Susan

How I Foiled a Pickpocket Thief in the Khan Al-Khalili Bazaar in Cairo

November 13, 2018 by Susan 30 Comments

After visiting the Hanging Church in Cairo, I was less than thrilled when our guide announced we were next headed to the souks of Cairo, also known as the Khan Al-Khalili Bazaar. When I hear the word "souk," it brings back terrible memories of the all the souks we visited during my trip to Morocco with Overseas Adventure Travel in March 2017. In Morocco, the souks were always super crowded, smelled bad … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Egypt, Travel Tagged With: Credit Card Scanning, Pickpocket, Travel, Travelon Bag

Great Storage Idea for Handbags Or Collectibles & All the Details To Create It

November 12, 2018 by Susan 20 Comments

Welcome the 511th Metamorphosis Monday! If you've been reading BNTOP for a while, I know you're familiar with this view of my home office. On the other side of my office, there's a cozy, little reading corner. Several years ago I hung a Bucket List Travel Map above the chair here in the office, hoping it would keep me inspired and focused on seeing more of our big, … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After Metamorphosis Monday, Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods

Christmas Shopping This Weekend & Taking Advantage of the Best Sales

November 10, 2018 by Susan 30 Comments

During the day on Tuesday, my lights went out three times. They weren't out long, just long enough to get all the clocks in the house flashing away. Later that night as I was getting into bed, they went out and stayed out for good. I have no idea what was going on with the power in our neighborhood that day but when I looked out the window, I could see the whole street was out. I never felt panicked … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods

Beauty & the Beast Birthday Table Featuring Beauty & the Beast Collectibles

November 8, 2018 by Susan 34 Comments

Welcome to the 528th Tablescape Thursday! Happy to say I have turned the corner with this yucky cold/virus I caught my last couple of days in Egypt. The fever is gone and I'm finally starting to get my energy back now, which is good since the holidays are upon us! Thanks so much for all your comments on yesterday's post. I'm so glad you enjoyed our crazy adventure at the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Birthday Tablescapes, Children's Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Beauty & the Beast, Beauty and the Beast, Beauty and the Beast Collectibles, Birthday Table, Birthday Tablescape, Lenox Porcelain Collectibles

In the Footsteps of Agatha Christie: A Visit to the Old Cataract Hotel, Aswan, Egypt

November 7, 2018 by Susan 62 Comments

I have so many mixed emotions about my trip to Egypt. Every day was truly an adventure filled with wonder, but there were also moments that were disconcerting. As I share photos and experiences from my time in Egypt, I'll share it all--the good and the not-so-good. That way if you ever decide to put Egypt on your bucket list, you'll have an idea what to expect and things to hopefully avoid. Have I … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Africa, Egypt, Travel Tagged With: Agatha Christie, Aswan Egypt, Death on the Nile, Historic Hotel, Old Cataract Hotel

As Requested: Instructions & Resources to Make a Beautiful Colonial Williamsburg Fruit Fan for Christmas

November 5, 2018 by Susan 36 Comments

Welcome to the 510th Metamorphosis Monday! I awoke this morning around 4:00 am. I would say I'm still on Egypt time but I was doing this even when I was in Egypt. I wonder if that's why I got sick, not getting enough sleep. I don't know what's up with my body wanting to wake up so ridiculously early every day, but I wish it would stop. I'm still sick but feeling better each day. Thankfully, the fever … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After Metamorphosis Monday, Christmas Crafts, Christmas Decor, Christmas Holiday Home Tagged With: Christmas, Christmas Decoration, Colonial Williamsburg Christmas Decoration, Colonial Williamsburg Fruit Fan, Front Porch Decoration, Traditional Christmas Decorations

A Spooky but Elegant Halloween Table Setting with a Count Dracula Vampire Theme

November 1, 2018 by Susan 32 Comments

Welcome to the 527th Tablescape Thursday! Well, I did it again...got sick on a trip overseas. The last couple of days in Egypt, I felt like I was coming down with a bad cold. I spiked a high fever during the flight home and that has continued. It's been 102 all night. I'm going to try and see a doctor today. I sure hope I don't have a massive fall-out of hair like happened last time I ran a high … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Halloween Holiday Home, Halloween Table Settings, Halloween Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Dracula Theme, Halloween table setting, Vampire

Follow-up to Your Requests: 12 More Products I Use for Fabulous Before & Afters

October 29, 2018 by Susan 30 Comments

Welcome to the 509th Metamorphosis Monday! Good Morning! I had hoped to post a lot more while traveling across Egypt. Unfortunately, fast WiFi has been sadly lacking in many of the hotels. It reminds me of the days of dial-up--remember those? Ugh. I wish I could fast-forward technology right now so every hotel in the world would have high-speed internet. Dreaming! Fortunately, I was finally able to … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Inspire

What Do Travelers Really Wear When Visiting Egypt?

October 27, 2018 by Susan 25 Comments

It's 4 am here. Last night we arrived back in Cairo, having completed the Aswan-Abu Simble part of our trip. I can't wait to go through all the photos I've taken to share some of the highlights of this tour across Egypt! It will take some time to go through all the photos I've taken and to organize them for a post, but I hope to share those soon. I've received a few comments here and on Instagram … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Africa, Egypt, Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Travel Tagged With: Clothing, Dress, Egypt, Travel, Travel Clothes

An Egypt River Cruise: Sailing & Dining on the Nile River

October 24, 2018 by Susan 23 Comments

Welcome to the 526th Tablescape Thursday! We've had a lot of early mornings on this trip across Egypt and tomorrow will be another one as I'll be rising at 4:30 AM for a trip to Abu Simbel. The WiFi on our boat is the pitts. If you use more than a certain amount, it logs you out and you have to request a new password at the front desk to continue. I've lost count of how many new passwords I've had to … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Egypt, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday, Travel Tagged With: Egypt, Farah River Cruise, Nile River, Nile River Cruise, Travel

Thinking Ahead to Christmas: Colonial Williamsburg Style Door Idea

October 22, 2018 by Susan 31 Comments

Welcome to the 508th Metamorphosis Monday! I had an interesting start to my morning! I awoke around 4 am Egypt time and was laying in bed thinking about my Met Monday post when the power went out. I noticed it immediately because the A/C stopped and everything went very dark. It's a weird feeling to be on the top (5th) floor of a hotel and have all the power go out. Fortunately, I knew where my phone … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After Metamorphosis Monday, Christmas Crafts, Christmas Decor, Christmas Holiday Home, DIY Crafts & Sewing Tagged With: Apple Fruit Fan, Christmas, Christmas Decorations, Christmas DIY, Colonial Williamsburg, Colonial Williamsburg Decorations

