In The BNOTP Library: English Country, Living in England’s Private Houses

With the return of Downton Abbey, I have English Country decorating and design on the mind. Author, Caroline Seebohm is taking us inside beautiful English Country homes you would normally never get to see.   In the BNOTP Library: English Country Author: Caroline Seebohm Hardcover: 288 pages Size: 10.5 x 10.2 x 1.2 3 Things I Like About This Book: I'm not sure why the description … [Read more...]


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Ready For Spring Planting

Welcome to the 312th Metamorphosis Monday! Thanks so much for all the comments left on my last post. I read each one, not just once, but several times. Your prayers, encouragement and individual stories have been a true blessing and they have brought me much comfort over the last few days. So many of you well-know the heartache of losing someone very close to you. I'll be returning to that post to read … [Read more...]


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Sisters

When I decided to start a blog back in August 2008, my biggest supporter was my sister, Glenda. Being 10 years older, she has always watched out for me...the best big sister ever.   Since our mother (pictured below) was ill for most of my life starting when I was very young, Glenda took on way more than the usual big sister's share of responsibility caring for me as I was growing … [Read more...]


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The Holiday: Graham’s Charming Mill House

Four years ago I shared a tour of the adorable English cottage featured in the movie, The Holiday, starring Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude Law and Jack Black.   Rosehill Cottage stole the hearts of everyone who saw the movie. If you missed that tour, you'll find it here: Tour Rosehill Cottage from the movie, The Holiday   Recently, a reader of BNOTP left this comment on The … [Read more...]


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It’s Flag City Around Here!

Welcome to the 311th Metamorphosis Monday! If you are participating in Met Monday (a blog party that's all about Before and Afters) please don't forget to include a link in your post back to today's party so your readers will find the other participants who have also linked up. Please do not link up a post you've just previously linked up in the last 2-3 weeks since readers will have already seen that post. … [Read more...]


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Make A Snowman Spice Cake

Recently while shopping in Williams-Sonoma, I came across a Nordic Ware snowman cake pan. It was on sale, greatly reduced from $39.95 to $10.39 so I couldn't resist trying my hand at making this cute cake. Update: You can still find this pan here: Snowman Cake Pan   The cake ended up being a centerpiece for yesterday's winter table setting seen in this post: Winter Table Setting With Snowman … [Read more...]


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A Winter Tablescape With Snowman Spice Cake Centerpiece

Welcome to the 330th Tablescape Thursday! My tablescape today is a winter themed table setting with a very special centerpiece. It's so special that it's practically invisible. What? You don't see it? It's right there--on the pedestal in the center of the table. ;) I knew by the time the centerpiece I planned to use was ready, it would already be getting dark out. Since table settings look so much … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: The Victorian Country House by Mark Girouard

Yesterday we toured Highclere Castle, the Victorian country house where the popular British drama, Downton Abbey is filmed each year. If you have an interest in learning more about Victorian country houses like Highclere, today's book is a good one to consider. You can tell the author has done his research.   In the BNOTP Library: The Victorian Country House Author: Mark Girouard Hardcover: … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: Martha’s Vineyard Gardens and Houses

After touring HGTV's 2015 Dream Home on Martha's Vineyard, I knew exactly which book I wanted to share today from my decor/gardening library.   In the BNOTP Library: Martha's Vineyard Gardens and Houses Author: Taylor Lewis, Catherine Fallin Hardcover: 277 pages   3 Things I Like About This Book: Gorgeous pictures of the homes and gardens on Martha's Vineyard, all taken … [Read more...]


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An After-Christmas-Sale Haul

Well, "haul" may be a slight exaggeration. It's more like a mini-haul. Have you done in after-Christmas shopping? I haven't been in the mood, probably due to being sick. Thankfully, I'm all better now! It's 63 degrees here today, sunny and gorgeous! I decided to stop by the Williams-Sonoma that's a couple miles from my home to see what's shaking. In the past I've found some amazing deals there after the … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: Laying The Elegant Table

The book I'm sharing today is for anyone who has an appreciation or love for all things tabletop. A drool-worthy book if ever there was one!   In the BNOTP Library: Laying The Elegant Table: China, Faience, Porcelain, Majolica, Glassware, Flatware, Tureens, Platters, Trays, Centerpieces, Tea Sets Author: Ines Heugel Hardcover: 184 pages   This is one of those rare books that … [Read more...]


