Beeutiful By Design

Mad for Plaid Tassel House

2011-12-04T16:31:00.017-05:00

After winning this stunning tassel from Tassel House at Susan's Between Naps on the Porch, I knew I wanted plaid to be apart of the decorating in the breakfast room this year.

See the delicious layers of ribbons including the plaid!

I hung the tassel by the desk area of the room.Over by the eating area I put two apple and pine cone hurricanes.

All three of these pictures were taken one after another.

Sigh, someday I will learn photography and my pics will be normal.

I like the beaded fruit in combination with the rustic pine cones.

The shelves above the island were decorated with a pine garland
along with some cardinal birds and plaid votives.

I thought these matched well against the woodsy feel of the room.

I'm joining Between Naps on the Porch for Met Monday; A Stroll Thru Life for Tabletop Tuesday and From My Front Porch to Yours.

Ready for Christmas time!

2011-12-01T20:27:00.003-05:00

Hope your Christmas decorating is coming together - our cat Marbles seems to be ready - he came in the front door walked over to the tree and sat like this in front of it - just had to take a picture! To me it says come on Christmas I'm ready for you!

Seated Dinner for 30

2011-11-30T21:13:00.013-05:00

Welcome to our seated Thanksgiving for 30 (ok it was 27 but who's counting). I went with neutral dishes so that the accessories could shine, quite literally since I used silver and gold. Another bonus from using silver and gold is you can use a lot of pieces you already own, therefore cutting down on the costs. I rented the plates, which were ivory with a gold band, for 35 cents a piece. This meant we could scrape and load them back into their carriers and no dishes to be done! The silver chargers were on sale at Christmas Tree Shops for $1 each. I will reuse these next year when I host Christmas Eve dinner for my family.

We were chasing rain clouds the day I took these so some are quite shadowy I apologize! Here you can see the base linen round tablecloth's I rented for the three tables along with the gold toppers I bought at Christmas Tree Shops for $4 each! I think I will get miles out of the toppers for both autumn and holiday.

My candle rings for each table are actually the napkin rings from this post.

Each placesetting had a Thanksgiving cracker, caspari turkey napkin, and an ivory sheer bag which contained the flatware and was adorned with a gold acorn. I found the gold acorn's at Wal-Mart in the Christmas ornament aisle. Six for $1.96! Caspari napkins, while paper, are so beautiful I couldn't resist! More from the visit to their store in Virginia here.

After scattering some fall leaves around the tables, I filled the silver mint julep cups with roses and glittered gold and silver curly que picks. What would a Kentucky Thanksgiving be without mint julep cups! These were a gift from my Great Aunt Helen and I cherish them.

Hope you enjoyed the tour and will visit more tables at Between Naps on the Porch with our host Susan.

Telegram, Text and Twitter

2011-11-29T11:47:00.004-05:00

While watching Boardwalk on HBO last night, one of the main characters travelling in Ireland received a telegram that he should return home immediately, due to the illness of his child (well not really his child, but you don't want me to go into all that detail). At that same time, my daughter sent me a text that said "call me if you're not in bed yet".
It occurred to me while technology has certainly come leaps and bounds from the age of the telegram, our use of text and twitter is not really any different.
Important news and message communicated thru short bursts of information.
I'm all for ways to communicate, but some of the best nights I have are relaxing on the porch or in front of the fireplace just talking with Mr. B sans phones, laptops or technology.
Hope your week is off to a great start!

Living Room Transformation

2011-11-27T19:32:00.007-05:00

Thank you so much for all of your comments and suggestions

for table setup at our Thanksgiving.

I decided to rent three 60 inch round tables and 28 chairs to transform the living room into our dining room for the Thanksgiving day. As you can see below, it was all hands on deck for setup day Wednesday. Madison is, of course, in a supervising role.

We moved most of the furniture out of the living room and pushed back the remaining pieces to make as much floor space as possible.
With the linens pressed, silver polished and flowers arranged it was time for table setting.

More detail on Thursday of the table settings, which I hope will provide some inspiration for Christmas as well as your next Thanksgiving. I'm joining Susan at Between Naps on the Porch.

Thanksgiving Tables

2011-11-01T00:01:00.000-04:00

I'm going to host my in laws again this Thanksgiving and I have a question for ya'll I need feeback on so please comment!
We have a very large family. My husband has three brothers and a sister and they have 14 children. This Thanksgiving we total 28 -12 adults and 16 children attending. In years past the children were smaller and either didn't have a seated place or I set up small tables and chairs. Now many are in high school and our youngest neice is two. Do I do three tables of ten or a table of 12 for the adults and send all the kids down to our family room? Is a sit down meal really practical for almost 30 people? I will buffet set the food in our dining room either way as serving would be a nightmare.

Beeutiful Halloween

2011-10-31T14:45:00.001-04:00

Wishing you a safe and Happy Halloween! Graphics courtesy Graphics Fairy - Love her!

Fall Pleasures

2011-10-04T16:31:00.009-04:00

I believe fall has officially arrived here at Green Acres, even though it's still in the 80's each day.This is the view from my front porch in the evening.
Cooler evenings have made the dogs a lot more playful.

Are you a coffee drinker?
I have to have two cups in the morning.
I am loving this coffee blend from Target.

Pumpkin Pie Spice. It was on sale at my Target this week.

Hope things are becoming autumnal in your neck of the woods!

Blue and Gold

2011-09-28T21:36:00.027-04:00

Join me for some blue and gold hues of fall.
today I mixed my love of blue and white with the
golden hues of early fall

I used some amber glass as well as brown drip wear.

The mix ended up going nicely together.

I like to use my fish knife rests and my frog placecard holders

when I'm using my blue and white plates.

I thought the brown bowls ended the layering nicely.

Here's the layering break down:

First new chargers from One Kings Lane.

Then dinner plates from Meijer.

Then amber glass dinner plates from ebay.

Then blue and white antique plates from DH,

which are slightly smaller than the Meijer version.

Then Japanese plates (with matching small dishes) from ebay

I liked the golden touch in the center of the flower.

Then the brown dripware bowls on top from my Mom.

Some carpet balls from Christmas Tree Shops,

faux leaf garland and sugar fruit are in the center.

These spode napkin rings and salt & pepper were a gift from my Aunt.

I would use these dishes for butter pats, but I'm sure that's not their intended purpose.

A close up of the fruit purchased a dollar tree

and the wave edging of the compote

purchased at an antique store in Cadiz.

Napkins & placemats (same) -Ebay

Flatware -Target

Hope you enjoyed!

I'm joining Susan at Between Naps on the Porch.

Fall Buffet

2011-09-19T20:34:00.014-04:00

Since Friday is the first day of fall, I thought I'd spruce up the buffet.
I used my leaf runner as a base.

Anchored each end with blue urns.

Then added a few fall touches.

My new candy container found on ebay -love Mr. Squirrel

A few more pumpkins and my owl pitcher

Along with these Japanese plates.

Mr Squirrel will make it to a tabletop soon
I'm joining Susan at Between Naps on the Porch; Marty at A Stroll Thru Life;

Lenox Sale

2011-09-15T10:01:00.002-04:00

Wanted to share this unbelievable deal at Lenox.com I received via email today. If you are a collector of red or looking for a unique holiday gift this would be great for you.

Plum Crazy

2011-09-14T18:40:00.026-04:00

Thanks for joining me! This tablescape all started when this autumn arrangement arrived at my office yesterday.

No it's not my Birthday or Anniversary.

The card read "I'm plum crazy about you~thought these would make a beeutiful tablescape this week" Mr B. Yes he's a keeper. I had another table in mind, but postponed

that idea so I could creative the setting above for Mr. B to join me for a lovely dinner on the porch.

No time to go out and get anything I was "shopping" the house.
I tried to marry all the colors in the bouquet.
A silk pashmina from my sister for my last Birthday was the base.
And these mallard duck salt and peppers seem to fit in swimmingly.Green plates and glasses.
And green candles in the lanterns.
Here's the plum vase for which this post is named.
Lovely colors of purple, orange and green.
I love the paisely and plaid in the pattern (say that five times)
looks very early fall . . . beautiful detail with fringe at the bottom of the scarf.

Hope you enjoy your day!

I'm joining Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for Tablescape Thursday

and Cindy at Romantic Home for Show N Tell Friday.

Fall Florals

2011-08-31T15:47:00.004-04:00

These wedding bouquets were featured in Better Homes

and Gardens online. I always check out the wedding photos

I think they provide good ideas for centerpieces, tablescapes, color combinations, etc.

