Happy New Year!

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cGLPXLguDds/UKVuOnRbv9I/AAAAAAAADAs/SB50XG4pED8/s1600/New-Year.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cGLPXLguDds/UKVuOnRbv9I/AAAAAAAADAs/SB50XG4pED8/s400/New-Year.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Happy New Year, dear readers!  I hope that you and yours have a wonderful end to 2012 and start of 2013.  I plan on snuggling up in the Big Apple with my two little apples and their super cuddly dad.  There will be champagne, reflecting on the past, and looking toward the future.  And I will tuck in early to dream of design (yes, I dream of design several nights per week) and send my best wishes out to all for an aesthetically lovely 2013!

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year, dear readers!  I hope that you and yours have a wonderful end to 2012 and start of 2013.  I plan on snuggling up in the Big ...

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Seasonal Spills

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MORYkaX4uWw/UKVsbUA-LFI/AAAAAAAADAM/YN2p9OOA3S8/s1600/lowe-indigo-leather-side-chair-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MORYkaX4uWw/UKVsbUA-LFI/AAAAAAAADAM/YN2p9OOA3S8/s320/lowe-indigo-leather-side-chair-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OBlx3ZqQ2wo/UKVsbnWreZI/AAAAAAAADAU/oUHDpbs2M4c/s1600/lowe-indigo-leather-side-chair-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OBlx3ZqQ2wo/UKVsbnWreZI/AAAAAAAADAU/oUHDpbs2M4c/s400/lowe-indigo-leather-side-chair-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>I love leather dining chairs--not just because they are comfortable to sit on, but also because you can wipe off spills.  This holiday did Grandma get cranberry sauce on your seat?  No worries if you had Crate and Barrel's Lowe Indigo Leather Side Chairs ($179, was $199).  A clean seat is no more than a wipe away.  Hooray!

Seasonal Spills

I love leather dining chairs--not just because they are comfortable to sit on, but also because you can wipe off spills.  This holiday did G...

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Shhh!!

<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings></xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves>false</w:TrackMoves> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing> <w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing> <w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:DontAutofitConstrainedTables/> <w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/> </w:Compatibility> </w:WordDocument></xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="276"> </w:LatentStyles></xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 10]><style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style><![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> <br /><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MqN_zWRCO8g/UKVL8Pj9ltI/AAAAAAAAC_I/iNslPngRaXU/s1600/4-square-hot-orange-starter-set-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MqN_zWRCO8g/UKVL8Pj9ltI/AAAAAAAAC_I/iNslPngRaXU/s320/4-square-hot-orange-starter-set-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tw9ZFB_QOXU/UKVL9L1eXoI/AAAAAAAAC_Q/GgE-1wyDPlU/s1600/4-square-hot-orange-starter-set.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tw9ZFB_QOXU/UKVL9L1eXoI/AAAAAAAAC_Q/GgE-1wyDPlU/s400/4-square-hot-orange-starter-set.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 17px;"><br /></span></div><br /> <div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-size: 13pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Don’t tell:  my mom is incredibly square—very traditional.  So imagine my surprise when she asked for square dishes for Christmas.  That’s an awfully modern choice for a not-so-modern lady.  But, as a good daughter, I am happy to get her what she wants.  And, as a good designer, I am happy she is updating her look.  So she’s getting CB2’s 4-Square Starter Set from us ($79, was $99).</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri; font-weight: bold;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><!--EndFragment-->

Shhh!!

Don’t tell:  my mom is incredibly square—very traditional.  So imagine my surprise when she asked for square dishes for Christ...

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Merry, Merry to ME!

<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings></xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves>false</w:TrackMoves> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing> <w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing> <w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:DontAutofitConstrainedTables/> <w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/> </w:Compatibility> </w:WordDocument></xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="276"> </w:LatentStyles></xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 10]><style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style><![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p3p2sTagQaQ/UKVKUN7HVGI/AAAAAAAAC-4/uOUJHR-syro/s1600/L11260323.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p3p2sTagQaQ/UKVKUN7HVGI/AAAAAAAAC-4/uOUJHR-syro/s320/L11260323.jpg" width="86" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wq8GNfTkvKw/UKVKV5sBObI/AAAAAAAAC_A/Sz7deodLeSU/s1600/MLB11260323.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wq8GNfTkvKw/UKVKV5sBObI/AAAAAAAAC_A/Sz7deodLeSU/s400/MLB11260323.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 17px;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-size: 13pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">In this time of buying gifts for everyone else, can’t I buy something for myself?  Let me rephrase that, for my family.  We need a runner for our long hallway (who doesn’t), and I’ve been lusting after Overstock’s Rodeo Drive Patchwork 9’ Runner.  And now that it’s $109 (was $170), it will be mine!!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri; font-weight: bold;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><!--EndFragment-->

Merry, Merry to ME!

