Pretty New Postal Stamp

My love affair with beautiful postal stamps began when the Georgia O'Keefe "Poppies" stamp was issued shortly after I purchased some "Poppies" greeting cards from a museum gift shop.  I remember my 20-year-old self wondering if anyone would notice that the stamp matched the card :)

Since it's always a nice touch to adorn a handwritten note with a lovely stamp, I was thrilled to spot these gorgeous, modern, abstract flower stamps the other day at the PO.  I inquired about them immediately and before I knew it, there lay a sheet on the counter.  They are the most colorful, cheerful and whimsical stamps I've seen in some time.  I love the bold red trim on the imperfect stool and the tiny pops of color in that folksy bouquet.  I cannot wait to pick up some more and then hoard them for a few years (they are forever stamps so I can totally do that!).  

If your local PO is sold out of them for some reason, then feel free to order them online.  It's super easy and costs $1.  I've used the service before and loved it.  Also, if you want to read up on the artist, William H. Johnson, peruse this entry briefly.  Such an interesting life he led...and a big sad too (like all famous artists it seems).  

Now off you go to write an old-fashioned, handwritten letter, okay?  Give one of your friends or family members something other than a hum-drum bill in their mailbox! 

images by me

Beautiful Brushes

Over time I've come to realize how much I enjoy and appreciate the domestic niceties that elevate otherwise mundane tasks.  For example, I love the way Savon de Marseille feels between my hands as I wash up before preparing dinner for my family (pamplemousse/grapefruit is my all-time favorite scent).  I also appreciate the shiny, chrome dustpan I brought back from Holland every time I reach for it (which these days is at least 3x/day with messy, little Baby Gray in the house).  There is just something about pretty cleaning supplies that almost gets me excited to clean ("almost" being the keyword here :)).

When I spotted all these beautiful European and Japanese-made brushes over at Brook Farm General Store this week, I started "oohing" and "aahing" out loud.  I love the melange of wood, bristles, metal and twine.  Gorgeous.  Oh how I'd love a big, galvanized steel tub full of these beautiful brushes...wouldn't you?  Does anyone else out there get excited about these sorts of things? :)

You can view all these lovelies (and more) over at Brook Farm General Store.

Dutch Bicycles

This week I began a campaign to convince my in-laws, who live in the Netherlands for a little while longer, to bring me back a Dutch bicycle :)  Ha!  We will see how successful I am, but I am dreaming of one of these pretties anyway.  When in Holland last year it seemed like everyone rode their bikes everywhere regardless of how old or young they were.  It was so inspiring!  Granted they have dedicated bike paths all over the place, better ensuring their safety, but still, I feel there is something to be learned from it all.  Maybe if I had a lovely bicycle I would be better about staying in shape?  Kind of like if I had an organized, well-lit laundry room I would actually do the laundry? :) 

images 1, 3 from Beaux Mondes, a blog showcasing a pretty girl riding around on a pretty bicycle  /  image 2 - Copenhagan Cyclery

A Touch of Green

Many years ago my friend Beverly, (who is also a party planning maven) shared with me a tip about placing "a touch of green" inside your living space.  I decided to give it a try and scattered a few plants about my apartment...on the bookcase, on the kitchen counter, etc.  I felt an immediate difference by infusing life into my home with all sorts of green...moss, fern, succulents, hardy kalanchoes, etc.  As an added bonus, the project isn't spendy; most smallish plants cost around $5.



As far as planters go, I love a pretty terrarium...always (sources: 1 / 2 / 3 ).  They are particularly ideal for those of us with little ones running around as the plants remain protected.  If you feel like your thumb is more brown than green, start with a succulent-based terrarium, which requires little maintenance.  Another option would be a closed top terrarium, which requires little to no watering.  If a terrarium just isn't your thing, consider adding your "touch of green" in a different way; these new ceramic wall planters from the Shane Powers for West Elm line are pretty nifty.  Last, I love the Scheurich line of pots and planters found at nicer nurseries.  It's a modern, German line that is reasonably priced and features clean lines.  Here in Seattle you can find many of them out at Molbaks, as well as a more limited selection at Swansons (they go on sale tomorrow - 25% off).

p.s. here is a great tutorial on how to plant a terrarium if you're interested.  

image via West Elm

La Fin de l'Année

Hello, hello! A belated Merry Christmas to you all!  How was your holiday?  Did you find that you were able to enjoy yourself and truly savor this special time of year?  I hope so...everyone deserves a nice Christmas.  We were fortunate enough to spend a very relaxed holiday with friends...friends who kindly allowed a very curious Baby Gray to eat the popcorn garlands from the bottom third of their Christmas tree all evening...all in the name of enjoying lots of adult conversation.  If that isn't true friendship, I don't know what is!