Above is a great example - placing a pin in the bouquet -

which would also look great in a centerpiece!

Love this ribbon color palette.
Roses and wild flowers make a great combination for early fall.

This one has a little of everything!

Trying to get my last summer tablescape done tonight after work.

We'll see if it happens - also packing - Miss B and I

are going on a mother daughter road trip

this week - destination Charleston, SC!!

Roosters and Roses

2011-08-17T19:51:00.018-04:00

After Shelia's recent rooster party I decided to get out my

rooster plates and use them.

We're in the tv room off the kitchen at my house,

but I'm officially calling it the breakfast room because it sounds nicer, we already have a tv room and Barb says it's okay.I found these after Janice posted about them on her blog about a year ago.

I really had fun playing with the layers of red.

Roses on the napkin and the plates. . .

Inspired a $9.99 purchase of these beauties at Kroger.

In my usual expert floral arranging method,

I plunked them in the vase.

This vase was given to my by my Mom last year.

It was purchased at the Brown Forman store

when my sister worked at Brown Forman years and years ago.

They had a store, much like a nice commisary

where employees could shop at cost for the products

that Brown Forman made.
Yes, we all got a lot of Lenox -yipee!

Yes I wish we'd gotten tons more - but I was like 20 and so there you go.

Buttons detail the sides of the quilted placemat.

I layered red rose napkins with a taupe color and used

my oak leaf porcelain napkin rings for a hint of fall.

Can't wait for fall!

Here's a picture of the plate, which is red

transferware and our everyday dishes.

Mr. Rooster looks pretty good :)

But I think the roses may steal the show.

Rooster plates - Kmart

Red transferware - QVC

Red Chargers- Hobby Lobby

Placemats and Napkin - Kmart

Napkin Ring - Vintage

Flatware & Glasses - Target

I'm joining Susan and Cindy for their parties - check out more great posts!

Horchow One Day Sale

2011-08-17T14:51:00.003-04:00

I wanted to share this email I received today from Horchow. You get 25-30% off on their website today only, plus you get free shipping on orders of $100 or more. Often you don't get to "double dip"on savings but with this offer you can!

Join me later tonight for a rooster and roses tablescape! Jennifer

Pineapple and Candle Urns

2011-08-16T19:38:00.011-04:00

I finally got the coffee table cleaned off and setup a little vignette.

From the pictures this looks like a whole lot of brown going on here, but the urns are really black. I promise it looks good.

The pineapple tray is my designated remote control spot. Do you lose your remote as much as we do~it's never where I remember putting it!

These urns are filled with a battery operated flameless candle.

I also added a pineapple bucket for the mail and a new Slatkin fall scent candle to our desk area.

I'm trying to have designated spots for things to cut down on the clutter.

I'm joining Tabletop Tuesday at A Stroll Thru Life.

Lenox Sale

2011-08-11T15:53:00.003-04:00

I received an email notice from Lenox today about their Thrilling Thursday deal. I think this would make a great Christmas gift for your postman; teachers; neighbors or that special someone to say a little thank you to for their help throughout the year. The sale ends 8/18 but I knew my blogging friends would be interested. They have some great dishes on sale too!

Click here for the link.

No I'm not being compensated from Lenox (I wish) I just wanted to pass along some savings to you :)

Sunflower Setting

2011-08-10T21:11:00.018-04:00

Won't you join me on the porch for a sunflower set table?

I'm so happy to be able to set the porch table and enjoy this cool weather.

This beautiful bouquet was picked up on the way home from work tonight by Mr. B -he's a keeper!

I think it goes so well with the sunflower temptations set.

Your place is set and ready for you to join me!

These black lanterns are so adorable with their little gates.

The serving dish is ready for the salad.

Each casserole comes with its own black iron carrier.

Green glasses match the green dinner plates.

This cream pitcher came from an estate sale at our

old neighborhood of a lady that was 100 when she

moved to a retirement community.

I hope you are enjoying cooler weather

where you are this week.

I'm joining Susan at Between Naps on the Porch.

Placemats from Ben Franklin Crafts.

Black Chargers from Hobby Lobby

Green Plates from Target - 15+ years ago

Sunflower Temptations set from QVC

Cream Linen Napkins - Ebay

Green Goblets - Arbys Christmas Giveaway years ago

Cream Flatware - Ebay

Crepe Myrtle Bloom

2011-08-09T17:25:00.009-04:00

Won't you join Madison and me as we finally get a break in the weather and can spend some time outside after work.
Thought I'd share with you this ginormous crepe Myrtle bush/tree we
have in the corner of our patio.
I took a picture of the grill next to it so you could an idea of the proportion.

If we don't keep tabs on it, which obviously we
didn't this season, it will grow and grow and grow.

But I do love the berries and blooms it produces.
Especially since a lot of the landscape is suffering right now.

Purple and green is such a nice combination.

Below is a long shot of a portion of the back yard from our driveway.

It's a little bit o'heaven :)

Hope you are enjoying your week.

I'm joining Outdoor Wednesday.

Late Summer Entry Table

2011-08-08T20:06:00.007-04:00

Well after two weeks of moving boxes and finalizing the store, I have finally been able to focus on my house and begin to spruce things up a bit.

Too early for fall decor I decided to use sunflowers to brighten up the entry table. I apologize for this light in the pictures. It was getting ready to rain and the light outside was very strange.

These two roosters are just what was needed next to the sunflower bouquet. Varied heights add for interest.

I love this guy because he has a bee on him.

And this one has a butterfly.

Today I'm joining Marty at Tabletop Tuesday & Shelia at Notesongs.

Change is Constant

2011-07-22T08:46:00.005-04:00

Wanted to keep my blog friends up to date with the store. After a lot of thought & prayer I have decided not to renew my lease at my current location. I did this prior to finding a new location so for awhile I will be closed. I am looking forward to visiting a lot more of your blogs each day and posting lots of things too!
This wonderful sign is by My Repurposed Life another great blogger from Louisville. Be sure to visit her blog and also Susan at Between Naps on the Porch.

Summer Porch Reading

2011-07-12T12:44:00.004-04:00

One of my favorite things to do is read out on the back porch in these white wicker chairs. We've had these chairs since we bought our first house over 18 years ago and they have served us well. Marbles enjoys sitting up high on the porch bird watching.

Recently I was able to catch up on a few of my magazines along with two of my favorite Starbucks items - black iced tea unsweetened and lemon pound cake.

This white wicker table was in our daughters nursery as a side table to the rocking chair - 22 years ago!

You can't beat sipping iced tea on a summer day :)

I'm joining Outdoor Wednesday; White Wednesday ; Show and Tell Friday & My Favorite Things.

Box Collection

2011-07-10T19:09:00.012-04:00

Now that the Fourth of July holiday has passed, I'm settling into decorating for that in between time of late summer & early fall.I thought a few vignettes of my collections would be a nice change of pace.

This corner table has always provided a nice base of decor.
Here I've displayed three of the boxes in my collection.

I liked the difference in height & material.

The square gold box with the hand painted

man on a horse was actually the box

that a leather wallet my parents gave my son from

Italy came in. Too beautiful to discard I added it to the collection.

Composed of paper the image of the horse and man

is hand painted onto the top.

This blue toile box is decoupage on wood.
The metal clasp, handle and feet are a weathered silver.

This porcelain box and dish is actually a cigarette box

and ash tray of my grandmothers.

I have often looked for more cigarette boxes, but

they seem to be hard to find.

I love the scallop detail and the roses on top.

I'm joining the following:

Metamorphosis Monday; Tabletop Tuesday & Three of More Tuesday.

Patriotic Mantle

2011-07-03T20:28:00.001-04:00

As we wrap up another Fourth of July I thought

I would share the mantle decorated in patriotic pride.
I used a combination of garland and paper lantern lights.

Two blue and white urns anchor each end of the mantle.

I hope you and yours have a safe & relaxing Fourth!

I'm joining Between Naps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday
& Tabletop Tuesday.

Patriotic Picnic Food

2011-06-30T15:22:00.009-04:00

The final post of our patriotic picnic week is of the food -which maybe the best part! I served club sandwiches, cape cod chips and lemonade.

Club Sandwiches are best served with the extra layer of bread in between. Also, I toast the bread and butter both the top and bottom. I find that the mayonnaise on the inside seeps in less if it's buttered first.

