Simply Bay's Place

Back in the Saddle

2010-08-23T15:47:00.004-06:00

Hellloooooo oooouuuuttttt thheeerrrreeee.......

I'm finally back after the best/hardest experience of my life.

I spent 7 weeks in the hospital on bedrest only to deliver my special little man 6 1/2 weeks early. He was teeny tiny at a measly 2 lbs 13 oz but perfect! So incredibly perfect.

His "hotel" stay consisted of another 4 weeks in the NICU but now he's home.

HOME.

Home and thriving. Gaining weight like a champ and keeping his mommy up all night while he parties away. I love every single minute of it.

I wouldn't change my experience for the world. It taught me so much.

I still can hardly walk more than a mile because my muscles gave up on me but I still wouldn't change it.

He is a precious little miracle and I am so lucky and blessed to have him.

Welcome to the world Porter Jameson

5 Weeks Down

2010-06-20T22:38:00.003-06:00

It's been five lllloooooonnnnngggggg weeks of bedrest here in my new casa aka room #2312.

I realized today that I need to get back into being myself even though I don't feel like myself.

Myself likes to read, and write, and paint, and read magazines....plenty of magazines. Yet, I have this large pile of magazines, and good ones, that I have hardly touched.

It's hard here, dealing with the day to day of nothingness....

Just trying to stay upbeat and keep the eye on the prize.

The prize being a healthy little boy.

It's hard to be so lonely. Even though I have always loved, no cherished, my alone time. This is so different. So confining. So secluded.

I've been outside once in the last 2 weeks. Once. For this outdoorsey girl. Once. Yuck.

It's just me and my little man. Making it through day by day with little spurts of visits from family and friends.

My poor husband. This is so hard for him. Taking on all household responsibilities plus a fairly new job and spending time with me in the hospital.
All I can say is I'm a lucky girl!

So, getting back to ME.

I need to:

Read

Create

Believe

Trust

And just BE.

Borrowed from perfectsentiment.blogspot.com
One of my most favorite places to visit, which tonight really lifted my spirits.
Thanks Erin!

Bed Rest....

2010-05-21T16:10:00.003-06:00

Haven't been around lately due to an imposed 22 hour a day bedrest.
It's one of the hardest things I've ever done.

Everything is on hold in my life and my poor DH is having to manage life without me, while I sit/lay in a hospital bed for another 5-10 weeks.

So, while I lay here and try to take care of the little one growing in my belly, I contimplate this blog.

Where's it going?

What do I want out of it?

What will it become?

It's funny that my last post was titled "In with the good....out with the bad".

Irony.

So I'll be around reading and commenting and maybe writing. This little one will determine it all.

Please keep me in your prayers. I need it.

In with the good....out with the bad

2010-03-25T15:43:00.004-06:00

Life since the beginning of February has been....well....tough!

We've had life changing news both good and bad and I came to realize that good news and bad can both be challenging, especially when they are walking hand in hand into your life.

I've been aching to get back to blogging but have had neither the time or the energy and still a sagging lack of motivation.

But here I am. Back after almost two months and with news to share.

First the bad because.... well just because.

My once vibrant MIL is sick....Moderate to Severe Dementia for now but it will continue to progress.

She's only 64 and she is, in ways, like my mother. She has done so much for us and has always been there through thick and thin.

Which leads us to spending all our time travelling 45 minutes away to be with her. Support her. Protect her. Provide for her.

It is all consuming, terrifying, tiring, and sad.

The decisions and communication that go on with a disease like this are immense and I never would have had any idea that at my "young" age I would be dealing with something so HUGE!

64.....only 64......

~Sigh~

O.k. on to the good....

The hubs and I are finally starting our family.

We have a little boy due in August.

We are ecstatic, overjoyed, humbled, mystified, and greatful.

This is a whole new beginning to this wonderful life we have made with each other. I can't wait to see what the future holds and what fun this little "man" will bring into our lives.

The fun has begun with picking out names, choosing nursery colors, nesting..... all the exciting stuff that I missed out on when I lost my first....

I am so happy to be past the scary time and on to the next stage and look forward to sharing my journey with anyone who will listen.

So....it looks like I will be taking care of not one but two new people. My MIL who will soon loose her independance and will be very angry and depressed, and my little man who will soon be the light of my life and will change my very existence in more ways than I can imagine. But in ways that I can't wait to experience.

Sunnier Side of Life

2010-01-30T17:48:00.004-07:00

I'm leavin' on a jet plane

Don't know when I'll be back again.

Actually I do know when i'll be back. I wish I didn't but I do.

We're headed to sunny Southern California and I am so ready for the warm sun on my shoulders.

What's that song?

Sunshine on my shoulders makes me happy.....Isn't it John Denver?

Anyway, the hubs and I are travelling with his mother, who has early stage dementia, so that she can spend some time with her siblings before she doesn't remember them anymore.

Makes me sad but I'm so happy to be able to do this for and with her now before it's too late. The last few months have been a struggle. Neurologists, sleep studies, bloodwork, oh my.... Yes, we need this. As a family. Together and happy.

But, I did tell the hubs we'll have to put our patient pants on. I've been wearing mine a lot lately and it's his turn to join in.

And the sunshine....oh the sunshine. I can't wait.

AND...........

I got my camera. It's locked and loaded and just waiting for all the inspiration that is and will be flowing out of me.

I can't wait to share since I haven't had a camera in what seems like forever.

So Mia is hitting the road and will be out of touch for about a week.

When I return....It'll be a whole new Mia/Bay. I can feel it brimming already.

Sunny Southern Cal....Ready or not....Here we come!

M.I.A

2010-01-20T20:38:00.005-07:00

Yep, that's me Missing in Action.

I might start calling my self Mia for short....

I just haven't been motivated. December killed me.

Almost literally.

It was the Hubs last month at his much loved job. That broke my heart.

I had a multitude of cakes for a multitude of occasions(and I made a vow to myself that I may never make another wedding cake-I did say may never....)

We did the ever fun travelling 40 miles, one way, to see my family and the in-laws on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Then, delivered the Wedding cake on New Years Eve to my new cousin, the same 40 miles there and 40 miles back with a topper on my lap and two sleep deprived nephews in the back seat!

And all the while creating while not feeling so creative.

Not really checking in to see what my favorite bloggers are up to.

I think the fact that my camera is kaput is really getting to me too. I haven't taken a picture in a month, and anyone who knows me knows that is sooooo out of the ordinary....

I just haven't felt inspired.

The last week and a half I've had a TERRIBLE cold. Man, it was a bad one. Then the hubs got it and you know men....they don't do so well when their sick! Poor baby....

So I'm forcing myself back and out of this rut.

2010 is going to be a good year....

I'm buying myself a camera I've been dying to get (actually it was kind of a present-the fam gave me moolah for Christmas so that I can get myself a more professional camera-yippeeeee)

But, I haven't bought it yet-which tells you how icky I've been....

I mean, waiting a month to get this:

shows me I need to get myself together.

I have plans....

Families to photograph.

Childrens expressions to catch.

Dogs making cute faces.

Babies to pose.

Landscapes calling my name.

Ice crystals still hanging over the stream where we hike but threating to melt if I don't hurry up.

So it's time.

No time like the present huh?

Heck 2010 is already 20 days gone. I'd better get a move on.

Cause really

Bay Beautiful Bay

2009-12-07T14:26:00.005-07:00

I've found myself another absolute favorite!

I've been hinting to the hubs to get this for me for my Christmas decorating.

I keep telling him it'll last forever and isn't just for Christmas. So far he is putting up a front that he isn't going to get it for me but we shall see.....

What is it you ask?

drum roll please....

It's a fresh Bay Leaf Wreath from William Sonoma!

Isn't it perfect for me....I'm mean really isn't it?

They come in two sizes

22"
AND

15"

I personally like the bigger one. Plus, get this, since they are fresh you can use them for your holiday cooking. Just pluck a leaf off of the wreath (from the back honey....) and it's ready for use. Fresh Bay for your soups or stews or what-have-you. Then as it dries out, you have dried Bay Leaves. Do you know how much Bay is at the store? Do you? Well, this much Bay would cost wayyyy more than 30-60 bucks. For sure....

And really the price is right, the 22" is $59.95 and the 15" is only $29.95.

I can see this hanging at my kitchen window from a beautiful ribbon.