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Warming Up The New Year With A Woodland Table Setting

Welcome to the 329th Tablescape Thursday! Have you ever gotten a surprise call from a friend who was in town and suddenly realized you were going to have company for dinner? When that happened to Laura, instead of panicking like I may have :) she seized the opportunity to put together a warm and inviting Woodland themed table setting. Laura is definitely quick on her feet because the table she created is … [Read more...]


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A “Hair Of The Dog” New Year’s Day Party

This morning I shared a book from my decor library that offers us a peek into some pretty amazing parties held in private homes in New York. I must have parties on the brain since I've even been dreaming about them. Are you attending any New Year's parties this year? Will you be hosting one? I'm kind of glad I didn't plan one this year since I've come down with a nasty bug or something after all my … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: New York Parties: Private Views

It's almost party time! Hard to believe 2014 is about to be a thing of the past. Have you been invited to any New Year's parties this year? Will you be hosting one yourself?   In the BNOTP Library: New York Parties: Private Views Author: Jamee Gregory Hardcover: 208 pages   3 Things I Like About This Book: The lavish parties featured in this book are wonderful and worth … [Read more...]


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Beautiful Farmhouse Kitchen Renovation

Welcome to the 309th Metamorphosis Monday! How was your holiday? Did you spend it with family? Did Santa bring you a new toy or two? :) I was with family in New Hampshire for the week so there was a fair amount of time spent in airports, on airplanes and in rental cars on the way there and back. The in-between part with family was wonderful, though.   I loved my time in New Hampshire. … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: Rooms To Inspire By The Sea

After touring such a great beach house yesterday, I couldn't resist sharing a wonderful book filled with inspiration for decorating a seaside home.   In the BNOTP Library: Rooms to Inspire by the Sea Author: Annie Kelly Hardcover: 240 pages   Be sure and check out the "preview" of this book at Amazon. It's a good preview and really gives you a good feel for this book. 3 … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: California Cottages

Yesterday we toured a wonderful California home with tons of cottage style. The book I'm sharing today is all about cottage living in California, covering mountain cottages to beach cottages and everything in between.   In the BNOTP Library: California Cottages: Interior Design, Architecture, and Style Author: Diane Dorrans Saeks Hardcover: 176 pages   3 Things I Like About … [Read more...]


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5 New Year’s Party Ideas

Welcome to the 327th Tablescape Thursday! Please Read: Next week, Tablescape Thursday falls on Christmas Day. I won't be able to post a table setting that day, but I will put InLinkz up on Wednesday evening in case anyone has a table setting they would like to link up. So stop by and link up your table if you have the time. I'm sure there will be plenty of folks stopping by who would love to see what … [Read more...]


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Tour Beautiful Westview, A Classic Greek Revival Designed For Today

Last night as I was working on this post, I kept thinking, "I know this house!" You know that feeling when you see someone in passing and you just know you've met them before. It nags and nags at you all day, until finally it dawns on where you first met. This morning as I continued working on this post, I decided to watch the video at the site where I found all the wonderful pictures I'm sharing today. … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: The Great American House

Later today I'll be taking you on a tour of a beautiful "new" old house at Between Naps On The Porch. As I was working on that post last night, I kept thinking the house looked so familiar. Then I realized why; it's a home that's been featured in one of my favorite books!   In the BNOTP Library: The Great American House: Tradition for the Way We Live Now Author: Gil Schafer III Hardcover: … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: Savannah Style

A visit to Savannah is a unique experience. It's one of my favorite places to visit for the architecture, the beautiful homes and gardens, the historic squares and for Savannah's rich and sometimes haunting history.   In the BNOTP Library: Savannah Style: Mystery and Manners Author: Susan Sully Hardcover: 208 pages   I love the title of this book, Savannah Style: Mystery and … [Read more...]


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It’s All In The Details

Welcome to the 307th Metamorphosis Monday! Greetings! How was your weekend? Do anything fun? I finished up a bit of my Christmas shopping and was happy to get that done. So, you know how I've been working on curing my floppy-flange problem? lol That sounds really weird, doesn't it? For anyone who missed that post, I've been working on improving the appearance of the pillows for my winter bedding. I … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: Martha Stewart’s Christmas

Since we're in the Christmas season, I've been sharing a lot of my favorite Christmas-themed books. I can't let the season get by without sharing one of my favorites by Martha Stewart. I've had the paperback version for many years. Recently I noticed they have tons of the hardback version for just a penny on Amazon, so today I ordered it in hardback. I always prefer a hardback copy when I can get it, … [Read more...]