So it's December 29th and you're likely already thinking about what you want to experience, become and accomplish in 2012.  Isn't it wonderful that we have a fresh start ahead of us, a new chapter in our lives so to speak?  I am grateful for this new season of life and the chance I have to improve myself and develop better habits.  At the top of my list for 2012 is tackling my health, in all forms.  It's been on my mind for awhile and now that I'm 35, I feel a sense of urgency.  According to many health-related studies I've read, this is the age where everything starts to count.  Ay yay yay.

What about you?  What is on your mind?  Do you have a goal or two up your sleeve?

p.s. when I think of paper whites, I cannot help but associate them with January and New Year's Day.  How lucky we are that such a pretty flower can bloom in the most dreary of months, reminding us of beauty and hope.  Have a wonderful day my friends...see you tomorrow!

image by Nina Broberg for IKEA Livet Hemma - used with permission

Evergreen Gift Toppers

One of the best things about living in Seattle is all the green.  Green, green and more green.  I love the varieties of plants, bushes and trees all within a square city block.  It's an absolute visual treat!  I wanted to incorporate some of this local beauty into gift wrapping this year and snatched these {mostly} evergreen clusters up to play the role of gift toppers this year.  But seriously, even if you don't live in a place where evergreens abound, you can still put this idea to use...most succulents would make lovely gift toppers!  There is just something about the simple beauty of a plant that adds an air of cozy sophistication to a brown paper package tied up with string.

p.s. more simple gift wrapping ideas last week...in case you missed 'em.  Happy wrapping!



images by Stephanie Brubaker for stephmodo

Holiday Activities + other Fun Links

*  Lindsay introduced me to this beautiful new-to-me blog called Dear Friend.  I'm not sure why, but this picture above will not leave my mind.  I keep studying the tiny details and cannot get over how utterly gorgeous it is in the most candid way.  Also, I just learned from this blog that the famed Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream has an outpost in Nashville.  If you live in either place I hear it's a must-visit!

*  Marilyn is sharing a free holiday playlist that you can stream on your computer while you're working, playing or surfing.  Partake here - look at the sidebar.

*  Now is the time to watch all those fun holiday movies--some with kids and some without 'em.  I shared my picks last year and it was fun to peruse them again myself!  It's funny how you forget things here and there (or is it just me?!).

*  Last, if you're in the Seattle area and looking for a fun activity with your kids, take them to the Museum of Flight.  It's pretty darn amazing.  Plan to spend a few hours there to get your money's worth.  Your kids will love it!

image 1 - Rebekka Seale of Dear Friend  /  image 2 - Stephanie Brubaker for stephmodo

Doolittle Magazine

I need a shot of pretty today...and you?  No Black Friday speak here :)

"Smitten" is the word that describes how I feel about the simple, creative, minimal styling in French magazine, Doolittle.  If I had to choose my favorite element, I think the hydrangeas taped to the wall with washi tape would take first place.  However, there are so many tiny details to appreciate, it is difficult to choose (that polkadot dress...swoon!).  In my dreams my girls closet, bedroom and playroom would look like the pages of Doolittle.  Le sigh...

images via Doolittle Magazine

Modern Quilts

Serveral years ago I discovered the beautiful, modern quilts of Denyse Schmidt and since then have not only remained a loyal fan of all her lines, but to others that create a fresh contemporary look in their own quilt designs.  Since the chilly, dark, and rainy weather seems to have settled in up here in the PNW, I cannot help but to think of cozying up with one of these cheery favorites:

dots quilt  /  paris map quilt  /  blue and chartreuse quilt  

color study quilt   /  blue airplane quilt   /  paint chip quilt in orange

Family Style: Inspiring Swedish Interior

I recently discovered a beautiful Swedish blog written by a mother with impeccable taste. I have absolutely no idea what she is saying on her blog, but her images speak a thousand words to me.  I feel like I'm picking up all sorts of little design ideas, darling party tips and at the very least, very much appreciating her white-on-white style.  Note that while the images on her blog are a bit fuzzy, it's still a worthwhile peek.  In fact, it's more than worthwhile, it's mesmerizing!

