The Continuous Thread of Revelation

PLV

2011-04-20T16:47:00.001-04:00

Why can I not find these Pour la Victoire shoes anywhere?????

2011-04-18T11:49:00.002-04:00

Maybe Lindsey Bond will let me come by her cutie house in Birmingham. Or maybe I'll just drive around until I find it (in all my newly found free time).

Images via House Beautiful

2011-03-28T15:46:00.002-04:00

Inspiration for that restaurant I'm opening.... One day these ideas will come together (or that's the plan).

Image via The Haystack Needle

Life

2011-03-24T12:05:00.004-04:00

Image via Julian Bialowas

Food glorious food photography

2011-03-15T15:32:00.005-04:00

I love food photography almost as much as I love food and cooking. The blog What Katie Ate is so delicious that it almost makes me want to try some of these involved neo-British recipes.

Images via What Katie Ate

AL

2011-03-08T16:52:00.005-05:00

Love this cute house on Lake Martin by Tracery Interiors.

Speaking of Alabama.... Katie gave me the most awesome shirt from a print shop in a teeny tiny town near Lake Martin called Waverly, Alabama. Mine is yellow, which is even better.

Nicolas Mathéus Photography

2011-03-03T10:51:00.003-05:00

Pretty places, well-styled food, clean interiors... Photographer Nicolas Mathéus is a man after my own heart.

Images via Nicolas Mathéus

Black Friday

2011-02-25T10:16:00.005-05:00

I am totally enthralled by Vogue Paris Editor-in-Chief Emmanuelle Alt. This is the grown-up, edgy style icon/girl crush I have been needing recently. Such a good look (or am I just in a dark phase?).

Image via Seattle Styles

Image via What Sally Wore

Image via No Good For Me

Image via Nita-Karoliina

Image via Everyday Glamour

Image is from somewhere, I'm sure

Same for this one

The White House, chapter 2

2011-02-23T10:23:00.006-05:00

Ok, so I've seen this fabulous house on every design blog, but I had to post it, too. Especially since I'm pretty sure I was on board with this white thing way before the rest of the world. Ugh, once again I don't get recognition for starting international design trends.

Images via Desire to Inspire

Back to Reality

2011-02-09T11:54:00.003-05:00

Well, it appears my frequent vacations in Aspen are coming to an end. So, I'll just have to enjoy beautiful mountain homes by reading the mags. I love this sleek yet rustic condo in Aspen by Cheryl Tague as seen in House Beautiful.

Wishful thinking

2011-02-04T16:56:00.001-05:00

It's icy and gray in Houston, and I wish I were here... or had this in my life.

She's Crafty... And She's Just My Type

2011-01-31T13:03:00.009-05:00

... To quote the Beastie Boys. Anyway, do you know the blog PS I Made This? I'm so inspired. I'm going straight to Michael's after work because I have that kind of time on my hands.

And in somewhat unrelated news, how great does my girlfriend Mila Kunis look here? This gives me inspiration to wear another color besides black.

I want a labradorite ring NOW!

2011-01-28T17:02:00.003-05:00

via Rock and Gold

Kara Ross at Bergdorf Goodman

Dell Fox Jewelry

Zinc furniture

2011-01-27T11:17:00.003-05:00

I guess zinc is having a moment right now, and I am such a sucker for a trend, but I love the look. It's a great indoor/outdoor material because it doesn't rust. Plus, it looks so great with the rustic, French look.

19th c. Zinc Covered Table via Villa Anna

Zinc Boxes from South of Market

Zinc Countertops in a House by Ruthie Sommers via House Beautiful

Zinc lined bath tub in designer Penelope Bianchi's home via House Beautiful

Zinc wrapped refrigerator in a Houston house by Eleanor Cummings via House Beautiful

Zinc top vanity in a Texas house by Ginger Barber via House Beautiful

Zinc Table via Velvet & Linen

Andrea Barnett Jewelry

2010-12-28T10:51:00.006-05:00

When we were at a Christmas party this season, I met a girl who was wearing the prettiest necklaces. She said the pieces were made by Andrea Barnett out of Dallas and available at Charde right by my house in Houston. I've loved the religious jewelry I've been seeing lately, but it's just so outrageously priced. The Andrea Barnett line is in the $100-$200 range, so much more affordable than other lines (but just as pretty).

Images via Charde

My kind of place

2010-12-27T14:45:00.001-05:00

Dining Room by Rik Storms

Work stuff

2010-12-22T10:38:00.003-05:00

We decided to build a 15th c. chapel in our parking lot at work to evoke some holiday cheer (since it's been about 70 degrees everyday).

I like

2010-12-20T17:10:00.003-05:00

this painting by Marie Kazalia, and this website in general. Check it out.

2010-12-16T11:16:00.003-05:00

Has there ever been a more perfect use of a Hermes blanket?

