I've Been Thinking About This All Week

From the fabulous minimalist blog, :mnmlist.

Modern 50 Vintage

There is a part of me that wants to decorate my house entirely in vintage grain sacks and French wire baskets and this site satiates this way of thinking. The images are gorgeous, (and the styling equally so ) and the vintage finds fantastic. And while I find the site tedious to sift through, the pictures are just too pretty to pass up.

Modern 50 is a Virginia-based shop, but given its online presence, anyone anywhere can purchase goods to be shipped. However, if you happen to live in New York City (or surrounding b0roughs), they just happen to be delivering to the city tomorrow (Saturday, February 26th). So if there's anything you can't live without in the Big Apple...

image via Modern 50

4 Steps to Easier {and Better} Craigslisting

A friend recently mentioned how Craigslist was a huge time waster for her and how she'd spend hours perusing the site without a single purchase. Huge bummer, right? But we've all been there and done that I'm sure. Craigslist is a particiular temptation when you live in a place where it's full of so much goodness that you're always worried about missing out on an incredible deal. This conundrum raises a question (albeit not really important in the grand scheme of things, but noteworthy nonetheless), "How does one find go about finding great deals on Craigslist without wasting precious time?". Here are my thoughts on the matter and a few things I've done to efficiently manage the beast called Craigslist:

1. Download Craigseasy...so that when you are searching for good stuff, you can search efficiently. View my step-by-step tutorial here.

2. Download a Craigslist app for your iPhone (if applicable). I've enjoyed this one.

3. Make a list of everything you need for your living space that you'd be willing to purchase on Craigslist (or anything else you'd like to look out for, i.e. gift cards, trades, tickets, etc.). Perhaps a used mattress isn't in order, but how about a house plant?

4. Then, after completing steps 1-3, take ten minutes each day to look for just those items. If you're allotting just 10 minutes a day to peruse the latest listings, you'll always be on top of your game. The need to spend 2 hours viewing backlogged postings will simply not exist. Plus, you'll be far more likely to snag the "latest and greatest" in just a matter of minutes.

Good luck searching!

image by Stephanie Brubaker / pen from Muji / notepad from Modern Palm Boutique

Real Life Home No.4

Funny story about today's feature...I spotted Emily's gorgeous interior shots on the front page of Etsy and immediately fell under a spell of interior envy. When I read that she is an attorney-by-day and not a professional designer, I was in even more awe. Isn't her home inspirational? So, anyway, I emailed Emily to present the idea of her Dallas home featured in the "Real Life Home" series and it turns out she is staying in La Maisonnette this Spring (my husband handles all bookings so I was not in-the-know). Can you believe what a small world it is? The two of us are dying over this random connection.

If you're curious how to achieve Emily's look, Etsy did a fabulous roundup, which you can view here. I wish they dissected more interior spaces like this more often. Super helpful!!

For those of you just tuning in, this series showcases living spaces decorated by people like you and me--people who are not formally trained in design...who mix new finds with antiques and secondhand pieces from Craigslist (or the like). People who have figured out, on their own, what looks and feels good in their living space.


























Pretty little sculpture--the perfect piece for her mantle. It can be trick to find just the right thing for one's mantle, and Emily nailed it! Also, I love the idea of dressing up what would otherwise be a blank wall, with a simple chair and hanging fabric. A budget-friendly decorating idea that looks upscale.
























I would never want to leave my bedroom if it was as cozy and cute as this one. I'm not even sure where to begin here...


























Wall vignettes that speak volumes despite being on the petite side. Also, are you rethinking dark walls like I am?























Love the mix of old and new, the natural light, those gorgeous built-in shelves, the doorstop, and Mr. Napoleon himself. That's it...I'm ready to move in!

More "Real Life Homes" here: No.1 / No.2 / No.3

all images by Emily McCall

Feeling Punchy: Basil-Infused Tropical Mocktail

A few years ago, I tore out a page in Blueprint with the most delicious-looking punch recipe; then became even more thrilled when I realized it didn't call for alcohol. We all need a fun "mocktail" recipe, right? So this month I finally gathered up all the ingredients (which oddly enough involved me packing boxes of beautifully-packaged juice in my luggage...will explain), and created this yummy concoction. And then I started the Blueprint-mourning process all over again...