In this time of buying gifts for everyone else, can’t I buy something for myself?  Let me rephrase that, for my family.  We need a runn...

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Look Learned

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yJgF8tEUFDU/UKVtD1TRGhI/AAAAAAAADAc/JJBbhd150L8/s1600/morethingslikethis_book.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yJgF8tEUFDU/UKVtD1TRGhI/AAAAAAAADAc/JJBbhd150L8/s400/morethingslikethis_book.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h8fz5_6WPEE/UKVtEl6Z1jI/AAAAAAAADAk/78x8jlB5PAM/s1600/morethingslikethis_book2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h8fz5_6WPEE/UKVtEl6Z1jI/AAAAAAAADAk/78x8jlB5PAM/s640/morethingslikethis_book2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Wanna look learned this holiday season when company comes over?  Buy a coffee table book that costs as much as just a few cups of coffee.  I recommend Bludot's Hardback, More Things Like This.  It is a little obtuse and has a low price of $15 (was $35).  Perfect!

Look Learned

Wanna look learned this holiday season when company comes over?  Buy a coffee table book that costs as much as just a few cups of coffee.  I...

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Pretty Palette

<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings></xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves>false</w:TrackMoves> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing> <w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing> <w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:DontAutofitConstrainedTables/> <w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/> </w:Compatibility> </w:WordDocument></xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="276"> </w:LatentStyles></xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 10]><style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style><![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pPHtQdSHC_I/UKVKC1uWyKI/AAAAAAAAC-o/vk_36x33Dmo/s1600/zm_leaf-pillows.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="284" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pPHtQdSHC_I/UKVKC1uWyKI/AAAAAAAAC-o/vk_36x33Dmo/s320/zm_leaf-pillows.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UMxGDR3Nq2I/UKVKDf-MvTI/AAAAAAAAC-s/SgLZASpIMI4/s1600/zm_sunflower-plw-side_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="353" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UMxGDR3Nq2I/UKVKDf-MvTI/AAAAAAAAC-s/SgLZASpIMI4/s400/zm_sunflower-plw-side_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-size: 13pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I am always looking for an inspiration piece to set the color palette for a room I am working on.  Sometimes it is artwork, sometimes it is a rug, and sometimes it is a multi-colored pillow like VivaTerra’s Sunflower and Floating Leaf Pillow ($24, was $59).</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri; font-weight: bold;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><!--EndFragment-->

Pretty Palette

I am always looking for an inspiration piece to set the color palette for a room I am working on.  Sometimes it is artwork, sometimes i...

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Eden Again!

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N4Dhv31NKKo/UMjVGZsUhBI/AAAAAAAADD8/tVT-PdOdHWU/s1600/184412_10151148197227563_871083855_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N4Dhv31NKKo/UMjVGZsUhBI/AAAAAAAADD8/tVT-PdOdHWU/s400/184412_10151148197227563_871083855_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>Bundled up and loving our maternity leave, Eden and I are spending our time reading back issues of "House Beautiful", baking brownies, and napping.  This is the life:  strolling the streets of Brooklyn, looking adorable and sporting a fabulous hat!

Eden Again!

Bundled up and loving our maternity leave, Eden and I are spending our time reading back issues of "House Beautiful", baking brown...

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The Answer!

