Saturday, August 31, 2013

9-5 Work Day

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Metallic


      I know the use of metallics in decor or fashion is nothing new and certainly not a stop the presses moment, but for me it has become a small obsession. When I find something that I love I tend to see it everywhere I look and I feel like it jumps out at me when I am shopping. This has been my experience lately with anything metallic and shinny. I know sometimes you can get in a color rut when decorating and before you know it you have blocked yourself into a very strict pallet. Metallics can be your escape hatch they bring a neutral element that will not disrupt your decor and in fact will bring class, and diversity to your home. Feel free to use these shinny elements in side tables, lamps, frames, and just about anything that strikes your fancy.
      Decorating with metallics does not necessarily mean you must go out and purchase new items for your home.  You can easily up-cycle a piece by spray painting with metallic paints, or finding a wonderful piece at an estate sale or goodwill that could use some extra love.



West Elm stool




   Don't feel timid about mixing metals either, you might find a gold side table and some antiqued silver lamps you absolutely love do not stress about choosing one over the other. Another benefit of using metallics in your home is that they are reflective and provide very much the same benefit as mirrors do in opening up a room and providing a light and airy element that might be just what your home needs. Just remember like with every good thing make sure it is in moderation and does not throw off the balance of your home.



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Friday, August 30, 2013

The Emerald City


  
    While moving from over seas to the states is a daunting task it does come with its perks as well. Flying back from Japan my husband and I took a four day vacation in Seattle. We have flown through it many times, and are quite familiar with the airport, but were itching to get out and explore the city. I have long had a desire to go to Seattle and be surrounded by so much lush greenery, the shops, the food, and lets not kid ourselves the coffee. I must say I was not in the least bit disappointed by our time there and would go back in a heart beat. Surprisingly enough it did not rain once while we were there, and the weather was cool and sunny. 


Our first morning there we got up really early, could be due to the jet lag, and went down to Pikes Market. On the way we came across this wonderful cafe The Crumpet Shop
They offered organic options for both food and drinks, they had vegetarian selection, sweet items, and plenty of protein options. My husband and I both found something to our taste in the same place which does not always happen. It has a very casual vibe, and a place where you saw several locals hanging around.
We stayed in the lovely Hotel Monaco it was central to the downtown area and only a few blocks from Pikes Market.  


could of spend the whole day at the market just people watching






   I can't finish a travel post without mentioning a shop that I absolutely fell in love with. Watson Kennedy Shop is full of home decor inspiration it ha something for everyone. The London times said "His passion for the art of display makes this Seattle original a browser's heaven."  
It is a must see and I know for me if I ever get the change to go back to Seattle I will undoubtedly make a return visit to this shop. 





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Thursday, August 29, 2013

Grey & White

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    I am kind of a fanatic when it comes to the color grey.  It can be used as a neutral foundation to build off of with vibrant colors or the dramatic focal point of your home decor. Regardless of the tone you are looking for warm or cool there is a grey that can satisfy an array of decorating needs. Personally I find the combination of grey and white to be classic, clean and appropriate for almost any space you are wanting to breath new life into.



 
        




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Wednesday, August 28, 2013

Sweet Savannah


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    Savannah is a lively city that has done a remarkable job at marrying old world charm with modern shops and bars. The downtown historical district hosts 21 small park areas that are surrounded by stunning refurbished historical homes, and in some cases overseen by towering church steeples.

love a red door


courthouse in downtown Savannah

     Those that know me will concede that I can not be in a vibrant city like Savannah and pass up shopping. My husband has time and time again graciously indulged this hobby of mine. As we were walking down West Broughton Street we stumbled upon The Paris Market.  This gem is a must see if you happen to find yourself in Savannah. It has a uniquely Parisian vibe, but the flow and design of the shop is unpretentious and welcoming. It is a place that you could loose yourself in for hours.







   Another shop that caught our interest was Alex Raskin Antiques. I can honestly say I have never been to a place like this in my life. It is an endless four story collection of antiques from all different time periods. The culmination of history housed in this one place can be overwhelming, but it can also be incredibly inspiring. Even if you are not in the market for antiques it is so worth a walk through the home itself is a slice of history.





I wonder what their story is



         We thoroughly enjoyed our time in Savannah and look forward to many more trips there. If anyone has a suggestion on where to go places to eat I would love to hear about them.


     












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Hunting Island

 

           My parents were able to come for a visit last week and we decided to explore Hunting Island State Park which is about 30min east from Beaufort. It is a very extensive park with camping, hiking, beach access, and picnic areas. There is a very impressive light house with historic grounds that surround it, and tell the history of the light house's beginnings.






       The time with my parents was wonderful and we got to share some sweet moments with them and show them around the surrounding Beaufort area.


We went to old town Bluffton and found a cute shop called gigi's, also what the grad kids call my mom. The shop had some great fun jewelry, and accessories.


   Can't wait for them to come again!





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Tuesday, August 27, 2013

Falling for Fall

     
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     I love fall fashion the boots, scarves, blazers, and crisp air. I can't wait for those wonderful cool mornings where the air takes your breath away and the sun is shining clear and bright. I feel like I need to be carrying a stack of books and a pumpkin latte on principle. Here are some looks that get me into a fall state of mind I hope they inspire you as well.

J.crew










         And while you are at it go get a pumpkin spice latte on me!





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Farmers Market

     I simply adore a good farmers market there is such a feeling of life, possibilities, and warm people who are passionate about what they do. One of the first things I did when moving to Beaufort, Sc was search out the nearest market.
     I found a gem at the Port Royal Farmers Market located across from the Naval Hospital at Heritage Park.












         This market is open from 8:30-12 on Sat. there are several others in the Beaufort area as well. 

Port Royal Farmers Market - 8:30-12 Sat 
Downtown Beaufort Farmers Market - 2-6 Wed
 Bluffton Farmers Market - 2-7pm Thurs
Habersham Farmers Market - 4-7 Friday

      I purchased a lovely basal plant from one of the vendors at the farmers market and she had a yummy sun dried tomato pesto recipe. This would be great for an appetizer, holiday hostess gift, or to enjoy for yourself. 

Ingredients:
1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes (minus the oil)
2 tablespoons of fresh basil 
1 clove of garlic
2 tablespoons of pine nuts (toasted)
2 tablespoons of parmigiano reggiano (grated)
3 tablespoons of olive oil (or the leftover oil from the tomatoes)
Salt & Pepper to taste

* Pulse in a food processor till it reached the desired consistency



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