LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE

Bed and Bath Photos

2012-01-28T22:20:00.000-06:00

To Have a Bathroom

That is Peaceful, Serene and Pretty . . .

Doesn't that sound inviting?

Houston Architect Brent Nyquist invited me a while back to see his client's home.

No words needed for this pictorial tour below, which includes the couple's master bath and a quick glance into their bedroom.

Sometimes it's nice to get to bathe in a luxurious moment or two. . . .

Brent teaches a continuing education class at Rice University for those wanting to understand the process of "building your dream house." Go here for the class info.

Did you gain any ideas here? Love to hear from you!

Inviting You Into My "New" 19th Century Cottage....

2012-01-24T15:46:00.000-06:00

In the Previous Post,

I Introduced You to a Little Cottage

on Galveston Island -- oh so

charming with its pastel-colored fish-scale shingles.

Now, come on inside and see what was . . . .

The previous resident, "Terri," went largely with a Shabby Chic look that conveyed a cool island vibe in this little dollhouse of a place, built in 1892, in an area referred to as the East End. You might see a few Victorian touches, too -- here and there.

Here's her place -- soon to be my place:

Love the wall color. And it's right in keeping with Pantone's 2012 color pick, "Tangerine Tango." It might be too bright for some but not for me.

Terri closed the pocket doors and placed a little secretary in front of them to secure it (see below). But, I think I will leave them partially open. I know why she did that; it's the entrance into her bedroom.

A flowery view of the side hall that leads back to another room and on into the kitchen:

The side hall is a deep Victorian red. I plan to paint it a different color. Perhaps either the tangerine or apple green she used in the kitchen. Any thoughts? (The flash of someone's camera diluted the actual color. It kind of looks pink-red here, but it's not.)

Her family room:

The kitchen:

The ceiling -- seen below. The differences in look is the result of a former screened-in porch becoming the kitchen.

The bath:

The very pink bedroom is seen below. Very feminine.

Not exactly "me," but the wallpaper stays -- at least for now.

So, I'm open to any thoughts about how to create a more yin and yang balance.

Thoughts are welcome! ?????????

A glimpse into the backyard:

As always, I enjoy hearing from you! The comment box is below....

My New Island Project

2012-01-21T07:54:00.000-06:00

Introducing You to My "New" Cottage

on Galveston Island

It was built in 1892.

The little house appeared on “Moments in Luxury,” a PBS show with tours of very special homes hosted by Designer Bill Stubbs (on right above with representative from the Galveston Historic Foundation).

Stay tuned for more! ... moving in soon.

The winner of the bracelet GiveAway: Tonya Dean!

Thanks to all who entered. We may have more, so keep watch.

Have a nice weekend.

Table Lamp and Standing Light Pay Tribute to the Late Great Amy Winehouse

2012-01-17T21:02:00.000-06:00

The Portuguese Lighting Company,

Delightfull, Introduces "Amy" --

A Lamp With a Glowing Likeness to the

Soulful Singer Who Died Too Young Last Year.

Amy's golden voice and her trademark jet-black bouffant hair style inspired the contemporary-retro look of this illuminating spotlight:

And here is a photo of Amy Winehouse, the English singer-songwriter, taken from her Web site:

September 1983 –- July 2011

A closeup of the lamp's detailing:

Prices, depending on the size, begin at $750 (or so I "hear)," but you'll have to check with Delightfull to make certain.

The table and standing "Amys."

Go here to hear the music by the singer, Amy Winehouse.

Our GiveAway Ends This Thursday! You've still got time to enter, and it's easy! Go here for details.

The Cave Home of French Designer Alexandre de Betak

2012-01-14T09:13:00.002-06:00

You Know Him Even Though You Think Not.

Alexandre de Betak, furniture and fashion designer,

has long been choreographing and producing

the Victoria Secret runway shows

The 44-year-old Alexandre and father of two told Trendland

that he spent 10 years turning his dream to live in a modern-day "cave" into a reality.

His amazing, one-of-a-kind domicile resides in the coastal village in the Tramuntana region

of Majorca.

Albeit quite splendid, the peaceful allure of the pool area above doesn't look much like a cave, does it? No . . . but how about this:

Movie time with friends and family in this cozy yet cavernous space.

Loving all the billowy pillows. Smooth architectural lines and the arched ceiling create more of a cave-like setting, don't you think?

De Betak told Trendland that ancient dwellings inspired him to design and build a home that celebrated the land, its offerings and the unpredictable twists and turns you might find within a cave. No sharp corners or rigid separation walls allowed in this house. He and his family live in what he calls a rustic and eco-friendly construction.

He also was interviewed by the New York Times. To read that interview and see the photos they posted, go here.

Alexandre de Betak and his children . . .

perhaps jumping for joy that they get to spend time in such a cool place?

(Photo from the NY Times.)

More Photos of the Home:

What do you think? Could you live here? What do you like?

All photos -- except the one noted -- are from Trendland.

Remember to sign up for the GiveAway! Go here for details!

Hotel Inspiration -- Where You Can See What Might Work at Home

2012-01-10T10:23:00.000-06:00

Ever Want to "Push the Envelope"

Enough to Design in Unorthodox Ways?

Luxury Hotels Offer a Glimpse into What Could Be in Your Own Home.

One Finnish Retreat Offers Amazing Rooms in a Magnificent Setting.

The New Year ushered in some new beginnings for me. One being a return to school. As I settle into a new routine this week and even next, my posting schedule might run awry. But they will be frequent enough; that much I can promise. I still expect to draw from my own personal files, but today's -- as well as future upcoming posts -- will share found delights, too.

