GAME MANIA

I love photography! In fact it's on my bucket list to someday take a class and learn more about this art form. I'm very much looking forward to the Mario Testino exhibit at the MFA in Boston this Fall. He's such a creative and influential force. (read more below) It opens on 10.21. I always feel a bit anxious this time of year. The past two Fall seasons have been ones of drastic change and heartbreak for me. I'm focusing on the positive and hoping this Fall will be quite the opposite and turn out amazing. I'm moving from my home, so on that front a big change is in store. This exhibit will definitely be a positive to look forward to. In fact I think I may use some of his work as a starting point and design concept for my new place. (which I need to find, something else causing me a bit of trepidation) And to all of you who got your kiddies off to school for their first day today, hope it went well!!! I'm looking forward and remembering: "let your faith b...

As most of my readers know I've had a whirlwind of a couple of years..a cheating spouse, two kids under the age of four, a lengthy divorce, and many many crazy changes but I have to say as long as you and your family are healthy and you're not going to be forced out onto the streets, everything works out!! And mark my words, it's usually for the better!  I'm in a really good place right now on so many levels. (I've been to the beach more this summer then I've have in years - my personal escape). I have a stressful couple of months ahead of me (so bear with me on the blog posts) but I'm staying positive that the direction I am heading is the right one for me and my children! I went house hunting on Friday. eeek. I really hope I can find something soon! I'm moving either way by mid-October so stayed tuned for the juicy and not so juicy details! (I came across this top image via Luella and June - it made my morning) So If you are in a bad place or feeling...

WOW, it's amazing what you can get accomplished at midnight. I've been so busy lately that I decided to work through a good part of the wee hours of the morning and was then up at 5:15! It's actually amazing what you can accomplish without any mid-day interruptions! From the looks of my blog posts lately you can see where the non-work related half of my brain is! I just LOVE the summer and all it's wonderfulness. When I find my cottage (hopefully getting close) I WILL absolutely restart the family tradition of a yearly Clambake! It doesn't get much better then fresh seafood, cold beer and great laughs with friends and family! That's what down time should be all about! Happy Summertime!

Whoo hoo, we're finally kicking off the summer!! It's my favorite time of year and just perfect for bright, fun, saturated colors! I think I'll be whipping up this tasty concoction over the weekend, it's called the sunshine dazzler. How great is that? Sunshine Dazzler 1 part vodka 1 part fresh OJ 1 part fresh mango juice 2 parts dry champagne lots of ice orange slices Mix ingredients in a pitcher adding champagne last & give a quick stir. Immediately serve over ice. We think this one is straw worthy.

I'm always inspired by the world around me. I'd have to say most of my inspiration lately is right at my finger tips. With the advent of Pinterest, numerous search engines and a zillion design blogs, I don't have to look far for inspiration. Of course getting in touch with nature and exploring + traveling are always a must too. I need to step out of my design world and away from the computer to recharge sometimes! This week I'm inspired by everything 60's and 70's glam . I'm loving the work of Italian socialite and artist, designer and business woman Gabriella Crespi lately. Her sculptural, designs are a marvel and are crafted out an array of materials such as metal, shells, wood, and bamboo. She drew inspiration from "the universe". Crespi is a very spiritual woman and was born in 1922. Aerin Lauder's "z" desk is a Crespi design Design by Jeffery Bilhuber, stools by Gabriella Crespi Coffee table design by Gabriella Crespi read more ...

I draw inspiration everywhere, today it's from all things California Cool . image of children on porch: Melanie Acevado

mixing it up this Fall? {i know i will} Fabulous design is all about opposites right? at least it is for me {and countless others} I love to mix high + low, edgy + classic....etc,.etc..! Tips on the mix: Mix in a graphic {stripes, chevron, check etc..} something shiny + something old something pricey + an inexpensive trend edgy + classic {I think you get the picture} The shots above are so RIGHT on! Left images: Aerin Lauder's home in House and Garden via Habitually Chic , Right: Alexa Chung {the English model, fashionista , + show host}

Details... {random bits} {penny tiles make this tiny kitchen sparkle} {a weekend sentiment} images: my life my loves , Canadian House and Home {I can't remember where I found this?}, Lonny , Vintage and Chic , Mary Ruffle , Poppy and Leo

{images: Hampton Showhouse} I often don't have the time to slow down..I'm usually running from one place to the next..busy, busy, busy with my babe's, my business, my blog..you name it..but now and again I try to take the time to absorb information, new ideas, architecture, nature, fashion, art etc..for inspiration. Today I'm sharing the work of New York based designer Brad Ford . His designs are classic but modern, they possess a sculputural quality without being too precious..his mix of texture, use of light and color and array of "found objects" with a hint of masuclinity are both engaging and unpredicatable..in my book, he has mastered the art of "good design"! okay, I'm off and running {again} to a contractor meeting....have a good day!