently on sale at Gilt Home (in spite of its description)

Enliven your space with this eye-catching settee. The stripes make a statement that can easily be paired with solids and even patterns—as long as all the colors are similar.

Just sell the darn goods and dispense with the advice, k?

Pretty pretty settee

Brown taupe stripiness

more white Christmas inspirations

2011-11-16T19:32:00.000-05:00

Some more inspiring and pretty images to add to the theme:

The following two from Country living:

I have a tray I bought in Paris, that can feature some tiny baubles.

The guest bedroom can handle a stocking treatment. Hopefully Pumpkin won't think they're bait!

From the Idea Room, obviously! Seems simple enough to accomplish!

This is from Sharyn Carlson's Living Artfully. She said it is easy enough to do but I am craft challenged so we will see.

From styles-files.com. Maybe finding a way to incorporate white or silver birch bark?

I'll post as I plan; however in the interim, I have some devious planning to undertake which may result in a civil matter! he he he..... ahem

white christmas decorating

2011-11-14T20:37:00.001-05:00

I hate Xmas, but I plan to decorate my way out of a sucky one this year. I love white and gold combos. So simple, yet festive and still serene.

And lookit....

I can still imagine myself conking out after eating too much on that sofa. It's not overly fussy is what I'm saying.

From Style at Home

I bought a rug

2011-11-12T10:00:00.000-05:00

for my living room, and it is a patterned rug (Persian inspired I suppose).

I wonder what the approaches are to arranging furniture around......

or on it.

*Bonus question: does a more muted palette influence your approach?

Have a great weekend everyone!!!!!!! xoxo

It feels weird to say "Happy".....

2011-11-11T10:46:00.000-05:00

Veterans day. But I'll say thank you and ohmygod I could never do what you do, and I think those you protect should take care of you in any way they/we can during and after your service.

orangey coral sofas and geode

2011-11-10T22:47:00.000-05:00

Just some options I have been looking at as a follow up to my last post.....

and I like this too.

ever look at a guy and think.....

2011-11-09T20:39:00.000-05:00

you know, he's really not my type, but I can't stop staring.....

That's how I feel about this room.

Maybe it's the orangey coral sofa, the crazy legs on that chaise, that big ole lamp, the assymetrical yet balanced composition, those hurricanes I initially mistook for etagieres, the artwork, hmmmm......thinking, thinking, processing......

Maybe one day we will return....

from House Beautiful, of course

Office Holiday Party

2011-11-03T08:05:00.000-04:00

The invitations have started to come in, and this is what I would wear.

Office Holiday Party by fmeale featuring chiffon tops

Jacques Vert chiffon top, £34
Vivienne Westwood Anglomania green jacket, £395
Lanvin pleated skirt, $1,990
Lanvin high heels, $1,050
Marc by Marc Jacobs magnetic clutch, $330
Carolee LUX gold bangle, $125
EFFY COLLECTION diamond earrings, $1,000

Hope you had a Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T20:48:00.001-04:00

The orignal plans had to be modified in scale and details, but everyone got it, and enjoyed. Cue Handel's water music (yes I know, wrong monarch but I prefer it).

The loot

The scene

The king is seated

The king looks on eagerly

The king observes his subjects approach with loosened up chemise

The king wonders where all that spooky music is coming from

Good night.

P.S. This is what I won from West Paw Design via For the Love of Dog Blog for this whole sha-bang. Thank you!

P.S.S. Which was shared with Pumpkin's dog friends.

it's going to snow this weekend

2011-10-29T11:50:00.000-04:00

provisions:

here

and here

FIRED!

2011-10-26T19:46:00.000-04:00

No, I have not been fired, but recent events have confirmed what I have being unwilling to accept for the longest time...from FIRED!, an Annabelle Gurwitch documentary....

Take heed of people disguised as your friends.

Preview of Halloween

2011-10-24T20:15:00.000-04:00

Some red satin

Gold fringe

(no I am not opening up a bordello!)

Some of this (faux of course)

Some gold paint

To imprint these

On here

Where kiddies will see

Me (that's not me, but I'll be wearing the headgear)

Handing out this

From this (kinda)

On behalf of his beneficence.

In case you're thinking of having me committed, my friends are one step ahead of you.

