Excuse My Mommy Moment

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://picasion.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="make gif"><img alt="make gif" border="0" height="266" src="http://i.picasion.com/pic38/4519bfa84810a3da238d83e30ce4d201.gif" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Okay, I'm breaking out the proud mommy on this one. I was reading <i><a href="http://shuttersisters.com/">Shutter Sisters</a></i> and found a site called <i><a href="http://Picasion.com./">Picasion.com.</a></i> Its a super simple way of making GIF's from your photos, which is something I've wanted to do; but have been too lazy to learn. Now, I don't have to learn! Hooray!!</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I took this series of photos, quite some time ago but thought they would be great as a GIF. I realize that here in America its the middle of winter and I'm posting photos of Liam running through a sprinkler. Hey, maybe it will make you "think" warm.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div>

Excuse My Mommy Moment

Okay, I'm breaking out the proud mommy on this one. I was reading Shutter Sisters and found a site called Picasion.com. Its a super si...

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A Few Words Of Thanks.

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SlYSzIfPdoI/AAAAAAAAFPo/RExSbrCSZDE/s1600/St.+cecelia2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SlYSzIfPdoI/AAAAAAAAFPo/RExSbrCSZDE/s640/St.+cecelia2.jpg" width="524" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://carolinaeclectic.blogspot.com/2009/07/quick-stop-for-inspiration.html"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Saint Cecilia Hotel (Photo by Carolina)</span></i></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I had to sneak in another post to say thanks. First, I wanted to point out my beautiful new banner. I'm so excited about it!! A couple of months ago, I took down my old banner; because it didn't suite me anymore. Finally, I found something that represents me now. I want to thank one of my dearest friends, Sara Reeves of <i><a href="http://www.facebook.com/#%21/pages/Pumpernickel-Ink/183569084999010">Pumpernickel Ink</a></i> for her great work. How she managed to make sense of my ramblings, I'll never know!</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Second, a quick thanks to <a href="http://furnish.co.uk/"><i>Furnish.co.uk</i></a> for including me on their <a href="http://furnish.co.uk/features/319-our-weekly-roundup-of-interiors-blogs"><i>favorite blog round-up</i></a> . I still feel surprised and excited when I'm included in these lists with blogs that are so fabulous!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div></div>

A Few Words Of Thanks.

Saint Cecilia Hotel (Photo by Carolina) I had to sneak in another post to say thanks. First, I wanted to point out my beautiful new banner. ...

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Shopping Off The Beaten Path

