5 Foot E

Friends just bought this 5 foot E off of EBay.  They recently upsized their house and could use a 5 foot E.   Their last name begins with, you guessed it an E.  Search under vintage sign letters and you too can own a 5 foot metal letter that can be back- lit, painted in an bold color or left in its original state..  I LOVE it and so does their daughter.

My own before and after kitchen

This kitchen looked worse than it was.   It just needed a few changes.  First, we kept the wood counters but had them refinished the same way we did the floors in the rest of the house.   Dark ebony.  I love the warmth the wood gives to an often cool area.  We also had my dad make new front cabinets the same height as the ones against the window.  Next... new appliances, paint, and FlOR carpet tiles to cover the tile. Eventually I'll install wood flooring  or my new favorite tile from Ann Sacks, Texere.  It looks and feels like linen but is porcelain.  It comes in soft earthy tones and feels great under foot.  I will of course add radiant heat.

The space is the same as it was but easy on the eyes and easy to work in.  Everything is within arms reach.  Even the toys so i can distract the little ones while making dinner or mixing a drink.  Send me photos of your renovated kitchen.

Botanical Papers

Wallpaper designer Neisha Crosland combines delicate design with bold pattern in her Firework Flower series.

Jocelyn Warner's wallpapers also take on  botanical themes.   She often adds metallic touches.  Which reflect light and create depth on the wall.  I wish  changing wallpaper was as easy as changing paint color.

City party, country feel

Living in the city doesn't always need to feel urban.  At a recent party the feel was less city and more country.  How much do you love the canoe cooler?  Not only did it keep the adult beverages cold but it kept my three kids entertained for the whole evening.  Other home town touches.... homemade cheeses, local baked breads, glass plates and cups, live music and good old neighbors.  Summer has begun.  Happy Birthday Jack and Melissa.

Quick Changes

look what a little spray paint can do...

i've had these candelabras for a long time...i was either going to sell them at one of our many yard sales or hit them with a can of spray paint.  At our most recent  sale just one sold so i finally sprayed the others.  Now i wish i had all three.   i also sprayed an outdoor set i found on the street...i dragged the set 2 blocks while pushing a double stroller.  (it took three trips)  Determination and sheer craziness made me do it.  But look at the changes i made.  Spray paint and re-upholstered cushions....

ikea ottoman upholstered in same fabric.  works has extra seating or side table.