Layers of ham, turkey, colby cheese, tomato and bacon make this sandwich a yummy classic!
Here's the history of the club sandwich from wikipedia:

1894 - The most popular theory is that the sandwich first appeared in 1894 at the famous Saratoga Club-House (an exclusive gentlemen only gambling house in upstate Saratoga Springs, New York) where the potato chips was born. Originally called Morrissey's Club House, were neither women nor locals were permitted in the gambling rooms. In 1894, Richard Canfield purchased the clubI served this awesome lemonade I found recently. Sweet Leaf Lemonade is made in Austin, Texas and also makes a variety of Sweet Iced Teas.

I try to always use Boar's Head sandwich meat. They are a little more expensive than some other deli meats, but they taste so good!

Finally, Cape Cod potato chips seemed like a classic to add to this patriotic picnic. Crisp, crunchy salty and all natural, these potato chips are all American!

I'm joining Designs by Gollum for Foodie Friday and hope you will too!

Patriotic Picnic

2011-06-29T14:39:00.024-04:00

Join us for a patriotic picnic in the park today! Monday I showed you some vintage clipart that I used to make menu and placecards for today's picnic here.

I simply hand wrote the menu on the back of red cards to keep it simple and casual. I used small American flags at each place setting along with blue and white "picnic" napkins.

Here the lemonade bottle is holding down the placecards. You also see the detail of the vintage picnic tablecloth I used to cover the table.

Various patriotic sugar cookies lined the center of the table for decoration and dessert.

Here is the front of the menu card.

A long shot of the table - which was dark because it was under a covered picnic area - but a lot cooler in the shade.

We had a nice view of the lake while we ate, including some local feathered friends.

This bird was spotted while we dined but flew away as soon as we got close to her. Looks like she was borrowing some of the feathers from her friends for her nest!

On the drive out of the 440 acre park we spotted these adorable ducks lined up sunning themselves~aren't they cute! I'm joining Tablescape Thursday with Susan at Between Naps on the Porch.

Long Run Park

2011-06-28T19:46:00.009-04:00

The site for tomorrow's picnic will be Long Run Park in Louisville, KY. Maintained by the City of Louisville, Long Run is one of 122 parks covering more than 12.000 acres in the city. Long Run is 416 acres and offers an 18 hole golf course, 28 acre lake, horse back riding trails, tennis courts, playground, picnic shelters and grills.

My husband and I began visiting Long Run years ago when we lived in the city and wanted to take our children out to the country to play. In the far east end of Louisville, Long Run has a rural feel with its expansive rolling fields. Even after moving out into the country ourselves, my husband and I still have lunch at the park for a get away from the office occasionally.

Picnic tables are located by the lake and with the shade of plenty of trees it will be a lovely spot for a picnic.

Today I am joining Outdoor Wednesday at A Southern Daydreamer.

Vintage Fourth Clip Art

2011-06-27T08:22:00.007-04:00

It is possible to have an inexpensive yet festive party for Fourth of July. This week I'll show you how to plan a perfect patriotic picnic for next weekend's holiday. Today I'm sharing a few vintage clipart pictures I'm using later this week for a patriotic picnic.

I've saved these in a Word file and will be printing them on a sheet of white heavy card stock paper and a sheet of Avery labels.

I can't wait to show you all my creations for a patriotic picnic! Today I'm joining Metamorphosis Monday at Between Naps on the Porch.
Upcoming Posts:

Wednesday: Parks to Picnic - Outdoor Wednesday

Thursday: Patriotic Picnic - Tablescape Thursday

Friday: Perfect picnic sandwich - Foodie Friday

Feature Friday Liquid Soaps

2011-06-24T09:12:00.009-04:00

For today's Feature Friday - we are offering Mary Lake Thompson liquid soaps buy one get one 50% off!The Lavender Soap is my current favorite for it's scent and I love the lavender color!
These make cute additions to your kitchen, laundry room or guest powder room & of course your master bath!
If you are so lucky to have a garden area where you prep cut flowers, Miss Bunny would be an adorable accent.

I love the rooster for the kitchen. I know so many of you have red kitchens -what a great perk up accent!

We even carry soaps for the lake house.

Hope you can stop by today or tomorrow and pickup a few soaps.
Have a wonderful weekend :)

Red, White and BBQ

2011-06-22T20:37:00.009-04:00

As today if the first official day of summer, I know many of you if you have not already, will be grilling out more and more.

This table features all things good with a BBQ. Picnic check plates and a vintage picnic check table cloth with white fringe trim make a great base for hamburger and hot dog salt and peppers.

Watermelon salt and peppers along with adorable watermelon accent plates say a summery hello to your table.

I feel in love with this condiment holder that looks like a mini-grill but is actually salt and pepper shakers. There is also a place for ketchup, mustard and your pickles fit in the little tray that is the "grill". Also you can see just the top of the basket of foodie ornaments featuring pizza, hamburgers and hot dogs. I used some of these as napkin rings.

A few essentials for dining outdoors - a food cover and tablecloth weights, these are in the shape of daisies.

Hope you enjoyed this taste of summer ~ I'm joining Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for Tablescape Thursday. Please visit there for more wonderful tables!

My Father's Daughter Giveaway Winner & Tassel House Giveaway

2011-06-22T16:40:00.006-04:00

We have two winners of the book give away - but I have to keep you in suspense one more day b/c I left the names at the store! Wanted to let you know as well that Susan is giving away a tassel from The Tassel House at her site Between Naps on the Porch. These tassels are wonderful!

I've shared a few pictures below but you need to checkout Susan's site as well as the etsy store for more great tassels.

I think the rooster is my favorite, but I love the bird too!

Hope you having a great day -we made it 1/2 way through the week! I'll be back tonight to share a red, white and bbq table.

Everyday is a new day blooming with joy

2011-06-21T19:09:00.006-04:00

I've been enjoying my hibiscus in the backyard so much this year I thought I would share it with you'll today.

The joy that the hibiscus plant brings me is that each day there is a new flower ready to burst into bloom. On this day there were several fully bloomed flowers on display.

This plant always reminds me that no matter what the day brings -another beautiful day is waiting to come forth and share it's glory. I hope you are having a wonderful day - thanks for coming by to visit. Please visit A Southern Daydreamer for Outdoor Wednesday. Jennifer

Red, White & Blue Toile China Cabinet

2011-06-19T19:35:00.010-04:00

Every few months of so I like to change things up in the China Cabinet. Previously I had backed it with red & white toile wallpaper leftovers from the downstairs bathroom. You can see that post here. For summertime I displayed some red, white and blue dishes, including these adorable frog placecard holders.

And their friends the larger froggy salt and pepper shakers! I love the pop of this red rooster platter in the back of the cabinet.

Inside this red and white polka dot casserole dish I placed blue and white carpet balls of assorted patterns.

And finally several sets of blue and white casserole dishes and a blue vase with red toile accent on the front.

On the fold down portion of the cabinet sits blue and white tiles, which can be used for coasters and a friendly patriotic bear. Check around your house and I'll bet you already have the makings of your own red, white and blue display. Thanks for coming by to visit me today. I'm joining the following blogs: Metamorphosis Monday; Tabletop Tuesday & Ruby Tuesday.

Feature Friday - Platters & Trays

2011-06-17T15:36:00.007-04:00

For this Feature Friday all platters are on sale 25%. Just a few are shown below, but there's more at the store so come on by for a visit! Also, tomorrow is our tent sale with 25-50% all items in the tent.

Also, don't forget tomorrow is the last day to enter the book giveaway ~ an autographed copy of Gwyneth Paltrow's My Father's Daughter!

Beeutiful Table

2011-06-16T19:12:00.009-04:00

When I leased the lobby space at the Head House I knew I wanted to put a round table there and share some of my most favorite tablescapes. Honeycomb depression glass bowls, vintage sugar and creamer and cut glass goblets were a must for the table.

A began with bees of course, since that's the "mascot" if you will of Beeutiful by Design. These wonderful bee hive towels and bee towels by Mary Lake Thompson and bee and teapot napkins were the perfect additions.

I layered yellow terra cotta rimmed plates, on purple round placemats on a black and white toile tablecloth. I like the punch of purple between the yellow and black & white.

Now as you reach the 2nd floor of Head House a cherry table is waiting to greet you!

I'm joining Tablescape Thursday at Between Naps on the Porch!

Be sure to make a comment on every post this week for a chance at an autographed copy of Gwyneth Paltrow's newest cookbook "My Father's Daughter". See more details here.

Nautical Display

2011-06-12T19:49:00.010-04:00

I went nautical for some of the new lobby space at the store and thought I would share a few more of the details. The tree is partially decorated, waiting for my neighbors to move into their new space and then I will put out the rest of the ornaments.