<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings></xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves>false</w:TrackMoves> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing> <w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing> <w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:DontAutofitConstrainedTables/> <w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/> </w:Compatibility> </w:WordDocument></xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="276"> </w:LatentStyles></xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 10]><style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style><![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pPcBeH_fHXk/UKVJwf4zzCI/AAAAAAAAC-g/GXaNnU3ZlIc/s1600/img43o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pPcBeH_fHXk/UKVJwf4zzCI/AAAAAAAAC-g/GXaNnU3ZlIc/s400/img43o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 17px;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-size: 13pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Wondering where to display photos?  Where to stash DVDs?  Where to put bins of toys?  What to do with your miniature chair collection?  Put them all in a TV unit!  Yes, a TV unit is almost always the answer.  And Pottery Barn’s Logan Small Media Suite is the answer for a traditional-style apartment now that it’s $2,200 (was $2,600).</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri; font-weight: bold;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><!--EndFragment-->

The Answer!

Wondering where to display photos?  Where to stash DVDs?  Where to put bins of toys?  What to do with your miniature chair colle...

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Paranoid

<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings></xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves>false</w:TrackMoves> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing> <w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing> <w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:DontAutofitConstrainedTables/> <w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/> </w:Compatibility> </w:WordDocument></xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="276"> </w:LatentStyles></xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 10]><style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style><![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5WwVHT-qph8/UKVJaSmvbrI/AAAAAAAAC-Q/3JzeQROmG9I/s1600/phpThumb_generated_thumbnail-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5WwVHT-qph8/UKVJaSmvbrI/AAAAAAAAC-Q/3JzeQROmG9I/s320/phpThumb_generated_thumbnail-1.jpeg" width="278" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5h5BZfXQJWI/UKVJat-CIQI/AAAAAAAAC-Y/gkqmeZC4dF0/s1600/phpThumb_generated_thumbnail.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5h5BZfXQJWI/UKVJat-CIQI/AAAAAAAAC-Y/gkqmeZC4dF0/s400/phpThumb_generated_thumbnail.jpeg" width="347" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 17px;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-size: 13pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Is anyone else constantly paranoid that the drink on their desk will spill and destroy their laptop or is it just me?  My desk is small, my computer is vital, and I cannot afford an accident.  But I can afford Fred Flare’s Portable Drink Klip ($9, was $22)—it’s a small price to pay to put my mind at ease.</span><b style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div><!--EndFragment-->

Paranoid

Is anyone else constantly paranoid that the drink on their desk will spill and destroy their laptop or is it just me?  My desk is small...

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Deck the Walls

<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings></xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves>false</w:TrackMoves> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing> <w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing> <w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:DontAutofitConstrainedTables/> <w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/> </w:Compatibility> </w:WordDocument></xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="276"> </w:LatentStyles></xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 10]><style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style><![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dswwkEQK5vo/UKVJC6IkJfI/AAAAAAAAC-I/Rc_O0otGlzk/s1600/CRL1231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dswwkEQK5vo/UKVJC6IkJfI/AAAAAAAAC-I/Rc_O0otGlzk/s400/CRL1231.jpg" width="285" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 17px;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-size: 13pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Now that Thanksgiving is behind us, we can start thinking about and prepping for Christmas (and Hanukah and Kwanza and Festivus!)  To get in the spirit, I start with design.  Why not buy a couple of At West End’s Wall-Mounted Teardrop Vases ($7 each, were $14), and fill them with sprigs of holly or stems of poinsettias?</span><b style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div><!--EndFragment-->

Deck the Walls

Now that Thanksgiving is behind us, we can start thinking about and prepping for Christmas (and Hanukah and Kwanza and Festivus!...

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Sweet Dreams

<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings></xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves>false</w:TrackMoves> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing> <w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing> <w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:DontAutofitConstrainedTables/> <w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/> </w:Compatibility> </w:WordDocument></xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="276"> </w:LatentStyles></xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 10]><style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style><![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F8-X7U03yUE/UKVIVnz3elI/AAAAAAAAC94/WHSpKyy09FY/s1600/img35o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F8-X7U03yUE/UKVIVnz3elI/AAAAAAAAC94/WHSpKyy09FY/s320/img35o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 17px;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UXRuxvf9dyY/UKVIoShmb7I/AAAAAAAAC-A/ng8kB6p3olY/s1600/img22b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UXRuxvf9dyY/UKVIoShmb7I/AAAAAAAAC-A/ng8kB6p3olY/s400/img22b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-size: 13pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">With a newborn in the house, I am not getting much sleep.  But hopefully, all my faithful readers are resting peacefully.  In case you are not, consider upgrading your nightstands.  I always recommend one with storage like West Elm’s Roebling Nightstand ($179, was $249).</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri; font-weight: bold;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><!--EndFragment-->

Sweet Dreams

With a newborn in the house, I am not getting much sleep.  But hopefully, all my faithful readers are resting peacefully.  In case you ...

