Susan

Fall Dining: Celebrating the Glorious Colors of Autumn

September 21, 2023 by Susan 11 Comments

Welcome to the 782nd Tablescape Thursday! I had planned to share a new table this week, but as the time grew closer, my mind was way too preoccupied with a major home update that was supposed to begin yesterday. At the last minute, the company doing the work had to reschedule to start tomorrow. My yard right now is littered with red, orange, and yellow flags from the various utility companies. I'll be … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fall Tablescapes, Seasonal Decor, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Autumn Table Settings, Fall Dining, Tablescape Thursday

Brief Cabinetgate Update & Some Halloween-Autumn Inspiration

September 20, 2023 by Susan 21 Comments

Here's a quick little update on Cabinetgate for those who are interested--if not, just skip on down a few photos to the fun stuff! On Friday, after the UPS driver left with the storage cabinets I had ordered still in her truck because she was physically unable to get them off the truck in order to deliver them... ...AND after having told me she would mark them in their system as damaged … [Read more...]

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

Cabinetgate Continues, It’s The Never-Ending Drama

September 18, 2023 by Susan 23 Comments

Welcome to the 764th Metamorphosis Monday! If you've been reading BNOTP for a while, you may remember that back in the day when I first started ordering storage cabinets for the garage (and now for the basement) the cabinets were often arriving very badly damaged. They would often arrive with big chips and dents in various parts. During that period, I had so many returns and reorders, only … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Basement/Terrace Level, Before & After

Autumn Handbag Shopping, So Many Beautiful Styles for Fall!

September 17, 2023 by Susan 10 Comments

A week or so back I shared a post with a very cool trick I had just read about for removing ink marks from leather handbags. (That post can be found here: Miracle Trick for Removing Pen & Ink Marks from Leather Bags.) Sherry left a comment asking if I had any plans to share a post with some of the new fall handbag styles. Being a huge handbag lover, I thought that would be a fun post to create. Thanks … [Read more...]

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

We’re In The Mountains Of Big Canoe For This Week’s Tablescape Thursday

September 14, 2023 by Susan 32 Comments

Welcome to the 781st Tablescape Thursday! Over the last few days, I've been spending a little time in the north Georgia mountains. This was the charming Airbnb home I booked in the mountain community of Big Canoe. Big Canoe is around a 1 to 1-1/2 hour drive north of my home, so it's the perfect location for a little getaway. Just a couple of hours after I arrived, I received this message … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Tablescape Thursday, Travel, United States

A New Method For Storing The 13 Christmas Wreaths I Hang On My Exterior Windows

September 11, 2023 by Susan 22 Comments

Welcome to the 763rd Metamorphosis Monday! How was your weekend? I hope you had a great one! Mine was busy and turned out to be quite productive. I started pulling out all of the holiday decor I had stored under the attic eaves, hauling it all two flights of stairs down to the basement. There was a lot stored here on the Christma-storage side. In addition to what you see, there were around … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Basement/Terrace Level, Before & After, DIY Organization and Storage Tagged With: Basement Storage, Christmas Storage, Christmas Wreath Storage, Halloween Storage, Metamorphosis Monday, Storage Cabinets, Wreath Storage

My August Favorites + A Heads Up For The Ice Cream Lovers

September 8, 2023 by Susan 36 Comments

This girl is whipped right now! lol I've been clearing out the two attic eaves for the last two days and wow, I had forgotten just how large that area is and how much stuff (holiday decor) was stored under there. I have everything out now and have carried around 3/4ths of it down to the basement. Just a little bit more to go and I'll have it all downstairs. It's been quite the job carrying everything down … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Monthly Favorites Tagged With: August Favorites, Between Naps on the Porch

Whimsical Fitz & Floyd Halloween Serving Pieces, Hidden Away & Almost Forgotten

September 7, 2023 by Susan 14 Comments

Welcome to the 780th Tablescape Thursday! Today's Tablescape Thursday is a bit different. As mentioned in an earlier post this week, the next few weeks are going to be crazy busy, at least my definition of crazy busy. Ha! I got a bug in my bustle a few weeks ago, actually, it started around the time I was having the new irrigation controller installed in the garage. In order to install an outlet on the wall … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Halloween Table Settings, Halloween Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Dish Storage, Fitz & Floyd, Fitz & Floyd Halloween, Tablescape Thursday

This Miracle Trick For Removing Pen & Ink Marks From Leather Saved My Handbag

September 6, 2023 by Susan 26 Comments

Recently I discovered an amazing little trick that I never knew about! I had a mini-disaster occur with one of my handbags. There's a barbecue restaurant about 15 minutes from my home. I'm rarely in that area so when I do find myself near the restaurant, I'll sometimes go through their drive-thru to order one of their BBQ plates. On my last visit a few weeks back, when I reached the window where you pay … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY Repairs and Fixes, Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods Tagged With: Handbag Tricks, Remove Ink Marks, Remove Pen Marks

A New Carry-on Bag–Plus, Some Home Renovation Updates In The Works

September 4, 2023 by Susan 18 Comments

Welcome to the 762nd Metamorphosis Monday! I hope you've been having a relaxing Labor Day weekend. I'm running a tad behind due to computer issues. My computer this morning suddenly decided it didn't want to let me access any of the photos, including the ones I needed for this post. I finally got it to work, hope it stays working. Computers are always a love/hate relationship, aren't they? Before we get … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Travel Tagged With: Before and After, Best Carry-on Bag, London Fog, Luggage, Metamorphosis Monday, Travel

Dining Poolside: A Nostalgic Tiki-Themed Table Inspired By Childhood Memories

August 31, 2023 by Susan 6 Comments

Welcome to the 779th Tablescape Thursday! Summer is winding down but I'm not ready to say goodbye just yet. Are you starting to see some cooler weather in your area? Recently Elena set a delightful, seaside-themed table with fun Tiki accents. I love the cute tiki candles Elena has tucked into her centerpiece. I also love how she tucked a fishing net in among the other pieces in her … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Beachy Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Beach-Themed Table, Between Naps on the Porch, Pool-side Dining, Tablescape Thursday, Tiki-Themed Table