An Awe-Inspiring Resort in Saariselkä in Lapland, Finland!

Hotel Kakslauttanen

This glass-encased igloo gives guests a spectacular view of the Northern Lights, a magnificent natural phenomena.

If you've got land, wouldn't this be a great place to retreat to -- in all seasons, no matter where?! It's like camping but in style! What other idea can you tailor from these images to suit your own style and dreams?

Igloo Village -- part of the Hotel Kakslauttanen conglomerate. Saariselkä is located

about 155 miles from the Artic Circle.

A close-up look. It looks cold (brrrr), but the hotel keeps it toasty enough. They promise comfortable "luxury" beds and indoor toilets! In addition to their 20 glass igloos, they also offer 60 beds in snow igloos. You can see all of these by visiting their Web site, here.

The hotel also offers log cabins -- all of which are made from a rare dead standing pine called kelo. Here's their honeymoon cabin (the size is reduced to see a bit more detail):

Pulled straight from the hotel's Web site, this is what they have to say:

"Honeymoon Turf Chamber has been built in a traditional way using stripped birch covered with a half-meter layer of turf providing extreme warmness even in a harshest winter. Equipped a cozy bedroom with a fireplace and a Las Vegas-style bathroom featuring a glowing stars ceiling with the Pole Star located right over the bathtub. The Finnish sauna is naturally present too. The bathroom bears the mark of Versace, while the bedroom is by Fagun of Finland."

Another room:

Note the sweet pattern inside the light fixture (upper left).

So, what do you think? Do these rooms inspire, help you think "outside the box?"

What features or elements appealed to you?

All images from Hotel Kakslauttanen .

Still got time

to enter our giveaway for the bracelets.

You've got a great chance of winning them!

Go here for info.

An Aquarium Sink -- Fish not included

2012-01-06T23:18:00.000-06:00

Make a Splash in the Bath

With This Unique Wash Basin!

I found it priced at between $4,000 and $8,000 -- but, sad to say, that's without

the colorful fish. You'll have to pay extra to fill up this conversation starter --

the aquarium sink:

from Smolka

from Opulent Items

What do you think? Will it be among the items you purchase for your next bath remodel or build out?

Home Offices -- No Holds Barred

2012-01-03T10:59:00.001-06:00

Back to Work!

A Peek into Offices Where PJs Are Allowed.

The Editors at This Old House Share 16 of Their Favorites Here.

A few of theirs intermingle with others found -- and displayed in this post.

Something changed at home when the World-Wide Web and all of its technological descendants took hold, making the Earth "smaller" -- or more directly stated, more accessible. Home offices and stunning studies became as necessary as indoor toilets did in the 19th century (until 1840, indoor plumbing could be found only in the homes of the rich and the better hotels, according to about.com.)

From Love Where You Live; go here for the post.

The design of this office was based on the architectural allure of French Pigeonniers.

Certainly, home offices afford much flexibility -- from what you wear to when you work. And if you're with a company that relies on cross-continent phone calls to get business rolling, then it's always better to make those early communications from a warm, comfortable and equally productive space as an office miles away. Who wants to make a trek through rain or snow at 2 a.m. anyway?!

OK, some might have to go out . . . but still a 200-foot walk is better than driving -- and it's better for the environment! Case made! Here are two home offices that were built behind the "main house:"

From This Old House; go here for the details.

The first home office was found right there in the kitchen. It seems they became a mainstay sometime in the 1990s. Or was it the late '80s? It's still an important place -- or perch -- to peruse cookbooks, pay bills and schedule parent-teacher meetings:

A home office nestled in a small kitchen space.

An ASID showhouse in Houston featured a home office located off the kitchen in the "mudroom."

From Sunset's home office selections; go here to see more.

As we all know, offices can fit into any home -- even if it's in a closet or a spaced carved out in the family room . . .

Both photos above from Sunset magazine.

Home studies and offices offer another venue for self expression. From the way it's decorated (or not) to where it's located (a renovated attic, perhaps) . . . . They all seem to say something about the worker bee (an artist, writer, decorator, photographer, architect, entrepreneur, investment banker . . . .

Take a look at the collection below -- from Love Where You Live:

A home commute looks pretty enticing, right? See any that ring your bell?

I'd be interested to know. Just leave a comment below . . . I really do enjoy hearing from you!! Got to dash now -- and get out of my PJs!

Happy New Year. Wishing you all good health and well-deserved prosperity!

Be Sure to Sign Up for Our GiveAway.

For Freshwater Pearl Bracelets.

It's Easy, Fun. And, you've got a great chance of winning!

Go here for details.

GiveAway -- 3 Pearl Bracelets

2011-12-29T11:48:00.002-06:00

The Today Show Occasionally Airs

Steals and Deals -- Hot Items at Discounted Prices.

From blankets to jewelry . . . .

Love Where You Live is Giving Away These 3 bracelets!

I happened to be watching the morning The Today Show put up macraméd freshwater pearl bracelets by Jewelry Designer Anthony Dreyer. They were indeed a steal. And they are so sweet. I wanted to celebrate the upcoming New Year by sharing my score with one lucky Love Where You Live Readers. The bracelets normally retails for $50 each!

Love Where You Live is giving away 3. As shown above and below.

The 3 bracelets will go to one lucky person living in the lower 48 states. (Sorry, international readers; I've got to find a giveaway for you all, as I appreciate your visits!! Darn those outrageous postage fees! I shall see what I can do.)

Your chances of winning, by the way, are really, really good since this is a Love Where You Live-hosted GiveAway! No other site is involved.