Not only is it beautiful but so super useful! I mean who couldn't use a Bay Leaf Wreath, right?

Simply Bay's Place sure could use a fresh Bay Leaf Wreath.

A Marriage made in Heaven.....

Enjoy!

Snowflakes that stay on my nose and eyelashes....

2009-12-03T11:58:00.004-07:00

It's a beautiful snowy day here in Colorado and I'm in love.

Not only am I in love with the wintry white gorgeousness that is happening right outside my window but I'm in love with this:

Origins Ginger Essence™

My wonderfully sweet sister remembered me oohing and ahhing over it when we were shopping last week and bought me not only the perfume but body butter, scrub,body wash and a roller ball perfume for my purse. Lucky me! (It was my birthday but she went all out and gave me the sweetest card~it made me cry...)

Now, I'm not much of a musky, rich, citrusy, heavy, scented girl.

I love me some light, flower-ish, breathy scents. I adore LOVELY by SJP!

But this sensuous skin scent (that's what Origins calls it- and they're right) is just plain perfect. Fresh, earthy, and light. Listen to their description, or I guess READ their description....sometimes it seems like I'm chatting and forget that you are reading ;)

Ancient Chinese tradition holds that where there's yin, there must be yang. And so the fragrant fire of spicy Ginger is balanced by the refreshing zeal of Bergamot, Lemon and Lime to create a sensuous synergy between warm and cool, energy and calm, tempest and tranquility. Skin is surrounded in an enticing aroma that's impossible to resist.

I love the scent. It makes me smile and puts some spring in my step but calms me at the same time! Yes, it is that wonderful.

So, speaking of favorites....were we speaking of favorites?

Oh yes, that's right I was headed there but only made it past the title....

I was singing some Christmas tunes the other day and found myself singing one of my all time favorite songs EVER, albeit not a Christmas tune.

My Favorite Things. You know, The Sound of Music. It's thundering outside and Julie Andrews sings of raindrops on roses and brown paper packages.

I started thinking of all the things she sings about.

All classic lovely little things.

Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens
Bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens
Brown paper packages tied up with string

Cream colored ponies and crisp apple strudel
Door bells and sleigh bells and schnitzel with noodles
Wild geese that fly with the moon on their wings

Girls in white dresses with blue satin sashes
Snowflakes that stay on my nose and eyelashes
Silver white winters that melt into spring

Who would have known that all these things would make such an impression on my life. I was just a little girl spinning around in circles singing this song over and over.

Now I'm a woman who loves simple brown packages, copper kettles, sleigh bells, white horses, raindrops on any kind of flower, and well....schnitzel. I love me some schnitzel with spaetzel....But let's not go down that road.

Anyway....

I was thinking about simple lovely things and how wrapped up we can all get around Christmas time.

Christmas isn't about lists of what YOU want. It isn't about finding THE gift for the kiddos. It isn't even about gift giving and receiving.

It's about faith and hope and love.
It's about family and friends and neighbors.
And it's about helping people, giving of yourself, and listening to your heart.

Christmas in our house going to be a simple one.

Simple but lovely.

And that's o.k. Actually it's better than o.k. It's perfect. It's really the way it should be.

So, since I'm listening to my heart and I've seen some amazing stuff in the last couple of weeks. Each week of the month of December I'm going to share some of my favorite things.

I hope you'll enjoy it as much as I will! Now go check out that perfume. I promise you won't be let down. Simple divine!

~Thankful~

2009-11-18T16:26:00.006-07:00

What have I been up to for a month, you ask?

Well just to name a few things I've been UP to....

Creating for a show I'm in the next two weekends

A car accident (minor but still ouchy....)

Working for a friend while his assistant has been on maternity leave

Finishing up with Halloween and moving on to Thanksgiving which is now turning into Christmas

Dealing with the fact that my hubs got news his company is closing. Last day January 5th. 6 WEEKS!

Let's see what I have not been UP to....

Cooking

Cleaning

Blogging

Laundry

Working out

But you know what? Today I've decided to be thankful.
A good week to choose to be thankful don't cha think....

I'm thankful for:

My family

My friends

My health

My heart

My creativity

My home

And last but not least Me.

I'm thankful for me.

For each new morning with its light,
For rest and shelter of the night,
For health and food, for love and friends,
For everything Thy goodness sends.
~Ralph Waldo Emerson

Happy Thanksgiving!

What a Difference a Day Makes

2009-10-14T14:32:00.011-06:00

You know those weekends away, albeit few and far between, that make you refreshed and possibly fall in love all over again?

I was lucky enough to have one of those over my anniversary weekend. It was simply blissful.

We ate, we laughed, we walked, we talked....blissful.

Beautiful Breckenridge, Colorado!

I realized while uploading my pictures that I did not take one picture of Main Street. Not one! It is a large but quaint few blocks with shops ranging from mountian gear to a doggie bakery with the cutest Starbucks (that is in an old tiny house) and a crepe cart smack dab in the middle.

Oh the crepes....yummmmmmmmmm!

We did a little hiking up by lake Dillon.

Gorgeous!

Oh yea, remember how I said we ate? And boy did we....
My favorite part of the whole weekend (except for the crepes-yummm again) was our "fancy" dinner out.

Le Petit Paris is an amazing little French Restaurant right off of Main Street. Sisters Arielle and Marie are the sweetest little team and make you feel at home from the moment they take your coat until the usher you out the door and wave goodbye until you are out of sight. Precious.

Just my kind of place. French bisto-esque with while linen table cloths and vintage advertisements all over the walls.

And the food. Well, the food was To. Die. For.

3 course meals that change with the seasons.

I was trying to be sneaky and not bother the people sitting 2 feet from us, who were probably wondering "who is this crazy girl taking pictures of her table".

After ordering that bottle of wine that is now my new favorite, and having some amazing fresh french bread we dined on French Onion soup and a goat cheese salad that I am determined to duplicate. Boeuf Bourguignon that was deconstructed and amazing and profiteroles that were beyond melt in your mouth!

Now I'm hungry....

The weather was beautiful all weekend, it seemed to be in the stars for us.

And yes, even though we were leaving fat and happy I had to end my weekend here....

Of course, before I realized I hadn't taken a picture of my crepe, it was gone....

I'm thinking of opening one of these....it could be a fun opportunity.

But the pounds I would pack on would not agree with me....so maybe not.

Here we are fat and happy (not in that order~giggle~).

Bliss!

HomeGoods Happy

2009-10-13T12:24:00.007-06:00

Don't you just love that feeling when you walk into a shop and a calm comes over you....like you're in your special place....your domain.

That's how I feel when I walk into HomeGoods.

Now, don't get me wrong. I love myself a good antique store. I love the feel of those stores too. And the smell....that smell of timeworn textiles and antiques.

But that gives me a whole other feeling....

The clean, crisp, feeling of HomeGoods, the feeling of knowing there is a special gem in there just waiting for me to find it. Some inexpensive little bauble that is whispering my name. Knowing I enjoy the hunt, and hiding from me on that bottom clearance shelf. Ohhhh it makes me shiver just to think of it.

So when Rhoda over at Southern Hospitality offered up an amazing giveaway and a quiz. I jumped at the chance to find out the definition of my "style".

Per HomeGoods here is their definition of my style. I'd say they're pretty right on!

Laurel, you are a Bohemian Classic

You have a refined sensibility and bring a sense of history and tradition into your decor. You appreciate how symmetrical arrangements and beautiful, well-crafted pieces create a solid foundation to a room. But you like to shake up this restraint with objects and accessories that express your personality and your love of other cultures. When traveling, you seek out unique objects that reflect what you love, and you use them in a sophisticated way. You want people to feel comfortable in your home, and cozy chairs, ethnic fabrics, unique pieces, and even a little touch of quirk or humor give your house a laid-back, Bohemian flair.

You value creativity. You are stylish and fun loving, and can be an inspiration to others. You have a natural sense of drama, and you know you have to be willing to take risks—whether with colors, finishes, furniture choices, or ideas—for your home to stand out. Your home can be happy and lively and the place all of your friends want to be.

Putting Your Style to Work!
With your style and needs in mind, here are a few tips that will help you make your home a little happier.

