stephmodo

Le Moulin Cougnaguet

2013-05-19T23:52:00.001-07:00

Sometimes the best days are the ones you don't anticipate to be particularly memorable. I am learning, more and more, that the perceived success of most things in life relates to expectations. When they are low, there is room to be pleasantly surprised. When they are high, it's difficult to measure up. Needless to say, I am working on the former, which I believe will be a happier route.

Anyway, one Wednesday, when the children did not have school (in France they do not have school on Wednesdays), we took advantage of a short burst of sun and drove east to the Lot department. Although only an hour and a half away, the scenery was completely different from our little, lush green valley in the Dordogne. On the docket for the day was a stop at a fortified, Medieval mill called Cougnaguet, en route to Rocamadour (pictures forthcoming!). My husband, Ben, discovered it with his friend Chris last year and I requested a trip after tasting some of the flour he brought back. It was incredible. My buttermilk pancakes and crepes have never tasted so good! And since all my favorite memories have to do with food, in some shape or form, I felt compelled to see the source of this pure goodness myself.

The road to the mill, just off the main road, which was really not much of a road--it barely fit two cars--looked like this image above. I didn't know what to expect at this point, but I was certainly intrigued.

Once we rounded this curve, the excitement set in...the cool turquoise from the river, the chartreuse green grass and the warm, limestone cliffs stopped me in my tracks. Nature created one of the prettiest color palettes I've seen to date. I quickly pulled over our van to snap a picture.

Upon arrival, we peeked into the mill to see if anyone was there. In France, it is common to show up to a shop, site, church, etc. only to find a handwritten note on the door indicating they decided to close up that day for personal reasons. So, at this point we didn't know what to expect, but we were hopeful despite the empty welcome desk. I went through my mental checklist...1. Was it a French holiday today? No. 2. Was it lunch time? (everything shuts down 12-2 in the French countryside). No. Okay, so we were probably good, right?!

After our four children had made a sufficient amount of racket, the friendly mill operator came walking out of the building. I was relieved! He and my husband conversed in French while I tried to pick up a few words from their conversation (pretty much my strategy all the time!). As we were the only visitors at the time, we were able to begin our tour immediately.

To summarize, construction on the mill began in the late 13th century, finishing up in the middle of the next century around 1350. It has the capacity to produce 3 tons of flour each day, and the reason it was fortified was because during times of famine, it was often attacked. This mill produced flour until 1959...can you believe that? After tasting the delicious flour, we wondered why they stopped! We found it absolutely incredible that a building could function properly for hundreds of years. I wish quality like this still existed!

After some hit or miss weather all month, we were thrilled with the sunshine that day. Clearly I wasn't the only person enjoying the warmth. When I exited the mill to find out where my children had disappeared to, I discovered them all playing by the river together. No fighting, no bickering, no discontent of any kind. This was the part where low expectations paid off--I did not anticipate this moment, but it made me so happy to find them making daisy chains, tying flowers with grass and throwing sticks into the river.

At the end of our visit, the mill operator allowed us to each take a bag of flour home...so that's 6 bags in all (Gray needed some for his pancakes, right?). I couldn't wait to put them to good use. We stocked up on two bags each of the 3 types of flour--all varying in weight. Some were fine and others were more hearty. But all ground on the same, Medieval "equipment".

Funny story: when my husband left the country a couple of weeks before us, I sent him home with the flour in his carry-on suitcase--all six bags. Once in the United States, he was pulled aside at customs for a search, after the bags showed up on the scanner. They thought he was trying to smuggle in cocaine! The agent said to him, "what have you got here?". Ben then told him they were bags of flour, to which the agent replied, "is that what they are calling it these days?". After the drug test came out positive, my husband told him a little about the mill. I'm sure the agent was not amused!

More images from the afternoon below...I will never forget this day.

Sarlat Market

2013-04-21T13:33:00.000-07:00

My family of six has been in France for a couple of weeks now and while I've been photographing quite a bit, I've mostly been enjoying our time together and dealing with house-related tasks and projects. If you've ever owned and/or renovated a very old home, then you know how easy it is to fill your time with an endless to-do list! This is definitely a working vacation, but we love this little cottage so much that we plow through these issues with gladness (most of the time!). We keep saying that "next time we will do this {insert fun activity}" and "next time we will resist the temptation to work on this {insert time-consuming house project}", but inevitably we cannot resist. What can I say? This sweet maisonnette is our baby...our 5th one that is :) And quite honestly, just being here is vacation enough for us. We are so grateful to be here.

One thing we always allow time for is going to the Sarlat market on Saturdays. I prefer to do all of my produce shopping at the market, so it's easy to justify piling into the van and heading fifteen minutes away to this fantastic outdoor market. There are parts of the market that feel a bit touristy, but there are enough locals here to make it feel authentic and certainly worthwhile. My limited French gets me by in simple situations like this, so the market is an experience I can thoroughly enjoy. I love it.

Favorites include homemade jam, homemade pressed juices, strawberries, walnuts, mushrooms, cheese, sausages and white asparagus--all local and all delicious. Also, not-to-be missed are the Sarlandaise potatoes (similar to a gratin, but baked with duck fat) and crepes from a woman I call the Crepe Lady. She is often near the paella/Sarlandaise potato vendor, which makes her easy to spot. Seeing her dark hair peeking out of her hoodie and cheerful, yellow awning always makes me smile. On our most recent visit yesterday, we stopped by for a savory crepe on the way in to the market and then for a sweet crepe on our way out. Since I hadn't seen her at the market in almost 2 years, I justified the repeated visit! Little details like homemade nut spread, fresh berries, and interesting combinations make her crepes my favorite in France.

Here are a few snapshots from our outing...

p.s. France is not immune to kitsch as you can see from the ice cream cone trash can shown above :) But, don't you think that's one fabulous receptacle?

p.p.s. more images here and here if you're curious.

images by me

Merci in Paris Goes Online

2013-04-19T08:46:00.002-07:00

When lucky enough to be in Paris, my #1 favorite shop is Merci in the Marais. The large, three-story boutique is full of special things, both high and low. Meaning, you can spend $1000 or you can spend $10 (not kidding!). Either way you will come back with something you just love...a little journal, a mug, a set of napkins, pretty pens, etc. The collections are tasteful, interesting and superbly styled. But there is more depth to Merci than just a fantastically curated shop--it also serves as a launching pad for young designers. More importantly, proceeds from Merci feed into a charity for children in Madagascar. A perfect meld of finding success and giving back. If you'd like to read up a little more about these sorts of details, head here and here.