Find Julias' blog here.

update: Google Chrome is apparently the answer to translating the blog.  I've got to get out of the Dark Ages...(I'm still on Firefox!)



images via Julias Vita Drömmar

Caitlin Wilson Textiles

Caitlin Wilson is one of those women who is brimming with grace and talent.  And she is so darn nice that you just hope that good things happen in her life.  I've had the pleasure of hosting Caitlin at a cooking class in my home a couple of years ago and I have nothing but wonderful things to say about her or the group of friends and family members she came with that evening.

So it's with great pleasure that I share with you today that she now has her very own line of textiles, appropriately called Caitlin Wilson Textiles.  Isn't that exciting?  I love seeing women venture out as entrepreneurs and find success--it makes me so happy and inspires me to seek out my own "niche".
Caitlin offers fabric by the yard as well as ready-made pillow covers in 4 different standard sizes.  Many of the fabrics can be grouped together for a unified, yet unique look.  They are all incredibly beautiful and even just one pillow would brighten things up a bit.

Happy Friday!

This Week's Links to Love

A few of my favorites on the web recently...

Love the insightful dating tips and marriage tips on A Blog About Love.  Danny and Mara recently found each other after their first marriages didn't work out and I appreciate how open they are about what they've learned along the way.  They cut the fluff and talk about real stuff.  Consider it cheap therapy :)

Carrie threw a darling Pie Party recently and it made me want to put those pie boxes to good use.  November could definitely be a great month for a pie party...

I adore these vases...because sometimes you don't want to see the stems {via Sunset mag}.

Heather shares my love for all things pumpkin related and I think we all need to try her Pumpkin French Toast.  Hello stretchy pants! 

Really enjoying the mesh of food, photography and travel over at La Buena Vida these days.  I discovered Nicole's amazing blog after she started following me on Twitter (which is a great place for new discoveries--you should jump on!).  Her blog gives me just a tidge of wanderlust. 

image 1 - Rachel Thurston Photography / image 2 - Carrie Stroud Photography

Repetto

One boutique in Paris I find intriguing is Repetto, the famous maker of ballerina flats and pointe shoes.  I've yet to walk inside, but I've passed one after hours and it looks like a tiny piece of heaven all lit up in satin, ribbon and bows.  Their storefronts are so intoxicating that you're that much more likely to purchase a pair of shoes because of them (that is, if you make it there during business hours!). If you've ever donned a pair of Repettos yourself, would you say they are as amazing as they're famed to be? Inquiring minds want to know...

More pretty Repetto photos after the jump...consider these your "shot o' pretty" for the weekend.  Just click on "read more" to see more storefronts and pretty shoes.   

Billy Buttons

Good morning!  I'd like to introduce you to my current obsession...billy buttons (also known as "craspedia").  They are the sweetest, cutest li'l things I've seen in some time.  They are yellow.  They are tiny.  And they look kind of like cake pops.  What's not to love?  I want to put them everywhere!

I adore the way they are used in these unique wedding arrangements. They look fantastic as boutonnieres and act as the perfect, dainty accent with fresh flowers too--they compliment the coral peonies above in the most unexpected way.  And while I'm not in the flower business or anything, I'm guessing using billy buttons would lower one's flower costs fairly significantly if one was planning a wedding on a budget...what a great option for a bride on the hunt for dried flowers.

Pretty billy button invitations...


And a lovely bunch of 'em for maximum impact.  Love it all!


image 3 - Kelli Kano via Ruffled  /  image 1 - Katie Day Photography via Ruffled  /  image 3 - Pink Lily Press  /  image 4- Flores del Sol

Laurie Rollitt Watercolor Book Covers

A little shot o' pretty for your Monday morning...gorgeous, watercolor book covers by UK-based illustrator Laurie Rollitt.  Here in our home we have a soft spot for James and the Giant Peach--isn't that cover fantastic?

images via Laurie Rollitt via Hannah Dollery

Repurposing Savon de Marseille

I feel like I'm finally at the stage in life where I prefer to have fewer, but nicer things (boy, that took awhile!).  No longer do $9.99 price tags tempt me (unless of course I would've paid full-price for them as I loved them that much) and as a result, I spend less and enjoy life more.  I also feel an increased appreciation for what I do have--a good feeling indeed!

One of the small niceties I like to treat myself to every once in awhile are these pretty Savon de Marseille liquid soaps from France.  When overseas I like to purchase a few bottles for La Maisonnette, but thankfully you can find them just as easily here in the States (my source is Modern Palm).  These well-designed French soap bottles are beautiful, sturdy, and full of some of the best soap in the world.  They certainly brighten my entire day...all day...as I am constantly washing my hands (4 kids will do that to ya!).  If you consider cost per use, we're down in the pennies and I'd say that's a pretty darn good deal.