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Decorating The Porch For Christmas

One of my favorite places to decorate for Christmas is the front porch. It's the first "room" friends and family see when visiting , and at Christmastime it's so much fun to make it feel extra special and inviting.   When decorating, be it inside or out, I always love a mix of fresh greenery and faux. Fresh greenery gives you the scent while faux gives you the look you want while saving you … [Read more...]


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Christmas Tablescape With A Fresh Magnolia and Nandina Berry Centerpiece

Welcome to the 326th Tablescape Thursday! How can it be December 11th already? Wow, this month is really flying by! I'm sharing a fun little Christmas table setting this week for Tablescape Thursday.     We're in the breakfast room since it's way too cold out for dining on the porch.   I'm still loving all things plaid so I chose tartan dishware for this week's … [Read more...]


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Dreaming Of A White Christmas

Do you sometimes wish you had 10 homes to decorate? lol Okay, not really, but every now and then I do see something that makes my heart skip a beat and has me dreaming and thinking, what if? I love color and I know I wouldn't be happy if I wasn't surrounded by it in my home, especially at Christmastime. But oh my goodness, this home is so soft and beautiful, it does have me dreaming of decorating all in … [Read more...]


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Inside “A Christmas Story” Movie Museum

This past summer while visiting family in Ohio, I took a day trip over to Cleveland to visit the home featured in the iconic Christmas move, A Christmas Story. I shared pictures of the exterior and interior over a series of posts that can all be found linked here:  A Christmas Story  Movie House Tour, Parts I-IV See the triple window there, just above the porch?   When you're standing in … [Read more...]


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A Summer House On A Christmas Home Tour

Welcome to the 306th Metamorphosis Monday! How was your weekend? Go on any Christmas home tours? Did you do a little Christmas decorating? I finished decorating the front porch and I'm looking forward to sharing that soon. This weekend I attended the Marietta Pilgrimage and though pictures weren't allowed inside the homes, I have a few to share of some of the outside spaces that were transformed for … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: Southern Christmas

Though the book I'm sharing today is filled with beautiful pictures and wonderful scenes of Christmas, it's also jam-packed with information and the history of why we decorate the way we do, all the way from Maryland down to the most southern states. If you love an old fashioned Christmas filled with tradition, you'll love this book.   In the BNOTP Library: Emyl Jenkins' Southern … [Read more...]


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The Imperial Silver & Porcelain Collection Museum in The Hofburg Palace

Welcome to the 325th Tablescape Thursday! We're going to Europe this week, to Vienna, Austria thanks to Elena, who generously shared pictures from her trip there. While in Vienna, Elena had the opportunity to tour the Hofburg Imperial Palace where Emperor Franz Joseph and his wife Elisabeth lived during the period of the Habsburg Empire. On a visit to the palace, Elena was able to tour the museum that … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: Bedrooms

Pssst: If you would like to be notified of new "In The BNOTP Library" posts, subscribe to have updates delivered to your Inbox via the gray subscribe box at the end of this post. Often when I find a book I love, I search on Amazon to see if the author has written other books. I figure chances are if I like one book by that author, I'll probably like his/her other books, too. That was definitely the … [Read more...]


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Fruit And Nut Granola, Great For Holiday Gifts & Entertaining

When the holiday season rolls around each year, I'm always looking for a yummy treat to give to friends and family and the other dearhearts who give so much to me throughout the year. This year I decided to try something different, something I've never made before. I've always wanted to try my hand at making granola so when Planters offered to send me some of their nuts to try in a recipe, I was totally on … [Read more...]


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Decorating With Preserved Boxwood Wreaths

Welcome to the 305th Metamorphosis Monday! My kitchen cabinets saw a little transformation this weekend. Do you ever decorate with preserved boxwood wreaths? I love fresh greenery and use it a lot at Christmastime but I love the preserved wreaths here on the glass cabinet doors in the kitchen. I've been decorating the cabinets this way ever since I saw this done on a Christmas home tour in Madison, … [Read more...]