If you starting reading my blog back in 2009, no doubt you've noticed I post about it just about every time we travel to France to work on our little cottage in the Dordogne. I am so sorry if you are becoming slightly bored with these posts, but I just had to let you know today that Merci recently announced the opening of their online shop--with international shipping (this is huge!!). So whether you live in rural Texas or New York City, you too can enjoy a petite slice of Paris with the click of a few buttons. Hopefully that will tide you over until you can visit the brick and mortar space in person :)

more "Merci" blasts from the past: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

Searching for Sugar Man, a Documentary

2013-04-16T14:50:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since I watched a documentary that I enjoyed as much as Searching for Sugar Man. The storyline, the music and the humility of the man portrayed certainly impressed me. Not in a blown-up, fantastic way; but rather, in a simple and interesting way. Truly, the mark of a good movie in my book :)

Now, I don't want to give away any details (I prefer to walk into films knowing little about them other than that they are worthwhile), but I do want to encourage you to see it if you have a chance. In Seattle, it's showing at our international cinema and I imagine a film of this genre will be shown in similar venues in your area. You can peek at the website for more info!

image still from the movie

24 Hours in Barcelona

2013-04-14T13:56:00.000-07:00

Since renovating our French cottage back in 2009, we've discussed how interesting it might be to fly into Barcelona, instead of Paris. Supposedly the drive was an hour longer from the airport (6.5 v. 5.5 and after 20 hours of traveling ever hour counts), but the allure of the Pyranees lingered. After seeing that airline tickets were less expensive by a few hundred dollars each, we decided to give it a try. Oh the thrill of exploring a new place!

The timing on this trip was ideal in so many ways, given the momentous project I'd just completed and the fact that I felt we were due for a vacation with just our family (it had been 2 years). On Monday and Wednesday of that week, I shipped off my Anthropologie shipments. On Thursday, I cleaned, did laundry and packed up small suitcases for everyone (since I am traveling home alone with the kids, packing light was the name of the game). Then, early on Friday morning, we headed to the airport in Seattle and our family adventure began.

This was my second time in Spain, but first time to Barcelona. My first exposure to Spain was 17 years ago with my AP Spanish class! I know I am dating myself here, but there you have it. I vividly remember the hot sun, fantastic art, espadrilles, gazpacho and the thrill of studying a new culture firsthand. This was my first time abroad without my parents and I can still remember how much I enjoyed my independence as a teenager.

Barcelona is well-known for its incredible architecture and often visitors reminisce that this was their favorite charachteristic about the city. Gaudi is likely the most famous and recognizable, but he certainly isn't the only big name in town. Walking, driving and touring around was a feast for the eyes. How incredible it was to be in a place so incredibly supportive of inventive architecture and design, even when others mocked or discredited the results at times. I feel this general vibe also relates to the human experience. Stepping out, working hard, following your passions and not paying too much attention to 'the haters', has the potential to create the best possible results.

My husband found a great little apartment to rent via AirBnB. When your family is large enough to require 2 hotel rooms, renting a apartment in Europe is much more cost effective. Also, the access to a kitchen saves parents from incurring added expense and frustrating dining experiences with overtired chidren :) The view was incredible and the decor was really fun; but, I think my favorite detail was the black-out shutters. These made trying to work through our jet-lag so much easier and honestly, we needed all the help we could get that night! It was crazy.

We were only there together as a family for one day, but we did our darndest to haul our jet-lagged bodies out into the warm sun and see as much as possible of this beautiful city. It turns out those touristy double decker bus tours are the perfect solution when dealing with a limited time frame and little energy. Definitely make sure you get a seat up top!

A La Modo + Anthropologie

2013-04-11T12:22:00.002-07:00

Hello, hello! It's been awhile, now hasn't it? Perhaps some of you wondered if I was returning to my blog! Well, I am definitely still here and have so much to share with you; but first, let me explain why I've been away for a few weeks.

A couple of months ago, a buyer from Anthropologie approached me on Etsy about carrying my deluxe pie box kits and color block utensils online. Needless to say I was ecstatic!! I've worked hard to create these pie boxes over the last couple of years and it feels like an absolute dream to have these original packages for sale on one of my favorite sites. Even if they don't sell well for some reason, I still consider the collaboration a career high. This opportunity created an increased incentive for me to officially copyright my boxes through a patent attorney (email me if you need a rec), rebrand (new logo designed by Rachel Jones), and increase product offerings. I've been meaning to tackle these projects for some time now, but this experience gave me the kick in the pants I needed!

When I think about my products joining the ranks of all the other beautiful things on Anthropologie's site in about 3 weeks or so, I feel a combination of emotions--shock, honor, gratitude, disbelief and frankly, a bit of anxiety. Putting yourself or your work out there can be a bit frightening, although I do believe these types of feelings are indicative of being on a path to grown. I appreciate Eleanor Roosevelt's advice to, "do one thing every day that scares you". Wise words indeed.

I shipped the order just last week, so the few weeks prior were pretty intense. Our family life was turned upside down and we did our best to get through with as little upheaval as possible. I survived with help from a few good friends, my husband, and divine intervention. The hardest part was dealing with an increased workload on top of existing family life. Just because I was dealing with a momentous project didn't mean my children's lives stopped--they still needed to be fed, bathed, dressed, schlepped, tended to, read to, listened to, etc. And my husband's work schedule didn't suddenly lighten up. Nights became later and later and one by one balls started dropping. My home fell apart, my time in the kitchen was minimal, routines were neglected and I know my children sensed I was distracted, even if I tried to do all my work while they slept. I learned many important lessons throughout the experience--one being that no one can do it all. When you choose to take on a project, albeit worthwhile, something has to give. In fact, some things have to give. I am so grateful to have this awareness now.

Now that picnic pie box kits and utensils have arrived to distribution centers, I am appreciative for the sense of normalcy that's already being restored to my life. It will take a little time to put everything back together, but I don't have any regrets. I am excited to clear out our bedroom (my temporary warehouse, much to my husband's chagrin), work on decorating my kids rooms finally, choose a laundry solution (thanks for all the tips!!) and get back into the kitchen. It turns out, it's the simplest things that bring peace and happiness to my life {note to self}.

Last weekend I mentioned the Anthropologie collaboration on instagram / facebook and I want you to know how much I appreciated all the well wishes. They truly warmed my heart, so thank you!