Image via Elle Decor, Design by M. Elle

All over the place

2010-12-13T08:46:00.001-05:00

Seems to be the best way to describe my taste...I had a really hard time with your assignment (and tried to avoid overlap).

Bill Hudgins

Summerour & Associates - Beth Webb & Nancy Pendergrast Duffey

Kathy Guyton & Chip Cheatham

The Best of the Best

2010-12-10T16:37:00.004-05:00

This is fun - Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles recently published their top 100 spaces from the last 10 years of publication. I love so many of these so it was hard to choose, but here are my top 3. Now you look at the options, and tell me your favorite. Go here to see the top 100.

Bobby McAlpine

Kay Douglass

A surprise favorite, Kelly Wolf Anthony.

Countdown to 2011

2010-12-09T11:34:00.002-05:00

While I think New Year's Eve is usually way overrated, I would like to know my plans for this year so I have an excuse to purchase this dress....navy's the new black.

Madison Marcus via Saks

Santa Baby

2010-12-08T22:26:00.007-05:00

I can only hope that Santa will bring me one of the following:

Love love all Kara Ross items, especially the Prunella Clutch. It looks like something my stylish grandmother would have had.

Cannot. Stop. Cleaning. We used to have a Dyson vacuum at my old job, and it was amazing. I'd get it for myself, but it's so expensive, so on the X-mas List now.

First seen on my girlfriend Taylor Jacobson, the Jennifer Zeuner cross necklace.

Ina's newest cookbook.

I feel like the standard Barbour jacket is something I can use for the rest of my life.

To do

2010-12-02T11:50:00.002-05:00

Via Retro To Go

2010-11-27T12:14:00.006-05:00

I saw Elizabeth Stanley's work in a recent Austin Monthly and loved everything. It's very fresh and modern and very Austin.

Fabulous photography from her website:

From the Austin Monthly article:

Tequila-Lime Shrimp Tacos with Chipotle Cream Sauce

2010-11-17T15:07:00.005-05:00

Excellent new recipe to try. Don't attempt this without the food processor, though. In fact, if you don't have a food processor, go buy it now. It's life changing. Also don't let the cream sauce scare you.... it's all pretty healthy.

TEQUILA LIME SHRIMP TACOS WITH CHIPOTLE CREAM SAUCE

1.5 lbs large, raw shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails removed (fresh is best, but expensive)

MARINADE:

Juice and rind of 1 medium orange

Juice and rind of 2 medium limes

1/4 c. tequila

1 tbsp. granulated sugar

CHIPOTLE CREAM SAUCE:

8 oz. light sour cream

1 clove garlic

2 tbsp. finely chopped red onion

1 canned chipotle chile in adobo sauce (seeded and chopped - one chile, not one can)

1 tsp. adobo sauce (from the can above)

1/2 tsp. ground cumin

1/8 tsp. salt

1 tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro

1 tbsp. freshly squeezed lime juice

ADDITIONAL INGREDIENTS:

1 tbsp. vegetable oil

1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced

1/2 red onion, sliced

FOR SERVING:

8 soft taco sized flour tortillas, warmed

1/2 head purple cabbage, shredded

1/2 c. chopped fresh cilantro

Lime wedges

Avocado, chopped

Onions, chopped

1. Marinate Shrimp: Place all marinade ingredients in a large zip bag. Add shrimp. Zip closed and move bag around the coat shrimp. Place flat in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, turning every so often to make sure the marinade is reaching all shrimp.

2. Prepare Sauce: Place all ingredients in food processor. Cover and refrigerate until ready for use.

3. Cook the Shrimp: Heat oil in large skillet to medium-heat. Saute bell pepper and onion until slightly charred. Drain shrimp from marinade and add to pan. Stir often, and cook just until shrimp turn pink and curl up. Remove from heat.

4. Assemble Tacos: In warmed tortillas, place shrimp, peppers and onions. Add cabbage, drizzle with chipotle cream sauce and sprinkle with cilantro, onion and avocado. Squeeze lime over taco.

I've got royal fever

2010-11-16T17:14:00.008-05:00

In honor of the official announcement that Prince William is engaged, I plan to start dressing, acting and looking more like Kate Middleton (and less like a frumpy lesbian).

Could have fooled me

2010-11-12T12:18:00.005-05:00

Looking at these photos from Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles, I'd assume this was a loft apartment in San Francisco or New York. This is actually stylist Thea Beasley's apartment in Marietta, Ga., of all places. I love the eclectic look, and of course I cannot resist an all-white home. I also love Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles for constantly surprising me every month with new looks that don't follow the trends.

Georgia on my mind

2010-11-11T16:06:00.007-05:00

I love this weekend home from Garden and Gun. It's in Columbus, Ga., and both the architect and interior designer are UGA grads. Even though they used one of the best architects and designers (Jim Strickland and Melanie Davis respectively), it just seems so unplanned and like it has been in the family for years and years. I think the true sign of a talented designer (or architect) is if a home looks un-designed.

