stephmodo

How to Wear Scarves {Spring Edition}

2012-05-20T22:35:00.004-07:00

May is the perfect time of year to start accessorizing with light, gauzy scarves. The mornings start out crisp (scarf on)...the afternoons are full of warmth (scarf placed in or tied to handbag)...and then the evening chill sets in (scarf back on). Scarves are also perfect for those who are going in and out of over-air-conditioned-made-for-men-in-suits kind of environments all day long!

Now I know that adding a scarf here and there can feel a little tricky if you haven't accessorized with them before. In fact, adding anything "new" to your daily uniform can feel a little out-of-the-box. But I promise it's a fun shift and you'll be happy you shook things up a bit. If you're still feeling a bit shy about the whole idea, check out this fabulous video showing 25 ways to wear a scarf (I mentioned it last Fall too) or the fantastic video below via Nordstrom--both are fabulous.

As further motivation I've collected my favorite scarves on the web. You really just need one to get started--and then wear it like crazy!

orange butterfly scarf | teal havana winds scarf | butterfly cotton scarf | coral butterfly abstract scarf

molly floral scarf | peacock/ikat scarf | exotic silk scarf | citron floral scarf | fuchsia floral scarf

image 1 - Marie Claire Idées / image 2 - Mango / image 3 of Giovanna Battaglia - The National / image 4 - fabsugar

Links to Love: a Favorite Bra, Missing Childhood + Passion Fruit

2012-05-17T22:19:00.000-07:00

Kayce made that fabulous fuchsia chandelier from an Ikea fixture and paper bowls. No joke! Tutorial here.

Attention all mothers of girls age 3 - 18...Forever 21 is the best source for cute, inexpensive hair accessories. Cheaper (and more stylish) than anything at Target, I am thrilled with the discovery. Barrettes for $1, headbands for $2-4, etc. Hair drama all around has decreased in our household :)

How to Miss a Childhood - This article made me think about my phone habits and how I need to change a few things. If you're a mother, you really need to read this article. I'm so glad I did.

An edited list of my favorite dessert recipes with passion fruit - one of my favorite ingredients ever.

I love Lesley's Tinkerbell Fairy Princess Party - I know more than one gal who would love a similar party! I'm particularly keen on her ingenious "balloons".

Last, but not least, my new favorite bra - after nursing 4 kiddos this bra is a miracle (I bought it in white and use the white straps). I love it! What's your favorite? I need to stock up on a few more...

image 1 - Lesley Colvin / Kensington Blue Photography | image 2 - me | image 3 - Kayce Hughes

The Tooth Fairy

2012-05-16T23:10:00.002-07:00

I don't know what it is about our location, but typically the tooth fairy is late to arrive. She is always getting caught in a storm in the Midwest and often arrives 1-2 days after the tooth is lost. I've gently suggested she set an alarm on her phone for 11 p.m. next time and am hoping that does the trick (pending no storms of course). Does this happen to any of you? :)

In preparation for her next, highly-anticipated arrival, I am currently in the market for a tooth fairy pillow for my oldest son. He's recently had to borrow his sisters matryoshka tooth fairy pillow and this wasn't his favorite. I decided to take a peek at some Etsyfare and thankfully found a handful of great options after much searching; in fact, I sifted through almost one hundred pages of product! I hope these recommendations save you a good chunk of time.

Jumpstarting Personal Creativity

2012-05-15T23:51:00.000-07:00

One morning last week I awoke to sunshine...a welcomed surprise. I also awoke to feeling blah. Uninspired. You know the drill. I decided to take a walk down near the market and take in the sights and sounds--tourists, street performers, meter maids, noisy trucks and color. Lots of it! It was just what the doctor ordered. Then last night I was asked to present some thoughts on creativity to a group of women. I put together a list of suggestions to jumpstart creativity. My recent outing to the market came to mind, as well as many other ideas. I thought I'd share them here with you as well, in case you were in need of a gentle nudge today :) Feel free to add your own thoughts too.

Top 10 Ways to Jumpstart Personal Creativity

1. Clear the clutter - this will free up space in your mind--space that can be better allocated to the creation of something that will enrich your life. Try to imagine living with only things you need and love and then work towards donating, selling or throwing out the excess. Now this is an ongoing process and if you're like me, you'll never quite be fully on top of it; but if it's something that is on your radar at least, then you'll notice differences in your mental clarity as you go about doing with less. Be mindful of consumption too.

2. Read a book or magazine that you find interesting in some way. Pick a subject, any subject (I love perusing cookbooks...). Using our minds in a variety of ways churns the creativity within us and increases our well of ideas.

3. Start an inspiration binder, which is basically a large, white binder from Office Max and some clear page protectors. Whenever you find something in a magazine or catalog that you like for some reason, tear it and put it in your inspiration binder. As you build this collection, you'll find that thinking creatively comes more naturally.

4. Take inventory of what you already have and figure out a way to use it. Perhaps you'll have to supplement with a couple of inexpensive supplies, but the thrill of figuring out how to use what you already have is not to be missed!

5. Organize a craft night with a group of women. Bring over that project you've been meaning to finish forever and a plate of treats. You'll find that socializing while creating will not only give you a great sense of accomplishment, but will allow you to peek at other creative projects too.

