California Livin Home

24 HOUR SALE - 30% OFF SALE SECTION @ CALIFORNIA LIVIN HOME ON ETSY

2013-06-19T12:14:00.001-07:00

HOP ON OVER TO CALIFORNIA LIVIN HOME ON ETSY BEFORE THERE ALL GONE. 30% OFF ALL PILLOW COVERS AND TOTES IN MY "SALE SECTION" DOMESTIC CUSTOMERS ONLY!! ENDS AT 12PM JUNE 20TH......

thanks for taking a peek ~

Trend Alert - SUMMER BLUES

2013-06-18T08:16:00.000-07:00

From patios to porches to your indoor living spaces, changing out your pillows for the Summer is so easy.

Get them now at California Livin Home on ETSY.

thanks for taking a peek ~

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY !

2013-06-16T07:41:00.001-07:00

OUTDOOR PILLOW COVERS

2013-06-11T09:30:00.000-07:00

Check out what's "New" at California Livin Home for your Outdoor space on ETSY!

TURTLES / Coastal TURTLES Pillow Cover / Indoor/Outdoor Fabric / Turquoise / 20" x 20" / SUNBRELLA / Outdoor Pillow
$49 each

Robert Allen / SUNBRELLA PALM Pillow Cover / 20" x 20" / TURQUOISE / Indoor/Outdoor Pillow / Decorative Outdoor Pillow
$54 each

thanks for taking a peek ~

DIY - Fence Flower Box

2013-05-07T12:01:00.004-07:00

Andrew's Masterpiece Completed

I am usually the creative one in our family. Not to say my husband has no creativity but I am the one who usually thinks up projects for us to do. Okay, mostly for him to do, but I help. This time though it was 100% all his idea. My husbands idea was to have something growing up or coming down our back yard fence that happens to be made out of good ole painted rough redwood and not the prettiest stuff. He first planted Birds of Paradise in hopes that would create a focal point instead of a plain fence. That was great but he wanted more. So with his mind racing with his grand idea we headed off to Lowe's for the lumber. His idea by the way was to install on the top rail of the fence a very narrow planter box for just enough plantings of vines and flowers that would run about 20'.

So without further delay are 21 self-explanatory pics to show you just how we (he) did it!

Total Cost $120 for 20' of wonderful!

Materials Used:

Rough Redwood

1x4's for the bottom and back

1x6's Fence Boards (dog ear cut off) for front facing

Screws

level

Measuring Tape

Table Saw

Safety Goggles

thanks for taking a peek ~

GIVEAWAY TIME - OH Yes I did it again!

2013-04-11T08:43:00.001-07:00

It' GIVEAWAY TIME again but not here at California Livin Home. Don't get me wrong. It's for a set of my Pillow Covers but you are going to have to hop on over to
THE HUNTED INTERIOR.

Fellow blogger Kristin Jackson is the woman behind The Hunted Interior. Kristin is an Interior Designer and DIY'er. I became a sponsor late last month and have enjoyed scouring her blog posts for all things home decor. So hop over to the Giveaway and enter for a chance to win a set of these pillow covers. Go now! No really go NOW!!!!

20" x 20" F. Schumacher Betwixt Charcoal Pillow Covers

thanks for taking a peek ~

It's ALL Greek Key to me!

2013-04-03T18:43:00.000-07:00

Meander-Greek Key Design

The meander motif took its name from the river Meander, a river with many twists, mentioned by Homer in Iliad. The motif is also known as Greek key or Greek fret. Meander was the most important symbol in Ancient Greece, symbolizing infinity or the eternal flow of things. Many temples and objects were decorated with this motif, and it is considered that there is a connection with the Cretan labyrinth.

This design is everywhere in today's decorating. Most commonly used in textiles, the design element is showing up as accents on furniture, giving us many options to incorporate this versatile graphic in our homes. Greek key has often been considered a motif for traditional décor. But by uing it in bright bold colors like pink and blue, it becomes more modern.

thanks for taking a peek ~

Happy PEEPS Easter!