Wish me luck!

stage mom

2011-10-19T10:49:00.000-04:00

2nd place ain't bad:

http://lifeanddog.com/fotofriday/

And winning swag ain't bad either:
http://dogblog.dogster.com/2011/10/19/and-the-winner-of-the-west-paw-howl-o-ween-contest-is/

Which means, I got some planning to do for Halloween. Photos will follow.

Designers talk purple (via Elle Decor)

2011-10-18T19:22:00.000-04:00

sampled from here.

The designer: Alex Papachristidis
His thoughts: “Purple is divine as an accent or as a wall color,” says New York designer Alex Papachristidis. “I think of purple as a neutral—it looks wonderful with mossy green, a bit of yellow, red, and aqua blue. Purple is rich and lush, and has an incredibly regal quality.”
The example:

My take: No. Too much in the room is competing. I like that shade of purple on the walls but it is not subtle enough to be the "neutral" in that room - don't care what anyone says.

The designer: Grant K. Gibson

His thoughts: “I like a lighter shade of purple that’s closer to pink, like lilac,” says San Francisco-based designer Grant K. Gibson. “It doesn’t look feminine; it just adds a whimsical touch to spaces.”

The example:

My take: Dude, I like the lilac grasscloth, but what's with all the pink? Points for putting the Keep Calm poster in the can though. But no.

The designer: Oliver M. Furth

His thoughts: “Purples have that funny balance between cool and warm— they can be somewhere in between,” says Los Angeles-based designer Oliver M. Furth. “I often use eggplants and lavenders when I’m trying to find that happy medium.”

The example:

My take: Dude, my toes are curling. Me like. Contrasts with the white, brings out the warmth of the wood. Blends with the lighter tones of the lamp base and pottery. White door with narrow dark wood frame. If you were in a bar I would give you a second look and maybe make an excuse to move closer to you to get a closer look, you know what I mean?

The designer: Marie Turner

Her thoughts: “Purple is sexy and unexpected,” says Marie Turner of New York’s M. Elle Design. “It is a regal color that accentuates a room and calls attention to itself without being overbearing.”

The example:

My take: Um, chiquita, donde esta el purpolo? Do you see it? I'm squinting and I still can't see it. Throw pillows? Really? That's what you're giving me, purple throw pillows?

Have a great Sunday!

2011-10-16T08:32:00.000-04:00

office

2011-10-15T22:26:00.000-04:00

I love this little workspace vignette but why are there grenades hanging from the windows?

Source: splendidwillow.com via Pia on Pinterest

Fall outfit on a rainy day in New England

2011-10-13T18:37:00.000-04:00

If there was ever a day to wear this outfit, it was today!

Long sleeve top, £175
Pringle of Scotland block top, £74
Altuzarra wrap skirt, £1,395
Kate spade shoes, $125
Mulberry satchel bag, €1.008
Betsey Johnson cheetah jewelry, $195
Mimco white pearl earrings, £30
Dorothy Perkins thin belt, £5

cool

2011-10-13T16:03:00.000-04:00

Have you been watching Glee? It's an unexpected delight to see that they are performing some West Side Story numbers. In particular Cool...I think they did a very respectable version...search around the internet for the Harry Shum Jr. version from the Asian F episode (so glad they are actually featuring him at long last...he's been more interesting in just a couple of episodes than Trouty Mouth was all of last season). The story line is not very original so far, but I'm willing to overlook that to see him perform more.

Anyhoop, like any good pupil, I went back to the original film version. A classic! It is just amazing how sharp quick movements and articulations punctuating fluid choreography manifests the suppressed volatility portrayed in the youth of the period, as well the explosive nature of that force when it came to race relations.

Not to knock the Glee version, where the dance style is a bit more fluid and elegant and lacks that extra punch. So I'll give it an A- (or Asian F).

P.S. Am I the only one who giggles whenever they sing "got a rocket in your pocket"
I'm such an adult.

a day late...

2011-10-11T21:16:00.000-04:00

Happy belated Columbus day, non-aboriginal people of the American continent!

Let's make light of the situation:

Sorry man...

red, white and blue (hold the cheese)

2011-10-09T10:24:00.000-04:00

Kudos for a color combination that sometimes be a little hokey.