To Enter:

Please use the Rafflecopter form at the end of this post (it's easy, but if you do happen to have questions or experience problems, just give me a shout by emailing me).

The Rafflecopter will randomly select a winner on Thursday, January 19, 2012, at midnight EST. NOTE: Be sure to leave an email address so that you can be contacted should you win!

The winner will be announced on Friday, January 20. Please, please check your email on that day. If we don't hear from you within 48 hours, another winner will be selected.

Here are some more images of the bracelets. They tie in the back, enabling anyone to wear them.

Good luck!

It may take a few seconds the Rafflecopter form to load.

thanks! (and thanks for bearing with me on getting this up and out!!)
*If you are on the home page and the rafflecopter form is not visible please follow this link --
GiveAway -- 3 Pearl Bracelets

Note: If you tweet about it more than once, come back and enter that you did -- so all that you do counts!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

ANNOUNCING GIVEAWAY . . .

2011-12-27T20:41:00.001-06:00

. . .Tomorrow, Wednesday, December 28. Yes, mañana! You'll have access then to the particulars. I think you're going to love it!

Hate to tease you now, but technical difficulties force me . . . .

My iPhone allows me this quick moment to touch base. We'll be back on track again soon!

Sam and I hope you enjoyed a wonderful holiday! We did!

Two Homemade Eggnog Recipes -- and an Edible Christmas Tree for the Table

2011-12-22T19:26:00.000-06:00

Love Eggnog

But Not the Corn Syrup Used to Make

the Grocery Store Brands.

So, for the first time, I made my own!

If you make one of the recipes (below) tomorrow, it will be delicious on Saturday and really delightful on Sunday. The longer it sits in the fridge, the better it becomes. (I did highlight "corn syrup" in the headline above to give you a link to the Mayo Clinic's write-up on the health concerns of high-fructose corn syrup. Loving where you live, after all, is about living well. And well translates into healthy.)

Cheers!

Eggnog

Recipe courtesy Alton Brown, 2005

Ingredients

4 egg yolks
1/3 cup sugar, plus 1 tablespoon
1 pint whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3 ounces bourbon
1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
4 egg whites*

Directions

In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the egg yolks until they lighten in color. Gradually add the 1/3 cup sugar and continue to beat until it is completely dissolved. Add the milk, cream, bourbon and nutmeg and stir to combine.

Place the egg whites in the bowl of a stand mixer and beat to soft peaks. With the mixer still running gradually add the 1 tablespoon of sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.

Whisk the egg whites into the mixture. Chill and serve.

Cook's Note: For cooked eggnog, follow procedure below:

In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the egg yolks until they lighten in color. Gradually add the 1/3 cup sugar and continue to beat until it is completely dissolved. Set aside.

In a medium saucepan, over high heat, combine the milk, heavy cream and nutmeg and bring just to a boil, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat and gradually temper the hot mixture into the egg and sugar mixture. Then return everything to the pot and cook until the mixture reaches 160 degrees F.

Remove from the heat, stir in the bourbon, pour into a medium mixing bowl, and set in the refrigerator to chill.

In a medium mixing bowl, beat the egg whites to soft peaks. With the mixer running gradually add the 1 tablespoon of sugar and beat until stiff peaks form. Whisk the egg whites into the chilled mixture.

NOTE: You could omit the bourbon and serve on the side. I also added the egg whites when the other mixture was still hot in order to cook the whites slightly. It came out just fine.

* Raw Eggs

*RAW EGG WARNING
Food Network Kitchens suggest caution in consuming raw and lightly cooked eggs due to the slight risk of salmonella or other food-borne illness. To reduce this risk, we recommend you use only fresh, properly refrigerated, clean grade A or AA eggs with intact shells, and avoid contact between the yolks or whites and the shell.

From the Food Network.

Pumpkin Nog

created by Tony Abou-Ganim, Modern Mixologist

for Group Recipes

INGREDIENTS:

12 jumbo eggs
5 cups 2 percent milk
2 cups Equal® Granular sweetener (Spoonful) or 48 packets Equal sweetener or sugar
1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
ground nutmeg
3 cups spiced rum (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

Whisk eggs and milk in large heavy saucepan.
Cook and stir over medium heat until the mixture coats a metal spoon.
DO NOT BOIL.
Remove from heat
Place pan in a large bowl of ice water and stir frequently 5 minutes.
Stir in Equal(sugar), pumpkin, vanilla and ground cinnamon.
Cover and chill eggnog mixture at least 2 hours before serving
Garnish with ground nutmeg just before serving.
Alcoholic Option: Add 3 cups spiced rum during step 3.

NOTE: I used raw sugar rather than the artificial. Just my preference. And I usually put in less sugar than called for; that's for all recipes, actually. I also used cooked pumpkin.

An Edible Christmas Tree

I saw this in a magazine called Family Fun

and had to share it.

Here's to good food and good health!

Have a wonderful holiday -- Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa . . . We'll post again

on Dec. 27.

Easy DIY Gift -- A Stylish Button Necklace

2011-12-20T23:19:00.003-06:00

Guest Blogger Kate Fox

Tells Us -- and Shows Us -- How to Make

a Handmade Button Necklace

Styling and Giving = Good Living

Kate Says:

I love the idea of making presents, saving a little money, and showing friends and family that I took the time to make them something special and unique. It all seems like a win-win. The only problem I have when it comes to DIY (do-it-yourself) projects is I can end up spending more than expected on something that looks handmade –- and not in a good way. That is why I am excited to share with Love Where You Live readers a fantastic, easy and stylish DIY necklace!

