food tents with Microsoft

 

drink up

an apple a day

fab finish

The Martha Stewart Living paint finish tool kit contains eight tools for creating twelve decorative paint effects.  It also includes a full color technique brochure and how-to guide.  A fresh coat of paint does wonders to a room, but to really breathe new life into plain walls and tired furniture, try giving that fresh coat a little something extra.  Eye-catching patterns and surface textures are surprisingly easy to create yourself, and you can see the beautiful results of your project in a single weekend.  This booklet gives you step-by-step instructions for producing a dozen professional-looking effects, including graphic stripes, rich textured linen, and my favorite, “faux bois” wood grain.

put a cork in it

 

When we first moved into our loft apartment, one thing I focused my attention on was the proper drawer liner for the kitchen.  With a cork self-adhesive drawer and shelf liner, you can gently cushion and protect fine glassware and dinnerware.  The roll of soft, pliable natural cork features a peel-off backing to adhere to a drawer or shelf.  The cork naturally resists mold and mildew and easily cut with scissors.  You can find this at Target, and other stores.

prized pottery

Since 1971, Guy Wolff has been spinning some of the most exquisite clay creations around.  Located in Washington, Connecticut, Guy Wolff makes his gorgeous pots at his studio.  I love his work, and I hope to collect many of his pieces.  The clean lines and timeless designs make for ideal choices for indoor and outdoor plant vessels.  I love his white pots--they have a green patina that makes them look mossy and aged.

Please explore his website, and keep him in mind this Holiday season.  Anyone could appreciate a well made work of art like this, that functions as beautifully as it looks.

fashion friday: Hermes

                                                     

With that classic orange "H", the absolutely amazing quality of leather goods, and impeccable style, Hermes has been consistent for decades.  I am an Hermes fan all the way! Each and every piece that comes bearing the Hermes name is 100% handmade.  These are classic pieces that will last more then a lifetime.  One of the most iconic pieces is the famous Birkin (shown here), so coveted that most Hermes stores have a waiting list to get one.  They range in price from $5,000-$25,000. Hermes is famous for their clever use of exotic skins, such as lizard and alligator.  If you ever have the chance to browse through an Hermes boutique, I highly recommend doing so; it is a heavenly experience.

oh martha

Everyday Foods, Martha Stewart's latest publication, is a digest-sized meal planner for every day of the week, all year long.  Often categorized and featured with seasonal fresh ingredients, this is a great way to come up with a real good meal.  There is also an app available for iPhone/iPod touch that is my favorite!  I have used it at the market as my shopping list--perfect!

succulents

Succulents are plants that store water in their leaves, stems, and roots.  This gives succulents a more swollen or fleshy appearance than other plants (this is called succulence). 

Succulent plants have become my absolute favorite plant to have around the house.  They are very low-maintenance and require little watering.  Although they thrive in warm and sunny climates, setting them in a window or under a growing light for up to seven hours a day will allow them to flourish.  Their unique architecture and odd appearance add so much character and life to your home.  I have several succulent and cactus plants throughout my home, and they have become such a passion for me.

Succulents don't always have to be potted plants.  They are also great to use in arrangements, like this one above.

texture

Texture is one of the most important design elements.  Adding texture adds interest and character to any space.  A furry sheepskin throw, like the one shown above, lightly thrown over a chair adds warmth and variety to a basic room.

Even adding a carpet with a print, like this faux bois by Martha Stewart, still adds the element of texture.  This also allows a break in the color palette and creates dimension.

Tired of your plain couch?  Add ruffled pillows, and you can basically reinvent your existing sitting space.