A refocused Life

Joplin, Missouri

2011-05-30T23:40:00.000-05:00

After the wedding, reception, and a much-needed break,
I thought I'd get back to blogging by the end of May. However, due to the tragic tornado that hit and leveled a third of my hometown on Sunday, May 22, I must
continue my absence.

We are blessed that our home and immediately family members are fine. Unfortunately, our business was directly in the path of the storm. It was only one of the eight-thousand structures destroyed. Sadly, there were 15 deaths in the apartment complex located next to our building. In all, 142 people died due to the tornado. I have friends who lost family members, my new son-in-law lost his grandmother, and I lost a dear friend from my church.

It has been amazing to see volunteers flooding into our city from all over the country. Food, water, clothing, as well as clean-up crews, nurses, doctors, counselors. Representatives from state and national government agencies have been here to help meet immediate financial and housing needs. President Obama spoke at the memorial service yesterday at our local university. We have been blessed with a outpouring of love and help.

Please pray for comfort, peace, and strength for the people of Joplin, Missouri.

May

2011-05-01T22:14:00.000-05:00

I'm back from Italy, the wedding in Florence, the reception here - all wonderful. I will share a few pictures in a future post, but for now, I'll start by welcoming May.

After the April showers, everything has been washed clean. May is such a beautiful month for flowers - rebirth, new growth, and blooms. May brings spring flowers, and the childhood memory of making May Day baskets. Happy May!

Plate Spinning

2011-03-16T09:37:00.000-05:00

Things are a little wild and crazy now that my daughter's wedding is just a couple of weeks away. Parties, showers, travel plans, and finalizing the wedding details. I'm enjoying every minute, but I just need to step away from blogging and focus on having fun with friends and family.

I wish I could look this calm and collected when I have plates spinning. This makes me smile.

Mimi Bleu

2011-03-10T20:57:00.001-06:00

It's so exciting to have a guest blogger, but even more special that it's Mimi Bleu from Bonjour Romance. Mimi was one of the connections I made early in my blogging adventure, and she has continued to be a wonderful friend and source of inspiration. She has not only created a beautiful blog where she shares all the things she loves - French decor, love, romance, anything vintage, old-fashioned and glamorous, but now Mimi is the creative talent behind Belle Inspiration e-Magazine.

I invited Mimi to share her story and her 'new' inspiration.

This is the image that started my love affair with Belle Inspiration.

How was your Magazine started? A lot of research, hard work and sleepless nights went into the premier issue in September 2010. After months of agonising over it, I took the plunge and announced the idea on my blog, Bonjour Romance. I was completely unprepared for the positive response and encouragement to "go for it." That is just what I did, and I am so glad I did!

What motivated you to start your Magazine? It was the culmination of a longtime dream. A desire to bring a different kind of magazine to women. How many times have you read a magazine and felt short changed because you just read the same old thing you had read dozens of times before. I wanted to change that, and give readers something they could really look forward to, knowing that each issue would be unique.

What is the mission behind your Magazine? A place to create, share, and embrace l'art de la vivre. Belle Inspiration has an emphasis on a romantic style of living that is both practical and classic, combining beautiful words and images. Or, to put it more simply - We like to say Belle Inspiration is your rendez vous with good taste and style.

Where did you come up with your magazine's name, what does it mean? 'Belle' means beautiful in French - Beautiful Inspiration - I felt that name embodied all we were trying to create.

What are your plans for your magazine in the future? Currently we are an online publication, but I am very excited to announce that we are now working to bring Belle into the print world. Many of our readers prefer the digital version for the reasons above, but we still receive many requests for a print magazine. Our goal is to unveil Belle in print this Summer. We also plan to offer an app for ipads and iphones.

How have you been able to balance your blog and your online magazine? It has actually worked together seemlessly. Bonjour Romance is where I share a more personal side of being an American in Paris, chronicling things I love as well as my adventures in Paris. Belle Inspiration is a collaboration of an incredible team of international contributors all sharing the beauty around them.

What makes your online magazine unique? I believe it is the wide variety of articles - we usually work around a theme with each issue, but we do not limit all our features to that. Belle Inspiration gives contributors free reign to write and photograph what they truly love. I think that comes across in each article and phot. Thankfully, the response has been overwhelming from both subscribers and advertisors.

Describe your reader, who is your target audience? Our motto is "Celebrating La Joie de Vivre", and that appeals to virtually every woman, regardless of age. Our readers are women who are looking for beauty and inspiration - an online escape. I always end the Editor's Letter in the magazine with the phrase "Because a woman loves so many things..."