2013-03-30T07:48:00.004-07:00

This Easter while scouring the Internet for egg-decorating ideas I actually stumbled upon the PEEPS web site. You know what I am talking about. Those gooey little yellow baby chick sponge-like candies that you would get in your Easter basket every year. Of course I would eat the hollow chocolate bunny first, than the cellophane wrapped chocolate eggs and any other candy laying around in my basket, but those PEEPS were always the last thing left. To a kid that usually ate chocolate trying this peculiar marshmallow-like morsel was more of a curiosity factor than anything. Kind of like those pastel colored almonds that are wrapped in tulle (netting) and given as favor's at weddings. Okay now I am really dating myself and who actually does that anymore? Who ate them? Not me, not even as a kid attending a wedding, but the curiosity was always there. What did they taste like? Were they in my basket merely for decoration? I had to know. But a little yellow spongy chick, could I really eat it and like it? If my memory serves me correctly (hey! I am old) those little bite-sized candies were pretty sugary, and to a kid (and some adults) that is not a bad thing. I believe I did try the curious little yellow creature on one occasion. It was like eating a marshmallow with enough sugar to have any kid ricocheting off the walls in the event he or she ate too many of them.

PEEPS are not just a candy anymore that you see at Easter, and they do not just come in yellow chicks, PEEPS has become an institution! There are recipes, contests they even have a PEEPS event calendar for Pete's sake! PEEPS are now celebrated for Valentine's Day, Halloween and Christmas. They come in shapes like: hearts, stars, gingerbread men, reindeer, teddy bears, pumpkins, ghosts and cats. PEEPS are chocolate covered, chocolate dipped come in vanilla creme flavored, peppermint flavored, gingerbread and chocolate mousse! So please do not forget the PEEPS this Easter, they will bring back childhood memories in no time and have you smiling!

HAPPY EASTER!

thanks for taking a peek ~

Restful Reading Retreats

2013-03-25T10:58:00.003-07:00

Whether it's in a corner of a room or in front of a window, we would all love to have that one space where we could relax and read a good book. These spaces are unique in where they were placed not to mention that most of them could be created in a weekend with pre-made cabinets and some ingenuity.

thanks for taking a peek ~

Colorful Accent Wall - Behind Shelves

2013-03-16T08:32:00.000-07:00

Last summer we finished an area in our entry hall that required a much needed boost with a built-in. I knew I wanted to paint the back wall an accent color to make all my personal items pop not to mention add a little drama to this otherwise boring area of the house, but what color? Whether you have a bookcase, nook or hutch with shelves, try painting the back wall an accent color and see how a once ho-hum space can be a real show-off one instead!

thanks for taking a peek ~

I chose Aqua for my white cabinets and shelves and my Nautical treasures look fabulous.

Against the Royal Blue, heirloom blue & white dishes and pottery really stand out.

Kelly Green gets a standing ovation in this dining area.

Yellow always makes me smile :-)

Calming Blue so you get a little work done.

Different shades of Rose Pink play well with it's Pink Sofa companion.

Celandon Green looks great as a backdrop for this eclectic mix of items with the White Oak.

Hard-Working Spaces / Laundry Room

2013-03-13T10:22:00.001-07:00

It's not often we're blown away by a laundry room. It’s usually the area of your house you don’t want anyone to see. Whether your washer and dryer are tucked away in a tiny nook or in a spacious basement or garage, utilizing every square inch counts. There are many elements that can make your laundry room more efficient.

keep in mind......

Pre-made cabinets from a home store are not only inexpensive they come in many sizes and can easily be installed to create not only storage but a folding station.

Task Lighting is essential. We use it in our kitchens so why not have it in our laundry rooms.

Contain all your laundry supplies in baskets to avoid clutter. If you have open shelves this is a great way to add a little charm to your laundry area.

Go Vertical to Dry Clothes: If your laundry room is too-small..... vertical space is often the most overlooked area in these rooms. Try hanging a small wooden ladder from the ceiling or a simple 1-1/2" dowel. Just make sure that you are able to reach them!