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Eden Victoria Helmuth

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZtQtd57-_wA/ULP8LijjWnI/AAAAAAAADC4/GiO-5Zgv8nA/s1600/securedownload-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZtQtd57-_wA/ULP8LijjWnI/AAAAAAAADC4/GiO-5Zgv8nA/s400/securedownload-1.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hsmaMBU-CXM/ULP8MyA8KxI/AAAAAAAADDA/pWWnw0cATco/s1600/securedownload.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hsmaMBU-CXM/ULP8MyA8KxI/AAAAAAAADDA/pWWnw0cATco/s400/securedownload.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div>Instead of a measuring tape, this month I am spending my time holding my adorable bundle joy, Eden Victoria Helmuth.  She doesn't look a thing like her daddy or me--more like a cross between John Travolta and a sumo wrestler.  But we have definitely bonded and so I will keep her.  The training on how to pick paint colors and furniture upholstery begins right after our nap....

Eden Victoria Helmuth

Instead of a measuring tape, this month I am spending my time holding my adorable bundle joy, Eden Victoria Helmuth.  She doesn't look a...

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A Classic!

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iUycmJ8jq4A/UKU9GHIsKxI/AAAAAAAAC8w/l6vJdggmMgQ/s1600/langdon-mirror-silver-100012171.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iUycmJ8jq4A/UKU9GHIsKxI/AAAAAAAAC8w/l6vJdggmMgQ/s320/langdon-mirror-silver-100012171.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pz9-MoQyfn0/UKU9G0ZeNvI/AAAAAAAAC84/sk_XMzGDDco/s1600/langdon-mirror-silver-100012171_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pz9-MoQyfn0/UKU9G0ZeNvI/AAAAAAAAC84/sk_XMzGDDco/s400/langdon-mirror-silver-100012171_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>A mirror is a magical thing.  It adds illumination to a space by reflecting lamp light, it can serve as a second window, and it is preframed.  So this wall hanging is typically cheaper than similarly-sized art.  So when I find a great one on sale like ZGallerie's Langdon Mirror ($175, was $350), I sing its praises. Tra-la-la!!!

A Classic!

A mirror is a magical thing.  It adds illumination to a space by reflecting lamp light, it can serve as a second window, and it is preframed...

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She's Here!!!

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ffvNtCanlp4/UKJ2Y-xacRI/AAAAAAAAC7Y/ox39NxWh4Pk/s1600/zig-zag-stocking-green-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ffvNtCanlp4/UKJ2Y-xacRI/AAAAAAAAC7Y/ox39NxWh4Pk/s320/zig-zag-stocking-green-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jATDoTntLYA/UKJ2ZWEzyEI/AAAAAAAAC7g/kPzIU6wW51w/s1600/zig-zag-stocking-green.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jATDoTntLYA/UKJ2ZWEzyEI/AAAAAAAAC7g/kPzIU6wW51w/s400/zig-zag-stocking-green.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Our little Eden Helmuth arrived yesterday.  She is sweet and lovely, and we are smitten.  We are also tired.  Too tired to post a pic quite yet (coming soon).  However, I am never too tired to blog.  This one is for you, Eden.  You have arrived just in time for the holidays so we need to add your stocking to the mantel.  How about Land of Nod's Zig Zag Stocking in teal?  One day you will come to appreciate the fact that it is both cute and on sale ($19, was $25)--two very important design qualities.  So much to learn, my tiny love!

She's Here!!!

Our little Eden Helmuth arrived yesterday.  She is sweet and lovely, and we are smitten.  We are also tired.  Too tired to post a pic quite ...