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvZuZ44O7I/AAAAAAAAGFA/lwcGtMBNxAk/s1600/Picture+12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvZuZ44O7I/AAAAAAAAGFA/lwcGtMBNxAk/s1600/Picture+12.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Hello everyone! I'm so excited to share the goodies I found this past weekend. As I mentioned yesterday, I spent a weekend in Dallas, wandering and finding new and interesting things. Perhaps my favorite find was the shops of the lower Greenville area, along Henderson ave. They are a funky mix of vintage furniture and decorative accessories sourced from independent designers. They are so fresh! In fact, most of these shops have been in business less than two years.    </span><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> </i>Our first stop was<i> </i><a href="http://sputnikmodern.1stdibs.com/store/furniture_search.php?FRID=lGqaZZdjkZmc"><i>Sputnik Modern</i></a>. Although, not a large shop; its packed with very cool and original mid-century furnishings. Ahh, heaven for a vintage lover like me:) I think I loved most, the collection of leather chairs. Beautiful!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvZ1RVfVFI/AAAAAAAAGFE/JUYzyAQQIfA/s1600/Picture+14.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvZ1RVfVFI/AAAAAAAAGFE/JUYzyAQQIfA/s1600/Picture+14.png" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvZo87ZWeI/AAAAAAAAGE8/9DxeZobJmGs/s1600/Picture+15.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvZo87ZWeI/AAAAAAAAGE8/9DxeZobJmGs/s1600/Picture+15.png" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvZ5wSYhpI/AAAAAAAAGFI/F00MM5Wcloo/s1600/Picture+13.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvZ5wSYhpI/AAAAAAAAGFI/F00MM5Wcloo/s1600/Picture+13.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">I wish I could move in here. I'm sure they wouldn't mind, right?</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvaA37ehOI/AAAAAAAAGFM/JKbtTpM-r8k/s1600/Picture+10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvaA37ehOI/AAAAAAAAGFM/JKbtTpM-r8k/s1600/Picture+10.png" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvaFKPTbaI/AAAAAAAAGFQ/Li9pv105Ewk/s1600/Picture+11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvaFKPTbaI/AAAAAAAAGFQ/Li9pv105Ewk/s1600/Picture+11.png" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvapJ7QXBI/AAAAAAAAGFo/y1azrk6DgUA/s1600/Picture+22.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvapJ7QXBI/AAAAAAAAGFo/y1azrk6DgUA/s1600/Picture+22.png" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvavD515kI/AAAAAAAAGFs/O_1QndvFv2w/s1600/Picture+24.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvavD515kI/AAAAAAAAGFs/O_1QndvFv2w/s1600/Picture+24.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> If, Sputnik does not have enough mod furniture for you; go across the street to their second shop called <a href="http://www.1stdibs.com/furniture_search.php?FRID=ZGrGZ5lrlpmY"><i>Form</i></a>. Also, both of these stores can be found on <a href="http://www.1stdibs.com/"><i>1st Dibs.</i></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvaLEHTo-I/AAAAAAAAGFU/p2v_lsyx-Jw/s1600/Picture+18.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvaLEHTo-I/AAAAAAAAGFU/p2v_lsyx-Jw/s1600/Picture+18.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Next, we stopped at a very unique jewelry boutique called; <a href="http://www.shoptheshining.com/index.html"><i>The Shining.  </i></a>All the intriguing pieces sold here are designed by independent jewelry designers. If you gotta have jewelry like no one else, this is your place. I would have liked to have taken everything there home with me. </span><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvaQn8Vd9I/AAAAAAAAGFY/-6PA1uRgw-E/s1600/Picture+19.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvaQn8Vd9I/AAAAAAAAGFY/-6PA1uRgw-E/s1600/Picture+19.png" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvaWDd98dI/AAAAAAAAGFc/cdQ75kPGzbk/s1600/Picture+21.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvaWDd98dI/AAAAAAAAGFc/cdQ75kPGzbk/s1600/Picture+21.png" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvabERhDUI/AAAAAAAAGFg/2EDVR3N6o64/s1600/Picture+20.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvabERhDUI/AAAAAAAAGFg/2EDVR3N6o64/s1600/Picture+20.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">The showroom is very minimal and mostly white, but very welcoming.  Everything in it has such a beautiful texture. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvajgnpioI/AAAAAAAAGFk/Y_3M6ADjuLE/s1600/Picture+23.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvajgnpioI/AAAAAAAAGFk/Y_3M6ADjuLE/s1600/Picture+23.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">I'm crazy about these rings! Check out The Shining's <a href="http://shoptheshining.blogspot.com/"><i>blog</i></a>, too</span><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQva064Vi4I/AAAAAAAAGFw/PzhKktrViiU/s1600/Picture+17.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQva064Vi4I/AAAAAAAAGFw/PzhKktrViiU/s1600/Picture+17.png" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Finally, we stopped at <a href="http://www.weare1976.com/"><i>We Are 1976. </i></a></span><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">This is such a fun store! Its like taking everything that's great about <i><a href="http://www.etsy.com/">Etsy</a></i> and placing it in your favorite corner store. Again, the pieces here are made by smaller independent designers from around the world. There's more cool things in this place than I have time to describe. </span><i><br /></i></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQva_ZY3sjI/AAAAAAAAGF0/7cGyVhi9tL4/s1600/Picture+9.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQva_ZY3sjI/AAAAAAAAGF0/7cGyVhi9tL4/s1600/Picture+9.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvbJvbCMbI/AAAAAAAAGF8/ZLS2jGj5mP8/s1600/Picture+16.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvbJvbCMbI/AAAAAAAAGF8/ZLS2jGj5mP8/s1600/Picture+16.png" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvbElh-QTI/AAAAAAAAGF4/fNr_F-sMyHs/s1600/Picture+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TQvbElh-QTI/AAAAAAAAGF4/fNr_F-sMyHs/s1600/Picture+5.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you are out "last minute" Christmas shopping, this is a great place to find unique gifts at great prices. P.S. be sure and stop at <a href="http://www.thepearlcup.com/"><i>The Pearl Cup Espresso bar </i></a>for a very delicious cup of coffee. Trust me, you won't regret it</span>.</div>