A Visit to the Giza Plateau & the Last Remaining Member of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World

October 20, 2018 by Susan 44 Comments

Hello from Egypt! How has your week been going? The last few days have been a bit of a whirlwind. I had hoped to post before now but it's taken longer to go through photos than I had expected. I've been posting a bunch on Instagram, though...so be sure and follow there for daily updates. You'll find BNOTP on Instagram here: BNOTP. If you ever visit Egypt to see the pyramids, I can definitely recommend a … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Africa, Egypt, Travel Tagged With: 7 Wonders of the Ancient World, Egypt, Giza Plateau, Great Sphinx, Pyramids, Travel

Humorous Halloween Centerpiece for a Festive Birthday Celebration

October 18, 2018 by Susan 6 Comments

Welcome to the 525th Tablescape Thursday! Sandra recently hosted a little luncheon in celebration of a friend's birthday. She set the most fun table with a delightful centerpiece featuring whimsical Halloween witches she found in Tuesday Morning many years back. Sandra said, "We lived in Adams, Tennesse for about 9 years, which is the home of the Bell Witch. Great … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Halloween Holiday Home, Halloween Table Settings, Halloween Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Bell Witch, Halloween, Halloween Dinnerware, Halloween Table Settings, Halloween Tablescapes, Spider Napkin Rings

10 Halloween Crafts for the Home and Table

October 15, 2018 by Susan 15 Comments

Welcome to the 507th Metamorphosis Monday! I'm leaving for Egypt today. I plan to post a good bit while I'm away. Hopefully, I'll have some fast WiFi in the hotels where we'll be staying. I'll also be posting a lot to Instagram while I'm away. Instagram is the easiest and quickest way to share in real time, so be sure to look for updates there each day. If you would like to follow my adventures … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After Metamorphosis Monday, Halloween Crafts, Halloween Holiday Home Tagged With: DIY Halloween, Halloween, Halloween Crafts, Halloween Decor, Halloween Kid's Crafts, Kid's Crafts

What’s Inside My Travel Handbag & “Luxury” Travel-Themed Toothpaste

October 12, 2018 by Susan 54 Comments

Thanks so much to Ginger for telling me about this fun "luxury" travel toothpaste. The toothpaste comes in some pretty exotic-sounding flavors. The description describes them this way: This set contains 1.3oz travel sizes of all three limited edition toothpaste flavors in Marvis’ Wonders of the World collection, inspired by an imaginary and adventurous journey around the world. I purchased one set … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Egypt, Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, Travel Tagged With: Anti-theft Handbag, Luxury Toothpaste, Tartan Bedding, Travel Handbag

A Canadian Thanksgiving Celebration with Harvest Pumpkin China

October 11, 2018 by Susan 19 Comments

Welcome to the 524th Tablescape Thursday! Brenda and Tom are newlyweds, they were just married in August. Together they live at Peaceful Valley Farm in Canada. What a beautiful place! It certainly lives up to its name! Brenda said, "We are retired but we have a hobby farm with two horses, Lady and Foxy. We also have 6 black Angus cows, (Tour of Duty, Rosebud, Daisey, Feiria, Roscoe, and Arlene) over … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Tablescape Thursday, Thanksgiving Holiday Home, Thanksgiving Table Settings, Thanksgiving Tablescapes Tagged With: Canadian Thanksgiving, Harvest Pumpkin China, Harvest Pumpkin Dinnerware, Thanksgiving Holiday Home

5 New Items I’m Packing for Egypt, One I Should Have Purchased Ages Ago!

October 9, 2018 by Susan 54 Comments

It's countdown time--I'll be leaving for Egypt in less than a week. This trip seemed so far off when I shared the details in this previous post: Pyramids, Mummies and Cruising the Nile River. Before every trip abroad, I usually pick up a few new items. I love trying new things, especially if it will enhance some aspect of the trip or prevent a problem. 2-Stage Filtered Water Bottle, … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Egypt, Morocco, Travel Tagged With: Egypt, Filtered Water Bottle, Luggage Cover, Selfie Stick, Travel, TSA Approved Travel Containers

Protect Your Suitcase from Scratches with a Pretty Luggage Cover

October 8, 2018 by Susan 49 Comments

Welcome to the 506th Metamorphosis Monday! How was your weekend? This is a long weekend for some folks since today is Columbus Day. It's also Thanksgiving for our northern friends in Canada. Happy Thanksgiving, Canada! I spent the weekend getting some things done I've been putting off--like spiffing up the screened porch for autumn. I haven't done any decorating on the porch, yet--but I did take time … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After Metamorphosis Monday, Travel Tagged With: Away Luggage, Bag Cover, Luggage Cover, Suitcase Cover, Travel

Tour a Beautiful Historic 1803 Federal Home in Franklin, Tennessee

October 6, 2018 by Susan 30 Comments

Every now and then I come across a beautiful historic home that's so special, I know I have to share it. If you live close to Franklin, Tennessee, you may already be familiar with this historic, 1803 Federal home that is situated beautifully on 18 acres+. It was given the name, Meeting of the Waters because it is located where two rivers (Big Harpeth River and West Harpeth River) join together. Love the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Historic Homes, Home Tours Tagged With: Federal Home, Historic Home, Historic Home for Sale, Historic Home Tour

5 Creative Tablescapes for Halloween and Fall

October 4, 2018 by Susan 13 Comments

Welcome to the 523rd Tablescape Thursday! This week I'm taking you back to a few of my favorite Halloween and Autumn table settings. If you're new to reading here at BNOTP, you'll find all the Halloween tables linked under the category "Tablescapes" at the top of the blog. To access those, click on: Tablescapes/Holiday/Halloween. Or, you'll find them all here: Halloween Tablescapes. Fall Tablescapes … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fall Tablescapes, Halloween Table Settings, Halloween Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Autumn Decorations, Autumn Dinner Party, Entertaining, Fall Decorations, Fall Party, Halloween Decorations, Halloween Dinner Party, Halloween Party, Tablescape Thursday

Fall Wreath Idea, A Porch with a River View & Dreamy Fashions Inspired by Fashion Week

October 3, 2018 by Susan 17 Comments

I have quite a few fun things to share today, starting with this beautiful fall wreath Carol created for her front door this year. Carol said, "I saw your fall wreath and wanted to share with you my fall wreath. I am always finding something new and I add to it every year, so it has morphed into this now." I love this idea! What a great way to update an older wreath. I especially love the monogram … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Porches, Seasonal Decor Tagged With: Fall Door Decor, Fall Wreath, Fashion Week, Fire Pit, River House, Screened Porch

The Away Bigger Carry-on Bag: Lydia and Instagram Made Me Do It!

