First day of the new year

Now that the New Year is here, we’re counting down the days now until we can put our toes in the sand as we make our way back to LA. This month is full of transitions we’ve been so anxiously awaiting and preparing for. My ideal new years day…a long walk on the beach as we count our blessings and discuss our goals and dreams we want to realize in 2012. Nothing represents endless possibilities like the never ending ocean horizon. Then burgers and champagne for lunch. (Healthier eating resolution starts tomorrow) What’s your ideal day?

images via pinterest

Happy New Year

Ringing in a New Year brings excitement and hope. A clean slate and opportunity for new beginnings. While these past few years may have been a challenge for many, I can’t help but feel this is the year we turn it around. Every day we have a choice to stay stuck or re-chart our course in life. It may not be easy, it may mean making difficult decisions but real change comes from having a clear goal and taking daily action to achieve that goal. I hope 2012 brings you health, happiness and a desire to live your life to its fullest potential. Here’s to a Happy New Year and Happy New You in 2012. Cheers!

images here & here

The New Restoration Hardware

This past year Restoration Hardware had a major store and image make over. They now present their home furnishings in a gallery setting with towering ceilings and taupe painted walls as the backdrop for their grand scale furniture, lighting and artwork. Restoration Hardware furniture and decor feels more European in style and a dash of old Hollywood. They have teamed up with artisans and craftsman to create these timeless treasures and reproductions. RH as always be my go to for drapery. Panels come in 84” – 120” in length and either 50” or 100” inches in width which is difficult to find premade. Beyond that you’re going custom made. Every holiday season they come out with fantastic gifts and stocking stuffers, most of which you can find online. Happy shopping!

A Collage of Colorful Ornaments

This weekend was cold and grey but these glittering ornaments in all their glory warmed me right up. Worthy of any coveted Christmas tree collection. Have fun decorating your tree.

The Christmas Spirit

As Christmas draws near, we’re busy decking the Halls, partaking in holiday cheer and shopping for loved ones far or near, naughty or nice. But let us not lose sight of the real meaning of Christmas. Let’s be extra kind to those around, even as our holiday patience grows thin. As our actions speak louder than words.

images from here

A Christmas Cottage

When I first saw the exterior photo of Jill Sharp Brinson’s 1930s cottage I said to myself “Yes please!” but the love didn’t stop there. The interior is fresh but maintains its cottage charm with an architectural mix of salvaged woods and steel. In the December issue of Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, Ballard Designs’ creative director Jill Sharp Brinson puts her spin on Christmas in her Peachtree Heights cottage with Suzanne Kasler’s latest holiday collection for Ballard Design. Jill shares this darling abode with her photographer husband, Rob, along with their three dogs. I love the modern touch of the chevron tablecloth and just look at that kitchen!

 

All images from Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles
Photography by Rob Brinson

Gifts for the Gardener

Recently, I discovered a new favorite place to visit…terrain, I just wish they were in my neck of the woods! This fabulous chic yet rustic home and garden store is located in Glen Mills, PA. Lucky for us they have a beautiful website and is visually appealing to peruse. If your list includes gardeners then no need to look any further. Plus, the fine folks at terrain are offering complimentary shipping on all orders over $150 thru January 1st. Shopping just got easier, wouldn’t you say?

(1) Finally, a thermometer that marries function with style. It’s easy to read and weather resistant. When exposed to the elements, the zinc weathers to a beautiful patina. (2) A terrain web exclusive, this landmark book from one of Australia's best-loved cooks is an essential resource for anyone with an appreciation for sourcing fresh produce, sharing memorable meals, and cooking from the heart. With its beautiful hand-embroidered cover, Maggie's Harvest highlights 350 of Maggie Beer's signature recipes.

(3) Illustrated by Rifle Paper Co., this set of homegrown cards features backyard produce, garden wellies, tools, and fresh herbs, found only at terrain for a limited time. $20 (4) Made with fine English lavender from the Bonny Doon farm, the Gardener's Lavender Salve is an effective healing agent for dry elbows, knees, hands, heels and cuticles. $12

(5) Let this clever notepad help you plan your garden. LOVE! In a format that allows you to sketch your mini-plan and annotate the execution specifics, plants, tasks, and items to purchase. Perfect for the novice and advanced horticulturalist alike. $28 (6) This set of ten eco-friendly labels are the perfect gardening companion. Made from sustainably harvested birch wood, these blackboard labels help you easily keep track of the plants in your garden. The white chinagraph pencil is perfect for the blackboard as it won’t wash off in the rain-but can be reused to last you many seasons in the garden. $14

All images from terrain