Jonathan Adler

Coastal Living

Our Little Beehive nomnomnom

balls

2011-10-08T22:46:00.000-04:00

Vivienne Westwood y'all

Does anyone know who the photographer is?

Pretty Sparkly Edgy?

2011-10-07T21:32:00.002-04:00

Or, I can take it in an entirely different direction (let's pretend those are white leather pants--I wish!)

Club Monaco striped top, £160
Karl Donoghue texture coat, $2,420
All Saints skinny leg jeans, $120
Miu Miu peep toe platform pumps, $670
Cheetah handbag, $68
Lola Rose pink sterling silver ring, £125
Nina Bukvic fringe earrings, $1,095

Pretty Sparkly

2011-10-06T19:19:00.001-04:00

I would wear this to a party when I'd be feeling particularly girly, yet casual and a bit slouchy.

Club Monaco striped top, £160
Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti cashmere blend coat, $1,200
Club Monaco zipper skirt, £170
Kate Spade sling back pumps, $275
Diane von Furstenberg python handbag, £249
Nina Bukvic chain drop earrings, $1,095
Moschino heart shaped jewelry, $166

Love/Hate relationship

2011-10-05T19:51:00.000-04:00

Hello One Kings Lane:

Even though I have unsubscribed from your daily reminders of upcoming sales,

almost as regular as, well, regularity, I check you out to see what's going on.

Sometimes, I'm offended by the prices of some items (no pillow should cost more than $40, come on! you can make them from scrap fabric!),

I sometimes see an item or two that make my eyes mist over. And not because it isn't priced right,

it's just not priced right-now. That makes me take a look around, sigh and long for something else.

The images look like they would even smell pretty. Like roses, not red roses, but soft pink roses.

I sometimes think that these pretty things can somehow make the light softer, so everything would seem ethereal and not so harsh.

And home to me would be a place that would be soft, warm and welcoming, where even the neighbors' too loud yelling and car slamming late into the night would somehow be muffled.

Some day.

A girl can dream.

um, world?

2011-10-04T16:14:00.000-04:00

I'm a four-month old puppy. About two months ago I was abandoned in an apartment, along with my mom. My mom recently jumped out of the window in search of food. Did I mention we lived on the 3rd floor? She was hurt, but at least it got some people's attention and they came to get me.

Here's me.

and me again:

I have two questions:

1: I'm a pit bull type dog: am I screwed?

2: Are all humans douchebags?

I love you Animal Rescue League of Boston.

two months' rent (more or less)

2011-10-03T21:10:00.000-04:00

Diamond-Carved Chair

This exquisitely shaped chair will add just the right amount of detail to a minimalist's space. Effortlessly elegant and featuring a lovely nailhead trim, this is a piece to treasure.

Available at: Neiman Marcus

Price: $2,199

(from Canadian House & Home)

It is pretty though, isn't it? I need to find a local thrift store and a cab service with vans or station wagons. And hone up my handywoman skills while I'm at it.

more purpliciousness

2011-10-01T08:41:00.000-04:00

Back drop to neutrals and linen

In a small space

Outdoors without being that crazy lady's house

I'm hungry

this is what I would wear to work if...

2011-09-27T21:55:00.001-04:00

(minus the black tights)

I didn't take public transportation; I could walk in heels; The City of Cambridge would fix its sidewalks; I didn't spill food or drink on myself; I wasn't expected to carry, lift, clean, or crawl under things; I'd get out of my own way

Dream Work Outfit by fmeale featuring a short coat

Nanette Lepore bodice dress, $348
Nanette Lepore short coat, $528
Ralph Lauren Collection t-strap platform sandals, $650
Mulberry oversized handbag, £995
Ippolita gold jewelry, $225
Fallon vintage style ring, $100
Michele diamond jewelry, $1,695

woops! Forgot my scarf: Hermes Sichuan Silk twill scarf, hand-rolled (36" x 36"), $385.00

ok I'll drink the purple Koolaid

2011-09-26T23:23:00.000-04:00

I dunno why, but I'm coming around to purple, especially in its velvetty versions. Please note the evidence (via Pinterest):

ok, the last picture is just gratuitous cuteness...

it's gracuitous.