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Addicted to Anthropologie

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EY48UnklwfA/UKJ5G-zGgEI/AAAAAAAAC7w/SNuqcg79EPc/s1600/A25157496_095_b.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EY48UnklwfA/UKJ5G-zGgEI/AAAAAAAAC7w/SNuqcg79EPc/s320/A25157496_095_b.jpeg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9zw-DSEdFFQ/UKJ5HXC70aI/AAAAAAAAC74/0lTW_vSRiGI/s1600/A25157496_095_m1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9zw-DSEdFFQ/UKJ5HXC70aI/AAAAAAAAC74/0lTW_vSRiGI/s400/A25157496_095_m1.jpeg" width="266" /></a></div>Yes, I will admit that I am addicted to Anthropologie.  Not everything.  In fact, 95% of their items are overpriced and totally impractical.  But that small 5%, in other words the sale pillows, capture my heart and imagination like no other.  Yummy!  And I own a couple.  So I can vouch for the fact that they are adorably life-changing.  Buy their Switchgrass Square Pillow ($79, was $198) and report back.  I'd love to hear how their pillows transform your sofa and life!!!!

Addicted to Anthropologie

Yes, I will admit that I am addicted to Anthropologie.  Not everything.  In fact, 95% of their items are overpriced and totally impractical....

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Missing the Light

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3Cs_ydEStDc/UKJ0qvD37DI/AAAAAAAAC7I/oZkiVbvDYB4/s1600/img30o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3Cs_ydEStDc/UKJ0qvD37DI/AAAAAAAAC7I/oZkiVbvDYB4/s320/img30o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aV1NYcn0bQw/UKJ0rc33fmI/AAAAAAAAC7Q/eKLJrbnaz2s/s1600/img39o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aV1NYcn0bQw/UKJ0rc33fmI/AAAAAAAAC7Q/eKLJrbnaz2s/s400/img39o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Now that it gets dark at 4:30pm here in NYC, I am really missing the light.  I feel the need to turn on every light in the afternoon to make up for my much-loved sun.  And, of course, the fixtures should be as pleasing as the light they let off.  For instance, it is the perfect time to invest in a sculptural beauty like West Elm's Long Arm Chandelier ($129, was $299).  The more bulbs the merrier!!

Missing the Light

Now that it gets dark at 4:30pm here in NYC, I am really missing the light.  I feel the need to turn on every light in the afternoon to make...

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I am on leave!

With my baby due in only 8 short days, I am officially on leave (a.k.a. putting my business on hold) until mid/late January.  But don't worry, blog readers, I am still going to blog--just not as frequently.  Instead of 5 times/week, I am only going to add new entries on Monday and Thursday.  Yep, mama needs a rest and time to enjoy her newest lil' designer.  Here's todays entry:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y1tFuYet2zM/UKJzOVZGbEI/AAAAAAAAC7A/foIjeU4u8vo/s1600/img82o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="352" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y1tFuYet2zM/UKJzOVZGbEI/AAAAAAAAC7A/foIjeU4u8vo/s400/img82o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>With Eden on the brain, I am thinking about my nursery design.  It is heavily baby boy, perfect for my son not so welcoming for my arriving girl.  How I wish that I could gracefully incorporate the pink of PBKids' Hippo and Giraffe Canvas Art ($59, were $129).  I am loving the pastel colors and the retro vibe.

I am on leave!

With my baby due in only 8 short days, I am officially on leave (a.k.a. putting my business on hold) until mid/late January.  But don't ...

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Happy Birthday to Me!

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lPOsFtMO4AM/UJ1bgSultmI/AAAAAAAAC6A/_3eB-pbsH1w/s1600/3819575798_c601769994.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="357" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lPOsFtMO4AM/UJ1bgSultmI/AAAAAAAAC6A/_3eB-pbsH1w/s400/3819575798_c601769994.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pM-mIAzUBR0/UJ1bhHPfM4I/AAAAAAAAC6I/lMlB09zrw_w/s1600/422252_4375019538486_602447840_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pM-mIAzUBR0/UJ1bhHPfM4I/AAAAAAAAC6I/lMlB09zrw_w/s400/422252_4375019538486_602447840_n.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>Another day of no design posts because it is my birthday--just 12 days before the birthday of my little gal.  Living it up during these last days of rest, starting with dinner at Serendipity 3 with my love.  There will be presents, crepes, and of course frozen hot chocolate.  Now that's a birthday!!!!!!!!

Happy Birthday to Me!

Another day of no design posts because it is my birthday--just 12 days before the birthday of my little gal.  Living it up during these last...

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Where's the Design?