6. Cruise your favorite blogs + Pinterest for ideas and subjects that interest you. Maybe something you see will spark a few of your own ideas (above is a fun party idea I found last night via here).

7. Make time in your day to be creative--whether it's nap time after the kids are in bed or early in the morning. Schedule it in like you would a doctor's appointment and have a few projects in mind that interest you.

8. If you have any personal issues in your life that are clouding your thoughts and subsequently your creativity, try to work through them in a healthy way. It's very difficult to channel creativity when emotional issues are at the surface.

9. Get out of the house. Shut off the computer. Turn off your phone. Walk, look, smell, breathe. Go explore a neighborhood or take a long walk. Experience a change of scenery...it'll do wonders!

10. Observe nature. Look at the color schemes around you. Examine texture. I cannot think of any other setting that is more inspiring than that of pure nature.

What do you have to add to the list? What do you find helps spark your creativity after a lull?

image 1, 2, 4 - me / image 3 - Icing Designs

Guacamole

2012-05-15T15:06:00.001-07:00

Several years ago I picked up a cookbook at my mother's home about authentic Mexican cooking and started perusing its pages. While I cannot remember the name of the book, I do remember the impression I had--what I thought was traditional Mexican cuisine was actually watered-down Mexican cuisine! It was eye-opening to become more familiar with unique ingredients (hello Jicama!), frequently-used produce (limes, limes and more limes) and interesting recipes associated with various regions.

Today over at Cafe Zupas I am sharing my recipe for guacamole, inspired by this experience and my love for Mexican food. In fact, whenever I'm traveling abroad, the first thing I crave upon returning is good, fresh, Mexican food. So grab a bag of good tortilla chips, a lawn chair and a cool drink and enjoy some great guacamole!

images by me

DIY Packaging: Gussied Up Earrings with Chiyogami

2012-05-13T23:03:00.001-07:00

Have you ever spotted a cute pair of earrings you wanted to gift a friend, but hesitated purchasing them because the earring card was so tacky? Well, here is a quick solution to beautify that pretty pair of studs...or dangly earrings...or whatever (really, anything but hoops will do). Keep in mind you don't have to be "crafty" per se to make good use of this easy DIY. I don't consider myself particularly crafty (just ask Marie about my spider card at her Halloween crafting event last year!), and I don't enjoy complicated projects. I promise this is really simple and requires just ten minutes of your time.

All you need are a few supplies...a tiny hole punch (1/8"), a jewelry box with the squishy white padding inside (it actually makes a perfect "bed") and some pretty Japanese Chiyogami paper. You can find this type of paper on Etsy, Paper Source (probably my favorite source) and on Ebay. A little ribbon from Joann Fabric (the inexpensive 50-cent rolls are just fine) is a nice touch as well.

Take your paper and cut it to a size that fits nicely in the jewelry box. You can tear it for a more textured look or use a paper cutter for clean lines. I've experimented with craft punches, like the large scallop circle below, and they are a bit hit and miss. Sometimes the texture of the chiyogami paper makes for a messy cut, but sometimes you do get lucky. If it's a new punch and still nice and sharp, you'll probably have better luck.

Next, remove the earrings from the plastic card and place them on top of the paper to get an idea where they will situate best. No need to measure or anything, just eye it. Use your 1/8" hole punch to make clean holes in the chiyogami paper and then put the earrings right on through. Clasp the back to the actual earring as tight as you can so the earrings stay put. That's it!

If you're looking for a good source for cute, affordable earrings, try the jewelry section in Nordstrom's Brass Plum department. I recently found several cute styles of earrings for $10 or less. Some of the styles I like are available online, but you'll definitely find more selection in person. Vintage earrings would also be fun to repurpose in this way so keep your eyes peeled at your local thrift store, at tag sales or on Etsy as well.

Enjoy!

images by me

Happy Mothering Day

2012-05-13T07:59:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I passed a local church with a sign out front indicating that today's sermon was to be on the subject of "mothering". I started thinking about how I wished today was actually deemed "Mothering Day" instead of "Mother's Day". Even if someone isn't a biological mother per se, she still has the ability to mother other people who desperately need that kind of influence in their lives. I know women who are well into their 70's and 80's who mother grown women by sharing their wisdom and building confidence through praise. I know women who mother their nieces and nephews all Summer long while parents work. I know women who mother foster children or participate in a Big Brother/Big Sister type program. I know women who mother little ones in church on Sunday so that parents can attend classes and feel spiritual enlightenment. You see there are many forms of mothering and they are all needed, appreciated and beautiful.

So Happy Mothering Day to You and Yours!

xoxo

image by me - love those peonies that are popping up finally!

Links to Love: Including Ombre Gift Wrap + Painted Upholstery

2012-05-09T22:36:00.002-07:00

I have so many links to share with you this week, I cannot wait until tomorrow! I hope you are all having a good week--one full of self-discovery and joy in the little things (two things at the top of my thoughts lately).

A helpful post for anyone desiring better photographs for their etsy shop.

Ombre, fringe gift wrap. Total awesomeness.

Renee and Jeremy - fun cover songs & "kid music" that isn't annoying. A personal favorite is Daydream Believer--a song on my very first cassette tape. I'll never forget the plastic orange case I picked up at the Amazing Store in Bloomfield, Connecticut. Good times.