DIY Easter Centerpiece: Macaron "Paint" Palette

2013-03-25T01:07:00.004-07:00

With the Easter holiday just one week away, I thought it would be fun to share a simple DIY for a macaron "paint" palette. I created this centerpiece originally for my oldest daughter's Art Party, but a friend recently suggested that it would also make a lovely, somewhat unexpected addition to an Easter feast tabletop. The timing of her comment was perfect as I was already planning on making one for my friend Ashley, who is both a baker, food lover and artist. I haven't put together an original birthday gift like that in some time, and I was again reminded of the satisfaction that comes with making something.

Supplies are minimal, although somewhat specialty--a wood paint palette, macarons in varying hues and buttercream for "glue". The wood paint palette was $6 at a local art supply store (I suggest calling ahead as not every store I phoned carried this item in its classic, wooden form). I procured the macarons from two different local bakeries--one that baked more subtle, pastel hues and another that focused on more intense flavors and colors (Le Panier and Bakery Nouveau in Seattle). If you don't live in a city where you can find such sweets so easily, consider ordering them from bakers on Etsy (this one looks top notch!). The prices are the same as, or cheaper than, what you will find in an actual brick and mortar bakery so that's good news. You'll need about 10 macarons for the palette, but consider buying a few extra, just in case. In the end you can always eat them if you don't use them!

Once I adhered the macarons to the palette, I knew I couldn't go back and rearrange. So, first I laid them out on the tabletop in the approximate shape they would take on the palette. This simple step gave me a chance to move colors around, eliminate a few shades entirely and essentially figure out what looked best together.

The "glue" was simply one stick of butter creamed with 1 cup powdered sugar...that's it!

A tiny dollop is all you need to secure the macaron to the palette. Be sure to place it delicately on the palette to avoid crushing its thin, outer shell (speaking from experience!). I propped the pictured macaron paint palette on a pedestal cake stand, but you could also turn a vase upside down and use that as a stand in a pinch as well.

In the end you'll have a beautiful centerpiece that you can eat for dessert and enjoy thoroughly. Add a paint brush if you'd like and consider flanking the centerpiece with simple bouquets of tulips in similar hues. Save the eggs for the hunt!

A La Modo, An Affogato + a Favorite Dress

2013-03-19T23:05:00.003-07:00

I see hints of sandals, cropped pants and other springlike attire on my instagram feed, but today in the Pacific Northwest it rained steadily throughout the day. And while pedicured toes and sunglasses are not yet required in these parts, we do have the perfect backdrop for cozying up with a good book and a cup of Dark Hot Chocolate Affogato. This liquid dessert is fairly new to my repertoire, but it's fast become a favorite--particularly on days like this. I highly suggest treating yourself to a cup if you are experiencing similarly chilly weather!

Also, I have been steadily working on an exciting project that I am anxious to share with you soon. Just give me a couple of weeks to wrap things up! One little hint: it has to do with my growing pie box business, which was recently rebranded and copyrighted. Rachel Jones of Black Eiffel created the logo and my husband, Ben, came up with the name (très a propos since he also came up with my blog name). I am so pleased with it, I must admit. Rachel did an amazing job!

And one last note that's style related...last year I purchased a cap-sleeved maxi dress from the Gap that I basically lived in all summer. It's machine washable, comfortable and perfect with a pair of gladiators. I recently noticed their sister company, Old Navy, if now offering an almost identical dress (at least in appearance...can't vouch for the fabric just yet), for half price this season. For those of you experiencing warmer Spring weather, you could easily wear this right now. I just had to share this favorite with you!

Real Life Home No.19 - Lynne of Sugar City Journal

2013-03-14T00:08:00.000-07:00

Over a year and a half ago, I featured some gorgeous snippets of Lynne's eclectic, well-curated home in a mini-real-life-home-post. At the time, she mentioned she was about to embark on some major renovations, so we decided it would be fun to share some additional views into her space after those projects were complete. Because as anyone who's ever renovated anything knows, these things take time and they pretty much take over your life! I've been anxiously awaiting the "after" photos and am really excited to share them with you here.

For those of you just tuning in, this series showcases living spaces decorated by people who are not formally-trained interior designers; people who mix new finds with antiques and secondhand pieces from Craigslist (or the like). People who have figured out, on their own, what looks and feels good in their living space, be it a free-standing home, an apartment, or in one particular case, a tower :)

Lynne used to blog at the well-loved Sugar City Journal, which she co-authored with her equally talented sister-in-law, Melissa. However, these days she is blogging in a brand new space that reflects a slightly different direction, yet is still Lynne through and through. There is a time and a season for everything in life and I am just thrilled that Lynne is now sharing her fine art skills with us, as well as all the witty anecdotes about parenting and the like {that we know and love her for}.

Note: if any of you teach art lessons in the classroom, be sure to check out Lynne's art lesson plans. She's spearheaded an art docent program in her children's school and is an excellent resource for any volunteer in the arts.

A wallpapered nook, a weathered map and a sheepskin throw keep things warm and inviting on the main level. And, oh how I love an open floor plan...

One of Lynne's favorite aspects of the renovation was replacing the aging carpet with wood floors. They look incredible here in her new, farmhouse-style kitchen. The open shelving and pot rack are my favorite details.

For those of you curious about materials, Lynne actually chose soapstone for her kitchen counters. However, if had the opportunity to choose all over again, she mentioned she would definitely go with a matte black granite or quartz. The look would be similar and her counter tops would be more durable.

A fantastic dining room, that is more multipurpose than stuffy; which I love. One time I had a formal dining room in one of my living spaces and it was rarely used. I often thought, `why didn't I make this into a studio? or an office? or a library'. Well, Lynne is already a step ahead! Her dining room is clearly used on more than one occasion.

Aaah, and the master bedroom...isn't it lovely?

When it comes to decorating, Lynne does an outstanding job mixing vintage and new finds in a way that looks both intentional, yet very natural. She blends West Elm bedding, a thrift store lamp and a fantastic DIY project (the wallpapered headboard) for an eclectic look that is entirely her own.

Another highlight of the renovation was the master bathroom. Once home to wall-to-wall carpet, this shiny and bright bathroom is now a haven for Lynne and her husband as they prepare for the day. And as a mother of 4 young children, this respite is very important.

His + hers sinks...jealous! :)

The children's rooms are always my favorite part of Lynne's home tours. She has the most incredible eye and melds youthfulness and innocence with stylish pieces {both new and vintage}, that can seamlessly grow with her children. Easily, my favorite is the adorable, red stool with white piping. Although the intricate headboard paired with the white linens is a close second...

