As an interior designer, I have read and collected many design books over the years. It takes a very special book to receive permanent space on my bookshelves. It is very rare for a design book to continually inspire me page after page. I recently encountered a book that achieved both. It includes Wonderful Wall Treatments. Wonderful Wall Treatments For many people SO much thought and consideration goes into the furniture they select and the accessories they choose. While they may agonize ... View the Post

On a beautiful day during spring break I took the kids on a picnic at the park right around the corner from our house. Barefoot In The Park. Barefoot In The Park We packed up the enamel cups and metal plates we generally use while camping as well as the ticking napkins tied up with twine and a bit of rosemary from the backyard. With the exception of two fishermen sitting next to the lake, we had the park to ourselves. Everyone said grace before enjoying the BLT sandwiches. ... View the Post

Right off of the kitchen there is a little nook that our family enjoys the majority of our meals. It is a bright sunny spot that looks out onto the pool. I found the table at a discount store a few years ago. I am thinking about painting the thrifted antique bentwood chairs to match the table legs. What do you think? In an effort to be more environmentally conscience we use washable placemats and napkins. They are changed out every Saturday. (Unless there is an episode of spilt milk.) I adore ... View the Post

It is truly the best time of year to live in Phoenix. Temperatures range in the 70’s ~ 80’s right now. I try to get outside as much as I can before the fierce heat arrives. We are lucky to have a pretty park that is just three walking minutes from our front door.  I made the trip wearing my new Charlotte Russe sandals. I packed a little lunch in a basket that is probably older than some of my readers. Does anyone remember the Longaberger basket parties held in the early 90’s? One of Grandma ... View the Post

The week started out with a 39 degree low but it now appears that spring has arrived in sunny Phoenix. On the front porch I cleared off all of the winter décor and hosed everything down. The red cushions that looked so cheery all through the holidays now appear tired and faded. The desert sun does a number on outdoor fabric even in the winter. I plan on giving the bistro set a paint update before summer arrives. Dark bronze probably, although I am tempted by the thought of turquoise. ... View the Post

After the winter pom-pom wreath took me like 300 hours to make I wanted something quick and easy for the front door this spring. As you know I also really love inexpensive creations. This wreath hit it out of the ballpark on both counts. Here is how I made A $7 Springtime Wreath Made In Under 30 Minutes. A $7 Springtime Wreath Made In Under 30 Minutes I began with a wire frame I purchased at Joann’s for 50% off. The burlap garland was found at Michael’s and I used a 40% coupon. The total ... View the Post