1. Your Design Challenge: ORGANIZE
The front hall sets the mood for your entire home. Consider how to accommodate all the room's functions as beautifully as possible. At the very least you need a console, and if you're short on storage, consider a dresser. Outfit the surface with nice trays and bowls for mail, keys and sunglasses. Keep a trash can for immediately tossing the junk mail. Closet-door or wall hooks encourage coat and bag hanging rather than dumping. If you have children, try to give each a basket in the closet for hats and gloves. It's nice to have a chair or bench for changing shoes, a mirror for last-minute lipstick checks, and a lamp or sconces for warm light.

2. Your Happy Place
Think of your outdoor space, no matter how small, as rooms, and create distinct areas. A pair of chaises flanking a little side table makes a living room. A lantern hanging from a tree or pergola over a table and chairs makes a dining room. A cluster of potted plants on a patio can create a cozy nook, and a single urn or bench placed at the far end can draw your eye, making a space seem longer. Big lanterns with candles sitting on the ground create a sense of space and give beautiful light. Try out new ideas before you start shopping by taking a photo of your area and laying some tracing paper over the print to draw whatever you're planning first.

3. Be Party-Ready All the Time!
Scent: The first thing you notice about a home is how it smells. Use naturally fragrant cleaning products. If you find a scented candle or fresh potpourri you love, stock up on it. Any scent you like, whether perfume or linen spray, can be used on upholstery, bedding or just spritzed into the air.

Mood: Nice, flattering light makes us feel good. So nix the harsh, direct light from overhead fixtures in favor of the softer glow from floor and table lamps. Also, stock up on some votive candles and a couple of hurricane lanterns for setting around the room.

Food: Devote space in your pantry or on a shelf for go-to party essentials: crackers, dip, chips, nuts—whatever you like to serve. Keep on hand a collection of attractive bowls and cocktail napkins, and you'll be able to set a spread—instantly!

Drink: The simplest and chicest thing is to have a drinks tray or table always set up. Include a mix of pretty glasses, an ice bucket, a lovely pitcher, and bottles of soda and water. When the bell rings, just add ice and limes.

How fun was that! Now it's your turn. If you haven't entered Rhoda's giveaway you have 'til tomorrow. I know, I know, not much time to meet that deadline but you must go....now...It's for 100 bucks people! Who would pass that up? The link is up top....

Even if you miss the giveaway, the quiz is still super fun!

Enjoy and have a great day.

A house is not a home unless it contains food and fire for the mind as well as the body.
~Benjamin Franklin

Let them eat cake!

2009-10-01T22:39:00.012-06:00

Taylor, a lover of all things marshmallow, had a birthday recently.

Since we share an infinity for all things mallow, I decided to make him a S'more cake for his party and surprise him.

Oh how I love surprises....
But only when I get to do the surprising.

Unless of course it's diamonds, or shoes.
But who ever gets surprised with shoes.
No one. And that's too bad....
I wouldn't mind be showered with shoes on my birthday.
Obviously not actually showered, that would really hurt....

Anyway, this very special cake for this very special boy turned out beyond my wildest dreams.

Check it out! Isn't it adorable!!!!

It's chocolate cake with a Jet Puff Marshmallow center that was sprinkled with graham crackers. The cake is topped with buttercream, then fondant.

Yep, this one isn't good for the diet but, it was sooooo worth it!

I personally love how fondant looks on a cake but it doesn't taste half as good as straight buttercream.

After covering the cake. Then rolling out and poking holes in the fondant for the top "graham cracker" I cut Hershey's bars at an angle and used some frosting to keep them in place, as if they were melting right out of the S'more. Yummmmm! Makes me wish I had a campfire right now....

This puppy sure had some WOW factor at the party and all the kiddos wanted to know if it was real.

Well yea! If it looks like a S'more and tastes like a S'more.

It's a S'more.

Then 2 days later I was asked to make a baby shower cake for a precious little girl.

I've always loved cakes that look like packages so.....

White almond cake with almond butter frosting. My specialty!

It was actually humid here that day. Humid doesn't happen very often here in Colorado and of course it was on the day of the baby shower. My bow didn't dry well and wasn't quite as big as I wanted it but everyone was none the wiser! I got so many compliments and everyone wanted my business card.

Yipppeeee!

I have a lot of people requesting cakes now and it's keepin' me busy. It seems I am the new Ace of Cakes around here.

I wish.

~On a side note, today is my 5 year anniversary. The hubs and I are spending the weekend in beautiful Breckenridge, CO and I am super excited. It will be crisp up there and the leaves should be amazing.

Hope you all have a fun filled weekend!

Happy October!

I'd like to thank the Academy.....

2009-09-30T15:50:00.007-06:00

Yes, I've been nominated and I accept this award, on behalf of my family, my wonderful husband, Julie (my starbucks lady), my dog who warms my feet while I write, and of course in hopes of one day achieving.... World Peace.

So since I accepted, and with such grace if I do say so myself....
I have to follow the rules.
Normally I hate rules but since I am now an award winning

I guess I can do it.
Here we go

Rules:

1-Thank the person who nominated you for this award.
2-Copy the logo and place it on your blog.
3-Link to the person who nominated you for this award.
4-Name 7 things about yourself that people may not know.
5-Nominate 7 Kreativ Bloggers.
6-Post links to the 7 blogs you nominate.
7-Leave a comment on each

First things first, thank you Nancy, not only have you inspired me to get my blog up and running but you are a great friend. You are there for me always and rarely tell me no. Even when I ask you to meet me 20 minutes North of where we live to help me unload some flithy dirty pre-war wingback chairs that I picked up for $10. Even when I made you wait for 10 minutes with all three of your kids in tow. What a good friend I am huh!

O.k. kiddos here we go.
7 things you might not know about me....(except for you N, you know A LOT about me...)

1. My 5 year anniversary is Friday. Boy, 5 years has just flown by!

2. When I was 4 years old my sisters car broke down and since I went everywhere my dad went, I hopped into the truck to go with him. I asked him where we were going and he said "To jump Krissy's car". At that moment we were driving down a hill and I said (remember I was 4) "Well we better speed up or we aren't going to make it". I still remember my dad laughing the hardest I have ever heard him laugh. It makes me smile just to think of it. (just incase you didn't get it-I thought we were going to jump over my sisters car-so funny....)

3. I was a dancer in a former life. O.k. in this life I was a dancer, but it just feels like so stinkin' long ago that it has to be a different life than this one, right? Anyway, I was a classically trained ballerina who was in a company all through high school and beyond. I miss it terribly.

4. I have watched 4 episodes of The Real Housewives of Atlanta. I'm ashamed to admit it but I have.

5. I know every word of The Princess Bride. (I stole this one from you N)

6. I was the lead in our city's high school summer musical. I even had a kissing scene. It was awfully embarrassing at first but since he really was the only guy I really wanted to kiss-It was awesome! My very own Zach Efron. I got to kiss him every night for a week, not including rehearsals. (funny thing is my now husband was in the musical with me too-didn't want to kiss him then, but do now!!!!)

7. And last but not least, I'm adopted.

Now on to the Nominations:

Da da da dahhhhhhh

Susie Harris from Bienvienue- this is one creative lady. Check out her signs! Hand painted pure awesomeness.....

Jeanne at A Bushel and a Peck- check out her shop. TO DIE FOR STUFF. Plus her photos and the way she writes, simply inspiring. She's just up the road (or highway, really) from me and I like to keep it local ya know.

Chris at Just a girl- an organizing maniac and I love it. She can show me one cabinet that she has organized and I am off and running.... And, she finds the most amazing stuff at Goodwill and transforms it into something you couldn't have even imagined. Plus, she seems super sweet. What a combo, sweet, organized, and a frugal shopper. My kind of girl.

Ahrisha from Joyously Living Life- this girl loves her essential oils! You should check out her garden. Amazing is all I can say.

Donna at Funky Junk Interiors- her kitchen is gorgeous, her entry way is finished, and her barn, well you have to go check her out. She is one inspiring lady.

Kasey at Lola B's- This girl can write and she is so funny I am still laughing at a joke she told probably a month ago. And she shares not only her "hottie" husband with us but her to die for mailman as well.

Erin over there at Perfect Sentiment- I love to keep the love in this world, ya know. Love the idea that we can all be nice and kind. And Erin, does just that and with weekly meal plans to boot. She makes me feel all warm and cozy and I like that!

No worries ladies, if you choose to not blog about your 7 things. I really just wanted you all to know how great I think each of you are. Some of you might not have know you inspire me so much, so I just wanted to share.