Reasons why I'm quitting my job to be an artist

2010-11-09T16:57:00.011-05:00

I read in the NY Times yesterday that several contemporary works set price records at a recent Phillips de Pury & Company auction. In fact, in one evening they sold $117 million in contemporary art. Hmmmm.

$63 million

Andy Warhol's "Men in Her Life" (1962)

Image via Art Market Monitor

$6.8 million

Takashi Murakami's "Miss KO1" (1997)

Image via MSNBC

$2.9 million

Maurizio Cattelan's "Charlie" (2003)

Image via Flickr

$4.5 million

Felix Gonzalez-Torres's "Untitled (Portrait of Marcel Brient)" (2003)

Image via IExpo2010

$3.6 million

Thomas Schutte's "Grosse Geist No. 15"

Image via Fadwebsite.com

Winter Wardrobe

2010-11-03T12:38:00.002-04:00

Club Monaco never seems to fail me...and now with their collection on Shopbop you don't even have to make it into the stores.

all images via shopbop/ shop the look here

Something pretty for a Friday...

2010-10-22T08:53:00.004-04:00

Gurhan Jewlery - amazing, expensive....but if I could afford it, I'd say worth it.

Rose Cut Lemon Citrine Ring

Oval Turquoise Ring

Antique Japanese Satsuma Ring

Gold Quartz Ring

Lemon Citrine ring again...I wish that was my hand. Sigh, life is hard.

First four pictures from Gurhan website

Final picture courtesy Jerger Jewelers

Happy WEEKEND! (finally)

Perfect

2010-10-15T13:10:00.001-04:00

Image via That Kind of Woman

Do you know Toad Hall?

2010-10-12T15:49:00.004-04:00

I thought you'd be interested in this (Mary). This is the Beall's property in Tennessee called Toad Hall as seen in Architectural Digest. Suzanne Kasler did the designer (she also did Blackberry Farm), and Jack Davis was the architect. Both Kasler and Davis are really good at making new homes look old.

Setting the style

2010-10-12T10:31:00.007-04:00

The most sought-after Houston interior designer easily is Pam Pierce. She truly has a cult following here. Pam Pierce pretty much sets all the trends in high end Houston interior design very much like Suzanne Kasler does in Atlanta. Here are some images of her work from her new website:

Help me do this 'do

2010-10-07T23:52:00.002-04:00

Please help me do my hair like this for the weekend, and my wedding, and that dinner party I'm sure I'll be invited to soon, and any other event that requires me to look incredibly chic.

Like, Love, or Hate?

2010-10-01T11:28:00.002-04:00

I feel like the thing with trends is you either like 'em, love 'em, or hate 'em. So how do you feel about clogs? Elle calls them 'controversial'; Rachel Zoe calls them one of the hottest trends of the season (actually she also calls them controversial as well...) What do you think?

Kors Michael Kors, Shopbop

My personal verdict? Love....but I think I'd have to ease into them and wear them under wide leg jeans at first.

Revisiting Miami

2010-09-30T11:37:00.006-04:00

I'm still lingering on my wonderful trip to Miami. The best part was where we stayed, The Raleigh Hotel. It was just so COOL. Here are the different press quotes that pretty much say it all because I'm not creative enough to write a description on my own: "Old-school glamour meets modern Miami... Outside, lush gardens surround the opulent scallop-shaped swimming pool - built for the film star Esther Williams. Pose poolside, martini in hand, on Sunday afternoons for Miami's most fashionable weekly party session..."

I definitely want to go back for my bachelorette party in 2021.

Images via The Raleigh Hotel

Something old, something new

2010-09-28T14:53:00.006-04:00

I got the following photos from an Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles article called "New Meets Old," which is a perfect description of this home. I really like the look. The furnishings are more traditional than I usually like, but it all works so well. The architecture is perfect. Just perfect. (IMHO)

Images via Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles

Photos by Erica George Dines

"Betty" Francis (née Hofstadt, formerly Draper)

2010-09-27T15:25:00.006-04:00

January Jones is always looking good. I like her style.

I'm thinking about taking this photo to the hair "salon." Although that would mean I have to stop going to Super Cuts because they would not do well with anything other than a "blunt" cut.

I die

2010-09-24T14:51:00.003-04:00

Castello di Vicarello in Maremma, Italy.

Images via Remodelista

A Million Little Thoughts

2010-09-23T08:57:00.003-04:00

I feel like ever since our move last weekend my brain has been even more scattered than usual. Everytime I enter my apartment I start at least 2 projects and generally get around to finishing half of one of them. LOTS to do. So yesterday when I was procrastinating and walking around our new neighborhood, I stumbled upon what I think may be my new favorite home goods (I guess we would call it?) store, Fishs Eddy. This place is amazing (/I'm a huge dork?) and filled with lots of stuff I don't need, but here are a few things that I'm planning on going back to get....