Were you one of the 3 winners of the Minted Giveaway?

If you're facing an unattractive kitchen, there is hope. Check out this fantastic kitchen before and after (via Dreamy Whites).

Painting upholstery to save money? Yup. It can be done.

I haven't missed my long locks for awhile; but this pretty braided updo on the cover of a recent Madewell catalog has me longing for an extra ten inches. Rubi probably knows how to do this!

Names for a Boy

2012-05-08T05:00:00.000-07:00

Naming our fourth child, a baby boy, was an arduous process. You would think, that after naming 3 other children, we would be considered experts by some at this baby-naming business. In fact, we were in far worse shape than many first-time parents, who usually have names picked out just after the 5-month ultrasound, or at the very least by the time they entered the hospital to give birth! In retrospect, we probably waited until the last minute because we were so heavily focused on surviving the pregnancy. But in any case, it made for some serious panic!

When it came to looking for a name, we went about it the usual way. We hit a large bookstore and perused every baby name book on the shelf. We looked online at various websites. We even looked at family geneology charts trying to find something that felt right to both of us; but alas we came up dry on all accounts. If I liked a name, he didn't. If he liked a name, I didn't. And so on and so forth.

Finally, in a stroke of brilliance, my husband suggested I write a post asking you all to help us choose a name. Boy, were there a lot of suggestions (in fact, we chose one of them!). In order to help those of you struggling to name your baby boy, I've organized all of the reader suggestions here--all 100 of them. This is truly an incredible list. Well done, my friends!

Top Names for a Boy

1. Oliver
2. Henry
3. James
4. Luke
5. Finn
6. Jack
7. Benjamin
8. Grant
9. Gabriel
10. Owen
11. Asher
12. Lucas
13. August
14. Elliott
15. Mason
16. Max
17. Nathan
18. Peter
19. Charlie
20. Emmett
21. Gus
22. Jasper
23. Levi
24. Liam
25. Noah
26. Thomas
27. Aiden
28. Alexander
29. Andrew
30. Charles
31. Christopher
32. Cooper
33. Daniel
34. Elias
35. Ethan
36. George
37. Graham
38. Grayson
39. Harper
40. Isaac
41. Jude
42. Julian
43. Logan
44. Micah
45. Miles
46. Milo
47. Oscar
48. Parker
49. Quinn
50. Ryan
51. Samuel
52. William
53. Aaron
54. Abraham
55. Adam
56. Adrian
57. Anders
58. Archie
59. Caleb
60. Calvin
61. Cole
62. Colin
63. Dexter
64. Edward
65. Gavin
66. Gray* :)
67. Harrison
68. Hayden
69. Henri
70. Hudson
71. Hugo
72. Hunter
73. Ian
74. Jackson
75. Jacob
76. Jake
77. Jeremiah
78. Joshua
79. Keaton
80. Kellan
81. Landon
82. Leo
83. Lincoln
84. Michael
85. Myles (different spelling of "Miles")
86. Patrick
87. Paul
88. Phineas
89. Roman
90. Simon
91. Stefan
92. Stephen
93. Stuart
94. Tanner
95. Van
96. Wesley
97. Zachary
98. Aidan
99. Aksel
100. Alistair

all images by Rebecca Mudrick Photography

Welcome Linda Donohue Modern Landscape Paintings

2012-05-07T23:00:00.000-07:00

You know I always love to share affordable art finds with you here and today I'd like to introduce you to Linda Donohue, an abstract landscape painter and furniture designer who is now a sponsor of my blog. Linda hails from the charming town of Petaluma, an antique mecca just north of San Francisco. In fact, both of my antique cast iron pans were purchased in that town almost a decade ago. If you're in the area, take a day trip!

Linda's paintings are ready-to-hang so there's no need to spend a few hundred dollars on a fancy frame. The wrapped canvases look very polished on the wall and speak for themselves. This is a wonderful opportunity to treat yourself to a little something for Mother's Day (I'm a big fan of collecting little pieces of original art on holidays) or just because your wall is screaming for something interesting to grace its empty space. Linda's paintings come in all shapes and sizes so there is something for every budget.

On a side note, you may be interested to know that Linda always dreamed of being a horse trainer as a child--hence the handful of horse paintings. Also, some of her paintings have been featured in Better Homes and Gardens and HGTV's Secrets of a Stylist show.

You can explore more of Linda's artwork in her etsy shop. Enjoy!

Hotel d'Hallwyl + other Fantastic Lodging Options in Paris

2012-05-06T22:00:00.000-07:00

Tonight my husband arrived home from a 10-day trip to France (if you hear any "hallelujahs, they're comin' from my house!). He and a friend split to Beynac to check up on La Maisonnette and prep her for the busy season ahead. This same friend helped Ben with most of the laborious gutting of the cottage at the beginning of the renovation and showing him the finished product just needed to happen. What a rewarding experience to see the fruits of one's labor! It was so fun to watch my husband unpack and hear about his trip--new places he and his friend discovered, projects they accomplished at the house, villagers they met up with, castles and caves they discovered, etc. But, oh my am I glad that he is home...on so many levels :) It's a true blessing.