Shopping Off The Beaten Path

Hello everyone! I'm so excited to share the goodies I found this past weekend. As I mentioned yesterday, I spent a weekend in Dallas, wa...

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The Curious Vignette

<div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TH_frUsA1pI/AAAAAAAAF40/Lybqv40A2r0/s1600/Picture+29.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512370404305458834" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TH_frUsA1pI/AAAAAAAAF40/Lybqv40A2r0/s800/Picture+29.png" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 470px; height: 625px;" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/28662850@N04/3049419493/in/pool-1538417@N22"><span style="font-style: italic;">(Maxime Clair)</span></a></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;">I finally did something I've wanted to do for quite a while. I started <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/1538417@N22/pool/"><span style="font-style: italic;">my own Flickr group!</span></a> Its been on my mind for a long time, but I couldn't decide what the theme should be. Finally, this week it hit me, how about photos of unusual vignettes! As is often the case, I thought of this for myself first. I wanted a group for the many photos I take of "curious" moments. So I'm inviting all of you who like to preserve these types of configurations to check out my group and maybe join it!</span> <span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/1538417@N22/pool/"><span style="font-style: italic;">(Here)</span></a></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TH_fqfSCGyI/AAAAAAAAF4k/ZjEuy-1634M/s1600/Picture+32.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512370389969410850" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TH_fqfSCGyI/AAAAAAAAF4k/ZjEuy-1634M/s800/Picture+32.png" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 483px; height: 325px;" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/yataro1/4889405603/in/pool-1538417@N22"><span style="font-style: italic;">(Yataro1)</span></a></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TH_fpskuW7I/AAAAAAAAF4c/tDmPJOopzIA/s1600/Picture+33.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512370376357600178" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TH_fpskuW7I/AAAAAAAAF4c/tDmPJOopzIA/s800/Picture+33.png" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 440px; height: 641px;" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22429780@N02/2571325519/in/pool-1538417@N22/"><span style="font-style: italic;">(Carolina Eclectic)</span></a></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TH_fpMljt3I/AAAAAAAAF4U/9aeYLpSvX4k/s1600/Picture+34.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512370367771162482" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TH_fpMljt3I/AAAAAAAAF4U/9aeYLpSvX4k/s400/Picture+34.png" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 437px; height: 721px;" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kaylovesvintage/3230401819/in/pool-1538417@N22"><span style="font-style: italic;">(Kaylovesvintage)</span></a></span><br /></div>

The Curious Vignette

(Maxime Clair) I finally did something I've wanted to do for quite a while. I started my own Flickr group! Its been on my mind for a lo...

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I'm Making Big Changes!

<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TBuRedKbWGI/AAAAAAAAF1U/o_g0eJQC3l8/s1600/Dresser+closeb.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5484136923664177250" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TBuRedKbWGI/AAAAAAAAF1U/o_g0eJQC3l8/s800/Dresser+closeb.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 481px; height: 708px;" /></a><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TBuRestHbeI/AAAAAAAAF1c/xuEYhAz-QSA/s1600/Dresser2b.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5484136927836204514" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TBuRestHbeI/AAAAAAAAF1c/xuEYhAz-QSA/s800/Dresser2b.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 539px; height: 394px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">So we have finally made the decision to move<span>।</span> In fact, school districts have forced us into the decision, but I don't care because I've been ready for a change!! So, currently I am in the process of preparing the house to put on the market and to somehow de-personalize my very, VERY personal space. Wish me luck!</span></div></span><br /></div>

I'm Making Big Changes!

So we have finally made the decision to move । In fact, school districts have forced us into the decision, but I don't care because I...