What are the advantages/disadvantages of e mags over traditional print magazines? Online magazines have the wonderful advantage of offering clickable links to take readers directly to the blogs and boutiques, the ability to view embedded videos, and my favorite is the way the images are spread across the screen without the center line. Digital mags also have the added benefit of being 'clutter-free'. Today many of us are trying to edit and organise our 'stuff', so a digital mag is perfect. There are still quite alot of readers wha are waiting to have a beautiful print copy, that is why we want to give all readers a choice that will best suit their needs.

For those that might be unfamiliar, can you explain your tag line:     CELEBRATING LA JOIE DE VIVRE?   It is French for Celebrating the joy of living! Belle Inspiration is based in Paris France, and I have been inspired by the unique way the French do just that!

Online March 15th!      If you don't have your subscription yet, click here!

                                                 Enjoy a little sample of Mimi's inspiration here -

As Mimi always says - Put a Little Ooh La La in Your Life!

Thank you Mimi. It was special having you as my guest.

Start Now!

2011-03-09T20:19:00.000-06:00

I wish I had the same "I can't wait" decorating spirit for other holidays as I do Christmas. The ideas and intentions are there, but somehow it seems these other holidays just slip-up on me. Before I know it, the time for the fun new projects is gone, and I'm hurriedly hunting through cabinets, digging through boxes and drawers, in an attempt to place a few random decorations around the house to make it 'look' holiday-ish.

Easter is just around the corner, and this year I'm really going to try to do something fun - some pretty little planting, block-print some napkins, make some truffle eggs..... these ideas make me smile.

MarthaStewart CountryLiving WilliamSonoma

Special Home Tour

2011-03-06T02:08:00.000-06:00

What fun it has been to flip though a magazine (Celebrate Arkansas) and see my daughter's home as one of the feature articles. I thought I'd share. It makes me smile. Enjoy the tour.

A few of the additional photos.

They are professional photographers, so their home office reflects their creative side.

I got to put my creative skills (and some of my college education) to work in my grand daughter's bedroom. It was so fun to create a bedroom and bathroom for her.

Hello March!

2011-02-28T23:39:00.000-06:00

If it's March, spring must be just around the corner - green grass, buds and blooms, bunnies, daffodils, and for some, birthdays. Happy March! For those celebrating a birthday and the possibility of a gift of aquamarine - Happy Birthday!

Happy March!

SouthernLiving PotteryBarn Junkgardent CupCake's GoogleSearch CountryLiving

Beauty Cult Favorites

2011-02-21T22:01:00.001-06:00

Classics or old standards - I love these products. They have held the test of time, and most are still under $10.

I still love a 'true' red nail polish. I've done lasting-power / chip- resistance tests with a variety of nail enamel in all price ranges, and I still put Revlon Nail Enamel in my top three. Revlon Red is the perfect red. $5

Rosebud Salve - lips, nail cuticles, rough elbows, bushy eyebrows, diaper rash - it's truly a multi-purpose balm. $6

Solar Oil - Introduced in 1981, this cuticle oil is still a bedside companion and nightly ritual for my nails.

My Mason Pearson hairbrush. Actually, it's one my daughter left in my bathroom on one of her trips home from college. That was ten years ago, so I now claim it as officially mine. It may be hard to image paying $100 for a hairbrush, but it will last forever and nothing polishes and shines hair like quality boar bristles.

Blush, lipstick, mascara - the three essential beauty products every woman should own. This mascara consistently wins top-honors year-after-year. It sounds unbelievable, but supposedly a tube is sold every two-seconds. With or without using my lash primer - I love this product. $5

These last two take me back to high school, when my beauty products were purchased at the drugstore.

Coty Airspun Face Powder - it's been making movie stars’ complexions flawless since 1935. I think I only owned one box of the powder before Cover Girl caught my fancy. $8

Yardley of London English Lavender Soap - I haven't purchased a bar in years, but it has such a wonderful scent. Maybe I need to make a purchase. $3

These all make me smile.

The Chair

2011-02-15T22:28:00.000-06:00

I've have been a long-time fan of Restoration Hardware - the clean lines and classic style.

Although it's not really me, I've continued to appreciate their new 'industrial' look.

Now to my point. It's this chair (below). Does this chair conjure up any thoughts for you? Is it just me or does this chair seem a little creepy? I mean, attach a few leather straps for restraint and a source of electric current, and .... well you see where I'm going.

Even when the chair is placed in it's proper perspective, it's still a bit bizzare. I realize it's a reproduction French dentist's chair - maybe that's why it produces a nervous apprehension in me. I guess the thought of the dentist is much better than my first thought.

