Out And About: The Alameda Point Antiques Faire

This week's Out And About features the East Bay's Alameda Point Antiques Faire.  Taking place on the first Sunday of every month, we definitely wanted to make the trip last weekend.  True to its reputation, the flea market was packed with creatively dressed people, tons of vendors offering unique wares, and an interesting array of food trucks (post on the latter will follow soon).   There was definitely something for everyone.  We braved the fair with our 3 kids, who casually and patiently walked the aisles occasionally stopping to check out vintage toys and sporting goods, while the adults eyed mid-century furniture , art and accessories for the new house.  Take a look at some of our Sunday market images:

 

Visiting flea markets are one of my most favorite things to do.   I tend to search out chairs, vintage clothing and I seem strangely attracted to bakelite bracelets, even though I rarely wear them.  What do you gravitate towards while scouting flea markets?

Off The Counter: 5 Favorite Avocado Recipes

My love for avocados developed later in life.  As I child, I used to watch in horror as my mother dressed them in olive oil, salt and pepper and then savored them slowly.  She was always confident that I would become an avocado lover just like her.  Since our move to California, they've become a regular 'off the counter'staple, either served as my Mom would eat them, mashed into fresh guacamole, or used in recipes like the ones above.

I love living in avocado country!

Images and recipes: 1./2./3./4./5.

Moving Mode: Evening Reflections

 Over the weekend, I snapped some shots of the house after dark.  The rooms that are sun filled during the day take on a whole new look at night.  Images that are reflected back on the many glass walls and windows give the illusion of multiple spaces.  I can't get enough of our new home. Take a look:

Botanical Inspiration: A Friend's Gift Comes Alive.

 With roses, lemon balm and lime branches, all from our garden, I put together a free form flower arrangement in a vessel given to me by a dear friend.   Take a look at how it took shape and read a few tips below on creating your very own composition.

5 tips on creating your own free form botanical arrangement:

1.  Use seasonal foliage/flowers.

2. Pick both flowers in full bloom and some that are just budding.

3.  Leave a fair amount of foliage on the stems.

4.  Incorporate berries, fruits and/or branches.

5.  Let the petals fall freely around the vessel.

I like to place bouquets in not-so-obvious places, like bathrooms, kitchen counters and childrens' rooms.

Thank you EVB for the lovely vase!

P.S.:  I will be unplugged for a few days during our first California camping trip with our children.  YAY!!!

Moving Mode: Book Shelves/Before And After

There was a time (not that long ago) when I organized books by color, shape and size.   Not now, not in this house.  I've set my OCD aside (at least for a while) and let the books fill the shelves without any design restrictions.  This method did take a lot less time and effort and I actually LOVE the way it turned out.

 With all the moves we've experienced in the past,  I've come to the realization that each new space is unique.  What may have worked in one may not look right in another.   I'm enjoying letting go of some past decorating approaches and welcoming new ones.  Keep posted for more updates.