Great Storage & Folding Table idea.

Sliding door neatly hides your washer & dryer.

Your Garage can be pretty too~

Tiny Space? No problem!

Add a retractable ironing board!

Smart layout for smaller spaces

Floating Shelves

Presort Dirty Clothes in Hampers.

And most of all….be a little stylish with your laundry room. Decorating with cute accessories, hardware, baskets and lighting can make this space more enjoyable to be in!

thanks for taking a peek ~

Outdoor Area Rugs - Al Fresco Decor

2013-03-12T09:20:00.000-07:00

Al fresco decor has become a priority for homeowners, and now more furnishings dedicated to the outside are available more than ever before. Outdoor rugs are designed to reflect the same trends and styles found in interior floor coverings, but are made specifically for outdoor use. A while back I was looking for an Outdoor rug for my two outdoor patio areas. How are you suppose to decide which one you want when you have so many choices? Geometric, floral, solids, stripes, the possibilities are overwhelming and endless not to mention all the sizes, colors and patterns they can come in.. Depending on the area you are using your rug you need to ask yourself a few questions before you buy.

What size will I need?
If you have several pieces of furniture you may need a 5' x 7' or larger, 8' x 10' to designate a seating area. Outline with painter's tape on your surface the different sizes and place the furniture on and around this area. If you are placing the rug under furniture, it is suggested to have either all of the furniture legs on the rug, or just the front legs. This tip makes your choice so much easier!

What should it be made of?
Natural and synthetic woven materials allow outdoor rugs to be durable enough to handle all weather conditions. Outdoor rugs are commonly used in high-traffic interior areas, such as entryways or mud rooms. Synthetic coverings, such as polypropylene or plastic rugs, often come in a wider range of bright colors, can be easily hosed down and dry quickly. Additionally, they are light-weight so you can easily roll them up to move them around. Synthetic rugs are often less expensive than natural materials as well.

What Color and Pattern should I choose?
Area Rugs are now available in brightly-colored solids, stripes, floral, geometric and more. To determine which is right for your space, consider what will compliment your existing furnishings and how much of the rug will be visible. A bold pattern may be fun in a seating area while a simple solid or border patterned rug may be suitable under a dining table.

Where can I find my new Outdoor area rug?

SO many websites offer Indoor and Outdoor area rugs. I have listed a few below to help you in your search:

GrandinRoad.com

BallardDesigns.com

Frontgate.com

Overstock.com

Plowhearth.com

DashandAlbert.com

theCompanyStore.com

CottageandBungalow.com

CottageHomeMaine.com

OutddorRugsOnly.com

Couristan.com

Dash and Albert

Couristan

Outdoor Rugs Only

Plow & Hearth

Cottage Home Maine

thanks for taking a peek ~

Siesta Sunday - Outdoor Oasis - Dreamy Daybeds

2013-03-10T07:52:00.004-07:00

Are you dreaming of Summer? Well it is still a ways off but Spring will be here sooner than you think. Get inspired by these wonderfully relaxing Outdoor ideas for lounging.We all like to kick our shoes off after a hectic day so why not create a "Spa" like retreat in your backyard. Happy Siesta~!~!~!~

thanks for taking a peek ~

Corner Retreat

Cool Breeze Lounger

Colorful Cabana

My Outdoor Oasis ~~*~~ Step 1: See how I made it.

Asian Outdoor Daybed

Perfect Order - Simple Storage Solutions

2013-03-08T08:05:00.002-08:00

no-No-NO!

Have you ever had the feeling that you are a little disorganized? You know what I mean. The linen closet that has all your towels shoved in it, oh their folded but if anyone was to open it the towels would all fall out. Or how about your small bathrooms little vanity? That small under sink cabinet can barely hold cleaning supplies let alone toilet paper, soap and forget about putting extra towels in there. How about your kitchen utensils? Well in my house they are all in one drawer, one very small drawer.

