Sail Away

all images obtained via pinterest.com

Amber Interiors

This LA based designer makes rooms that palpably scream summer . Her spaces are white, bright, filled with pattern and texture, but still simple and modern. They make you want to open all the doors and windows to enjoy the glorious sunny weather! I love her bright and happy color, she is the one designer that uses hot pink on a regular basis, and I actually like it!

All images obtained via pinterest.com

Ina

This former White House nuclear analyst turned lifestyle goddess holds the key to some of my favorite recipes and interiors. Her houses in the Hamptons and her apartment in New York are among my favorites. I admire someone who is talented on many planes; like Martha Stewart without all of the BS, and more of the class...

Her "barn" or "carraige house" in the Hamptons where she shoots her cooking show

The outside

Beautiful entryway

Bath anyone?

Love the open cupboard doors and the rug

Perfect writing desk in the Hamptons

Love this neutral living room

New York Living Room, how delicious are those orange velvet curtains?

One of her lovely table-scapes

A guest bedroom in the Hamptons

The amazing lady herself

All images obtained via pinterest.com

Picture Update

Zach and I completed our first 5k trail run this weekend. I never thought training to run 3 miles would be so difficult, but it was a good wake-up call for me that I really needed to get back in shape.  As a fun bonus, we were able to run with our boys in the "Furry Division" (I kid you not). It was great to see people out with their dogs, enjoying the day together. I ran with Newton and Zach ran with Nox, hence we paired to two fastest and the two slowest together and it worked out pefectly. Zach and Nox placed first in the Furry Division, and Newton and I came in last! I was proud of all four of us, but especially Newton, who's normal idea of exercise is rolling over on the couch. 

As part of the final preparations for the race, we wanted to make sure Nox had his summer haircut to keep him cool. He is always a little self-conscious after he gets it cut, and prefers to sit on only warm fabric surfaces or in our arms until his hair grows out. 

Modeling his new doo

Where he prefers to sit, ALL THE TIME

Watching the World Cup

Watching us drink coffee

Summer Days

 I am missing being able to have a hang out spot outside.... been dreaming about a good book, a margarita, and a hammock...

images obtained via pinterest.com

Swoon: Concrete

Over the past year, my brilliant artist of a brother has been working...and succeeding...at creating beautiful concrete counter tops, planters, bowls, tables, coffee drips, and other fantastic things. Watching him progress with this art form has opened my eyes to a world of possibilities that the medium of concrete has to offer. Up until now, the word concrete brought to mind a parking lot or sidewalk, whereas now I see a beautiful alternative to more common materials. I am amazed at how versatile it is; it can look contemporary or traditional, sleek or cozy, but my favorite quality is its natural textural.

It is super durable (duh), which makes it a perfect candidate for kitchen counters, fireplace hearths, and even bathtubs.

All images obtained via pinterest.com

Some Things

Things are slowly picking up here. A while ago, I found out that Home Decorators Collection had purchased five illustrations for their baby and children's section. Great to have another company selling my work, but I was even more excited to see their catalog this month. All five of my illustrations are featured in it, Toot! Toot! (that's my horn)...