Happy New Year!

Wishing you better things to come in 2011.

Happy Holidays!

Between work, shopping, and all the parties to attend during the holiday season, I'm pooped, and it isn't even Christmas yet. So for this post I have no insightful design ideas for you, no point of view, no marvelous decor ideas that have caught my eye. I only have a few random pics and my deepest wishes for a wonderful holiday.

Happy Holidays from The Art Of...!!!!!!

Photo credit: 1. Patty Wreford; 2. Polka Dot Bride; 3. Martha Stewart; 4. Style Me Pretty

Christmas List ( A Girl Can Dream...)

I stopped getting the items I wanted off my list when I was a teenager. I know I won't really get these things, but what's wrong with dreaming a little? Some items are more attainable than others, but it's more of a wish list, so who cares?!

A pair of Louboutin black pumps

An Audi A8 (in black)

A mountable stainless steel fireplace

Kindle

6-quart stainless steel crock pot

Nintendo Wii

Pottery Barn's apothecary jars

Bose IE2 in-ear headphones

Candace Olsen (HGTV) coming over to re-do my home!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

Easy Peasy Holiday Decor

Holiday decor doesn't have to break the bank. How simple and inexpensive is this wreath? You can easily find these ornaments on the cheap at a crafts store, dollar store, or in your closet.

Photo credit: Achados de Decoracao

How Will You Set Your Table for the Holidays?

I've mentioned before that setting a table is art. The holidays are a prefect time to display some of your artistic talents, whether it's the decoration you place around the house, dressing a Christmas tree, creating a wonderful meal, or masterfully designing a table for a holiday dinner. I've also said, eating a good meal should also include ambiance. The food always tastes better when you feel comfortable with the environment you're eating in and that environment evokes positive emotions.

Photo Credit: 1. Delish.com; 2,3, 4. HGTV; 5. getmarried.com; 6. Chez Larsson

Global Sophistication

I'll take that chandelier and sofa, thank you...

And that fascinating mug may come with me too.

When You Use What You Buy

The vase I bought from CB2 was a great purchase for my office. It has inspired me to buy flowers for my desk every week. Ugh, I just added an expense. But 5-6 bucks a week at Trader Joe's isn't bad. It brings life to my daily routine, and that is priceless. I'm going to cut back on buying lunch everyday to compensate for expense.

It has also inspired me to think more thoughtfully about my purchases. Are you using what you buy? If you find that you are buying items that are not even put to good use, maybe you should think twice before kicking out that cash. It's hard I know, but from here on out, I am going try to be a more conscious shopper. "Try" is the operative word ;-)

Happy Veterans Day to all the veterans that served for our country. And a big "thank you" to our soldiers currently fighting on behalf of our country. Praying that you return home soon.

A Season of Inspiration

It's fall. Time for warm sweaters, hot soups, and cozy beds. This is such an aesthetically pleasing time of year. So many inspirations come from the fall season...

Photo by Nayein

Decorpad

Boozy Milkshakes and Some More Stuff

Last night I tried the most delectable milkshake ever. The Baileys Caramel Macchiatto milkshake at Ted's Bulletin made my head spin it was so delicious. If you're in the DC area, this is a must try. And The Walk of Shame Breakfast Burrito is the perfect compliment. I left so full and satisfied that I became worried that maybe this is as good as it gets...

Happy Weekend!

I've worked 12 straight days, and tomorrow will make it 13. I would love to be in these guys' position right now. Hope you have a relaxing weekend with no work involved! Happy Weekend!

Photo Credit: Peter Margonelli

Thursday Cheer

It's gloomy, raining, and cold. BUT... my new vase from CB2 came in the mail (along with my new Whirly Candle Holders). I put it in my office along with some bright flowers to bring some cheer. Not bad for 20 bucks. One more day and it's "Happy Weekend!"

Super Mario Bros. Turns 25

On September 13, 2010, Mario turned 25 (I know, I'm late). I grew up on Super Mario Bros. Nintendo was the best thing ever! I think it was the only way I got through the winters.

Check out this incredible tribute to the video game's theme music. So cool! Brings back memories...

Happy Birthday, Mario!

Reflection

"Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself. Do not lose courage in considering you own imperfections but instantly set about remedying them - every day begin the task anew."

-Saint Francis de Sales

I thought this quote was perfectly applicable to both life and design...

I Spy... Amazing Floating Candlelight

The CB2 Whirly Candle Holders have caught my eye, and I will not rest until I buy them and hang them in my own home. They are a click away at cb2.com, and at $3.95 a piece, they are more than affordable. I can make a fabulous lighting fixture on the cheap. Meanwhile, until that package from CB2 is in my hands, I only have these lovely images to hold me over.

Pinky Brown Re-Design

modernthrifter.com

decor8blog.com

flickr.com via Apartment Therapy

cb2.com

The Art of Seeing Potential

I believe I am the type of person that is able to see past the surface, and look at the potential in things. Sometimes I see more potential than there actually is, but it's better to overreach and possibly discover something wonderful or life changing, than it is to sit back and find nothing at all.

Anyhoo... A loooong time ago (ok, not that long ago), I saw this "antique couch" for sale on Craigslist through the ever so popular blog, Apartment Therapy. I just had to have it. Even though it was more traditional than my taste usually allows, I saw the potential. But I just knew it was sold because once something is seen on AT, it goes viral. But the stars aligned, and the universe wanted me to have this couch- it was available. Done and done. I bought it.

After I putting my personal touch on it and using spray primer and black semi-gloss spray paint, here is the result...

The End of a Season

Summer is coming to an end and I am definitely not looking forward to the cold months. Sigh... a tear just dropped and I am dedicating it to the last days of warmth and short shorts. Although the fall and winter bring great clothes, snazzy coats, bold colors, and hearty food, summer will certainly be missed.

This is not goodbye, but see you later...

Photo credit: 1. Tartelette; 2. Z Gallerie; 3. Geoff White Photography; 4. Juriachan via diviantArt; 5. deviantArt.