October 1, 2018 by Susan 48 Comments

Welcome to the 505th Metamorphosis Monday! Over the past three years as I've traveled abroad, this adorable bag has always been my carry-on bag. There are many things I love about it, including its two interior pockets. One is perfect for carrying a laptop and the other, a zipper pocket, is great for smaller items like electrical cords, mouse, Rx, etc... I always get so many comments/compliments on … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After Metamorphosis Monday, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Travel Tagged With: Away Aluminum Bag, Away Luggage, Luggage, Travel

Packing for Travel to Egypt and a Cruise Along the Nile River

September 29, 2018 by Susan 51 Comments

In a few short weeks, I'll be heading off on a new adventure. I'll be leaving for a 16-day trip to Egypt. This will be my third time visiting the continent of Africa--somehow it keeps drawing me back. It's going to be quite hot in Egypt, I'm guessing very much like the summers here in Georgia but with less humidity since it's really a desert environment. Today I'm sharing the wardrobe I plan to pack, … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Africa, Egypt, Travel Tagged With: Cairo, Egypt, Nile River Cruise, Packing for Travel, Travel, Travel to Egypt

Tablescape Thursday: A Halloween Setting by Candlelight

September 27, 2018 by Susan 42 Comments

Welcome to the 522nd Tablescape Thursday! We had storms this afternoon and it got quite dark as I finished setting this table to share for today's Tablescape Thursday. I decided to go with it--embrace the cloudy, moody afternoon and photograph this Halloween only table by candlelight. As it got even darker out, I turned on a few lamps. Love dining by candlelight! It may … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Halloween Table Settings, Halloween Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: David Carter Brown, Halloween China, Halloween Plates, Halloween Table, Halloween table setting, Halloween Tablescape, Pumpkin Chargers, Pumpkin Hollow, Pumpkin Tureens

Vacation in The Bastle, a Farmhouse Reminiscent of Rosehill Cottage in the Movie, The Holiday

September 26, 2018 by Susan 14 Comments

Imagine traveling to the northern part of England and staying in this 16th-century storybook home! This is The Bastle, a farmhouse built during the time Elizabeth I was Queen. Can you imagine?! A nighttime view... This storybook stone cottage reminds me so much of the home in the movie, The Holiday. (Take a tour of that movie house here: Tour the Home in the Movie the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Inspire

Did Those Boxwood Shrubs Bounce Back? Sharing a Few Landscape Updates!

September 24, 2018 by Susan 41 Comments

Welcome to the 504th Metamorphosis Monday! Back in May 2016, I redid the landscaping directly in front of my home. I chose Green Beauty Boxwood shrubs as my foundation plants and this was how they looked on the pallet at the store just prior to having them delivered. Here's how they looked after I planted them over the course of a few days. It was a challenge keeping them watered until I … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Garden, Gardening & Birding Tagged With: Boxwood Shrubs, Green Beauty Boxwood, Green Tower Boxwood, Landscaping Baby Gem Boxwood

From Broken to Better, This Project is Done! Well, at Least for Now.

September 22, 2018 by Susan 36 Comments

I'm considering this little project complete for now. When I last shared this room, one of the little Dept. 56 lit houses I had purchased on eBay had not arrived. There's a story about that--I'll share it toward the end of this post. For the picture below, I had the shutters in the office closed and all the lamps in the office turned off. I lit a couple of candles to help my camera capture the lit … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Office/Craft/Sewing Room Tagged With: Bookshelves Decor, Decorate Bookshelves, Dept. 56 Lit Houses, Home Office, Literary Classics Collection

Welcoming Autumn with a Colorful Table Setting in Shades of Red, Gold and Brown

September 20, 2018 by Susan 56 Comments

Welcome to the 521st Tablescape Thursday! With the official first day of autumn just a couple of days away, I'm sharing a fall-ish table setting for this week's Tablescape Thursday. Still very warm here--reaching the 90's each day (which I love) but I know the cooler temps will be headed this way before too long. I kept the centerpiece simple, using a red lantern I've had for several … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fall Tablescapes, Garden Party Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Autumn, autumn table setting, Entertaining, Fall, fall table setting, Italian Dinnerware, Tablescape Thursday

12 Cleaning Products I Would Never Want To Be Without

September 18, 2018 by Susan 49 Comments

A few days ago I received an email from Jane, a lovely BNOTP reader asking about the furniture polish I use on my furniture. Today I thought I'd do an updated post sharing a lot of the products I use around my home for cleaning, maintenance and such. The ones I'm sharing are all products I truly love and enjoy...dare say, couldn't do without! This is the furniture polish I've been using now for several … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY Repairs and Fixes Tagged With: Cleaning Product, cleaning tools, Home Maintenance, Housework

Cozying Up The Office with Dept. 56 Lit Houses and a Few New Bookcase Additions

September 17, 2018 by Susan 74 Comments

Welcome to the 503rd Metamorphosis Monday! Hope you had a wonderful weekend! For this week's Met Monday, I thought I'd give you a quick update on what I've been up to with the bookcases here in the office. There have been a couple of additions but also quite a few subtractions. Can you tell I've reduced my collection a bit? I took a huge stack (probably a shelf's worth) to Goodwill this … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After Metamorphosis Monday, DIY Decorating, Office/Craft/Sewing Room Tagged With: Bookshelves, Dept. 56, Lit Houses

A New Autumn Wreath for the Front Door

September 14, 2018 by Susan 50 Comments

Summer is still very much with us here in Georgia with temps in the upper 80's and low 90's every day. I love the hot weather so I'm not complaining. Though it's not feeling one bit like fall, I came across a beautiful fall wreath recently that I couldn't pass up. I usually have a hard time finding a wreath I like because often they are just too small. I like a nice big wreath that fills out my … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Halloween Decor, Porches & Decks, Seasonal Decor, Thanksgiving Decor Tagged With: Autumn Decor, Autumn Wreath, Decorate for Autumn, Decorate for Fall, Fall Decor, Fall Wreath, Red Door

French Cottage Becomes a Greek Taverna

September 13, 2018 by Susan 15 Comments

Welcome to the 520th Tablescape Thursday! We're off to France for this week's Tablescape Thursday to visit my friend, Norma. Norma resides in an adorable cottage in the French countryside alongside the Argenton River. Recently, she had friends staying with her for a few days, and one evening she prepared a scrumptious Greek feast. Norma wrote: Hi Susan I thought that you might like to see these … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fall Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday, Winter Tablescapes Tagged With: France, Greek Feast, Pumpkin Chargers, Tablescape Thursday