Kate modeling one of her button necklaces.
(Perhaps the final touch to entertaining at home, yes?!)

She begins: Originally featured on marthastewart.com, I found this necklace while researching a stack for delicious.com (soon to be finished: Top Ten EASY and Amazing DIY Holiday Gifts). The first thing I noticed was how cool the necklace was but as I read the instructions, I found them to be confusing and a little intimidating. So, wary of spending my money and time on a fruitless project, I decided to try a different DIY project –- furry bracelets. Since I am not writing this post about furry bracelets, I think you can guess how they turned out.

Kate's try at making the "furry" bracelet.

And she confesses: After the furry bracelet debacle, I contemplated giving up on the whole DIY presents thing –- especially since I was already $36 in the red, but I figured I would give it one last shot before I bought frozen cookie dough to bake and pass-off as my “homemade” cookies.

I went to marthastewart.com and read the button necklace how-to, Googled slipknot and then reread the button necklace how-to. Still confused, I just went for it. First, I went to JoAnn’s Fabric and Craft Store to get the tools and materials needed for the project. I am showing you what the marthastewart.com instructions called for in black and what I did in red:

Tools and Materials

Abalone-shell or pink mother-of-pearl buttons

I found the abalone-shell buttons at JoAnn’s, each pack had 64 buttons – that is about one necklace.

Shellz Buttons 64 count $3.29

Beading String, cut to 40 inches

I did not find any string named specifically “beading string,” but I did find 3-ply bead thread and DMC Floss Group thread. There are pros and cons to both types of thread. The bead thread is stiffer than the DMC thread, which makes it easier to wield and thread through the necklace closure; however, because the bead thread is stiffer it does not fall as nicely as the DMC thread. I also chose three different colors – black, brown and a neutral cream color, but I ended up only using black.

20 yards 3-ply bead thread, Black $2.99

Crimp Bead

I found crimp beads on my second trip to JoAnn's, I should have Googled them to begin with so I would know what I was looking for – alas, live and learn. As it turned out, the crimp beads I got were too small and seemed like quite a headache, so I got 3mm double cup connectors. Let me first explain what crimp beads are: They finish the end of the necklace and help create a loop for attaching the clasp.

48 - 3mm double cup connectors - $0.98 (on sale)

Necklace Closure

At first I got a spring ring clasp but, after a few trials, I realized I liked the magnetic clasps much more.

8 – 5x11mm Silver Magnetic Clasps - $2.29

Needle-nose pliers

The pliers are for the crimp bead/3mm double cup connector. Apparently you can use crimping pliers to give a more finished look, but I just used basic needle-nose pliers – mind you, my closures are not the prettiest.

Already Owned - $0.00

One item that I think should be included is a good pair of scissors, a dull pair of scissors will cause your thread to fray and make it nearly impossible to thread through the necklace closures.

If you do not get a good pair of scissors, then you will need a lighter – the lighter will be used to singe the ends of the bead thread (I doubt this would work with the DMC thread).

She explains: After I got my materials, I sat down and stared at them for a good two days… then I got down to business. I am giving you instructions for what I did on my third and final rendition of this necklace. It is the easiest and best looking. Again, I am showing you what the marthastewart.com instructions called for in black, and what I did in red:

Button Necklace How-To

1. Fold the string in half, and create an end by tying two slipknots 2 inches down from the fold.

I have no idea why you would follow the instructions above – I just do not get it. So instead, first I took one end of the string and slipped it through one button hole, then I slid the button down 8 inches from the end of the string. To get the button to stay in place you will want to secure it with a slipknot. To make a slipknot, make a small loop to the right of the button and pass the button through the loop and tighten – voila.

Now you should have something that looks like this:

The right side should be much longer -- as shown in the picture.

2. Slip a button on one string. Tie another slipknot 1 inch from the previous knot. Repeat until you have 12 buttons on the string. (Sophie makes five strands for her necklace, but you can make as many or few as you like.) Trim the ends (not the looped end) 2 inches from the last knot.

Okay, slip another button on the string starting from the long end of the string – I made sure to face each button the same way, but I think it could also be fun to mix it up. One inch from the first button, attach your second button the same way you did the first – with a slipknot. I used my thumb to space out the buttons, you may want to experiment with how close together or far apart you space the buttons. Repeat until you have 12 buttons on the string. I used 4 strands for my necklace, but I found that three would do in a pinch. Now you just rinse and repeat. Do the same thing with three more pieces of string.

3. Gather all the ends together, and crimp in a crimp bead. Attach the necklace closure using a pair of needle-nose pliers.

Gather all the strands together and line up the buttons according to how you would like the necklace to look. Trim to make the ends of the strings line up even with each other. Take one end of your magnetic clasp and thread all of the ends through the opening, making a loop.

If you are having problems with the string fraying and you are using the bead thread, you can singe the ends with a lighter to prevent splitting. Once you have each end threaded through, use the 3mm connector to grab the necklace and the tail of the loop.

I know this is unorthodox, but I use my teeth to mash in the connector, and then I use the needle-nose plier to really mash it down.

By mashing the connector, you are ultimately fusing both sides of the loop together. Cut off the rest of the tail, do the same to the other side and done!

I hope you enjoyed this project and do not be afraid to experiment. I did a wonderful one in a green/jade buttons, too. -- Have a wonderful holiday! -- kate

* * * * * * * *

Kate is my daughter, and I fell in love with her necklaces. I thought you might like to try your hand at this, especially if you're looking to present a special someone something rather unique -- a piece made with love. Or make it for yourself! You've got your home looking festive and pretty, now it's your turn. What do you think?