And to N, and P, and H, and D. Really I couldn't have done it without you. You made it all happen and without you I wouldn't be here....
(cut to cheesy award music as I walk off stage, waving my beauty queen wave, with my designer dress flowing at my ankles)

Music makes the world go round....that I know.

2009-09-10T11:11:00.010-06:00

Is there anything that you go to to heal your wounds? Is there a special song or friend or book that helps you move past something hurtful?

Music is what heals me.

I had my feelings hurt by a fellow blogger and I let it get me down.

I am completely aware that I was allowing it to happen, but sometimes it's hard to not let it hurt your heart, just a little.
All the while telling myself to not allow something somewhat silly to hurt my feelers. But it did and now I'm over it.

O.k. I'm almost over it.

Music heals my soul. Music allows me to be me. Music reminds me what I love about life.

Music reminds me that I don't have to worry about other peoples intentions, or what they think, or why they did what they did, when they probably don't even realize the hurt they caused.

So Kasey, over at Lola B's inspired me today. I LOOOOVE her. (sorry Kasey but I do....A lot. Yes, here is me gushing....)

If you, my few little readers, haven't been by her blog to see her...DO IT...GO NOW..No wait finish reading my post first, then go!

She'll make you laugh every single time you read her and her writing makes you wish you had her wit and ability (and her house, all I can say is gorgeous).

I must be channeling her today (I wish) because I've gotten a little distracted....
Kasey tends to do that too. But she is funner than I am....

Anyway, because of Kasey I decided to focus on what I know I can do....

I can cook a Hungarian Pot Roast that is to die for(I'll share someday soon).

I can take a photo that makes me giddy and keeps me that way all day long.

I can be nice and polite to every person I contact throughout a day. (I set out every day with this intention)

I can grow a delish tomato.

I can appreciate the beauty of nature and it can take my breath away.

I can paint like nobody's business.

I can love unconditionally and completely.

I can hardly ever say NO when a friend needs me.

I can sing...and not just in the shower.

I can be best best friend and wife I can possibly be.

I can weld a glue gun and not glue my fingers together.

I can throw an elegant get together and party like a rock star all at the same time.

I can throw a not-so-elegant affair (think Halloween) and try to not be instantly at their feet cleaning it up when someone spills their beer (which is inevitable) on my hardwood floor.

I can plan anything with detailed lists and drawings. A little anal? Guilty as charged.

I can appreciate the good that is in everyone.

I can find a diamond in the rough.

I can bake a white almond cake that is out of this world. Cupcakes too!

I can shop with a budget and stick to it.

I can negotiate with the best of them.

I can fall in love. With shoes. Many many pairs of shoes. The Hubs is sick of hearing me say "they are just so comfortable and adorable. I must have them."

I too can make a mean box of Mac and Cheese!!!

I can control what I put into my body (minus the Mac and Cheese) and live mostly chemical free.

I can appreciate, yet not agree, with other's opinions.

I can rearrange my living room in an afternoon by myself.

I can be inspired by all the creativity in the blogosphere. You ladies are so amazing!

I am a creative and loving person who only has the best intentions and loves her life, her family, her friends, the earth, and herself....

What I know I can do is be me.

I like me.

Noone else has to like me but me right?

And I choose to like me and to not allow others to dictate whether or not I'm inspiring.

Thanks Kasey, for your wit, your insight, sharing your stories, and just being you.

I like you. And I like me too!

Now, I'm gonna go turn up the music really loud and dance!

Life is good.

It's here

2009-08-19T12:50:00.002-06:00

I can't lie.... This morning it was difficult.

My bed was saying "Bundle up and stay a while" but my head was saying "Time to wakey wakey and start your day".

There is nothing like when the air turns crisp and the first hint of fall shows it's face in the mornings. The mornings in the garden are no longer sunny and warm. They require fleece pants and slippered feet, rather than shorts and flip flops.

The wood was more weathered than usual, or so it seems. All glistening with dew from yet another midnight rain/hail storm. The garden doesn't like the hail but everyone seemed to be doing just fine despite the cold this morning. The geraniums made it through and seem to be quite happy about all this rain!
At the end of the day, the clouds form again. Soon the leaves will change, and the crispness will stay.

Then maybe, I along with my garden, can hibernate for a while. Myself in my bed and all my lovelies in theirs. Fall is here.

Isn't it Thai-riffic!

2009-08-12T16:28:00.011-06:00

O.k. that was just silly. I mean Thai-riffic. Just silly. Anyway, I just had to share this recipe with you because it is mmmm-mmm good and so easy peasy that anyone can do it.
My version of Thai-riffic (o.k. it stuck) Chicken Wraps.
I altered a version of Rachel Ray's Thai Chicken Wraps, so I guess It's part hers and part mine, either way, it's DEVINE. Now if you've never had Thai food, don't worry. This is one simple recipe that I dare you to try to mess up. Ya just can't. Plus, it's really just like a stir fry but so super yummy that you'll make it again and again and again. Well, you get the idea.
Alrighty, on to the recipe.

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts

1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
1/4 c. sweet chili sauce
1/3 c. honey
1 tsp extra virgin olive oil
Salt and Pepper
1 lime

Handful of fresh Basil

Dash of red chili flakes (opt.)
1 Iceberg head of lettuce
1 c. cooked brown rice

Now you see green pepper here because when my hubs brought home the red pepper it was moldy! ewwww!
Start up your brown rice now (or really much earlier cuz this only takes about 15 minutes or so).
For this recipe I used a cup of white rice because the hubs brought home a new brand of brown rice and it takes an hour to cook. So we settled for white, I was up for quick and simple not long and nutritional. We still got the nutritional with a tinsey bit of white. Oh well.

Cut the chicken breasts into thin strips. This chicken was cut into strips that were way to big. I don't know who did that but they should have known better.... now salt and pepper the chicken.

Turn on your the stove to medium/medium high and add approx. 1 tsp of Olive Oil. I don't measure but around one turn of a medium sized pan gets you about 1 tsp or so. Add chicken to pan and cook until golden brown on each side.

*Here is my quick tip regarding the chicken. When you first add the chicken to the hot pan let it sit for a few minutes. Let the first side get nice and brown and don't move it around. If you do the chicken will just tear apart and it will be unevenly cooked. I know it's hard to wait and you'll question it but really, don't move it until you see the underside gettin' all nice and toasty. Then turn and continue to turn until all sides are toasty roasty. Then add in red, uh I mean green (the green aren't nearly as good because they aren't as sweet as the red, oh well) bell peppers and cook until peppers are soft. RR says about 3 minutes.

Next, your gonna need that red pepper sauce. You can find this glorious stuff usually on the top shelf of the oriental section of your supermarket. Just look for what says sweet chili sauce and you have a winner. My hubs uses this stuff on everything now. It is tangy sweet deliciousness. Is that a word?

Add to the pan the sweet chili sauce and honey and let it start to bubble. Then turn down to Medium Low and let simmer to reduce sauce to about half. All the while stirring to coat the chicken. Add in rice and stir.

O.k here is another hint but one you might already know. When cutting the Basil, bunch it up like so, and cut it thinly. It really is the easiest way to cut Basil and it will make nice little ribbons. So pretty for garnishing!

Cut the head of lettuce in half and find the best cups.

Fill each cup with just enough chicken mixture. Don't overfill or you can't pick these puppies up with your hands. That's the only way to eat them!

Top each cup with a little Basil and a squeeze of lime juice. Don't skip the lime. It is devine! ;)

My camera died right before the final pic so this is missing the basil and the dash of chili flakes for my hubs but really, Isn't she lovely. Isn't she wonderful. Isn't she precious. Less than one minute old. O.k. pure silliness. Sorry. I'll stop.

Is your stomach grumbling yet? Mine is. Bon Appetit!

Knock? Knock?

2009-08-06T18:20:00.012-06:00

It's DIY day over at ASPTL and thank you Kimba for making me get this simple little project done, finally. It's one of those easy ones that you think you'll do one of these days but personally I generally take on the bigger, more time consuming projects first, like new floors or the painted cabinets I'm currently working on. So, getting this done and reaping the benefits of doing something simply but beautifully just makes me giddy. I can't wait to do the next one.

If I'm still alive.

These cabinets might just kill me...No really...They might.

During the summer our front door is open 80% of the time so I stare at this ugly thing day in and day out. How have I put off this project for so long?