Sharing the drink recipe over at Zupas today. It's the perfect party drink!

images by Stephanie Brubaker

Efficient Meal Planning

I've mentioned meal planning a handful of times on this blog over the past couple of years, but I've never outlined the manner in which I meal plan in such detail before. I thought it might be helpful if I did...so here it goes, my guide to efficient meal planning! Allow about 30 minutes to sit down and do this start to finish.

There are two paths to I like to take when planning meals; I've outlined them both below.

Method 1:

1. Look through pantry, freezer and fridge--get familiar with what you are working with this week. Do you still have panko left? a few boxes of pasta? some frozen corn? half a bunch of cilantro? I've learned that I spend less money, and enjoy nicer meals, when I consider what I should be using up before I purchase new ingredients.

2. I gather my recipe binder (basically a recipe version of this) and two other cookbooks I'm in the mood to reference that week. If I bookmarked a recipe online, I'll try to throw that in as well. As I peruse my recipe binder, I look for recipes that call for the ingredients I need to use up that week.

3. Then, I create 5 meals for the week allowing 1 night for leftovers or "brupper"* and 1 night for takeout/date night. The 5 meals are typically broken down like this: 2 vegetarian, 1 pasta (which may or may not include meat), 1 fish and 1 chicken entrees. About once a month I throw in red meat too. At this point in the planning I also consider simple side dishes...usually roasted vegetables because they are easy, delicious, and put those vintage cast iron pans of mine to good use! Think: roasted asparagus, potatoes, brussel sprouts, etc. I even hear roasted broccoli is good, but I've never prepared it that way--I'm a die-hard steam-the-broccoli-kind-of-girl.

4. Next, I create a shopping list outlining the ingredients I still need for the meals I've planned, trying to keep the items in some kind of order as I write them down. For example, I group the dairy items together, meat/seafood together, produce together, etc. Oh, and don't forget to write down non-food items on your list too (or items needed for your kids' lunches). I often re-write the list twice if I'm in the mood for a tidy, super-organized list. If the week includes a Costco run, I set aside a little corner to indicate items I plan on purchasing there instead of the standard grocery store.

OR Method 2:

Go to Whole Foods and buy only what is on sale; then proceed with steps 2-4 as indicated above. This is a great way to procure organic produce for the same price as conventional produce. I love the feeling of walking out of Whole Foods with a bag or two of fresh, organic produce that didn't cost more than the conventional fruits and vegetables I'd purchase otherwise.

The only downside with Method 2 is that it adds one more store to visit that week. If I need Huggies, Pantene, or Ziploc bags, I still have to make a trip to the regular grocery store. In the Summer, when you're more likely to hit a farmer's market or two, this is method to use too--just substitute "Whole Foods" with "Farmer's Market" and move forward with your meal planning from there.

I hope this helps you plan better meals, save money at the grocery store, and feel more organized about your eating habits! I know it's made a huge difference in my life over the past couple of years. If you have any other tips, feel free to share! One last note, if you are needing further inspiration as to what meals to plan for in the first place, feel free to peruse my "recipes to love" post or any of the "menu of the week" posts. Bon appetit!

image 1 - Stephanie Brubaker / image 2 - James Baigrie + Randy Mon for Sunset / image 3 - Stephanie Brubaker / image 4 - William Meppem for the Carefree Cook

Buttery Soft Moccasins + French Maternity Clothes

Feeling a bit punk today...trying to get over a hard case of the flu. Can I just say how much I dislike being sick? Lying in bed getting nothing done is overrated! In the meantime, I thought I'd share with you some fun Babble links. Lots of great finds this week...

Dear Susan sent Baby Gray these little moccs and they've fast become our favorite. I love how they stay on his feet. It turns out, I'm not the only one who loves 'em--they were featured on the cover of Parenting mag recently on the feet of a certain celebrity's baby...

Want to decorate your baby's nursery in a more sophisticated/non-cutesy way? Check out these rugs--they are beautiful enough to build a room around.

A simple, stylish maternity line from France...and they just happen to be majorly discounted right now.

Rikshaw Designs is hosting an online sample sale--details here. Don't miss your chance at any of their swoonworthy textiles!

My daughter loves these polkadot shoes and I have to admit they are my favorite too! There is something happy about donning polkadots...especially when they are on super sale.

image via Freshly Picked

More Thoughts on Blogging + Comparison

As many of you know, every now and again I've brought up the subject of comparison and the trap we often find ourselves in as bloggers (found here and here). You've responded honestly and shared many an excellent tip...thank you for being so open! I know your words have helped me keep my thoughts in check and to keep things "real" around here. Funny though, trying to avoid the comparison trap is not something that's easily mastered; rather, it's a lesson that requires revisiting on a frequent basis. At least this has been my experience.