Who wouldn't want a blue hand? But seriously, I think this could be cool on my dresser in my room as a splash of color, and I think I could hang easily tangled jewelry from the fingers?

"Nut bowls", well that's what they sell them as anyway, I think this could also be great for jewelry...especially if my new furniture piece were to have mini little cubbies to sort them/display the bowls.

They also have an entire colored dinnerware collection which I think I want a few pieces of to throw in with our white bowls and plates...I feel like we need a little more excitement with kitchen cabinets being visible now...

All images courtesy Fishs Eddy website, except for this professional shot of my kitchen via moi.

Weekend plan?

2010-09-22T16:50:00.004-04:00

This looks fun. Five Leaves in Brooklyn. Let me know how it is.

I want my next pantry to have this vibe.

Images via Remodelista

Tucker for Target

2010-09-22T09:34:00.004-04:00

Well I had discussed my love for the brand Tucker in a previous post, but now I'm hear to brag about my new purchases from Tucker's newest venture....Tucker for Target! I have had the date of their debut marked on my calendar for weeks, and lucky for me I logged on in time to get 2 shirts before anything close to my size sold out (did end up going up in size though so I could get both shirts in one size). Before I received my purchases I was a bit hesitant to what the fabric was going to be, mainly because the fabric of the original Tucker line is so wonderful; HOWEVER, I was pleasantly surprised. My new purchases came in the mail yesterday (shipping from Target, while free, proved to be a small pain in the ass), and they are really great pieces for work. I like them much better tucked in, because they can appear a little boxy....But for $30 who can complain.

Kudos Target, sorry I doubted your ability to bring fashion to the masses.

Images from Target

Why Didn't I Think of This

2010-09-21T17:52:00.008-04:00

I had a big "Why Didn't I Think of That" moment this weekend. I swear that SOMETIMES all it takes to be a famous artist is a good idea and not necessarily talent in the classical sense. But I repeat, SOMETIMES. Anyway, this weekend my mom came in town which gave me the impetus I needed to figure out what to do with this huge blank canvas (literally) I've had hanging on my wall for months. I had it there hoping that the idea would come, but alas, no good ideas so I resorted to copying someone else's good idea. Then there it was.... WHY didn't I think of this!

Atlanta artist Scott Ingram's series of nail polish paintings is my latest idea to blatantly copy (for personal use!!). It's economical, easy and really great looking.

Image via Apartment Therapy

Cover of Atl Homes and Lifestyles

A Room by Suzanne Kasler

I'm half way through my own version, and it's looking pretty darn good. I'm great at dripping finger nail polish!

I sort of don't feel bad about copying Ingram's idea in my own house. Because Morris Louis's did kind of have this idea years ago (minus nail polish)...

A white wonder on the water

2010-09-17T13:14:00.002-04:00

Cute lake house in Hot Springs, Arkansas by Bear-Hill Interiors. I. love. white. For more pics and info go here.

New art stuff

2010-09-10T10:38:00.007-04:00

I recently read that my design crush, Darryl Carter, has a favorite artist named Margaret Boozer. When asked about his own art and design interest, he says, "My dear friend and artist Margaret Boozer, who can make anything out of "local" earth, from the most linear porcelain tables to hybrids of art and architecture such as walls that slide."

Here you can see Boozer's work Composition Discs of Local Earth in a Darryl Carter designed room.

Red Dirt Drawing, 2, 2006

White Dirt Drawing, 2006

Dirt Drawing, 1, 2006

Blue Rift, 2004

Crop Rotation, 2006

Cross Eye Bird, 2003

Red rover, Red rover,

2010-09-01T11:03:00.006-04:00

Please ship these things right over.

Wow, Madwell's really done it again I.M.H.O (in my HUMBLE opinion). I'm loving the army/safari/preppy blend...

And I'd like this to be my new travel outfit. Please ship it to arrive by tomorrow.

All looks by Madewell

A Change in the Rotation

2010-08-30T23:18:00.004-04:00

I have a rotation of three work lunches: egg salad, chicken salad and arugula salad. So it was a welcomed change today when coworker Daniela offered me some of her Tuna and White Bean Salad to go on top of my arugula. I happen to love canned tuna, but I think you'd like this recipe even if you don't like canned tuna because the lemon/capers neutralize the fishy taste. It's just delicious!

2 6 oz. cans tuna, drained

1 15 oz. can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

1 12 oz. jar roasted red peppers, drained and chopped

2 tbsp. capers

3 tbsp. lemon juice (Daniela suggested more)

1 tbsp. EVOO

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

1/2 tsp. black pepper

In large bowl, combine tuna, beans, red peppers, capers. In separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice, oil, salt, and black pepper.

