A FEW OF MY FAVORITES......

The signature yellow-orange shade used for Aqua di Parma's packaging really bakes my cake!

I am a bit short of time this week, so I am throwing together a few favorite photos from my files, some without labels, unfortunately. If anyone else happens to know their origins and wants to enlighten me, I'd be very grateful! Thanks!!

Gracie wallpaper - if money were no object, I'd have this in my foyer!

Gorgeous ranunculus, peonies and roses

Light-drenched Euro loft - Marie Claire Maison (via Alkemie) LOVE the sofa! (Only someone French would have the guts to do this)

A cheery, girly European loft Marie Claire Maison (via Alkemie)

One of my favorite paintings by Matisse

A favorite vintage chair - origin unknown

Rug designed by Paul Smith for The Rug Company

THANKS, SUNNY!

I just want to thank artist Sunny Goode for the kind mention on her blog yesterday! Sunny is an artist and decorative painter who started Sunny's Goodtime Paints. Her beautiful work was featured this month in Domino. Check out her website and blog here.

SAFFRON MARIGOLD LUXURY LINENS

Moonlit Taj pillow cover

Saffron Marigold is a luxury, handmade linen company that prides itself in hand workmanship, fair trade practices and traditional style.

Pink Paisley Tablecloth

Each piece of linen is painstakingly hand printed from wooden blocks that are created by hand in a labor-intensive carving process.

Wedding Day Tab Top Curtain Panel

The beautiful Emerald Mandala letter holder features two pockets to hold your mail.

Anisha Ghosh is the talented artist and designer behind the company Saffron Marigold and designs all the linens offered on their website. Although not a designer by education (she has a Masters degree in Human Resources), she surrendered to her love for Indian textiles and decided to pursue it as her vocation. After traveling extensively through out India researching various traditional handcrafted textiles, and building relationships with several artisans, she launched Saffron Marigold in 2005. They carry a wide selection of linens that includes bedspreads, duvet covers, tablecloths, cushion covers and accessories. Their pieces add a touch of Bohemian sophistication to the home.

In Saffron Marigold, she wanted to mirror the philosophy behind the slow clothes movement wherein textiles are created with an eye to safeguarding traditional crafts and the human impact of production rather than mechanized mass production. Saffron Marigold was born out of a desire to provide the discerning customer a choice to own bedding and linens that have a story to tell. Pieces that have been created by human hands, and that somehow have imprinted upon their fibers generations of skill, culture, and tradition. Anisha said that all the handcrafted linens sold on Saffron Marigold have sound karma, meaning that, while Saffron Marigold is a for profit small business, they are fully committed to arts and crafts revival and Fair Trade as a means to safeguard traditional crafts, create employment, and promote economic self-sufficiency. Which, anyway you cut it, always makes me feel much better about buying, knowing that it's also benefiting the people who make it. Check out their website here.

CANINE PROFILES

Silhouette of Bernie, a Chicago dweller

BERNIE

Henry's handsome profile

HENRY -

If dogs are a man's best friend, then why aren't there more dog portraits hanging on our walls? Here are a couple of commissions finished recently for my client, Michelle, in Chicago. They are custom silhouettes of her adorable canine friends, Bernie and Henry. They were done on 12 x 12 x 2 inch aquabord in complimentary colors to hang as a pair. Besides silhouettes, I also paint dog portraits. If you are interested in immortalizing one of your furry friends, or giving a unique, un-boring kind of gift, please don't hesitate to contact me!

THANK YOU BECCA AND COURTNEY!

Thanks for the 2 great blog mentions this week! Courtney Barnes of StyleCourt

and Becca of My Soul Shines. Thank you both so much!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MISS LULA!!

I just want to wish a very happy birthday to my grandmother, Lula Harwell (or, as she is known to many,"Lulu") This Glamour Gal turns 89 years old today and I feel very blessed to have had her in my life for so long. She has raised four children, has 7 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren and has been married for almost 67 years!! No small feat any way you cut it!!