When you're finally out of soap (and thankfully it takes awhile as a little goes a long way), run your bottle and pump through the dishwasher and repurpose it as a vase!  It's an excellent vessel for a few small stems or one thick stem (i.e. a sunflower).  When you're in the mood to change things up again, but want to keep things budget-friendly, try filling the Savon bottle with whatever liquid hand or dish soap you have on hand.  And then start the cycle all over again :)

p.s. I like to keep a few extra bottles-turned-vases on hand for gifts too.  They make the perfect little pick-me-up!

images by Stephanie Brubaker for stephmodo

This Week's "Links to Love"

On the docket this week is a little business and pleasure in Salt Lake City.  We've only been here one day but already enjoying the close proximity of the mountains, the dry heat, the beautiful skies and meeting our new niece, Claire.  Holding a newborn makes me feel like Baby Gray is so big...and I guess he is in a way as he turns one this week (!!).

In the meantime, here are a few thoughts and links I thought I'd pass your way:

You must know I'm having so much fun preparing images for this week's Real Life Home...or shall I say "Real Life Tower".  Yup, this family of 4 lives in a tower...like Rapunzel as my kids say. 

Did you see the gorgeous images from Kate Moss' English countryside wedding?  What a refreshing change from the typical over-the-top celebrity wedding.  The details were simple but stunning.  You can read more about it and see more images in Vogue. 

This recipe makes me want to attempt a galette.  Two words: "rhubarb" and "creme fraiche" and that's really all I need to know. 

We recently became hooked on "green drinks" in the morning...even my kids love them, which I admit I didn't expect.  I've got these drink recipes, as well as a few others from Twitter friends, at the top of my list.  What's your favorite?

Do you ever peek at the Design Public Outlet?  There are amazing deals to be had on modern furnishings and linens and it's quite full at the moment. 

I know it feels like Summer is ending for many for you, but in Seattle it feels like it's only the beginning!  We are banking on an Indian Summer so I still have sandals on my brain.  I spotted a lovely woman wearing yellow Saltwater sandals recently and she looked fabulous.  I realized these are not only for the little ones ladies!  I found the best price online here.

This watermelon salad/pizza thing on new-to-me food blog Lottie + Doof is so pretty...would you eat it?  I think it would look lovely on a buffet and would certainly be a topic of conversation.  

image by Mario Testino

Daily Dose of "Pretty"

...because sometimes you just need a little shot of gorgeousness to inspire your day :)

I have some pretty things to share with you this morning...a lovely, original {and affordable!} watercolor by Jenny Vorwaller that instantly reminded me of some cupcakes I made with edible flowers...Pantone postcards in their prettiest 100 hues (oh the possibilities!)...a pretty gold cuff that's on sale right now--cuffs are my favorite...and another peek at Sara Hicks Malone's home.  Her kitchen is one of the few non-all-white-kitchens that I adore. 

Here are links to all the above:

gold split cuff - $27 / "Blooms" original watercolor -$35 / Pantone postcards (Chronicle Books - $20 / Amazon $13.50)

Sara Hicks Malone home / vanilla cupcakes with flowers

John Robshaw Textiles

I love discovering new fabric sources...good ones can be so difficult to find.  I've learned that it's more gratifying in the long run to buy nicer fabric and have a pillow constructed for a reasonable price (on etsy or Craigslist you can almost always find a taker).  It ends up costing the same as one from a nice home furnishings chain, yet you enjoy it so much more because it's "you" and carefully reflective of your living space.  These beautiful textiles and patterns from John Robshaw Textiles are stunning and ideal in small, vibrant doses.  Never underestimate the power of a gorgeous pattern...talk about good vibes and positive energy!

 images via John Robshaw

Geronimo Balloon SALE

You have less than 48 hours to snag these gorgeous artisan balloons from Geronimo Balloon Troopers at a 50% discount. Super amazing, right?! Find them in blush and ivory over in 100 Layer Cake's Pop Up shop today and tomorrow. Stock up for that out-of-this-world shower you're going to throw your best friend, or perhaps a wedding is in your future? Whatever the occasion, here is your chance at a deep discount. But remember, the sale ends on Friday night so don't procrastinate on this one :)

View the Geronimo Balloon Trooper pop-up shop here.

images via Geronimo Balloon Troopers