Do you like the big red NO SOLICITORS sign? Yep, it was there when we moved in and up until yesterday was still there! You would think that would keep the Comcast and security companies from ringing my door bell, but no. They must not be able to read simple english....
No soliciting at this zoo people!

I got out the tools and pried off that ugly red sign and boy, it wasn't easy but GONE!

Thank goodness...it was about time.

And what do you think of the lovely plaque that is glued, and I mean SUPER DUPER glued, in the center of our front door. I have tried to pry this puppy off but I was always afraid of breaking it and having a big chunk of ceramic just hanging on my door. At least I could cover this up with various Happy Fall or Happy Winter signs since it doesn't always feel like a zoo around here. Not always.

So out came the paint that was leftover from my sisters bathroom DIY project. I can't tell you what color it is because I didn't buy it but it's a nice warm tanish earthy color. I covered the blue up really well and even though I could have gotten away with one coat, why when this project is so simple and fast? 2 coats did it and even covered up the inviting entrance to the zoo!

I painted the trim black and distressed it a bit. I may have distressed it a little too much for my liking but that's an easy fix. I'm going to live with it for a day or two then we'll see. I cut a piece of scrapbooking paper and fit it to the zoo sign. Ahh it already feels so much better!

Luckly, I have this handy dandy little machine

I cut out the all the necessary letters to finish this little project

Nope, you're right... I didn't iron that runner before putting it on my table.

I used transfer tape to lay out the letters and ensure that they are all straight and spaced correctly. Then transfer the letters onto the door. I suggest always using transfer tape. I like things to be straight and this allows you to see your project before that, you can't turn back, stage.

My transfer tape was too short for the whole word so I applied the other letters first then added the E. Again, transfer tape allowed me to make some adjustment to make sure my E wasn't askew. I burnished the letters to the door a little to ensure there were no air bubbles.

Then I just pulled off the transfer tape at a 45 degree angle and voila!

Isn't she gorgeous, all sunshiney and happy.

Now for that pesky zoo sign I added an S for our last name and the year we were married.

I love it! The black goes well with our wrought iron on the front porch and the tanish color blends in nicely with, well everything. Some day I might change that S to a monogram but until then I am so happy to say I will be greeting by this every single day!

The soul should always stand ajar, ready to welcome the ecstatic experience.

~Emily Dickinson

Just a little ditty about TLC

2009-07-30T15:24:00.000-06:00

If you haven't heard of the amazingly talented and beautiful (inside and out) Layla Palmer, you MUST go and check out her blog and read about her newest venture.

Not only does Layla, of The Lettered Cottage, have a thriving design consultation business she does commissioned pet portraits, sells her quote and good jars (which I LOVE and have given as a gift), works with her mom on shell boxes, and her and her adorable hubby also have Lettered Cottage Art (which I love as well).

Now if you haven't been over there then you might not know how talented her hubs is too!

Sorry Layla, but I have to share just a little about your adorable and just as talented hubby. Kevin is not only A-dor-able and just as goofy but he is a musician (swoon) and not just any musician. He is the lead in a band, and a band that I really like! How did these two find each other (in a bar, none the less)? So, I guess what I am trying to say is over there at TLC they are all talented, I think even their little pooch Max has talent in his blood!

O.k back to the real reason for this post. Sorry I'm a sucker for both musicians and cutie-patootees, so Kevin had to get a shout out!

This talented little lady is the reason I am blogging. I adore her style, her attitude, her drive and determination, and her real goofy self, which we don't get to see enough of!

Ehm... more instructional videos or fun "day in the life of" videos Layla (and Kevin) PLEASE!

So if you haven't guessed it Layla has been my inspiration and she continues to inspire me each and every day.

Her new venture with her friend Sarah has just begun but I know it will be just one more thing that Layla is great at.

If you haven't been there already please go visit Lettered Cottage Home and give them some love. Once you are there, I know you will just love everything Lettered Cottage like I do! There is a reason that The Lettered Cottage's initials are TLC. Every thing that girl touches receives a little of her TLC!

Good luck Layla and Sarah. I wish you only the best in all that you do!

Cafe Curtain Cover Up

2009-07-27T12:41:00.000-06:00

It's Make your Monday at Twice Remembered and I'm sharing this Cafe Curtain Cover Up!
When remodeling our house we took out some old closets and made this bookcase cubby out of a corner of our master bedroom. It sat like this forever.

I can't believe I even shared that mess. Fabric, batting, old sweaters for felting, oh my!
So I needed something simple yet beautiful to cover up this crazy cubby.

I am constantly inspired by Nester to mistreat my home. It was wayyyy past time to do something about this cubby, so mistreatment it is.

I bought a cafe curtain at Wally World for about 3 bucks and the clips at a K-Mart that is going about of business for .75 cents! Whoo hooo! My plan is now in action and for only $3.75. The hubs can't complain about that!

When I found this King Flat sheet at Marshalls (I sing when I say Marshalls because I oh so love them sooo sooo much) on Clearance for $5 (I think). It is the softest material ever, and I am going to make pillows out of what is left of the sheet when I'm done. How about that for coordinating fabrics in the Master Bedroom!

Yes, yes it is Ralph Lauren, which made me love it even more. So classic! (although very wrinkly)

I just measured my cubby and multiplied it by two, to ensure I had enough fabric for my folds. Then I folded over the edge like so....

Very Nester inspired eh? Then started folding material in the middle and worked my way out so that at least the fold in the middle would be centered. It doesn't have to be perfect to be beautiful but I do have a thing about centering stuff, and right angles. I have a thing about right angles...Anyway.....

I made a little box pleat for the front, pretty part of the fold. Then folded approx the same size folds in on each side. Overlapping a little on the back so that when I clip them everything stays put!

Then clip them up. The teeth on these clips make this work really well. It holds all of the fabric in place!

For the ends I made a little box pleat again but just folded the end under and clipped.

Voila! Now the end is kinda poofy like the other pleats. It stands out from the edge of the cubby nicely.

Grab your cafe curtain from where you laid it against the wall.

Screw in your cafe curtain holders. Heh couldn't think of the name of these at the moment so that works, right? I measured my fabric to be about an inch off of the floor but had to put the "holders" a little bit higher to ensure that the fabric covered the cubby holes. That's the point of this right?

Hang the mistreatment on the cafe rod.

And Voila! A perfect little cafe curtain cover up. Much better than the cabinet doors we were originally going to use. And the doors were $40 each. Total for this cute little cover up = $8.75

Does it get any better than that? Well, I'm off to check on everyone else's Make your Monday's.

Have a great week everyone!

Peace

2009-07-24T22:45:00.000-06:00

There's this little place I take the pups, that gives me peace. Lately, I kick myself everytime I'm there because it is so green and beautiful yet I never seem to have my camera (which is very unlike me) but yesterday....
No kicking involved. Thank goodness, I was starting to bruise....

This beautiful little trail grounds me, inspires me, fills my lungs with fresh air and appreciation for this wonderful little planet we inhabit.

We've had so much rain which makes everything so earthy green yet the sky is so blue you could swim in it....

The black eyed susans wink at me as I pass by. Their sunshiny smiles bathing in the rays, seemingly enjoying the peace just as much as I am....

I think the pups feel the same way. Even though I make them pose for pictures, at least it was shady in this nature made alcove. Even with hummingbirds wizzing by and squirrels taunting them, they sat like good children and tried not to roll their eyes when I said "Smile"....

I do not want the peace that passeth understanding. I want the understanding which bringeth peace. ~ Helen Keller

Have a peaceful, wonderful weekend in your neck of the woods!

Wow what a Dickens of a weekend!

2009-07-21T14:06:00.000-06:00

Whew! What a weekend. Needless to say I didn't have time to finish that Nester inspired Mistreatment but soon, I promise, I'll share. BUT, I found some treasures this weekend and managed to pack in a music festival with some amazing artists, so all in all a productive weekend, I'd say.

My sister, Kelly and I headed out antiquing in a little town about 35 minutes from her house. She was specifically looking for a vintage light fixture for her newly remodeled bedroom. She didn't find what she was looking for but I did....
Check out this old firehouse ladder. I wanted it badly! It was a little too expensive for my budget and the rungs were round which wouldn't work to use as a shelf leaning against my wall. Not perfect so I let it go. :(

I found these posts in the back of a shop somewhat hidden. $35 each and they were huge! Like 12 ft tall! I had visions of cutting them in half and using them on my posts on the back porch as a sort of faux post. Or using one in the front yard with a light on top, as a sort of lamp post. Oh I might have to go back for these now!