He would look cute on a purple couch, non?

I LOVE YOU ELIZABETH WARREN!!!!!!!!

2011-09-23T18:30:00.001-04:00

word

money isn't everything....

2011-09-22T10:59:00.000-04:00

right?

I'm just going to come out and say it

2011-09-21T11:10:00.000-04:00

I hate rich people.

Judge me. I don't care.

my weekend

2011-09-16T12:45:00.000-04:00

In addition to doing, as per usual, lots of this,

I will be here,

celebrating the joy these lovely creatures bring into our lives,

and hopefully I will be be able to hold back the tears, as it will be the 1 year anniversary of losing my first love.

I still miss you Nelly-Jelly-in-the-Belly

attention Target shoppers!!!

2011-09-14T19:44:00.000-04:00

Feeling blue? Didn't get that throw/pillow/sweater/scarf/platter you wanted?

I have some etsy alternatives for you:

Needlepoint Mod Flame Belt Buckle by needleyou

Missoni-Style Knit and Fleece Blanket by kozykids

Blue Missoni-Style Knit Dog Coat by KozyCanines

Space Dress by Michelle Rose, Zig Zag Stretch Sweater Knit Sleeveless Boatneck Tunic in Gold Silver Cream Black Missoni Motif by ShopMichelleRose

Chevron Printable Wall Art Home Decor Missoni Inspired by BatesMercantileCo

Handblown Glass Vase by GardenCityGlass

With all due respect to our Asian brothers and sisters, do we (Americans) really need to be buying more shit from China?

etsy finds

2011-09-13T10:10:00.000-04:00

Why would anyone ever shop for accessories in run of the mill retail shops when there is so much lovely vintage stuff around? Yes probably due to convenience. It takes a lot of scouring, patience and time to find that lovely, unique and perfect piece to integrate into your home and/or decor.

I love this pendant!

Hollywood Regency Pierced Brass Hanging Lamp, from fabulousmess

Wish I had the funds and space to hang it! Gah!

Something of a more modest scale:

Gold Imari Jar, LastChanceEmporium

Cute for some office or bathroom storage.

I don't know what to say,

2011-09-11T14:36:00.000-04:00

so I'll let someone else try.

fun

2011-09-06T22:30:00.000-04:00

Black and white upholstered walls provide a crisp and graphic backdrop to traditional art and furnishings.

This designer would make an interesting curator.

Country Living

an unexpected result

2011-09-03T19:27:00.000-04:00

I'm noticing that Pumpkin is barking more and more since I have started to work on and in my new office area. Due to the fact that 5 of the 7 windows in the room are open, we hear more noise than usual from the street and the park behind the house.

Is this to be a "warm weather only" situation, or should I create some white noise (maybe run a fan)? He usually isn't this reactive on the street. I am guessing not seeing the source of the noise is at the root of this.

Any dog owners out there have some thoughts on this?

1 Night stand

2011-09-01T20:55:00.001-04:00

Thanks to Kellie Collis of Ada&Darcy who brought these images to my attention.

I love those nightstands, particularly the one on the right (our right).

Silver gilt, crackled mirror. Aged shiny prettiness, in a charming way, not ironic at all. Would look very nice in a romantic bedroom (sigh)

Look at the detail on that lip.

images from Magazine C

They don't really talk about them in the article. Dommage!

pumtato

2011-08-30T01:04:00.000-04:00

the result of Pumpkin transforming into a couch potato

wha wha

scenes from Irene

2011-08-28T20:05:00.000-04:00

I stayed home all day, so Irene was no more than a stormy New England day.

Here is what it was to some other folks. You may notice a theme, but I promise you these are much more interesting than shots of downed trees. I know there are alot of photos, but hang on till the last one--it won't disappoint.

AP Photo/The Virginian: rescue on Willoughby Spit

Bimal Nepal: From Boston University Bridge, Cambridge, MA

Lauren Rollins: Boat washed ashore near Castle Island

Casey Sylvia: Beantown

H Drummond: Capsized boat on Mystic Lake, Winchester

Patrice Brown: Swampscott?