Should you have the perfect place for this chair in your home, Restoration Hardware has it on special for $1495.

All images Restoration Hardware

Valentine's Day Cookies

2011-02-03T13:27:00.001-06:00

I've attended several different showers and special events where cookies from Ali Bee's Bake Shop were used as dessert or favors. Ali's work is amazing!

My daughter just ordered some martini-shaped cookies for a party she is co-hosting, and I'm thinking I might need to order a few Valentine's Day cookies. I love to display them in a dainty cake stand and enjoy just looking at them for a week or so before we eat them.

Ali just posted a few of her favorites on her Facebook page - I'm trying to decide which ones to order. Any suggestions?

Ali Bee's Bake Shop

Happy New Year!

2011-02-02T22:12:00.000-06:00

I did a quick double-take yesterday when I passed a store display of New Year's hats, horns, and other party items. Then I remembered that not everyone has the same celebrations - it the Chinese New Year.

February 3rd begins the year of the rabbit and marks the beginning of the most important of the traditional Chinese holidays. Although the holiday actually occurs in winter, in China it's called the Spring Festival. Chinese families are gathering for their annual reunion dinner - "Eve of the Passing Year" - the year of the tiger.

I admit the store display prompted me to do a little research - thought I'd share.

Hello February!

2011-01-31T16:52:00.000-06:00

When I think of February, I tend to envision red, or at least pink, gems and jewels. The birthstone for February is amethyst - although not red, it is still a beautiful stone.
Happy February! And, Happy Birthday! - if this is your special month.

Celebrate your birthday in style!

...and Happy Valentine's Day to all.

Dessert

2011-01-25T13:13:00.000-06:00

My husband participates in an annual Chili Cook Off - no prize money, it's just for fun and a paper crown. I take a dessert, and of course, cast my vote for his famously delicious chili - I will share that recipe someday, too. But today, I thought I'd share the new dessert recipe I've decided to take. I haven't tried it yet, but I can't image how anything called Chocolate Brownie S'mores being anything but fabulous - at least the children will like it.

Ingredients

Crust:

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 1/2 cups crushed graham cracker crumbs
2 tablespoons sugar
Pinch fine salt

Brownie:

8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter
4 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped
1 cup packed light brown sugar
3/4 cup white sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon fine salt
4 large cold eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour

Topping:

4 cups large marshmallows

Directions

Pre-heat oven to 325 degrees. Line an 8 by-8-inch square baking pan with foil so it hangs over the edges by about 1 inch.

For the crust: Lightly butter the foil with some of the melted butter. Stir the rest of the butter together with the crumbs, sugar, and salt in a medium bowl. Press the crumb mixture evenly over the bottom of the pan. Bake until golden brown, about 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, make the brownie batter. Add the butter and chocolate together in a microwave safe bowl. Use medium power setting to microwave for 2 minutes. Stir, and microwave again until completely melted, about 1-2 minutes more. Alternate method: put the butter and chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Bring a saucepan filled with 1 inch or so of water to a very slow simmer; set the bowl on the pan without touching the water. Stir occasionally until melted.

Once butter and chocolate are melted, stir the light brown and white sugars, vanilla and salt into the melted chocolate. Add the eggs and beat vigorously to make a thick and glossy batter. Add the flour and stir until just incorporated.

Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake until the top is crispy and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out mostly clean, with a few crumbs, about 40 to 45 minutes.

Remove from the oven and arrange marshmallows on top. Toast under broiler until golden - watch closely, this only takes 1-2 minutes. Cool on a rack, and then gently remove the brownies from the pan and foil lining. Cut into squares. Enjoy!

Powder Your Nose

2011-01-16T23:35:00.000-06:00

I've been thinking about updating my guest bathroom. Actually, with no tub or shower, I guess it would be more accurate to call it a powder room. After Millie at The Laurel Hedge revealed her amazing bathroom makeover, I was inspired to get serious about my own project. Millie's reveal gave me some really good ideas - check it out.

At this point, I'm still searching for inspiration images. Here's just a few I've found, but I'm still looking for 'the' one.

HouseBeautiful SouthernLiving CoastalLiving

A Different Beat

2011-01-10T21:06:00.000-06:00

Drum lights /shades add a new interest in lighting options. Although I'm still uncertain of where I could use one in my home, I do find that in the right room or space, I like the look - a drum-shade light fixture adds a fun, new twist.

