Create Wonderful Outdoor Spaces for Dining in the Garden

June 13, 2019 by 10 Comments

Welcome to the 560th Tablescape Thursday! A few days ago I took you into a wonderful garden that was part of the Secret Gardens of Avondale tour a friend and I enjoyed a few weekends ago. There was one particular garden that really stood out for me. In addition to having a wonderful screened-in summer house...   ...and lots of little outdoor seating areas perfect for … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Gardening & Birding, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: , , , , , ,

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My Hermes Perfume Atomizer Collection & the Perfumes They Hold

June 11, 2019 by 29 Comments

I love perfume and wear it almost every day. It's amazing how a little spritz of your favorite scent can completely change your mood. If you're allergic to perfume or don't enjoy wearing it, you'll probably want to skip this post. I know some folks can't or don't wear perfume, but if you do love it and wear it, please continue reading and be sure to leave me a comment sharing your favorite scent. I love … [Read more...]

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

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A Secret Garden, Lots of Whimsy and Beautiful Art: This Garden Tour Had it All!

June 10, 2019 by 16 Comments

Welcome to the 541st Metamorphosis Monday! No big Before and Afters happening around here so I'm taking you on a little garden tour for this week's Met Monday. Actually, now that I think about it, there are a couple of really cute Before/Afters in the garden! A few days ago, a friend and I enjoyed touring five beautiful gardens as part of The Secrets Gardens of Avondale spring garden … [Read more...]

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May Favorites Including a Fun, Addictive Game the Whole Family Will Love!

June 8, 2019 by 22 Comments

I've been weeding the gardens (still have so much more to do!) and this trash bag holder has been invaluable! It's almost like having a second person helping you, holding the bag open while you toss stuff in. I've been impressed with how well it works, even when I'm tossing in heavier stuff the bag has never comes loose. I use it so much, I leave it out full time in my garage for easy access. I think … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Monthly Favorites

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An Accidental Mother’s Day Table Setting

June 6, 2019 by 41 Comments

Welcome to the 559th Tablescape Thursday! I'm not exactly sure how I did this, but somehow I accidentally created a Mother's Day table setting for this week's Tablescape Thursday. lol It was super cloudy yesterday so I decided early on in the day I'd set a table inside in the breakfast room instead of on the porch. I thought I'd create a blue and white candlelit setting with the new lantern I just … [Read more...]

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Celebrating Doris Day: 3 Movie House Tours and 2 Fashion Posts

June 4, 2019 by 19 Comments

Ever since I heard about Doris Day's passing on May 13th, I've been wanting to share a post linking back to some of the movies of her's that I've shared here on the blog. I've always enjoyed her movies, especially the light-hearted, romantic comedies. From what I've read in various articles online, Doris was in very good health for someone her age (she was 97) but apparently, she came down with pneumonia … [Read more...]

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Life in a Summer House, Step Inside a Cozy, Screened-in Gazebo

June 3, 2019 by 38 Comments

Welcome to the 540th Metamorphosis Monday! This weekend was a busy one! I tend to be a home-body and will often spend my weekends at home unless a friend calls to lure me out. On Saturday, a friend picked up tickets to The Secrets Gardens of Avondale and off we went on a wonderful garden tour. That was followed by seeing Henry VIII at the Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse on Sunday with another group of … [Read more...]

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Obsessed with Beach-Nautical Themed Tables & Flatware

May 30, 2019 by 55 Comments

Welcome to the 558th Tablescape Thursday! Last week when I was setting a table for our Tablescape Thursday party, I realized just how much I love creating beach/nautical themed table settings. They are definitely a favorite of mine for summer dining. I also realized that over the years I've collected a fair amount of beachy flatware, starting with this ocean blue flatware purchased back in 2008 just … [Read more...]

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Finally! All My Cleaning Favorites Together in One Post!

May 28, 2019 by 32 Comments

Over the last couple of weeks, I've gotten several emails from BNOTP readers asking about a particular cleaning product I've shared in the past in a previous post. In today's post, I'm pulling them all together in one place, so this will be a great post to bookmark for future reference. These are my absolute favorites, the ones I use every day and always meet my high expectations. Hope you find this post … [Read more...]

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I Have Love Handles! Plus, a Little Jungle Fever!

May 27, 2019 by 28 Comments

Welcome to the 539th Metamorphosis Monday! How has your Memorial Day weekend been going? Hope it has been a relaxing one spent with family and friends. A while back I shared a little problem I was trying to solve. Last summer when I carried this handbag for the first time, I worried about the canvas fabric handles becoming dirty. I tried covering the handles with a Hermes twilly, a popular method I've … [Read more...]

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

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A Memorial Day Table Setting with a Beach-Nautical Theme

May 23, 2019 by 34 Comments

Welcome to the 557th Tablescape Thursday! With Memorial Day weekend almost here, it's time for a patriotic table to honor those who have so valiantly served in our armed forces. As I did last year with a 4th of July table, I decided to give this table a beach/nautical vibe.   Do you have any special plans for this holiday weekend? Are you heading to the beach, planning a Memorial Day … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Beachy Tablescapes, Independence Day Decor, Independence Day Table Settings, Independence Day Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: , , , , ,

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My Favorite Way to Sleep On a Hot Summer Night

May 21, 2019 by 30 Comments

During the wintertime, I love sleeping in flannel pajamas. I'm super cold-natured and can't stand being cold. But come summertime, I'm all about the sleep shirt. A couple of summers ago I discovered sleep shirts and found a style I really loved. The ones I like best are the ones that really look like an oversized shirt. I've never been a fan of nylon/polyester nightwear because I love how cotton feels … [Read more...]