Pour the vinaigrette over the tuna mixture and toss. Chill.

Recipe and image via A Big Mouthful

On another note

2010-08-29T23:01:00.006-04:00

I was having a little bit of a moral hangover for being so hard on Houston in my last post. Soooo, in an effort to make up for it, I am posting some photos of this sunny, rustic and inspirational home in Nimes, France. It's just perfect.

Images via Light Locations

Houston, We Have a Problem (that was too easy)

2010-08-27T18:15:00.004-04:00

I've ranted about this before, but Houston has the ugliest homes I've ever seen. For proof, I've attached some homes that are for sale in Houston. And these are in "nice" neighborhoods!! Anyway, what sparked this post is that I just read that the "McMansion Era is Over" (go here to read the full article), but I am just concerned that Houstonians actually just like the look.

Images via HAR

Weekend shopping

2010-08-27T12:29:00.011-04:00

After one particularly heinous car repair bill, I put myself on probation from buying. This lasted for about 2 weeks, and now I am ready to start spending. But I am approaching this new buying with a thrifty (-ish) attitude (see choices below). Because let me tell you, if you spend your whole paycheck on clothes and food, you will be punished by a $2000 car bill, and you will have to sell your soul for a new Motor Mount.

Leopard Blanket Scarf

Grey Booties

Airy Shirt (sidenote: I already have this, and I am ordering it in two new colors. Best purchase of the summer. Its so cute with out the belt under cardigans, etc. I recommend.)

Clog-like Shoes

Mexican Border Necklace

Maybe If My Shirt Says It, I'll Start to Believe It

Fool's Farewell (to summer)

2010-08-25T11:45:00.003-04:00

Dream apartment

2010-08-20T10:04:00.004-04:00

To be completely happy with my living space, all I would need would be this 850 sq foot apartment (I know that probably sounds TINY to a non NY'er, but it's actually quite big for a 1 bedroom). Maybe it's attainable...one day?

Pictures via Apartment Therapy...click here for the full slideshow

Ed Note: My dream apt has no windows in the living room (that I can see); it really is realistic!

la valise! la valise!

2010-08-18T09:50:00.006-04:00

Lately I've been really wanting a great overnight bag (une valise!), and it's been quite a search to find one that I like. It seems the vast majority of bags out there are overpriced and tacky...or wonderful and expensive. No thanks Tory, I don't need a $500 nylon gym bag. I don't understand why more companies do not make a practical, reasonably priced LEATHER tote.

The J Crew Leather Suitcase - if this bag wasn't so beyond my price point I think I would really like it ($$$$$)

The J Crew Trunk - so impractical, but I have to admit...I love. ($$$$$)

The LV Travel Bag...chic or tacky? Can go both ways if you ask me, depending on who is carrying it (and if there's a dog/rat inside).

Mulberry Large Clipper - my favorite duffel for sure, still a bit out of my price range

Brics Travel Bag - My compromise to the Mulberry, looks similar and at a much better price point

All pictures courtesy respective websites

Elbow Patches

2010-08-16T09:17:00.002-04:00

I love them - for boys and girls. Thus, I think this DVF jacket is awesome and a really great piece for any closet.

On a less practical note...I think this jacket is pretty awesome too. (Try and imagine it without the army green shorts...could be versatile, maybe?)

In summary, I'm liking the DVF collection a lot. Thanks.

All images courtesy Saks

Oh I hope I win

2010-08-11T17:26:00.005-04:00

If you sign up to "follow" South of Market's blog, you are entered to win this awesome light fixture. It matches my white living room just perfectly. Please please PLEASE let me win! (The blog is actually fabulous, so it's totally worth it).

Rural Intelligence

2010-08-10T10:25:00.006-04:00

Lovely renovated home in Columbia County, NY that I saw in Rural Intelligence. "A shed across the back now houses the kitchen, where on the weekends they play with the fabulous, fresh ingredients they pick up at Guido's and nearby Sir William Farm. In winter, when they are there, the entire structure is heated with a Vermont Castings stove that Edmund keeps fed with firewood culled from their own property." That's my kind of second home.

Images via Rural Intelligence

Pending trip

2010-08-04T13:01:00.002-04:00

My sister just sent me these photos of Austin to get me prepared for my vacation tomorrow - wooohoooo! Can you believe this is Austin, Texas and not Italy or Santa Barbara or the Mediterranean?

2010-08-03T11:49:00.004-04:00

I work with French antiques all day. I came from a background where I worked with mid-century modern all day. This house by Betty Burgess appeals to both sides of my taste. This is actually Derek Lowe's house (Atlanta Brave), so it's nice to know that they aren't all living OTP. It also is the same house that featured those wonderful blue glass bottles. And craziest of all, this was a spec house! Go here for the full article.

