A historic country home done up in a modern way

I’m writing you guys from Chicago today, where I’m visiting a friend before heading over to Spain to visit my boyfriend for a month. I saw this house in Elle Decor and thought it was really nice – and worth a share. What do you think?

Looovvee those weathered leathered chairs, the oversize ottoman/coffee table, and the hydrangea arrangement.




I would never think to paint my bedroom such a dark brown, but it’s actually looks quite relaxing.

via Elle Decor

A fun new book to check out

I was lucky enough to be able to review “The Big-Ass Book of Home Decor” by Mark Montano. The decorating projects are modern, always budget conscious, and I think easy enough for most of us to do. I also liked that he has a list at the end of decorating project “basics” that he always keeps around the house to have on hand as needed. Here are a few of my favorites.

A wall finish done with a rolling pin

Each project has an instruction page.

Love the sketch look of this butterfly pillow




And a super cute birdcage pillow

The book also includes templates for the projects in the back so you can photocopy them and use them as stencils. You can buy it online at places like Amazon.

The intriguing and beautiful photography of Karin Nussbaumer

Happy Friday! I thought I’d just give you some eye candy today as if you’re anything like me, you’re probably already checked out 🙂






See more at Karin Nassbaumer

A polished Scandinavian style home

As you all know I’m a big fan of Scandinavian interiors, so I thought the lovely home of this young couple was worth sharing. It’s a bit too “all white” for me, as my tastes have changed a little over the past year, but I still appreciate the rooms on an individual level.



Love the candelabra in the bathroom!

This is my favorite shot – the fabric inspiration board looks like art and ads a little personality to the place.



I have to admit I am not into the whole cow hide trend. I think the living room would look cozier with a regular rug, and instead of the two dining room chairs on the opposite side of the coffee table, something a little plusher.


What do you think of this place? What would you change?

via KML Design

A charming Graden/Lawn in Denmark

It’s Wednesday – half way through the work week and being able to spend a lazy – or productive – day out in the yard.






I would love to have a hammock like this.



via Indenfor

Rustic, but elegant bathrooms

I like the rustic style – but not too rustic. That’s why this bathroom really appealed to me. It’s rustic – but clean and elegant at the same time. What do you think?






via BHG

Happy Friday – pretty bedrooms perfect for sleeping in!

I am not an early bird, and for me guilt free Saturday mornings sleeping in never, ever gets old. These bedrooms would only encourage me to spend more time in them!


Adore this white and airy bedroom


What do you think of the branch?








via Country Living

Out of this world gorgeous photography from Gemma Comas

Not much needs to be said here – Gemma’s eye is a gift to us all.







I love her flower shots

Check out more on her site, gemmacomas.com

Favorite images from my favorite blogs

Just another installment of “Favorite Images from my Favorite Blogs,” and, as usual, chock full of gorgeous eye candy.

In no particular order –

Blu Label Bungalow
My favorite part of this image – the closet. One day – one day.


Organized shelves like these make me swoon.

Check out more at Blu Label Bungalow.

These dreamy images are from Mochatini.
What a great way to dine.




Last but not least, Katy Elliot’s blog

I can’t wait until I have a living room big enough that I can actually but a table behind my couch.


See more at Katy Elliott.

Create your own candles

I was lucky enough to be given the opportunity by Lumnique to test out their “build your own candle” site and report my results to you guys. It was easy and fun, and I took screenshots of the process. You can click on each image for a large, easier to read view.

First, you choose your “intention” for your candle or gift candle. I chose “Courage” since I’ve been needing some with starting my own web design company and I’ve been without the security of a corporate paycheck. Other intentions include, “A Harmonious Home,” “Passion,” “Love,” “Healing,” “Good Luck,” etc.

Then, you pick out of several colors – I was torn between gray and dove, but Dove matches my decor a bit better.

Lastly, you chose the fragrance. They have many fragrances categorized by three scent families – “citrus/fruit,” “floral/aromatherapy,” and “Nature/SpiceCuisine.” Since I like florals and soft, clean scents, I chose “Almond Blossom.”

The candle comes with a small booklet explaining your selections in a little more detail, or you can write a personalized gift message.

I was excited when it arrived. It comes in a lovely box which I’ll be repurposing to organize some craft supplies.



It is pretty much as I expected. The color is accurate; the candle is actually larger than I thought, and has two wicks. The smell is perfect for me as it’s light and delicate. All in all, I think this is a nice “personalized” touch for the home. The scent I chose is best for a bedroom or bathroom, as it’s very calming. I’d be interested in trying out one of the spice/cuisine scents to test out in the kitchen.

If you’re interested in buying a candle or checking out the customization process, go to lumnique.com. The site is very user friendly. I’d be interested to hear what scent/color combinations you guys pick and how they turn out!