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A Cure For The Floppy Pillow Flange & Adorable Scottie Sheets

Happy Black Friday! Did you brave the crowds and go shopping today? Since I don't do crowds or traffic (avoid both like the plague) I stayed home and worked on a few things here. Anyone score any amazing deals? I have something I'm super excited to share today because it was another one of those big AH-HA moments. The more I learn about bedding, the more I realize how little I know! Do you ever feel that … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: Christmas Decorations From Williamsburg

My most favorite way of decorating my home for Christmas is when I'm able to use fresh greenery from the garden. I first fell in love with using fruits and greenery in decorating when I visited Colonial Williamsburg many years ago.   That was when I saw my first apple cone or apple tree centerpiece. (Tutorial for making a Colonial Williamsburg style fruit cone/tree centerpiece can be found … [Read more...]


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Happy Thanksgiving!

Welcome to the 324th Tablescape Thursday! Pssst: Putting this week's tablescape up early since tomorrow will be a busy day for so many. Since I'm not hosting Thanksgiving dinner this year, for this week's Tablescape Thursday I'm linking back to previous table settings I've created over the years for Thanksgiving.     Hope you enjoy and hope your Thanksgiving Day is … [Read more...]


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Christmas In The Bedroom

This morning I shared one of my favorite holiday books by Mary Carol Garrity, Christmas At Home. Looking through that book again put me in the mood to do a little Christmas decorating. The guest bed was warmed up and made festive with a strand of red mitten garland.   You may remember the garland from when I decorated the screened porch last Christmas. (Christmas Porch post can be viewed … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: Nell Hill’s Christmas At Home

Looking for a little inspiration for your holiday decorating this year? The book I'm sharing today is one I love to look through each year as the Christmas season comes around. It's filled with gorgeous vignettes, beautiful place settings and inspiration for every room in the home.   In the BNOTP Library: Nell Hill's Christmas At Home Author: Mary Carol Garrity Hardcover: 128 … [Read more...]


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The Mysterious Ways Of Duvets

Welcome to the 304th Metamorphosis Monday! How was your weekend? Hope it was a great one! Mine was busy. Unfortunately, there was a lot of "spinning my wheels" kind of stuff going on but in the end it was worth it because I learned some things I know will stick with me. You may remember I've been working on a little bedding makeover for the master bedroom.   A few days after I shared … [Read more...]


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A French Duvet I Couldn’t Leave Behind

It's been a while since we stopped by one of my favorite haunts, A Classy Flea. My timing today wasn't the greatest since they just had a huge Holiday Open House about a week ago. I didn't make it to the open house and I wasn't sure there would be anything left when I stopped in today. I found a few things to share and picked up a couple of things for myself. One of the things I purchased was a kind of … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: A Nantucket Christmas

Have you ever visited Nantucket? I have not but the little bit I've heard about it has me yearning to go. I'd love to see it during the summer but today's book has me convinced it's just as wonderful at Christmastime as it is during the rest of the year.   In the BNOTP Library: A Nantucket Christmas Author: Leslie Linsley Hardcover: 108 pages Book Size: 8.5 x 0.5 x 10 3 Things I … [Read more...]


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A Winter Table Setting & A $250 Giveaway From Noritake

Welcome to the 323rd Tablescape Thursday! It's too cold for tablescaping out on the porch this week so we're in the dining room for this week's Tablescape Thursday. Since I have an abundance of red tartan tablecloths right now :) (see Tuesday's post for an explanation) I decided to put one to use.   This table is all about winter with a snowflake centerpiece, frosty white Cher Blanc … [Read more...]


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Dressing The Bed In Tartan: Ralph Lauren Inspired

The makeover I've been working on in my bedroom feels very timely with all this cold weather we've had come in so early this year. You may remember my inspiration is this bed dressed all in Tartan by Ralph Lauren. I don't know why Ralph Lauren likes plaid fabric so much but I'm so very glad he does. Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought about mixing different plaids or tartan patterns if I hadn't … [Read more...]


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A Dream Fairytale Cottage Comes To Life

Welcome to the 303rd Metamorphosis Monday! Have you ever thought of downsizing to a smaller home? Tonita who blogs at Shabby Chic Tiny Retreat first got bit by the small-house bug when she walked into a tiny straw bale home at the California State Fair. Giving up her cell phone, Tonita took that money and began to save a $100.00 each month. After 7 years she had saved up enough to buy her own small … [Read more...]