Almost Scammed As A Seller on eBay & Why I Won’t Use eBay Authenticate

September 11, 2018 by Susan 52 Comments

Do you ever shop on eBay? I tend to shop on eBay in spurts. I may go months and not shop there at all, but occasionally if I'm looking for an item that's no longer being made or sold in stores, I'll search for it on eBay. I'm truly thankful eBay exists because I've purchased a number of things there over the years that I simply could not find anywhere else. Do you sell on eBay? I very rarely ever sell on … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Inspire Tagged With: eBay, eBay Scammers, eBay Scams, Selling on eBay

A Fun Lighting Update for My Home Office

September 8, 2018 by Susan 48 Comments

Welcome to the 502nd Metamorphosis Monday! Happy weekend to you! I hope you're having an awesome one! I know it's not Monday yet, but I have an appointment on Monday so I thought I would go ahead and put this post up now. Before we dive into a mini-project I'm working on in my office, if you're a Talbots credit card holder, Talbots is having a big sale right now sitewide. (I got this yesterday, so … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After Metamorphosis Monday, DIY Decorating, Office/Craft/Sewing Room Tagged With: Shelf Lamp, Shelf Lighting, Small Lamps

A Shark-Themed Table Setting for a Special Boy’s Birthday Party!

September 6, 2018 by Susan 27 Comments

Welcome to the 519th Tablescape Thursday! These embossed chargers I recently shared in a post just arrived a couple of days ago. They are still in their packing boxes in my entry, been so busy I haven't had a chance to unpack them, yet. I was impressed with the shipping/packaging, each charger is individually boxed and well padded. I couldn't resist opening up one to see how they looked. Love them and … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Birthday Tablescapes, Children's Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday

5 Ways To Save Big For Travel Abroad

September 5, 2018 by Susan 33 Comments

I've always wanted to travel and see more of this big, beautiful world, but for many years traveling outside the United States seemed like just a dream, something other folks did but I would never be able to afford. After I retired, Wanderlust really set in. The one place I had always wanted to visit more than any place else was Italy. With more free time on my hands, I started researching … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Africa, Best Travel Deals, Egypt, Germany, Holland & Belgium, Ireland, Italy, Travel

Bracelet Storage Idea & A Wicker Bag Purchase

September 4, 2018 by Susan 21 Comments

Tracking shows these chargers I ordered recently are arriving today...hope they are as beautiful in person as they are in this picture. Would love to set a table with them for this week's Tablescape Thursday if they arrive in time. I'm yearning for another set of blue and white dishes. I only have one set and would love another to mix and match. (Pssst: If you missed it, these chargers are still on sale … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods Tagged With: Hermes Clic H Bracelet Storage, Prada Midollino Bag, Prada Midollino Canapa Tote, Prada Wicker Bag

The Perfect Spot for Leaf Peeping & A Creative Way to Repurpose Vintage Crab Pots

September 3, 2018 by Susan 19 Comments

Welcome to the 501st Metamorphosis Monday! Did you have a great weekend? Hopefully, you have today off and are enjoying a long, 3-day weekend. I usually post during the weekend, but this weekend I gave myself the full weekend off and worked on some things here inside the house...mostly just a lot of organizing and cleaning. I guess that's not exactly taking the weekend off, now that I think about it. … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After Metamorphosis Monday, DIY Decorating, Porches Tagged With: Crab Pots Repurposed, Screened Porch, Screened Porch Decor, Screened Porch Furniture

Fall Dinnerware Shopping & Beautiful Embossed White Chargers On Sale

August 30, 2018 by Susan 23 Comments

Welcome to the 518th Tablescape Thursday! I always have to be dragged kicking and screaming into fall. I know it's not that way for a lot of folks who can't wait for a bit of relief from the heat. When it comes to checking out the new dishware offerings for autumn, no dragging is needed. Ha! Yesterday I stopped into the Pottery Barn and Williams Sonoma near my home to see if they had their fall/autumn … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fall Tablescapes, Halloween Table Settings, Halloween Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday, Thanksgiving Table Settings, Thanksgiving Tablescapes Tagged With: Cat Mugs, Cat Plates, Fall, Fall China, Game Bird Plates, Ghost Mugs, Halloween, Halloween Centerpiece Idea, Mummy Mugs, Pirate Ship Ice Cooler, Turkey Tureen

Earrings for Sensitive Ears & Camouflaging or Hiding a Bracelet While Traveling

August 28, 2018 by Susan 36 Comments

Thank you so, so much for all the lovely comments on yesterday's 500th Metamorphosis Monday post! I can't tell you how much I appreciate all your kind words. You are always, always the best part of this blog and I never forget that! I'm very thankful you are here each and every day and I can't wait to share another 500 Met Mondays with you! I plan to be here creating posts as long as my brain works and my … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods

Celebrating Our 500th Metamorphosis Monday!

August 27, 2018 by Susan 82 Comments

Welcome to the 500th Metamorphosis Monday! We just celebrated 500 Tablescape Thursdays a few weeks ago. This week we've hit our 500th Metamorphosis Monday! I was thinking back this evening about how Met Monday first began. Our Met Monday party began a few weeks after I shared Before and After photos in a post on January 2, 2009 of a change I had made in my dining room. (See that post here: Dining Room … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After Metamorphosis Monday Tagged With: Before and After, DIY, DIY Crafts & Sewing, Metamorphosis Monday, Painting, Renovations, Sign Making, Tablescaping, Woodworking

The Easy Way to Dry or Preserve Limelight Hydrangea Blossoms

August 25, 2018 by Susan 25 Comments

How is your weekend going? I've been working a little outside. I need to be working A LOT outside! There's tons of weeding to be done...and other stuff. One little project I knocked out was cleaning out the interior and exterior of this Lazy Hill Farms birdhouse. I didn't think I'd be posting about it so neglected to take any "Before" pictures, but it was yucky. We've had soooo much rain this spring and … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Garden, Gardening & Birding Tagged With: Drying Hydrangea Blossoms, Hydrangeas, Limelight Hydrangeas, Preserving Hydrangea Blossoms

Aqua Blue Wine Glasses and Soft, Warm Sand…Ahhh, How I Do Love Summer!