I can remember coming over to her house when I was little - she was always very patient and would allow me to rummage through her jewelry box and try on her exotic long necklaces and clip earrings. I would play the organ at headache-inducing volume levels, complete with the bossa nova beat in the background and pull out the "Monkeys in a Barrel" game and scatter it all over the floor.

"Miss Lulu", as my grandpa calls her, should have worked for the fruit growers association. I can never remember a time when I saw her that she did not offer me a pear, grapefruit, apple, orange, tangerine, cherries, berries, banana, figs or kiwi. Heck, she even carries fruit when she travels!! A former English teacher, she is a voracious reader and a spelling editor for my grandfather and his newspaper columns and books. She is known for her love of roses and gardening, which I, and several members of the family, have inherited. She could spend hours at a plant nursery and has taught me the names of many different tree and plant species. Rarely could you leave her home without a hand-gathered bouquet from her garden (at times inhabited by a spider or some tiny insects, much to my chagrin). She is a gracious and hospitable woman who has always made everyone feel welcome in her home with her love of cooking, entertaining and laughter. She has had some bouts with cancer and ill health over the years, but manages to keep up with her daily walking and gardening still. As we like to say, "She takes a lickin' but keeps on tickin'!" Happy Birthday, Grandma, and thank you for all you have invested in the lives of your family, friends and strangers - you are very loved!

PRETTY NIFTY

Look what I spotted on Etsy - I don't really sew much.....well, actually almost NEVER, but if I was into it, I'd love this moss pincushion. Very clever, don't you think? Check it out here!

SUNNY'S GOODTIME PAINTS

Artist, designer and entrepreneur Sunny Goode

Sunny's stylish monograms are made with a flat finish, so they have the look of something painted on the wall rather than a slick decal. They feature a water-based adhesive, for simple and easy removal. A very practical and economical alternative to a custom decorative paint job.

Sunny's beautiful work was featured this month in Domino in the sunny, pastel home of Richmond, VA art dealer Katie Ukrop. Look at the wonderful floor she stenciled!

(Click for larger image)

Sunny's charming shop in Richmond, VA

A couple of years ago I read about Sunny Goode, a talented artist and painter based in Richmond, Virginia - a pretty stylish town. I was immediately entranced by her beautiful colors, stylish stencils and motivating photos. Sunny started Sunny's Good Time Paints in 2001 and now has a shop, a website, and materials available in select shops nationwide. She has authored two how-to books chock-full of inventive design ideas; "Paint Can!" and "Paint Can Children's Rooms". My memory was jogged when I saw her work featured in the August issue of Domino, so I decided to visit her website again and see what was new.

Let's face it, for the most part, faux painting has already experienced it's heyday and much of it now is associated with bad memories of pseudo-Tuscan washes and poorly-executed sponge jobs. I should know - I have seen more than a few people cringe when I tell them that, besides being an artist, I also do decorative (and even a little faux) painting. People used to have the same reaction to the word "wallpaper" being used!! However, wallpaper is now quite in vogue again and I am convinced that Sunny Goode could single-handedly bring about a similar revival for faux finishing.
I promise her style does NOT even remotely resemble an Olive Garden interior. She manages to elevate the much-maligned wash or stencil to a level of distinct style. Her concoctions are a far cry from anything boring or tired. Her website is overflowing with eye candy, helpful tips, tutorials, great rooms and tons of inspiration. Not just for walls either! I think her floor designs and stencils are equally exciting. Sunny's Goodtime Paint colors are outstanding and a refreshing departure from the generic, boring shades and combos that are often associated with decorative and faux painting. All of her products are water-based which is an added, earth-friendly bonus that won't leave you gasping from fumes. You can order the supplies straight from the website, or find a local stockist near you. She offers glazes, color washes, stencils, supplies, removable monograms and her books. I guarantee that a visit to her website will inspire you and have you wondering whether perhaps you should get the Palm Beach Pink and pair it with a Cappuccino accent or try something even more daring? Trust me, you will want to put on some gloves, choose a stencil and get workin' on your own masterpiece - pronto!!