How about this chicken coop! It would look fantastic on top of my china hutch! Again, a little pricey at $75 but it was quite huge as well. Plus the tag read "Primitive chicken coop-NO POOP" and that made me laugh out loud!

Now this, I really wanted and it is so much prettier than the picture portrays. An antique barn door table never restored. It was so beat up and beautiful and still had the holes from the hinges. I LOVED IT! But before I could spend too much time drooling over it right behind it was this big beautiful black monstrosity. What could it be, shoved up against the wall and barely showing behind the chairs and dressers (that I promptly moved out of the way)?

My sister is trying to find the price tag (maybe behind it?-as she pulled it away from the wall.) Kelly is all of 5'2" (if she is lying) so you can see how BIG this beauty is. So I casually say "do you want me to see how much it is?" with the response of "yes, it would look great in my entry" Not that she was really going to buy it. It must be expensive, I think to myself.
I cannot explain the detail in this piece and the lighting was horrible for taking pictures but I sure did try to capture the beauty.

At the top each side had a woman carved into it and her carved skirt flowed all the way to the floor.

The umbrella stand had a pristine tin box and I just continued to wonder not only at the condition of this piece but where did it come from?

Well, as I demurely ask if this piece is for sale the owner tells me with a knowing look on her face that it has a very special history. It is from the mid 1800's and was once owned by Charles Dickens! A CHARLES DICKENS PIECE-ON THIS SIDE OF THE MISSISSIPPI. O.k. anyone who doesn't shop in Colorado doesn't know that it is a true treasure to come across something like this in the little town Florence. We really have to dig for treasures out here! Needless to say, it wasn't for sale which leads to the sad part of this story. A woman in Denver bought this hall tree and Dickens' writing desk at a Sothebys auction many years ago for $15,000(just the hall tree price). For some reason she needed to liquidate some of her assets and choose to keep the desk but sell this lovely piece. She had contracted with a couple of auction houses and Antique shops to sell her wares and during the move, the paperwork that should have been sent with this piece was stolen or lost. Sotheby's is not interested in reproducing the paperwork because if the paperwork was stolen there may be a fake out there with her legitimate paperwork. So here sits this beautiful piece of work just waiting for a home. Isn't it absolutely gorgeous.

After she told me the history, I had to go back and just touch it for a while. I still can't believe behind all those chairs and dressers this beautiful treasure sits, waiting to be of some use to someone again some day. I hope it finds a home. It would break my heart for a little piece of history to be lost at the back of a shop in Florence, CO of all places.

After that insanely exciting day of antiquing, the hubs and I spent the whole next day at the Mile High Music Festival with our good friends Tom and Nancy.

What a day full of music, food, friends, and heat! Boy was it hot but so much fun.

We were introduced to a new band (gotta love music festivals for this) The Black Keys. Wow were they A-MAZ-ING! They have been around awhile I guess, but I am so glad I got to hear them live really they are great! We snuck up to the front row to see this two person band. Only two musicians and you would NEVER know it. Again Amazing.

The whole day we listened to some great music! Everything from Needtobreathe, G-Love, Ben Harper, to Tool, Incubus, and Wide Spread Panic. Interesting selection huh?

After a day of resting on the grass, listening to some tunes, and munching on everything from some delicious chicken and basil dumplings to funnel cake (nice combo eh?) we decided it was time to go. Not before I snapped a few shots to share.

My friend Nancy won't like that I am sharing this pic but I love it. No posing or anything. It's hard to catch this girl off guard but here she is-the real Nancy! And our tired, tanned, blistered and weary feet after a full day of fun!

Love and Marriage and Zucchini Lasagna

2009-07-13T12:04:00.000-06:00

I can't get that song from Married with Children out of my head. Love and marriage, love and marriage. Go together like a horse and carriage. Ackkkk! O.k. maybe if I share a receipe I can stop thinking about the wedding that I "worked" at this weekend and stop singing that damb song!

My friend Julie has been waiting patiently for a receipe from me so I figured I've made her wait long enough and did something special just for her!

How about some Zucchini Lasagna my friends. Pasta free. I know I know. You gotta love the pasta but this is really the best low carb recipe I've come up with and you would NEVER know there wasn't any Lasagna noodles in it. It is FAB!

O.k. Jewels I hope you have a pen handy. This ones for you!

Laurel's Amazing (yes amazing) Zucchini Lasagna:

What you'll need:

2 or 3 medium zucchini
1/2 lb ground beef
1/2 lb Italian sausage
1 small onion chopped
1 can chopped tomatoes
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tbsp Italian seasoning or mix dried oregano, basil and thyme
1/4 c water
1 egg
3/4 c ricotta cheese
1/2-1 c shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tsp cornstarch (or flour)
Salt and Pepper

Slice zucchini no larger than 1/4 inch wide, in between 1/8 and 1/4 is perfect for our pretend noodles.

In a large skillet on med to med low heat melt a dab of butter and brown zucchini on both sides. Feel free to dash with salt and a bit of pepper.

When zucchini is done, in same skillet cook on med to med high the onions, ground beef and sausage until browned and onions are tender.

In a large pot add tomato paste, chopped tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and water. Add in meat mixture and bring to a boil.

Let this simmer about 10 minutes or until it is reduced to about 2 cups.

While this is coming to a boil and your meat is cooking, in a small bowl beat an egg just slightly
and add in ricotta, 1/4 c shredded cheese (I always use more cheese than this) and cornstarch and mix well.

Sorry Jewels I guess I didn't get a good picture of the layering process. But we all know how to layer a lasagna right?

So.... In a large baking dish (I use a ladle, keeps it from being too messy and you can use the back of it to move the sauce around) scoop out enough sauce to just cover bottom of pan. Top with half of the sliced zucchini and top zucchini with cottage cheese mixture. In that order. Then repeat. Meat, Zucchini, then Cheese.

Bake UNCOVERED at 375 degrees F for 30 minutes.

Check to make sure it doesn't bubble over!

Sprinkle with excess cheese (again I use extra cheese and sometimes at mix in a little shredded Parmesan with the Mozzarella-Yum) and bake about 10-15 minutes longer. I like my cheese on top to be slightly brown.

Now this is important. Lasagna is like a good steak or a beautiful roast. It MUST rest. If you cut it too soon (especially this one because the zucchini has so much water in it) it will fall apart and ooze everywhere. Let it stand at LEAST 10 minutes before serving. I know it's hard. Just ask my husband who understands the principles of this but is like a child latched on to my leg while I drag him out of the kitchen with promises of toys and ice cream if he behaves.

O.k. so I don't have an after picture. I am sure it was because the hubs got home just as that 10 minutes was finishing up (lucky for me it wasn't earlier i.e., toys and ice cream) and he just had to eat because it smelled sooooo good. O.k. I am sure I just HAD to eat too! This is going to be a staple because there is no white flour pasta and extra veggies and from a girl who loves her pasta, I really didn't miss it.

I hope you love it as much as I do. Bon Appetit! or should I say Buon Appetito!
Either way, Enjoy!

Tomorrow I'll show how inspiring the Nester is to me and how I had an Epiphany that I don't have to sew perfectly or paint perfectly or for that matter be perfect at anything. As she says, "It doesn't have to be perfect to be beautiful".
However, my project is perfect (in a no sew, no iron and off the cuff kinda way) and beautiful.

3 Inspirations and a Wedding....

2009-06-29T12:52:00.000-06:00

Have you ever been shopping without any pretenses on what you will buy? That's my favorite kind of shopping. Going in with an open mind and heart and listening to what the clothes tell you (or anything else you are shopping for; accessories, antiques, furniture, etc.). Then when you actually find that one thing that you do need and it is magically just perfect on you. You look and feel like a princess. I don't usually want to feel like a fairy tale type princess but when I am feeling like this princess:

I am giddy.
When the bride requested we all wear little black dresses I never thought I would find something so perfect that it makes me feel like Princess Grace.
I'm. in. Love.

Since I always have been so inspired by Grace Kelly as a style icon, especially before she became a real life Princess, I am looking for some classic but fancy shoes that fit this wonderful dress.
How about these Stuart Weitzman little lovelies, they are called Gigi.