August 23, 2018 by Susan 28 Comments

Welcome to the 517th Tablescape Thursday! Recently Cyndi left this lovely comment on my 5 Creative Tables for Summer post: All of your summer tables are beautiful, but my favorite is the “Shades of blue” as it does put one in mind of water and beaches. I like your chargers, but LOVE your sea shell chargers the best! Please do a table with them and the large hurricane lanterns, love those! My shell … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Beachy Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Aqua-blue Table Setting, Beach-Themed Table, DIY Shell Charger Plates, Nautical Table Setting, Shell Chargers, Summer Table

Protecting Vachetta Leather & Giraffe Manor Featured in Harper’s Bazaar

August 22, 2018 by Susan 35 Comments

Before we get into today's post, little reminder that this next Monday (August 27th) is our 500th Metamorphosis Monday party! Wowza! So amazing that 500 weeks have passed since Met Monday got first started, yet I haven't aged a day! ;) har har. I bet you haven't either! :) For next week's Metamorphosis Monday, if you would like, please share a photo (or two) of 5-10 of your most favorite "Before and … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods

A Plain Brick Home Gets The Most Beautiful Transformation! Love!!!

August 20, 2018 by Susan 46 Comments

Welcome to the 499th Metamorphosis Monday! Ever pass by a beautiful home, a home that's solid and well-built but just feels like something is missing? Here in the south we have a lot of clay soil, so brick homes are everywhere. You'll find entire neighborhoods filled with homes made of brick in many different shades and colors. Sometimes the brick will vary greatly in color and add so much interest and … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After Metamorphosis Monday, Deck, Porch, Patio Before & After, Whole House Renovation Before & After Tagged With: Exterior Makeover, Exterior Transformation, Home Exterior Makeover, Paint Transformation

The End-of-Summer Sales are Awesome Right Now

August 18, 2018 by Susan 16 Comments

This past week has been a lot of fun as I've been visiting with my son, daughter-in-love and grandsons. We've been doing a lot of grilling since my son upgraded to a Big Green Egg this summer. Any BGE fans out there? I've been so impressed with the flavor of the food he's been cooking. It has me thinking about getting one if/when I move one day. Amazing all the things you can make on this grill, even … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods Tagged With: Fashion, Summer Clothes, Summer Sale

5 Creative Tables for Summer

August 16, 2018 by Susan 15 Comments

Welcome to the 516th Tablescape Thursday! I can't believe it's already August! Thankfully, it will still be warm here in the south for another month or two. My heart is still in summer, fall will get here soon enough! For this week's Tablescape Thursday, I'm sharing a few of the tables I've set this summer. Click on any title below to view that table setting in more detail. Happy … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: End of Summer, Entertaining, Summer Entertaining, Summer Party, Summer Table Settings, Summer Tablescape

Tour the Museum of Style Icons in Ireland, Part II

August 15, 2018 by Susan 30 Comments

On Monday we began a tour through the Museum of Style Icons, a museum owned by Newbridge Silverware in Newbridge, Co. Kildare. It was a wonderful, unexpected highlight during my trip to Ireland last year. In that previous post, I shared this pretty cocktail dress worn by Audrey Hepburn in the movie, Breakfast at Tiffany's. That dress was displayed near several other dresses worn … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Ireland, Travel Tagged With: Celebrities, Costumes, Fashion, Ireland, Movies, Museum of Style Icons

A Visit to the Newbridge Museum of Style Icons

August 13, 2018 by Susan 33 Comments

Welcome to the 498th Metamorphosis Monday! I've been away the past few days visiting family. As I was thinking about what I might share with you today, I remembered a fascinating stop we made during my trip across Ireland last year. I think it was on the same day we visited Blarney Castle. As we were heading back to our manor home for the night, we stopped for a little shopping excursion inside the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After Metamorphosis Monday, Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Ireland, Travel Tagged With: Celebrities, Famous People, Fashion, Iconic Movies, Movies, Museum of Style Icons, Newbridge Silverware

Limelight Hydrangeas, Butterflies and Birds: A Summer Table Setting On The Porch

August 9, 2018 by Susan 50 Comments

Welcome to the 515th Tablescape Thursday! The Limelight hydrangeas in front of my home are still blooming, so I couldn't resist using them again in a summer table setting here on the screened porch. See that big gap, one hydrangea fell over and I didn't notice it until I was done taking pictures. While I was setting the table, little birds flew in and … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Romantic Tablescapes, Seasonal Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Limelight Hydrangeas, Mikasa Modern Butterfly, Noritake Colorwave, Vintage Flatware

When Smeg and Dolce & Gabbana Conspire, Something Wonderful Happens!

August 7, 2018 by Susan 30 Comments

I always have a running list in my head of things I want to share with you. Today I'm finally sitting down to share them all in one place. They run the gamut in price, some are super affordable while others are pricey but just too good to not share. This morning I purchased a pair of these L.L. Bean Sport Shoes for myself and my daughter-in-love. I think they will be great for the hiking trips we go on … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods Tagged With: Designer Appliances, Dolce & Gabbana, Smeg

It Took a Year to Get It Right, But Finally This Makeover Is Complete

August 6, 2018 by Susan 35 Comments

Welcome to the 497th Metamorphosis Monday! Thanks so much for all your wonderful comments on Saturday's post. It was so heartwarming and encouraging to read your comments and stories! You shared so many of the same thoughts I have and I truly appreciate each and every comment. I was so surprised by how many of you had actually had the opportunity to visit A Classy Flea in person! I know a lot of folks … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY Paint & Stain, Living Room (Downstairs), Living Room Before & After Tagged With: Judges Paneling, Metamorphosis Monday, Minwax Polycrylic Matte Finish, Stain, Staining Wood Paneling

Change Can Be So Hard Sometimes

August 3, 2018 by Susan 113 Comments

When I first moved into my home almost 30 years ago, I struggled to furnish it. As a faithful reader of Traditional Home and Colonial Homes magazines back then, I had fallen in love with classic-traditional furniture styles and antiques. I would regularly visit some of the best furniture stores in the Atlanta area--stores like Matthews Furniture, Beverly Hall, and Furniture Craftsman. I drooled over the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Antiquing & Thrifting, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Inspire Tagged With: A Classy Flea, Antiques, Antiquing & Thrifting

Making My Own Sunshine for This Week’s Tablescape Thursday

August 2, 2018 by Susan 57 Comments

Welcome to the 514th Tablescape Thursday! I think I may be living in England these days...or maybe I'm in Ireland. I've never seen so much rain, and this has been going on for much of the summer. It has been nice not having to worry about watering the plants on the deck, but I've almost forgotten how sunshine looks! So please excuse the moody skies in the background. Today is definitely … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Lemon Tree, Metox Poppytrail Sculptured Daisy, Vintage Dishware, Vintage Glassware

Geesh, I Knew It was Hot, But Never Expected This!