How To Adjust The Size Of The Grind On A Salt Or Pepper Shaker

August 30, 2023 by Susan 16 Comments

This is probably one of those, "everyone in the world knows this but me" things. lol I love this salt and pepper shaker that I purchased a few years back--except for one thing. Over the past few months, the pepper shaker puts out these huge pepper chunks when I grind a little pepper into my eggs in the morning. This morning, after it happened once again, I started thinking I was just going to have to look … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY Repairs and Fixes, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods Tagged With: Pepper Shaker Grind Adjustment, Salt Pepper Shaker Grind Size, Salt Shaker Grind Adjustment

A Successful Microwave Installation & Protecting The Top of My New Washer

August 28, 2023 by Susan 18 Comments

Welcome to the 761st Metamorphosis Monday! I have two quick updates to share for this week's Met Monday. I finally have a working microwave again. The Home Depot installation went great and was handled professionally--they even arrived during the time frame of the appointment. Also, the microwave actually works! So happy to have this completed after two previously failed attempts from another … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Laundry Room

End of Summer Sale-On-Sale From One Of My Favorite Shoppes

August 27, 2023 by Susan 4 Comments

I've been so bad this weekend! I'm trying to save for home renovations but there are so many great end-of-summer sales going on right now, I can't resist! Here are a few of the items that are tempting me. This beautiful linen shirt was already on sale and now it's an additional 40% off. Love the length! This is basically how I dress every day all summer long, white scalloped shorts (from Talbots years … [Read more...]

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

A Late Summer Table Setting–Sunflower Inspired

August 24, 2023 by Susan 14 Comments

Welcome to the 778th Tablescape Thursday! Did you know sunflowers normally bloom starting in July and can bloom all the way into October? I didn't realize that until I researched it today. I love sunflowers so much! The info I found online said that you can have non-stop flowers from July through October if you sow new seeds/plants every couple of weeks. I wish my backyard wasn't so shady because I would … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fall Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Acorn Napkin Rings, Between Naps on the Porch, Rattan Chargers, Square Charger Plates, Sunflower Plates, Sunflower Table Setting, Tablescape Thursday

Make Seashell Napkin Rings For Your Summer, Beach-Themed Table Settings

August 21, 2023 by Susan 8 Comments

Welcome to the 760th Metamorphosis Monday! One of the things I love most about blogging is hearing from you and all the wonderful crafts and projects that you're working on. Elena, a lovely BNOTP reader, recently set a fun, beach-themed table for family that included these wonderful shell napkin rings that she hand-crafted herself. I've made shell chargers before--tutorial for those is … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, DIY Crafts & Sewing, Spring & Summer Tablescapes Tagged With: Before and After, DIY Shell Napkin Rings, Metamorphosis Monday, Napkin Ring Tutorial, Shell Craft, Shell Napkin Rings, Summer Craft Project

What I Couldn’t Pass Up At This End-of-Season Clearance Sale

August 19, 2023 by Susan 8 Comments

I've been shopping the "end of season" clearance sale that's going on right now at Talbots and found a pair of jeans I can't resist. Currently, everything that's on sale is an additional 60% off! That's my kind of sale! One of the first things that caught my eye was this pretty zipper jacket that's all cotton. I'm a cotton snob, but you already know that about me. It's gotta be cotton or linen for summer! … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods Tagged With: Clearance Sale, End of Summer Sale, Fall Transition Clothing Sale, Transition Pieces

3 Seaside, Beach-Inspired Hutches & Holding Onto Summer As Long As I Can

August 17, 2023 by Susan 6 Comments

Welcome to the 777th Tablescape Thursday! I always start feeling a bit nostalgic as we move through the month of August. The weather here in Georgia usually feels like summer well into, and sometimes all the way through, the month of September, but I know for a lot of people, the end of August signals the close of summer, especially once Labor Day hits. For this week's Tablescape Thursday, to celebrate … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Beachy Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Beach-Themed Hutch, Nautical-Themed Hutch, Porch Hutch, Seaside-Themed Hutch, Tablescape Thursday

My July Favorites, Including Some That Would Make Great Birthday or Holiday Gifts

August 15, 2023 by Susan 12 Comments

I have some really great things to share with you that were my favorites for the month of July, starting with a new addition to my Penhaligon's perfume collection. If you've been reading BNOTP for a while, you know I seriously love me some perfume and have become a wee bit obsessed with the house of Penhaligon's over the past couple of years. I have a lot of their fragrances and love them all! When I heard … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, Monthly Favorites Tagged With: Between Naps on the Porch, Favorite Finds, Gift Ideas, Monthly Favorites

Favorite Frozen Pizza That Doesn’t Taste Like Frozen + Silicone Liners for Air Fryers

August 14, 2023 by Susan 35 Comments

Welcome to the 759th Metamorphosis Monday! I hope you had a fun, relaxing weekend! I had four things that I wanted to share today, and I swear, as soon as one of those things entered my brain, it exited right out the other side. I don't know what's wrong with me but sometimes I'll think of something that I need to purchase at the grocery store and seconds later I've had 5 more thoughts and can't even recall … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Recipes Tagged With: Metamorphosis Monday, Pizza, Recipes

Going Square: Added Six (6) New Pieces To My Ma Maison Collection

August 10, 2023 by Susan 26 Comments

Welcome to the 776th Tablescape Thursday! Last week for Tablescape Thursday, I shared a table with one of my most favorite dinnerware designs, Ma Maison by Tabletops Unlimited, designed by Dario Farrucci. As mentioned in that previous post, I came across this beautiful dinnerware while shopping in HomeGoods many, many years ago. The HG stores only had a few pieces each. I loved this design … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Cabbage Placemats, Ma Maison, Rooster Centerpiece, Rooster Glasses, Summer Table Setting, Sunflower Napkins, Tablescape Thursday, Tabletops Unlimited, Twig Flatware

How NOT to Have a Microwave Installed!