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Warm, Cozy Escapes

It's cold out and I'm craving warmth. All I can think about these days are soft, merino-wool socks, cozy cable-knit sweaters, warm wool throws, libraries with fires blazing in the fireplace, flannel sheets, down duvets, hot chocolate by the fire and great books for reading on those way-too-cold nights. When fall comes around, I want to spend my days in rooms like Ralph Lauren's Bedford home library. I'm … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: A Fairy-Tale Christmas

Have you ever toured the Lyndhurst Castle in Tarrytown, New York? I haven't but I would love to see it in person. Each year Designer, Bob Pesce, decorates each of the castle's 15 main rooms in a fairy-tale theme. What an enchanting idea! I love it!   In the BNOTP Library: A Fairy-Tale Christmas: Creating Magical Celebrations Inspired by an Enchanted Castle Author: Karen Anderson Hardcover: … [Read more...]


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A Pancake Breakfast On The Porch

Welcome to the 322nd Tablescape Thursday! A couple of years ago I was in Marshall's and came across these cute, little individual milk bottles for $3 each. An idea instantly popped into my head. Wouldn't it be fun to use them in a breakfast table setting. I could fill each one with milk for cereal or with a preferred beverage then each person would feel extra spoiled having their own little milk bottle … [Read more...]


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15 Ways To Make Your Christmas Festive & Beautiful

Every year I say I'm going to get my wreaths up on my exterior windows earlier in the season so I can enjoy them longer and this year I finally managed to get it done! Yipee!   I'm so excited to have them up early enough to really enjoy them for a nice long time. The days always pass so quickly this time of year, don't they?   My landscaping across the front is on hold as I … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: Nell Hill’s O Christmas Tree

I've added some wonderful Christmas books to my decor library over the years and I've been eagerly awaiting the time when I could start sharing a few of those with you. Today's featured book is one I always pull off the shelf to enjoy this time of year as I decorate my home for the holidays.   In the BNOTP Library: Nell Hill's O Christmas Tree Author: Mary Carol Garrity Hardcover: 144 … [Read more...]


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Shopping The “A Christmas Story” Movie House Gift Store

A few months ago I was visiting family in Ohio. While there, I took a little day trip over to a Cleveland to tour a place I've always wanted to see in person. Afterwards, I shared this funny picture on the blog and asked if you could guess where it was taken.   I can't get anything by you guys! Y'all had no trouble figuring out I was reenacting a scene from the well-loved Christmas movie, A … [Read more...]


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Decorate Your Mantel For Fall and Thanksgiving

Welcome to the 302nd Metamorphosis Monday! This weekend I decided it was time to give the living room mantel a little makeover for fall and Thanksgiving. This can be a fun room to spruce up for autumn because the warms tones in the judges paneling and the jewel tone colors of the fabrics always make a great backdrop for fall decorating.   Normally the mantel has a few books and … [Read more...]


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What To Do With Those Left Over Pumpkins & Gourds

Halloween is behind us but if you're like me, you may still be using the pumpkins you bought for Halloween in your fall decorating. With Thanksgiving only a few weeks away, here are some fun and creative ideas shared for a recent Met Monday. These would be great for dressing up those left over faux or uncute pumpkins and gourds for your Thanksgiving table or fall decor.   Life in my Empty … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: Sarah Style by Sarah Richardson

It's here! Seems like I've been waiting forever for Sarah Richardson's first-ever book to arrive. Do you know, Sarah? I first discovered her when I caught a series on HGTV where they chronicled the huge makeover she gave to her island cottage. I loved the beach cottage so when I discovered she had a book coming out in June, I did something I rarely do, I pre-ordered it. I got this surprising e-mail from … [Read more...]


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Replace Your Old Doorbell For The Upcoming Holidays

Happy Friday! Got any special plans for the weekend? Will you be doing any DIY projects around the house or maybe decorating for the holidays? Speaking of DIY projects, about a month ago I completed a small upgrade that I'm super excited to share today. I've noticed from time-to-time over the years that my doorbell was looking pretty decrepit. I tell ya, doorbells get no respect. lol They get installed … [Read more...]