Tim C: Two sailboats washed ashore, Day Boulevard Beach, South Boston

Matthew Flynn: Falmouth Heights

Leslie: Boat washed ashore, Fisherman's Beach, Swampscott

Allison: Kettle Cove, Manchester-by-the-Sea

Reza: Beached boat, South Boston

Lynn: One of a half-dozen boats washed up on Lynn/Swampscott beach

and last, but not least.....

Eli Gingold: Motorcycle knocked over by tree. (My favorite)

Most of these images from Boston.com submitted by readers.

Like I needed an excuse...

2011-08-26T21:00:00.000-04:00

Happy National Dog Day!

(yes that is a ruffle border toile blanket; your point?)

jumping ahead to the next project: hardware

2011-08-26T11:43:00.000-04:00

Hello!

Just a quickie for today, as I have lots to do before Hurricane Irene sweeps through New England.

I was thinking of replacing the hardware on this little cabinet I have for another room. I came across this pretty green/blue drawer pull at Anthropologie, and since it was on my way to the bank, I thought I would pop in and get one to test out.

I like the pretty greens and blues, and the fact that it looks like a product of some magical geological formation, though, I was disappointed to find out it is actually stoneware.

Here it is on the cabinet:

Kind of gets lost, doesn't it?

How disappointing! Well, off you go back to the store, Mr. Knobby.

For those of you in Irene's path, be safe.

Have a fine weekend all!

more photos, less barking

2011-08-23T22:28:00.000-04:00

Room continued.

I have this little marble top bistro table that I bought ions ago and has been with me ever since. I thought I would put it in this room as a small "meeting table" or just a place to have the morning coffee while I pour over magazines.

A classically symmetrical arrangement but a little sparse. Low and behold I came across this image from someone else's blog (forgot whose, sorry) and I was kinda jonesing on it.

Most likely the counterbalance of horizontal and vertical lines, or the promise of a sweet spot to take a nap, drew me in! I decided to make use of my less lovely yet will-do-in-pinch Karlstad chaise.

Sorry for the quality of the photos, I was using the non-flash setting in trying to convey the different qualities of blue. While the chaise's blue is more of a tint, the blues in the rug are more a hue. The result is neither harmonious nor complementary, they are just wrong for each other. Another thing that bothers me is the chaise height; it's a a little low for my liking. (see here for my feelings on scale). To remedy these two particular issues I would try to reupholster the chaise, however none of the Ikea ready made slipcovers appeal to me. In taking a hint from the inspiration picture, I would select either a black and cream or a navy and cream ticking. This will have to wait for the fall once I enroll in the local school for sewing classes. Rome wasn't built in a day, all in good time as they say.

(imagine a navy version as well)

I would probably move the rug forward also; why waste all that beautiful pattern under a piece of furniture especially when the hardwood floor needs some work?

Another alteration would be the height of the chaise; currently the legs are 6" in height; I would increase them to 9-10", bringing them more into scale with the the elements of the room but not obscuring the windows behind. Also, getting off the chaise would be easier once it is not as low to the ground. :)

I found these two examples online at (either) DIY Upholstery Supply or Van Dyke's Restorers but I'll keep looking around for other sources and options.

Oh yes, and now the little bistro table and plant sit in the less prominent but more appropriate yet still functional corner spot.

You may be asking why I would want a chaise in an office; no, I am not a therapist. As I have given up on television but still require thought provoking art form film and/or documentary, or just mind numbing entertainment, I have resorted to using my computer and the internet for seeking these out. The position of the chaise just happens to give me the perfect sight line to the monitor. Maybe one day I'll invest in Apple TV. Here's to the wave of the future!

Again, your thoughts would be appreciated.

%^^$%*(() landlady's son's car alarm

2011-08-22T20:28:00.000-04:00

As I started to work on this post that idiot of my landlady's son's car alarm went off. Now Pumpkin, who was fast asleep at my feet, won't stop barking. Ass wipe.

Anyway, here some additions to the sunroom come office come den.

Sorry for the cloudy spots on some of the images; unbeknownst to me, my camera lens has some schmutz on it.

Rug: 6.5x10' from Target; has to be the prettiest thing I own.