August 9, 2023 by Susan 63 Comments

This is the state of my kitchen right now, after multiple attempts to purchase and have a microwave installed. When it comes to buying appliances, I'm snakebit and starting to develop a case of ASPTSD--Appliance Shopping Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. If that's not an actual medical diagnosis, it may be time to suggest it. In June, my microwave started making bizarre noises, like a … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Kitchen & Breakfast Area

For Sinus Sufferers: I Finally Found Something That Works

August 7, 2023 by Susan 31 Comments

Welcome to the 758th Metamorphosis Monday! I hope you had an awesome weekend! For this week's Met Monday, I wanted to share a recent discovery I made that has really helped so much with my never-ending sinus issues. I've had sinus problems for many years, so long I can't even remember when they first started. If I catch a cold, I'm guaranteed a sinus infection will follow, but even when I don't have a … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds Tagged With: Before and After, Metamorphosis Monday, Sinus Inhaler, Sinus Issues, Sinus Steamer, Solution for Sinus Problem

A Summer Escape: Blue Skies, White Puffy Clouds & A Fantasy Cottage & Garden

August 3, 2023 by Susan 44 Comments

Welcome to the 775th Tablescape Thursday! A few days ago I shared this yummy La Fermière yogurt that I discovered while visiting family in Ohio during the month of July. The glazed terra cotta pots that it comes in were way too cute to toss out, so I kept making trips back to Dorothy Lane Market in hopes of collecting a few to use in a future table setting. I managed to collect 7 adorable little pots before … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Dario Farrucci, La Fermière Yogurt, La Fermière Yogurt Pots, Limelight Hydrangeas, Ma Maison, Tablescape Thursday, Tabletops Unlimited

An Epic End-of-Summer Sale-on-Sale–So Many Beautiful Pieces!

August 2, 2023 by Susan 5 Comments

I love this time of year because this is when all the best summer sales start popping up. Talbots is doing it again--they have a great 25% off sale going, then on top of that, they are giving 50% off the sale prices! I have several things in my cart right now and I am shocked by how great the pricing is coming out. You see the true sale price once the item is in the cart...and it's really good! One of … [Read more...]

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

Will The Garage Ever Be Done? Plus, A Foxtail Fern Flower Reveal

July 31, 2023 by Susan 33 Comments

Welcome to the 757th Metamorphosis Monday! How was your weekend? Mine was very relaxing, something I really needed after the long drive home from Ohio, but things are starting to get busy this week. I'm having a new microwave installed tomorrow, mine started making bizarre noises a few weeks ago. I ordered a new one but it ended up being backordered and will finally be installed tomorrow. Since I use my … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Garage Tagged With: Before and After, Foxtail Fern, Garage Makeover, Metamorphosis Monday

La Fermière Yogurt Pot–How to Remove Adhesive Off The Rim + A Yeti Tumbler Hack

July 27, 2023 by Susan 15 Comments

Welcome to the 774th Tablescape Thursday! I was visiting family in Ohio for the past 9 days and just got home around 6:30 last night after a long 9-hour drive. So though I don't have a table setting to share, I have two things that are table-related that I hope you'll find helpful. Yesterday, I shared these delicious yogurts I discovered during my time in Ohio. As mentioned in yesterday's post, this … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY Repairs and Fixes, Tablescape Thursday

2 Favorite, Affordable Luxuries, Including One I Just Discovered

July 26, 2023 by Susan 25 Comments

While I've been visiting family, I stopped by my favorite grocery store, Dorothy Lane Market. Normally, I don't enjoy grocery shopping and put it off until I absolutely have to go, but DLM is an experience! I wish they had locations in my area but sadly all their locations are here in Ohio. During a recent trip to DLM, I came across this yogurt by the French company, La Fermière. I was smitten by their … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds Tagged With: La Fermière, Tiffany & Co.

Attractive, Waterproof, Patio-Deck Storage For Outdoor Cushions, Toys, Gardening & Grilling Tools

July 24, 2023 by Susan 15 Comments

Welcome to the 756th Metamorphosis Monday! Hope you had a fabulous weekend! Well, it has been a process spanning several years, but I have finally managed to move all the toys I saved from my son's childhood--to my son's home in Ohio for his children to enjoy. Of course, I didn't save every toy from his childhood, but I did try to save the best ones that I felt were perennial and would never be outdated. … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, DIY Organization and Storage, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds Tagged With: Cushion Storage, Deck Storage, Garden Tool Storage, Metamorphosis Monday, Organizing, Patio Storage, Storage Box, Toy Storage, Waterproof Storage

A Few of My June Favorites

July 23, 2023 by Susan 2 Comments

Happy weekend! Hope you're having a great one! I'm visiting with family right now so there's been a lot of Catan playing, cooking out, and assembling of cat towers and storage boxes. lol I'll share more on the storage part for Metamorphosis Monday. In the meantime, here are some of those things that made my life easier and a lot better during the month of June. (Catan Game is available here: … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, Monthly Favorites Tagged With: Between Naps on the Porch, Monthly Favorites

Dining in the French Countryside, A French Farmhouse Table Setting With Wonderful Antiques

July 20, 2023 by Susan 26 Comments

Welcome to the 773rd Tablescape Thursday! We are dining outdoors in the French countryside today for Tablescape Thursday. Norma, who lives in the south of France, has invited us over for a wonderful luncheon, French-Farmhouse style! Norma sewed a delightful red and white bunting for the occasion. The bunting makes this outdoor gathering feel extra special and I love that Norma always makes … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Antiquing, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: French Antiques, French Countryside Dining, French Farmhouse Table Setting, Outdoor Dining, Tablescape Thursday

These Pierced Charger Plates Appear to Be Available Now In Very Limited Quantity

July 18, 2023 by Susan 16 Comments

I've been blogging now for 15 years, and in all those years of sharing table settings here on the blog, the item I've received the most questions about has to be these pierced, cream-colored charger plates I purchased from Horchow back in 2008. Though I've look several times over the years, I've never seen them available again at either Horchow or Neiman Marcus. They aren't … [Read more...]

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

How Do I Like My Speed Queen Washer & Would I Recommend It

July 17, 2023 by Susan 62 Comments

Welcome to the 755th Metamorphosis Monday! How was your weekend? I hope you had a great one! If you've been following along with my recent washing machine saga, you may remember my 43-1/2-year-old GE washing machine recently started having issues. The appliance repairman I've used in the past when my icemaker acted up, confirmed that parts are no longer available, so it was time to go washing machine … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, Laundry Room Tagged With: Best Washing Machine, Laundry Room, Metamorphosis Monday, Speed Queen TR7, Speed Queen Washer

So Many Summer Sales, Including Beautiful, Classic Villeroy & Boch!