I take that back...my favorite is this beautiful art wall :)

Seriously though, aren't these rooms fantastic? I feel incredibly inspired to create lovely spaces for my own children, on a budget--just as she's done here.

At the end of this special, real life home tour, I want to share with you one last nook in Lynne's home showcasing her favorite new piece of furniture--a dark blue, velvet sofa. An avid reader, this little space would not be complete without a stack of books (or two) close by. In fact, if you are searching for literature recommendations for both children and adults, peek at her book posts. Lynne is always introducing me to interesting titles and is very thoughtful about what she reads and shares.

Lynne, thank you for this beautiful home tour. Totally worth the wait :)

If you're interested in viewing more real life homes, peek at these little gems. Enjoy!

Real Life Home No. 18 - Annalise's 1946 San Diego Bungalow
Real Life Home No. 17 - Maria of Dreamy Whites
Real Life Home No. 16 - Chelsea's Michigan Farmhouse
Real Life Home No. 15 - Erin's Upcycled Hollywood Glam
Real Life Home No.14 - Nadia's Converted Barn in Vermont

Real Life Home No.13 - Dottie Angel's Mossy Shed

Real Life Home No.12 - Aunt Patty's sophisticated mid-century home
Real Life Home No.11 - Rubyellen of Cakies and her French-inspired flea market finds
Real Life Home No.10 - Julie's coastal home with reclaimed materials
Real Life Home No. 9 - Petra's Tower in downtown Seattle
Real Life Home No. 8 - Kayce's Nashville Home that's both Southern + sweet
Real Life Home No. 7 - Sara's colorful and eclectic Portland Home
Real Life Home No. 6 - Amy's Calming Neutrals in California
Real Life Home No. 5 - Lynne of Sugar City Journal and her whimsical details
Real Life Home No. 4 - Emily's gorgeous whites and woods in Dallas
Real Life Home No. 3 - Kirsten of Simply Grove's clean and textural Idaho home
Real Life Home No. 2 - Maria of Two Peas and a Pod and her white kitchen
Real Life Home No. 1 - My sister Cherilee's eclectic, mid-century home

Kelly Neidig Modern Landscapes

2013-03-10T23:50:00.003-07:00

Every now and then I pop onto Kelly Neidig's etsy shop, in hopes she's added more paintings...particularly those painted in a style I saw her do often before she contracted Lyme Disease. This week, I saw such a painting and my heart soared (see above). I am taking this as a sign she is healing and feeling more herself, which is wonderful news.

If you're interested in seeing one of her pieces in a real space, I did show a little peek in this post. I also mentioned her in a post about growing an original art collection on a budget awhile back. Some of you may be interested in that topic as well!

Have a wonderful week...I can't wait to show you another "Real Life Home". What a fun series this has been!

Confessions from the Laundry Room

2013-03-04T20:54:00.002-08:00

Hello! My name is Stephanie and I hate doing the laundry. In fact, today marks the first time in almost a year that I saw the bottom of my laundry sorter. Who knew it was so dirty? To celebrate this proud moment, I decided to share a few sentiments and one of my favorite laundry room setups.

Over the years, I've made several attempts at finding a solution to my laundry woes (which I imagine many of you share--at least that is what I'll tell myself!). I've purchased attractive laundry sorters, fancy linen sprays, pretty bins to hold laundry soap and beautiful potted plants to add life and vibrancy. Recently, I even hung one of my favorite paintings in the laundry room, in a last ditch effort to create an incentive to want to spend time in the laundry room. My report card would indicate that not one of my attempts was successful. I guess I see why my husband does his own laundry (not complaining!).

Currently, my laundry style is to spend one or two days doing laundry nonstop (or so it feels), dumping all the clean clothes in a big pile on the floor. Then, I sit down for an hour or so and fold, fold, fold; while my kids play around me. And then there's the struggle to actually get the clothes put away...another issue entirely! It's madness I tell you.

If you've found a solution for your family, would you mind either telling me about it, or including a link? Would love to hear your thoughts and see if I can't nip this one in the bud :)

image via here | a great laundry room featured in the Washington Post here

Baby Gray's 1st Haircut

2013-03-01T00:03:00.000-08:00

When newly married, we knew a couple with a sweet, curly-haired child--a boy with a mound of curls that his parents couldn't seem to cut. I am embarrassed to admit that I thought it was sort of weird. But, now that I have my own curly-haired son, I totally get it (this type of situation is typical of parenthood, yes?). It's so hard to cut! Especially when you hear horror stories of curls never returning once they are cut. They are just too darn cute to risk losing...

However, the time had come for my Baby Gray to receive his first haircut. We held out until he was almost 2 1/2 years old, if you can believe it. Things were really getting out of control (think: Greatest American Hero, the TV show), and being mistaken for a girl was starting to happen more frequently :) So we caved...and his sweet auntie bravely took a set of shears to his head in effort to give his locks a little more shape. Here are a few quick snapshots from the experience...can someone please stop time?!

Top 10 Style Trends for Spring

2013-02-25T00:16:00.002-08:00

Lately, I've felt subtle tinges of Spring in the air--the daffodils are starting to pop out of the ground in my front yard (reaping the benefits of fall bulb planting!) and the birds seem to chirp more excitedly than usual. And you know what? I'll take it. Even in small bursts. I just can't wait until the weather catches up and I can put aside my winter coat in favor of something a bit lighter...

I recently asked my friend, Beverly (a stylist, who I recently highlighted here), to share with you her favorite style trends for this upcoming Spring, 2013. I've listed all of Beverly's picks below, as well as a few of her suggestions in parentheses. Whether you're looking for inspiration to rework what you already have, or in the mood to purchase a couple of trendy pieces to supplement your current wardrobe, this well-curated list is bound to inspire. For more ideas on styling yourself and your home, take a peek at Bev's blog. Now, enjoy!

1. Black + White (1 or 2)

2. Shoes with Transparency (1, 2)

3. Dots! (1, 2, 3)

4. Bright Yellow (1, 2, 3, 4, 5)

5. Small bags in Bright Colors (1, 2, 3, 4)

6. Denim or Chambray Shirt (1, 2)

7. White Blazer (1, 2)

8. Tote Bags (1, 2, 3)

9. Bright Ballet Flats (1 - in pink and yellow)

10. Military Jackets (1, 2)

Thank you Bev!