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

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Testing Out a New Appetizer: Martha Stewart’s “Devils on Horseback”

May 20, 2019 by 40 Comments

Welcome to the 538th Metamorphosis Monday! Update: Please note the two updates I've added to the bottom of this post. I made a slight change/addition to this recipe and it was big, big hit at the party, so be sure and note the updates at the end of this post.   I'll be attending a party later this week and will be bringing a dish to share. They'll be around 20 in attendance for this gathering. … [Read more...]

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Why I’m No Longer Posting on Facebook (at least for now)

May 18, 2019 by 116 Comments

Update: I've had a few readers email me indicating they thought I was saying in this post that I would no longer be creating posts here on at the blog. Don't worry, I have no intentions of stopping blogging, you'll continue to find new posts here several days a week. I just won't be stopping by Facebook to link my blog posts there. Please read on for the reason why I'm making this change. Just a quick … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Inspire

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Memorial Day Entertaining and Table Setting Ideas

May 16, 2019 by 34 Comments

Welcome to the 556th Tablescape Thursday! I'm getting so excited for summer! I stopped by Pottery Barn yesterday and there's nothing like seeing all the new summer dishware to get you fired up to create some fun, summertime tables! I haven't visited the big PB in Atlanta in ages, I think it's time for a road trip! This beautiful table dressed in blue caught my eye in the window. Gorgeous colors! I … [Read more...]

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Dressing Room Update is Complete and a Dharuma Hydrangea Update

May 14, 2019 by 23 Comments

Before I share my recent dressing room update, I thought I'd share a small garden update. Back in the summer of 2014, I planted a Dharuma Hydrangea behind my mailbox. I was told that they do well in full sun and are fairly low-growing. I didn't want a big shrub in this spot since space was limited. Do you see the little Dharuma there just behind the mailbox?   Here's a photo of it a few weeks … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Bedroom (Master), DIY, DIY Repairs and Fixes Tagged With: , , ,

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How to Keep Handbag Handles Clean & Protected from Dirt, Stains and Lotion

May 13, 2019 by 16 Comments

Welcome to the 537th Metamorphosis Monday! A while back I shared a wicker bag I had purchased a year or two ago. I carried this bag quite a bit last summer and really enjoyed it, but I had one concern that I couldn't resolve.   The handles of the bag are a heavy-duty, stiff, canvas type fabric. They feel nice and sturdy but since they are fabric, I've been worried they would eventually … [Read more...]

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New Tops for Summer: What I Purchased at the Sale

May 12, 2019 by 15 Comments

If you have children, either the two-legged or four-legged kind, I hope you are having a wonderful Mother's Day! Mine has been very quiet. I'll be seeing my son in a few weeks so I'm really looking forward to that. Yesterday I stopped into Talbots to return a dress I had ordered online that didn't work out for me. While there, I decided to shop their "top" sale and I ended up purchasing three tops during … [Read more...]

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Syracuse Orchard & Magnolia Centerpiece for a Spring Table Setting

May 9, 2019 by 62 Comments

Welcome to the 555th Tablescape Thursday! How is your week going so far? I hope you are seeing some glorious springtime weather. It has been beautiful here!   I took these photos late in the day. The trees have all leafed out completely now so the porch has become very shady throughout the day. Recently, I gave all the bottles on the bottle tree a good washing. Do they look clean and … [Read more...]

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The Cottage Home of My Dreams

May 8, 2019 by 23 Comments

Whenever I wish to escape this world and live in an enchanted forest, I tour one of the beautiful Carmel cottages I find for sale online. I wish more builders would build these adorable cottages today for those of us who are getting to the age where we would like to size down. Ready for a bit of enchantment? I'm pretty sure we could run into one of the seven dwarfs during this tour. … [Read more...]

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A Jaw-dropping Exterior Transformation: You Won’t Believe This Before & After!

May 6, 2019 by 45 Comments

Welcome to the 536th Metamorphosis Monday! A couple of months ago I was scrolling through Instagram and I came across a spectacular renovation. It was one of the most dramatic "Before and Afters" I can recall and I loved it! This beautiful home is located in Valdosta, Georgia which is very near the border where Georgia meets Florida. Here's how the home looked prior to its renovation by Wilson Design … [Read more...]

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April Favorites, Gift Ideas for Mother’s Day and Some New Purchases

May 4, 2019 by 25 Comments

Get ready to have your heart melted just a little. lol Okay, maybe it's just my heart that melted over a few of the lovelies I'm sharing in today's post. I started out with plans to share gift ideas for Mother's Day, but I couldn't resist mixing in a few of the favorites I used and enjoyed during the month of April. Many of those would make great gifts, too! I have been drooling recently over the Laduree … [Read more...]