Aren't these anchors cute! I think they would make great napkin rings and tassels too.

Here's the table with the nautical items. I think the blue and white gingham tablecloth makes a great backdrop.

Adorable large, medium and small lanterns along side the table. Notice the floors of the Head House, sigh, they don't make hardwood like this anymore, so I left it with no rug at all!

Lighthouse and Sailboat food covers to protect your outdoor dining from visitors joining your party.

Isn't this accent table and lamp adorable!

Finally a few Mary Lake Thompson towels with seaside accents.

I'm joining Tabletop Tuesday at A Stroll Thru Life and don't forget there is still time to enter by leaving a comment each post this week for the giveaway Saturday of Gwyneth Paltrow's new cookbook!

Nautical Lobby for Summer

2011-06-12T19:34:00.013-04:00

When I was able to lease the 2nd floor lobby space of Head House I knew I wanted to brighten it up with summery fun so I chose mostly nautical colors and themes.
A changing table was converted to the Fourth of July display including a white 4th themed tree!

This lovely bench was added at the top of the stairs to provide a wonderful place to display pillows, added storage inside and a nice resting spot for guests (and their DH) while shopping.

I added a nautical theme tree to the corner, which you can see as you climb the staircase up to the second floor. I will share more detail of the tree with you once it's decor is finished.

This table focuses on all the joy of summertime!

A fresh batch of Mary Lake towels has arrived with sail boats, light houses and all American themes!

I will share more detail of the nautical tabletop tomorrow when I join Tabletop Tuesday.
Also, I was able to add one small round table in the corner space of the lobby and will share that tablescape with you on Thursday.
Be sure to enter to win my giveaway for a signed copy of Gwyneth Paltrow's new cookbook "My Father's Daughter"
I'm joining Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday and hope you will too!

Giveaway - My Father's Daughter

2011-06-10T18:42:00.004-04:00

Recently I was lucky enough to purchase several signed copies of Gwyneth Paltrow's newest book "My Father's Daughter". I will be giving away two copies of this book. This will be a perfect gift for Father's Day or addition to your collection of cookbooks! There are several ways to enter: post a comment to this and/or any blog post this week (June 10-18); sign up to follow this blog; friend the store on Facebook and register in person at the store. The contest will end June 18th at 4:00pm when I draw the lucky two winners! Good luck! Hope you have a great weekend~ Jennifer

Here we grow again!

2011-06-05T21:18:00.008-04:00

As the one year anniversary of Beeutiful by Design's location at Head House approaches - we are growing again and leasing the lobby space of the second floor!
These are some pictures of the lobby - after the current tenant moved on Saturday and before I moved in.

The lobby is quite spacious and is the first thing you see when you arrive at the second floor of Head House.

Beautiful old hard wood floors, crown molding details and a wide chair rail make it the perfect background for merchandise.

Can't wait to share the after with you next week!

I'm joining Between Naps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday.

Memorial Day Flags for Vets

2011-05-30T16:34:00.018-04:00

I hope you are enjoying your Memorial Day weekend. This year my husband and son went down to the waterfront in Louisville and guarded the 30,000 flags placed there by the flags4vets program.

Flags 4 Vets is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising money for flags to be placed on the graves of US Veterans.

The mascot for the Flags 4 Vets program is Black Jack, the rider-less horse that followed the caisson carrying the casket of John Fitzgerald Kennedy in his funeral procession to Arlington Cemetery in November, 1963. During his 29 years of service Black Jack participated in the state funerals of JFK, Herbert Hoover, Lyndon Johnson and Five-Star General Douglas MacArthur and he escorted hundreds of our military to their final resting places.

Black Jack ended his dedicated and dignified military career on February 6, 1976 and was buried on the parade ground at Fort Myer's.
Black Jack seemed destined for greatness from birth, but never did take well to being ridden and threw rider after rider, leaving them sitting in the dust while he bucked riotously around the training corral.

Although fiery and difficult to manage, he was so sleek and beautiful that the army sent him to the caisson platoon at Arlington. Because of Black Jack's spirited temperament, the army was reluctant to use him in military funerals at Arlington, but one they tried him Black Jack's grace and vitality soon made him a favorite as the riderless horse that follows the caisson to the grave.

Black Jack was on display at the Memorial event.

My husband and son worked the 9 pm to 9 am shift.

Tents, food and drinks were provide for volunteers.

Ben was tired after about 3 am!

Coming over the interstate the flags were a wonderful impression and dedication to the soldiers that have paid the ultimate price for our country.

I'm joining Metamorphosis Monday at Between Naps on the Porch.

Shake Rattle and Roll Memorial Day

2011-05-26T20:03:00.010-04:00

It's shake rattle and roll for this Memorial Day Feature Friday

where salt and pepper shakers are buy one set and get one 50% off! Honey comb bees are adorable $15.00
Lovely lady bugs - $12.00

Patriotic perfect for Memorial Day and Fourth of July - $12.00

Sweet country chickens $15.00

Strawberry's are berry sweet at $10

And finally who could have summer with out watermelon - $10.00

Please come by and visit the store this weekend we are having

a fabulous tent sale Friday and Saturday 11-4

or call to place your order at 502.384.4323 :)

A Victorian Garden

2011-05-25T20:45:00.009-04:00

Monday I posted about moss inspired themes here. This table was inspired by a Victorian garden theme with moss decor accents.

I used moss covered terra cotta balls in the center

along with an ivy topiary.

A woven charger, green plate set the base along with a vintage embellished napkin nested in a porcelain butterfly napkin ring.
A vintage glass coaster is ready for your iced tea glass and a moss
topiary place card holder marks your spot.
I'm joining Between Naps on the Porch for Tablescape Thursday.

Moss Metamorphosis

2011-05-22T21:49:00.010-04:00

Lately I've seen so much moss decorating common objects I was inspired!First I came across this photo from the Philadelphia Flower show on

the great site The Display Lab, which features retail displays.
Then I was reading Martha Stewart's blog last week and
she featured a equine themed party with a moss covered horse.

What creative, wonderful work of art!

Finally I was reading spiral style blog from a recent trip to Paris and saw this

moss covered bicycle.

Even Susan at Between Naps on a Porch had a moss covered tablecloth last year

on her Tablescape Thursday meme.

Stay tuned to see my moss inspired tablescape later this week.

I'm joining Susan at Metamorphosis Monday.

Napkin Rings for Feature Friday

2011-05-19T19:16:00.020-04:00

I'm starting a new promotion at the store this week, Feature Friday.

Every Friday I will feature an item I think is an entertaining essential.

And for each sale, you can get a second equal or lessor of the same item

for 50% off!

This week's feature is napkin rings. I posted some of the selection we have at the store.

Not close by to Head House -don't worry you can inquire via comment, email or call

the store at 502.384.4323.

Buy one adorable porcelain puppy and get the next 1/2 off!
Feature Friday will run every Friday to Saturday
at the store.

Napkin rings make a great hostess, teacher or friend gift. But hurry items are usually one of kind

and therefore will sell quickly!

These fast food ornaments will look great

as napkin rings at your next barbeque or pizza night!

A napkin ring can be the finishing touch for your table . . .

Or perk up a boring placesetting . . .

"The napkin ring, sometimes called serviette ring, was originally used to identify the napkins of a household between weekly wash days. The standard napkin ring is a simple ring made from skewers. The figural napkin ring is an American specialty in which the simple napkin ring is part of a small figure or sculpture that may take any shape and show any motive. Napkin rings appear as single items with the name or initials of the owner, notably given as christening presents, or pairs often given as gifts at weddings and silver weddings. In the English speaking countries, numbered sets of 4, 6, 8, 10 or 12 napkin rings are found. Napkin rings are an invention of the European bourgeoisie, first appearing in France about 1800 and soon spreading to all countries in the western world. Most 19th century napkin rings were made of silver or silver plate, but others were made in bone, wood, pearl embroidery, porcelain, glass, and other materials. In the 20th century bakelite and other new materials were used." from Wikipedia

Heavy brass pineapples say welcome . . .

These beautiful (or should I say Beeutiful) beaded rings look so summery!

Farmers Market Ceramics

2011-05-15T12:31:00.013-04:00

Do you shop at your local farmers market?

Having a fresh supply of local fruits and vegetables is so important to a healthy community.

If you don't know where a market is close by check here for a listing.