YES-YES-YES!!!!

Most days I have to rummage through it for what I am looking for, I have absolutely no organization in any of these areas of my house. Well thank goodness for all the fabulous websites that offer not only solutions to your organizational skills or lack their-of, but simple, creative and unique fixes. When thinking of where you are going to store your items keep in mind that other areas in a room can provide much needed storage. Think vertical. Go up! How about under-bed drawers? Hang baskets on a wall. Stop and really think about the space you have or in some cases don't have and find that much needed in the unexpected place!

Towel Rack + Hanging Baskets = GREAT storage!

Magazine Racks double as towel storage~

remember.....think VERTICAL!

Vertical~

I like this idea because it has 2 purposes.....
1. Lighting source and
2. STORAGE and display!

How cute are these Mason Jars? Great storage for a child's craft area.

back in the kitchen.... these hanging mason jars have easy access while cooking.

Organized Craft Cupboard

Decorative bucket doubles as a handy shaving kit keeper.

I saw this and thought WOW! Really?

www.tszuji.co.uk

For a more industrial look in the bathroom use mason jars with metal straps attached to a board to store cotton balls and other item's.

Thanks for taking a peek~

Great online sources for Storage ideas:

www.bhg.com
www.realsimple.com
www.organizeit-online.com

And the Giveaway Winner is.........................

2013-03-01T08:34:00.001-08:00

thanks for taking a peek ~

Eye Candy ~~ Pink & Green Rooms to LOVE

2013-02-23T21:53:00.001-08:00

Have you ever thought of pairing Raspberry or Hot Pink with Green?

This bold and sophisticated combination can take any room to a whole new level.

Hot Pink & Apple Green is never boring.

Or how about a bit more sophistication with touches of gold? This caned settee looks absolutely perfect with the pink and white toile cushion and solid pink & green pillows. I absolutely love the tiny bit of gold around the base of each lamp, just the right amount of glam.

Pink & Green

Casual Lamp: AnnetteTatum.com

Hand painted Elephant Pillow: JohnRobshaw.com

Tote Bag: CottageandBungalow.com

Pouf Pillow: OBXTradingGroup.com

Pink Chinese Chippendale Chair: Wisteria.com

Contemporary Side Accent Table: Houzz.com

thanks for taking a peek ~

Fantastic Finds Friday - FLORAL PILLOWS

2013-02-22T07:48:00.000-08:00

Blue Blossom Floral

4-NEW Floral Print Pillow Covers

see them ALL at

California Livin Home

on Etsy

Water Color Floral

thanks for taking a peek ~

Pillow Cover GIVEAWAY!!!!!!

2013-02-21T07:47:00.000-08:00

PILLOW COVER GIVEAWAY IS STILL GOING! ENTER NOW HERE
http://blog.californialivinhome.com/2013/02/pillow-cover-giveaway-enter-now.html

TO WIN!!!!

thanks for taking a peek ~

Coral & Grey Color-Combos

2013-02-19T08:06:00.002-08:00

I love color, but most of all I love mixing color's in home decor. Coral is one of those colors that most of us think is a little on the feminine side a pinkish-orange.

One of the most noted complimentary colors of Coral Pink is Teal. The combination is bright and cheery. But pair it with a Charcoal Grey and any thought of it being too feminine disappears. I think it becomes modern, and masculine. Bold and inviting. Don't be afraid to use colors that you would not normally pair together, you may be colorfully surprised!

thanks for taking a peek ~

<div style="display:none;"><a href="http://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/paint-color/fancoral">fan coral</a></div>

<div style="display:none;"><a href="http://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/paint-color/coralgables">coral gables</a></div>

<div style="display:none;"><a href="http://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/paint-color/coralreef">coral reef</a></div>

<div style="display:none;"><a href="http://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/paint-color/marilynsdress">marilyn's dress</a></div>

<div style="display:none;"><a href="http://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/paint-color/shadowgray">shadow gray</a></div>