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

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7 Easy Centerpiece Ideas for a Mother’s Day or Spring Table Setting

May 2, 2019 by 21 Comments

Welcome to the 554th Tablescape Thursday! With Mother's Day just 10 days away, I was thinking today about centerpieces that would be affordable and easy to create for a pretty Mother's Day table. All of the tables I'm sharing, except for one which is more of a DIY project, would be easy to create with items you probably already have around your home. Click the title of any table below to view more of … [Read more...]

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No More Groceries Rolling Around in Back!

April 30, 2019 by 24 Comments

Have you ever had that, "Oh great, not again!" feeling driving home from the grocery store? As you turn a corner, you hear all the grocery bags in back turning over. That's normally followed by the sounds of can goods and jars rolling around crashing into each other. You get home and find the bread squished and the bananas in the corner buried underneath a can of peas. Ugh. To solve this issue, this … [Read more...]

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A Brilliant Invention & Correcting a Regrettable Decision

April 29, 2019 by 26 Comments

Welcome to the 535th Metamorphosis Monday! Back around 2008-2010, I used to sit and create blog posts in the evenings after work at the little vanity desk located on the left side of this dressing room off the master bedroom. During that time I started having shooting pains down both arms, starting at my neck. That's when I realized the vanity was a few inches too short to work as a desk and made the … [Read more...]

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Shopping the Spring & Summer Sales Including a Handbag I’ve Wanted Forever

April 27, 2019 by 10 Comments

The days are longer and the temps are warmer, spring is really here now! This gorgeous spring weather has me in the mood for some new summer clothes. As I've been checking out all my favorite shops online this weekend, I've been taking note of some of the best sales, including a bag I've been wanting for ages. There are too many awesome to share them all but I've linked to several of them below. For … [Read more...]

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Porch Dining: A Springtime Celebration

April 25, 2019 by 51 Comments

Welcome to the 553rd Tablescape Thursday! The weather has been so warm and beautiful the last few days, I really, really wanted to set this week's table out on the porch. But just look at this! This was the state of the porch when I stepped outside today. Everything was covered in thick pollen and months and months of dirt and grime.   I was torn--should I just close my eyes to the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Romantic Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: , ,

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A Tip From the Inventor: Car Handbag Holder Used with a Center-Open Console

April 24, 2019 by 29 Comments

About a month ago I shared an awesome product that solved an ongoing problem I've been dealing with forever: trying to keep my handbag out of the sun when I'm out running errands or on trips AND trying to keep it out of the floor whenever I have to stop suddenly.   This awesome car handbag holder (purchased HERE) has been working beautifully despite the fact it's really designed to work in a … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY Organization and Storage, DIY Repairs and Fixes, Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods

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The Away Bigger Carry-On Bag: What Actually Fits Inside?

April 22, 2019 by 37 Comments

Welcome to the 534th Metamorphosis Monday! I'm back today as promised to share what fits inside this Away "Bigger Carry-on" bag that I purchased recently.   Here's how the Away bag looks when you open it up. The left side contains a zippered mesh pocket which is where I carried my laptop to Egypt and back when I purchased the aluminum version of the Away bag. You may recall, I returned … [Read more...]

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An Away Bigger Carry-on Unboxing: What Color Did I Choose?

April 20, 2019 by 17 Comments

As mentioned in a previous post, I decided after much deliberation to go with another Away bag as my carry-on bag for future trips, only this time I went with the non-aluminum version since it's lighter and not prone to dings and dents. It arrived this past week and I couldn't wait to unbox it!   Here's what I found inside. The Away bag comes in a really nice storage bag that will come in … [Read more...]

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Dining in Mr. McGregor’s Garden: A Spring Table Setting with Peter Rabbit

April 18, 2019 by 51 Comments

Welcome to 552nd Tablescape Thursday! I would love to have placed this table out on the screened porch, but that would have required wading through a few feet of Georgia pollen just to reach the table. It's that time of year when I normally break down and give the porch a thorough cleaning, but I'm trying hard to resist since I know it will be covered right back up with pollen again in just a few days. I … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Easter Table Settings, Easter Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: , , , , ,

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A Pretty Organizer for Storing My Greeting Cards

April 15, 2019 by 51 Comments

Welcome to the 533rd Metamorphosis Monday! In this wide-angle view of my office, you can see a wrapping paper station I have hanging on the wall to the left. I added the gift wrapping organizer many years ago around the time I was putting this office space together.   I don't think this gift wrapping organizer is still available. They brought it back again a year or two after I purchased … [Read more...]

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March Favorites & a Genius Life Hack When You’ve Forgotten Your Readers

April 13, 2019 by 41 Comments

I'm late as usual in sharing my favorites for this past month. Spending a week out of town with family and working on taxes (ugh) has me a bit behind. My most favorite item for the month of March has to be this car handbag holder that I shared a few weeks back. It works exactly as I had hoped it would keeping my bag out of the sun and from flying off the seat into the floorboard if I have to brake … [Read more...]

