the handwritten note...

Recently, I received a postcard in the mail from a friend who lives in Germany. She wrote to let me know what she has been up to, and that she hopes that we will soon be able to see each other again. It was so meaningful to me that she took the time to send me a handwritten note. 

Today, it is so convenient to be able to send an email or text to communicate with family and friends. It is so rare these days to receive snail mail. If you do receive a personal letter in the mail, there is something so fulfilling and special about it. The act of sending a letter is meaningful in itself. 

In a world where so many things are instantaneous, why not take some time this weekend to pause long enough to say the things that matter, to the people that matter... And if you need to stock up on some stationary to get you going, I've got you covered! Happy weekend!!!

washing up wednesday...

It's washing up Wednesday! Who am I kidding. It seems like everyday is laundry day. So why not make your laundry room a space that you wouldn't mind spending time in... By adding a little style and organization, you can make any laundry room more attractive and functional. Sending you some laundry day inspiration! 

via Studio McGee

via Elle Decor

via House Beautiful

via Decor Pad

via Houzz

Get It Done...

 

step it up...

You have probably dedicated a good amount of time to selecting paint colors, furniture, window treatments, and countertops for your home. But have you given your staircase the attention it deserves? Your stairs are not only what you use to get from one floor to another, but in many cases, one of the first things that people see when they enter your home. Maybe it’s time to take a look at those hard-working stairs of yours to determine if they could use a little update. To help get your wheels turning, here are a few staircases that use paint and runners to really make a statement…

via Garden and Gun

via Annie Selke

via Decor Pad

via Elle Decor

via Leo Designs Chicago

via House and Home

 

monday {menu}

 

{recipe from... here}

g r a p e f r u i t  b a s i l  g r e y h o u n d

ingredient:

+ vodka

+ grapefruit juice

+ basil

+ honey

+ lime juice

+ sparkling water

how to make:

+ rim the glass with grapefruit or lime & press facedown into sugar or salt. fill with ice.

+ fill a large shaker with ice, vodka, basil, grapefruit juice & honey. shake shake shake.

+ top the drink off with a splash of sparkling water.

happy sunday...

sailing into the weekend...

via Habitually Chic

via Houzz

via Go Nautical

Catch the wind in your sails and 

make the most of your weekend!

 

inviting home workspaces...

via Country Life

via I'm In the Leaves

via House and Garden

via The Selby

Lately, I have had workspaces on my mind. And although I am lucky to have a dedicated office space, there are so many ways to create a beautiful and functional workspace within your home. Make your workspace an extension of your home's style, so that it becomes a comfortable and inspiring place for you to spend time and create. Here are a few tips:

• Find a space within your home that will allow for minimal distractions and has a view. 

• Look for a desk that is both beautiful and functional, allowing you the needed space to get your work done while adding to your home's aesthetic. Consider vintage and antique pieces that add warmth. Remember, you are not trying to recreate an office cubicle within your home. 

• Find a comfortable chair that you are happy to spend hours sitting in. If you decide not to go with a traditional office chair, maybe add a cushion to add to the comfort factor. 

• Surround yourself with decorative and personal effects that make you happy and inspire you (family photos, art, souvenirs, pencil holder, paperweight, etc.).

• Hide all wires! 

• Choose the appropriate lighting to aid you in your work and  avoid eye strain. 

 

sitting pretty...

I often get asked what style of sofa is my favorite. Although the sofa one chooses will depend on their personal style and space, I have to admit that I tend to favor the English roll arm. If you want a classic design that will stand the test of time and complement both traditional and modern spaces, the English roll arm should definitely be on your list of considerations. With no back cushions, and deep seat cushions, it is the perfect sofa for lounging and taking a nice long nap. Here are a few that may work for you...

happy sunday...

 

a few quiet moments...

It may be summer, but it definitely hasn't been a slow one. Between work, spending time with the family, and everything else that pops up,  I feel like I have been constantly trying to play catch up. And as you may already know, I have been planning and preparing for my upcoming office renovations. So today, I thought that I would slow down a bit, relax on the sofa with a cup of coffee, and thumb through a few books to get inspired. I hope that you are able to find a few quiet moments to find your own inspiration today...

going dutch...

via Hooked on Houses

via Domino

via House Beautiful

I love dutch doors! I have one. And you should too! Having a Dutch Door at your entry really makes a statement, adding a bit of personality and historic charm. By opening the top, you are letting fresh air and light in,  while keeping what you want in (pets, children, etc.) and keeping unwanted things out (leaves, critters, debris, etc.). And if you want to install an interior Dutch Door, it would serve as the most stylish baby gate ever! Think about it...