Baby Shower Inspiration Board Challenge

2013-02-22T17:36:00.000-08:00

If you're a paper lover like myself, you've likely already acquainted yourself with Minted's stationery, cards, calendars, party kits, etc. But, did you know they are hosting an Inspiration Board Challenge right now? It's themed around beautiful baby showers and it looks like they are giving away over a thousand dollars in free product and straight-up cash. All you need to do is choose one of your favorite baby shower invitations from the site, and then add a handful of images that compliment your theme (a couple of my favorite boards are shown above). Since many of you are already creating beautiful boards over on Pinterest and also have your own blogs, this would be an easy way to earn a little extra spending money.

p.s. I've hosted my fair share of baby showers, so if you need a few ideas to get your wheels spinning, feel free to take a peek at a few of these. I've also included several links to baby showers on other sites that I like too. And of course, there is Pinterest...where you will likely lose yourself for awhile :)

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13

Bonne chance my friends! I hope one of you wins :)

note: this post was sponsored by Minted, although written by me entirely.

How to Dry a Bottle

2013-02-21T21:35:00.000-08:00

IKEA is a bit like H+M...you are almost always guaranteed to find something attractive for a cheap price. But, every now and again, you come across a real keeper; meaning, the quality and design of the product visibly surpass the price. For me, the tall, glass Korken bottles are just that. They are versatile (I use them for every type of gathering), inexpensive ($4 a pop) and even made in Italy (you were expecting China, right?). I've owned a half dozen for a few years now and haven't lost a single one, which further indicates their sturdiness (I thank Italy for that). In fact, on my quarterly trip to IKEA, I am always tempted to pick up a few more. The idea of a dozen all lined up in a row on a shelf just makes me happy (this kitchen would provide the ideal backdrop, yes?).

Now, the only drawback to using (and subsequently, cleaning) these bottles is the issue of how to dry them out; that narrow spout makes it quite challenging! However, I discovered a solution recently that seemed to do the trick better than anything else I've ever tried. All you need is a white, IKEA napkin--the one that comes in a pack of 100 for $3 (appropriately called "Fantastik"!). It is a 3-ply napkin and therefore, highly absorbant. Not only do these napkins do a great job wicking away moisture from the bottle's interior, but they serve as the perfect, basic dinner napkin.

Here are 5 easy steps to a clean, dry bottle:

1. Take one, white IKEA napkin and lay it flat on the counter.

2. Roll the napkin into a narrow funnel, starting at the creased corner and moving towards the opposite corner.

3. Carefully place the rolled, napkin baton through the neck, until there is an inch of napkin left at the top.

4. Fold the napkin overhang securely over the spout, so the napkin won't fall into the bottle.

5. Sit the bottle on the counter in a cool, dry, and dim place, until all the moisture is gone. Repeat with a new, clean napkin if moisture is excessive and not gone within a day or two.

images by me, Stephanie Brubaker, for stephmodo

Deluxe Jam

2013-02-19T21:40:00.000-08:00

I recently discovered the most delicious jam I've ever consumed and wanted to share the find with you! If you're like me, and esteem homemade jam and bread as one of your all-time favorite snacks, then you'll be thrilled to become acquainted with Deluxe Jam. It's better than any fancy jam at a Williams Sonoma--or Chef Shop--and certainly up there with a few homemade favorites I've purchased at outdoor markets in France (not a surprise, since they admit being inspired by classic, French recipes!). When I sampled a slew of flavors at a local gift/craft market, I found it difficult to choose one jar to bring home. Surprisingly, each flavor was exquisite and incredibly well-executed--it was a heavenly experience.

Consider yourself informed...Deluxe Jam {made here in Seattle!}, is the finest confiture in the US. And thankfully, it's not just available to lucky Seattleites popping into local farmer's markets...you can purchase jars online too!

images by me (that spiced plum is to-die-for!)

Links to Love: Sweetheart Edition

2013-02-12T08:20:00.002-08:00

It's Valentine's Day this week, as you know, so I want to share with you a few tidbits that are somewhat related to this amorous holiday. So go ahead and mull them over while you consider how you're going to make those heart-shaped pancakes without a mold :)

Have you heard about the Garage Gallery? It's a now-online art gallery offering original art that started in...you guessed it...a garage. The site offers original art at somewhat affordable prices (much of it is still out of my league, but gorgeous nonetheless) and includes paintings, photography, drawings and mixed media. Note: the piece above is being offered there...I love it!

The husband and I are in discussion about taking on this 21-day challenge to never use our iPhones in the presence of others, after being inspired by this article. What better way to show your love than by being attentive, interested and polite? :)

Send a love note...anonymously.

Best gifts for Valentine's Day? Massages, treats, food, experiences--all at a discount. I know there are copycat sites out there, but Groupon is still my favorite place to score great deals and great gifts.

I've been thinking a lot about teaching my children responsibility for the past several months, as I feel it essential to preparing them for the real world. Right now, I feel like I am underperforming in this category, so I've been digging in and doing a little research. This article by Suze Orman seems spot-on and I'm considering implementing a few of her points. I anticipate positive changes...if any of you have experience with this issue, please share your thoughts!

Real Life Home No. 19 - Artist Katherine Sandoz

2013-02-07T00:58:00.001-08:00

A few years ago, my dear friend Rachel, popped into a boutique in Savannah, Georgia called The Paris Market. Inside, she discovered many lovely things, particularly the stunning, abstract paintings by local artist, Katherine Sandoz (a lovely name for an artist, don't you think?). Lucky for us all, she then shared the find on her blog shortly thereafter. I was smitten. It's not often that art speaks to you in such a way, so I felt gratitude for this rare moment.

So today, it with much delight that I give you a little peek into her "real life home"--a 1930's Craftsman style bungalow she shares with her husband, whom she affectionately refers to as "Horace", their two sons and two dogs. I'll also share a few images of her studio (pictured above), a red barn built by her husband. It's so fun to see where the magic happens!

For those of you just tuning in, this original series showcases living spaces decorated by people who are not formally-trained interior designers; people who mix new finds with antiques and secondhand pieces from Craigslist (or the like). People who have figured out, on their own, what looks and feels good in their living space; be it a free-standing home, an apartment, or in one particular case, a tower :)

A little more about Katherine and her family before we get going with this tour into her home...

Katherine describes herself as a painter, illustrator, maker and visual strategist. She not only teachers workshops in Provence, France with SCAD, but she also contributes to the local art scene as well (one such example here). Katherine is cheered on by her husband and two young sons. Her husband, "a hunter, fisher and outdoorsman" is a partner in an environmental consulting firm called Resource + Land Consultants. Katherine describes her boys as being "intimately familiar with pencils, brushes, bows and arrows". If you follow her on instagram, you'll see confirmation that this is indeed true!