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Reminiscing: 5 Spring-Summer Table Settings

April 11, 2019 by 23 Comments

Welcome to the 551st Tablescape Thursday! Reminiscing: 5 Spring-Summer Table Settings Sometimes it's fun to reminisce and look back at some of the spring and summer table settings I've created over the years. Today I'm sharing a few that I really loved putting together and I hope you'll enjoy reminiscing along with me for this week's Tablescape Thursday. If you wish to see any table in more detail, … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Tablescape Thursday

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So Many Signs of Spring

April 10, 2019 by 26 Comments

I just returned late yesterday from a week of visiting with family in Ohio. It was a gorgeous day as the plane took off from the Dayton airport. The pilot banked hard to the left and I found myself staring up at the gorgeous blue sky filled with fluffy white clouds.   I'm always amazed by how different the area surrounding the Dayton airport looks as compared to the Atlanta … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Inspire

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Like a Beautiful Phoenix Rising From the Ashes

April 8, 2019 by 44 Comments

Welcome to the 532nd Metamorphosis Monday! Several years ago I created a blog post about this beautiful coastal home that was once located on North Carolina’s Inner Banks (River Dunes) in North Carolina. The home was designed by Historical Concepts, an Atlanta Architecture and Design firm, to commemorate the 10th anniversary of Coastal Living magazine.   Historical Concepts designed the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Beach & Lake Homes, Before & After

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Beautiful Table Setting with Vintage Hutschenreuther China & A Love Story

April 4, 2019 by 29 Comments

Welcome to the 550th Tablescape Thursday! Warren and Kathie love to entertain. Recently Warren shared photos of a beautiful spring table he put together for friends. Warren said, "I set the table for our friends who are sharing  75th birthdays. Most of the glassware and china are family heirlooms made by Hutschenreuther, Huntington Glass, Fostoria Glass and Heisey Glass."   "I found the … [Read more...]

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Shopping the Big Tabletop Sales & the Cutest Peter Rabbit Plates for Spring and Easter!

April 3, 2019 by 17 Comments

I stopped into both Pottery Barn and Williams Sonoma today and picked up some really cute things for spring. Both shops have some great sales going on right now. Pottery Barn has all of their tabletop items on sale, 25% off and their Easter goodies are on sale up to 40% off. I scored some adorable napkins for 40% off. You'll find the sale here: Tabletop Sale. I had to check out this pretty blue and white … [Read more...]

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A Pop of Color for the Office & Answering Your Questions About the Bucket-List Travel Map

April 1, 2019 by 37 Comments

Welcome to the 531st Metamorphosis Monday! Recently when I shared this adorable bow hat I had just ordered...   ...I received a few comments/emails about the travel map I have hanging just below the hats. Today I'm answering your questions about this map, how it works and an updated view.   I snapped this picture early this morning so the light is still really soft here in … [Read more...]

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What I’m Eyeing for Spring & a 40% Off Spring Sale

March 31, 2019 by 10 Comments

Happy Weekend to you! I've been working in the yard most of the weekend, spreading the 25 bales of pine straw I had delivered this past week. Ugh. It's good exercise but Wow, does it get your allergies going! Well, that and the pollen. Are you suffering with spring allergies right now, too? Shopping for Spring Clothes If you are in spring clothes-shopping mode like I am, Talbots is having a big sale … [Read more...]

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

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Welcome Spring!

March 28, 2019 by 35 Comments

Welcome to the 549th Tablescape Thursday! At 61 degrees, it was almost warm enough to set a table out on the porch today. At least it was warm enough to have the door open for a while. It's pollen time here in Georgia, which reminds me, I should probably bring in the cushions from the porch until it passes. Pssst: We're using the old linking system for today's party. InLinkz is working hard right now … [Read more...]

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A Silver Jewelry Keeper Update & How to Find That Elusive, Much Sought-After Item

March 27, 2019 by 18 Comments

A while back I shared a new idea I had just discovered for storing silver jewelry. I needed a better method for storing mine because keeping it stored away in little tarnish-free bags also kept it out-of-sight and out-of-mind. As a result, I never wore it. This was the storage system/piece I purchased and today I thought I'd share exactly how I've decided to use it and something awesome I just recently … [Read more...]

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A Lamp for the Recently Added Console and a Spring Porch Update

March 25, 2019 by 38 Comments

Welcome to the 530th Metamorphosis Monday! Spring has really come to Georgia. The Bradford Pear trees are in full bloom and the daffodils are beginning to wane, having bloomed for weeks now. Spring flowers and warmer temps have a way of motivating us to get going on some of those repairs and projects we've been putting off. A few months ago I shared how mice or rats had decided to create little doors … [Read more...]

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This $16.99 Product Changed My Life! Seriously!

March 23, 2019 by 71 Comments

I am such a happy camper right now! For years I've had an ongoing issue for which I could never find a solution. It's been so annoying, I was seriously thinking I was going to have to invent a product to fix the problem myself. I even talked about it with a sales associate a few months ago, describing a product I was thinking about creating because I'm so tired of dealing with this issue! What am I … [Read more...]

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A St. Patrick’s Day Dinner with Friends

March 21, 2019 by 28 Comments

Welcome to the 546th Tablescape Thursday! Recently I received an email from Agnes with photos of a beautiful table she had set for St. Patrick's Day. Agnes wrote, "We love to have friends over....my New Year’s resolution (again) was to do something each month (I usually only get to February)."   "St Patrick’s was a good choice (I had the green cabbage leaf plates and bowls). We invited … [Read more...]