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Moving Right Along

<div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/S6jd4-fwcSI/AAAAAAAAFyM/qkC0nYuYClk/s1600-h/Liam+and+the+Cadillac.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451851319850594594" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/S6jd4-fwcSI/AAAAAAAAFyM/qkC0nYuYClk/s800/Liam+and+the+Cadillac.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 659px; height: 443px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">This week marks Liam's 5th birthday! I'm having trouble adjusting to not having a "baby" around, anymore. He's growing and changing so much. Thanks to Grandma, he now has his own car to drive. Yikes! This things is so big, it needs its own garage. Thanks Mom, I think.<br />Speaking of growing up, at his birthday party I saw him holding hands with one of his little girl friends! Yes! For a second I thought I saw my life flashing in front of me...my baby!!!! Just last week he told me he was "in love" with a different little girl. Help me, Lord!</span><br /></div>

Moving Right Along

This week marks Liam's 5th birthday! I'm having trouble adjusting to not having a "baby" around, anymore. He's growing...

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Goodbye To Tired Holiday Decor!

<div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwGsw2GZx2I/AAAAAAAAFk0/SPK7dhUcO2Y/s1600/Picture+6.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404790982977374050" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwGsw2GZx2I/AAAAAAAAFk0/SPK7dhUcO2Y/s800/Picture+6.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 534px; height: 351px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">As the holidays approach I usually write about my dislike of boring decorating ideas. I never understand why so many of us can't let go of "Grandma's decorating" ideas when it comes to Christmas! As it turns out, the folks at <a href="http://www.foundforthehome.com/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Found</span></a> feel the same way and they (unlike me) decided to do something about it. Tuesday evening they are opening their doors and sharing lots of fresh and stylish decorating ideas.<br /></span></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwGsxY2ceMI/AAAAAAAAFk8/Au1ebbboc1g/s1600/Picture+7.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404790992305682626" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwGsxY2ceMI/AAAAAAAAFk8/Au1ebbboc1g/s800/Picture+7.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 465px; height: 690px;" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwGtXQGmgGI/AAAAAAAAFlU/bF3DiLzUYu0/s1600/Picture+11.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404791642792558690" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwGtXQGmgGI/AAAAAAAAFlU/bF3DiLzUYu0/s800/Picture+11.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 536px; height: 357px;" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwGtW72e4MI/AAAAAAAAFlM/C4bLOfN2dj0/s1600/Picture+9.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404791637356241090" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwGtW72e4MI/AAAAAAAAFlM/C4bLOfN2dj0/s800/Picture+9.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 530px; height: 348px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Great tip</span>: Use fresh greenery! It has a wonderful aroma and looks amazing in any home.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwGtX8LF5NI/AAAAAAAAFlc/eiWLa48FVSs/s1600/Picture+12.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404791654622553298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwGtX8LF5NI/AAAAAAAAFlc/eiWLa48FVSs/s800/Picture+12.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 449px; height: 664px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">When it comes down to it, what bothers me about most holiday decorating is its garishness. You know, most of us would never consider living with tacky, shiny objects on a regular basis; but we don't give it a second thought at Christmas time. Why?</span><span style="font-size:85%;"> Subtlety, can be so much more beautiful. Also, subtle doesn't have to mean boring. It can be very unique and charming.</span><br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwGswoWgbkI/AAAAAAAAFks/qUbqDWThm-4/s1600/Picture+5.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404790979286822466" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwGswoWgbkI/AAAAAAAAFks/qUbqDWThm-4/s800/Picture+5.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 546px; height: 362px;" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwGrx75ke1I/AAAAAAAAFkc/Et5LFpNVuxI/s1600/Picture+3.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404789902202403666" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwGrx75ke1I/AAAAAAAAFkc/Et5LFpNVuxI/s800/Picture+3.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 553px; height: 412px;" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwGtWIGOiRI/AAAAAAAAFlE/Y5w0X77pN10/s1600/Picture+8.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404791623463635218" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwGtWIGOiRI/AAAAAAAAFlE/Y5w0X77pN10/s800/Picture+8.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 560px; height: 373px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Don't you love this color!!</span><br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwGswLNO6YI/AAAAAAAAFkk/inNecoUGvwc/s1600/Picture+4.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404790971463297410" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwGswLNO6YI/AAAAAAAAFkk/inNecoUGvwc/s800/Picture+4.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 446px; height: 667px;" /><br /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwGrxV7XFlI/AAAAAAAAFkU/yAZ7c_b6BzY/s1600/Picture+2.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404789892009367122" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwGrxV7XFlI/AAAAAAAAFkU/yAZ7c_b6BzY/s800/Picture+2.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 551px; height: 409px;" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwGrwxGQgKI/AAAAAAAAFkM/1izgzQvt2G4/s1600/Picture+1.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404789882122961058" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwGrwxGQgKI/AAAAAAAAFkM/1izgzQvt2G4/s800/Picture+1.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 556px; height: 368px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Okay, I admit I can be a bit of a Scrooge. Fortunately, even <a href="http://www.foundforthehome.com/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Found's</span></a> lumps of coal come in a charming package. Ha, Ha!<br />Here's some more info. Maybe I'll see some of you there:)<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:16;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwG8jnx0_4I/AAAAAAAAFlk/hp1oP_W1GbE/s1600/found_holiday+EVITE_09_highres.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404808347980726146" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwG8jnx0_4I/AAAAAAAAFlk/hp1oP_W1GbE/s800/found_holiday+EVITE_09_highres.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 448px; height: 622px;" /></a></span></span></div>