So, a few weeks ago, when he was trying to figure out where he and his buddy would stay in Paris on their way back from the Dordogne, we tossed several options back and forth. Really what it came down to was this:

1. Paris hotels are super expensive (especially if you're used to Holiday-Express-prices like us). It's just reality in a big, beautiful, popular city like the City of Light. There have been several occasions where our family has tried to save money on lodging and we stayed in cheap hotels in sketchy neighborhoods. I will spare you the details, but suffice it to say our experiences were dismal at best. So accept the reality of the Parisian hotel scene...plan for it in your budget...and then enjoy it.

2. The good hotels--the ones that nicely balance price, location and style--book quickly (one such hotel is Hotel de Petit Moulin). So do not wait to make your Parisian hotel reservations two weeks prior to your trip. Try to book your hotel as soon as your airline tickets are booked--ideally 4-6 months ahead. If you'd like additional recommendations, read this post on affordable hotels in Paris.

3. If you plan on staying in one location for at least 3 nights, utilize Air BnB (this is a great site for anywhere in the world, not just Paris). You'll enjoy a more local experience and save a few euros too.

4. If your trip is hovering around 7 days, then renting a nice apartment is an excellent choice for lodging. You'll spend the same or less on your Parisian apartment rental as you would at a hotel, and you'll enjoy far more space. You can find a vacational rental on VRBO, a reputable site with many options in Paris (this is also where we list La Maisonnette). Also, a few blog readers have recommended a couple choice apartments that I just had to share with you. Tara recommends this studio apartment in Montmartre and Emily recommends the apartment at the Hotel d'Hallwyl. The images within this post are of the latter--are they gorgeous or what? These two are definitely going on my Paris Wish List and promptly to one of my pinterest boards :)

Safe travels! Or in my case, sweet dreams :)

all images by Emily McCall

Real Life Home - Maria of Dreamy Whites

2012-05-02T20:46:00.001-07:00

I discovered Maria's blog, Dreamy Whites, last Fall and have been hooked ever since. I love her beautiful photographs as well as all the many lovelies in her shop, which she styles in the prettiest ways. Her images are an inspiration to me as well as her appreciation for all things French. You can also tell by reading Maria's blog, that she is a genuinely nice person too--added bonus!

Maria lives on a horse ranch in northern California, where her husband is a professional trainer. They live on a gorgeous piece of property with their five kids no less...that's five homeschooled kids. Can you believe she gets anything done? Like manage a growing business and a beautiful site? It's pretty amazing if you ask me and she most certainly has my full attention.

I've really enjoyed the photos of her children and family life, as well as the way she's transformed her home into a French-inspired farmhouse. You will love this home tour...promise.

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 :)

Maria's faux fireplace mantle and Roost Numero clock are amongst my favorites in her home. If you're interested in trying your hand at making one yourself, try this DIY tutorial.

Oh, and I'm all over these white walls (she uses "Decorator's White, Benjamin Moore fyi).

Five kids, a couple of dogs and a white sofa? Are you wondering how they all live together in harmony? I know I was! Well, Maria's secret lies in a few house rules:

1. No shoes in the house (we do this too and I have to say it's a fabulous idea--cuts down on cleaning big time).
2. No eating on the furniture.

That's it! Maria claims that it's actually pretty low maintenance and cleans up nicely too. When it comes to keeping those whites white, she's found continued success in Oxiclean and Mrs. Meyers detergent. In lieu of fabric softener, she tosses handmade lavender sachets in the dryer. Isn't that a great idea? I love it. We don't use dryer sheets either (eliminating them from the home helped my son's exzema tremendously) so I'm game for giving this idea a go.

Her vintage furnishings tucked here and there add a lot of character and warmth to a new-ish home. And those antique blue jars from France...swoon.

A giant chalkboard, neatly stacked books serving as a side table, and containers of fresh fruit all add charm to the space.

A vintage painting from a flea market and a recently-upholstered chair tucked next to a French-blue mirror (you see this color all over France--particularly on the shutters). Darling!

Maria also shares on her blog that she doesn't distress most of her furniture after she paints it. She allows the aged look to naturally appear...and appear it does with kids, pets and just plain life!

And now her kitchen nook and bedrooms (i.e. ready, set, pin!)...

Maria is truly a beautiful stylist...just look how she arranges dishes, furniture, linens, tchotchkes, etc.

One of her favorites...an antique cupboard she painted that same glorious shade as the mirror. I love seeing this piece pop up in her images.

Breakfast inside or outside? The joys of living in California...

Crisp and clean...oh how I dream of my girls' room looking like this...

How fabulous are the pom poms on the bed? (for styling purposes only, but still!) I also think the way she rolled up some of the blankets, but left a throw strewn on the bed is really beautiful. I would've never thought of this on my own and I love that Maria did!

She is also an avid gardener...but that's pretty obvious, yes? Raise your hand if you're jealous of those hydrangea bushes? I think that's all of us, right?

And now the lovely master bedroom...

There is a great story behind the tin ceiling you see above. The tins were from an fire-ravaged church in New Hampshire--one that was built in the 1800's. Maria's sister actually found them in a salvage yard and picked them up! Maria and her husband posted a brief tutorial on how they added them to the home...you should peek. Also, if you're interested in the paint color, the tin ceiling was refinished in Country Cotton, eggshell finish, Kelly Moore.

