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 56 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 the 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...]

Filed Under: Christmas Holiday Home, Christmas Table Settings, Christmas Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: , , ,

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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 48 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 30 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, I 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 … [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 74 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 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 25 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 71 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 like the one I shared in this post: Foiling a Pickpocket Thief in the Khan Al-Khali Bazaar in Cairo. 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 … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Africa, Egypt, Travel Tagged With: , , , ,

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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...]

Filed Under: Halloween Holiday Home, Halloween Table Settings, Halloween Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: , ,

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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 39 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 25 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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The Giza Plateau & Last Remaining Member of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World

October 20, 2018 by 46 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 & Travel-Themed Toothpaste

October 12, 2018 by 56 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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Protect Your Suitcase from Scratches with a Pretty Luggage Cover

October 8, 2018 by 51 Comments

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

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5 Creative Tablescapes for Halloween and Fall

October 4, 2018 by 13 Comments

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

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

October 3, 2018 by 17 Comments

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

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

September 29, 2018 by 51 Comments

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

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Tablescape Thursday: A Halloween Setting by Candlelight

September 27, 2018 by 42 Comments

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

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

September 26, 2018 by 14 Comments

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

Filed Under: Inspire

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

September 24, 2018 by 41 Comments

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

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

September 22, 2018 by 36 Comments

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

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

September 20, 2018 by 56 Comments

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

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12 Cleaning Products I Would Never Want To Be Without

September 18, 2018 by 49 Comments

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

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

September 17, 2018 by 74 Comments

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

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A New Autumn Wreath for the Front Door

September 14, 2018 by 50 Comments

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

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French Cottage Becomes a Greek Taverna

September 13, 2018 by 15 Comments

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

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

September 11, 2018 by 64 Comments

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

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A Fun Lighting Update for My Home Office

September 8, 2018 by 49 Comments

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

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

September 6, 2018 by 27 Comments

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

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

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5 Ways To Save Big For Travel Abroad

September 5, 2018 by 33 Comments

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

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

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Bracelet Storage Idea & A Wicker Bag Purchase

September 4, 2018 by 21 Comments

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

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

September 3, 2018 by 19 Comments

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

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Fall Dinnerware Shopping & Beautiful Embossed White Chargers On Sale

August 30, 2018 by 23 Comments

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

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

August 28, 2018 by 36 Comments

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

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

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Celebrating Our 500th Metamorphosis Monday!

August 27, 2018 by 82 Comments

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

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The Easy Way to Dry or Preserve Limelight Hydrangea Blossoms

August 25, 2018 by 25 Comments

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

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

August 23, 2018 by 28 Comments

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

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

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

August 22, 2018 by 36 Comments

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

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

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

August 20, 2018 by 46 Comments

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

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The End-of-Summer Sales are Awesome Right Now

August 18, 2018 by 16 Comments

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

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5 Creative Tables for Summer

August 16, 2018 by 15 Comments

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

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Tour the Museum of Style Icons in Ireland, Part II

August 15, 2018 by 32 Comments

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

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A Visit to the Newbridge Museum of Style Icons

August 13, 2018 by 33 Comments

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

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

August 9, 2018 by 50 Comments

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

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

August 7, 2018 by 30 Comments

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

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

August 6, 2018 by 37 Comments

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

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Change Can Be So Hard Sometimes

August 3, 2018 by 113 Comments

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

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Making My Own Sunshine for This Week’s Tablescape Thursday

August 2, 2018 by 57 Comments

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

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

July 31, 2018 by 31 Comments

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

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Living the Life of Reilly and A Luxurious Gift Idea

July 28, 2018 by 34 Comments

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

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Sea Life Table Setting in Beautiful Colors of Blue and Coral

July 26, 2018 by 19 Comments

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

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Hang a Little Painting Where It Will Surprise and Delight

July 25, 2018 by 34 Comments

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

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Wonder If Goldilocks Ever Shopped for a Handbag Organizer

July 23, 2018 by 29 Comments

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

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

July 21, 2018 by 46 Comments

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

Filed Under: Christmas Gift Ideas, Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods Tagged With: , , ,

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Summer Garden Party Table Setting with a Limelight Hydrangea Centerpiece

July 19, 2018 by 57 Comments

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

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Genius Ideas To Make Travel A Lot Easier

July 16, 2018 by 21 Comments

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

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Summer Dresses: Flowing and Oh, So Feminine!

July 14, 2018 by 20 Comments

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

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

July 12, 2018 by 12 Comments

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

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

July 11, 2018 by 66 Comments

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

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A Few Porch Updates & A Garden Seat Makeover

July 9, 2018 by 46 Comments

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

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Evil Eye Bracelets: Whimsical & Great for Stacking

July 6, 2018 by 27 Comments

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

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Festive Table Setting for a 4th of July Patriotic Celebration

July 5, 2018 by 17 Comments

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

Filed Under: Independence Day Holiday Home, Independence Day Table Settings, Independence Day Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: , , , , , ,

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

July 2, 2018 by 46 Comments

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

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Decorate a Porch for the 4th of July!

June 30, 2018 by 27 Comments

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

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

June 28, 2018 by 47 Comments

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

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

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