I adore them. Open toe, classic. Ruffle, adorable. Heel, sophisticated. Perfection!

I'm always so inspired on Mondays. Peaceful weekends=time to dream about redecorating every room in my house and perusing magazines to find new projects I just MUST do.

This is what inspired me this weekend.

While shopping for a wedding present, from across the room these beauties cast out a glimmer and put a twinkle in my eye. I could not get across that room fast enough to look at them up close. Gotta love Ralph Lauren!

Up close they don't look like "Mandarin" should be their name. The etching is so detailed and gorgeous. It really inspired me to try some new things with my glass etching.

Check out this vase!

Yep, I'm going to have to find some glass vases and use this "Mandarin" inspiration!

I am loving all things with bows and ruffels. I always have been drawn to them but not like lately. I think it might be the girly dress I'm about to wear (that funny enough, doesn't have a bow).

The fact that this is from Anthropologie well, only makes me adore it more.

The Bow Tied set has a matching duvet and dust ruffle but the pillows really speak to me. It is feminine but not too much so and the creamy color is absolutely perfect. I think my hubs might go for it....Maybe?

And last but not least oh, that Sarah Richardson. You gotta love her! This chair is divine:

The velvet and that piping! I can only image how this feels when you sit on it. Pure luxury. And those legs. I am coveting this chair. I see myself sitting in it and reading for hours and hours. Beautiful!

So now that I am all inspired, off to do something!
Hmmm what to do first. That is always the question.

I hope you have an inspiring Monday.

If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with success unexpected in common hours.

Henry David Thoreau

Yard Sale Stealing

2009-06-22T14:30:00.000-06:00

What happens when you find something you have been looking for for years and it is only $10 at a yard sale? Well, you snatch it up and as you walk out with a little smirk on your face, you secretly feel like you are getting away with STEALING!Isn't she a beauty? If you can't tell by now most of my little lovelies are either a he or a she depending on how they feel to me. She is just too pretty and the green patina on the base matches the color scheme I am working towards in the kitchen. I'm going to be painting my cabinets soon and this scale only helped me solidify my plans.

I was originally inspired by Layla at The Lettered Cottage (she inspires me with every post-check out her cabinets! They are gorgeous, as is the rest of her house) because early on in her blog she showed a couple of scales and what she did with one of them as a trash to treasure project, but this one isn't going to be painted! I think she is perfect just the way she is. After playing around with where she should live I decided to (for now) have her live on top of my mothers antique silverware chest, next to my rustic birdhouse. I'm keeping my eye out for just the right bowl to place on top for Granny Smith apples or onions or whatever we have access of around the house. I am so glad I didn't have too much guilt about "stealing" her because she makes me smile almost every day. Isn't it lovely how simple things can make you happy for a lifetime!
Ain't life sweet?

Weekend in a tent

2009-06-17T12:48:00.000-06:00

Well, finally we were able to get out of the city and took ourselves to the mountains to camp. It is mighty late for us to just be getting out for our first time!

If only it was in this kind of tent:

(I can see myself spending a whole summer in THAT tent)

As we were packing up to head out, our precious pup decided she just couldn't wait any longer. She parked herself in the car and waited patiently for us to get ourselves together. She tried to hide her exasperation but you could tell she was twiddling her thumbs and rolling her eyes at us everytime we made a trip to the car.

We happened upon a new spot that is only about 35 miles away and it was beautiful. This is the path to the site and the view from behind our tent:

Behind us was a mountain side of large granite rock that when you hiked up it revealed a big open meadow on the other side. Did I mention how it was beautiful, because it was?

Nature always inspires me but this time, with the new colors of the granite, the river and everything being so green this year I wanted to take "swatches" from everything so that I could incorporate each and every color into my home. This trip really rejuvinated my spirit!

On Sunday it rained and thundered for quite a while. We had all the gear packed up except for the tent (thank goodness) so we hung out in there while it rained. I love the rain in the mountains! It was beautiful but the hubs and the dogs were getting a little antsy and that lends itself to complete silliness.

So, now that we have had such a wonderful weekend, it was time to go home.

For some of us that isn't the worst part of the trip:

Ask and you shall receive

2009-06-11T14:20:00.000-06:00

But I didn't ask!

But you see, I have great friends. My wonderful friend tells me last night she has a suprise for her I can't spend a dime right now friend, and this is her sweet and oh so thoughtful gift.

Isn't he handsome?

And here is his mate:

Isn't she darling? She isn't a really frilly or fussy girl but that's what I love about her. They are a little beat up but I like that too! They have been on adventures together, they've seen the world! I could make up a thousand stories about where they've been together and what they've seen.

So after obessively contimplating where these little gems should go I stacked them on the end of the loveseat.

Added our precious little shamrock, some old jars and a leaf tealight holder (I'm a mountain girl and I love leaves like ocean lovers love shells)

And voila!

I would like to add one more suitcase so that the stack is a little taller and can actually be used as a end table. But for now it is just perfect! But, I might add some books under that plant though, hmmm.

So, that inspired me to make our antique hall tree look just as pretty.

I added a basket full of magazines on the awkward bottom shelf along with an old soda crate filled with little treasures and our umbrellas because lately we have needed those on hand. It has been so rainy here!

I am going to add an old steel letter Z that my dad has in the lower left corner of the crate but I just couldn't wait to get it from him to take these pictures!

Some fresh flowers and an old tin canister and presto, new charm to my old hall tree.

So, sweet and thoughtful Nancy, thank you. You have just made a little corner of my world a happier place!

THIS used to be a potting shed!

2009-06-01T12:02:00.000-06:00

When I first found Heather Cameron's gorgeous greenhouse I was instantly inspired. As a wedding gift her husband dismantled an old potting shed and rebuilt it as this amazing little space. When he was rebuilding it he used 11 windows that were from salvage, using some on the roof as well for a greenhouse effect. This pic is the only one that gives you a glimpse of what this little potting shed gem used to look like in its previous lifetime.

When his wife took over the decorating it became a masterpiece.

Let's take a look inside!

Can you believe how beautiful this is. So bright and shiny, so lovely! See those Chandys, they aren't even wired but I almost bet that they don't need to be, when the sun hits them I am sure they bounce rainbows over every little surface. See the Milkglass and Jadeite wares tucked above an old wood door that she cut into two and made shelves out of each piece. That's my kind of girl! I will be doing that. Any smart use of an old door pulls on my heartstrings.

I love the use of pictures in this space! In my minds eye (or in my imaginary greenhouse) I see them all suspended on a wide colored ribbon with a number stenciled down at the bottom. Also, how great is that ladder as a display case of sorts. I feel the need to lean it up against a the wall but I am inspired to use this on my back porch! And the metal tub housing those beautiful hydrangeas, the only thing missing is a number, how great would a big number 2 look on the front of that tub. Sigh, I just can't get enough.

Tucked inbetween that adorable display ladder and her linen covered couch is a stack of vintage luggage used as an end table. I have been scouring the antique markets and yard sales for luggage just like these for quite a while now, to do this very same thing. They make great storage as well for extra linens and pillows. Throw down a jute rug from IKEA and voila instant coziness! I want to start my mornings here, cup of coffee in hand and birds singing their happy wake up songs.

I did notice that there are NO letters or numbers in this space at all! I would say that that is the only thing missing from this stunning space. I see coffee bag pillows, a letter tucked up on those fun shelves along with maybe a plate adorned with a number, another number hidden on the top of the ladder, and a big L above the entry.

Wouldn't this be a great little place for a tea party! I can already envision the menu and there is no need for extra decorations, this place is already perfect.

Well thank you Heather for allowing us into your adorable potting er...greenhouse!

Needless to say I wish this would have been my wedding gift.

One of My Favorites!

2009-05-28T12:08:00.000-06:00

The Nester is having a party! I'm so excited because she is one of my favorite bloggers!

I got up this morning and while having my morning coffee I sat on my back porch and daydreamed about this little soiree. What shall I wear, what should I bring for the hostess, should I bring my famous apple dip, and of course what shoes am I going to wear? If only this was a real party I'd be set.

But instead I am prepping myself for Lampapalooza. Still in daydream mode I took myself out to the store to buy more dog food for the pups and out of the corner of my eye I see the word-

FREE! MOVING SALE-FREE EVERYTHING MUST GO!