This season I thought I would setup a Farmers Market tabletop display.
Feast your eyes on lovely lemons, carrots, lettuce and peppers.

Juicy strawberry, watermelon and limes await your first bite!

This is a terrific cabbage chip in dip!

A vegetable medley runner

I love these ceramic beverage servers. They keep drinks cool for summer time.

Available in yellow and orange!

This flour sack towel set of two ($16) is perfect for your summer kitchen.

Call the store for more information about item availability and pricing

(502) 384-4323

I'm joining Met Monday to share this changing tabletop display!

Decorator Ideas from America's Showhouses

2011-05-14T09:51:00.006-04:00

One of my favorite things is to tour show houses.

The talent America's designers display year after year is amazing!
The images on this post are from a home in the Hamptons.

I hope you visit Traditional Home for more homes featured.

I've been lucky to visit many show houses in recent years and they

always provide an abundance of inspiration!

I'm joining My Favorite Things at Bargain Hunting with Laurie.

Gourd Festival

2011-05-11T14:53:00.000-04:00

This Saturday I will be a vendor at the Arts and Crafts Show on Main Street in Taylorsville, KY in conjunction with the 2011 Kentucky Gourd Festival. If you are in the area I highly recommend coming over to visit us on Main Street and then traveling up to the school campus to see the gourd artists. They perform truly creative works of art from gourds. For more information about the Gourd Show visit their website here.

I'm joining Outdoor Wednesday.

Derby Week II

2011-05-03T21:40:00.009-04:00

These two horse bit pillows were the base of my

non-traditional Derby tablescape.

I love the neutral colors of brown, gray and black together.

Adding to that a vintage Derby plate in gold and white.

And horse towels from Ms. Mary Lake Thompson!

Round out our 2nd Derby theme table.

I'm joining A Stroll Thru Life for Tabletop Tuesday (late).

Derby Week

2011-05-01T20:51:00.003-04:00

Yesterday marked the official kick off to Derby

week here in Louisville. I am showing you a few of the

vignette changes I setup for this year's Derby.

Today features primary colors

of jockey elements that are so popular.

Jockey helmets would make great centerpieces
for your derby tables.
Tomorrow will feature a few pictures of the black
and white tablescape setting for Derby.
I'm joining Met Monday at Between Naps on the Porch!

Gazebo Dreaming

2011-04-27T06:21:00.014-04:00

As the weather warms, I dream of all the possibilities

for our property -do you? One of these would be

a gazebo. I dream of days dining al fresco in my gazebo.
Think of the tablescapes!

Or a smaller gazebo as a focal point in the yard.

Summer days lounging in the gazebo with iced tea . . .

Or reading a favorite novel . . .

The beautiful landscape surrounding me

The sound of waves in the background

(never mind that I live in KY)

In my beautiful summer white gown . . .

Okay maybe all the rain has made me delirious

but a gazebo would be a wonderful addition

and the beginning of the season

always holds infinite inspiration.
Images bhg.com

I'm joining Outdoor Wednesday.

Easter Treat Bags

2011-04-22T12:43:00.010-04:00

I made these Easter treat bags with two of my favorite

things - jelly beans and vintage clip art.
First, I stuffed these polka dot clear plastic
bags with a few handfuls of jelly beans.

Then I filled these yellow paper sacks with the

jelly bean bags, folded over the top and hole

punched the center.

Finally, I tied off the tag with different color spool ribbon.
I'm joining Show and Tell & My Favorite Things.

Hope you and your family have a wonderful Easter!

Creative Containers II

2011-04-18T21:51:00.006-04:00

Tonight I thought I would share a few

arrangements in containers at the store.

These are all artificial of course, but you get the idea. A simple water can would be a great display.

Or how about tulips in a bowl. I used a depression glass

yellow bowl for these yellow tulips.

Hopefully you have a few new ideas of what to

use on your table top this Easter.

I'm joining Tabletop Tuesday

at A Stroll Thru Life.

Creative Easter Containers

2011-04-17T13:21:00.009-04:00

For this week I thought I would share some photos of Easter centerpieces

to help give you ideas if you don't already home something in mind. For our cloche fans, the above is an adorable combination of things. I like the hat filled with place card eggs, particularly for an outside celebration.

White flowers on clear glass cake plates is stunning and simple. I like the way the flowers are used as nests for the eggs.

Tea any one? Wouldn't this be cute at each place setting or along a line at the buffet?

Finally, the simplicity of carry out containers filled makes an easy, inexpensive idea.

Tomorrow some ideas of my own containers from the store.

I'm joining Metamorphosis Monday at Between Naps on the Porch.

Historic Home Tag Sale

2011-04-01T05:24:00.012-04:00

This Saturday Beeutiful by Design will be at the

Nunnlea House for their annual Antique, Craft and Tag Sale. Built in the 1850's, the home and outbuildings are on the

National Register of Historic Places. The park like setting and gracious gardens are a perfect place for weddings, events and parties.

Nunnlea contains beautiful crystal chandeliers and a marble fireplace with the original mantle in every room. 141/2 foot ceilings, tall windows and floors of herringbone patterned oak add to the elegance.

I was lucky enough to secure a space inside the home for the sale.

I'm really looking forward to seeing the home and grounds.

All photos are from the Nunnlea House website.

I'm joining Show N Tell and My Favorite Things.

Book Giveaway Winner

2011-03-29T14:41:00.006-04:00

We have a winner for Tim Laird's "That's Entertaining" book and it is Bonnie Bee!

Thanks for entering and be looking for more giveaways in upcoming weeks - or should I say bee looking :)

Cherry Blossom Festival

2011-03-23T13:22:00.005-04:00

As we continue to pray for the people of Japan, this Saturday

marks the beginning of the Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, DC.

If you have ever been lucky enough to be there during

peak blossom time, it is enchanting.

History of the Cherry Blossom Trees and Festival
Each year, the National Cherry Blossom Festival commemorates the 1912 gift of 3,000 cherry trees from Mayor Yukio Ozaki of Tokyo to the city of Washington, DC. The gift and annual celebration honor the lasting friendship between the United States and Japan and the continued close relationship between the two countries.
In a simple ceremony on March 27, 1912, First Lady Helen Herron Taft and Viscountess Chinda, wife of the Japanese ambassador, planted the first two trees from Japan on the north bank of the Tidal Basin in West Potomac Park. Between the governments of the two countries, the financial backing of Dr. Jokichi Takamine, a world-famous chemist and the founder of what today is the global pharmaceutical company Daiichi Sankyo, Dr. David Fairchild of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Eliza Scidmore, first female board member of the National Geographic Society, and First Lady Helen Herron Taft, the trees arrived in Washington.
A first batch of 2,000 trees arrived diseased in 1910, but did not deter the parties. Just two years later in 1912, new trees arrived and were planted. These are the trees that now turn the Tidal Basin into a cloud of pink each spring for all to enjoy.
In 1915, the United States Government reciprocated with a gift of flowering dogwood trees to the people of Japan. A group of American school children reenacted the initial planting in 1927 and the first “festival” was held in 1935, sponsored by civic groups in the nation’s capital.
First Lady Lady Bird Johnson accepted 3,800 more trees in 1965. In 1981, the cycle of giving came full circle. Japanese horticulturists were given cuttings from the trees to replace some cherry trees in Japan which had been destroyed in a flood.
The Festival was expanded to two weeks in 1994 to accommodate a diverse activity schedule during the blooming period. Today, more than a million people visit Washington, DC each year to admire the blossoming cherry trees and attend events that herald the beginning of spring in the nation’s capital.
The above information was taken from
http://www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/

I'm joining Outdoor Wednesday.

Don't forget to enter my giveaway~information here.

Teal and Green for Spring

2011-03-20T18:19:00.009-04:00

Today I thought I would share a new display

of Teal and Green.

I'm in love with these two baskets lined with paisley print.

They also have plastic liners so you can use them as planters,

but I think they'd make an adorable pocket book for summer too.

Mr Bunny wants me to remind you to be sure to enter

the giveaway for Tim Laird's "That's Entertaining!" book.

Click here for more information.

I'm joining Table Top Tuesday at A Stroll Thru Life.

Man Cave Update

2011-03-20T18:02:00.011-04:00

I first posted about the man cave renovations here back in September.

These are some before shots of that post.

Boy has it been a loong winter with out my heated two car garage!

The warm weather must be here to stay because

the man cave is nearing completion.

You can see from the photos that all the walls on the previous

"kitchen" side have been re-drywalled and painted.

The cabinets have been removed, sanded, painted
and rehung on the opposing wall.

