Happy Thanksgiving!

source unkown When I count my many blessings tomorrow, I will include all of you - I appreciate the time you take to come here and read my nonsense and seek my design advice.  This blog has given me so many opportunities to indulge in all my design dreams! YOU are helping to make that happen.  I am so  grateful for the support I find here and in blogland. I hope each...

Christmas Ideas 2013 - What momma wants........

1/2/3/4/5/6/7/8 I learned long ago that it's best if I give my family suggestions for what to give me for Christmas - makes life easier and happier!  This year, as in past years, I put together a collection of suggested gift items. Obviously, I like monogrammed and cozy/warm items. Oh, and I could use a new wallet. Have you seen the Kontex towels made in Japan? They had me at 'gingham'. And...

Do you have an Ellen connection? Can ya help get this family to Sochi?

Ok, some facts about yours truly: * I was born in Wisconsin * I am half Swedish, half Norwegian {with some other stuff thrown in for good measure} {and yes, I know that makes me more than 100% a person} * Curling is a legit sport among my 'people' * Some of my 'people' may even be Olympic curling athletes - true story. Actually, my cousin's sister-in-law has been a member of the USA...

Tomato Basil Soup.....

We are heading into the holiday season which means lots of rich foods and sweet treats.  And while I love to indulge as  much as the next person, I also like to weave in some  healthy, lighter dinners for my family during the season. This tomato-basil soup recipe is a favorite! I serve it with cheese toasts and a caesar salad. Tomato-Basil Soup {adapted from Portland's...

Around my home....the November version....{aka} the holiday 'before'!

Almost 2 years ago, I dropped my good 50mm camera lens and it broke.  I was so frustrated with myself, I put the lens in a drawer and tried to forget it.  However, the  photos of my home that I was taking and putting on the blog were harsh reminders of how much I missed that  sweet lens....the one lens that helped me take beautiful photos despite my lack of camera knowledge..... Last...

Holiday Cards......a giveaway from Minted!

It's that time of year to clean up the kids, dust off your husband, give the dog a bath etc....... and take the perfect family photo for your holiday card! If all of the above leaves you - not so 'merry' and 'bright'   Minted makes the rest EASY-PEASY! Minted has the cutest, most beautiful Christmas,  holiday, Hanukkah and even New Years cards  and greetings!  Minted...

Making a grand entrance....

My clients, a young family that just moved into a large house with a large entry way,  have asked my help with filling it in a way that is functional and balanced while embracing the casually elegant style they want for their home.  I created the design board above for them as a start.  The room {it's large enough to be considered a room} is a tad asymmetrical so the...

Life, in photos.....

* Beautiful fall drives *my freshman girl went to her  first Homecoming dance {with a BOY!} * A friend is building a gorgeous home  that I can't wait to show you *Above mentioned freshman girl got asked to play with the  varsity soccer team for the state championship playoffs! * I ate WAY too much candy last week *and just maybe had a few too many empty wine...