Desk: a purchase from a far away exotic place on one of my many travels.....ppffttttt...not really, it is a Crate and Barrel floor model console table. I like the contrast. It's positioned a little off center because I need the window facing it to be closed at all times (since my computer will be sitting on it), and that window is closest to the outlet on the adjacent wall. Plus, I get the benefit of having a cross breeze by keeping the other window open. Will have to figure out how to neaten up all the wires and cables. A discreet laptop is not in the budget currently.

And in keeping with contrasts my white leather (yowza) office chair from West Elm. The lame pillow will be replaced with something more snazzy down the line, however, my old arse absolutely needs one.

Well, that's it for now. Gotta go release Pumpkin from his time out.

I'd love to hear your thoughts; thanks for stopping by.

pre-car alarm Pumpkin

as promised...clean slate

2011-08-21T15:57:00.000-04:00

A while ago, I promised to chronicle some projects I have been forever thinking about in my own humble abode. Well, here we are.

Let me preface this with a little summary:

I rent a 7.5 room apartment in a two family home in a Boston area suburb (yes I know that's big; a post about this later). It is a very pretty area and I feel very fortunate to live here. My landlady is in her 80's, is as feisty as they get, and quite old fashioned about money and how to spend it. So, my place (although she just got her kitchen updated) is in need of some updating, which I don't think would be a wise investment for me as a renter (not that I have the resources anyway). So, I'm making the best of what I have. I'm just saying there can be charm in the imperfections. After all, I've seen a few cracked walls and worn floors in more than one Anthropologie ad. Maybe I'm starting to sound a bit too defensive, so let's begin the tour.

The room: I used to call it a sunroom. A smallish room with lots of windows and no specific purpose. Behold its previous life as a sitting room.

I never used it.

Here it is this weekend after a paint job (bright white-when I first walked in, it is was so white it looked a little pink). Enjoy the 360 tour.

and I almost forgot:

hey whatchu doin' in dere?

This room will become my office/den.

Note: Yes I realize the windows need to be cleaned. In not making use of the room, upkeep was...well, it just wasn't!

Stay tuned for updates...

do(l)pe

2011-08-18T14:30:00.000-04:00

space in San Francisco loft by Steven Volpe

from Elle Decor

and here

doesn't it beat any metal, glass, acrylic, composite, laminate board room furniture you've ever seen?

it's so simple, yet brilliant. i can't stop staring at it.

word

2011-08-13T17:07:00.002-04:00

‎"If you think dogs can't count, try putting three dog biscuits in your pocket and then giving Fido only two of them."
-Phil Pastoret

crazy pills Monday

2011-08-08T19:25:00.000-04:00

It wasn't the fact that on my way to work, rain drops were evaporating before they hit the ground.

It wasn't the graduate student who essential forgot to write half of his proposal for funding.

It wasn't even the Citibank credit card application that came in the mail today with the words "because you deserve it," printed on the envelope, even though I did not pay my student loan payment last month (backed by Citibank) and my credit card (again, Citibank) is maxed out.

No, it had to be this.

I don't like cats (except yours of course), but this just seems a little bizarre to me. Like Bonsai kitten, snicker worthy to some (jackasses), but essentially cruel and inhumane.

Welcome to crazy pills Monday, edition 1.

rainy New England Sunday morning

2011-08-07T11:11:00.000-04:00

Pumpkin looks worried...

...is it the stock market? the unemployment rate? Standard & Poor rating? his looks waning with age?

Sleep tight puhp puhp, I'll be here for you always.

i think someone had extra fabric lying around from the previous collection

2011-07-29T21:46:00.001-04:00

The only thing weirder than the images is the text: hello automated translator!!!!!

Apartment interior décor is a home design that was very creative and very modern; it might be able to make the interior design feel more attractive if you bring into your home interior. Apartment interior design is an apartment owned French designer named Jean-Paul Gaultier. Jean-Paul Gaultier seemed to make a crazy interior design in his apartment with a theme that is very interesting. Interior house belonging to Jean-Paul Gaultier is truly inspiring, it’s very interesting. Stripy design make the interior design feels more and more interesting character. You’ll find the interior seems a crazy and monochromatic as nautical stripes running through the apartment walls, floors and furniture. Navy interior design seemed to fit the designer’s signature in the worked as a fashion designer. You’ll find plenty of inspiration from the interior décor in the apartment that we present this time. Please look around!

