Off The Counter: The Breville Juicer

This week's Off The Counter is inspired by the juicer that my husband gave me for Christmas.  Having always loved fresh carrot juice and craving it lately, I thought that having it readily available would be great for all of us, kids and adults alike.  I must confess not everyone is enjoying it as much as I am.  Regardless,  I continue to experiment with different ingredients.  Yesterday I blended carrots, celery and ginger root that resulted in a juice that was both sweet and spicy, not to mention super healthy.   My children are loving the mechanics of the juicer.  Now, if only I could get them to drink the darn juice!

In the past I've tried other juicers, but this one is by far the quietest and easiest to clean.   If you own a juicer, I'd love to hear about your favorite juicy combinations.  If you don't,  I strongly recommend you invest in the Breville juicer [here].

Thank you Alex!

Stairway Photo Walls: 7 Images & 7 Tips

After seeing photos hung along a stairway in last week's The Way We Live, a reader requested more examples of this win/win decorating trend.     Take a look at these 7 images and get ideas on creating  your own stairway to family 'haven'.

Do you have a photo wall?  If yes, my readers and I would love to see it.  Send your images to debra@cocoonhome.com.  Many thanks!!

Images: 1./2./3./4./5./6./7.

The Life Of Loki

It's been 2 weeks since we brought Loki home and we're all enjoying him immensely.  Our children love playing with Loki and are learning to care for him with daily walks, feedings and an occasional grooming (no bagging of poop yet).   I'm taking comfort in his company while the kids are in school and Alex, having grown up with 5 dogs [at one time] is relishing the canine companionship.  Take a look at the leisure life of Loki:

'Til Monday: 5 Friday Favorites

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

The Way We Live: A Spontaneous New Year's Day Visit

Instead of a typical New Year's post about milestones and resolutions, I'll share with you photographs of our first 2013 day, spent in Noe Valley with friends we met while living in SF many years ago.  Now that we live near one another spontaneous visits are possible and with a couple like DS and BB you can always expect a warm welcome (even with 3 crazy kids in tow).  Their home is cozy and eclectic and reflects their passions and travels.  Seamlessly mixed vintage finds, textiles, art and interesting artifacts, this home is truly an example of  The Way We Live.  Take a look:

During our visit we shared in a Southern New Year's tradition of eating black eyed peas and collard greens which symbolize future wealth and good luck.  Here's to wishing everyone both in 2013!    I ate two entire bowls...

Happiest of new years and many thanks to DS and BB for sharing the first day of 2013 with all of us and you.