A great place to start is Melanie's recent post about blogger jealousy. I love not only what she had to say, but the reader responses to her dilemma (she threw the question out on Twitter this week and received some great feedback). I hope you'll take a moment to read them! Also, I'd love to know what else you'd like to add. What do you do when you find yourself jealous of other bloggers? How do you combat those less-than-lovely feelings and move your mind to a place that's content and at peace with itself?

image by Stephanie Brubaker

The Perfect Kitchen

And, the obsession with white kitchens continues...

This space is absolutely heavenly. Superb even. The thick counter tops, the sink, the cupboards, the appliances, the light, the everything! Sigh...

Via Massucco Warner Miller

Eat Me: Satsumas

During my bi-monthly run to Whole foods, I spotted these gorgeous, fragrant satsuma oranges near the entrance. Initially, I decided to pick up a couple on a purely superficial basis--I liked they way they looked with their leaves still attached! However, their good looks didn't last long once my husband discovered their delicious taste; and I just had to let you know, in case you too have been eyeing them wondering if they're worth the slightly higher ticket price. I think by now you know the answer to that question :) {try one!}

image by Stephanie Brubaker

Baby Gray's Favorite Toys + Affordable Rugs

A handful of Babble links I think you'll enjoy this week!

5 Stylish Rugs under $500 (and most of them around $300). Great rugs are hard to find but hopefully me doing the legwork for you gets you ahead.

My favorite striped top of the season...and it's now on sale for 50% off. I love mine and wear it often.

Must-have toys for babies...all road-tested by you-know-who :)

Prettiest art supplies for children I've ever seen. Period. The packaging, the colors, oooh these are gorgeous! They stopped me in my tracks when I spotted them at a local shop.

Prettiest Cupcake Liners

Nothing cures the winter doldrums better than a pretty cupcake; and that's not difficult to create with these exquisite cupcake wrappers. Oh my goodness, these are gorgeous! I could easily plan an entire party around any of 'em. Swoon!

I am sharing these fabulous cupcake wrapper/liner sources over at Zupas today. Happy Baking!

Creating a Memorable Valentine's Day at the Last Minute

Since we also celebrate my husband's birthday just before Valentine's Day, the most romantic holiday of the year always creeps up on us. I often don't have a lot of time to prepare for Valentine's Day the way I'd like. While I wish it wasn't so, all of the adorable homemade Valentines and Valentine crafts circulating the internet this week are just a pipe dream around here. Next year? :) However, not having time to make homemade Valentines doesn't mean you can't have a lovely holiday today.

Here are a couple of super simple (and super cheap) things we are doing around here--things that mean a lot to the kids (and in the case of #4, the husband)--but take little preparation. You can pull all of these off today, even if you're reading this the morning of the 14th. Don't sweat it--pancakes for dinner are fun to eat every once in awhile!

1. Simple Decorations - this year I deconstructed this banner and randomly placed the individual hearts all over the kitchen. Cutting out hearts from construction paper and taping them all over the house would be just as meaningful to the kids--no die cut required.

2. Homemade heart pancakes - I just finished making a quick whole wheat pancake batter for the morning and am banking on the fact that I can create heart-shaped pancakes without a mold. The way I see it, homemade pancakes are homemade pancakes. Heart-shaped or not, they are still yummy and quite a treat on a school day.

3. A little treat on their plate - this year it's a box of pink Pocky accessorized with red/white baker's twine and a simple gift tag. Quick, run out to your local Asian market and pick some up to place on their dinner plate!

4. Make/buy a card and slip it in your husband's car (or briefcase if he doesn't drive to work).

Happy Valentine's Day to you all. xoxo Stephanie

Real Life Home No.3

Continuing on with the newly-formed "Real Life Home" series...here is no.3:

For those of you just tuning in, this series showcases living spaces decorated by people like you and me--people who choose not to, or can't afford formally-trained interior designers; people who mix new finds with antiques and secondhand pieces from Craigslist (or the like). People who have figured out, on their own, what looks and feels good in their living space.