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nFqyeLE3cY0/UJqN6fsf8AI/AAAAAAAAC5I/mKVCckZZBSc/s1600/344a6589639a301f200f6a7067007294.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nFqyeLE3cY0/UJqN6fsf8AI/AAAAAAAAC5I/mKVCckZZBSc/s400/344a6589639a301f200f6a7067007294.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>We have had so much going on (Hurricane Sandy, my sweet dog dying, Election Day, election results) that I haven't been blogging about design much lately.  And now here's another day of news instead of new sale items.  I just want to take a minute to celebrate Obama's big win last night and to rest.  This mama stayed up a little too late last night watching the returns.  Back to design tomorrow--barring any major news, of course.

Where's the Design?

We have had so much going on (Hurricane Sandy, my sweet dog dying, Election Day, election results) that I haven't been blogging about de...

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Election Day!

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pGNPjTmrqyo/UJmbTUBpHTI/AAAAAAAAC4Q/7A-XrGLR02M/s1600/election-day.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="398" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pGNPjTmrqyo/UJmbTUBpHTI/AAAAAAAAC4Q/7A-XrGLR02M/s400/election-day.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Between the hurricane, my beloved dog dying, wrapping up work before my maternity leave began today, and the election, I have been delinquent in blogging.  A designer who is 9-months pregnant gets a pass, right?  But I did not take a pass on voting today.  I went to the polls this afternoon and only waited 5 minutes to vote.  Hopefully, you had a breeze of an election day, too!

Election Day!

Between the hurricane, my beloved dog dying, wrapping up work before my maternity leave began today, and the election, I have been delinquen...

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One More Day...

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lmD5U_0Wxrw/UJHmgW-YMxI/AAAAAAAAC3Y/ywCLNRFUTfg/s1600/24731_329592052562_6498103_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lmD5U_0Wxrw/UJHmgW-YMxI/AAAAAAAAC3Y/ywCLNRFUTfg/s640/24731_329592052562_6498103_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>I need one more day to remember my beloved 18 year-old grump.  He may have been a curmudgeon.  But he was mama's curmudgeon.  And we loved each other very much.  So I am devoting one last blog to his memory and showing my favorite picture of my lil' design muse.

One More Day...

I need one more day to remember my beloved 18 year-old grump.  He may have been a curmudgeon.  But he was mama's curmudgeon.  And we lov...

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Too Blue to Blog

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R6zJ6N-I1o0/UJHkybFeYHI/AAAAAAAAC3I/h9Y-27q7MOk/s1600/14205_10151099007552563_117708479_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R6zJ6N-I1o0/UJHkybFeYHI/AAAAAAAAC3I/h9Y-27q7MOk/s400/14205_10151099007552563_117708479_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gTa8ZJjTZpU/UJHk0vEchgI/AAAAAAAAC3Q/M_pvpkad6_0/s1600/545277_10151099004562563_2010109755_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gTa8ZJjTZpU/UJHk0vEchgI/AAAAAAAAC3Q/M_pvpkad6_0/s640/545277_10151099004562563_2010109755_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Hurricane Sandy hit us hard this week.  Luckily, we didn't lose power or any possessions.  But the day after the big storm, my sweet love, Evander, passed away.  He was there for me 7 years ago when I started my business, 2 years ago when I met my husband, 1 year ago when I had my son.  Evander, my chihuahua, weathered good times and bad with me.  And I miss him so much.  So today I am simply to sad to blog about anything else.

Too Blue to Blog

Hurricane Sandy hit us hard this week.  Luckily, we didn't lose power or any possessions.  But the day after the big storm, my sweet lov...

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Happy Halloween!

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H_J7FsPdyTg/UJHjdReMvQI/AAAAAAAAC3A/oxqTNkNn8iw/s1600/183848_10151100283817563_1347101073_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H_J7FsPdyTg/UJHjdReMvQI/AAAAAAAAC3A/oxqTNkNn8iw/s400/183848_10151100283817563_1347101073_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>Our little monkey hit the streets of Brooklyn tonight, checking out other costumes and watching his daddy eat his candy.  In other words, today was a day of frolicking and not of design.  Hope you all had a Happy Halloween, as well!

Happy Halloween!

Our little monkey hit the streets of Brooklyn tonight, checking out other costumes and watching his daddy eat his candy.  In other words, to...

