I am turning 40. Let us celebrate with A Party Fit For Marie Antoinette. A Party Fit For Marie Antoinette The table is dressed with a matelasse cloth covered in roses, candy, confetti and images of the queen. Crystal candlesticks are dripping with jewels. At each setting is a collection of antique silver and China topped with a vintage handkerchief to be used as a napkin. In the center of the napkin is a ring fit for such regal guests. A favor was placed to the left of each place ... View the Post
You Are Cordially Invited
Today I am 40. You Are Cordially Invited. You Are Cordially Invited I had written this post a few days ago before learning of my dad's passing. A big celebration had been in the works by my children that I truly considered canceling. My sister in law Melody, who lives here in town, said, "Laura, don't cancel. Norm LOVED a party and I REALLY need a drink." (Who can argue with that?) As my husband is currently overseas and will not return for awhile, it is actually comforting to me that ... View the Post
La Belle Chocolatière
In my last post, I showed you the eating area of my kitchen and mentioned that I would talk about the picture that is in the background. La Belle Chocolatière. La Belle Chocolatière Here is a closeup of the picture and the story to go with it. While living in Germany I regularly attended the indoor flea market held in our little village of Meisenbach. On a Saturday, a gentleman was outside and had the doors of his van flung open and propped up against the door was this picture. She ... View the Post
Come With Me To The Sea
Yesterday I hosted a luncheon. The theme was "Come With Me to the Sea". It has been 110+ here in Phoenix so I thought that we could be transported to a cooler climate if only for an afternoon. Come With Me To The Sea. Here is my living room decked out in summer white slipcovers. (They will change to a Tuscan red in the fall.) Come With Me To The Sea To the left of the room, there is normally a small antique chest that my husband bought while living in England. It is currently being ... View the Post
Mary Carol Garrity
Do you know this charmingly happy woman? It is Mary Carol Garrity, the founder of Nell Hill's, a legendary home decor shop in Atchison, Kansas. Mary Carol Garrity Mrs. Garrity is also the author of several wonderful books. Here are a few of my favorites: Inside the pages you'll find delicious images like these: She is a big believer on making the most with what you have. I adore her tablescapes. She weaves in layers of texture, color and often unexpected ... View the Post
Sew, How Are You?
I am feeling the pressure to get a few items crossed off of my "to do" list. Sew, How Are You? Soon I will be returning to school and my free time will then be minimal. I have wanted to make some curtains to hide an open shelf in my laundry room. There is some extra fabric left over from my bedroom project. (Which I will be showing you soon.) I think this solution works for now. I can pull the curtains all the way closed but left them open a smidge so that you could get an idea of the ... View the Post