My hope is that someone will, or has already created a universal drum-shade that will fit my existing chandelier - wouldn't it be wonderful to have the ability to 'try' the idea without making a major investment?!

HouseBeautiful Horchow MetropolitanHome SouthernAccents

Happy January

2011-01-01T21:43:00.001-06:00

Here's wishing Happy Birthday to those born in the lovely month of January, and Happy New Year to all. May those with a birthday this month get everything they wish for - something with a garnet stone would be nice. Happy January!

Hava a wonderful New Year!

RalphLauren CountryLiving GoogleSearch

Goodbye 2010

2010-12-31T06:49:00.001-06:00

It has been a year of endings, beginnings, blessings, and lots of things that made me smile. Thanks for your part in making this a wonderful year. Happy New Year!

I'm Dreaming Again

2010-12-28T16:24:00.000-06:00

I love to celebrate the Christmas season as long as possible; however, cleaning up from Christmas Eve dinner is something that has to be faced today - I've already ignored and neglected the task too long as it is.

Like decorating the tree and the house for the season, I love preparing for our special Christmas Eve dinner - the meal as well as the table - linens, china, silver, place cards.

Unfortunately, I never find the same enthusiasm when it comes time to put the scene in reverse. Somehow the excitement I felt just a few days ago, as I unboxed china, searched in doors and doors for table linens, place card holders, and special serving piece, has been replaced with a feeling of drudgery. In my rationale for putting the task off until today, I have concluded that the reason for this delay and less-than-festive attitude could easily be resolved. If everything had a place - a designated place for every item - then I'm sure I would return the china, glasses, candlesticks, and everything else with a cheery smile on my face.

My solution to turn this gloomy face into a smile would start with storage.

But my fantasy storage is not 'in' my kitchen - I want a ROOM - not just

a pantry or a closet.

I'd design a clever little entrance - maybe like this...

or this...

or maybe even more grand, like this, where I can actually 'see' what is stored.

Certainly, glass doors would not be optional.

Oh, another grand idea - a ladder to help me reach those top shelves.

I'd make sure to plan some extra tall spaces for those items

that never seem to fit anywhere.

My trays would have their very own display niche, too. No more stacking!

My room would have a little sink for watering my plants and a sunny window

to make them smile. And, of course some extra counter space

for my "I don't know where to put this" / "I'll just set it here for now" items.

My table linens would not be forgotten.

No more standing over the ironing board pressing table linens. I'd have a special place just for a rotary streamer - maybe not in your fantasy,

but I really do enjoy ironing.

I would smile and wear strands of golden ornaments while I sat in my

fancy chair admiring my special room.

ElleDecor CountryLiving knbInteriors HourseBeautiful gilbaneInteriors

Christmas In Every Room

2010-12-15T12:02:00.000-06:00

It's so easy to let Christmas - the real meaning of Christmas - get lost in the shopping and gift-giving frenzy. I try to have a reminder in every room of my house - kitchen window to my guest bathroom - to keep my thoughts focused on the true meaning of Christmas. Most of my 'little reminders' are old and ones I collected through the years, but all have special meaning and memories. I'll share a few - I hope they make you smile.

Resilience

2010-12-09T07:51:00.002-06:00

Whether you knew her, knew of her, agreed with her politics, or have no knowledge of her, Elizabeth Edwards is/was a lady to be admired. I was not a fan, but a neutral on-looker of her life made public by her husband John Edwards, a former U.S. Senator. During the last ten years of her life she dealt - very publicly - with political campaigns, her husband's infidelity, news that her husband fathered a child during an extramarital affair, all while suffering from terminal breast cancer.

Elizabeth Edwards was first and foremost a mother, an attorney, a design decorator, and author of two books - “Saving Graces: Finding Solace and Strength from Friends and Strangers,” a book about life after the death of her 16 year-old son Wade and her illness; and “Resilience: Reflections on the Burdens and Gifts of Facing Life’s Adversities.”

I actually knew little about Elizabeth Edwards until I picked up a copy of her second book, "Resilience," in an airport bookstore two years ago. I thought it would be a good 'beach read' and I was not disappointed. In fact, my husband read it, too. Since then, I have purchased copies to give to friends. It's on my favorite books list, and it's on my 'required reading list' for my children, and someday for my grandchildren.

You won't regret the time spent reading this book. "Resilience"

Elizabeth Edward's furniture store - Red Window - in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

All I Want For Christmas

2010-12-08T11:43:00.000-06:00

I have such wonderful memories of driving my brother's old Woodie when I was in high school. And, oh what I'd give to have it back. Unfortunately, he sold it - for nothing - to buy a Ford Mustang. Both would be considered classics today. Maybe Santa will leave one of these in front of my house for Christmas -

Another Option

2010-12-03T02:26:00.001-06:00

This made me smile. An option I hadn't thought of, but a great way to save some money on your tree this year. The finishd project looks better than I imagined.