July 31, 2018 by Susan 29 Comments

The eagerly anticipated Louis Sherry chocolate truffles arrived today. A bad feeling crept in as I opened the lid to the decorative tin and saw chocolate smeared on the papers inside the box. Uh, oh. Apparently, the truffles didn't survive the summer heat during the shipping process. For reference, this is how the chocolates are supposed to look. I had also ordered a tin of … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods Tagged With: Louis Sherry, Louis Sherry Chocolate Truffles

A Bit Like Having Your Own Personal Chef

July 30, 2018 by Susan 35 Comments

Welcome to the 496th Metamorphosis Monday! Many years ago I read an article in the local paper about a woman who had worked her whole life in the corporate world. One day, tired of the intense stress under which she worked each day, she gave her notice and quit. She opened up her own business doing something she really loved: cooking! According to the article, she would drive to the home of her … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After Metamorphosis Monday, Recipes Tagged With: ISOFIT, Ready-made Meals

Living the Life of Reilly and A Luxurious Gift Idea

July 28, 2018 by Susan 29 Comments

Recently in a post, I shared some fun ideas for hanging art or small paintings down low where they can be appreciated while sitting nearby. (See that post here: Hang a Little Painting Where It Will Surprise and Delight.) Cindy left this comment on that post. A friend’s cat has his own art gallery at his level. Every visit, I check to see if he has added to his collection. Small pieces that are … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY Decorating, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods Tagged With: Decorating Ideas, Louis Sherry Chocolates

Sea Life Table Setting in Beautiful Colors of Blue and Coral

July 26, 2018 by Susan 19 Comments

Welcome to the 513th Tablescape Thursday! I'm super excited to share a wonderful summer table with a fun, beach-sea life theme for this week's Tablescape Thursday! Sandra recently emailed and shared photos of a table she set for a family dinner. I immediately fell in love with the blue and coral color scheme of this whimsical table setting. Sandra said she found the blue and … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Beachy Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Beach Themed Table Setting, Coral Tablecloth. Coral Napkins, Ocean-Life Table Setting, Pelican Centerpiece, Turtle Napkin Rings

Hang a Little Painting Where It Will Surprise and Delight

July 25, 2018 by Susan 34 Comments

Earlier in the spring I shared this wee painting of one of my tablescapes. (View this little teascape in detail here: St. Patrick's Day Tea.) The painting was a surprise painting done by a lovely artist and reader of BNOTP named, Fifi. After she let me know she had created the painting, I purchased it from her but never got around to having it framed. Life got in the way and I never got … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Kitchen & Breakfast Area, Living Room/Bonus (Upstairs), My Nest Tagged With: Art, Decorating, Dormer Nooks, Hanging Art, Hanging Small Paintings, Small Paintings

Wonder If Goldilocks Ever Shopped for a Handbag Organizer

July 23, 2018 by Susan 24 Comments

Welcome to the 495th Metamorphosis Monday! Back around Christmastime, I purchased this bag when my SA called to let me know they had gotten one in the color I wanted. It took three tries, but I have finally found an organizer that works beautifully with this bag. I really like a little organization in my bags, so I went in pursuit of a handbag insert/organizer as soon as I purchased this … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY Organization and Storage, Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods Tagged With: Evelyne Handbag, Handbag Insert, Handbag Organizer, Hermes, Organizer

A Tie for My Son, Summer Sandals & Starting My Christmas Shopping Now

July 21, 2018 by Susan 46 Comments

Remember that time I was so obsessed with this polka dot shirt, I had to order it twice? I still love that shirt and wear it a lot, so I'm glad I have two despite the fact it tried its best to run on me. lol Pssst: If you've ever had a problem with colors bleeding in the wash, check out this previous post: How Color Catcher Saved My Favorite Shirt. I have a fave shirt for summer this year, … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods Tagged With: Hermes Job Interview Tie, Summer Fashions, Summer Sale, Summer Sandals

Summer Garden Party Table Setting with a Limelight Hydrangea Centerpiece

July 19, 2018 by Susan 57 Comments

Welcome to the 512th Tablescape Thursday! Announcement: If you are currently subscribed to receive BNOTP blog post updates via a Hotmail e-mail address, but they are not getting through to your Inbox, check your Spam folder. If they aren't in the spam folder, try subscribing with a different e-mail. Hotmail is notorious for filtering out emails that contain photos. Just Google and you'll find a lot folks … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Garden Party Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Bee Flatware, Belleek Kylemore Honeypot, Garden Party Tablescapes, Kim Parker Charger Plates, Limelight Hydrangea Centerpiece, Mikasa Sketch Floral Plates

Genius Ideas To Make Travel A Lot Easier

July 16, 2018 by Susan 21 Comments

Welcome to the 494th Metamorphosis Monday! I don't have a typical "Before and After" to share this week, so I thought I'd share some products that could definitely transform the way you travel, making your travels a lot easier. Recently Zenda left this comment below on this post: My 5 Essentials for Traveling Internationally. Susan, I wanted to thank you for recommending the anti-theft travel bag. I … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After Metamorphosis Monday, Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Travel Tagged With: Genius Ideas, Travel, Travel Gear

Summer Dresses: Flowing and Oh, So Feminine!

July 14, 2018 by Susan 20 Comments

When I was packing to take off to Ireland last summer, it dawned on me that I should take along a summer maxi dress. I wanted something pretty and flowing, a dress that would be perfect for a summer evening or dinner in Ireland. I searched in vain that evening but never found anything I really liked. I ended up buying a navy, floral dress that was really a little too big, but I knew I could camouflage it … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods Tagged With: Feminine Dresses, Floral Dresses, Nordstrom Sale, Party Dresses, Red Dresses, Summer Dresses

A Living Room Table: Great for Reading, Working or a Casual Dinner

July 12, 2018 by Susan 12 Comments

Welcome to the 511th Tablescape Thursday! Marie always sets several tables when entertaining for the holidays. One of my favorite tables in her home is the one she usually sets in her living area in case additional seats are needed. This room is nice and large, so it easily accommodates a large table for reading, working or dining. Since this table is also used for other activities … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Independence Day Holiday Home, Independence Day Table Settings, Independence Day Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: 4th of July Table, Blue Table, Casual Dining, Independence Day Table, Living Room Decor, Living Room Table, Patriotic Table, Red, White