Maria admits they do play "musical chandeliers" occasionally and what a good sport her husband is to humor her rearranging :) This antique French chandelier is currently resting in her bedroom, but who knows where its final resting place truly will be! Also noteworthy are the birch branch curtain "rods"--a lovely and unexpected way to bring the outdoors inside. Pillows are made from vintage grain sacks and the lampshade was sewn by her talented mother. The bedskirt is from Anthropologie.

I hope you've enjoyed this "real life home" as much as I have!

Wanting to view more real life homes decorated by regular folks like you and I? Here you go!

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

all images by Maria Carr of Dreamy Whites

Menu of the Week: Featuring Simple Homemade Thai + Easy Pizza

2012-05-01T22:25:00.000-07:00

Last week was a good week for eating! I managed to use my time better than usual and was able to squeeze in more time on most afternoons/early evenings to prepare nice dinners for my family. It also helped that my husband was actually able to make it home for dinner almost all of those nights, which further motivated me to cook nice food! Sometimes I'd call him late afternoon to find out what his evening was looking like, just so I knew if I should make something nicer or if I should resort to pancakes for dinner :)

Here is our menu of the week, along with some notes for your meal planning purposes. I cooked six nights--four of which were vegetarian meals--and we ate out at a local Mexican place the other night (although we are still on the hunt for good Mexican here in Seattle!):

Mustard Roasted Chicken with Vegetables - I like this meal when I have salad and a crusty bread on hand. It's a very healthy meal and is the sole reason why I buy Maille Whole Grain Mustard.

Parmesan Risotto with Peas and Roasted Cauliflower - Every couple of months we pick up a big bag of frozen peas at Costco so I'm always looking for ways to incorporate them into our meals; hence the addition here. This classic Martha recipe is a great basic to build upon--you could really have fun experimenting with different accompaniments. This particular time I added some roasted cauliflower for added substance (something I try to pay attention to when preparing vegetarian meals) and boy was it good together. I'll definitely make this again.

Homemade Pizza Margherita - Trader Joe's fresh pizza sauce, fresh mozzarella di bufala (Costco has the best deal on fresh mozz) and fresh basil...super simple and definitely a kid-pleaser. Serve with a garden salad and some fresh fruit to round out the meal.

Wild Salmon encrusted with Panko and Carmelized Leeks, Roasted Brussel Sprouts and Cauliflower, Fresh Pineapple - I admit I kind of made this up based on what we had. First I sliced and sauteéd the leeks in a little butter. Then I mixed them with some panko and a teensy bit of olive oil. After salting and peppering the salmon generously, I spread the panko-leek mixture on top and then baked it in my oven. I'll make it again and write down the recipe this time! Note that you're in for some great leftovers the next day too. I made myself a salmon salad sandwich on sprouted bread with pea shoots, sliced avocado and gray sea salt. As a stay-at-home mom, I always appreciate great leftovers. Anything but pb&j!

Thai Beef Salad with Steamed Jasmine Rice and Fresh Fruit - I'll be honest...my kids didn't really go for this one, but the husband sure ate it up! I think next time I'll add a little more beef for the husband, since a salad is the main dish and all, and go a little easier on the dressing. I might've drowned it a little too much this time :) Also, I'll make it on one of those nights where we feed the kids something super simple and then enjoy a later dinner together, just the two of us, once he's home from work.

Bean Tostadas with Roasted Vegetables - I wanted to love this, but ended up feeling kind of "meh" about it. However, that could be because I didn't use the best kind of corn tortillas or refried beans or something. I'm going to give it one more go this summer when most of the ingredients are fresh at the farmer's market and also use a better brand of tortillas. I've just got to give it one more go...

More "menu of the week" posts for additional ideas and recipes.

If you've made anything you'd like to share, please do!

image 1 - Ngoc Minh Ngo for Real Simple / image 2 - Aya Brackett for Real Simple / image 3 - moi / image 4 - Leo Gong, photographer; Robyn Valarik, stylist; Sunset / image 5 - via Martha Stewart

Happiness + a Memoir

2012-04-30T23:46:00.002-07:00

A few nights ago, as I sauteed a melange of vegetables in a bath of coconut milk (as I believe Stephanie has done in her own home), I thought about the two hours of reading I'd snuck in earlier that day. Reading that involved Nie Nie's new book, Heaven Is Here. Instead of playing email catch-up, writing, editing images, photographing, cooking, baking or a myriad of other things, I dropped everything because quite honestly, I couldn't put down her book. I found it addictive, in the most positive sense. It's been a long time since I allowed reading to trump productivity (although reading has always been a love of mine), but I felt like the words written on those pages were changing my life in a subtle and sincere way. And I couldn't stop thinking about how personal she was and how grateful I was for that openness.

You see, Stephanie probably knows more about true happiness than most of us. Not just because she's found happiness in her new found circumstances, but also because she was a happy, grateful person before her accident. There was a firm foundation in play before her life so drastically changed--one based on love, conviction and personal spirituality. This memoir is a vivid reminder that although our trials change us (whether inside or out...or both), we are ultimately still the same person inside...just a lot stronger. Sometimes it's hard to find ourselves again, amidst drastically different circumstances, but it is possible.