Today's "Real Life Home" marks the third living space featured in this series and is home to Kirsten Grove--creator of the Simply Grove blog. I had the chance to meet Kirsten at ALT last month and was thoroughly impressed with her style, friendliness and ability to balance life, work and family. Suffice it to say I learned a few things from her--she has a solid head on her shoulders that Kirsten! And seriously, is her home in Boise amazing or what? It just goes to show, you don't have to live in a schmancy urban environment to have a cool living space. You can create a stylish home anywhere you live; which, is such an important thing to remember.

View no.1 and no.2 in the series here.

all images by Kirsten Grove

The Walrus + the Carpenter

We recently experienced one of the most enjoyable dining experiences of our marriage at a local restaurant called The Walrus & the Carpenter. Random name, great restaurant. The location is slightly off-the-beaten path and not an eatery you'd discover just wandering around--rather, it's more of a destination. The ambiance at the Walrus is a mix of Pacific Northwest and French industrial, which we found most appealing. The music was rockin' and I found myself "shazaming" every other song (next time I'll ask what Pandora station is on rotation).

Then there was the food...none of it was anything I'd ever made, or would likely ever make in my home kitchen...yet it was all amazing. You never knew sardines or kale could taste so good. Oh, and did I mention I tasted my first raw oyster? In fact, all 4 of us at the table took the plunge together and all agreed they were quite good (we tried the kumamoto). I'll definitely order them again. As if all of those redeeming qualities weren't enough, The Walrus is not an expensive restaurant. And when you're shelling out for a sitter, it's so nice not to break the bank eating out. Can't wait to go back...

all images by Stephanie Brubaker

My Dream Chair + an Attractive Job Chart

I am super excited about all of the deals I'm sharing over at Babble this week. Nothing thrills me more than finding an incredible deal on something I really love. Let's first begin with these chairs...

Ever since I spotted them in Met Home awhile back (r.i.p.), I've dreamed of owning one myself. Word up: I found a reproduction at 75% off! The next question is...does anyone here in Seattle want to split a set with me? I just need one...

If you didn't snatch this up the first time around, here's your chance to stock your library with one of the best decorating books ever...at a sizable discount. I just picked up my own copy last week and am blown away at how good a resource it is! Why oh why didn't I pick this up earlier?

These are the prettiest monogrammed notes ever. In fact, they are so lovely you could even frame 'em (read about a cheap way to custom frame here.).

If you're like me and just starting to think about 2011 calendars, here's one to try on for size. It's a real statement piece and unlike any other calendar circulating the blogosphere right now.

As a parent, I am constantly searching for a system that will decrease the "nagging" around here. This just might be it.

Oh, and did you check to see if you were one of two winners of the Tiny Prints Giveaway on Monday evening? Take a peek at the top o' the post and see if it was your lucky day :)

image via Metropolitan Home

Easy {Homemade} Crumb Cake + an Edible Valentine

Last Friday I was feeling a bit glum; so, I decided to do something to shake myself out of my crummy mood. I decided that making a simple, delicious cake was the first step :)...and then giving most of it away was the second. Based on experience, the best way to chase away a foul mood is by doing something nice for someone else.

So, I whipped out some pie boxes, parchment and twine and placed a wedge of crumb cake in each box. After I assembled them all, I realized how cute they would be for Valentine's Day next week...so I added a few more to the shop. How fun to present a few friends with a little package for the holiday (because Valentine's Day isn't just for your lovah)!

In the meantime, you can find my easy crumb cake recipe here. I think you'll agree that it's a keeper!

all images by Stephanie Brubaker

Kelly Neidig Landscapes

I love to clue you in when I discover gorgeous, affordable, original art; and artist Kelly Neidig certainly fits the bill. Her work is stunning! If you're lucky enough to live in Portland, check out her gallery show later this Spring at Guardino. Also, she has a little etsy shop too!

Welcome Ticket Kitchen

Attention all fine-chocolate lovers (that's like 99.9% of you, right?)...you'll love this innovative way to consume our favorite treat--chocolate! But, this isn't your average chocolate--it's fine, French couverture and it's on a stick! Created by two foodies--one raised in Venezuela and one in San Francisco--new sponsor Ticket Kitchen is taking away this winter with these fun, well-packaged, hot-chocolate-on-a-stick kits. Perfect for an upcoming shower, birthday party or girls night "in". I also think it would be sweet to pick up a set for you and your sweetheart to enjoy together on Valentine's Day. Thanks to priority shipping, that's possible if you order in the next few days.