July 13, 2023 by Susan 7 Comments

Welcome to the 772nd Tablescape Thursday! July is turning out to be a fun month for sales. Amazon just had their huge 2-day Prime Days Sale, Nordstrom is in the midst of their once-a-year Anniversary Sale which opens up to everyone on Monday and a lot of my favorite stores are celebrating Christmas in July. With so many great sales happening, I decided to see what's on sale for us dish lovers. Pottery … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Beachy Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Dinnerware Sales, Tablescape Thursday, Villeroy & Boch

Prime Days Are Here & Here’s What I’m Eyeing & Have In My Cart!

July 11, 2023 by Susan 1 Comment

If you shop a lot on Amazon and are a Prime member as I am, there are some awesome sales going on right now for Prime Members. I've been scoping out the sales today and so many things that I've personally purchased or given as gifts are currently on sale. If you start your holiday shopping early as I normally do, you're going to love the sales! Note: The Prime Days discount shopping is only going on today … [Read more...]

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

Why I Returned My Brand New Washer And The Washer I’ve Chosen To Replace It

July 10, 2023 by Susan 112 Comments

Welcome to the 754th Metamorphosis Monday! Recently I mentioned that my beloved 43-1/2-year-old washing machine, the only one I've ever owned, had to be replaced. The washer I purchased to replace it was delivered on June 21st and within 24 hours I was calling the store from which I purchased it, asking them to please come pick it back up. The Speed Queen washing machine you see on the left … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Laundry Room Tagged With: Choosing a Washing Machine, Metamorphosis Monday, Speed Queen Washer, Washing Machines

It’s Here—Talbots is Having Their Biggest Sale of the Season!

July 8, 2023 by Susan

Update: Talbots just announced a flash sale today (Sunday) so it's 40% off everything right now, even the items that weren't already on sale! Check out the flash sale here: Talbots Flash Sale. Whooo, Hooo! Talbots is having its biggest sale of the season. This sale only happens twice a year and what makes it so amazing is it's an extra 40% off everything that's already on sale, and there's a lot of good … [Read more...]

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

Naughty Ants & They’re Stealing All The Strawberries! It’s An Invasion!

July 6, 2023 by Susan 40 Comments

Welcome to the 771st Tablescape Thursday! When my son was little, one of his favorite books was a Caldecott Medal-winner by Chris Van Allsburg (author of Jumanji and The Polar Express) called, Two Bad Ants. As I was setting this table, I couldn't help but think of that book. The cousins of those two bad ants in Van Allsburg's book have found their way to my table this … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Ant Food Picks, Summer Picnics, Summer Table Setting, Tablescape Thursday

Sometimes It’s the Little Things That Can Make Life A Lot Better!

July 3, 2023 by Susan 37 Comments

Welcome to the 753rd Metamorphosis Monday! Have you ever had something annoy you for a long time, then one day that final straw hits and you realize you have to do something to fix it, or at least find something that works better? That's what finally happened to me with these super annoying tape dispensers I've been using for ages. The red one normally lives in the basement and I have another one just like … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Basement/Terrace Level, Before & After, DIY Organization and Storage, DIY Repairs and Fixes, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Garage, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds Tagged With: Before and After, Best Packing Tape Dispenser, Best Tape Dispenser, Genius Tape Dispenser, Metamorphosis Monday, Tape Dispenser

Planning a Last-Minute 4th of July Table-Celebration, So Many Wonderful Finds!

June 29, 2023 by Susan 16 Comments

Welcome to the 770th Tablescape Thursday! It has been a crazy week around here. The plumber has been here checking to see if I can move my washer connections to another wall in the laundry room for a possible future laundry room renovation, and he's coming back today for a follow-up. The roof cleaning company is also coming back today to touch up a few places that didn't come clean when they were here … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, Independence Day Crafts, Independence Day Decor, Independence Day Table Settings, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: 4th of July Table, Independence Day Celebration, Tablescape Thursday

2023 Version Of 21 Favorites That I Buy Over And Over Again–Can’t Do Without Them!

June 28, 2023 by Susan 6 Comments

Last summer I created a post where I shared 21 things I buy over and over again because they are just that awesome! I thought it would be fun to do that same post again for 2023. I'm sure there are going to be some repeats because that's what it's all about--those things that I love so much that I can't and won't stop buying them! I know I'm a broken record about these Ecco Yucatan sandals but I can't … [Read more...]

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

Sharing 4 (Actually 5) New Updates For This Week’s Metamorphosis Monday!

June 26, 2023 by Susan 21 Comments

Welcome to the 752nd Metamorphosis Monday! How was your weekend? I hope it was an awesome one! If you saw Saturday's post where I shared Norma's recipe for making this beautiful Tarte Soleil, you may want to revisit that post and print the recipe out again. Norma provided some additional details/corrections so I made a few changes, so definitely take a moment to print it out again if you would like a copy … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Basement/Terrace Level, Before & After, Garage Tagged With: Basement, Before and After, DG Garage, Makeovers, Metamorphosis Monday, Renovations

How to Make a Beautiful Tarte Soleil

June 24, 2023 by Susan 14 Comments

Happy weekend! For this past Tablescape Thursday, I shared a wonderful table setting Norma put together when she was expecting friends over for a luncheon. As mentioned in that previous post, Norma also made this beautiful Tarte Soleil to serve as an appetizer. I asked Norma if she would mind sharing her recipe, I would love to try making this stunning appetizer one day, although it's so … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Recipes Tagged With: Appetizer, Dessert, Easy Recipe, Party Appetizer, Party Dessert, Party Recipe, Recipe, Sun Tart, Tarte Soleil

A Charming, Rustic-French Table Setting, Complete With A Beautiful Tarte Soleil Appetizer

June 22, 2023 by Susan 16 Comments

Welcome to the 769th Tablescape Thursday! Thanks so much for all your comments on yesterday's post. I have so much to share about how things went yesterday. Let me just say, I think I see a Speed Queen TR5 or TR7 washer in my future. More about that later--for now, we've been invited to a wonderful luncheon in the south of France! ♥ Norma, a lovely BNOTP reader who has become a friend over the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Antique French Cheese Storage, French Cheese Molds, French Luncheon, French Table Setting, French Tablescape, Rustic French Table Setting, Sun Tart, Tablescape Thursday, Tarte Soleil, Tarte Soleil Appetizer

A New Washer Has Me Yearning For A Laundry Room-Butler’s Pantry Renovation

June 21, 2023 by Susan 40 Comments

The time was June 1979 and we had just graduated from college. During that final year of school, we lived on campus in a tiny apartment in what was referred to as "married student housing." With our studies now completed, we loaded up a small U-haul and headed off to Aberdeen Proving Ground in Aberdeen, Maryland for Officer Basic Training. Four months later, with that commitment completed, it was time to … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, Laundry Room Tagged With: Laundry Room, Laundry Room Renovation, LG Washing Machine

A Beautiful Addition To The Front Porch, Can You Guess What It Is?