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The Cult Gaia Bamboo Arc Bag vs A Similar, More Affordable Bamboo Arc Bag

March 19, 2019 by 34 Comments

A year or so ago I was watching one of the Fashion YouTubers I follow and she shared a fascinating bag, the Cult Gaia Arc Bamboo bag. I love wicker bags and find I'm always drawn to bags with a unique design or style. So I found the idea of a bamboo bag in an arc design really interesting, but not quite enough to actually buy it since the cost of the bag was around $140+. The Cult Gaia bag wasn't a bag I … [Read more...]

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

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How to Pack a Hat in Your Suitcase for Travel

March 18, 2019 by 28 Comments

Welcome to the 529th Metamorphosis Monday! Back in 2015 when I first started traveling, my very first trip was for a safari in Kenya. In reading about what one should pack for a safari, a hat was always right at the top of the list of recommendations, particularly a Tilley hat. I found one on Amazon that I really liked. The ribbon around the crown of the hat made it feel more feminine than the other … [Read more...]

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My 5 Essentials for a Casual Summer Wardrobe

March 16, 2019 by 38 Comments

Spring officially starts next Wednesday, can you believe it?! It's been feeling like springtime here in Georgia now for a couple of weeks. This warmer weather has me so excited to do a bit a spring shopping to update my summer wardrobe. In today's post, I thought I'd share some of my favorites for summer, the 5 items that are pretty much my essentials for summer. I would love to hear your essentials, as … [Read more...]

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

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Welcoming Spring with a Floral Table Setting Perfect for Easter or a Garden Party

March 14, 2019 by 46 Comments

Welcome to 545th Tablescape Thursday! It was so beautiful out today with temps reaching into the high 60's, I was super tempted to set a table outside on the porch. In the end, I stayed here in the breakfast room for this week. But it won't be long before we're out on the porch for Tablecape Thursday.   I bought two Shamrock plants this week with full intentions to set a St. Patrick's Day … [Read more...]

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A Springtime Haul & Everything Was On Sale!

March 13, 2019 by 14 Comments

It reached the 70's here yesterday and my daffodils have been in full bloom for the last two weeks. With all this beautiful springtime weather, I couldn't resist heading out for a little spring dish shopping. I stopped by one of my favorite places, Pier 1, and was so happy to see they are having a big spring sale. I found so many cute things I couldn't leave behind!   You may remember … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Easter Table Settings, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Spring & Summer Tablescapes

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Like It Should Have Always Been There

March 11, 2019 by 40 Comments

Welcome to the 528th Metamorphosis Monday! For last week's Met Monday I shared a console table I had ordered for storing the items I often need when taking a cycling class on my Peloton bike.   You may remember when the box arrived, there was a big gash on one side. It was the box you see below on the right. When I opened it, I found one of the shelves was badly dented. I started to return … [Read more...]

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February Favorites, Including a Long-Awaited Item That’s Finally Back

March 8, 2019 by 24 Comments

Happy Weekend! I'm a little late, but today I'm sharing all my favorites from the month of February. If you missed my favorites post for January, you'll find it here: January Favorites. I have to kick off February favorites with an item I've been using and loving now for a few years, this porcupine boar and nylon brush by Spornette. I shared this brush in a post about a year ago, but unfortunately, the … [Read more...]

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The Midas Touch: Tablescaping in All Gold for a Special Birthday Celebration

March 7, 2019 by 22 Comments

Welcome to the 544th Tablescape Thursday! Recently BNOTP readers, Warren and Kathie, shared some wonderful photos with me of a table Warren had put together for a special upcoming event. They make a great team since Kathie does all the cooking while Warren takes care of the table setting. Warren said, "We are having a party, this time in celebration of my sister-in-law’s 70th birthday." In honor of … [Read more...]

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I’ve Made a Decision: I’ve Chosen My Carry-on Bag for Future Trips

March 5, 2019 by 47 Comments

Over the last few weeks, I've received several comments and emails asking if I had made a decision on a carry-on bag for future trips. You may remember I was looking a lot of different choices in this previous post: An Away Luggage Update & Help Me Choose a New Carry-on Bag. I am happy to say, I have made a decision. I've decided to go with another Away bag since I loved so many features on the one I … [Read more...]

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I’m Pretty Sure I Hold the Title for the Most Botched Furniture Deliveries

March 4, 2019 by 37 Comments

Welcome to the 527th Metamorphosis Monday! If they were giving out awards for the most botched furniture deliveries, I have no doubt I would be in the running for first place! So though I don't have a finished project to share, at least I can share a solution I have in mind for a small ongoing problem I've been experiencing.   Just off my master bedroom is a small dressing room. It was … [Read more...]

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Flowers Upon Flowers Upon Flowers, Celebrating the Coming of Spring

February 28, 2019 by 65 Comments

Welcome to the 543rd Tablescape Thursday! A bit gloomy out today but I can't complain too much since we've had several days in a row of wonderful sunshine. Remember this photo I shared a while back of this Ralph Lauren plaid-on-plaid bedding ensemble? I had something like this in mind yesterday while setting a table for this week's Tablescape Thursday, only I was envisioning floral-on-floral and … [Read more...]