For those who like to plan pretty parties, Ticket Kitchen also offers free downloads on their website. The colorful toppers are just darling and make me want to plan a party asap. Someone I know needs to have a baby soon so I can do just that!

images via Ticket Kitchen

A Sneak Peek at Anthropologie's Wedding Concept: BHLDN

Oh boy, these stunning photos from Anthropologie's wedding concept, BHLDN*, are making me wish I could plan my wedding all over again! A concept like this is overdue...I can't think of anything I've seen anywhere else that embodies a feminine, Bohemian wedding look with an air of classic styling. Love.

Also coming this Spring from BHLDN...shoes (which they emphatically claim will not have the capability of being dyed!), bags, jewelry, invitations, notions, favors, hair accessories, cover ups and intimate apparel. All Wedding related...and all gorgeous I'm sure. The concept is appropriately debuting on Valentine's Day...of course :)

*heads up: there is music on their website...it's lovely, sweet and trance-like...but music nonetheless. So if you're at work...

image 1 - Anthropologie / all other images via BHLDN website

Five Months

I've had a handful of requests lately for pictures of Baby Gray...today I thought I'd indulge :)

Lately I can't get enough of his chubby cheeks (who knew he was 2.5 weeks early?!), his smiles and even his drool (poor little guy is teething like crazy!). I'm trying to relish in him as much as possible, amidst the chaos; sometimes this translates into me going nuts with the baby talk, but I just can't help myself. Knowing how silly I sound to other adults still doesn't stop me! This is the last time I have a little baby all to myself so I'm doing my best to savor each day.

Ali is Back {and Better than Ever}

Remember darling Ali of the Salt-Lake-City-based blog, Your Heart Out? Well, her blogging hiatus is over (yay!) and she's back to sharing her stylish life with us via Ali Loves Curtis. I am really excited to see Ali back to regular blogging--YHO was a "daily" and I've missed her witty writing style and great tips for some time now.

p.s. is that not one of the most well-designed wall displays you've ever seen? love!

image via Ali Loves Curtis

Welcome PopRocks Design

Today I'd like to introduce you to PopRocks Design--a husband and wife team aiming to make the world a more positive place--one print at a time! "He" is a graphic designer and "she" is a marriage & family therapist; and together they create uplifting, retro-inspired art that's meant to brighten our spirits and emit good vibes.

Anyway, please give a warm welcome to new sponsor PopRocks Design. In return they'd like to offer you a little somethin'--a discount off your first order! Enjoy 10% off with discount code "STEPHMODO". Isn't it so great that Etsy allows discount codes now?!

Tiny Prints Valentine GIVEAWAY

Our two winners...congratulations!

































Happy February dear readers! Today I have a sweet giveaway to present to you--one that not just one of you has the chance to win, but two of you. In honor of Valentine's Day, Tiny Prints would like to gift two readers a $50 gift card! I'm guessing you'll find this exciting for one of two reasons...1. you missed the boat on Christmas cards and want to redeem yourself to friends and family members or 2. you appreciate the old-fashioned tradition of sending sweet, little Valentines. Whatever your motivation, having $50 to spend at Tiny Prints is reason enough to send tidings of love and admiration to those who mean the most to you.

Start scheming as to what you'll spend your $50 on right here. Good luck!

Giveaway Guidelines:

- You have 4 days to enter this giveaway (closes Saturday, February 5th at midnight).
- Make 1 comment on this post to enter.
- Anonymous comments will be ignored so make sure we know who you are!
- The winners will be chosen via random.org and announced on Monday, February 7th at the top of this post.
- Winners, time is of the essence with this particular giveaway so please respond asap. Thanks!

Martha Stewart for Chanel

I'm getting a kick out of these images of Martha Stewart back in the 60's and 70's (more here). Did you know she was once a model for Chanel? She is quite the bombshell one minute and a perfectly coiffed, prepster mum the next. Love it!

via Dwellers without Decorators and Styleite

Authentic French Crêpes

After living in France and French-speaking Switzerland for a couple of years, my husband returned with a tiny notebook full of simple recipes. Top of the list? a recipe for authentic French crêpes. These days we are on a bit of a crêpe craze and have been putting the recipe to excellent use!

Given our recent obsession, I thought it would be fun to share the recipe with you over at Zupas today. Bon appetit!

p.s. it's the same recipe we used during my daughter's Paris Party--it works for both savory and sweet crêpes fyi.

image by Stephanie Brubaker