It seems apropos to begin this tour with an image of some of Katherine's personal art, woven perfectly into the wall, despite the fuse box :) You've got to love all the charm and character that comes with homes built in the 30's! (I live in one myself so I am familiar with this sort of thing!). The painting in the bottom, left corner is by Jenny Vorwaller; coincidentally, a friend of mine here in Seattle as well. The other two works are by Katherine's friend, Jay Crider.

For many of us, it's difficult to imagine warm weather right now, but if you've ever visited the South in the summer, you know that an indoor porch with sun-shielding curtains is a welcomed respite for every southern belle. Katherine made the neutral, textured curtains herself, as well as the cushion on the box storage. The side table was a yard sale find, which she promptly repainted and updated with an Anthropologie pull. The rocking chair was a gift from her husband, which she loves. He picked it up at a mom and pop store in Nahunta, Georgia.

Sweet curtains sewn by Katherine and matching containers of utensils. I can almost feel the breeze coming through that window.

A glimpse into her boys' bedroom...I love how neat and minimal it is. I'm having total kid-bedroom-envy :) The book holder is actually an old postcard stand Katherine procured from the curb downtown. One woman's trash is another woman's treasure! Doesn't the book collection look fantastic? Artists always seem to have the most enviable book collections.

One last image from her kitchen where old citronella candle holders now house pens, pencils and of course, paint brushes.

There are a few details about this image that I can appreciate...first, the peek at the lovely art in the dining room. It's hung in such a classic way. Also, the child's bath towel hanging on the bathroom door; a simple reminder of what daily life is all about! And last, but not least, the library in the bathroom.

I'm jealous.

Pretty towels, hardware and other charming details illuminate the bathroom. I imagine this to be a cheerful place to begin one's day. There is something about color against white that feels fresh and joyful.

In the living room, we are starting to see Horace's hobbies more apparent--both in hunting and woodworking (he built the bookcases you see above and below). Katherine assures me they always consume their harvest at home and are not wasteful with their bounty. If you allow your eyes to stay awhile on the photo below, you'll see a large, original painting by Katherine in the dining area. So dramatic! She describes her style as having a "huntsman meets artist" vibe and I do believe this image sums that up nicely :)

The bungalow feels grand and rather expansive to me as I sort through Katherine's images, but she tells me it is only 1400 square feet. I'm convinced the 1930's was a time of efficient floor plans, as the home where we live now was built at the same time. It's small, but efficient with space. The only downside is a lack of storage, which is what Katherine deals with as well. Gratefully, they put their beautiful, red barn to good use as it houses both a studio and a "man cave". Win-win.

Tip toe down the hallway and you see the master bedroom. The statement piece of that space, a Mary Hartman painting, reminds me of this post. The closeup of the bathroom vanity and sink confirms my suspicion that this room is a light-filled, happy little corner of the home (please note this particular image was taken by Tobia Makover).

These are probably my favorite photos of all, which is why I saved them for the end of this post. I love seeing where Katherine paints and is otherwise creatively inspired. The few pieces I have hanging in my home bring me so much joy on a daily basis, so it's incredibly rewarding for me to catch a glimpse into this intimate part of her life--her studio.

Outside her studio is a structure called the "hen house"; however, it does not house hens :) Rather, it was built by Horace last year for an art fair. Now, it serves as an outdoor gallery space, picnic spot, and gardening shed. It is all so dreamy, yes? Together, all these personal elements enhance the beauty and peace I find in her abstract works. Katherine has created a beautiful life for herself and her family--one that is real and truly reflective of who they are as individuals. I am so grateful she allowed me to share these personal images of her home with you, dear readers.

If you'd like to peek at some more "real life homes", please enjoy these previous posts. They are all quite different from each other, but all lovely in their own, real way.

Real Life Home No. 18 - Annalise Neil's San Diego Bungalow
Real Life Home No. 17 - Maria of Dreamy Whites
Real Life Home No. 16 - Chelsea's Michigan Farmhouse
Real Life Home No. 15 - Erin's Upcycled Hollywood Glam
Real Life Home No.14 - Nadia's Converted Barn in Vermont

Real Life Home No.13 - Dottie Angel's Mossy Shed

All images by Savannah, Georgia photographer, Joshua Branstetter

Planning for a Sweet Valentine's Day

2013-02-06T00:33:00.003-08:00

Like many of you, I am beginning to think about Valentine's Day...one of my favorite holidays to be sure. I love the tradition of making and delivering valentines, eating treats and basically giving yourself the perfect excuse to express your love, admiration and appreciation to others.

This year, I am trying to take a more realistic approach to valentine card preparations. Instead of assuming my children have the capacity and interest in handmaking 30+ valentines, I am outsourcing their classroom valentines to Minted (thank you!), which will then leave room for us to enjoy a stress-free handmade valentine session for cousins, grandparents, etc. These types of projects always seem to take longer than I anticipate.

They each chose their own card style, image, color, etc., which they really appreciated. I think it made them feel sort of grown up :) It was interesting, from a parental perspective, to see how different their styles were from each other, even when it comes to stationery.

When they arrived in the mail yesterday, they were so excited to see them in print. More than once my youngest daughter has asked when we can "color" the valentines. These sweetly-sized cards also come with a roll of washi tape for securing. Such a nice detail!

A big batch of chocolate cupcakes with ganache and French gray sea salt may also be order...I cannot think of a friend who wouldn't love one of these decadent cakes.

If cupcakes aren't your thing, perhaps baking up a pie or tart to share would be more up your alley. You can find the pie boxes in my shop and a simple DIY tutorial on making the watercolor hearts right here!

With all the restrictions on school parties these days, it might be fun to throw your own Valentine-themed fête after school. If you're feeling like simplifying and outsourcing the decor, you might appreciate one of the party kits from Minted. They look adorable.

Otherwise, check out the sweet, little "sock hop" featured below. I am loving the pom pom heart and lip cookies. Everyone between the age of 2 and 80 would probably enjoy something like this, making it a super versatile theme.

Last year I spotted heart-shaped junior mints at our local drugstore. Could it be, I wondered? Normally candy isn't my thing at all, but for some reason I looooove frozen junior mints. So I wrapped up these novelty junior mints in kraft brown butcher paper and adorned them with mini-garlands of watercolored hearts I made. Then, I placed them in the freezer until it was gift-giving time. Since they were wrapped up so pretty, I didn't dare try to sneak into them. This was both a good and a bad thing!

One of my bowls, from West Elm, makes the ideal vessel for some little watercolored hearts. I like just having it on the coffee table or kitchen counter for simple, decorative purposes.