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An Uninvited Dinner Guest, AKA The Bear Who Came to Dinner

February 27, 2019 by 38 Comments

Have you ever had an uninvited dinner guest? Recently I mentioned in a post about some critters who were trying to take up residence inside the grill out on one of my decks. Since I so rarely used my grill and this wasn't the first time that had happened, I ended up giving the grill to a friend. Linda, a BNOTP reader, occasionally has uninvited guests visit her deck, too. What would you do if you looked … [Read more...]

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All My Favorite Beauty Products, Including Some Inexpensive Drug Store Favorites

February 25, 2019 by 68 Comments

Welcome to the 526th Metamorphosis Monday! When it comes to makeup, I've always just gone with just a few basics for daily wear. It's not that I don't love how a full face of makeup looks on others, because I really do. It's just that I don't have the patience to spend more than about 3 minutes on makeup each day. Also, as I've gotten older, I find that less is definitely better. For this week's Met … [Read more...]

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5 BNOTP Readers Are Going to England + A Bucket List Upgrade for My Flight

February 23, 2019 by 53 Comments

From time to time I get comments or e-mails from Between Naps On The Porch readers asking if I would consider putting a trip together. I love that idea but I've never really planned a trip before. For all the trips I've taken, I've always left the details up to the experts. Recently Laura, a friend, and a retired College English professor, put together a 10-day Literary Tour to England with the help of a … [Read more...]

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Bunny Cottontails and Beautiful Florals: A Little Springtime Dish Shopping

February 21, 2019 by 18 Comments

Welcome to the 542nd Tablescape Thursday! Yesterday I stopped by Pier 1 to see what new goodies they had in for spring. The first thing that caught my eye when I walked in the door was this fluffy pile of bunny ears and cottontails. lol   I had to see what they were so I looked a bit closer. Ohhh, they're little burlap wraps to go around the back of a chair. Sooo cute! Would love a set for … [Read more...]

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My Absolute Favorite Cleaner for Removing Denim Transfer Stains

February 19, 2019 by 28 Comments

A while back I shared a big issue I was having with denim transfer on the leather seats of my car. Since my leather driver's seat was so badly stained, in desperation I tried several products that normally you wouldn't use on leather after various leather cleaning products failed to work. The cleaner that worked the best at that time was Formula 409, but again, I wouldn't really recommend that for leather, … [Read more...]

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After All That Garage Dish Storage, What’s Left Inside?

February 18, 2019 by 59 Comments

Welcome to the 525th Metamorphosis Monday! How was your weekend? Hope you had a great one! It rained here a lot so I mostly stayed inside. One of the questions I'm often asked in comments is where I store all the dishware you see me using in table settings for Tablescape Thursday. If you've been following BNOTP for a while, you may remember that back during the summer of 2017, I added several cabinets … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Kitchen & Breakfast Area, My Nest Tagged With:

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A Romantic Candlelit Table for Valentine’s Day

February 14, 2019 by 49 Comments

Welcome to the 541st Tablescape Thursday! Never seems to matter what time of the morning/day I begin putting a table together for Tablescape Thursday, I never seem to complete it until after nightfall. Candlelight pictures are nice, right? :) But I would still like to share some daytime photos with you, so you'll find those further down in this post. These were taken last night and the daylight … [Read more...]

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5 YouTube Channels To Check Out & All Are Very Different

February 13, 2019 by 26 Comments

I don't have cable TV, disconnected it last year because there was rarely anything on that I enjoyed watching, at least not enough to justify the cost. Now I subscribe to Acorn TV which I do enjoy when I remember to watch. lol Hey, did you know the new Agatha Raisin season is out on Acorn? I just discovered that a few days ago. I think there are only 4 episodes so far. I've only had time to watch Episode 1, … [Read more...]

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Valentine’s Day & The 50 Greatest Love Letters of All Time

February 11, 2019 by 42 Comments

Welcome to the 524th Metamorphosis Monday! Years ago I had a bunny-painted window hanging atop the windows in the upstairs family room.   After a while, I began to crave seeing the windows in their wide-open, natural state, so I took Miss Bunny down.   She now stands guard in the garage over a potting bench. I may move her back to the bonus room one day, but for now I really … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, BNOTP Library, Valentine's Day Decor, Valentine's Day Holiday Home

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January Favorites & Some Recent Purchases for Spring & Summer

February 9, 2019 by 32 Comments

I'm a bit late doing this, but I wanted to share some of the items I've been using during the month of January that I've really enjoyed--my January Favorites, so to speak. I'm also sharing a few items I just ordered on sale, another I'm about to order that's 30% off and a bag that's come back in stock for spring. Take the Day Off: Clinique Cleansing Balm I have really dry skin so I always dread … [Read more...]

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A Tablescape to Celebrate the Chinese New Year & A Fun Game of Mahjong

February 7, 2019 by 18 Comments

Welcome to the 540th Tablescape Thursday! Recently Sandra, a lovely BNOTP reader, shared some wonderful pictures she had taken of a table setting she created for a dinner party to celebrate the Chinese New Year. This year, the Chinese New Year occurred on Tuesday, February 5th. Per Wikipedia, the Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year, is the Chinese festival that celebrates the … [Read more...]

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Big Changes in My Ancestry DNA Results! Did Your Results Change Too?