<div style="display:none;"><a href="http://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/paint-color/grayshower">gray shower</a></div>

Day Dreaming about Bedding

2013-02-18T09:16:00.000-08:00

The bedroom is one of the most important spaces in any home. Deciding on new bedding can be a task for some. Okay I am one of those people. Each one of us has a unique taste and budget on how we want to decorate our bedroom. When looking in department store's one can be overwhelmed by all those beds made up so beautiful with luxurious linens not to mention all the patterns and colors. We want our choices to fit our style which in essence is a great representation of ones character and personality. We also spend a third of our lives sleeping. So a good thing to remember is bedding that promotes a good night's sleep is a must.

thanks for taking a peek ~

Crate & Barrel ~ Marimekko ~ Tilkkula

Designer Living ~ Harbor House Coastline

Serena & Lily ~ Navy & White Collection

Designer Living ~ Echo Cozumel Collection

John Robshaw ~ Nazar Collection

Yala Designs ~ Midara Collection

Trina Turk ~ Blue Peacock Bedding Collection

Trina Turk ~ Ikat Bedding Collection

Fun Beach Towels

2013-02-14T08:33:00.003-08:00

Hit the beach this summer with these incredibly cute seaside towels I found at One Kings Lane. They will not last long at $19 bucks each. Designed by contemporary artists these whimsical and bright beach towels will make you stand out from all the other beach bums this summer. So many choices you may as well get one of each! Fish, Whales, Anchor, Sea Creatures and Jelly Fish did I mention the Sunglasses? Exclusively at One Kings Lane. So get into the summer mood !

thanks for taking a peek ~

Stephen Haskell Fish Towels

Luzelle van der Westhuizen Towels

Tom Slaughter Towels

S. Moss Sunglass Towels

Painted Wood Floors

2013-02-13T08:01:00.001-08:00

I grew up in a home with hardwood floors. After 5 kid’s, numerous animals, fish tanks and every day wear and tear those hardwood floors, well, showed some wear. Years after us kids were all out of the house, my parents had them refinished back to their original shine, scuffs and water damage all gone. These day’s us DIY’ers like to renew and refresh a space on our own. We not only want to save money but we want an outcome that is unexpected. So while new carpet or refinishing is great for some I recommend you stay on this page and find new ways to rejuvenate your tired hardwood floors with a new look. A fresh coat of paint will not only brighten a space but can be a great inexpensive solution to dealing with not-so great floors.

If you're a lover of cottage or beach-inspired style, then painted white floors are for you. No need to worry about scuffs and scratches; they'll just add to the charm and create a distressed look.

How to Paint Floors:
VALSPAR PAINT

How about a Hexagon Floor?

Simply Beachy~Diamonds Painted Floor.

Love this Chalk Paint Floor. It's all about patience!

Cool and Blue Painted Floor.

Stenciled Floor. Their are so many stencils out there. Find your's at Cutting Edge Stencils.

thanks for taking a peek ~

Tickled Pink Decorating

2013-02-12T09:49:00.001-08:00

Pink is not one of those colors I decorate with. Wear, yes, decorate with, not so much. However, around holidays like Valentine’s Day and Christmas I love to use it in splashes. The generally accepted rule is pink for the boys, and blue for the girls. Okay I get that rule but times have changed. You rarely see a boy wearing pink but you will see a lot of men wearing pink and my husband is one of them. Pink can be masculine. Combining pink with other darker colors such as dark blue, dark green, black or gray, adds strength and sophistication to pink. Growing up we had the quintessential “pink” bathroom. I knew girl’s that had the “all pink” bedroom and I even had a teacher in elementary school that not only wore pink every day but also owned a pink 65' Ford Mustang! Okay it was the sixties! Pink has and always will be a favorite in decorating but is has taken a step out of the girl’s bedrooms, nurseries and bathrooms and taken a step up into our living rooms, dining rooms and entries! Pink accents add that pop of color that is not only energizing but unexpected. So many variations of the color can be seen in home décor. Take a look at the pics below to hmmm get a bit Tickled, Pink that is ~........by the way......Happy Valentine's!

thanks for taking a peek ~

Variations of the Color Pink

Blush: Similar to skin color, this very pale pink has sensual and sexual connotations. It is non-threatening but lacks passion and energy.