I screeched to a halt, parked as fast as I could because what was sitting right next to that free sign.... A bunch of old Ball and Kerr canning jars and these:

Can you believe it? It must be meant to be!

I am having a love/hate relationship with the shades. I keep eyeing those tassels and thinking about the Nester! And having a inner conversation with myself deciding whether or not to paint the bases. To paint or not to paint? That is the question....

So these are the other the wares that I picked up for FREE!

3 lamps, 3 large canning jars, 2 small canning jars, 1 additional lampshade (red) and the tray that all the goodies are sitting on. The small jar that I put the votive in says Long Life on it. I love a double meaning.

Good thing because I certainly couldn't purchase anything like these lamps right now. We are in a budget crunch so I think this was heavens way of opening up and shining light on these beautiful little lamps. FREE! I am just giddy!

O.k. on to the real Lampapalooza.....

Here is the eclectic group of lamps I own:

This this my most favorite lamp in the house

When my hubs was little is dad owned a little bakery called Tiffany's and this is one of the lamps that hung in the shop. Isn't it adorable! It is now hanging in the office over a rocking chair that is patiently awaiting me choosing some new fabric to cover it with. The lamp just recently stopped lighting up so I need to rewire it, then it will be ready for some rocking & reading!

These little beauties actually came from Partylite. Yes, a Partylite party that I hosted. They are lit by a votive that lends itself to romance! It is paired with this other little beauty that hangs above the bed. Light them both and BAM! Instant romance for the boudoir! Nothing wrong with that.

This lampless lamp is from Pottery Barn:

Sorry the pic is fuzzy. Don't know why that is.

Again, it needs to be wired but I really liked the look of the chain without the cord so I've been putting it off. But I recently made a trip to our new big Goodwill hoping to find a little treasure and I found this:

And I think it might just be perfect. I think it was $8 with a 7 day warranty!

Man, I should have gotten it right then and there....

And last but certainly not least is this little simple one:

We got this for our wedding and I have always loved the lamp base but the lampshade is screaming to be covered (and adorned with a tassel from the Nester) and I think I might change it like this. Oh, I think I might do it to the red lampshade I picked up this morning too!

Thank you Nester for hosting this lovely little party and for introducing me to not only a new way to cover my lamp shades but for making me daydream about parties to come.

Now off to argue with myself....

To paint or not to paint....

Home Sweet Home

2009-05-27T14:47:00.000-06:00

I love where I live. I love the town, the fact that I can be in the mountians in 5 minutes flat, the people, the air, the climate, the diversity, and of course the beauty.

But today and every year about this time I am ever so grateful to live here because of this:

Or better yet this:

The Airforce Thunderbirds were in town for the Air Force Academy graduation and boy was it an amazing show. The BEST free airshow you will ever see.

They were right over my head! Here is a close up:

The roar of the engines the whistle that lets you know that they are right on top of you! Amazing!

Usually I stay home to watch them because their flight pattern puts them right over my house but today I was lucky enough to be up on the north side of town and got to see the whole show up close and personal. They do so many acrobatics and it is just amazing. I wish I could put into words what it is like.

They do tricks like this one:

This was especially cool. They all flew straight up in formation and split at the top. Then came back down to oh, probably 8,000 feet (we sit just over 6,000 feet) and buzzed the AFA stadium (which is the middle green space in the pic-kinda hard to see) all at once but coming from different directions. It's not easy to see in the second pic but the jet streams all come together at once. I've seen this done before but everytime it is just as cool as the first time. I know I am gushing but it really was amazing (can I say amazing more?) and I am still riding on the buzz I got from watching it! O.k. one more picture to show you how beautiful my surroundings are:

In the right hand side of the pic you can just barely see them flying in formation, right past Pikes Peak. Isn't she beautiful, the Peak I mean. Still all covered in snow.

How lucky I am!

Just a little getaway

2009-05-26T11:33:00.001-06:00

Since I spent the weekend NOT camping like we normally do and instead updated and decluttered (ahhhhhhh) my studio, that my hubs lovingly calls the shed, I wanted to share some inspiration. We have plans this summer to add a large shed to the open mud pit that we have in the corner of our back yard. It is a mud pit now because it has been raining here everyday!

I LOVE IT! Not the mud of course.

Sorry, back to the getaway.

First off how beautiful is this little garden retreat with the sun shining on it just so.... and the Adirondack chair just waiting for me to come, book in hand, and soak up some rays.

But really, this little heaven isn't quite as functional for me as it is just beautiful, so I went looking for something a little more practical.

Then I found this....

As simple and pretty as it is it just wasn't enough.

Oh, wait... Here we go...

Can you see the little table in there? I envision a cheerful little chandelier hanging from the ceiling bouncing light off of everything in its presence, and a little buffet table in the corner to easily treat my guests to bellinis or mojitos with mint pulled straight from the garden.
Would you like to come?

How do you do?

2009-05-21T10:32:00.001-06:00

Thanks to my wonderful friend Nancy my camera is now operational! So on to the sharing.

This is me, Laurel and my dearest hubby Pete. Cute picture eh? My hubs isn't too fond of this picture I think because he has his old wire rimmed glasses on. But I love it even though his new glasses look so much better on him:)

And here are our "children"

Haley is on the right. She is a 10 year old Border Collie mix that we rescued from the pound. She is my sunshine. I love her so much sometimes it hurts. She is the perfect pet. She loves her walks and especially going to the dog park where she can do her own thing now that she isn't quite as quick on her feet as she was when she was younger. And she loves her fenced in front yard so that she can try to herd all the cars and people who dare to come near the fence. On the left, well his name is D-O-G (deeogee). Yes, you heard right D-O-G. My sister so lovingly picked him up off the street when he almost got hit by a car. He was only 6 months old and very cute (aren't all puppies cute at 6 months). Her big black lab didn't like the company he provided so he stayed with us for the time being (yeah right). Since it was just for the time being we gave him a generic name. We didn't want to call him "it" or "boy" so we called him D-O-G. My sister promised me she would find him a home since we were in the process of moving to another city. And, she did. He is still here with us wreaking havoc and pulling down curtains. He is now 8 so we have had a bit of a repreve of the curtain destroying but generally when we think that we are in the clear, down comes another pair of curtains and a destroyed curtain rod. I have been buying my curtain rods at Ross and TJ Max to save some money because boy, does that get expensive when you are having to buy them time and time again, especially for the big picture window in the front of the house. It is a wonder why we haven't killed him yet.

The best part about naming him D-O-G is when the vet (or anyone else for that matter) asks how to spell his name. Hilarious!

Oh and yes, they match. Both black with white chests and feet and we are often asked if they are the same breed. That makes me laugh since she is a Boarder Collie and he is a Pit Bull mix. But they are the best of friends and I am lucky to have them both.

P.S. I did have to hold a little piece of cheese up to get them to look at the camera. They are pretty well behaved but not so much as so sit and pose on the porch in front of my flowers for the "perfect" picture.

That's it for now. It is raining here in Colorado and I love it. Yea spring!!

Work in Progress

2009-05-20T13:47:00.000-06:00

I've been having some trouble with my camera so I had this post planned today to introduce you to me and my family and humble abode but since I have no pictures. No post.

Oh well, maybe tomorrow.

And Finally Hope.....

2009-05-15T16:16:00.000-06:00

Well Hello!

I'm Bay aka Laurel and I welcome you to my journey.

Pandora's Cottage really started in 2002 when my darling hubs and I bought what we thought was the PERFECT house for our family of four (two furbabies). It is a small 1,200 sq ft cottage located in beautiful Colorado and when we decided to start ripping down walls and ceilings and windows (oh my) it brought on ills, toils, sickness, and finally hope (just like Wikipedia states about Pandora's box).

So here we are, still in process. After replacing all the cardboard walls, yes a cardboard like material, with actual drywall and taking down all the pink, yes pink, trim that was layered over itself all over the house, we found good bones. Bones that I love. It is a constant evolution here at the cottage but I love it and I hope you'll love to hear about all the projects I am constantly working on. Barely finishing one before starting the next. I'll post pictures soon.

I have an addiction to all things chippy and white, warm french/scandanavian country tones, antiques, vintage advertisements, Jamie Oliver, Anthropologie, and shoes. Oh how I love my shoes.

My hope is to be able to share my love of decorating, creating, cooking, and just life.

AND, to be able to touch people the way that I have been touched by all of you.