If you have questions about the directions, I'm sure she'd be happy to help you. Just ask.

Merry! Merry!!

It's Beginning to Look a Little Bit Like Christmas

2011-12-19T23:24:00.000-06:00

O Tannenbaum,

Oh Christmas Tree

from Country Home, 2008

Christmas tree, o Christmas tree
How loyal are your leaves/needles!
You're green not only
in the summertime,
No, also in winter when it snows.
O Christmas tree, o Christmas tree
How loyal are your leaves/needles!

from Traditional Home, 2007

O Christmas tree, o Christmas tree
You can please me very much!

from Country Home, 2008

How often has not at Christmastime
A tree like you given me such joy!

from Country Home, 2008

O Christmas tree, o Christmas tree,
You can please me very much!

from Traditional Home, 2007

O Christmas tree, o Christmas tree

from British Home and Gardens

Your dress wants to
teach me something:

from Country Home, 2008

Your hope and durability
Provide comfort and strength
at any time.

from Country Home, 2008

O Christmas tree, o Christmas tree,

from Country Home, 2007

That's what your dress should
teach me.

3 Top Gifts -- for Home and Chocoholics

2011-12-17T17:58:00.001-06:00

My Sister Shops Months in Advance . . .

Darn Her!

But If You're More Like Me -- Still Scratching Off Names

on Your List, Take a Look at Some of My Favorite

Gift Ideas:

1. A Bayleaf-Rosemary Wreath

from:

Sale Ends 12/19 -- Hurry!

I have this exact same wreath (above) hanging in my kitchen. It's been there for a year! This is the kind of holiday gift I like: one that can bring cheer all year round. Something to think about for the cook in your family or the one with the green thumb. Or send it as a "thank you" after spending time with friends.

I I bought it from Organic Bouquet, because I liked the fact this company cares about the environment, and social and economic sustainability.

From their Web site: "Sustainably grown flowers are gentle on the earth and safeguard ecology, while sustainable, biodegradable, green packaging is innovative and stylish. All of Organic Bouquet’s products, from floral arrangements and gourmet gifts to unique home accessories, have been certified by third-party agencies, such as USDA, Fair Trade or Rainforest Alliance."

For more information about who they are and what they stand for, please click here.

2. Turn Your Photos into Artwork

from Easy Print Canvas

The photos above are two that I sent to Easy Print Canvases to turn into artwork.

Each came back on wrapped canvases, ready to hang. The first photo is of a friend of mine who just became a grandmother for the first time. I loved the moment, catching her looking adoringly at her own baby. I sent it to her as a gift. The second I snapped from my car window as we drove through New Mexico. It hangs in my bedroom. I love it because I like both the mountain states and, of course, I love the beach. It repletes me.

I like the personable flavor of this gift idea. It captures a unique time. At this time, it might be a gift that welcomes in the New Year or says "thank you" for having us. Sign up for their newsletter for cost-saving discounts!

3. Make Your Own Chocolate Bars

from Chocomize

As a big fan of dark chocolate (theirs is 73% cocoa), I was thrilled to come across this site and find that I could customize my own bars! I expect my order to appear on my doorstep sometime this week. I couldn't wait to take a nibble, I wanted to share it now with all you choco-fans. They offer milk and white chocolates, too.

I filled my bars with all types of goodies. You can choose from Nuts and Seeds. Fruits. Herbs and Spices. Candy. And other add-ons.

For more shopping -- and ideas, go here.

What are your favorite gift ideas? To receive and to give?

Remember: A few hours left to sign up for the Christmas Bear GiveAway. Go here for details.

San Miguel de Allende Ribbon Curtains -- And a "Martha Stewart" Home on a Budget

2011-12-14T23:33:00.001-06:00

First the New York Times,

Then The Today Show . . .

Both Featured a Couple Who Live off $20,000

a Year. And in Martha Stewart Style!!

Artist Michael Flemming lives in Maine with his partner, Jennifer Wurst, whom he says can easily stretch a nickel into a dollar. And one dollar into five. He told The Today Show in an interview this morning that the couple can be driving or walking down a street and Jennifer will invariably find something -- a treasure in her eyes -- on the side of the road. Of course, they pick it up to incorporate -- somehow -- into their clean but elegant decor.

The driftwood art on the left side on the dining room wall was made by the couple. They pay $600 in rent and everything in their home is re-purposed. If something breaks, then Michael fixes it. Their second highest expenditure, after the rent, is for groceries. They prepare all their meals, using fresh and healthy ingredients.

Jennifer says she feels they live well . . . purposefully and completely. They do have Internet, but they say no to cable TV. They split wood to keep warm, and the state provides their health care. She doesn't expect their life to change; after all, they have it all -- including a toddler son.

If you'd like to see and hear the TV interview with this couple and be further inspired, please click here.

For The New York Times slideshow, please click here.

The two photos shown on this post are from The NY Times.

Credit: Trent Bell for The New York Times.

I thought the Maine couple -- two rooms of their home are pictured above -- offered a rich and inspirational message. One that seemed worthy sharing with you all.

Ribbon Curtain Inspiration from San Miguel de Allende

My friend, Barbara -- recently sent me a couple of photos. She snapped them when visiting a mutual amiga. That friend -- Jan, has a home in the Texas Hill Country and a keen eye for design and detail. (I featured her outdoor kitchen and entertaining arena in a past post. She can see and read about it, here.

Barbara says Jan got the idea for her new window treatment (above) when visiting San Miguel de Allende last year or so.