Rose Pink: This is the pink of universal love and unity. It is mature, feminine and intuitive.

CountryLiving.com

Salmon Pink: There is a touch of orange in salmon pink.

Orchid: This is an unusual lavender-pink and relates to the unconventional and the individual doing his or her own thing. It is the non conformist.

Fuchsia: A blend of deep pink and blue, fuchsia inspires confidence, assurance and maturity, a more responsible and controlled nurturing and love.

Hot Pink: Hot pink inspires a more passionate, playful and sensual love. It exudes warmth and happiness and a love of life.

PILLOW COVER GIVEAWAY - ENTER NOW!!!!

2013-02-07T08:53:00.001-08:00

I thought it was time to kick 2013 into full gear with what else but a GIVEAWAY. My audience is global so I wanted to make sure that EVERYONE has a chance. I have 2 Indoor/Outdoor Pillow Covers (Inserts are NOT included) that will go to the lucky WINNER! This Giveaway is open to EVERYONE! YAY!!!!
So please take a moment and enter!

Here are ALL my Links *~*~*

CaliforniaLivinHome on ETSY

California Livin Home Website

California Livin Home on FACEBOOK

Livin By The Beach on TWITTER
a Rafflecopter giveaway

You WIN 1 of ME and.....

1 of me Too!!!!

thanks for taking a peek & entering. GOOD LUCK!

Fantastic Finds Friday - 10 Under $50 Finds!

2013-01-25T09:16:00.000-08:00

Going shopping this weekend online? Well if you are take a look at these fantastic finds at some of our favorite home decor sites all for under $50!

thanks for taking a peek ~

Enameled Salad Server Set
Pier 1 Imports
$34.95

Modern Sunburst Wall Clock in Teal
Target
$29.99

Set of 6 Cheese Forks
Ballard Designs
$29

Sea Glass Lamp
Pier 1 Imports
$39.99

Juice Mercado Baskets
Serena & Lily
$48 set of 2

Sailcloth Drawstring Bag
Cottage and Bungalow
$34

Rugby Stripe Denim Rain or Shine Accent Rug 2' x 3'
Cottage and Bungalow
$34

Seahorse Beach Towel
Joss and Main
$34.95

Classic Stripe Towels
Pottery Barn
$20-30

Trina Turk Lumbar Pillow Cover
12" x 20"
California Livin Home on Etsy
$45

California Livin Home

24 HOUR SALE - 30% OFF SALE SECTION @ CALIFORNIA LIVIN HOME ON ETSY

Trend Alert - SUMMER BLUES

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY !

OUTDOOR PILLOW COVERS

DIY - Fence Flower Box

GIVEAWAY TIME - OH Yes I did it again!

It's ALL Greek Key to me!

Happy PEEPS Easter!

Restful Reading Retreats

Colorful Accent Wall - Behind Shelves

Hard-Working Spaces / Laundry Room

Outdoor Area Rugs - Al Fresco Decor

Siesta Sunday - Outdoor Oasis - Dreamy Daybeds

Perfect Order - Simple Storage Solutions

And the Giveaway Winner is.........................

Eye Candy ~*~ Pink & Green Rooms to L*O*V*E

Fantastic Finds Friday - FLORAL PILLOWS

Pillow Cover GIVEAWAY!!!!!!

Coral & Grey Color-Combos

Day Dreaming about Bedding

Fun Beach Towels

Painted Wood Floors

Tickled Pink Decorating

PILLOW COVER GIVEAWAY *-* ENTER NOW!!!!

Fantastic Finds Friday - 10 Under $50 Finds!

Eye Candy ~~ Pink & Green Rooms to LOVE

PILLOW COVER GIVEAWAY - ENTER NOW!!!!