(All photos courtesy of Sunny's Goodtime Paints website.)

PERRIER, IT'S NOT JUST FOR DRINKING ANYMORE

Garden Conservatory
Most of us are familiar Perrier as the delightfully effervescent beverage, but now there's more to Source Perrier than just mineral water. There is a line of distinctive home furnishings which includes, art, mirrors, rugs, window panels, furniture and accessories created by designer Anita Tiburzi. I first spotted Source Perrier several years ago at a Pierre Deux shop, but now there's a website where you can peruse their expansive collection in gorgeous room settings at your leisure (above and below) and order online.

Allegra Drawing Room

Mayfair Drawing Room

Swedish Dining

Palm Court Bedchamber

Perrier Carriers - what a great accessory for entertaining!

Napoleon Celadon Chair - an unusual and beautiful shade for the classic Chiavari chair.

Dashwood Bullseye Mirror - a classic accent that would look perfect hanging above the piece below.......

Bergman Bureau - a very nice version of a classic Gustavian bureau. I think it could pass for a real antique!

Foxglove Lamp - to me, this accent lamp has a touch of granny-chic that could be the perfect touch of "character" for your room.

Ribbon Candy Carpet - I think this cheery rug would be ideal in a beach cottage or sunny little bungalow.

The Captiva Tonna Ceresvina Chairs - With beautiful handstitched needlepoint shells on the back and gorgeous blue leather for a practical seat covering, these Louis XVI style chairs are a very stylish seating option.

Regency Bamboo Canterbury - With her love of all things Chinoiserie, I could imagine these appealing to Jennifer Dwyer of Peak of Chic!

(all the above tremendously appealing photos are courtesy of the Source Perrier website)

THANKS, TONIC HOME

I just wanted to take a second to thank Wendy Garraty of Tonic Home for her kind mention today of my "House Portraits". I am so thankful for all of the positive reinforcement that is continually exchanged in the blogging community. Such a refreshing change from the negativity and ruthless competition that is often pervasive in our culture. I count myself very privileged to be a part of a community of people who believe in mutual encouragement.

There is such a privilege in being able to build a person up in whatever their gift may be, rather than to feel as if you have to demean someone or their work to protect your own position, keep control or get ahead of others. It is just this kind of attitude and insidious manipulation that destroys relationships and people. Though it sometimes works for a while, in the end, people who are using these kind of tactics end up losing what they are so desperately trying to hold on to. Instead of protecting their interests or "fortifying" their position or influence, they are actually taking a sledgehammer to it's very foundation. In undermining the value of others, they are only defeating themselves. They are completely unaware that, when you genuinely value others and treat them with the respect they deserve, it not only builds them up, but brings you tremendous benefits as well. Many people that devalue, manipulate and take advantage of others do it out of their own hurt, guilt and fear. Maybe because it's been done to them. That doesn't excuse it, but I am convinced that we all have the power to turn that around. We don't have to accept this kind of behavior, but we can refuse to come down to that level, even when it may seem that a person deserves it. "Eye for an eye" is not the way to go. We can pay them back - but in a different currency. A currency of restraint, grace, forgiveness and kindness. In doing so, we can stop the sick cycle of tearing others down and kill the spirit of vindictive activity at it's root.

I want to thank all the people I've met, especially since I started this blog, who have shown me such overwhelming support and kindness. People who are aware that, in supporting, encouraging and truly valuing others, they are making a priceless investment that will pay untold dividends. Thank you all for impacting my life with your kindness and I can only hope that I will use every opportunity I have to do the same!