The colorful ribbons offer such a fun and easy decorative solution for a door window that I had to share it! Install a rod and drap the ribbons over it. There you have it. You could tie them at the top, too. I might be inclined to do the latter. Then, anchor the ribbons with a variety of decorative beads -- as seen below.

Tying beads at the bottom of the ribbons help keep them all in place.

To create a festive mood for a party or occasion, you could also change out your windows with the seasons. Don't you think? Red, green and white for Christmas. Or how about gold, green and purple for Mardi Gras?

Thanks, Barbara -- and Jan!! -- this is such a cool idea!

Remember to Enter Our GiveAway.

A Few Days Left -- for a Handmade Christmas Bear!!

Go here for details.

GiveAway -- A Handmade Christmas Bear

2011-12-12T21:56:00.015-06:00

The Owner of Patchy Bears
Wants to Give Away a Cuddly Bear
She Made From Quilt Scraps --
to One Lucky Love Where You Live Visitor.

DONNA MARIE HAS WON!
Thank you all for participating!!

We're the only ones offering this GiveAway . . . which is Terrific news for you!!
It means if you live in the lower 48 states, you can easily enter. And, best of all, your odds of winning are really good!

Gretchen Hugen, owner of Patchy Bears, will give the winner the choice of ONE of the two Christmas bears shown below:

Who doesn't like a cute little bear? They're for all ages! And because they're one-of-a-kind, they are heirloom perfect. Get ready to hand down this fellow from one generation to another! Each are 18 inches tall and can be hand washed should they get smudged from too many hugs.

Gretchen began Patchy Bears almost 22 years ago, when she was pregnant with her daughter. You can learn more about Patchy Bears and Gretchen by visiting her Web site here .

She also makes custom bears for those who want to preserve a memory by turning old dresses or other materials into a keepsake bear. What a great idea for your great grandmother's handmade quilts! Or your child's first dress or big-boy pants.

How To Enter:
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Please Use the Form Above to Enter the Giveaway.
Click Here To Leave A Comment or Scroll Down to the bottom of the page.

Good luck everyone! The winner will be announced on Monday, Dec. 19. So check back -- an email will be sent to the winner! The winner: Donna Marie. Thank you all for participating!

A READER SHARES HIS WREATH

I love it when someone is inspired by something on this page (in this case it was the post on Holiday Wreaths, which you can read here). My friend -- and artist -- Carlos created this wreath below from champagne corks. He says he did it in one afternoon! Fabulous! It's a good reason to pop open some bubbly now! All for a creative cause....

A close up of the corks:

Cheers!

Chairs that Brighten Your Day -- and a Happy Home Decorating Mantra Worthy of Sharing

2011-12-10T17:11:00.004-06:00

My Friend Brenda Loves This Store:

5 Green Boxes

Even though they're located in Denver, you still might find it fun to visit online.

Brenda lives in Denver but enjoys retreating to the high country with her husband for long well-deserved weekends. It's here at the foot of the Sawatch Mountains that she has created a personable home that fully embodies loving where you live. One way she ensures such a blissful ambiance is by selecting furnishings and accessories that make her happy.

The table was designed and constructed by Dawn McEnany,a furniture maker living

in Salida, Colorado. (She also made stools for their kitchen island.)

She had 5 Green Boxes paint the legs of her French-country chairs and then reupholster them in the company's trademark boiled wool. Their artisans also added the button-adorned appliques, neatly joined together to construct a nature-inspired design:

Another chair that caught Brenda's eye serves up more inspiration -- for those of you looking for the next DIY project, or others who seek ways to invite color and creativity into their own homes:

Brenda and her husband follow a certain "decorating" mantra, which they've applied in both building and furnishing their happy home.

The first component: They try to buy locally as much as possible. Secondly, they infuse each room with art. They also like custom-made embellishments. And, finally, they appreciate using materials that don't deplete natural supplies.

When Brenda hosted a small breakfast gathering recently, it all centered around her kitchen made of beetle kill pine. The main island and ceiling (pictured below) are made of the beetle pine kill. The floors are scored concrete. And the counter tops are granite. (Just in case you wanted to know.)

The lights above the couple's kitchen sink were commissioned pieces. Click here for information on Brice Turnbull, a glass artist living in Salida, Colorado. For a closer look:

When visiting Tuscan, Arizona, Brenda discovered the talents offered by Santa Theresa Tile Works. She hired them to do a custom piece comprised of handmade tiles, which she had set in her kitchen back splash:

I also wanted to show the fireplace, constructed of local rock. They allowed a few of the rocks to jut forward to serve as shelving:

If you want to try something delicious, go here for Brenda's yummy blueberry muffin recipe -- one that's been handed down by her family through various generations. (She's updated it a bit to ensure it's tasty as well as healthy.)

Five Smart Decorating Tips From a San Diego Reader

2011-12-07T18:42:00.000-06:00

Building a House?

Stumped with a Design Dilemma?

A California Woman Takes Steps to Answer Similar Questions -- and in the Process

Validates Her Own Instincts.

A reader who lives in San Diego recently contacted me through email. After an exchange of thought regarding paint colors, she shared lessons learned during the process of building her second house. As a side, she wonders if three might be the charm. Thinking "yes," she anticipates tackling, perhaps, one more house project -- from the inside out, and top to bottom. She might be right! We all gain confidence by doing.

Chris Barrett Designs

Shelley -- from San Diego and who loves dogs -- sent along a photo that inspires her. It's a living room (pictured above) by Chris Barrett Designs in Los Angeles. She finds this room sophisticated yet relaxed -- just the kind of California living she enjoys.