Goodbye To Tired Holiday Decor!

As the holidays approach I usually write about my dislike of boring decorating ideas. I never understand why so many of us can't let go ...

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Finally Recovering From The Market!

<div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SvnGUbaZwmI/AAAAAAAAFic/Cutja1wYecA/s1600-h/Urban+market+11-09+-+25.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402567282265801314" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SvnGUbaZwmI/AAAAAAAAFic/Cutja1wYecA/s800/Urban+market+11-09+-+25.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 508px; height: 651px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Wow, I'm finally back! </span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">Its taken a few days to recover from the market. Not that I was exhausted so much, but getting my house back in order again! Yikes!!! Never mind the amount of things I put off last week that are now catching up to me this week. Thankfully, I can say that we still had a great time:)</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SvnGTCpidgI/AAAAAAAAFiE/zl9jt1pklBo/s1600-h/Urban+market+11-09+-+02.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402567258438530562" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SvnGTCpidgI/AAAAAAAAFiE/zl9jt1pklBo/s800/Urban+market+11-09+-+02.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 331px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">As usual, there was an array of amazing objects everywhere. When I arrived early Sunday morning, I made the decision to only allow myself to buy things after I had sold some of my own. Also, I couldn't spend <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">more</span> than I made. That would not have gone over well with Mark, trust me. </span><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SvnKDlwvK9I/AAAAAAAAFjc/hRapp_E6j-4/s1600-h/Picture+17.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402571391032568786" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SvnKDlwvK9I/AAAAAAAAFjc/hRapp_E6j-4/s800/Picture+17.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 645px; height: 327px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">The funny thing about the market is that now its a place to catch up w/ friends and acquaintances. I had a chance to run into fellow bloggers, favorite shop owners, and readers! It was great fun. Above, are photos of Cheryl Schulke's (<a href="http://stashstudios.typepad.com/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Stash Studios</span></a>) amazing handmade bags. They really more awesome than a photo can capture. As the bloggers who stopped by to show some love, I want to say thanks to the ladies of <a href="http://paloma81.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-style: italic;">La Dolce Vita</span></a>, <a href="http://whatwouldjaneaustendo.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-style: italic;">What Would Jane Austen Do</span>?</a>, and <a href="http://musingsofanightowl.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Under A Paper Moon</span></a>. I'm not forgetting anyone, am I? After a while, Sunday became a bit of a blur. Even my tireless 4 year old had to take an occasional break!</span><br /></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SvnHWzh0llI/AAAAAAAAFjU/oNdbHoYK0yQ/s1600-h/Urban+market+11-09+-+37.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402568422610736722" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SvnHWzh0llI/AAAAAAAAFjU/oNdbHoYK0yQ/s800/Urban+market+11-09+-+37.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 478px; height: 717px;" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SvnG3Sk0EdI/AAAAAAAAFjE/ykpXR661dXw/s1600-h/Urban+market+11-09+-+39.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402567881188970962" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SvnG3Sk0EdI/AAAAAAAAFjE/ykpXR661dXw/s800/Urban+market+11-09+-+39.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 647px; height: 536px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">I had the amazing pleasure of sharing my space with several wonderful (and much better prepared) ladies. (Except I don't know blond lady in the middle. Oh well, it was like a big ole' party) <a href="http://heightsantiques.com/index.php?