February 5, 2019 by 55 Comments

A couple of weeks ago a friend and I were chatting on the phone about her Ancestry DNA results. Her test results had just arrived and though some results were as she expected, others were quite surprising. During the conversation, she mentioned that the results showed her relatives had all settled in the Georgia-Florida area. Umm, that's interesting! When I had my DNA tested back in April 2016, it didn't … [Read more...]

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This Was Not How I Wanted to Kick Off Spring

February 4, 2019 by 66 Comments

Welcome to the 523rd Metamorphosis Monday! I'm dreaming of spring and some porch time.   But before spring arrives, I'll need to fix this thanks to a very bad mouse. Either a mouse or rat, not sure which, decided to chew his way in through one of the screened porch doors. In an effort to stop the intruder from getting onto the porch and decks again, my pest control guy blocked the hole. He … [Read more...]

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A Little Chit Chat: Best Places to Shop in Atlanta, Express Lanes, Great Glasses Case

February 2, 2019 by 54 Comments

Yesterday I drove into Atlanta to return something to a store inside Lenox Square Mall in Buckhead. It was one of the most frustrating trips driving in that I think I've ever had. That's the thing about Atlanta, you never know what to expect traffic-wise. Interstate 285 (the beltway) was a parking lot so I exited off and tried to get Google maps to help me find another way. Instead, it took me backwards … [Read more...]

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A Football-Themed Table for Your Super Bowl Party

January 31, 2019 by 39 Comments

Welcome to the 539th Tablescape Thursday! Loved your comments so much on yesterday's post about possibly adding three storage cabinets to my upstairs hallway. You had me laughing and nodding my head so many times. I definitely recognized myself! I also loved your ideas for what I could store in them until (and if) my handbag collection ever grows. For now, I'm trying to resist buying the cabinets for … [Read more...]

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Inner Conflicts

January 29, 2019 by 77 Comments

Irrational Me: Let's go shopping and buy three cabinets with doors like Elaine uses for her handbag storage! Rational Me: But you don't have enough handbags to fill even one cabinet. Irrational Me: I know, but I keep my handbags forever and I'll probably add to my collection in the years to come. Rational Me: No one needs that many handbags.   Irrational Me: But, but, there are so … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY Organization and Storage, Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods

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Looking Forward to Less Ironing and More Playing This Summer

January 28, 2019 by 28 Comments

Welcome to the 522nd Metamorphosis Monday! A few months back, I purchased this fabric/clothes steamer pictured below. I've always wanted a floor-standing steamer. I wear almost nothing but cotton and linen clothing during the spring and summer months. I love how cotton and linen fabrics feel against my skin and how they breathe during the hot, humid days of summer. I don't even mind the wrinkles that … [Read more...]

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A Beautiful Perfume, Fun Agenda Stickers and a Helpful Tool for Removing Bugs

January 26, 2019 by 32 Comments

Note: If you're still having problems seeing the most current posts here at Between Naps On The Porch, clear your browser cache and that should fix it. If you're not sure how to clear your cache, Google the phrase, "How to clear cache in XXX browser" filling in the XXXs with the browser you use, and directions should pop right up. Happy Weekend to you! The sun is shining and it's so beautiful outside, … [Read more...]

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Beautiful Springtime Dinnerware: Shopping For Valentine’s Day and Easter

January 24, 2019 by 24 Comments

Welcome to the 538th Tablescape Thursday! Recently I stopped by PotteryBarn and Williams-Sonoma to check out their spring collection of dishware. It's that time of year when they are starting to get in all the beautiful spring patterns.   I was thrilled to see they brought back this adorable bunny bowl. I have this one and use it all throughout spring and summer on my kitchen counter. It … [Read more...]

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Serving Ideas for Your Super Bowl Party

January 23, 2019 by 27 Comments

I'm often asked where I get ideas for the tables I create for Tablescape Thursday. The actual answer isn't very helpful because it changes every week. The true answer is: everywhere. Sometimes it's dishware I already have and that I'm itching to use, or it could be an upcoming holiday. Inspiration can really come from anywhere. Today I was shopping in Publix and saw these. They reminded me that the Super … [Read more...]

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Handbag Storage Idea: Protect Your Bags, But Keep Them Visible

January 21, 2019 by 22 Comments

Welcome to the 521st Metamorphosis Monday! Do you collect anything? Is there something that you truly love and are always on the lookout for when you're out shopping or antiquing--like rare stamps or first-editions of your favorite books? I know someone who used to collect cute pig figurines until everyone in her family caught on and she became inundated with them. lol My mother-in-law used to collect … [Read more...]

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Soup Time, A Big Sale & My Favorite Boots for Winter

January 20, 2019 by 10 Comments

Stressful Two Days! Did you notice the blog was kinda wonky on Friday and Saturday? My host company was trying to help me figure out what was going on. They thought the server was being overwhelmed with bot traffic, the type that attempts to hack into a server in an effort to take it over. They had no suggestions on how to stop it other than turning up the security level of the blog to the "I'm under … [Read more...]

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The Book Club Meeting: A Cozy, Candlelight Setting

January 17, 2019 by 56 Comments

Welcome to the 537th Tablescape Thursday! I was in the mood for a candlelight setting this week, something cozy to chase away the rain and the cold days of January.   This post was delayed this morning due to a technical issue my host company is working on. So if BNOTP is running a bit slower than normal, they are working on it. I had this table all set and was ready to start taking … [Read more...]