If you are really interested, the website is a DIY.

Hello December

2010-12-03T01:34:00.001-06:00

December - the one month when I'm tolerant and somewhat accepting of cold weather. White Christmases are special - it would be fine with me if it snowed just a little every day of December.

Happy December and Happy Birthday to those born is one of my favorite months. Blue Topaz is the birthstone for December, but Turquoise is considered an alternate. Enjoy!

Deck The Halls

2010-11-29T01:14:00.003-06:00

It's time to get my house ready for Christmas entertaining. I love the idea of using large vases and urns of greenery.

Images NellHills

Thanksgiving Fun

2010-11-25T21:56:00.002-06:00

It was a wonderful day with family at the farm, and way too much delicious turkey, stuffing, potatoes, gravy, ....... pie. On the drive home, I made my proverbial vow to never eat again, but somehow I was talked into roasting marshmallows. With temperatures hovering around 30, it seemed the perfect weather for the firepit and a little fun outdoors. Another day with many perfect moments to celebrate.

About my firepit.

Dressed For Dinner

2010-11-18T20:36:00.000-06:00

Just something that made me smile.

Thanksgiving Decorating

2010-11-15T00:55:00.000-06:00

I'm ready to break out the red and green,but I'm demonstrating a little self control by giving fall and Thanksgiving a few days in the spot light.

Enjoying Warm Fall Days

2010-11-09T21:38:00.000-06:00

Mid November weather isn't typically this warm, so I'm taking advantage of every second.

SouthernLiving TradionalHome

Tablescape Crazy

2010-11-07T22:29:00.000-06:00

Thirty-eight uniquely decorated tables,

two-hundred eighty ladies,

a wonderful dinner,
three inspirational speakers,

and a fabulous fashion show -

all part of the annual Festival of Tables.

Hello November!

2010-11-01T18:50:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday to those with a November birthday. You are lucky enough to have two birthstone options - if you aren't crazy about the look of citrine, maybe you'l like yellow topaz. Both are beautiful gemstones.

Have a wonderful month!

Happy Birthday!

Happy Halloween

2010-10-29T14:47:00.000-05:00

It's all fun! These make me smile.

Horchow PotteryBarn BetterHomes&Gardens Mine

Who knew?

2010-10-24T20:49:00.000-05:00

When I wrote my last post, I had no thought - NONE - that I would be the owner of a new puppy today. It certainly was not in my plans.

Our four-year old grand daughter came for a weekend visit. One of her usual 'must do' agenda items includes a trip to the pet store to see the fish, rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, mice, snakes, hermit crabs, and of course, puppies. After dinner at her favorite Mexican restaurant and a quick trip to Target, we headed home, but she quickly reminded us about our promised visit to the pet store.

Needless to say, we feel in love - not with a hermit crab. Ironically, our grand daughter wanted a gold fish. My husband and I both knew we had found the only dog that could possibly fill the void left in our hearts by the loss of our seventeen-year old golden retriever, Elliott. After more than a year without a dog, we had decided life was easier without a pet to worry with.

We left the store without a puppy or gold fish. However, within a few hours - only forty-five minutes before the store closed, my husband had returned to purchase our puppy.

He makes us smile.

Remy - our eight-week old 'cream' golden retriever. He's going to be a BIG boy when he's grown.

Pet Rules

2010-10-21T23:33:00.000-05:00

Do you have pet rules or do your pets rule?

Growing up, there was no question about pets in the house or on furniture - it was absolutely not allowed. And my parents continue to run a pretty tight ship with their dog. Their old lab has the privilege to live in the house, but she knows to walk a careful path throughout the house, making sure a paw never touches a rug - she makes even a wider swath when she walks close to any piece of furniture. She (Annie) has an assigned rug for day naps, and a fluffy bed in the bedroom for night sleeping. She has a basket for her toys, and on command, gathers her stuffed toys and balls, and places them in the basket. Annie is well trained and disciplined dog.

On the other hand, pets seem to run-a-muck at my house, and in my yard. I can't remember if we started out with training rules or if we simply just created our unruly brood by failing to instill rules during a training period. I guess it really doesn't matter at this point - both dogs died last year (golden retriever 17 and brittney spaniel 16), and the cat is too old, too fat, and to lazy to attempt to teach.