A shelf unit was installed along with a black storage cabinet.

Hooks hung for the many shovels, racks, etc.

Still to do: the flooring, work sink and parking side dry wall.

I'm joining Met Monday.

Also, be sure to enter my give away for a

signed copy of "That's Entertaining!" by Tim Laird.

For more information click here.

"That's Entertaining!" Book Signing

2011-03-19T20:58:00.005-04:00

I'm very excited to announce

this coming Saturday, March 26th noon-2:00PM

Tim Laird, Chief Entertaining Officer (CEO)

of Brown Forman will be at Beeutiful by Design to meet and sign copies

of his new book "That's Entertaining!".

Tim Laird is an authority on wines and spirits with more than 20 years experience in the hospitality industry. A connoisseur of fine wines, spirits, and champagnes, Tim is also a gourmet chef and a master at entertaining and execution. Tim is a veteran of television and radio having appeared on both approximately 100 times in the past year including: The Tonight Show, CNN, FOX News Network, Fox & Friends, The Today Show, CBS Early Show and CNBC. Tim also hosts Secrets of Bluegrass Chefs and Secrets of Louisville Chefs Live, a weekly TV show shown in the Kentucky region.

I understand many of my blogging friends do not live

near the Louisville, KY area.

However, do not worry, I remembered you too!

I am giving away one copy of Mr. Laird's book "That's Entertaining!"

To enter, simply comment to this or any other posts this week

as we lead up to Saturday.

If you comment to more than one post,

you will be entered more than one time.

In addition, if you contact me at jhta1@aol.com I can ship you

a signed copy for $35, plus shipping costs.

This would make a lovely birthday, mother's day or

early Christmas gift!

Miss Madison's New Accessories

2011-03-16T12:56:00.005-04:00

Miss Madison, weary from Winter and looking forward to Spring

expressed a need for a new accessories.

(Yes my kids think I'm crazy)
While on One Kings Lane today I saw these adorable
sets under Harry Barker.
Miss Madison will be so fashionable in her pink and green!

Below is more information about this company:
" Packed with preppie style, Harry Barker's fun, eco-friendly doggie beds, pet dishes and kibble canisters are as warm and unique as the woman who created them. Carol Perkins, an ex-model and fire-eater for Penn & Teller on Broadway, began creating dog beds, toys and robes for friends, at her kitchen table. Her creations were an instant hit, and Harry Barker—named after her Super-Sheltie—came to be. "

They had some super cute stuff!
I'm joining Outdoor Wednesday at
A Southern Daydreamer

Touches of Green

2011-03-15T08:50:00.008-04:00

Thought I would post a few ideas I've gathered for my

St. Patrick's Day tablescape.

The picture above is from Martha Stewart online

and is a cute way to use those carnations found

in your grocers floral department this week.
Above is another easy example of a centerpiece.

How about some parsley arranged with this cute lamb?

Or some green peppers fashioned as clover-so cute!

Finally green apples are usually inexpensive and you

can eat them on Friday!
Hope this gave you some ideas for your

St. Patty's Day table.

I'm joining Tabletop Tuesday.
(photos from MSLO & Better Homes and Gardens)

Spring Green

2011-03-06T20:47:00.010-05:00

Come with me as we take a short tour of this

spring table.
Here's a long shot from the corner of the shop.
The vintage fringed table cloth has apples in the design.

A bird's eye view shows the treats that await.

"When I County My Blessings, I Count You Twice"

says the heart-shaped plate, which applies to all of you!

I always try to carry a few cutting boards.

I think they make great gifts.

We could all use a fresh board on our counter top.

Lots of winged creatures join our green table.

And a few herb towels.

Lettuce accent plates

And vintage hand embroidered tea towels.
Hope Spring is bringing green to your home this week!

I'm joining Between Naps on the Porch

and

Tabletop Tuesday.

Rooster Red Toile

2011-02-13T22:23:00.011-05:00

As part of my continuing transformation

at the store, I re-did the back of the china cabinet in red toile paper.
As a nice accent to the paper, I selected roosters
as the theme for the display.

This cheery sunflower platter will brighten your day!

Mixing in yellow as the pop of color was perfect.

A little bee's and strawberry napkins.

I even tucked in accents

in the side shelves.

I'm joining Metamorphosis Monday, Tabletop Tuesday &

Ruby Tuesday.

Feathering Your Nest

2011-02-07T16:48:00.007-05:00

Here's a few items to feather your nest in the dull drums of winter.
I love the winter white candle opera with the eggs as
the pre-note to spring!

Linen cocktail napkins, a mosaic hummingbird feeder and drip

wear bowls make a nice combination.

I love these light blue salad plates.

They have a hint of chocolate brown in the background.

I thought all these items complimented the

nest and blue jay towels.

A blue toile tote and garden gate ornaments combine

with metal spheres and an antique hook.
I'm joining Tabletop Tuesday; White Wednesday; and Tablescape Thursday.

Spectator Spectacular

2011-01-31T17:57:00.012-05:00

Ever since I opened the store, I've used black and white

as a color template for some sort of display.

It just seems to be season less and neutral.

I love these seafood forks I just got in - not for seafood,

but rather to serve appetizers, olives and other "bits" on platters.

This cookie jar would make a great

business card holder

for your desk.
Also, see the napkin ring at the bottom left of the picture?

These are new and are adorable kitties!

A black and white fabric lined basket filled with flowers.

Even your day to day correspondence can add a flair

with these black and white pens.

This wine rack seemed open and empty so

I filled it with small black & white gift bags.

And miniature teapot place card holders from Crane.

I added a few serving pieces in basket weave,

which would make great "go to" pieces for your next buffet.

I'm joining Tabletop Tuesday & White Wednesday

and hope you will visit them too!

Sunny Yellow

2011-01-23T20:01:00.009-05:00

As I continue to transform the shop over from Christmas to spring, I turn to an old faithful transition, citrus. I think it is the sunny yellows that perk us up in dull drums of winter time.
Along with the fact that citrus (fresh) is in season.

These lemon napkin rings would perk up any table!

I really like the white with yellow for a clean, crisp color palette.

Lemon towels finish off the new display!

I'm joining two of my favorite ladies this week for

Metamorphosis Monday

Tabletop Tuesday

Winter Blues

2011-01-19T03:11:00.013-05:00

Between the blue birds outside my window and the blue decor inside the store, I definitely feel the winter blues lately.

I'm inspired by the blue and white dishes with oranges on these new Mary Lake Thompson towels to create a blue & white with orange table display.

I think the shot of orange perks up this table.

Just got in a set of blue and white plates and dipping saucers.

These vintage frog placecard holders are adorable!

I'm also loving the yellow cocktail napkins.

But the real show stopper is the towels.

I hope you'll stop by the store for a visit soon!

I'm linking to the following parties:

Metamorphosis Monday

Tabletop Tuesday

Welcome 2011!

2011-01-04T20:42:00.002-05:00

Well, it's been awhile since I've done any blogging and I miss it dearly :)
Between the store and working full time, I just got out of the habit of my posts. I have resolved that blogging is a good habit to keep, as well as exercising and eating right, it keeps me "on track" with what's good for me, my store, and my very disorganized life.

So my resolution (one of many) is to post more often, comment on your lovely blogs more and generally try to stay on track :) Here's hoping!

Holiday Open House

2010-11-14T16:37:00.014-05:00

This weekend proved to be very busy with the Holiday Open House

at the store, a Holiday Bazaar at a local church and the

Marine Corps Ball last night.

Thought I'd share some over view pictures

of the store dressed for Christmas

with details of each table to come in future posts.

This has got to be my favorite table top

display this year featuring gold and silver.

Against that huge mirror it really sparkles!

The theme above is kittens and mittens, which

seems to be a favorite for children.

Refreshments and a door prize were offered.

Mad about plaid was when you first walked in the door.

Featuring plaid votive and accent plates.

And red door ornaments.

The back table is feathers and fauna with cardinals,

amaryllis and poinsettias.

Love the red and green!

My Mary Lake Thompson towels are beeutiful :)

I hope you enjoyed your weekend!

Thanks for stopping by to visit today.

I am joining Metamorphosis Monday

and Tabletop Tuesday.

Chocolate Chip French Toast

2010-10-29T10:23:00.000-04:00

Do you find that you eat more breakfast for dinner when the weather gets cooler? I know we do. My husband used to hate it when I'd cook breakfast for dinner, but he's come around to it. I think it's yummy - and who has time to cook breakfast when you leave at 7 AM?