June 19, 2023 by Susan 42 Comments

Welcome to the 751st Metamorphosis Monday! Quite a few years back I added two benches to my front porch. If you've been reading BNOTP for a while, you may remember this porch below. I came across this home/porch many years ago in a Southern Homes magazine and it was the inspiration for the front porch that I had added to my home back in 2008. Notice the benches on the inspiration porch. I … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: Awning Stripe Cushions, Bench Cushions, Black and White Awning Stripe Bench Cushions, Black and White Bench Cushions, Metamorphosis Monday, Porch Bench Cushions, Porch Decor, Porch Makeover

They Arrived & They’re As Nice & Well-Crafted As Expected

June 16, 2023 by Susan 6 Comments

Happy Fri-yay! The weekend is officially here! I hope you have a fun, relaxing one planned. I badly need to get out in the yard and do some weeding, although it may be way too hot for that this weekend. A few weeks ago, I put together a post with some gift ideas for Father's Day. You may remember in that post I shared a really nice waxed canvas tote from L.L. Bean. Of course, this bag would be great for … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds Tagged With: Camping Tote, Everyday Tote, Grocery Tote, L.L. Bean Tote, Travel Tote, Waxed Canvas Tote

Swimming With The Crabs In This Blue, White & Chartreuse Table Setting

June 15, 2023 by Susan 35 Comments

Welcome to the 768th Tablescape Thursday! Lately, I've been challenging myself to use some of my older dinnerware pieces, so yesterday I dug way back in the cabinets and pulled out some plates and glasses that I haven't thought about in a long, long time. It's always fun to see if I can incorporate some of the things I've purchased recently with things I've had for many … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Beachy Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Beach Themed Tablescape, Beachy Table Setting, Between Naps on the Porch, Blue & White Table Setting, Crab Plates, Fish Wine Glasses, Nautical-Thememd Table Setting, Palm Tree Flatware, Tablescape Thursday

A Refreshing Summer Drink, Super Useful Yeti Addition & 50% Off Sale-On-Sale

June 13, 2023 by Susan 5 Comments

Recently, I saw a drink recipe online that sounded really good, but I changed it up a bit with the addition of another ingredient that I think makes it tastes and look even better. This drink is so yummy, it feels like you're having a fancy cocktail when it's really just a refreshing summer drink. Below are the ingredients although it's very easy to change them up for variety, so feel free to experiment … [Read more...]

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

Finally Did It–Had The Roof Cleaned! What Do You Think?

June 12, 2023 by Susan 32 Comments

Welcome to the 750th Metamorphosis Monday! Two years ago, in June 2021, I shared a post where I mentioned I had noticed the roof on my home was looking kinda dirty. In this older 2012 photo, here's how the roof looked when it was still relatively new. It was around 5 years old at that time. Looking back at older photos like the one below, I can see now that over the years a bit of staining … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, DIY Repairs and Fixes, Gardening & Birding Tagged With: Algae on Roofs, Cleaning a Roof, Metamorphosis Monday, Roof Cleaning

My May Favorites, Including Stylish & Very Affordable Polarized Sunglasses

June 10, 2023 by Susan 23 Comments

Happy Weekend! I have so many great May favorites to share with you today! I've been looking forward to doing this post all this month! If you were one of the folks who commented that you wanted to purchase the cabinet that I've been buying to use here in the garage... ...and now in my basement, they are back in stock again. I just got a third one for the basement on Thursday and put it … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, Monthly Favorites

Tabletop Shopping, A Yeti Mini-Drama, & More Renovations And Updates

June 8, 2023 by Susan 19 Comments

Welcome to the 767th Tablescape Thursday! The last few days have been crazy busy with workmen here almost every day. I've been working on those last bits and pieces that I need to get done in the garage and basement before moving on to focusing on bathroom renovations. Also, I finally got up the nerve to get the roof washed/cleaned. Looking forward to sharing some of the updates that have been taking place … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Tabletop Shopping, Yeti Canopy Green, Yeti Mini-Drama, Yeti Rescue Red, Yeti Tundra Haul Cooler

Easy Solution For “Fixing” & Hiding Beige Outlets In A Room With White Trim

June 5, 2023 by Susan 28 Comments

Welcome to the 749th Metamorphosis Monday! Last year I had the "almost finished" side of the basement painted. The walls were painted in Benjamin Moore White Dove and the trim was painted in Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace. Chantilly Lace is a bright white with an LRV of 92.2. Though this basement is a daylight basement with 5 good-size windows and two French doors, I wanted to keep the room … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, DIY Decorating, DIY Repairs and Fixes, Lighting

I’ve Been Summer Party Shopping & I Caught Some Great Deals!

June 3, 2023 by Susan 23 Comments

Last May, a couple of weeks before their birthdays that fall just 6 days apart, I bought my son and daughter-in-law this awesome frozen drink maker. We had a blast making drinks with it during the time I was visiting. I've made frozen smoothies for my grandsons with it on subsequent visits. Yesterday, I stopped by Old Time Pottery on the way back home from another errand and found the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds Tagged With: Jimmy Buffett Margarita Maker, Margarita Glasses, Margarita Machine, Yeti Rescue Red Cooler, Yeti Tundra Haul Cooler

14 Beautiful, Whimsical Flatware Designs & A Strategy For Acquiring Them All! ;)

June 1, 2023 by Susan 20 Comments

Welcome to the 766th Tablescape Thursday! Have you ever done an online search for unique flatware? Every so often I do that just to see what fun, whimsical flatware has been created. I love a beautiful elegant table setting, but my favorite tables are the fun ones, those tables that make you smile or feel a bit like a kid again. Sometimes it's the flatware that can really bring a bit of magic or fun to a … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fall Tablescapes, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday, Winter Tablescapes Tagged With: Bamboo Flatware, Beach-themed Flatware, Black Flatware, Palm Tree Flatware, Shark Flatware, Shell Flatware, Tablescape Thursday, Turtle Flatware, Whimsical Flatware

Some Fun Ideas for Summer: Crafts and Decor Ideas

May 31, 2023 by Susan 10 Comments

Recently someone asked in the comments about this 3-tiered planter pictured here on the potting bench that I painted in the color, Dahlia. It made me realize that I really should occasionally link back to some of the hundreds of posts I've written over the past 15 years because many are still relevant. This post took me forever to put together this morning because I found myself rereading them all again and … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY Crafts & Sewing, DIY Decor Knock-offs, DIY Decorating, Seasonal Decor Tagged With: Craft Ideas, Decor Ideas

So…How Do You Feel About Purple?