I bet that most of think about the subject of happiness a lot. How to have it...what it feels like...when it will come...and where it comes from. What Stephanie teaches us, page by page, chapter by chapter, is that happiness is a personal choice. Like many of you, I've been reading Stephanie's blog for years; and the words she's written there have changed me for the better. But let me tell you, this book delved far deeper into her story and I cannot help but feel that a memoir this personal is an absolute treasure that we can divide amongst ourselves; and moreover, it's a beautiful, beautiful love story.

In college, my book club read Crossing to Safety by Wallace Stegner. It remains one of my all-time favorite books, not because of action-packed pages (of which it has none), but because of the subtle nuances and life lessons woven into the story. The beauty of reading Crossing to Safety is that everyone who reads it receives a different impression; as if each person learns what they personally need at that time in their lives. I imagine Steph's book to be the same. Each of us will learn a different, but very important lesson. One that will shape us into a lovelier person--on the onside where it really counts.

p.s. I chuckle every time I think about Stephanie's shirt-on-backwards-in-the-desert moment. Read it and you'll know what I mean :)

image 1 - book cover / image 2 - Meikel Reece via Alice Lane / image 3 - favorite from Nie's archives

30 Strangers Project

2012-04-27T22:39:00.002-07:00

I can still remember year one of Justin Hackworth's acclaimed 30 Strangers Project (2012 marks year 5!). My how time flies, doesn't it? Now that I wrote that I can't stop thinking about the last five years and where they've gone...

Anyway, have you heard about the project? Do you know Justin? If so, he is a great guy, right? If not, well, wonderful! You are officially eligible to participate in the 30 Strangers Project. Since the project is also a fundraiser for the Center for Women and Children, Justin is asking for mothers and daughters (of any age) as subjects. I've known a few people who participated (my sister being one of them--see below image), and they all have come back raving about the experience. I hope some of you are able to be a part of it. You will not regret it!

You can read more about the project and sign up for it here. The deadline is Monday night at midnight so hop to it!

images by Justin Hackworth

Links to Love: an IKEA Hack, a Watercolor + a Coincidence

2012-04-26T23:30:00.000-07:00

I love to end the week with a curated collection of worthwhile links to share with you all. Take a minute and explore this melting pot of interesting tidbits...I think you'll enjoy them!

Ever since Rachel posted this Bon Iver cover of one of my favorite Bonnie Raitt songs, I cannot stop listening to it. I think I've replayed it 7 times already tonight...

This IKEA hack is one of the best I've seen. I kept going back through the photos thinking, "did she really transform that into that?".

I am in love with this painting by Lauren Adams. It's a statement piece with lots of positive energy.

Going through old photos looking for something else, I stumbled upon this image I posted 3 years ago when we were in the throes of our renovation in France. Such a coincidence...or maybe just a glimpse of what was meant to be? Regardless, I find it rather priceless.

Prettiest bento boxes ever.

I hope you find time to have fun, relax and be productive this weekend. It's a balancing act, yes? And may the sun shine her rays upon you for at least a spell this weekend too. That's always an added bonus!

Sculpture by the Sea

2012-04-25T23:45:00.002-07:00

I am completely mesmerized by master's student Nicolas Elias' "Sculpture by the Sea" project in Sydney, Australia. In fact, I am having difficulty tearing myself away from his flickr stream--the colors, the shapes, the angles and that turquoise water are killer combination. Oh how I miss the days of college when I had the chance to study this sort of thing all the time (art history major back in the day). Although I will never tire of a beautiful painting, there is something about a well-crafted installation, such as this one, that moves me in a way that no other medium can. If only it still stood...

Also brilliant is the manner in which the sculpture is presented to the public. Even those who are not intentionally seeking out an artistic experience (like, say, museum goers), can experience the sheer delight of standing in the colorful shadows of this piece. In my opinion, this is precisely how we create opportunities for individuals to grow to appreciate original art and to jumpstart their own creativity within.

Have you seen anything fantastic lately in the art world? I'd love to hear about it if you have!

images via Nicolas Elias

Bloom Gift Toppers

2012-04-24T22:55:00.001-07:00

Last week I took Baby Gray on what I thought was going to be a quick walk around the block before dinner. However, the walk ended up being over 30 minutes long (one block mind you) as he could not resist touching every plant and flower we passed...bless his little heart. In doing so, I was amazed at how many varieties we came across in such a short distance; so many colors were represented and I made a mental note to revisit the evergreen gift toppers idea, but with a Springtime twist. As I photographed the little blooms, stems and herbs, I was further reminded that nature truly boasts the prettiest color palettes of all. Sometimes the most obvious beauty is the most overlooked, yes?

All you need for this simple DIY are:

1. kraft brown boxes

2. Japanese washi tape

3. herbs, stems, branches and/or blooms from your yard, the nearby park or your city block

It's amazing what you find when you look closer...I surprised myself when I found all these pretty plants either in my yard somewhere or in the alley behind my home. A couple of them might be weeds, but I don't care. They are pretty enough to me!

When choosing your blooms, try to gather a variety of colors, shapes, textures, etc. And don't just go for the obvious choices...throw some otherwise overlooked stems in there too for good measure. You may be surprised at the lovely combinations you come up with!

images by me

A GIVEAWAY from Minted

2012-04-23T21:40:00.000-07:00

May I present the three winners of the Minted Giveaway--$100 goes to each of you towards any Minted purchase. Please email me at "stephmodo@gmail.com" and include your contact information. Thank you!