Build a Vision Board: Inspiration & Daily Reminder of Your Dreams and Goals

July 11, 2018 by Susan 66 Comments

Thoughts become things, this I do believe. Do you remember when the book/video called "The Secret" was all in the news? Though I couldn't get on board with much of what it espoused, one premise I took to heart was the idea that our day-to-day thoughts do greatly impact almost every facet of our lives. I truly believe, that which you focus on will often come to pass, be it good or bad. Of course, I'm … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY Organization and Storage, Fashion & Beauty, Inspire Tagged With: Goal Setting, Vision Board

A Few Porch Updates & A Garden Seat Makeover

July 9, 2018 by Susan 45 Comments

Welcome to the 493rd Metamorphosis Monday! Did you go out of town for the July 4th week? This past week always seems like a big week for travel. This weekend has been a productive one for me as I've worked on a few things I've been putting off for a while. One chore I had been procrastinating on was giving the wicker seating group a good cleaning. I've had the two chairs and the settee (all made of … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After Metamorphosis Monday, DIY Paint & Stain, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: Cleaning All-Weather Wicker, Cleaning Outdoor Wicker, Garden Seat Makeover, Garden Stool Makeover, Gardening

Evil Eye Bracelets: Whimsical & Great for Stacking

July 6, 2018 by Susan 27 Comments

When you were a kid growing up, did you ever hear someone say, "Don't give me that evil eye!" Often it was said jokingly to make you smile or cheer you up right after you've just been told "No" to something you wanted to do. I remember hearing it a lot growing up in the south, and though I knew well what it meant, I never knew its origin. Wikipedia says: The evil eye is a curse or legend believed to be … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods Tagged With: Bracelets, Evil Eye Bracelets, Jewelry, Whimsical Jewelry

Festive Table Setting for a 4th of July Patriotic Celebration

July 5, 2018 by Susan 17 Comments

Welcome to the 510th Tablescape Thursday! It's always a big celebration at Marie's for the 4th of July! She had several tables set and ready for friends and family when we met up last week. I love these Uncle Sam hats! They make such a fun statement on any table or in any centerpiece or decor. Marie found those in Pier 1 a few years back. A mix of tall, glass candle … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Independence Day Holiday Home, Independence Day Table Settings, Independence Day Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: 4th of July Decor, 4th of July Table Settings, 4th of July Tablescape, Holiday Dishware, Independence Day Decorations, Patriotic Table Setting, Patriotic Wine Glasses

Tour this Beautiful Victorian Home Decorated for the 4th of July

July 2, 2018 by Susan 44 Comments

Welcome to the 492nd Metamorphosis Monday! Happy Monday! It's the start of a brand new week, looking forward to sharing it with you! On Saturday I shared a few photos of how Marie's beautiful Victorian home is decorated in celebration of this year's Independence Day. Let's go in and see how she decorated inside! The family room was very festive! I bet the mantle is so … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After Metamorphosis Monday, Independence Day Decor, Independence Day Holiday Home Tagged With: 4th Of July, Decorations, Home Tour, Independence Day Tablescapes, Tablescapes Holiday Tablescapes, Victorian Home

Decorate a Porch for the 4th of July!

June 30, 2018 by Susan 27 Comments

Happy Weekend! Hope you are having a wonderful one! Recently, my friend, Marie, and I got together for a lunch date. Marie has her home beautifully decorated for the Independence Day. Pictures just never do Marie's home justice, everything is so much prettier and grander in person. I loved the red, white and blue bunting running down the entire length of the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Independence Day Decor, Independence Day Holiday Home Tagged With: 4th of July Decorations, DG Porches, Independence Day Decorations, Independence Day Tablescapes, New Old House, Porch Decorations, Victorian Home

A Beach-Themed Table Setting for the 4th of July: Happy Independence Day!

June 28, 2018 by Susan 44 Comments

Welcome to the 509th Tablescape Thursday! It's officially summer and the 4th of July celebrations are almost upon us! We've been getting some heavy storms every afternoon so please excuse the "moody" background. It was only around 4:00 when I took these photos but it almost looks like it's getting dark out. Whenever I use a tall centerpiece I always get questions, so … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Beachy Tablescapes, Independence Day Table Settings, Independence Day Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: 4th of July Table Settings, 4th of July Tablescape, David Carter Brown Salad Plates, Driftwood Charger Plates, Flag Dinner Plates, Independence Day Table, Patriotic Table Setting, Patriotic Tablescape, Star Napkins

Update on Necklace Spacer & Protect Your Bracelet While Cleaning or Gardening

June 27, 2018 by Susan 16 Comments

Update on the Necklace Spacer Several folks had asked that I update them on how the necklace spacer worked. Mine arrived a couple of days ago and I immediately took off both my necklaces, attached them and put it to work. The result? It worked great! My necklaces stayed tangle-free all day. I'm very pleased! Tip: If you change clothes while wearing your necklaces/necklace spacer, check the position of … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods

Wear Multiple Necklaces Without Chains Tangling & A Clever Way to Protect Rings

June 25, 2018 by Susan 25 Comments

Welcome to the 491st Metamorphosis Monday! When I was vacationing in Maui last week, I was minding my own business walking down Front Street in the lovely town of Lahaina when a beautiful sun in a nearby shop window dazzled me with its shimmering beauty. It literally stopped me dead in my tracks. I've always loved sun motifs and this beautiful sun glimmered and sparkled in the Hawaiian sunlight. It was … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods Tagged With: Jewelry Care, Jewelry Tips, Roberto Coin

How I Avoided Air-Sickness During My Helicopter Tour, + 4 Products I Use & Love

June 23, 2018 by Susan 73 Comments

Recently on THIS post, Linda left a comment asking about a product I had mentioned a few years ago--my battery storage/organizer. I purchased this organizer below after reading a news article about a guy who had been storing "dead" batteries in a bag in his garage until he could take them for recycling. Apparently, some of the batteries were not completely dead, so when the tips touched they sparked a fire … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Travel, United States

Dining at Mama’s Fish House in Maui, Hawaii

June 21, 2018 by Susan 87 Comments

Welcome to the 508th Tablescape Thursday! When I announced I was visiting Maui, one restaurant that was recommended to me over and over again was Mama's Fish House. Even after I got to Hawaii and started asking the locals for recommendations, Mama's Fish House was always one of the first places mentioned. During the helicopter tour I took over Maui last week, our pilot, Mike, who was continually … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Beachy Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday, Travel, United States Tagged With: Hawaii, Mama's Fish House, Maui, Tablescape Thursday, Travel