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TMI Tuesday: Missing My Show

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yS3IQsITxeM/UIge-_Jcw9I/AAAAAAAAC0Q/3P2E5me-Cbo/s1600/phpThumb_generated_thumbnail-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yS3IQsITxeM/UIge-_Jcw9I/AAAAAAAAC0Q/3P2E5me-Cbo/s400/phpThumb_generated_thumbnail-1.jpeg" width="347" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ddoRdRk1o5g/UIge_kxiRrI/AAAAAAAAC0k/vDAG4iU-AcY/s1600/phpThumb_generated_thumbnail.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ddoRdRk1o5g/UIge_kxiRrI/AAAAAAAAC0k/vDAG4iU-AcY/s640/phpThumb_generated_thumbnail.jpeg" width="556" /></a></div>Is anyone else but me sad that "Project Runway"'s Season 10 has come to an end?  It is my favorite show on TV, and it will be many months before its return (no, "Allstars" is not the same).  So I am blue.  And Fred Flare's Sewing Kit Throw Pillow ($19, was $30) got me all excited.  I am not even convinced I like the look or think it is good design.  But because it has made me nostalgic, I'm endorsing it today.

TMI Tuesday: Missing My Show

Is anyone else but me sad that "Project Runway"'s Season 10 has come to an end?  It is my favorite show on TV, and it will be ...

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Naughty Word Monday: Slipcover

Today I am featuring the first in a new series of posts on my blog:  Naughty Word Mondays.  When visiting clients, they often use naughty words that make me cringe.  I will share them with you on Mondays in the hopes that they will no longer be in use very soon.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gxE6fXgsZUU/UIghotdiCmI/AAAAAAAAC18/gk6xjfZyt8c/s1600/info_slipcover_1_big.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gxE6fXgsZUU/UIghotdiCmI/AAAAAAAAC18/gk6xjfZyt8c/s400/info_slipcover_1_big.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UBZXveD8FjQ/UIghrChoMII/AAAAAAAAC2E/ZskeHObGzH8/s1600/fold0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UBZXveD8FjQ/UIghrChoMII/AAAAAAAAC2E/ZskeHObGzH8/s640/fold0.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>The debut naughty word is slipcover.  Why am I anti-slipcover?  I have 1.5 kids and a dog.  I understand the practicality.  But the schlumpy dumpy look is more than I can stand.  Slipcovers look like granny panties for your furniture.  I don't care if they come from Pottery Barn or Room and Board, in my mind the saggy baggy look is never okay.

Naughty Word Monday: Slipcover

Today I am featuring the first in a new series of posts on my blog:  Naughty Word Mondays.  When visiting clients, they often use naughty wo...

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WTF Friday: Yield Not to Temptation

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SZfAhqE6eTE/UIgcSWXmqnI/AAAAAAAACz8/gkP1T6Z2CuE/s1600/24806093_095_b.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SZfAhqE6eTE/UIgcSWXmqnI/AAAAAAAACz8/gkP1T6Z2CuE/s400/24806093_095_b.jpeg" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ka897-C1pEE/UIgcTgXr_VI/AAAAAAAAC0E/usZHL1q5Cf0/s1600/24806093_095_m.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ka897-C1pEE/UIgcTgXr_VI/AAAAAAAAC0E/usZHL1q5Cf0/s400/24806093_095_m.jpeg" width="266" /></a></div>I am always tempted by shag rugs.  They look so plush, so comfy, so cozy.  They are so inviting--some even stylish.  But one time I yielded to the temptation and have always regretted it.  Shag rugs shed like a pet, attract dust and dirt like a magnet, and are a nightmare to vacuum.  The moral:  No matter how low the price goes on Anthropologie's Visual Inspiration Rug ($999, was $1999), don't buy it.  You'll rue the day--trust me...

WTF Friday: Yield Not to Temptation

I am always tempted by shag rugs.  They look so plush, so comfy, so cozy.  They are so inviting--some even stylish.  But one time I yielded ...