"Welcome to my hallway. These stripes were intended to help you distinguish the x from the y axis."

"I just sit here during parties hoping someone doesn't see me and ends up on my lap! Cheeky monkey am I!"

OK, I get it, taking the familiar silhouettes of traditional forms and challenging with an op art idiom.

But a true genius would have crated something more realistic and sensible, right, Monsieur Starck?

It just looks like an interior on crazy pills.

For crying out loud! From here.

I made it!

2011-07-25T07:56:00.000-04:00

Blistered feet the only casualty!

i'm going to die, lord have mercy

2011-07-20T19:43:00.000-04:00

earlier this year i found out (on my birthday) that someone near and dear to me was diagnosed with breast cancer.

so while i was emotionally vulnerable, someone not so near and dear convinced me to do this

walking 60 miles, over 3 days, 20 miles per day

camping, overnight, for two nights, in the outdoors.

wanna see the forecast?

thank you weather.com

ok sunday won't be so bad however,

a) i'm canadian and not partial to tropical climes (thanks Jen) b) blogging is my cardio c) i don't camp

crap....should have just wrote a check...

so in case i don't make it, thanks for the reads, tears, and giggles.

i'm going to die, lord have mercy.

oh shut up

2011-07-15T23:29:00.000-04:00

Hello my name is Sarah, and my remodels are funded by my TV show. Yes, that's right, you get to see me turn expensive real estate that very few can afford into even more expensive real estate that even fewer can afford. Oh, and did I mention that I'm from Toronto, and my accent makes me clearly enunciate every consonant, and I say prOcess, and abOOt alot.

Here's the dining room where all my friends/employees will spend their weekends relaxing/doing work. I bought the table at a thrift shop where I probably low-balled the owner because he didn't want to look like a greedy bastard on tv, playing hard ball with me. Same for the mismatched chairs and bench, which I had spray painted. I spray paint furniture that I get for next to nothing alot. The fabric on the chairs were remnants we dug up from the bottom of a barrel (and dirt cheap) at a store I won't reveal to you.

Here's the master bedroom where the quilt is another thing I underpaid from an unsuspecting and overly accommodating local vendor. Do you like the way I ruin the look of the room with that stupid lifesaver on the wall? And check out the wall paneling, the chic kind, not the crappy kind you inherited from the old person who used to live in the house you now rent.

Did I mention that I didn't even have to buy this property? No, my husband bought it before we met and now we get to have the renovation subsidized by my career. See all those new windows we put in? They are probably energy efficient and I'll get some sort of incentive/tax break from the Government of Canada.

And just to annoy boops, here is a pretty room with all the elements she particularly enjoys: light, vegetation, home made birch trunk lamp, pale blues, greens, whites, and a bright accent color.

Feels like a true getaway, right? I know.

But just to make you feel better/angrier boops, I threw in a wtf moment.

You're welcome.

on those mornings when there is time to make the bed

2011-07-14T22:28:00.000-04:00

somehow, it doesn't always come out quite right.

i keep going back

2011-07-10T07:09:00.000-04:00

to this moodboard created by Jenny

She designed it as an entryway, which I don't technically have. Still, I can't seem to stop staring at it.

I think it's feminine, stylish and all around lovely.

i've stopped

2011-07-09T05:11:00.000-04:00

daydreaming
fantasizing
envisioning how things could be....

That's bad, right?

Vicodin

2011-06-29T16:34:00.000-04:00

I got to see this painting up close and in person. There's a lot more yellow in it, particularly in the background, than this reproduction lets on. It's also very glossy and shiny which made me like it even more.

It reminded me of the last (and only) time I took (and will ever take) vicodin. It was after my wisdom (not Wisdumb) tooth extraction, and I was ordered to eat only soft/liquidy foods. I had a scrambled egg and some strawberry flavored Ensure for breakfast. After walking the dog, I started to feel nauseous. I puked pink and yellow and remarked how pretty these two colors could look together.