The other day I made french toast. I mix eggs with a splash of orange juice and a shake of cinnamon. If I have vanilla extract I put a bit of that in as well. Dip my whole wheat bread in the egg mixture and cook

up in a non-stick skillet.

This time I added chocolate chips and powdered sugar to dress it up.
Add Maple Syrup from Whole Foods and you're ready to enjoy!

I'm joining Foodie Friday with Designs by Gollum.

Fall Entry Table

2010-10-17T20:11:00.012-04:00

I've had a not so great weekend :( First I got a cold, which prohibited me from going to see our daughter up at law school and enjoy a wonderful meal at Jeff Ruby's steakhouse (which I had saved coupons $ for a month); Second my camera broke and all us bloggers know how terrible a fate this is - a blogger with out a camera is, well not going to be a very good blogger! Finally, while attempting to take pictures of my entry hall with my phone and then figure out how to send them to my email address and download them to my computer - I burned my dinner - chili - which was going to be perfect on a cool autumn evening.

Not to be curtailed, I downloaded a few inspirational photos from the web and a few of pictures that actually came through to my email for us to view.

Isn't this picture from country living magazine adorable! See the chickens under the hall table - I think it adds so much to the quaintness factor (is that a word?) of the room.

Blue and white from Southern Accents - adore!

A table cloth with a lamp and great chair from House Beautiful.

And a mirrored effect from Traditional Home.

Here's my chickens -again sorry for the pictures.

With my pumpkin wreath and leaf votive candle.

Wishing you a wonderful week - I'm off to

view more posts at Between Naps on the Porch

and

A Stroll Thru Life.

Halloween Spooktacular

2010-09-25T11:27:00.010-04:00

Things are spooktacular here at the shop.

All Halloween is 50% off!

I thought I would share a few pictures
of what we have to offer for your
Halloween decor this year.

Love these vintage looking boxes!

A plate of sparkle skull heads :)

The spider chip and dip is a favorite -

his tummy is the dip bowl.

I did a little Halloween tree with sucker covers,

Halloween words and spider ornaments.

Several Mary Lake Thompson towels have

already been grabbed up - but there are a few left.

These mixing bowls on spider stands are adorable ~

just right for candy or other treats.
Are you ready for Tricks and Treats?

Man Cave

2010-09-19T17:16:00.016-04:00

It seems so long since we've last talked! I've been busy with the store, starting back to work full time and the general chaos of life.

I'm glad to see you visit today :)
We're under construction in the garage.
I hate construction but love the results.

We have a two car garage on one side and then on the other is a 2nd kitchen the previous owners built for the wife's canning and gardening.
I know dreamy right? I pictured myself hosting parties and using

this as the catering kitchen, gardening and making fabulous

flower arrangements, etc.

But, it was not to be, those parties never happened and my gardening

has been pretty limited since we moved here seven years ago.

You can see what has sprouted in here though - a few dirt bikes -

Lots of tools - a guy fridge full of drinks -

Ladders, tents, camping equipment, etc.

Do you smell testosterone?

And so it was goodbye June Cleaver kitchen

oven - we will never meet again!

Even though your "dashboard" looks like a retro dream.

And your coca-cola sink was super keen.

Sink not so much.

This is what is laying in my driveway now, a pile

of Martha Stewart dreams gave way to a man cave nightmare.

Oh here's another resident of the new man cave.

Do you see a blue theme running here?

I'm joining Blue Monday and Metamorphosis Monday and

hope you will too!

Williams Sonoma Home

2010-09-18T09:38:00.025-04:00

While up visiting Miss B recently,

we went to the Williams Sonoma Home store.

They had so many nice vignettes setup in the store.

Tons of blue and white!

Love the blue and white. It makes me want to

re-do my living room book cases back to blue and white again.

Most of the store still seemed styled for summer time.

Here's Miss B posing in front of the lamp selection.

Sunflowers with blue & white - yummy!

I took this photo b/c I liked the lighting inside the bookcases.

A nice color combo of coral, white and brown.

A wall vignette of mirrors, clocks and prints.

Just a touch of fall on the front table.

I'll be quiet while you visit more blue and white around the store.

We had a great time browsing the store and I hope you did too!

I'm joining Blue Monday & Tabletop Tuesday.

Rabbit Hash, KY

2010-09-14T19:10:00.014-04:00

On day 2 of my visit with Miss B we were ready to venture out

beyond malls and shopping centers.

Rabbit Hash, KY was out destination.

Located about 1/2 hour from Covington, Rabbit Hash, KY

is famous for having a dog mayor.

Visit their charming website to read more here.

Off the interstate, most of the drive looks like this,

country roads winding up and down for miles.

Past fields recently harvested.

Small country churches

Rolling hills of farm after farm.

It was a beautiful day for a drive in the country. They weren't kidding when they said this was right

on the Ohio River. This is a picture from

our car maybe 30 feet from the waters edge.

When you think you are almost to nowhere,

you've made it! Now don't blink -

because you'll miss it! Here is Rabbit Hash's General Store.

An apparent favorite this day of the Harley crowd.

It was a great drive and even better chance to visit, but

this would not be a day trip worthy adventure, unless you wanted

a really cool place to visit and a really, really nice there.

I'm joining Outdoor Wednesday today.

Miss B's Home Office in a Closet

2010-09-12T18:10:00.014-04:00

I went up to visit Miss B at her new apartment this weekend. While visiting she mentioned that her desk area was quickly becoming cluttered with law books, papers, etc.

She has amble closet space at the apartment, so we googled home office in a closet and got these pictures of ideas.

This was my favorite, but she can't wall paper so it was out.

This was also nice because of the color and lightening.

Off to IKEA we went to look at possible ideas.

Miss B did not like the orange, but this was a good temporary setup for the closet because you could take it with you at the end of the lease.

This fold down top was nice because of the work area it created.

These type file cabinets could be placed on either side

to provide additional filing storage

Boxes, baskets or containers could provide

more storage for the top two shelves that

already exist in the closet.

This black wood desk was my favorite, but I like

traditional and Miss B likes contemporary.

I especially liked the mini-lamps inside.

We got some good ideas. I'll keep you posted on the progress.

I'm joining Susan at Between Naps on the Porch

for Metamorphosis Monday.

Dining with Dolls

2010-09-04T10:18:00.011-04:00

A recent trip to the lake brought us back to one of my favorite restaurants, Pattis 1880's Settlement. For more information about Pattis visit these posts here and here.

The room we dined in was decorated with dolls, which I thought was so charming!

This is a picture (above) of the doll directly above our table.

Here's a close up of the doll hanging below a garland of roses and wisteria.

And another doll in the corner of the room with lily and hydrangea.

I love Pattis food, but I love the atmosphere too!
I think I'm inspired to do a tablescape at home with dolls :)

Tomorrow is my "official" grand opening.

Wish me luck!

I'm joining Susan at Between Naps on the Porch &

Laurie at Bargain Hunting and Chatting with Laurie.

A Touch of Fall

2010-08-30T20:04:00.013-04:00

Update: I just joined a great party at domestically speaking !

Who's ready for fall? Well I guess I am since I've begun

rooting around the fall decorations at home.

I thought I'd start out small since it's still pre-Labor Day.

A few pumpkins & gourds in the punch bowl to

let Mother Nature know I'm ready for cool weather!

Here's some more of my blue and white collection too.

Spode napkin rings - 4 of a set of 12

A mod podge of appetizer plates collected at TJ Maxx.

Four little fish friends (I like the one swimming ahead)

which are chop stick holders for the table :)

And a small box brought home from Italy by

my parents with a gift in it for my son.

Above the buffet hands my portrait done in St. Louis

in the lobby of the

Well, one piece done, more to come!

I'm joining Marty at A Stroll Thru Life & The Gypsy's Corner.

More Lessons from the Store

2010-08-26T12:21:00.003-04:00

I told ya'll I'd keep you posted as I learned this new retail world so here's some more things learned as we close out week 3 of the store being opened.

1) Time can be your enemy

Number one ~I never have enough time to get all the "business" things of running a new business done. This includes banking, paperwork, supplies, inventory orders.

Number two ~in the shop I have nothing but time, especially when we are slow. One would think there would be time to do number one above, however a slow trickle of shoppers means I can never "get involved" in a in depth project like setting up tax reports.

2) You think you know nothing and then you know you knew even less

This maybe self explanatory. I thought I knew nothing about retail and would have a lot to learn. Turns out there's a world of retail lingo out there I don't know & probably have only tapped into a tinsy bit of it so far.

