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

March 25, 2019 by 31 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...]

Filed Under: Bedroom (Master), Before & After, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: , ,

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This $16.99 Product Changed My Life! Seriously!

March 23, 2019 by 63 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...]

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

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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 36 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 22 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...]

Filed Under: Travel

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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...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty

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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...]

Filed Under: Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: , ,

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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...]

Filed Under: Romantic Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday, Valentine's Day Table Settings, Valentine's Day Tablescapes Tagged With: , , , ,

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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 54 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...]

Filed Under: Tablescape Thursday, Winter Tablescapes Tagged With: , , , , , ,

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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...]

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

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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...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty

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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 28 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...]

Filed Under: Before & After, DIY Organization and Storage, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds Tagged With: , , , ,

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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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The Big Present Puzzle & Making It All Fit

December 21, 2018 by 67 Comments

Thanks so much for sharing in the comments on yesterday's post how you keep track of recipes you find online that interest you and that you may want to make some day. I learned so many new things from you and I'm impressed with the systems you have devised for keeping up with recipes! One of the reasons I asked that question is because I was contemplating adding a recipe Plugin to BNOTP that would let … [Read more...]

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5 Christmas Recipes That Will Having Them Coming Back for 2nd’s and 3rd’s

December 20, 2018 by 65 Comments

Welcome to the 533rd Tablescape Thursday! A Question For You So I've been wondering, what's your favorite way to keep up with a recipe you find online and would possibly like to make one day? Do you pin the recipe post to Pinterest? Or, do you have a recipe file on your computer where you just bookmark the post or website? Or, do you print it out right then and there? What is your favorite way … [Read more...]

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Oh, The Surprising Things You’ll See Through a Ring Doorbell!

December 18, 2018 by 50 Comments

Back on November 28th, I blogged about my intentions to add a Ring Doorbell to my home for increased security and convenience. If you missed that original post, you'll find it here: Finally Doing It-I'm Adding a Security Camera to my Front Porch. Today I'm sharing how the installation went along with one hiccup I encountered and how I solved it. If you have any questions after reading this post,  leave … [Read more...]

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A Wreath Switcheroo: Staying With a Natural Green Wreath From Now On

December 17, 2018 by 29 Comments

Welcome to the 516th Metamorphosis Monday! A week or two ago I shared how the porch was decorated for Christmas. You may remember I wasn't thrilled with how this ornament wreath looked against my red door. I'm using it elsewhere, it looks great out on the screened porch.   So, here's how the porch looks now.   I was a little worried at first about the performance of … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Christmas Decor, Porches, Porches & Decks

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Gift Ideas for Kids of All Ages, I Want Some of These!

December 16, 2018 by 14 Comments

Update: If you have trouble seeing links below, please exit out of the post and load it again to see if that corrects the problem. This will be my last gift idea post and this one is geared toward the little ones who steal our hearts every day. I will continue to add gift ideas to this post as I've been doing with the other gift posts I've put together, so be sure to check back if you're still looking … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Gift Ideas, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds

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Favorite Gift Ideas for the Men in Our Life

December 15, 2018 by 7 Comments

Update: If you have trouble seeing links below, please exit out of the post and load it again to see if that corrects the problem. Recently, I shared a few gift ideas that would make great stocking stuffers. If you missed that post, you'll find it here: Stocking Stuffers They'll Love on Christmas Day.   A few days later I shared suggestions for the ladies in your life. That post can be … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Gift Ideas, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds

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The Star Was Too Big, But at Least the Presents are Wrapped

December 14, 2018 by 56 Comments

Christmas is just 11 days away! Wow, this month is flying by! I have the presents all wrapped, but I'm doing something a little different this year. I don't think I'm going to add bows to the presents, well at least not right now. If I do, they will all get crushed when I pack them into my SUV to head north for Christmas. Maybe once I arrive, I'll add some bows then. That sounds like a good … [Read more...]

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A Christmas Vacation Table Setting with Dept. 56 Lit Houses

December 13, 2018 by 55 Comments

Welcome to the 533rd Tablescape Thursday! This has been such an interesting, busy week. Yesterday I was awakened at 4:15 in the morning by a trembling bed. Having experienced two earthquakes during the last 10 or so years, I was pretty sure we were having another one. A quick check of Twitter confirmed it. I rarely visit Twitter but it's a great place to go if you're wondering if an earthquake has just … [Read more...]

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Gifts Any Woman Would Love, Even The Picky Ones!