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Tartan Dishware: Mix & Match Patterns To Create 17 Unique Tartan Place Settings

Welcome to the 321st Tablescape Thursday! It's 5 AM as I write this. My server had a glitch tonight and I couldn't load any photos. Thankfully my host company figured out what was wrong and fixed it but it really delayed things and I never got to go to sleep. So this post will be short on words as I head off to bed soon for a few hours sleep. With all things tartan on the brain this week, I though it … [Read more...]


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The Power of the Pillow

Well, I think I've made a final decision about my bedding. I should know very soon but I'm 99% sure I'm going with the bedding I shared from Williams-Sonoma Home in yesterday's post. So what has moved me further along in that direction?   This little tartan pillow is to blame. A few days after I ordered the bedding, I revisited the WS website to gawk at it again. In the midst of my gawking, I … [Read more...]


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Create a Winter Retreat With Tartan Bedding

So, apparently landscaping the front yard wasn't a big enough project to take on this fall. Somehow I've also embarked on a little makeover in the master bedroom. Here's how my bedroom has looked for the last 10 years. I still love this bedding but I've always dreamed of having both a "winter" look and a "summer" look for my bedroom. These colors are great for spring and summer but they have always … [Read more...]


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They Only Look Like Ornaments…

Welcome to the 301st Metamorphosis Monday! Pssst...come over here a second, I want to show you something. We're in the Christmas section of Wal-mart...what do you see? Looks like ornaments, right?   I'm seeing something else. Those antlers, the ones in a circle shape there on the top row...   To me, those look like great napkin rings...   ...for a Christmas … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: Legends In The Garden

November may not be the best time of the year to talk gardening books but today when I came across this one tucked inside the secretary that lives in my bedroom, I didn't want to wait all the way until next spring to share this delightful book. Besides, the love of gardening doesn't fade away with the change of the seasons or a drop in the temperature, right? Wintertime is planning time and time spent … [Read more...]


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Thanksgiving & Christmas Tablescapes With Pottery Barn

Welcome to the 320th Tablescape Thursday! Yesterday I popped into Pottery Barn to get a look their tabletop goodies for the Thanksgiving and Christmas season. The PB near me was under construction last time I visited because they were expanding the size of the store. With construction complete, things looked very different on this trip. They had lots of pretty tablescapes set up throughout the … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: Bringing It Home: England

Every time I pull a book off the shelf to share, I invariably think, "I love this book, I should have already shared this one." Then I remember, I always think that about all the books I've shared.   In the BNOTP Library: Bringing It Home: England: The Ultimate Guide to Creating the Feeling of England in Your Home Author: Cheryl MacLachlan Hardcover: 192 pages Book Size: 10.8 x 8.5 x … [Read more...]


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The Way Neighborhoods Used To Be

This past weekend I took a little trip to visit family in Ohio. I always feel at home when I'm there because the older neighborhoods are very similar to those you would find driving through any of the older cities and towns in Georgia. The homes are anything but cookie-cutter. As I drove down the streets oohing and ahhhing over the architecture and beauty of the older homes, I wondered how we ever … [Read more...]


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Rehab Addict’s Nicole Curtis Bungalow Makeover

Welcome to the 300th Metamorphosis Monday! Do you ever watch the show, Rehab Addict on HGTV? I don't catch the show as often as I would like but I always love seeing the latest old home Nicole Curtis, the star of the show, is saving from demolition. Nicole has a big soft spot in her heart for old homes. In this interview where she was asked about her passion for saving old homes, Nicole explained her … [Read more...]


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Halloween Tablescape, Edgar Allan Poe Inspired

Welcome to the 319th Tablescape Thursday! Please do not link up more than 2 tables each week to the party. When Elena emailed and shared photos of her Halloween table and decor with me recently, she said, "My theme was Edgar Allan Poe Raven, cluttered elegant Gothic (LOL)—with your batty idea thrown in :0)"  That totally made me laugh...I love Elena's sense of humor!   Check out this … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: Entertaining In Style

With so many opportunities for entertaining ahead of us as we enter into the season of Halloween parties, Thanksgiving dinners, Christmas parties followed by New Years Eve parties, I'm sharing a book with some great ideas for hosting parties and entertaining. It's also by one of my fave authors, Mary Carol Garrity, the owner of Nell Hill's.   In the BNOTP Library: Nell Hill's Entertaining in … [Read more...]