These pictures make me smile.

SouthernLiving CountryLiving ApartmentTherapy Mine

BWO

2010-10-17T16:32:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Tiffini at Tartx

Blogging Without Obligation by Tiffini

After coming across what seemed to be the 4000th or so post on someone’s blog starting with “I’m sorry I haven’t posted in awhile.” I decided it is time to rethink what makes a good blog and the expectations that have come to be part of it. I am thinking that no one should utter those words again . . .and with that thought I give you Blogging Without Obligation. If you feel the same way feel free to grab the logo, make a logo or whatever you would like to do! Because you shouldn’t have to look at your blog like it is a treadmill.

Because its okay to just say what you have to say. If that makes for a long post, fine. Short post, fine. Frequent post, fine. Infrequent post, fine.

Because its okay to not always be enthralled with the sound of your own typing.

Because sometimes less is more.

Because only blogging when you feel truly inspired keeps up the integrity of your blog.

Because they are probably not going to inscribe your stat, link and comment numbers on your tombstone.

Because for most of us blogging is just a hobby. A way to express yourself and connect with others. You should not have to apologize for lapses in posts. Just take a step back and enjoy life, not everything you do has to be “bloggable”.

Because if you blog without obligation you will naturally keep your blog around longer, because it won’t be a chore. Plus, just think you will be doing your part to eradicate post pollution. One post at a time. . .

I release all the logos, thoughts and words mentioned here about this concept into the public domain. Take the idea and run with it...or walk away... It is all good.

A Perfect Day

2010-10-08T23:35:00.000-05:00

Breakfast with my three grand daughters.
Group hugs and kisses as we sent the oldest off to kindergarten - we really wanted her to stay home with us.
Cartoons, 'Match' game, and puzzles.
Picnic lunch in the tent.
Nap time for one, and coloring and story time with the four-year old.
One last splash in the pool - the cover goes on next week.
Warm showers and lounging in terry robes while drinking hot cocoa.

I've taken them home, and I'm trying to get the house back in order - stray hair bows, laundry, dishes. All part of a perfect day.

Friendship

2010-10-06T17:05:00.002-05:00

Found this in my inbox and it just seemed like something worth passing on.

Fable of the porcupine

It was the coldest winter ever - many animals died because of the cold. The porcupines, realizing the situation, decided to group together. This way they covered and protected themselves; but the quills of each one wounded their closest companions even though they gave off heat to each other. After a while they decided to distance themselves one from the other and they began to die, alone and frozen. So they had to make a choice: either accept the quills of their companions or disappear from the Earth. Wisely, they decided to go back to being together. This way they learned to live with the little wounds that were caused by the close relationship with their companion, but the most important part of it, was the heat that came from the others. This way they were able to survive.

Moral of the story:
The best relationship is not the one that brings together perfect people, but the best is when each individual learns to live with the imperfections of others and can admire the other person's good qualities.

Too cute not to share.

Belated Happy October

2010-10-04T13:18:00.000-05:00

I'm a little late, but just as happy to say "Hello October!" According to my personal calendar, it is now officially fall - time to start planning holiday gathers, purchase the season's first apple cider, get my fire pit ready for roasting marshmallows, replace the ferns on my porch urns with mums, and to begin the Christmas shopping countdown. But first, I must say happy birthday to those welcomed to the world in October and lucky enough to have opals for a birthstone.

Happy October!

Martha Stewart Minx GoggleSearch

Perfect Fall Decorating

2010-09-25T20:38:00.000-05:00

A nice touch of fall - no screaming orange. All signs of summer have been replaced with a warm throw, a pillow or two, and a fire to take the chill out of the air while you read a good book.

Country Living

Yes! It's Bigger Than Ever

2010-09-14T00:04:00.001-05:00

Leopard print is not only still 'in' for the 2010 fall/winter season, but according to experts, it's every where this year - far beyond the usual places - shoes, bags, and accessories. Keep in mind, the fashion runways and Hollywood tend to go to the extreme on everything. I think I'll stick to the rule of 'less is more' as my guideline in this case. As a leopard lover, I'm jumping for joy. Enjoy this little fashion show.

Mulberry DolceGabbana Moschino

One Good Thing About Fall

2010-09-12T23:34:00.000-05:00

As I've said before, I am not a fan of fall or any folliage that is yellow, orange, or brown. But, rather than whine about the things I don't like, I thought I'd try to focus on one of the positive opportunities provided by the season - outdoor entertaining. The evening temperatures are cooler, summer vacations are over, family life has returned to a more normal pace, and weekends are perfect for gatherings with friends.