May 29, 2023 by Susan 58 Comments

Welcome to the 748th Metamorphosis Monday! Hope you had a restful Memorial Day weekend and are enjoying some additional time off today. When I last shared the basement storage/work room, the painting was mostly finished except for the windows and some areas that needed a bit of touch-up. Before I share how it looks now, here's a photo of where we started. This side of the basement was functional for storage … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Basement/Terrace Level, Before & After, DIY Organization and Storage Tagged With: Basement Renovation, Epoxy Flooring, Freezer Room, New Lighting, Purple Workbench, Storage Ideas, Updated Basement Storage Room

3 Special Father’s Day Gift Ideas

May 27, 2023 by Susan 4 Comments

I just ordered a gift for my son, but not sure when I'll give it to him. He has a birthday coming up, but the special coffee maker I gave him recently was really an early B'day present. My friend, Susan, shared a wonderful tote this morning that she had just purchased. While shopping the website I came across another tote (on sale for 10% off) that I thought would be great for the bi-annual … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds Tagged With: Birthday Gift Ideas, Father's Day, Father's Day Gift, Father's Day Gift Ideas

The Tablecloth Really Changes Everything

May 25, 2023 by Susan 53 Comments

Welcome to the 765th Tablescape Thursday! How is your week going? It's been a busy one here. The painter finished painting the storage room yesterday, and on Tuesday, I started priming/painting the workbench in this room. I hope to finish it today or tomorrow. Look forward to sharing the finished space on Monday! We are back out on the porch for this week's Tablescape Thursday. The weather … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Beachy Tablescapes, Seasonal Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Beach Themed Table Setting, Beachy Table, Nautical Table Setting, Tablescape Thursday

So Close Now–Almost Done!

May 22, 2023 by Susan 20 Comments

Welcome to the 747th Metamorphosis Monday! The basement storage room is so close to being finished now. When I last shared this space, this is how it looked. Here's a quick update on where things are as of this morning. Baseboard was installed and the walls and baseboard have been painted. I went with Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace for the walls and the trim--semi-gloss for the trim and … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Basement/Terrace Level, Before & After Tagged With: Basement Makeover, Basement Renovation, Basement Storage Room, Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace, Metamorphosis Monday, Terrace Level Renovation

April Favorites, A Chairside Table I Really Want For My Bedroom + 2 Handbags I’m Eyeing For Summer

May 20, 2023 by Susan

Happy Weekend! The new storage cabinet arrived yesterday. It's downstairs in the basement, awaiting its assembly. I have to admit, I'm a tad nervous after what happened last time I put one together. I just have to remind myself that was a fluke because I didn't have any issues all the other times I've put this cabinet together. Looking forward to sharing some updates with you on Monday! I'm … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds Tagged With: Chairside Table, Iconic Perfumes, Monthly Favorites, Wicker Handbags

2 Tables That Are A Work In Progress & I’m A Little Distracted This Week

May 18, 2023 by Susan 26 Comments

Welcome to the 764th Tablescape Thursday! I've been working on a table the last couple of weeks, but I'm having trouble finding the right salad plates. These adorable flamingo napkins are my inspiration, but when shopping for flamingo-themed salad plates in the right color, I'm only finding the melamine version. I may end up having to buy those since that seems to be all that's available. Here's a little … [Read more...]

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

I Bought A Forever Dress Last Night + A Great Double Sale!

May 16, 2023 by Susan 14 Comments

This is a bold statement since it hasn't even arrived yet, but I think I purchased a "forever" dress last night. I've been searching for a long time for an all-cotton or cotton/linen blend maxi dress for summer. I didn't want a sundress style, wanted it to have sleeves since I sunburn so easily. It was love at first sight when I came across this dress last night. I love that it's a blend of cotton and … [Read more...]

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

When Things Go Sideways–Literally! Never Had This Happen Before!

May 15, 2023 by Susan 33 Comments

Welcome to the 746th Metamorphosis Monday! Happy Monday! I hope you had a fabulous weekend! Mine was great except for one mind-numbing incident. lol So you know how I've put together a gazillion of these white storage cabinets for use here in the garage? I have 9 here in the garage--five along the side wall and four on the front wall. I decided to order two for the basement storage room … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Basement/Terrace Level, Before & After, DIY Organization and Storage Tagged With: Basement, Metamorphosis Monday, Organization, Storage Cabinets, Storage Room

Porch Dining: A Spring-Summer Table Setting Out On The Porch

May 11, 2023 by Susan 17 Comments

Welcome to the 763rd Tablescape Thursday! It's been so warm here this week and I am loving it! I couldn't resist a sunny, happy table out here on the porch. I hope you are seeing warmer temps, too! This has been a busy few days with an electrician here adding new lighting to the basement, crawl-space storage room, and the upstairs hallway. If you missed those posts, click … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: spring table setting, Summer Table Setting, Sunflowers, Tablescape Thursday

New Lighting For The Upstairs Hall & This Lighting Has A Surprise, Unique Feature

May 9, 2023 by Susan 14 Comments

When I had an electrician here on Friday to add recessed lighting to the storage/utility room in the basement, I also had him change out the three lights in my upstairs hallway to recessed lighting, recessed lighting with a special, built-in feature. This was the lighting that was in the long, upstairs hallway. Two of the three lights are visible in this previous photo from when I was … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Lighting, Upstairs Hall Tagged With: Before and After, Hallway Lighting, Lighting, Lighting Renovation, Lighting Updates, Upstairs Hall