Chris Barrett rooms convey a lot of personality, whether in relaxed way or in a bold manner -- as depicted with the jazzy tile work seen here:

Chris Barrett Designs

"I went to a design "workshop," when we were at the end stage of building our last home. The designer (and presenter) gave us lots of great tips for creating pleasing interiors. She gave us a handout called "Creating a Concept for Your Home," and it was full of great information," says Shelley.

(Because Shelley showed such inspiring taste when sharing the photo of the Chris Barrett living room, we're celebrating the firm's design savvy with a random look at her work throughout this post.)

Chris Barrett Designs

In the end, Shelley says, "I was pleased to discover that I actually had followed her (the designer/presenter) method without knowing that much about interior design planning.

Chris Barrett Designs

Shelley's "take" on what she learned at the designer workshop:

1. Collect magazines.

Look for pictures of rooms and interiors you like -- and also things -- and spaces -- you don't.

2. Get a binder.

Create a section for each of your rooms. Print out photos from blogs and Web sites. Tear pages from magazines. Place in a plastic sleeve in the binder. Look at it periodically for inspiration.

Shelley's binder.

3. Make a copy of your floor plan and keep it in the binder.

Make a special sleeve for paint color chips. Visit paint stores and select paint chips of colors you feel "drawn" to. You are training your eyes!

4. Save advertisements of places you want to visit

-- furniture stores, consignments shops etc. There are so many details on your mind when building and you may forget to go some places, and these could be where you'll see things you really like.

5. Make a page for each room in your house and list the things you will need

-- or that you think you'll want to buy for each room -- and beside each item write the amount you think you can spend. This gives you a handle on your budget. Keep this binder with you - it is your house "bible."

"When I started to get overwhelmed at the tile store, Lowe's, or even at home when shopping for materials online, I just flipped through my binder, which re-affirmed what I wanted," says Shelley.

Chris Barrett Designs

"Use idea books and magazines as a starting-off point, but go with your own hunches regarding details. After all, it’s your own home; it should be pleasing to you, first and foremost," says Shelley.

"I learned you want to develop an overall decorating concept based on color, theme and furnishings so that your home is cohesive -- and so that one room unites with the other," says Shelley.

Decorating started to come together for Shelley, "when I listened to my own instincts."

Such great tips and advice. Well said, Shelley!!

Thank you for the email and conversation.

For more information on Chris Barrett Designs, click here. She and her firm have

had their work featured in most of the major shelter publications.

also...

A new recipe posted in Eating Cheap and Healthy.

Click here to find the recipe for Quinoa Turkey Chili. Hearty and Delicious!

and finally . . .

One day left to enter our pillow giveaway from Inmod.

Click here for details. Good luck.

Holiday Wreath Ideas -- Plus Some DIY Ones

2011-12-04T10:34:00.000-06:00

Traditional Home and Martha Stewart

Join a Few Do-It-Yourself Buffs

On This Showy List of Festive Wreaths

If you're decorating to celebrate one of several holidays this month, you might find some of the wreath ideas below worthy of consideration. Some even might work beyond this merry time with a few appropriate change-outs (i.e. removing the bows) -- to hang in your kitchen, brighten winter days, usher in spring, or to celebrate an occasion.

Some of the wreath ideas found in my mailbox this week:

Traditional Home Presents 50 ideas:

(below are a few)

By Designer Barry Dixon --made for the guestroom at the White House.

Turn your bedroom into a festive retreat. Just a few holiday appointments can ensure the holiday spirit lives throughout your home.

Oranges and pomegranates mixed in with colorful leaves greet visitors.

But the homeowner also placed the same wreath inside. Great idea! See below.:

A great idea here to place the wreath indoors as well!

It mirrors the same one placed outside (see above).

Dress up your dining room.

A wreath hanging over a mirror looks especially nice.

Designer Sandy Lucas did the Christmas decor below in this Houston home. It was a project that I had the great fun of working on two years ago. It appeared in Traditional Home magazine last year. In the heart of the home, the kitchen:

Simple green wreaths hang, via glittery ribbons, at the back doors.

To see the post, click here.

Martha Stewart's 41 Wreath Ideas.

(along with how-to-do-it information)

Fill your home with the light scent of rosemary or bay laurel.

Remove the bow and hang for post-holiday enjoyment, too.

For DIY instruction, click here.

These pepperberry wreaths look especially nice and cheery decorating this staircase.

For instruction, go here.

Martha Stewart's jolly fun idea using red carnations. Go here for the "recipe."

You could buy these jingle bell wreaths already made at a craft store or you can make your own. Click here for how-to steps. Enjoy the light tinkling sounds when visitors enter.

My daughter, Kate, found this one using peppermint candies. It's cheap to do, fun and lively:

From the blog, Procrastination Station. Click here for the how-to information.

I think this blogger said this whole project cost her $1 to make! Wow!

Kate also found this one below, which she shared on Delicious -- a fun social bookmark. You can see all the wreath ideas she found by clicking here. (You might have to sign up to follow, but we have a lot of fun stacking up our favorites -- whether it's outdoor rooms, kitchens, DIY projects -- or wreaths!)

A little nature inspiration from the blog, Shabby Love.

You can click here to see what she did using small branches found on the ground in her own yard.

This monogram wreath from the blog, Dittle Daddle, made our list last year:

(If you'd like to see that post, which includes additional ideas, please click here.)

In closing, I'd like to invite you to enter our Pillow GiveAway. We're picking a lucky winner on Friday, Dec. 9. Your chances are good!! Click here to enter. Show us some love by supporting our generous GiveAway sponsor.

The pillow you win is customized by you! InMod

is allowing the winner to create their own, using their large variety of templates and colors. These above are just some ideas of what can be done.