I love these settings.

RestorationHardware HomeandGardening SouthernLiving

Pillow Talk

2010-09-05T22:06:00.000-05:00

I love using pillows - on a bed, sofa, or chair. Sometimes I pile them on, and then in some settings it only takes one to make the perfect statement

GoogleSearch

Hello September

2010-09-01T14:51:00.000-05:00

Everyone should own at least one piece of sapphire jewelry - adding diamonds only makes this stone even more beautiful. Happy birthday to those celebrating birthdays this month.

GoogleSearch

Goats

2010-08-26T20:22:00.000-05:00

I have a thing for goats - well, I want 'a' goat. I know it's not possible, so it's fun just to say I want one. But, if I lived on a farm, I would have a little white goat.

Goats are funny creatures - they will eat anything and they love to climb. I've heard stories from others who thought they wanted a goat until they got one. In most of those cases, they didn't keep their goat for reasons fore-mentioned. So far, these stories haven't dampened my desire for one. These little guys just make me smile.

Images GoogleSearch

Pencil Sharpener

2010-08-20T12:49:00.001-05:00

This was one of those random viral emails that was too good not to pass on. I think you'll agree.

The amazingly talented Dalton Ghetti, a carpenter by trade, devotes his free time to an extremely unique hobby - pencil art - taking used pencils, a razor blade, and a sewing needle to create tiny works of art.

GoogleSearch

For My Backyard

2010-08-13T23:52:00.000-05:00

If I had one of these...

...I'd add a cute little bucket, a lovely towel, a bar of soap, and it would be fun to wash up

after working in the garden.

Country Living

I Want One

2010-08-10T07:09:00.001-05:00

Is this not just the cuttest little "a room of my own" cottage? It makes me smile.

SandraFoster NewYorkTime Via Shell and Seaglass

Extreme Makeover

2010-08-04T14:44:00.000-05:00

How many times have I passed an old dilapidated house and thought of the possibilities? Many! Not only do I think about what it could become, but I always wonder about the house when it was a 'home' - full of life and memories for a family.

A young couple (new baby young), in Jefferson, New York were brave enough to take on the extreme makeover of this 106 year-old farmhouse. Once a chicken farm, it had been well-worn. The last renovation had reconfigured the 6000 square foot structure into six apartments, but it had been setting empty and neglected for 25 years when the couple decided to make it their home. Their bravery and vision are amazing.

Country Living

Hello August

2010-07-31T22:00:00.000-05:00

Peridot - who knew? I had no idea what gemstone represented August and not a clue as to what peridot looked like. Now that I've searched for 'everything peridot' for the past few days, I think I'm beginning to like this color - I love the necklaces I found (below).

Happy August! Happy Birthday to those who wear peridot with pride. Enjoy - I hope these images of August make you smile.

Have a wonderful August.

Elle Tiffany PamelaSweeda Parzul LaStoriaDiLucia Waterford KilaDesigns ApartmentTherapy GoogleSearch Motorla

Still Taking A Break

2010-07-19T19:32:00.000-05:00

I'm having fun, but I can't wait to get back so I can see all the wonderful things I've missed.

Life is too short to miss opportunities to spend time with friends and family.

Traditional Home

Hello July

2010-06-30T23:13:00.000-05:00

July means summer is in full swing. Happy Birthday to those who wear rubies as their birthstone. It's HOT where I live, so red seems the perfect color to represent this month . Happy July! Enjoy.

Have a wonderful July!

Country Living Rolex GoogleSearch TheStyleFiles Traditional Home Life RedLetterWords

Taking Time Out

2010-06-24T22:44:00.000-05:00

I refocused my life based on making family and friends my priority. Somehow, every now and then, I find myself back in my old life - spinning plates, peddling faster than my wheels can turn, balancing a chair on my forehead while tap dancing. It's so easy to allow old habits to creep back in, forgetting to put the important things in life first, rather than last. So, I'm taking a timeout and putting a few things on hold in order to enjoy family and friends - keeping my promise to myself to live a life that allows me to take time to celebrate the simple joys and blessings in my life.

I'll be back in July. I hope to see then. Rita

Let's Take This Outside

2010-06-09T00:24:00.000-05:00

Summer provides the perfect setting for one of my favorite things - outdoor entertaining. I love casual get-togethers with friends and family. A little inspiration. Enjoy!

