Wednesday, November 30, 2011

LUNCH QUICK FIX


Lately I have become hooked on quinoa after a friend introduced me several months ago to the great health benefits and tasty flavor.  The terrific thing about it is that I can make a lot of it at once and it keeps in the fridge for a few days with no nasty repercussions. I actually prefer eating it cold for lunch, with a variety of ingredients, depending on what I have at the time.  Tossing in some smoked salmon, spinach, avocado, sun-dried tomatoes, slivered and roasted almonds, whatever. I also like to add a little splash of apple cider vinegar and a pinch of kosher salt and I am good to go.  Makes a healthy, filling and satisfying lunch without any "eater's remorse".  Do you like quinoa? How do you eat yours'? 

Monday, November 21, 2011

THANK YOU & HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!







I'd like to thank these fantastic blogs for their kind mentions lately!! I am so thankful for all of my readers, customers and fellow bloggers. I am also very thankful for the life God has given me and for my loved ones. 

** for all of you who may have been eyeing something in my shop lately, you can soon acquire it at a considerable discount. I am having a 25% off sale Friday only!
Wishing you all a very Happy Thanksgiving and a wonderful week!!!

Friday, November 18, 2011

CHICAGO SPACES



Photos reprinted with permission from Chicago Spaces: Inspiring Interiors, by Jan Parr and the editors of Chicago Home + Garden, Agate Surrey, October 2011

Having just spent some time in Chicago myself, I was especially interested to check out this great new book published by Agate that showcases some of the Windy City's most stylish homes. It was created by Jan Parr and the editors of Chicago Home & Garden and features gorgeous photos that invite you into some of the most outstanding interiors of this amazing metropolis so well known for its architecture. 


A few photos from my fabulous time in Chicago - Navy Pier and the Chicago Skyline


At the historic landmark Chicago Water Tower


Marilyn has got to be freezing.....   

Here's hoping you have a warm and wonderful weekend! 

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

TEA WITH THE QUEEN IN MIAMI BEACH


This is an entirely hand made collage that features cantaloupe silhouette of Queen Elizabeth 2's profile on an aqua background. It's like tea with the Queen in Miami Beach!! Very strong graphic quality. Sort of what I'd call neo-traditional pop art and perfect for gift-giving. Work is mounted on an 5x7 board, ready for framing or even perfect on its own! Limited edition piece signed and numbered by artist on the back.  
Layered with non-yellowing protective coating and available here

Monday, November 14, 2011

ROOMS BY KATIE RIDDER


The name Katie Ridder is synonymous in the design world for color and style.  She has a gift for blending the tried and true with the hip and unexpected. Vendome has recently released a wonderfully book illustrated with 240 full color photos highlighting some of her best work.  If you think the cover is attractive, just wait until you get the chance to peruse the pages........


This living room is just a sample of her style - love the variety of surfaces, texture and color


I thought this kitchen in Virginia was absolutely stunning.


and again, a prime example of her versatility in this pink, sans-the-fluff bedroom she created for her own daughter.  Just another winner in the Vendome library that would also make a lovely gift during the upcoming Holidays (hint, hint). More detailed information and availability can be found here.

Friday, November 11, 2011

SUPER SALE AT HARRISON HOWARD

Fellow artist and friend Harrison Howard is having a rare sale on his amazing work.  This is your chance to get a significant savings on his limited edition fine art prints. Harrison is internationally known for his colorful and detailed work and has completed private commissions for some of America's most prominent families and decorators. The 25% off sale runs today through November 18th so hurry and check out the goods here.
ENJOY YOUR WEEKEND!!

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

YOUR FAVORITE FRAGRANCE.....


I just wanted to share a commission I recently completed for a client who wanted a very special gift for a friend in NY whose favorite perfume is "Angel" and who is also a big collector of contemporary art.
What a thoughtful and generous gesture - a perfect idea for unique holiday gift-giving.
Whether it's your home, child, pet or a favorite perfume, I would be honored to capture the beauty of it for you. There's still a little time to get on my list so that your commission is ready for holiday giving, so don't hesitate to contact me for more information here . 

Monday, November 7, 2011

MINTED AND HIP HOLIDAY CARDS


Minted.com has some of the coolest holiday card choices (besides mine on etsy, of course!)
The design I chose was by French designer Cecile @ Paper Lounge. Love her style! 
I then uploaded my photo (I had a lot of fun being creative with photoshop to add my face to Jackie's bod to create a sort of retro-spoof card this year) The process is so easy and snag-free. You basically just pick a winner from one of their hundreds of hip designs and upload your own photo (or in my case, just my face to someone elses' photo!) You add the text desired and they send you a proof via email for approval before it goes to press.
Easy as pie, quick as a wink and cute as a bug. I was very impressed. 
Check out their site for both HOLIDAY and NEW YEARS cards. You won't be disappointed!

Friday, November 4, 2011

CRASH CANDLES AND ANGELA ADAMS


I was lucky to receive this adorable Angela Adams design fragrant soy candle from Crash Candles in the mail.
There are a myriad of great designs and scents available and they are all eco-friendly and make a great accessory to brighten up your space or give as a gift!  Check out all the great options from several hip designers here.
Have a wonderful first weekend of November!

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

TEA CANISTERS


I saw this great collection on Absolutely Beautiful Things a while back.


This is a pattern by Daher of Long Island that was made in England. My mom had several like these when I was a little scrapper in the 70's. These are from a vintage etsy shop here.

Here is another in the same pattern, but an unusual shape I have never seen before. This is available on etsy from this dealer.





I love the pattern on this tray, reminiscent of my childhood and available here.


and for those of you who are blue & white fans, here's another great piece.
Have you ever heard of Daher?  What kind of vintage items appeal to you? 
 
http://clickserve.cc-dt.com/link/click?lid=41000000028477615