Images via Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles

Photography by Erica George Dines

That and $995 can by you a purse

2010-07-30T11:32:00.003-04:00

Marni Leather Cross-Body Bag.

Images via Net-a-Porter

Wish we were here

2010-07-27T10:39:00.006-04:00

I thought you (Mary Catherine) would enjoy photos of the 2009 Cashiers Designer Showhouse. Even though it's hard for me to see a beautiful quaint kitchen by my heinous apparently designed by my ex-boss. Don't you hate when someone horrible is really good at something!

Images via Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles

Photos by Erica George Dines

A Little House of My Own

2010-07-23T10:36:00.004-04:00

Lately, I've just been thinking that a small house somewhere in Alabama with a front porch and edible garden is really all I want.

Images via L Kae Interiors

Feeling Blue

2010-07-22T11:21:00.010-04:00

As per usual, this month's Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles featured a home that I'm just in love with. My favorite room was this paneled study with royal blue accents. Go here for the full article.

I especially was intrigued by the blue pharmacy bottle arrangement on the mantel.

Images via Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles

My mom has always collected old glass bottles so I loved to see a fresh approach to this type of collection.

Images via Antique Bottles

I did some research, and I think I'm a blue bottle enthusiast now. Turns out, that there is a serious science behind these type bottles. The blue glass bottles were almost always used to hold medicines, poisons or castor oil. The ones in the photo above are in order from least rare to most rare (left to right). You can tell that embossed bottles are more rare.

Now where to start said collection. My mom digs them up from an area that used to be full of old Alabama homes, but was bull-dozed to make apartments (typical that old homes were torn down, also typical that my mom spends her time digging for bottles). There are other ways, too:

There are many single bottles available on the Vintage side of Etsy.com like this one.

Or this one.

Try Ebay listings for Cobalt Blue Glass Bottles, too. There are tons out there. Love this idea and love a good internet search.

Make this recipe!

2010-07-21T13:34:00.003-04:00

This is an amazing dessert recipe. I made it over the 4th for the family, and it was such a big hit that I made it again the next weekend for a new crowd. It is definitely a show-stealer. This recipe is actually SO easy, and I promise you, it looks like the cover of a cookbook when it comes out of the oven (besides being incredibly delicious). Note: Definitely add ice cream to the top, preferably Haagen-Dazs (obvi).

For the fruit:

2 lbs firm, ripe peaches (6-8 peaches)

2 tsp. grated lemon zest (I did NOT include this)

2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice

1/2 c. granulated sugar

1/4 c. all purpose flour

1 c. fresh blueberries

For the crumble:

1 c. all purpose flour

1/3 c. granulated sugar

1/4 c. light brown sugar, lightly packed

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/4 lb. (1 stick) cold, unsalted butter, diced

Directions

Preheat oven to 350.

Immerse peaches in boiling water for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until their skins peel off easily. Place them immediately in cold water. Peel and slice peaches, and place them in a large bowl. Add the lemon zest (if using), lemon juice, granulated sugar and flour. Toss well. Gently mix in blueberries. Allow the mixture to sit for 5 minutes. Spoon mixture into ramekins.

For the topping, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon and butter in the bowl of an electric mixture fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on low speed until the butter is the size of peas. Rub the mixture with your fingertips until it's in big crumbles, then sprinkle evenly over the fruit. Place the ramekins on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the tops are browned and crisp and the juices are bubbly. Serve warm.

Great kitchen

2010-07-20T13:10:00.004-04:00

Open shelving, shades of grey, industrial pendant, all white dinnerware. Yes, please.

I cannot find a source for this!! Sorry.

Kid's Rooms

2010-07-19T10:44:00.005-04:00

Have been thinking about kids rooms recently. Here are some of my favs:

Love this outfit...

2010-07-15T14:51:00.002-04:00

Neutral colors a

Something sparkly a

Braided belt a

image via Vogue

Replicate me

2010-07-12T18:16:00.001-04:00

Any ideas on how to replicate this coral-like bulletin board esque wall hanging (for lack of a better word)?

Via Nest Egg

In the clutch

2010-07-09T08:30:00.004-04:00

Kate and I have this game we play when we get new magazines where I fold down the pages of everything I like, and then she goes through and tries to guess what on that page I liked. Point being, I fold down a lot of pages and never give them a second look...well the other day I finally got to tearing some out to look things up online to see if I liked them as much as I did in the mag. Well these clutches by Mar Y Sol were definitely worth it. I think they are adorable as well as being extremely well priced (around $78...), and they would be the perfect summer bag!

*I just found a coupon code for 30% off anything on this entire website! Enter 'lucky30' at checkout...

All pictures courtesy of Mar Y Sol

Patriotic Design

2010-07-01T16:41:00.006-04:00

It's not so much the red, white and blue I'm drawn to, but more just Americana. I love old American stuff, flag included.