And last, but not least, I've been meaning to make one of these two, simple crafts with my kids for awhile now. They appear to be very simple, useful and unique!

candy + tulip bouquet in a vase | bookmark valentines

What fun projects do you have planned for Valentine's Day? I'd love to hear about your ideas too!

Stylish, Vintage-Inspired Dresses for $20

2013-02-01T10:48:00.003-08:00

I am head over heels for these adorable, vintage-inspired dresses from Kayce Hughes--now on sale for just $20 each (down from $80!). This is the perfect time to stock up on Easter dresses for your girlies. I'm not-so-secretly wishing they came in mommy sizes too. I would totally buy a matching dress for myself! This mega sale ends on Sunday and sizes are going fast at these prices so snatch 'em up while you can...

girls | boys | baby | women's

images via Kayce Hughes

Art Party

2013-01-30T00:27:00.000-08:00

If you've ever taken a peek at the birthday parties I've planned for my kiddos, you'd notice a few subtle (and perhaps not-so-subtle) similarities:

1. Back-to-back winter birthdays (December, January, February). What can I say? Springtime is often a magical time of year!

2. We always have themes that celebrate something in which my child is interested (i.e, boats, outer space), or that means a lot to them (matryoshka dolls from her cousin, Paris). They choose their own themes, with me chiming in with a few suggestions only if they are stumped on ideas. Some are more challenging to pull off than others (this year my youngest daughter asked for a Hello Kitty party...yikes!), but they are all fun in their own way.

3. The party budget maximum is $125 (usually hovering around $100) and includes food, drinks, treats, decor, favors, activities, invitations, etc. We will not go broke over our children's birthdays and the dollar aisle is our friend! I reuse a simple, white tablecloth over and over, which makes for a neutral palette and less expense. Sometimes I spend more on special details (Babar party), and then spend less in other areas. I do my best to put to use what I already have on hand (which is why you sometimes see repeats in some of the basic details like dishes, glassware, etc.). Somehow it all evens out!

Most recently, my oldest daughter asked for an Art Party. She is very creative and enjoys making all sorts of things when she can tear herself away from reading :) This has been the case her entire life thus far, and we were happy to celebrate this part of her personality. The art history major in me was secretly thrilled, I confess.

I'll never forget a particular morning in Cambridge, Massachusetts about 9 years ago. I took my daughter, then 2, to Harvard's Fogg Museum. I strolled her through the galleries, pausing every now and again to admire a certain piece. I remember being wrapped up in a particular work momentarily, only to be interrupted by my toddler shouting "van Gogh, van Gogh!". Astonished, I looked in the direction she was pointing and saw one of Vincent van Gogh's self portraits two rooms down. I beamed (remember the art history gig?!) as all first-time mothers do when their child surprises them with a tidbit of knowledge. Who knew that bargain book from Barnes and Noble sitting on the coffee table resonated?

Since her birthday is only a week and a half into the new year, I find it always catches me off guard (didn't I just take down the Christmas decorations?). There have been years when I planned ahead, but this was not one of them. I had just a week to plan her Art Party, so everything else sort of went on the back burner while I worked on the details. One thing I've learned about planning kids' birthday parties on a reasonable budget is that spending less means more work for the party planner. But it's fun work, to be sure, and very satisfying as well. We had a great time planning the details together along the way; although I did leave a few things as a surprise until the end, which was really fun!

Invitations had to be simple, but special. I purchased pre-cut, flat cards and envelopes at Paper Source; as well as a paint brush stamp at a local rubber stamp shop in Seattle. I am not a computer whizz in any sense, but I somehow managed to pull something together in Word; which means anyone can do this :) In my dreams I navigate Illustrator and Photoshop smoothly; it's probably time for one of Alma's classes...

My daughter is officially a "tween" now (I need a support group for this!), which is an interesting time for all of us. She is still a child, but also wants to spread her wings and feel grownup. I am not sure if she will continue letting me plan these parties for her, so I am savoring the moments while I can.

This year, I knew that she and her friends would appreciate a nice lunch, so I served them one of my daughter's favorite soups (a hearty corn chowder), some crusty bread and lemonade; with lemon pudding cakes as appetizers. One could say we reinvented the four food groups that morning--dessert 1, dessert 2, carbs and sugary drinks (we certainly set the day apart!). With Taylor Swift on Pandora in the background, the girls giggled and chatted throughout the meal.

Afterwards, my friend Sarah, who is also a professional painter, was kind enough to give the girls a basic art lesson with some beautiful oil pastels, gifted to my daughter. It was fun to watch some of them really dig in and take the experience seriously. When it became clear that some had lost interest, we switched things up and moved into singing, cupcakes, macarons and the opening of gifts (made silly by her father's antics). Before we knew it, time was up and we still hadn't finished so we frantically made phone calls and texts to parents asking for a slightly later pick up time. I learned that this is the age they can handle the excitement of a party more than an hour and a half long (new territory for us). Two hours for tweens seemed perfect.

Undoubtedly, the favorite detail was the macaron paint palette. The girls kept commenting on it the throughout the party (what are macarons? what flavor is that? when can we eat them? I call the pink one!). This focal point was put together by propping a wooden paint palette (purchased from a local artists supply shop for $6) atop a ceramic pedastal from an old cake stand of mine. I adhered the macarons to the palette with a dollop of cupcake frosting, to avoid a slip 'n' slide effect.

In order to achieve the look of a true paint palette, I knew it needed different shades. With my youngest daughter in tow, we visited two bakeries in Seattle that carry macarons--one that consistenly creates pastel macarons and one that typically makes more intensely-colored macarons. Together they made a great combination. My friend Jenny, also a professional painter, lent me a paint brush from her studio, to accompany the "paints". She also allowed me to use one of her retired paint palettes, which ended up as a tray for the cupcakes. I raised it up a little from the table by using a large ramekin. Clearly we were all about improvisation!

The party favors at E's Art Party were quite simple--small, pillow boxes adorned with vintage Mary Cassatt postage stamps. Inside we placed modeling clay in hues that matched those on Jenny's paint palette. I found the hues from Cernit more preferable, but the name "Sculpey" awfully endearing :)

I picked up these loose cards and envelopes at a major discount at a local stationer's sale I found out about through paper guru, Lyndsey. I think the set was only a dollar or two; which meant there was a little left over for vintage art-related stamps on ebay (Calder and Albers--a snazzy duo, yes?). Together they created the perfect thank-you notes for my daughter's art party. In order to make sure I remembered this last detail to give thanks, I assembled these ahead of time so my daughter could easily mail them out after the party.