HOME PORTRAIT COMMISSIONS

This is a recent "home portrait" I painted of a rowhouse for the editor of Washington, D.C. Daily Candy. The owner's baby is in the carriage in the foreground (click on for larger image). I would love to capture your home, vacation home, pet or favorite subject! A great gift idea or a wonderful option for this year's Holiday card. Contact me for more info.

ARTISTS PORTRAIT * MARITERE CASILLAS RICE

The lovely Maritere Casillas Rice, a gifted artist and photographer I met through Etsy.
Maritere was gracious enough to submit to a little"interview" and share some of her beautiful paintings and photographs with us.

Maritere's Etsy shop - Totart

Where were you born?
Beautiful Guadalajara, Mexico – but grew up in Monterrey, MX… went to college in Monterrey and later Washington, D.C. where I met my Husband.

One of her pieces - "Contemplating Nature"

What is your artistic background schooling (if any)?
None. I majored in International Business; however I grew up around music and art all my life… my Father was an avid and wonderful amateur photographer who taught me how to use a camera and capture special moments in life; my house was always full of music (specially The Beatles), I was enrolled in music and dance lessons from age 2, and later became part of my high school's and University's Drama Department (singing, dancing and acting). Throughout my teenage and early adulthood years I took a number of art and photography classes back in Mexico.

"I See Shades of Pink"

Have you always been creative and, if so, do you have an early memory of "making" something?
Yes; I cannot remember a time growing up when I wouldn't scribble drawings on notebooks, sketchbooks and coloring books. If we were traveling I would always carry a full set of crayons and coloring pencils together with a sketchbook. I remember taking pictures from an early age with my dad and creating collages to decorate my notebooks every school year… and of course, my room was a constant "area of opportunity", being rearranged almost every month (my mom was kind enough to let me experiment painting "techniques" on my bookcase).

"Thoughts of Winter and Fall"

What inspires you most creatively and gets your creative juices flowing?
Color! I love finding creative ideas browsing through art and home décor books, and magazines… though traveling has always inspired me the most! It's through the new experiences I live that I get most inspiration. I really enjoy translating an experience into a collage or painting, or capturing unique moments through my lens, and will constantly go back to happy memories of my life for inspiration.

"Buenos Aires Blues"

What are some of your favorite things or things that are essential to your success/well-being as a person and artist/business owner?

My family's and friend's support; their love and encouragement keep me going.

"Nature in Green and Yellow"

Where would you live if you could live anywhere?
Tough question… would love to be back in my beautiful and colorful Mexico! Though, I am constantly drawn towards the idea of living in Paris (I studied there and absolutely fell in love with the City), or moving back to Washington D.C. (sans the really cold January)… Europe perhaps! It has to be a place were I can raise a happy child ...

"Nature's Bloom"

What are the most challenging things for you about doing what you do?
Aside from being an artist, I am a mother, wife and teacher…. I would say being able to find my "creative time" it's the most difficult. I have a demanding schedule and lots of responsibilities both at home and work, so I constantly find myself staying up until the wee hours just to find time to update my Etsy Shop/blog or work on a my art… also promoting myself and acquiring new customers. Art is not a necessity but a pleasure/luxury to most buyers, which makes it challenging for artists to start a business.

"Mexican Sunset" one of Maritere's photographs

Where do you live and work?
I live in the Suburbs of Houston, TX with my wonderful husband and amazing son. Art wise, I work at home, and of course I always carry my camera with me; you never know when a creative opportunity is going to pop.

"Being a Child Again"

Favorite food?
Real Mexican Tacos, and Sushi!

Favorite music?
LOVE music! Always The Beatles, and the rest changes from time to time… I've been listening to a lot of James Blunt & Leona Lewis lately.

I would like to thank Maritere for taking the time out of her very busy schedule to share her work and life with us. Maritere is also a blogger and I know you will enjoy following her lfe and work here at: http://mariterecr.blogspot.com:80

I hope that all of my US readers have a safe and very enjoyable Independence Day weekend!