GiveAway -- Very Cool Customized Pillow

2011-12-01T16:22:00.005-06:00

Oh My! I've Had Fun Creating My Own Pillow Design.

I Think My New Favorite To-Go Place For Customized

and Hip Products is InMod

-- an online store filled with modern furniture, lighting and decor.

A 18x18 PILLOW GIVEAWAY!!! From InMod.

Read below for the details.

Seriously, this is a fun place. InMod -- where you can design your own bedding! And create your own pillow designs! All so easy, too. And then when you're finished being the designer, you'll want to check out their Deals page; just click on the so-named tab on this page here. Before I show you some of the tantalizing finds you'll discover on this site, let's talk about the GiveAway! yahoo.

InMod is giving away one pillow to one lucky person living in the 48 contiguous states.

Perhaps you recently saw their Design Studio pillows and bedding on the Today Show? Whether you win the pillow or not, check out the process:

So what you do is go to Design Your Own Pillow on InMod. First, select a design category and then choose from one of many styles (animals, flowers, abstracts and etc.). Like so:

The first step in the design process. Select a design.

(My screenshot.)

As a customer, you have two sizes from which to choose. An 18x18 and 26x26. (The winner of the giveaway receives a 18x18 pillow that he or she designs.) From there, decide what fabric you like: cotton, linen or silk. Prompts then will ask you to pick one

to several colors needed to fill in and complete your design.

I created some above, so you could see. Chances are your pillow will be one-of-a-kind. Prices vary, primary based on the fabric selected.

To Enter for the 18x18 Pillow GiveAway:

(you can enter once or three times)

1.Leave a comment below.

(if you have any problems, please let me know by sending me an email.)

2. For a second entry, go to InMod by clicking here. Return to Love Where You Live

and leave another, separate comment, saying what you found on the site that you liked.

3. Tweet or share on your Facebook page.

Return here to Love Where You Live and tell me.

One person will be selected randomly on Thursday, Dec. 8.

The winner will be announced on Friday, Dec. 9.

You then will be asked to design your pillow.

Please remember to provide your email or to check back that Friday.

Some fun products found on the Deals page:

Stackable chairs

$69

Spuntnik Light

$329.99

Did I mention FREE SHIPPING? That's a big deal. And no re-stocking fees or taxes. As a thank you for the GiveAway, I hope you'll visit them -- and find something you can't live without. No doubt! They've got a packed online shop, featuring tables, desks, outdoor furniture (for adults and children), bedroom pieces, and more.

BOOK REVIEW

Do It Yourself 100+ Paint Projects

by the staff at Better Homes and Garden

I think you'll like this book!

I've pulled some project samples that you can see by clicking here -- or you can go to the Shopping Page whenever you like.

I like it when Do-It-Yourself projects are easy. In this case, most require five or fewer steps! How great is that?! And what a deal at $14.29! It might be just the gift your DIY friend, husband, sister -- or whomever -- might want this holiday season.

HOW TO MAKE ADD A LITTLE HOLIDAY SPARKLE TO BASIC VOTIVE HOLDERS:

1. Use scrap booking stickers to create a design on plain glass votive holders -- or hurricane glass.

2. In a well-ventilated area, spray the glass with silver metallic paint.

3. When dry, peel off the stickers. Add other sparkles, such as glass stones or rhinestones.

GOOD LUCK with the giveaway! And thanks to InMod.

REBECCA won the pillow. Congratulations! And many thanks to all who participated.
And thanks to Inmod, once again!

Island Style -- The Quintessential Cottage

2011-11-29T00:55:00.002-06:00

Galveston Island

-- Almost an Hour's Drive From Houston --

Lands on These Pages Again.

Twice This Week, In Fact.

This South Texas island was one of three major U.S. ports during the mid- to late 1880s.

Residents arrived here from all parts of the world. As they settled, they made architecture

a passion and a rite of passage.

I pulled on my coat today (it's a little chilly here in Colorado) and walked out and upward to our glorified outbuilding, where I hoped to find some wrapping paper. Not surprisingly, I got distracted and found myself nosing around in a few boxes. That's when I found an old issue of a magazine called Do It Yourself. It's part of a stored collection that includes projects I've worked on for Meredith Publishing. As I flipped through the pages, I stumbled on The HOUSE. I mean look at it; it's got that whole island vibe going on -- both inside and out.

In addition to the delicate-looking fretwork and the original shutters flanking windows tall enough where visitors could walk through -- not to mention the towering palm trees and little picket fence -- this rather modest cottage is also bold.

The front parlor.

The homeowner selected a color palette that reminded her of the Caribbean. She chose a constant black to create drama and sophistication in a setting filled with botanicals, whites, nature-inspired prints, wicker, sisal rugs and palm leaves tucked in vases -- all those comforts that remind us of an island lifestyle.

The sofa faces the settee in the previous photo.

As a strong and striking counterpart to the black seen in upholstery selections, furniture -- and even the fireplace mantels and surrounds, she chose a pinky coral color to create a tropical mood. (This is a twist to the slightly earlier post on Black and White.)

A quick tour of the house, where you'll also see sage greens, yellows and grays:

The family room.

The foyer.

The master bedroom.

A small breakfast area in the kitchen.

View into the kitchen.

There you have it, my idea of the quintessential island cottage, thanks to its renowned architect, Nicholas Clayton, who included inviting verandahs at the front and in the back of the house. You can learn about him and see some of his grander projects here and here. I might add that rumor has it, he built this cottage for a mistress of a client.

Any thoughts to share?

Photos by Alise O'Brien