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An Away Luggage Update and Help Me Choose a New Carry-on Bag

January 15, 2019 by 72 Comments

Before I left for a trip to Egypt last October, I purchased this snazzy, aluminum, Away carry-0n bag for the trip. Over the last few months, I've had several comments and emails asking how that bag worked out. Though I loved the bag, I sadly decided to return it after the trip. In today's post, I thought I'd share what I loved about the bag, why I returned it and what bag(s) I'm considering buying … [Read more...]

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An Ornery Weather Station

January 14, 2019 by 40 Comments

Welcome to the 520th Metamorphosis Monday! Unfortunately, I'm still sick with some kind of virus. My throat is still really swollen. If I'm not better in the next day or two, I'm going for a strep test.  I don't really have a Before and After to share since I spent much of yesterday (when I felt up to it) doing boring stuff like putting wreaths back into storage under the eaves in the upstairs family … [Read more...]

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My (and my son’s) Winter Favorites

January 12, 2019 by 62 Comments

This is how fall/winter always starts for me: It's the end of September and I'm dreading the end of summer. I wish I could keep fall/winter from coming or at least somehow fast forward through it to spring. I almost feel depressed thinking that summer is over and the long months of winter are upon us. Then Halloween happens, I love Halloween and all the decorating and silliness that accompanies it. … [Read more...]

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Dinner in the 1902 Restaurant, Old Cataract Hotel, Aswan Egypt

January 10, 2019 by 24 Comments

Welcome to the 536th Tablescape Thursday! Last October, my friend, Teresa, and I spent 15 days traveling across Egypt. That trip was definitely one of the most exciting, mysterious, bucket-list trips I've ever been on. In a word, it was awesome--Disney Rash and all! lol During the trip to Egypt, we had a rather interesting adventure on a visit to the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel in Aswan. The Old … [Read more...]

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Beautiful Calendar Inserts for Any Agenda, Especially for the Louis Vuitton Fan

January 9, 2019 by 34 Comments

Last summer I was offered a trip to Maui, Hawaii by a friend who had booked a week there, but ended up not being able to go due to another commitment. (Read more about that trip under the Travel category at the top of BNOTP here: Travel.) During that trip, I did some shopping which included visiting a Louis Vuitton store in Whalers Village. While inside I spotted the most beautiful antique trunk! Until … [Read more...]

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Easy Storage for Winter Boots, Keeps Them Upright-No Slouching or Falling Over

January 7, 2019 by 30 Comments

Welcome to the 519th Metamorphosis Monday! Whooo, I'm back home. I got in quite late last night after the always-long drive home from Ohio. The drive went by relatively fast since the weather was awesome (no rain!) and I was listening to a really good book all the way home. The book I was listening to via Audible was, Influenza: The Hundred Year Hunt to Cure The Deadliest Disease in History by Dr. Jeremy … [Read more...]

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Embracing Winter with 3 Winter-Themed Tablescapes

January 3, 2019 by 36 Comments

Welcome to the 535th Tablescape Thursday! As we head into the coldest months of winter here in the U.S., I thought I'd share a few wintery tables from the past. I'll be leaving family to head back home soon, how did the holidays go by so quickly?! I'm sure you're asking the same thing...goes by faster every year, doesn't it? (Click on any title below to view more of that table setting.) A Wintery … [Read more...]

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Jane Austen Fans: Would You Enjoy a Literary Tour of Southern England?

January 2, 2019 by 21 Comments

Happy New Year! I hope 2019 has had an awesome start for you! It's always around this time of the year that I'm finally able to accept the cold weather and have begun to embrace it. I love a good excuse for staying inside and curling up under a throw with a good book or just watching a favorite old movie.   A Travel Opportunity for the Classic Literature Lover, especially the Jane Austen … [Read more...]

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Keep Silver Jewelry Visible, Yet Tarnish-free While Stored Away

December 31, 2018 by 19 Comments

Welcome to the 518th Metamorphosis Monday! Happy New Year to you! Any exciting plans for New Year's Eve? I have something I just discovered that I'm super excited to share with you for this week's Metamorphosis Monday! Over the past 20 years, I've collected or have been given as a gift, several pieces of silver jewelry. Some jewelry, like the silver jewelry from Tiffany & Co., comes in a little … [Read more...]

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2 Beautiful Christmas Table Settings: Elegant in Silver, Festive in Red

December 26, 2018 by 16 Comments

Welcome to the 534th Tablescape Thursday! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! Hope you are having a special time visiting with family and friends! We're all still in a holiday state of mind here as the new year approaches. Over this past week, I received wonderful photos of beautiful Christmas table settings from two lovely BNOTP readers. Norma set an elegant Christmas table in shades of white and … [Read more...]

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Making Smoked Barbecue in a Big Green Egg

December 24, 2018 by 20 Comments

Welcome to the 517th Metamorphosis Monday! Good Morning! Hope you're having a great Christmas Eve! I'm spending time with family this week and I don't have my usual "Before and After" to share, so I thought I'd share something my son, Chip, was working on throughout the day, yesterday. In the wee hours of the morning, he got a Boston Butt/Pork Butt going in his Big Green Egg smoker-grill. We spent … [Read more...]

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