Southern Living Southern Accents Country Living Elle Decor

Treasures of Summer

2010-06-03T21:59:00.001-05:00

Of all the wonderful things summer brings, one of my favorites is beautiful flowers. These flowers were reminders of what it was like to have fresh flowers in my house throughout summer, and how fun it was to share bouquets with friends and neighbors. Maybe I'll reconsider the reasons I replaced my 'old fashioned' cut-flower bed with flowering shrubs, and create a new flower bed for next year. For now, I'm letting theses make me smile. Enjoy!

Country Living Better Homes and Garden GoogleSearch

Hello June!

2010-05-31T23:03:00.001-05:00

It's summer! Although the calendar doesn't say it's summer until June 21, to me it's close enough to officially begin my favorite season.

Happy birthday to all who are lucky enough to get to wear a beautiful strand of pearls for their birthstone. Here are just a few of the things that remind me of June and summer - they make me smile. Enjoy!

BenfieldPhotography Flicker Country Living GoogleSearch ArteBelloDesigns Mine

Urns Add Sophistication

2010-05-26T01:21:00.001-05:00

What to do with an urn?

How would you fill these urns?

Hadn't thought of doing this with urns.

Lazy, Hazy Days Of Summer

2010-05-23T13:30:00.002-05:00

I'm counting the days until I am here.

I'm hoping it's nice and quiet-

- not like this.

Eating here would be lovely-

-but so much here.

Maybe sleeping here -

- not so fond of this.

Doing a lot of this -

- none of this.

GoggleSearch

Couture Unsure

2010-05-20T23:25:00.001-05:00

Sometimes when I see a fashion runway review or flip through Vogue, I see the models and wonder how the couture designs transfer to the real-world - to a person who is going out in public, is not 5'19" tall, is bigger than a size -0, and knows the choice will be open for all media scrutiny.

Case in point, Michelle Williams selected a couture Chanel gown for her Cannes appearance. Aren't the bumblebee earring cute - for a child? They are from Aspery's chilren's collection.

The beaded neckline piqued my curiosity to want to see the dress in full-length. I quickly searched back through the Chanel Spring 2010 show to see the dress and check out the other choices. See what you think - try to ignore the cartoon-inspired, heart-shaped hair..

And her choice was -

- disappointing.

Chanel Style New York Post

Clean, Fresh, New

2010-05-17T06:43:00.000-05:00

When my house is up-side-down and I'm just not in the mood to tackle the clutter, I find therapy in creating file images of what I'd like to see appear if I closed my eyes for two seconds. Look what appeared this time.

I'm not sure which I find more calming, the neutral colors or the symmetry of the arrangement - I think it's the lack of clutter

Traditional Home

Enter To Win!

2010-05-15T11:53:00.002-05:00

Two of my favorite bloggers have joined creative efforts for a guest post. Sharon @ My French Country Home is hosting a feature post by Julie @ Being Ruby.

Even better news - Julie is celebrating her 'first' guest post with a fabulous giveaway. Please visit both of these wonderful and creatively talented ladies.

A Trip To The Farm

2010-05-13T15:29:00.004-05:00

I love the tissue-paper blooms and sweet aroma created by a vase of peonies. Now just image what it would be like to stand in a three-acre field of blooming peonies. I got to do just that last week when I visited Chotkowski's in Fayetteville, Arkansas. It was fascinating to see the different varieties, each with it's own unique color, bloom shape, and scent. After wondering around the plot, I selected and purchased a plant variety 'Buttercup' that I thought would be a nice addition to my existing plants.

It was a fun way to spend an afternoon. I'm sharing a few of my photos - it's just too bad that I can't share the sweet scents of the beautiful blooms with you. Enjoy and have a wonderful weekend.

Keep your eyes open for God, watch for his works; be alert for signs of his presence.

Psalm 105:4 The Message

Images - mine

Merci Beaucoup Simone

2010-05-11T12:04:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago, I was the lucky winner of a giveaway by Simone at The Bottom of the Ironing Baske t. I'm not sure when or how I connected with Simone, but I do remember the exact moment I fell in love with her blog. She creates the most amazing and unique posts - beautiful images, thought provoking quotes, and words that seem as though you are sharing in a quiet conversation with her as you scroll down the page. Needless to say, I was thrilled to find out that I was the honored winner of Simone' giveaway celebrating her girlfriend-getaway trip to Paris.

I received Simone's gift - a lovely book by Jane Webster, At My French Table. Reading the book has been such a fun way to experience french life through photos and stories of the people, places, and especially the wonderful recipes. I've given it a special place among my favorite things - the things I'd have at my french table - fresh flowers from my garden, I'd wear pearls, and of course, I would eat cake.