December 11, 2018 by 20 Comments

Update: If you have trouble seeing links below, please exit out of the post and load it again to see if that corrects the problem. Recently, I shared a few items that I thought would be much-appreciated stocking stuffers this year. If you missed that post, you'll find it here: Stocking Stuffers They'll Love on Christmas Day. Today I thought I'd share a few goodies that I think would make wonderful … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Gift Ideas, Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds

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16 Ideas for Celebrating Christmas and the Holiday season

December 10, 2018 by 15 Comments

Welcome to the 515th Metamorphosis Monday! How was your weekend? Did you attend any holiday home tours? We had one here but it was just too rainy and cold, so I stayed in and wrapped presents. I got a lot done, but still have so many more to wrap. It's really been an enjoyable task since I've been watching documentaries on the life of Jane Austen on my iPad while wrapping. I should be watching Christmas … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Holiday Home

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Stocking Stuffers They’ll Love on Christmas Day

December 8, 2018 by 27 Comments

Update: If you have trouble seeing links below, please exit out of the post and load it again to see if that corrects the problem. Happy Weekend! How is your Christmas shopping going? I've finished mine now, just waiting for a few additional items to arrive. Today and tomorrow will be gift-wrapping day and it's gonna take a while since I tend to go a little crazy buying gifts at Christmastime. If … [Read more...]

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12 Days of Christmas Table Setting with a Guest Appearance by One of the 6 Geese

December 6, 2018 by 68 Comments

Welcome to the 532nd Tablescape Thursday! Today I'm wishing I had a table that seated 12. I'd love to share all 12 place settings of this pattern with you for this week's Tablescape Thursday.   I had planned to place this table in the breakfast room, but at the last minute I decided to set it here in the dining room.   I took these photos late, late last night. Picture … [Read more...]

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Why My Laptop’s Built-in Camera Has Been Covered for the Last 10+ Years.

December 5, 2018 by 32 Comments

Many years ago, before I had ever heard of blogs, I took my then computer laptop to a computer store to have it repaired. When I placed it on the counter inside the repair shop and opened it up, I was a little embarrassed. Before leaving home, I had forgotten to remove the folded up yellow Post-it note I had taped over the camera. I hastily removed it, mumbling something about having heard you could be … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY Repairs and Fixes, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds

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If You’re Feeling Behind Right Now, Hope This Makes You Feel Better

December 4, 2018 by 59 Comments

If you're feeling behind right now, know that you're not alone. I feel a little like that guy on the old Ed Sullivan show (dating myself here) who is up on stage spinning 20 dinner plates at one time. I think that's the way my brain works best, though. I'll start a Christmas decorating project, get 2/3rds of the way in, starting feeling a bit bored and start another one. Last night, determined to get the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Decor, Christmas Gift Ideas

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Pottery Barn Inspired Christmas Garland: Bigger and Better Second Time Around

December 3, 2018 by 48 Comments

Welcome to the 514th Metamorphosis Monday! I had hoped to do an update on the installation of the Ring Doorbell today, but I need one more part to fix an issue it's having. Hopefully, the part I've ordered will arrive this week, then I'll be able to complete that final post. So watch for that coming up real soon.   Pottery Barn Inspired Christmas Garland Gets an Update Many, many years ago … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Christmas Crafts, Christmas Decor, Christmas Gift Ideas Tagged With: ,

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My Uber Eats Experience & A Ring Doorbell Update

December 2, 2018 by 20 Comments

Have you tried Uber Eats, yet? I thought I'd pop in and just share my experience in case you're interested. This isn't a Sponsored post, Uber Eats does not know me, just sharing because I've had excellent experiences and have really enjoyed it. This past summer, I went from having never used Uber to lately using it a lot. The first time I used Uber was when I was in Maui for a week this past summer. I … [Read more...]

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Create a Little Snack Center, A Small Thank-you to Our Delivery Men & Women

November 30, 2018 by 46 Comments

My day had a not-so-great start. I awoke, turned on my computer and it began making an odd whirring sound. I think the fan in the CPU tower has gone out. Again. ~~~sigh~~~  It shut down by itself and made a terrible "siren" sound when I attempted to restart it. So I'll be packing a lunch (because it takes that long to get there and back!) and driving to the other side of Atlanta today to leave it for … [Read more...]

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Plaid Everything! Yes, Please!

November 29, 2018 by 28 Comments

Welcome to the 531st Tablescape Thursday! Just before I left to fly north for Thanksgiving, I stopped into Pottery Barn to scope out all their Christmas dinnerware. They always have such fun holiday dinnerware. I love seeing it all and it really gets me excited for the holidays. Since Thanksgiving was just a few days away, they no longer had Thanksgiving dinnerware on display. I just noticed today, … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Table Settings, Christmas Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday

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Finally Doing It–I’m Adding a Security Camera to My Front Porch

November 28, 2018 by 46 Comments

I've been thinking about adding a security camera to my front porch for a long, long time. Fortunately, I've never had a package or anything go missing from my porch, but a camera could come in handy for that, as well. The main reason I've been wishing to add a camera is in hopes of avoiding unnecessary interruptions. So often when I'm working in the office or somewhere in the house, I'll hear the doorbell … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Gift Ideas, DIY Repairs and Fixes, Porches Tagged With: ,