I am so excited to host such a generous giveaway this week from Minted--a classy, stylish online stationer that promotes independent designers and artists. With Spring in the air and Mother's Day around the corner, Minted would like to offer 3 readers a $100 gift card. Yes, that's right...three winners! And you each will receive one hundred dollars of credit to use on the site. Isn't that wonderful! Talk about upping the odds of winning!

A few new things I'm loving at Minted...a Mother's Day Gifts section and a sizable collection of limited edition, museum-quality art prints. And of course, we can't forget the simple and beautiful birth announcements (here is Baby Gray's), baby shower invitations or my personal favorite--the skinny return address labels. There is a lot to get excited about and I promise you'll have so much fun putting those $100 gift cards to good use. So let's hop to it!

Giveaway Guidelines

- You have 5 days to enter this giveaway (closes Saturday, April 28th at midnight).
- Make 1 comment on this post to enter.
- Anonymous comments will not be considered, so please make sure we know who you are.
- The winner will be chosen via random.org and announced next week at the top of this post--so make sure you peek back and see if you're one of the lucky three!
- If you win, please respond within one week of the winner announcement to secure prize. Thank you!

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

2012-04-22T23:57:00.000-07:00

Last year we paid a visit to my in-laws in Holland during the month of April so we could experience the tulips of Holland first hand (they were amazing! stunning!). But this year such a momentous trip was not on the horizon, so we decided to explore a more local tulip festival with some good friends who flew up for the weekend. Luckily the rain stopped for two days and the glorious sun made a cameo; oh how we were grateful for that! The tulip fields here in Washington are not as extensive, but I am of the opinion that tulips in any form are beautiful. With the Cascade Mountains as a backdrop, those pretty stems shone with all their might.

Since Baby Gray couldn't read the sign asking guests to not walk between the rows, he took a few spins on his own :)

Have you ever seen a field full of so many daffodils? Until this day, I had not myself. It was quite the sight! I wanted to run through them so badly--I think the whole running-through-the-field-temptation stems from watching Little House on the Prairie as a child...any theories on that from those of you who grew up on that show too?

Color, color and more color. I love seeing the different colors of tulips side by side.

I thought these simple chalkboard signs were so European looking. Love the handwriting too!

My kids were far more excited about the mud than the tulips...they still can't believe we drove 1 1/2 hours to see flowers. Kids!

Intense red--my favorite.

I love the colors in this photo on the left...chartreuse, red and slate gray. Nature creates the most beautiful palettes, don't you think? p.s. have you ever used this Color Palette Generator? So cool.

If you're in the area, keep in mind the festival goes through the end of the month so you have one more week to run up to Mount Vernon and enjoy the blooms. If you decide to visit the area on a Saturday or Sunday, be sure to arrive there around 9 a.m. to avoid massive crowds and traffic issues.

Many more pictures after the jump...just click on "read more" to take a peek. Enjoy!

Paris

2012-04-20T09:04:00.000-07:00

This week my friend Sara finished the Boston Marathon (no small feat as many of you know) and jumped on a plane to Paris the next day with her husband and 2 kids in tow. Talk about working hard and playing hard, yes? To celebrate I thought I'd collect a few helpful posts about Paris. I know where my mind will be today...

4 hours in Paris - what to do with limited time~

My guide to Paris - an edited collection of non-touristy favorites~

What to pack for Paris - it doesn't matter where I'm going, I never seem to pack the right things. I hope this post helps you avoid a similar conundrum.

Affordable hotels in Paris - hotel rooms in Paris are small and pricey; yet some are infinitely better than others.

If a trip to Paris isn't on your horizon, have fun creating your own Parisian experience at home by making authentic crêpes for dessert tonight (nutella/banana/whipped cream!), throwing a Paris-themed birthday party for your kiddo, or watching this energetic 3-minute clip.

image by Emily McCall

A Light-Filled White Kitchen + Modern Nursery

2012-04-18T23:58:00.000-07:00

Do any of us tire of a beautiful kitchen renovation? I daresay not; especially when it involves the most delightful mix of crisp white, warm woods, and pops of color. I am so blown away by Emily's latest project (like being pregnant wasn't enough!), which undoubtedly required lots of patience and hard work. Those of us who've endured a kitchen renovation know two things...1. that it's the most difficult room to renovate and 2. that it's worth it when it's all said and done.

More images from the renovation--including "before and afters"--can be viewed on Emily's site. Also, her gorgeous home was featured in my "real life home series" last year--the rest of her space is just as beautiful as what you see here. In fact, I just have to share her recently completed nursery too...I simply cannot resist lengthening this post. Emily is due with her first child in May and she and her husband have been fastidiously preparing their home for the baby's arrival. I just love what they've done with the space...

all images by Emily McCall

The Little Prince Deluxe Pop-Up Book

2012-04-17T23:44:00.004-07:00

May I introduce you to the book that Baby Gray will just not put down...The Little Prince Deluxe Pop-Up Book (affectionately known to some of you as "le petit prince"). For 11 days now--for both naptime and bedtime mind you-- my little man requests the same book over and over. Thankfully, it is easy on the eyes given all of the exquisite illustrations and has a lot of words (it's unabridged!). So I feel like I get to read a little bit more of this interesting story each time; you know, before he excitedly turns the page mid-paragraph:) Because of all the folding, spinning and pulling of tabs inside, this pop-up book would make a wonderful, much-loved baby gift for the newborn to age 3 or 4 crowd.