&MMN_position=1:1"><span style="font-style: italic;">Maura</span></a> (on the right) thanks for all your help, and Mark said, "Thanks for the wine!" </span><br /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SvnG3FawGQI/AAAAAAAAFi8/FFYpAoUlyOk/s1600-h/Urban+market+11-09+-+33.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402567877657106690" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SvnG3FawGQI/AAAAAAAAFi8/FFYpAoUlyOk/s800/Urban+market+11-09+-+33.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 480px; height: 719px;" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SvnG29VM1eI/AAAAAAAAFi0/OyVQboSma9Q/s1600-h/Urban+market+11-09+-+30.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402567875486340578" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SvnG29VM1eI/AAAAAAAAFi0/OyVQboSma9Q/s800/Urban+market+11-09+-+30.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 481px; height: 720px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">I love the idea of an "Industrial Christmas!"</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SvnG2jApTjI/AAAAAAAAFis/DSzfgRJnC1g/s1600-h/Urban+market+11-09+-+29.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402567868420804146" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SvnG2jApTjI/AAAAAAAAFis/DSzfgRJnC1g/s800/Urban+market+11-09+-+29.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 664px; height: 443px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Don't ask me what these wire bowl type things are for, but I do love their shape.</span><br /></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SvnG2YmUKSI/AAAAAAAAFik/Gk267lrUBqY/s1600-h/Urban+market+11-09+-+26.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402567865626011938" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SvnG2YmUKSI/AAAAAAAAFik/Gk267lrUBqY/s800/Urban+market+11-09+-+26.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 668px; height: 457px;" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SvnGT5uWoYI/AAAAAAAAFiU/xSLVUlLO3no/s1600-h/Urban+market+11-09+-+12.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402567273222676866" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SvnGT5uWoYI/AAAAAAAAFiU/xSLVUlLO3no/s800/Urban+market+11-09+-+12.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 662px; height: 441px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Cool or creepy? Haven't quite decided yet.</span><br /></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SvnGTqZ5_QI/AAAAAAAAFiM/Hj_AgOFvG5E/s1600-h/Urban+market+11-09+-+10.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402567269110381826" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SvnGTqZ5_QI/AAAAAAAAFiM/Hj_AgOFvG5E/s800/Urban+market+11-09+-+10.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 483px; height: 723px;" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SvnGSyh0_HI/AAAAAAAAFh8/aZUshi0M3IM/s1600-h/um-fabflea.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402567254111222898" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SvnGSyh0_HI/AAAAAAAAFh8/aZUshi0M3IM/s800/um-fabflea.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 731px; height: 389px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">I even had a chance to hang out with Mary of <a href="http://carolinaeclectic.blogspot.com/2009/06/fabulous-flea-and-fabulous-sale.html"><span style="font-style: italic;">The Fabulous Flea</span></a>. Some of you may remember and article I wrote about her shop here. P.S. if you want to see more of her amazing finds, The Fab Flea will be open <a href="http://thefabflea.com/upcoming-shows.php"><span style="font-style: italic;">tomorrow</span></a>; (11/12) so check it out.<br />Finally, I want to thank all of you readers who stopped by and introduced yourselves. Its such a pleasure to meet you and I'm so grateful to know that you regularly take the time to read this blog:)</span><br /></div>

Finally Recovering From The Market!

Wow, I'm finally back! Its taken a few days to recover from the market. Not that I was exhausted so much, but getting my house back in o...

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