3) If you want a friend get a dog

So I already pretty much knew this in the business world, but guess what, in the retail world it's true too~ some customers- I'm sorry they are down right rude :(

4) Happiness can be measured in baby steps

Some days I open the store and hope to get just one sale. Heck some days I open and hope to get one customer~although I've been lucky with foot traffic so far. Other days I've measured success for the day by completion of a display or an inventory order or even this blog post.

Still happy I've opened the store. Still understand it's really early in the game.

Still soooo grateful for all your support, friendship, comments and visits ;)

Scarecrows and Sunflowers

2010-08-23T20:21:00.009-04:00

I thought I'd share with you today another tabletop display at the store.

This one is themed on scarecrows and sunflowers.

I love these pumpkin sunflowers. Aren't they cute?

Equally adorable are these scarecrow head bags

& the scarecrow goody bag pants! These make great gift

ideas for Sunday School, hostess gifts, grandkid surprises, etc.

Looks like harvest time to me!
I'm joining Table Top Tuesday and Three or More Tuesday.

Dreams Come True

2010-08-21T22:58:00.003-04:00

Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined.” Henry David Thoreau

I'm linking to Weekly Words to Live By at Notes from a Cottage Industry, who's blog I adore!

An Angel Left Her Wings

2010-08-18T19:46:00.014-04:00

Tonight I join Susan at Between Naps on the Porch

for another Tablescape Thursday.

I have this little angel. For me she left her wings.

She has no idea how much happiness she truly brings.

She brightens my days with her smiles and her laughs.

She helps me to remember all the blessing that I have.

Her face, is so perfect, she's sweet and soft and pure.

Sometimes she can be willful and sometimes she's demure.

She tries very hardest to please and do what's right.

She gives the greatest hugs from morning till night.

Every person that has known her sees this light within her soul.

I know that in this whole great world, she has a special role.

She's helpful and considerate to everyone she knows.

This light in her shines brighter as my angel grows.

When she sees someone is sad, it opens up her heart.

She wants to do all that she can; she wants to do her part.

She'll squeeze away the sorrow and make me forget my pain.

She shows me where the sun is when we're hiding from the rain.

I know that God must love me, He showed me with His Grace

I knew just how completely when I saw my angel's face

And in that very moment when she came into my world

I knew that she was so much more than just my baby girl.

She would be my sunshine, with a sweetness that won't end,

And when she grows up one day she would be my closest friend.

She would be the reason I always try my best.

For my little angel baby girl would be my greatest test.

For when God entrusts to you an angel, who has left her wings for you.

Encircle her with love with everything you do.

Let her know God made her, and that He trust you with her care.

Be sure to make time for special moments with her to share.

And when at night she finally says her prayers and goes to sleep

I Thank Him for my angel, and ask him to always keep

A watchful eye and hand to protect her from this world.

Protect my little angel; protect my baby girl.
By Tina M. Marascia

When Miss B left for law school a few weeks ago I must say I felt so proud of her and her accomplishments! I feel this poem represents so much of how I feel about her. A mom at 17, I could never imagine her becoming a law student when that picture of us (me with the long hair) was taken.

Tonight's tablescape was inspired by the wing creatures & my littel angel who has left her wings for Momma :)

Coffee Table Ideas from Mary Carol Garrity

2010-08-15T19:19:00.016-04:00

A Coffee Table Redo

Recently I read Ms. Garrity's blog about coffee table ideas and decided yes, my coffee table does need a redo.

So I started with this beautiful linen embroidered
towel my mother gave me as a base.

Then I layered in some of my Star of David collection - a cake plate, coasters and a candy dish.

Finally I added candle sticks and Ms. Bunny Williams

classic An Affair with a House.

I love the scalloped detail on the base of this cake plate. It's a bit hard to see by picture, but the glassware showed nicely against the dark wood table.

Miss Madison would like you to visit these lovely ladies parties to see other great ideas. She would also like her mother to get her to the beauty salon for a trim :)

Metamorphosis Monday, Table Top Tuesday, Three or More Tuesday, and White Wednesday.

Autumnal Display

2010-08-10T08:22:00.015-04:00

Tomorrow is our first day of school so I'm into fall and ready to start decorating! This year I've combined blue & white with orange, which

I had done last year, but in addition I added in some rust and yellow.

I love these faux corn cobs to mix in with your pumpkins & gourds.

A beeutiful cornucopia.

The addition of this table runner adds a nice texture.

A line up of pumpkin spreaders and utensils.

Hope you're getting ready for fall too!

Today I'm joining Table Top Tuesday and Three or More Tuesday.

New Store Introduction

2010-08-08T20:25:00.011-04:00

It's official. My little slice of retail heaven opened at 10:00 AM yesterday.

I can't thank my family enough for all their love, support and hard work helping me get open in just three days!

You may remember what the store looked like before here.

These are some general shots of each wall.

I will share more pictures later on of each display.

I was very happy with the shopper turnout yesterday.

Now for my long list of what to do & change!

I'm joining Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for

Metamorphosis Monday.

Tablescape Revisit

2010-08-04T20:36:00.004-04:00

Well, I've been so busy getting the new store ready I've not had time to even think about a Tablescape. So I'm asking you to revisit my first tablescape attempt here.

In the mean time I'm working like mad to get everything ready for opening day this Saturday! I have learned that this Saturday in conjunction with the National Hod Rod Association event held at the fairground, our local business merchant group will be shuttling 300-400 shoppers into Middletown.

Pause for panic.

Well, I don't know if I'll have it all ready for such a large group, but you can only do what you can do right? That's my mantra for the week at least. Thanks for coming by to visit!

Please visit other tablescapes at Susan's Between Naps on the Porch site.

Blue and White Always a Delight!

2010-07-29T18:29:00.010-04:00

Blue and white has been a staple of mine for years. I've slowly built a collection from a few pieces at Stein Mart to over twenty pieces plus two sets of 12 placesettings.

I love these big fish bowls. You can use them for vases, serving pieces for parties, even magazine holders.

This collection of small blue and white sits on the shelves between my kitchen and tv room.

A picture of my entry way in spring time.

Here's an early tablesetting I did when I first started blogging last year. I like the blue and orange combination (hint - you'll see more of that this fall at the store).

Think about some blue and white for your decor. It is a great "neutral" for any decor.

I'm joining Show and Tell Friday, My Favorite Things Saturday and Blue Monday. Please visit these blogs for more great posts!

Things I'm Learning . . .

2010-07-29T10:15:00.004-04:00

Thought I'd share a few things I'm learning as I go along in the store opening process for those of you that thought you might want to open a small store some day. Most of this is common sense that I knew would be true and guess what it is!
First, it has taken more of everything than I'd planned: more money, more time, more energy, more flexibility, you get the idea.
Some background on me - my day job is as a Firm Administrator for a regional CPA firm. This means I run the day to day administrative functions of the firm: payroll, recruitment, financials, personnel, etc. I have had this job for 15 years so I'm pretty adapt at business management.

I've run my booth space for three years so I have had experience with placing orders, stocking, pricing, etc., but there are still a thousand things that I did not have to do that I do have to do now that I'm a storefront.

Here's some suggestions:

Start with a good business plan and budget. I don't know how many times I've gone back to that to stay on track.
Stay true to your budget. This does not mean I've not had to move money around in categories, say for example, when the previous tenant took the light fixture - I had to buy one b/c I did not want to use the one the landlord offered. Money from marketing went over to supplies but the total budget remained the same.
Have the support of family, friends, other retailers. I have wanted to bounce ideas off all kinds of folks along the way. It's hard when you are the sole decision maker. Get to know owners of similar shops so you can run things by them.
Stay true to yourself. I think it has been tempting to try new things, copy what another store in the area is doing, etc. but I have not done that b/c I want my store to reflect my taste and vision. I think I offer nice products at reasonable prices and in the end the public will decide if that's good enough by either shopping or not.

More later as I go along . . . have to go now and price three boxes of fall inventory!!

Tabletop Inspirations

2010-07-26T19:22:00.008-04:00

Since I'm in full on autumnal mode for the new store, I thought I would share a few photos from my "inspiration" file with you guys today.

I love this silver mirror & compotes
with the golden tones of the leaves & gourds.

These images are from country living online.

Hydrangea and pumpkins - yummy!

The more subtle shades of fall are also appealing.

Hope this gets some ideas flowing for your house this fall.
Today I'm joining Tabletop Tuesday

at a Stroll Thru Life.