Wow! What a Difference New Lighting Can Make–The Basement Is Almost Done Now

May 8, 2023 by Susan 33 Comments

Welcome to the 745th Metamorphosis Monday! One week ago I shared an update on the storage/workroom part of my basement. I had just had flooring installed...the same type of epoxy flooring seen here in the garage. I was surprised and a little disappointed when I saw how it looked here in the basement. It seemed a lot darker in this room than it had in the garage. Ummm. I … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Basement/Terrace Level, Before & After Tagged With: Basement Renovation, Basement Storage Room, Basement Transformation, Metamorphosis Monday

The Perfect Mother’s Day Sale & A Special Spring-Summer Dress

May 6, 2023 by Susan 11 Comments

Time to spoil yourself for summer--Talbots is having a wonderful Mother's Day Sale and I found sooo many cute things! I'm in love with this skirt! It reminds me so much of my trip to Positano, Italy. It makes me want to travel there right now! Here's a close up this beautiful skirt...love! It's on sale 40% off with the code MOM at checkout here: Beautiful Skirt. I've always … [Read more...]

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

3 Special Table Settings Featuring Beautiful Vintage Tablecloths!

May 4, 2023 by Susan 8 Comments

Welcome to the 762nd Tablescape Thursday! Oh my gosh, it's been a wild week around here! I had planned to complete the work on the unfinished part of my basement at a gradual pace over the next couple of months, but I got a bee in my bonnet and decided to go full-steam ahead. I'm eager to get my workbench and freezer moved back into the room as soon as possible, so that means going ahead and scheduling to … [Read more...]

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

Such a Big Improvement–Love This Spice Rack Organizer!

May 2, 2023 by Susan 31 Comments

My spice organization left a lot to be desired. The only place I have near my stove to store spices is inside this relatively narrow cabinet next to the stove. To try and make it more functional, I have a lot of my spices on a little turntable. It's not a great system because when I need a particular spice, I have to spin it around and around searching for the one that I need. Often, the smaller spice … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, DIY Organization and Storage, Kitchen & Breakfast Area Tagged With: Organization, Spice Organizer, Spice Rack

How The Epoxy Flooring In The Basement Turned Out & Lighting Is Next!

May 1, 2023 by Susan 34 Comments

Welcome to the 744th Metamorphosis Monday! The flooring in the unfinished area of the basement is done and it looks a bit different from how I had imagined it would look. You may remember this is how it looked before its makeover. A previous owner of my home had it painted white at some point. It was pretty scraped up and had some impossible-to-remove stains, so I decided to give it the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Basement/Terrace Level, Before & After Tagged With: Basement Storage Room, Before and After, Epoxy Flooring, Metamorphosis Monday, Terrace Level

What Do You Think About This Shelving & A Sneak Peak At The New Flooring

April 29, 2023 by Susan 25 Comments

Happy Weekend! I hope you are having a great one! Just wanted to pop in with a brief update. The guys from Granite Garage just finished up with the flooring in the unfinished part of the basement today. You may remember the floor in that part of the basement looked like this. (This photo was taken before I had the drywall added.) A previous homeowner apparently had it painted at one time. … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Basement/Terrace Level, Before & After Tagged With: Basement Makeover, Basement Shelving, Unfinished Basement Room

Did The Tables Inspire The Cakes, Or Did The Cakes Inspire The Tables?

April 27, 2023 by Susan 28 Comments

Welcome to the 761st Tablescape Thursday! Recently Warren sent me an email sharing a dilemma he found himself in--his wife had placed him on a dish ban. ;) I'll let Warren explain below. "Recently, I had a problem. I love to create colorful, sometimes whimsical but also functional tablescapes for our frequent dinner parties, however, there are only so many different tablescapes one can set from a limited … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Gorgeous Cakes, Tablescape Thursday! Cake Decorating, The Art of Baking

A Wee Bit Of Luxury, These Make A Beautiful Gift For Mother’s Day

April 26, 2023 by Susan 11 Comments

I purchased a new lipstick refill for a case I bought recently and it arrived today. As I admired the color, I thought about how a beautiful lipstick case would make a great Mother's Day gift, especially with a special engraving inside. Quite a few years back, I fell in love with the bow-shaped lipstick cases from House of Sillage and ended up purchasing quite a few as I caught them on sale over the next … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds Tagged With: Beauty Products, Dior, Gift Ideas, Guerlain, House of Sillage, Lipstick, Lipstick Cases, Luxury Beauty, Luxury Lipsticks

How The Solar Fountain Is Working & An Exciting Basement Update Coming Soon

April 24, 2023 by Susan 21 Comments

Welcome to the 743rd Metamorphosis Monday! A few days ago I shared an addition I had purchased for the heated bird bath I keep out year around on my deck. I had ordered a solar fountain for the bird bath. This bird bath see a lot of visitors throughout the day so I thought it would be something the birds would enjoy. The solar fountain arrived yesterday and I pretty quickly … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Basement/Terrace Level, Before & After, Gardening & Birding Tagged With: Basement Flooring, Birdbath Fountain, Epoxy Flooring, Metamorphosis Monday

My March Favorites + A New Purchase That’s Arriving Today

April 22, 2023 by Susan 10 Comments

Happy Weekend! Hope you are having a great one! I didn't want to let April get totally gone without sharing my favorites from last month. Sooo, ya know how Legos can be a bit pricey...when I was shopping for something fun for my grandsons for spring/Easter, I came across this adorable Lego bunny set and was surprised by how reasonably it was priced. This set actually makes into three different animals. I … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, Monthly Favorites Tagged With: Favorite Finds, Gift Ideas, Monthly Favorites

Dining Seaside: A Beachy, Nautical-Themed Tablescape & 2 Adorable Shorebirds

April 20, 2023 by Susan 31 Comments

Welcome to the 760th Tablescape Thursday! It was in the 70s yesterday so I couldn't resist setting a table here on the porch. There was a fresh, light layer of pollen on the surface of the table that had to be cleaned away first. Be glad when pollen season is over. I think we're on the tail end of it now. I started out with plans to use these sunflower napkins I shared recently. In the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Beachy Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Aqua-blue Table Setting, Beach Dinnerware, Beach Themed Table Setting, Nautical Napkins, Shell Dinnerware, Shorebirds, Tablescape Thursday

An Appliance Slider Tray For My Kitchen, Love How It Works!