My sister-in-law Rachel gifted this book to Gray when he was born and I know she purchased it at Anthropologie; however, it looks like you can also pick one up on Amazon at a discount (and just look at those reviews on both sites!). I think you'll enjoy this new classic!

images by me

A Watercolor Baby Shower

2012-04-15T20:46:00.000-07:00

Do you have a friend that you wish would blog because she has so many great ideas to share? One who has extraordinarily good taste, experience and is resourceful beyond measure? I bet you do. I am also lucky to have such a friend and last weekend I co-hosted a baby shower for Cristina in my home. Oh, how wonderful and relaxing it was to sit down and celebrate her upcoming arrival! It had been awhile since I put on a shower of any sort, and I have to admit it was really fun to jump on the planning-for-baby wagon again. Since this was a "second-baby" shower, there was more of an emphasis on food, comraderie and support for the expectant mother.

The simple tablescape was inspired by my friend Jihan's eye-catching balloons (recognize anyone on her website? and no, it's not me). When planning parties it's nice to have just one element, big or small, to serve as the overall inspiration for the event.

My co-host, Jenny the Painter :), created watercolored pages so that I could put my handy circle punchto work. She also watercolored the handwritten invitations (I used a silver pen purchased at Impress, a local stationery and rubber stamp store). Cards and envelopes were purchased at Paper Source--their Luxe White line has a nice weight and although it's not technically watercolor paper, it's heavy enough for this sort of thing.

A very feminine Christian Lacroix Evian bottle added interest. Also, a sneak peek at the party favors...

Another Geronimo...

Gussied up goblets...

When it comes to party favors for baby showers, I don't feel there are many obvious options. I tried to come up with something that related to being pregnant, but that would also be appropriate to send home with a non-expectant mother too (i.e. our guests). Water came to mind! We all need it, pregnant or not. When I spotted a handful of lovely Voss bottles at Marshalls recently, I knew they would be perfect. Plus, the pretty bottle is reusable...bonus! (Rachel taught me that trick).

And now you're wondering what's in those little pouches...

...because every expectant mother (and her friends!) appreciate a yummy, little treat.

A local French bakery, just happened to have enough of their vanilla bean white truffle macarons for our guests--2 each please! I placed them in a clear cello bag and secured shut with a small piece of gray, Japanese masking tape before sliding them carefully into the pouches. Again, hoping those pouches are reused as well--they would be perfect for small beauty items in a purse or diaper bag.

Jenny took the watercolor theme up a notch and even painted the gift bag she brought for Cristina. I love the idea of taking a plain, white paper bag and turning it into something stunning like this. So creative!

Also, I set little, single-stem bud vases at each place setting instead of a large floral arrangement. This was not only more cost-effective (allowing more money to be spend on favors, food, etc.), but a bit unexpected too. My husband actually picked out the peach tulips as I {somewhat nervously} sent him to the store with Baby Gray on the morning of the shower to choose fresh flowers* to match. I was a bit nervous so I texted him a pic of the balloon trim for matching. I think he did a pretty good job, don't you?

* locals, if you can't make it down to Pike Place for a deal on fresh flowers, hit up QFC. They seem to have a little bit of every possible flower so you have a lot of options.

For the menu we served the following...a vegetarian menu I would repeat in a heartbeat.

Asparagus Gruyère Tart
Baked Mexican Eggs with Salsa Verde (from here)
Fresh Fruit (presented on a cake stand for fun)
Herb Roasted Potatoes (one of my all-time favorite crowd pleasing side dishes)
Spring Greens and Herbs with Radishes, Crumbled Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette

all images by me

Links to Love: A Hat, a Hen House and Kinfolk

2012-04-12T23:37:00.000-07:00

Enamored with this sneak peek into Brittany's life in Copenhagen. She is crazy talented--look at those giant blooms!--and her blog is really pretty.

I love these sweet images of sisters snapped on my favorite street in Seattle. Shannon did a great job capturing siblings in a natural way--a mother can't ask for more! p.s. they are just as adorable in person as they are in these photographs.

At this year's Altitude Design Summit I cooked up a storm with Romina Rasmussen (so much fun); and for the dinner I ordered in grape juice from Navarro Winery in California for those not drinking alcohol that evening. It was a hit and I can't wait to offer it again in my own home (note to self: need to host more dinner parties). So guess what...they are offering 1 cent shipping this week on every case of wine and juice. I'm so close to buying a case of juice...it's so delicious with a nice meal. Hey, if it's good enough for French Laundry, it's more than good enough for me!

If you're thinking about having your own chickens, consider this hen house...it's a garden and hen house in one!

I bought a hat in France similar to this new arrival in Kayce's shop. I think all women should wear a hat like this at some point--so feminine.

And last, it was so much fun to finally peek at some of the images of Petra's tower condo in a recent edition of Kinfolk. If you remember, her living space was featured as Real Life Home No. 9...

image 1 - House that Lars Built / image 2 - Kayce Hughes / image 3 + 4 - Shannon Wight Photography / image 4 - Kyle Johnson