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Thirsty Thursday

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XOJhz727L6c/UIgbDxOewBI/AAAAAAAACzs/XiF0qAbJmSs/s1600/lib1558734084.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XOJhz727L6c/UIgbDxOewBI/AAAAAAAACzs/XiF0qAbJmSs/s400/lib1558734084.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tSo3twD0dhQ/UIgbEYxTUfI/AAAAAAAACz0/C61UKkP9_pM/s1600/lib15587451ad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tSo3twD0dhQ/UIgbEYxTUfI/AAAAAAAACz0/C61UKkP9_pM/s400/lib15587451ad.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Although, I design in styles ranging from traditional to minimal to transitional, the style that is always closest to my heart is retro.  50s and 60s design is the dream style for mi casa.  Another dream?  To finally be able to drink after so many months of baby making.  Perhaps that's why I was drawn to Fishs Eddy Retro Bar Recipe glasses ($3, were $6).  Who's thirsty!?!?

Thirsty Thursday

Although, I design in styles ranging from traditional to minimal to transitional, the style that is always closest to my heart is retro.  50...

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Oh, Mama!

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6lYpO3GG1EU/UIgaIQ5aMrI/AAAAAAAACzc/N_r_OgdZJJQ/s1600/img4o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6lYpO3GG1EU/UIgaIQ5aMrI/AAAAAAAACzc/N_r_OgdZJJQ/s400/img4o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OWtxC3GQlPs/UIgaKXIlAcI/AAAAAAAACzk/qU0Q1oJrO8Q/s1600/img94o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OWtxC3GQlPs/UIgaKXIlAcI/AAAAAAAACzk/qU0Q1oJrO8Q/s640/img94o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Mama is SO busy these final days before maternity leave.  I have many clients, some loose ends, and a lot to do before I start my nesting Nov. 1.  Is that any excuse for my lack of blogging?  Sure is!  I'm trying not to feel too bad about my delinquency.  What better way to make amends than by blogging?  Here goes...<br /><br />West Elm's Source Bench ($299, was $499) wouldn't fit in many of the NYC apartments I design.  It's much too big and too uncomfortable to be appropriate seating for a small space.  Therefore, rejoice those of you in large homes.  Rejoice and purchase this pretty piece of large room jewelry!<br /><br /><br />

Oh, Mama!

Mama is SO busy these final days before maternity leave.  I have many clients, some loose ends, and a lot to do before I start my nesting No...

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WTF Friday: Tsk, Tsk

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JeaJ0P2x-Yg/UHzYWOPS6GI/AAAAAAAACyk/n4O7sl-wY4w/s1600/BZR-05604_1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JeaJ0P2x-Yg/UHzYWOPS6GI/AAAAAAAACyk/n4O7sl-wY4w/s400/BZR-05604_1.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>A tisket, a tasket, I'd never buy this basket.  It's too small to put anything in and too beige to make any sort of statement.  This doesn't qualify as an accessory.  Instead, Serena and Lily's Manzini Woven Vase is what I call a dust collector and a pricey one at that ($19, was $30).

WTF Friday: Tsk, Tsk

A tisket, a tasket, I'd never buy this basket.  It's too small to put anything in and too beige to make any sort of statement.  This...

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Lovely Lotus

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YKEVtj2Kvb0/UHzXVyZyBQI/AAAAAAAACyc/r4ZHzvkTAyo/s1600/zm_sp12_dl_13300315-a_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YKEVtj2Kvb0/UHzXVyZyBQI/AAAAAAAACyc/r4ZHzvkTAyo/s400/zm_sp12_dl_13300315-a_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>I am a sucker for a pillow with texture, and all my clients know I love color.  So when texture and color come together, you know I am going to pay attention.  And, when they also happen to be on sale, I am going to feature them on my blog.  Case in point:  VivaTerra's Lotus Hooked Pillows ($44, was $89).

Lovely Lotus

I am a sucker for a pillow with texture, and all my clients know I love color.  So when texture and color come together, you know I am going...

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Bye, Bye, Plain Panes!

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jBPqM9D9-9c/UHzTSpxiVJI/AAAAAAAACxo/H3uJhqp6NlE/s1600/T_WithZoom.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jBPqM9D9-9c/UHzTSpxiVJI/AAAAAAAACxo/H3uJhqp6NlE/s320/T_WithZoom.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>Leaning mirrors are everywhere, and they all tend to look alike:  chunky frame around a plain pane.  So, when I came across Ballard Designs' Cheshire Leaner Mirror, I was surprised to see a new style.  I was also surprised by its affordable sale price of $229 (was $399).

Bye, Bye, Plain Panes!

Leaning mirrors are everywhere, and they all tend to look alike:  chunky frame around a plain pane.  So, when I came across Ballard Designs...

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