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A Family Christmas Mantel & The Best Cyber Monday Shopping Finds

November 26, 2018 by 24 Comments

Welcome to the 513th Metamorphosis Monday! My sweet daughter-in-law, Nancy, has been sick the past few days with a yucky cold, but this weekend she was feeling much better and started pulling out the Christmas decorations. It was so much fun seeing my grandson's reactions to the trees, lights and pretty decorations. There were a lot of Ooohhs and Ahhhs and WOWs! One of the areas that saw a makeover … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Christmas Decor, Christmas Gift Ideas, Thanksgiving Decor

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My Favorite Black Friday Sales

November 23, 2018 by 13 Comments

I don't think I've ever been more excited for a Black Friday than I am today. The sales are pretty much the best you'll find throughout the year, and I love that I can stay at home in my PJs and still take advantage of all the best deals! Noritake is having their BIGGEST sale of the year with everything sitewide at 30-50% off!   These beautiful Christmas accent plates are on sale 30% off. … [Read more...]

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Happy Thanksgiving to You!

November 22, 2018 by 23 Comments

Welcome to the 530th Tablescape Thursday! Happy Thanksgiving to you! For this week's Tablescape Thursday, I'm sharing links to 8 previous Thanksgiving table settings. If you're looking for any last minute ideas this morning, hope these will provide a bit of inspiration for your Thanksgiving table. Click on any title or picture below to open that particular Thanksgiving Tablescape post. Thanksgiving … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fall Tablescapes, Thanksgiving Table Settings, Thanksgiving Tablescapes Tagged With: ,

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Easily Add Lighting to Attics, Closets & Sheds & A Wallet Update I Just Made

November 19, 2018 by 39 Comments

Welcome to the 512th Metamorphosis Monday! I have two quick updates to share for this week's Met Monday. Hope you find these helpful! I store the majority of my Christmas decorations here in the upstairs bonus room eaves. As seen below, there are little doors that lead to that storage area.   That area can be quite dark, especially when all the wreaths I hang on my exterior windows are … [Read more...]

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Hanging Wreaths & My Favorite Tartan Flannel Sheets Are On Sale

November 17, 2018 by 23 Comments

Have you completed your autumn decorations? I didn't really decorate a lot this year since I was out of the country for most of October, then under the weather with a nasty cold/virus for 10+ days of November. About the only decorating I did prior to leaving for Egypt was to hang a fall wreath on my front door. (See more of this wreath in this previous post: Autumn Wreath for the Front … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Holiday Home, Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Thanksgiving Holiday Home

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Dining in a Country Lodge, An Autumn Inspired Table Setting

November 15, 2018 by 41 Comments

Welcome to the 529th Tablescape Thursday! It's very cold here in Georgia right now, so I'm dreaming I'm in a beautiful lodge. There's a roaring, crackling fire blazing away in the massive stone fireplace. I'm curled up under a cozy, warm throw, reading The Secret Garden for the thousandth time while sipping the yummiest hot chocolate. What's that? It's time for dinner?   A dark … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fall Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday, Winter Tablescapes Tagged With: , , , ,

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

November 13, 2018 by 73 Comments

After visiting the Hanging Church in Cairo, I was less than thrilled when our guide announced we were next headed to the souk, 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 and were … [Read more...]

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

November 12, 2018 by 21 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, DIY Organization and Storage, Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods

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Christmas Shopping This Weekend & Taking Advantage of the Best Sales

November 10, 2018 by 31 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: Christmas Gift Ideas, Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods

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

November 8, 2018 by 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...]

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

November 7, 2018 by 66 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...]

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

November 5, 2018 by 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, Christmas Crafts, Christmas Decor, Christmas Holiday Home Tagged With: , , , , ,

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

November 1, 2018 by 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...]

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

October 29, 2018 by 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

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What Do Travelers Really Wear When Visiting Egypt?

October 27, 2018 by 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: , , , ,

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

October 24, 2018 by 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: , , , ,

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Thinking Ahead to Christmas: Colonial Williamsburg Style Door Idea

October 22, 2018 by 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, Christmas Crafts, Christmas Decor, Christmas Holiday Home, DIY Crafts & Sewing Tagged With: , , , , ,

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

October 20, 2018 by 45 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...]

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Humorous Halloween Centerpiece for a Festive Birthday Celebration

October 18, 2018 by 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: , , , , ,

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10 Halloween Crafts for the Home and Table

October 15, 2018 by 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, Halloween Crafts, Halloween Holiday Home Tagged With: , , , , ,

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

October 12, 2018 by 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...]

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A Canadian Thanksgiving Celebration with Harvest Pumpkin China

October 11, 2018 by 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...]

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

October 9, 2018 by 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: , , , , ,

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