April 17, 2023 by Susan 32 Comments

Welcome to the 742nd Metamorphosis Monday! How was your weekend? Hope it was a great one! Last Monday I shared a full, down-to-the-studs kitchen renovation my son and daughter-in-law just recently completed in their home. If you missed that post, you'll find it here: This 1970s Kitchen Just Got a Dramatic, Down-to-the-Studs Renovation. As part of a yay-we-have-a-new-kitchen and early, joint … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, Kitchen & Breakfast Area Tagged With: Appliance Tray, Coffee Maker Sliding Tray, Handy Kitchen Gadget, KitchenAid Mixer Sliding Tray, Metamorphosis Monday, Sliding Appliance Tray

Successful Bird Rescue & Finally Finding That Perfect Beachy, Aqua-Blue Top

April 15, 2023 by Susan 27 Comments

Oh my goodness, what a day! I spent almost two hours today rescuing a baby Wren that somehow managed to find his way into my chimney/fireplace. That rarely happens, like once every 10 years. Instead of going out the wide open door onto the porch, a door he hopped right by several times, he kept hopping behind various furniture pieces. He was so cute talking to his Mom who was chirping for him outside. When … [Read more...]

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

Ma Maison, My Favorite Dinnerware For Porch Dining

April 13, 2023 by Susan 16 Comments

Welcome to the 759th Tablescape Thursday! It's been ages since I've flown anywhere, so a long time since I've been through the Atlanta Airport. Instead of taking the Plane Train, I decided to walk to the baggage claim/pickup area and was surprised to come across this beautiful scene! I felt like I was in a tropical forest. I wish more of the ceilings throughout the airport were done this … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Between Naps on the Porch, Dario Farrucci, Ma Maison, Screened Porch, Tablescape Thursday

Pull-out Appliance Tray/Stand, Protects Kitchen Cabinets & Undercabinet Lighting

April 12, 2023 by Susan 18 Comments

Thanks so much for all the lovely comments left on Monday's post where I shared a dramatic, long-awaited kitchen renovation my son and daughter-in-law just completed in their home. Just as their renovation was coming to a close, I came across an awesome coffee maker that I was pretty sure they would love, especially my son who has been literally searching for years for the perfect coffee maker. I am … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds Tagged With: Appliance Stand, Appliance Tray, Coffee Lovers, DeLonghi Coffee Maker, Gift Ideas, Kitchen Gadgets, Pull-out Appliance Stand, Pull-out Appliance Tray, True Brew Coffee Maker

This 1970s Kitchen Just Got a Dramatic, Down-to-the-Studs, Beautiful Renovation!

April 10, 2023 by Susan 39 Comments

Welcome to the 741st Metamorphosis Monday! If you love a dramatic Before and After, you're going to love today's reveal! My son and daughter-in-law live in an older neighborhood where many of the homes were built in the early 1900s. I think their home was built in the early 1920s, if I'm remembering correctly. The previous owners did a kitchen update at some point, we're guessing in the 1970s based on … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Historic Homes

A Ray of Sunshine On A Beautiful Spring Day!

April 6, 2023 by Susan 21 Comments

Welcome to the 758th Tablescape Thursday! I'm currently visiting family and it has turned cold again! I jokingly told my son and DIL that their weather hates me because it was in the 70s just before I arrived and goes back up to the 70s the day after I leave. Hope you are seeing some sunshine and warmer temps where you live! Recently I heard from Norma, who lives in the south of France. Norma said, "I am … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Easter Crafts, Easter Decorating, Easter Table Settings, Easter Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Bunny China, Bunny Dinnerware, Easter table setting, spring tablescape, Tablescape Thursday, Yellow Table Setting

A Spring Table Setting With The Most Adorable Bunny-Themed Dinnerware

April 4, 2023 by Susan 25 Comments

I have a wonderful spring table setting to share with you today! Brenda, a lovely BNOTP reader, set a beautiful table for Easter and I found myself wanting to collect everything I saw on her table. lol I know you're going to love it as much as I do! In this photo, we get a glimpse of the dinnerware Brenda chose for her table--do you see the adorable bunny … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Easter Table Settings, Easter Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes Tagged With: Bunny China, Bunny Plates, Bunny-Themed Dinnerware, Easter table setting, spring table setting

2 Before And Afters: 1 For Plant Lovers And 1 For The Puzzlers

April 3, 2023 by Susan 27 Comments

Welcome to the 740th Metamorphosis Monday! How was your weekend? I hope it was great! I have two little updates to share for this week's Met Monday. You may remember last winter, I attempted to winter over the geraniums I usually have out on one of my decks during the spring/summer instead of just letting them freeze and purchasing more the next spring. Last year was so successful, I decided to try it … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Puzzles Tagged With: Before and After, Between Naps on the Porch, Puzzle Board, Puzzles

My Go-To Style For Easy Summer Outfits

April 1, 2023 by Susan 8 Comments

A few days ago I purchased two more pairs of white jeggings from Talbots. I really love their jeggings because they don't fit super snug, they are a bit more of a relaxed jegging fit. They have a good sale going on right now: Buy 1, get 1 50% off, so I purchased two more pairs here: Regular Fit White Jeggings. If your waist is a good bit smaller as compared to your hips, I really recommend … [Read more...]

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

Beautiful Tables–So Much Inspiration From Aris

March 30, 2023 by Susan 15 Comments

Welcome to the 757th Tablescape Thursday! Aris, a lovely BNOTP reader, enjoys entertaining. She has a wonderful group of friends who love gathering for her fabulous dinner parties! Recently, I heard from Aris and she wrote: Dear Susan, I thoroughly enjoy your tablescapes blogging, but I don’t do any social media myself. I thought you might enjoy seeing a bit of what I’ve done with inspiration from you and … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Tablescape Thursday

Still Dreaming About A Mountain-Top Home, Where Do You See Your Dream Home?

March 28, 2023 by Susan 37 Comments

If you could live in any place in the world, where would that be and why? A few months back I mentioned how I'd love to live in the mountains. I've been giving that a lot of thought over the past year and I think I'd love to live so high up that when I looked out the windows or stood on my deck, I would find myself surrounded by clouds. Okay, maybe not all the time since it would be nice to have beautiful, … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Inspire