The Lahaina Banyan Tree, Truly The Most Amazing Tree I’ve Ever Seen

June 20, 2018 by Susan 24 Comments

When I mentioned in a post that I was heading off to Maui, Hawaii for a week, I received some wonderful suggestions of places to visit and things to see and do while there. A couple of folks mentioned a special tree in the town of Lahaina called a Banyan tree. I had never heard of a Banyan tree before, but made a mental note to look for it if I ended up in the Lahaina area. Initially, I hadn't planned … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Gardening & Birding, In the Garden, Travel, United States Tagged With: Banyan Trees, Hawaii, Lahaina, Lahaina Banyan Tree, Maui, Rare Trees

Back Home At Last & A Few Favorites from Hawaii

June 18, 2018 by Susan 36 Comments

Welcome to the 490th Metamorphosis Monday! Well, this is a record for the latest Met Monday has ever posted. I've been flying all night and most of the day but I'm finally back home from Maui. The flights were great and uneventful, just very long. It's a long way from Georgia to Hawaii and back, especially when you go there via Seattle. It's a long way even when you don't go via Seattle. lol I don't … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Travel, United States

Dress Shopping in Hawaii

June 17, 2018 by Susan 19 Comments

Reminder: Today is the last day to get 40% off everything at Talbots. I purchased several shorts and pants yesterday, so it's a great time to check out their sale. You'll find the sale here: 40% off Sale. Don't forget to use the code Friends40 to get the discount. I almost never shop for clothes while I'm on vacation but this trip was the exception. I visited Whaler's Village and went a wee bit crazy! … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Travel, United States

I Almost Missed Their Best Summer Sale! These are My 12 Favorites!

June 16, 2018 by Susan 11 Comments

Right before I left for Hawaii, I stopped by the Talbots near my home to pick up another pair of their adorable, scalloped-edge short. If you don't have a pair of these, I very much recommend them. They are so much more flattering on the leg than a straight-edge hemmed short. I don't know why that scallop makes such a difference, but it does! I already have two pairs in white, available here: … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods Tagged With: Summer Clothing Sale, Talbots

A Hawaiian Luau on the Island of Maui

June 14, 2018 by Susan 47 Comments

Welcome to the 507th Tablescape Thursday! Last night I attended the Luau they host every Wednesday night at the resort where I'm staying in Maui. Every chair you see below was filled once the party got underway. As we arrived we were greeted with a Mai Tai drink. Have you ever had a Mai Tai before? I had not. This one was very low on alcohol and super sweet. Not sure if they are always … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Travel, United States Tagged With: Hawaii, Luau, Maui

Would You Jump Off This Rock Into the Pacific Ocean?

June 13, 2018 by Susan 35 Comments

My body is still on Atlanta time. I normally wake up around 3 AM each day, roll back over and try to go back to sleep, only to wake up again in an hour or two. My body just won't get the message that it's in the Hawaiian Time Zone now. lol Early this morning I looked out the window of my bedroom and noticed they were busy putting up tables on the lawn for tonight's Luau. Here's how it … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Travel, United States Tagged With: Hawaii, Maui, Road to Hana, Travel

Aloha!

June 11, 2018 by Susan 46 Comments

Welcome to the 489 Metamorphosis Monday! I made it! This was the view from my side of the plane as we were flying into Maui. You can see the shadow of the plane which I thought was kinda cool. This evening I was reading more about Maui online. I find it fascinating how this island was formed! Wikipedia states: Maui's diverse landscapes are the result of a unique combination of geology, topography, … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After Metamorphosis Monday, Travel, United States

I’m Pretty Sure This is All Your Fault! ;)

June 9, 2018 by Susan 30 Comments

Aloha! This is the theme I just loaded onto my phone, thanks for giving me the little push I needed! Thanks so much for all the wonderful tips and ideas you left in the comments of my last post! Sooo appreciated! I can't wait to share Maui with you for Metamorphosis Monday! If you're not already, be sure to follow on Instagram where I'll be posting photos regularly during this trip. You'll find the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Inspire

Would you go to Maui, Hawaii Alone?

June 8, 2018 by Susan 159 Comments

A friend called me last week to say he had a week in Maui planned, but couldn't go. He offered it to me at no charge. So all I'd be paying for is the flight, a rental car once there, and of course the usual expenses like meals, etc... I called two different friends to see if either would like to go. The room will sleep two since it also has a sofa sleeper. Neither could go due to prior commitments they … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Travel

Shades of Blue, Reminiscent of the Seas Surrounding Beautiful Procida, Italy

June 7, 2018 by Susan 39 Comments

Welcome to the 506th Tablescape Thursday! I had thought about putting this week's table out on the newly cleaned deck, but it was a bit too hot outside for that. It went from a cool morning where I had all the doors to the porch thrown wide open, to a toasty 86 degrees out on the porch later in the day. I love it though, will take this any day over cold weather! Once it … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Beachy Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Aqua Table Setting, Beach Table Setting, Beach Tablescape, Beach-Themed Table, Driftwood Chargers, Sailboat Plates, Shell Candle Holder, Shell Lantern, Shell Napkin Rings, Warren Kimble Coastal Breeze

Where I Find the Best Travel Deals & Some Amazing Deals Available Right Now

June 6, 2018 by Susan 29 Comments

Recently I shared a post where I highlighted a few items I always take when I travel abroad. If you missed that post, you'll find it here: 5 Essentials for Traveling Internationally. I love the comments you leave on posts--always learn new things from you with each and every post. The interactions and discussions in the comments are wonderful, appreciate those so much. On that particular post linked … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Africa, Best Travel Deals, Egypt, Germany, Holland & Belgium, Ireland, Italy, Mexico, Travel, United States Tagged With: Discount Travel, Solo Travel, Travel, Travel Deals, Wanderlust

Deck Updates, Great Deck Cleaner and a Little Garden Whimsy

June 4, 2018 by Susan 57 Comments

Welcome to the 488th Metamorphosis Monday! Last week I shared some deck updates I was working on. In between all the big storms we've been having this past week, I've been working on spiffing up the deck for summer. Before In this photo from last week, you can see the decking was super dirty from all the yucky stuff that had fallen from the giant tree whose trunk you can see there at the end of the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After Metamorphosis Monday, Garden, My Nest, Porches & Decks Tagged With: Bottle Tree, Deck Cleaner, Garden Whimsy

My Favorites for Summer & How I’m Keeping Drinks Cold on Hot Days

June 2, 2018 by Susan 29 Comments

How do you like my fancy shoes? lol This is the footwear I've been sporting today...I promise I'll have an explanation for this on Monday for Metamorphosis Monday. :) When I haven't been running around with grocery bags on my feet, I've been shopping for summer clothes. Talbots has an awesome sale going on right now. I purchased a pair of these shorts last summer and love them! They are … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods