Simply Hue

Follow Me on Twitter!

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Fri, 18 May 2012 22:55:00 +0000

Hi! Just wanted to give you the heads up that I've opened a Twitter account. Yes, I'm going to be amongst the tweeting population once again. If you want to hear news and updates about my photography, Simply Hue, or my creativity e-courses, I'd love for you to follow. Just click on THIS LINK! :)

Introducing The Hope Tree

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Fri, 18 May 2012 19:52:00 +0000

Good morning. :) Can't believe this week is almost through! It's one of those weeks where I look back and feel like I accomplished next to nothing. Have you ever had one of those weeks? I started out with all of these big goals and ended up just keeping up with daily tasks and unplanned events. I think that's o.k. from time to time, though. Tomorrow's a new day, right?

I thought today I'd pop in to introduce you to one of my newest sponsors, The Hope Tree (also known as "French Vintage) I was so fortunate to be able to work out a trade with her for a vintage French artist's paint box from the early 1900's. I can hardly wait to receive it in the mail and plan on taking lots of photos!! Hayley lives in France and finds the most exquisite antique French items to sell in her shop. I especially love the tiny framed brooch and the vintage music sheets. Enjoy browsing, and if you have a second, come back and let me know a couple of your favorites. :)

Styles I Love

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Wed, 16 May 2012 21:50:00 +0000

O.k., these photos have convinced me that I need to get out of my yoga pants, coral tank top, and white sports jacket and into something a little more feminine and fun! I love this time of year when we can put our warmer clothes away and pull out our light airy tops and comfortable flats and Converse. ;)

You can find these outfits and more on my PINTEREST!

Which do Your Prefer?

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Mon, 14 May 2012 17:59:00 +0000

Hi again. :) I haven't asked your opinions in awhile and just wondered which of these photos you prefer? I just can't decide! I have the one with the black tabs up in my Society 6 shop right now but am tempted to switch it out for the "tabless" one.

What do YOU think? Which one do you prefer?

Framed Instagram Collages

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Mon, 14 May 2012 17:42:00 +0000

Well, good morning! Hope your Monday is going well so far. If you're a Mom, did you have a nice Mother's Day? I had a really relaxed day and felt so appreciated my my three grown "kids". My middle daughter knows how much I love the country and took a drive to take photos to send to me on her phone. I thought that was so sweet and thoughtful of her and it just made my day. :)

It's gorgeous in Seattle today and I've already taken a walk with our two dogs (Finley the Havanese puppy, and Bojangles the 4 year old Puggle). It feels so good to have the sun hitting me in the face and there's a soft sweet breeze blowing. Sigh....we've needed these blue skies for months and I plan on enjoying them!

I took these i phone photos recently and wanted to tell you about the new (at least new to me) frame application I found called Pic Frame. It's been fun exploring their frame options and trying them out. I apologize that this post isn't pertinent to all of you, but thought I'd at least share the info. for those of you who have i phones. Either way, I hope these images will brighten your day a little. ;)

New Sponsor ~ bialaKura

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Thu, 03 May 2012 18:42:00 +0000

Good morning! I feel so honored to have a new sponsor on my site! She is so talented that it was tough for me to choose just six of her pieces to show you. Not only is she an amazing photographer with an eye for beauty, but she also designs hand made bookmarks, greeting cards, and unique silhouettes using her photography as the background. Artists like Agnieszka challenge me to stretch myself a bit creatively. There's so much more I want to do with my art!

How about YOU? What new creative ideas do you have stirring around in your head?

Beautiful Mother's Day Brunch

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Thu, 03 May 2012 18:15:00 +0000

For Mother's Day it's been a tradition to have a nice brunch at our house and then to head to a nearby family-owned Rhodedendron garden. I'm feel some mixed emotions this year because we no longer live in our family home in a small country town, but moved to a tiny condo last October. I have some health issues that make it tough for me to hold big family events at our place anymore because I get this overwhelming fatigue after I try to do too much .... which I'm known to do. I'm thinking that this year we'll go out for brunch and, in keeping with tradition, squeeze in a visit to the Rhody gardens. :)

The photos above are of a lovely Mother's Day brunch put on by the team of Sunday Suppers. Their menu sounds delicious! They offered Arugula Salad with Mango + Panko fried Goat Cheese, Croque Monsieur French Toast, Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Butter and Parmesan AND for dessert (don't ever forget dessert!) they had Berries with Citrus and Vanilla Mascarpone. Oh yum!

What are YOUR plans for Mother's Day this year?

I Could Live Here

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Wed, 02 May 2012 17:48:00 +0000

Good morning. :) Having a good week so far? I've been keeping pretty busy with our new Havanese puppy, Finley! If I can get him to hold still long enough, I'll post a couple of photos. ;) I spotted these photos a few days ago via Deco Photo Blog and knew right away that I could seriously settle down in a home/cabin like this. I adore the neutral colors, all the natural wood work, and the comfy welcoming mood. You know me, though ... I couldn't be perfectly content without a little more color! Paint a few accent walls and toss a few colorful pillows and throw blankets on the furniture and I could settle down.

What about YOU? Could you live here?

Popular Items in My Society 6 Shop

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 21:05:00 +0000

You can find these in my Society 6 shop! Here's the BLUE one, and here' the PINK one. They're going fast! :)

A day in the country ....

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 17:22:00 +0000

Last weekend was so nice .... I took an hour drive to the small town where we lived for over 13 years. It warmed my heart to see the trees blossoming, to breathe in the fresh country air, and to drink in the expansive beauty of the countryside. It gave me just what I needed to begin a new week in our new home in the city. I'm definitely a country girl at heart and it's been a big adjustment living here. It's comforting to know that the country, my friends, and family are just a short drive away. :)

* Photos taken with Instagram

Raining Umbrellas "Friends Special"!

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 19:31:00 +0000

Good morning, friends! Just want you to know that there's still plenty of room for you (and even a close friend) if you'd like to be a part of RAINING UMBRELLAS, Lessons in Creativity. I promise you won't be disappointed and you'll have a beautiful start to this lovely Spring season.

Please don't hesitate ... this is something you can do JUST FOR YOU. :) If you have any questions feel free to write me at matissecolor@gmail.com

* Former students can take the course for 1/2 price ($39.50)! And, I've just posted a new "FRIENDS SPECIAL" on the e-course page. If you and a friend take Raining Umbrellas together, it's just $50 each (the regular price is $79)! xo

Anthropologie on Pinterest

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 19:20:00 +0000

Here's someone you might want to follow on Pinterest. :) Anthropologie has set up their own Pinterest page and there's almost too much beauty to handle! Hope you enjoy browzing it like I have. xo

Good News for Picnik Users!

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 16:30:00 +0000

If you were a dedicated user of the free photo editing program, Picnik, you are probably aware that today is the last day that it will be available. I was pretty disappointed when I heard the news because I'm still a novice when it comes to Photoshop. Good news, though! In it's place is a new photo editing program called Pic Monkey. I tried it out yesterday and was really happy with the results (the Magnolia photo above). It was super easy and fun to use and I thought it was easier to maneuver than Picnik. There are many of the same options...basic edits along with textures and special effects....and even a few extras. Plus, I really like the vintage look to their website design!

If you try it, let me know what you think! Do you have other editing programs you'd like to recommend?

Illustrations by Camilla Engman

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 18:04:00 +0000

Have you seen the work of Camilla Engman? This is only a tiny sample of her amazing body of illustrations. She also creates unique and eye catching mixed media pieces, colorful and imaginative paintings, and custom artwork for public commissions.

Hmmmm..... she might be a great one to have as our Resident Artist for Droplets or Raining Umbrellas (register now for the Spring session beginning May 7th)!

Registration for Raining Umbrellas Open!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 18:04:00 +0000

Good morning. :) I'm so excited to announce that registration for the Spring 2012 session of RAINING UMBRELLAS is now open!!! I'm extra excited about this Spring session (scheduled for May 7 - June 1) because I've added a couple of d0-it-yourself projects from talented artists such as the sweet Tina Fussel (Traveling Mama). Plus, it's Spring here in the States and it feels like a time for renewal and creativity. I've taught this highly inspiring and fun course five times now and each time it just gets better. The interaction between students is great to watch and we build such bonds throughout the four weeks we spend together.

To find out more information and to register visit my E-course Page. Hope you'll join us!! xo

NOTE: Class size is usually between 10-20 students so you get lots of individual attention and feedback from me and get to know the other students in a more personal way. :)

Early Spring Fashion

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 17:22:00 +0000

All photos found at Wit and Delight!

I don't know about you, but I'm not quite ready to give up my cozy Winter sweaters. I think these light pullovers are a great compromise, especially if you twist your hair up in a messy bun.

Have you packed away your Winter sweaters and pulled out lighter tops and blouses or are you holding on to your cozy attire just a little bit longer?

The Maple Tea House

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 18:49:00 +0000

Look at these sweet pastel photos by The Maple Tea House. They're just so feminine and sweet, don't you think?

Be back soon to announce the next session of RAINING UMBRELLAS!

Diary of a Mod Housewife

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 18:22:00 +0000

This is only a taste of the beauty and interestingness (is that a word?) you'll discover when you visit the blog of Elle Moss. I love visiting her spot on the web. Her tastes are right up my alley and she finds such unique and original things to feature. Please pay Diary of a Mod Housewife a visit. I think you'll be addicted. ;)

A Modern Rustic Home

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 21:35:00 +0000

Photos found HERE!

You know, I think I've finally come up with a name for the style of our home. Ready for this amazing epiphany? Our style is (wait for this) "Modern Rustic". :) These home photos have elements that I love such as plank floors, rustic/modern decor, and lots of light! I also like the touches of soft feminine color here and there.

What about YOU? What's your home style or at least your dream home style?

P.S. I'd throw a few handmade toss pillows on the bed and couches. ;)

A Great Birthday

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 19:03:00 +0000

Photo found via Sherri Koop

Good morning. :-) Yesterday was my birthday (not giving away the actual number ... ha, ha) and I had a great day! Even though we didn't do anything super exciting, I really enjoyed all of the messages I received on Facebook along with the texts and phone calls from friends and family. I felt loved. :-)

Hope you're doing well and enjoying some warm Spring weather. It's been gorgeous in the Pacific Northwest the last couple of days! Have a great day today and I'll be back soon. xoxo

* You can find this photo along with i phone cases and stationary in my Society 6 shop.

More photos from our ocean trip ....

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Sat, 07 Apr 2012 19:10:00 +0000

It's a beautiful warm day here in Seattle (and I'm definitely not complaining), but boy do I miss the beach! If I could choose any place on earth to whittle away the hours or days, it would be at the ocean.

How about you? What's your favorite place to spend a day?

* You can find these photos in my Simply Hue Naturals shop. :)

Gatherings Spring 2012 Issue is out!

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 21:42:00 +0000

Gatherings Magazine Spring Issue is out and it looks like it's going to be a beautiful one! I think there's a $4.00 subscription that covers the cost of four issues....only a dollar an issue. It's definitely well worth it! Heather Spriggs, the editor of Gatherings magazine, has wonderful vintage tastes and jam packs her magazines with so much beauty. Definitely grab your favorite beverage and a comfy chair when you sit down to read it.

Hope you're having a great week so far, friends. I see some sun peeking out behind our clouds. Yay!!!

A couple new photos ...

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 18:47:00 +0000

I'm really enjoying my new Instagram App. for i phone! It can be pretty addictive but it's reminding me to stop and appreciate beauty each day. You can find these photos in my Simply Hue Naturals shop on Society 6. :)

Ruche has a new bridal section!

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 18:53:00 +0000

This probably is old news to you but since I've been slacking off with blogging lately, I hadn't been able to post about Ruche's new bridal department. Even though I've been married for years, I still drool when I look at the romantic styles they've come up with. I think it might be time to renew some vows. ;)

If you haven't had a chance yet, take a minute to enjoy their lookbook, "To Have and to Hold". If you're a romantic like me, it will have you dreaming. xo

Inspiring New Zealand Artist

noreply@blogger.com (Vicki Dvorak) — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 18:42:00 +0000

Good morning. :) Hope you had a great weekend! Nothing super memorable happened during mine, but I did enjoy relaxing and taking a long walk with my husband by the marina and water. There's nothing like the sound of waves lapping on the shore to cause me to feel peaceful. Sigh .....

I came across the work of Andrea Cook, a talented New Zealand artist, a while back but have never featured it until now. I love the soft tones, the natural and humorous themes, and the delicate nature of her illustrations.

What about you? What do you appreciate about her work?