Painting entitled "Internal Explosion" (HA!) by Josh Wisdumb
36 x 48"
ink, paint, graphite on wooden panel

I may be able to afford it someday.

jennifer lopez is girly

2011-06-27T19:52:00.000-04:00

i like this little vignette: femme yet moderne. the birds add a touch of whimsy, but not in a cute way.

i'm trying to get a better look at that table....acrylic? art deco? anyone?

via veranda.

lately

2011-06-26T20:38:00.001-04:00

i have been spending alot of time here with him doing this:

not sure how much good it's doing but i haven't climbed the water tower just yet.

**still need to master my iPhone so forgive the slatted, jerky view

void of content

2011-04-14T23:43:00.000-04:00

I'm off in search of inspiration. I will be back.

good knob, bad knob

2011-03-04T06:13:00.002-05:00

pretty

creepy (I can see it being a launching off point for an episode of X-files...oh sorry kids, Supernatural)

congratulations Mr. Darcy

2011-02-28T07:12:00.002-05:00

Now that you very deservedly won an Oscar, you may want to take some time to reflect happily on your achievements.

Kick back and relax a bit.

Maybe have a glass of wine.

Better yet kick back with a glass of wine.

It's about bloody time.

Congratulations!

I love you.

do you remember?

2011-01-18T22:02:00.002-05:00

that's you pu-pu on the far right, sucking hind teat

happy birthday my sweet little companion

want

2011-01-13T20:45:00.002-05:00

from Lonny

but maybe with a little crown molding-wall seems unfinished.

what she said

2011-01-05T20:11:00.002-05:00

i'm going to copy Court because, to quote myself in her comments:

"...I have hardly any original ideas of my own and have to rely and [sic] the talent and creativity of others....just like Madonna does."

stay tuned. no cones bras, i promise.

and in conclusion

2010-12-31T19:08:00.003-05:00

to me, 2010 will forever be the year of this:

and i am grateful for this little blessing.

something doesn't look quite right (furniture scale and proportions)

2010-12-29T11:35:00.002-05:00

from HGTV's dreamhouse in Stowe, VT, a bedroom

can we discuss how low the chair looks compared to the height of the bed? this is bugging me as i'm encountering the same issue in laying out my own bedroom.

another view... (hey cutie)

maybe if there was more distance between the the bed and the chairs so the discrepancy in height wasn't so obvious.

view from chair

i think there must have been standing on the chair when they took this shot since if seated, the sight line from the chair would have you peeking slightly over the blankets.

is it just me....how would you address this?

a very curious cookie

why don't we have this on American television?

living room textiles

Superbowl Sunday! Hands down, no contest winner.

Tang

to the dogs

birds on the brain

living room before (warning - ugggly)

meh

ohmugosh

ebay score: lamp

anything for a friend!

2

today is for

a little funny after last night's game

smorgastorta

dog geeking

ask and you shall receive

another look at Michael S. Smith: asian elements

Happy New Year: Photo Bomb - animal edition

vanilla

between now and then

John Robshaw pillows for the living room

i like this living room

when I saw a picture of this bedroom

why we suck

note to self

oh the shame

kitchen furniture

skirts

Happy Thanksgiving!

CCC inspiration: brown toile and black and white stripes

I prefer a superb owl to﻿ the superbowl*

wish I had $500

more white Christmas inspirations

white christmas decorating

I bought a rug

It feels weird to say "Happy".....

orangey coral sofas and geode

ever look at a guy and think.....

Office Holiday Party

Hope you had a Happy Halloween!

it's going to snow this weekend

FIRED!

Preview of Halloween

stage mom

Designers talk purple (via Elle Decor)

Have a great Sunday!

office

Fall outfit on a rainy day in New England

cool

a day late...

red, white and blue (hold the cheese)

balls

Pretty Sparkly Edgy?

Pretty Sparkly

Love/Hate relationship

um, world?

two months' rent (more or less)

more purpliciousness

this is what I would wear to work if...

ok I'll drink the purple Koolaid

I LOVE YOU ELIZABETH WARREN!!!!!!!!

money isn't everything....

I'm just going to come out and say it

my weekend

attention Target shoppers!!!

etsy finds

I don't know what to say,

fun

an unexpected result

1 Night stand

pumtato

scenes from Irene

Like I needed an excuse...

jumping ahead to the next project: hardware

more photos, less barking

%^^$%*(() landlady's son's car alarm

as promised...clean slate

do(l)pe

I prefer a superb owl to the superbowl*