My daughter had a great time at her Art Party and is already mulling over next year's theme. I am simply grateful she is interested in another homespun party! These parties end up being such a fun memory for us both and I am excited to create more with all of my children. Until next time...

all images by Stephanie Brubaker for stephmodo

A Get Well Quick Kit

2013-01-29T00:13:00.002-08:00

Is it me, or does everyone seem to be coming down with something lately? I feel like the words "flu", "virus", and "cough" are becoming as commonplace as "rain" and "overcast" around here. Is it the same where you live, I wonder? Well, I say this situation calls for some intervention in the form of a "get well quick kit". All you need are the following cheerful and useful supplies:

Choose a magazine you think they would enjoy (Real Simple, Living, People, etc.). It could be one you purchase, or one you receive with your regular subscription. When it comes to bagged herbal tea, I really like Stash--a company based out of Portland (Mango Passionfruit and Licorice Spice are my favorites); but honestly, anything yummy you have in your cupboard will be great! Mugs can be procured from your kitchen cupboard, Target, a thrift store, or wherever else. Keep in mind this kit is not meant to be spendy, but rather, thoughtful.

Travel size packages of facial tissue come in handy too---I like these new designs from Kleenex. A few vitamins can't hurt either (around here Vitamin D is the supplement of choice). A handwritten note is also a heartwarming addition to the kit--even if it you write on the back of your grocery list! Truly, it's the thought that counts. After you've assembled your kit, package it up in a simple, kraft brown gift bag and place it on your friend's porch. Being remembered is a wonderful pick-me-up and surely you will make his/her day.

To all of you who aren't well right now, I hope you "get well quick"! Hang in there~

image by me

Links to Love

2013-01-23T22:53:00.000-08:00

So much to share, so little time. Why wait until Friday? Here are some links to help you get through the day with a smile on your face, a warm feeling in your heart and a few things in that shopping bag :)

Reading the ad-free magazine, "Seeing the Everyday" always sheds a more positive, rose-colored tint onto the parts of life that seem mundane on surface level. I appreciate how they elevate the everyday, by encouraging us through stories written by people like you and me. I am particularly impressed with this month's theme focusing on disabilities--both in children and adults--one that I think many of you will appreciate. View more here.

A pop-up orchestra in Spain that gave me chills, it was so beautiful!

I am intrigued by my friend Christine's new book, Minimalist Parenting. Based on how much I like her and the title of the book alone, I am thinking this will be a good read (book club anyone?). Here is the fun trailer (great job Karen Walrond!). Do any of those images look familiar to you?

I've been trying to get the last of our pictures up on the walls this week...it's taken awhile since we have less space. But it cannot be dragged out any longer! And did you know that these are the best nails for hanging frames/art on the wall? You can also find them at Michaels and your local framer.

Melissa asked me to share a kitchen tip over on her blog, Lulu the Baker. You should see my countertops this week...laden with crazy amounts of fruit.

If you live near a Crewcuts store, you may want to pop in for a visit. All sale items are an additional 50% off, which makes their clothing actually affordable!

Many thanks if you contributed to making our Houzz Tour of La Maisonnette du Coteau the 18th most bookmarked on the site. Merci beaucoup! Such an honor.

Seven Rules of Life

2013-01-22T23:48:00.000-08:00

In case you haven't seen "The 7 Rules of Life" floating around on Facebook...

These are fantastic reminders and I simply couldn't resist sharing here. I've outlined them below, with a few personal notes added in parentheses. I personally believe that #1 is the most difficult. What do you guys think?

1. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

2. What others think of you is none of your business (and may I add, 'not worth your precious mental energy').

3. Time heals almost everything. Give it time.

4. Don't compare your life to others and don't judge them. You have no idea what their journey is all about (more on this here).

5. Stop thinking too much. It's alright to not know the answers. They will come to you when you least expect it (most likely when meditating/praying, on a walk, in the shower, or driving your car).

6. No one is in charge of your happiness, except you (this is a tough one as the "victim trap" is ever so tantalizing...but alas this rule is true I believe!).

7. Smile. You don't own all the problems in the world :)

If anyone knows the source, please share. I have not been able to locate an original source; image by me, Stephanie Brubaker

Red Lips

2013-01-20T22:37:00.001-08:00

Almost five years ago, I began reading Stephanie Nielsen's blog. What I remember most about my first impression is how glamorous she made stay-at-home-motherhood look. I found Steph's writing and images very honest, genuine and refreshing, so I came back for more. I started noticing her ever present red lips and pretty, vintage dresses. Since I usually hang around home in my pajamas (awesome bed head included), I remember being fascinated with her look and thinking, "I could never get away with red lipstick...but she sure looks fantastic!".

Fast forward about 4 years...I am attending Mighty Summit. My lovely roommate was Christine Koh (another genuine, fantastic, down-to-earth kind of gal), who also donned red lips during most of the summit. Since I'd spent the last few years warming up to the idea of red lips (I have a history of being a late adopter...surprised?), I had to ask. "May I try on your red lipstick?". Of course, Christine replied, "of course" and I bravely spread her Chanel stick across my lips. And that, my friends, was the beginning of my new love affair with red lipstick.

Since red lips are more of a statement than your average, nude lipstick, I highly recommend bringing a friend along while you scope the makeup counters at your local Sephora or department store. It's hard to feel like any store associate will truly be honest with you. Be sure to not put anything on your lips that day, besides a clear gloss for moisture (more tips about wearing red lipstick here).

If you are looking for a red lipstick with warm undertones, I was guided to the following:

Laura Mercier - Red Amour - considered a moisture-rich, "classic, neutral red".

Nars - Red Square - a warm, orange-red with a matte finish. Rumor has it that it was also recommended by Jenna Lyons.

Bobbi Brown - Old Hollywood - one site recommended this color for those with warm skin undertones and light-colored hair. Bobbi calls it a "bright, cherry red". Made the Top 5 Red Lipstick lineup here.

You may also be interested in reading this basic tutorial about "how to wear red lipstick". It's perfect for red lipstick virgins like myself and offers great tips. And one other note, if you want to wear red lipstick into public, but are feeling a little unsure about doing so, try wearing it around the house first (or during an evening when you are staying in). Sometimes it just takes a little time to get used to new things, even if it's something you are actively pursuing.

If you have any lip color recs or other tips, please chime in! I loved all your comments on this other makeup post. Did you know I took you up on a few of your recommendations?

image of the red lipstick I ended up going with...