Chipper Joseph via House Beautiful

Malcolm McDowell via House Beautiful

Gary McBournie

Practicali-tee

2010-06-30T15:02:00.002-04:00

Apparently Patrick Robinson is bringing the new 'perfect, practical' tee to Gap...and they hit the stores today. I think I just might be interested...

SOM

2010-06-22T13:56:00.003-04:00

South of Market consistently gets it right:

Pewter and Cream Cross Pillow

Oliver Sofa

Framed French Wood Hangers

Axel Vervoordt: Timeless Interiors

Mushroom Bottle

Pair Slipcovered Wing Chairs

Large Lead Pendant Light

Belgian Coffee Table

Zinc Boxes

Handkerchief Planter

Artist's Retreat

2010-06-18T16:51:00.002-04:00

Located in the French countryside, this ancient house inhabited by an artist features exposed wood floors, doors, banisters and beams.

Images via Remodelista

Bienvenido a Miami

2010-06-17T11:05:00.003-04:00

Lovely trip to Miami last week. Stayed at The Raleigh - one of my absolute favorite hotels yet. Had some good food, but the best had to be Casa Tua, Michael's Genuine Food and Drink or Dogma. Definitely worth a second trip (and many more).

SATC 2...

2010-06-16T11:48:00.005-04:00

Haven't seen the movie, not sure how much I even want to see the movie, but I did enjoy looking at the pictures of Carrie and Big's NYC apt...

Pics via Design Happens

The Perfect Poolhouse

2010-06-16T10:46:00.002-04:00

Image via Phoebe Howard

...it's my new obsession

2010-06-09T12:49:00.006-04:00

No, not pink, but gray(grey?) is my new obsession. White is always a summer favorite of mine, but being so ghastly pale I've learned that gray is a much better alternative for me + it looks great with white pants (I think).

A few of my favs from Vince:

Images courtesy Shopbop.com

And then as well as being gray, this new Forever 21 tee is my favorite purchase lately. I hadn't been in the store in ages, but I will be ordering these in mass online soon. What's so great about it you say? Well the fabric is so thin and soft (maybe this is bc it's 50% suprima cotton?) and then secondly, its super long which I always love...

Forever 21 Tee

Revisiting a look

2010-06-04T11:13:00.005-04:00

I've posted about Houston designer Sally Wheat before, and I see her home on blogs all the time, but just wanted to revisit. I think her look is very realistic (vs. dream houses that I'll never have)!

What to wear, what to wear

2010-06-02T10:56:00.003-04:00

In my old age, I'm having trouble thinking of creative outfits. I feel like we were all so good at that once upon a time (when we had more time), but I've lost my touch. Luckily, the blogger from All Things Lovely has a really inspirational Polyvore account here.

Home Away from Home

2010-05-27T15:45:00.002-04:00

I wish I had before/after pics for this one...but these pictures are of Gwyneth Paltrow's temporary Nashville apartment (featured today on her blog GOOP). The designer, Annette Joseph, renovated this self described industrial space into a much more child-friendly, comfortable home in just 10 DAYS (from first meeting - so 10 days to plan and decorate) and on a limited budget (but I think Gwyneth's definition of 'limited' is a bit different than my own). I think the result of her week and half project is pretty cool, especially for just a temporary residence.

All pictures courtesy GOOP

Musings on Houston Homes

2010-05-26T10:32:00.007-04:00

I'm warming up to Houston. The food is great, there is so much to do and I actually like the heat. BUT, I still really miss the beautiful old homes in Atlanta. I guess it's that "Everything's Bigger in Texas" mentality, but the houses here are so new and McMansion-like (there are SOME exceptions of course). While reading a recent article in Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles, I realized what is missing here: a timeless style. Homes that will only get more beautiful with time. In Houston, they will only be bulldozed to build a bigger spec house (eek.... a little bitter?)! Just looking at these houses from the article makes me miss the old, established, tasteful homes in Atlanta (and Souper Jenny).

All images via atlantahomesmag.com

Insert pun off Meg Ryan movie here

2010-05-24T18:28:00.003-04:00

I'm sure everyone has seen this by now, but this is Meg Ryan's adorable beach house from Elle Decor. Sometimes celebrity houses are so gaudy (what was Jennifer Aniston's all about?), but this house is perfect.

Spain Trip Pt. 2

2010-05-21T11:11:00.002-04:00

Amazing home for sale in Spain. Go here for more info. I'd be lucky to ever vacation at a place like this, much less live. But you just never know.....

Look at this amazing home for sale in Spain.

Digital Fashion

2010-05-20T11:44:00.002-04:00

I just read a really interesting article in WSJ about the way digital printing is changing the high fashion world. Basically designers are taking photos of things ranging from scenery,like the garden pool below, to peeling paint in a subway, and then uploading the pictures onto their computer and playing with them until they get a design they can then use to make a dress/outfit, etc. This process has been in existence for a long time, but recently the quality has been improved to create better, more realistic prints, allowing high-end designers to adopt or consider using the process. Some designers say they will never make the change and others love it...what do you think?

Before:

After:

Akris Spring 2009

Before:

After:

Akris Fall 2010

Before:

After:

Helmut Lang Fall 2010

All pictures courtesy WSJ

Flowers and Photos

2010-05-18T12:41:00.001-04:00

I love it when people incorporate old pictures of their parents into their wedding, like on the guest book table, etc. So when a friend sent me her friend's wedding pics, this topiary with photos immediately jumped out at me as a new and cool way to display those photos (or any photos you wanted to share):

When I grow up

2010-05-13T11:17:00.004-04:00

One day I will have a range that has a faucet for filling up pots. I mean, what a dream. I hate carrying big pots sloshing with water all the way to the stove.

White is Right

2010-05-12T13:09:00.005-04:00

I. Love. White. It's so impractical. I have a white sofa and chairs, and we have to wash the slip cover twice a day. But all I can think about is my all-white dream house.

Images via Belgian Pearls blog

A cute little thing

2010-05-06T11:19:00.001-04:00

Just bought this address stamp from Etsy.com. I love Etsy. This is a great gift for a wedding present or birthday or just for yourself.

And another...

2010-05-05T13:25:00.002-04:00

My fav, Sienna, she's so freaking pretty.

in Pucci

Image from Elle.com

The Costume Institute Gala at the Met

2010-05-04T09:11:00.002-04:00

My favorites (in no particular order):

Kate Hudson in Stella McCartney

SJP in Halston Heritage

Kate Bosworth in Valentino Haute Couture

Emma Watson in Burberry

Amber Valetta in Versace

Pictures via WSJ and Telegraph.co.uk

Wishful Thinking...

2010-04-28T17:45:00.002-04:00

One day, I'll have a shower like this in my 2nd (of 3) home...and my life will be complete.

Cheers to wishful thinking...and the beach tomorrow!

Image courtesy Young House Love

Solved, again

2010-04-28T12:30:00.005-04:00

My dad and I have a running route in Birmingham that goes through all the neighborhoods around our house. We always pass this huge Tudor-style house that has always been there but just went under a HUGE renovation. I just came across the house on Houzz.com. Tracery Interiors did the design; Dungan Nequette were the architects.

Notably (unhealthy) meal of the week

2010-04-26T11:11:00.004-04:00

But so incredibly delicious....

Ingredients:

Kosher salt

1/2 c. heavy cream

3 oz. white truffle butter

Freshly ground black pepper

1 (8.82 oz.) package fine tagliarelle dried pasta (or egg fettuccine)

3 tbsp. chopped fresh chives

3 oz. parmesan, shaved with vegetable peeler

Directions:

Add 1 tbsp. salt to a large pot of water and bring to a boil.

Meanwhile, in a large saute pan, heat the cream over medium heat until it comes to a simmer. Add the truffle butter, 1 tsp. salt and 1/2 tsp. pepper, lower the heat to very low and swirl the butter until melted. Keep warm over VERY low heat (or else curdles.... as I found out).

Add the pasta to boiling water and cook according to directions. When pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 c. cooking water, then drain pasta. Add the drained pasta to the saute pan and toss with the truffle cream mixture. As the pasta absorbs the sauce, add as much of the reserved cooking water, as necessary, to keep the pasta very creamy.

Serve the pasta in shallow bowls and garnish each serving with a generous sprinkling of chives and shaved parmesan. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and serve at once.

OMG this is good.

Shopping the style

2010-04-16T11:23:00.005-04:00

One of my favorite rooms is this living area by my design crush Atelier AM:

I really am drawn to the vases on the shelf. I just found some really great hand-made on Etsy to recreate this look. $35 for this one, too!

Small Matte Blue Green Vase from Etsy

Thought

2010-04-14T22:46:00.002-04:00

I've decided I am photosynthetic. Sunshine makes me feel like this:

Image via Max Wanger

Like

2010-04-14T10:52:00.001-04:00

Not my style so much but like the idea.

Style Me Pretty

Lovely Bathroom Idea

2010-04-13T13:02:00.002-04:00

Image via Cote de Texas (Ginger Barber Design)

Dream Pantry

2010-04-09T14:21:00.003-04:00

Image via Design*Sponge

Tom Scheerer

2010-04-08T10:29:00.003-04:00

I was just perusing Tom Scheerer's website after seeing evidence of his genius on South of Market's blog, and wow, when I was done I had so many images saved there was no way to post them all. So instead I narrowed them down to my favorite groups of pictures from his Beach collection...patterned walls, dark walls, white walls. I could spend all day on his website...

And finally a picture I couldn't group with any others...but didn't want to leave out.

All images courtesy Tom Scheerer Inc.