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Brussels Sprouts So Delicious, Kids Will Even Eat Them

Recently I had the urge to visit Trader Joe's, I hadn't been there in ages. While shopping I came across a bin filled with stalks of Brussels sprouts. I've seen them in TJ's before and each time it always amazes me to see how they really grow.  (Photo below from bonnieplantsdotcom)   In this photo from Wikipedia, you can see how they grow along the stalk of the plant. Isn't that the neatest … [Read more...]


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Gardening Challenges And A Wacky Idea That Just May Work

Welcome to the 299th Metamorphosis Monday! I have something kinda wacky to share this week. You'll either think it's the most brilliant thing you've ever heard or you'll think it's completely NUTS...pun intended! But before I share my wacky plan, here's what I've been up to...planting Double Mint Gardenias. So far I've had two planting sessions and I still don't have all five of them in, but I'm making … [Read more...]


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6 Fabulous Fall Mantels!

Fall is such a great time of year! Mother Nature is very busy now, redecorating and changing the color palette of our home from vivid greens and bright colors to one filled with the rich warm colors of red, orange, gold and brown. We can never resist following her lead and bringing those beautiful colors into our own homes! I can tell you guys love Fall, as well.  At this week's Metamorphosis Monday Link … [Read more...]


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Tour Nottoway Plantation, South’s Largest Remaining Antebellum Mansion

Back in May of this year, I spent an entire week in Louisiana and Mississippi touring 13+ antebellum homes. I've never taken a whole week for the sole purpose of touring historic homes, so this was a real treat. One of the homes we toured was Nottoway Plantation, located at 30970 Hwy—405 on the Mississippi River Road, 2 miles north of White Castle, Louisiana. Nottoway is said to be the South's largest … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: Decorating With Books

I love books so much, I even buy books written about books. If I were decorating a room and could only add one thing to it other than the furniture and lighting, it would be books. Take away the tchotchkes and vases if you must, remove the figurines and the decorative plates, just don't take away the books.   Pssst: All the books I've featured from my library so far, are linked under the main … [Read more...]


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Halloween Tablescape With Haunted House Centerpiece & Spiderweb Tablecloth

Welcome to the 318th Tablescape Thursday! It was a dark and stormy night....well, actually it was more like a dark and rainy day but dark and stormy night sounds a lot more fun and creepy for our Halloween table setting. It was a tad too chilly to set a table out on the porch this week so we're dining inside in the breakfast room for Tablescape Thursday.   We aren't dining alone, we have … [Read more...]


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Eye of Newt and Toe of Frog, Wool of Bat…

Eye of newt and toe of frog, Wool of bat and tongue of dog... Double, double toil and trouble; fire burn and cauldron bubble. Macbeth (Act IV, Scene I) ~William Shakespeare Eeek! It's like a scene from Alfred Hitchcock's movie, The Birds! Only, in this case it's The Bats! I've had this image saved on my computer for a year or two. I've always wanted to duplicate the look on my front porch for … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: Adventures With Old Houses

Adventures With Old Houses was one of the very first books I ever purchased on Amazon. I don't remember now why I bought this book but I'm sure it had something to do with the title. I had never heard of Richard Jenrette but I had a feeling I would like him because anyone with the passion and fortitude to take on the restoration of an old home, and not just one but 14+ old homes, knows a whole lot … [Read more...]


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Leyland Cypress Trees Offer Screening And Privacy

Welcome to the 298th Metamorphosis Monday! Shortly after moving into my home 22+ years ago, we planted a lot of Leyland Cypress trees on either side of our home to provide screening and privacy from the houses on either side. One side of my porch and deck is very private, the other side is kind of close to my neighbor's home. I like my neighbors but there are times when it would be nice to have more … [Read more...]


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Fabulous Decor Ideas for Fall

Are you finally feeling a little crisp coolness in the air?  It is still pretty warm here, but I'm definitely enjoying these early days of Autumn. After checking out all the amazing projects this past Metamorphosis Monday, I can tell you are too! Here are just a few wonderful ideas for Fall I found while looking at your posts... Would you believe that these pumpkins and gourds are artificial? … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: On Garden Style by Bunny Williams

Did you know the wonderfully talented Interior Designer, Bunny Williams authored a gardening book? She did! When I discovered this a few years ago, I was so excited I immediately ordered her book based solely on how much I had loved her book, An Affair With A House.   In the BNOTP Library: On Garden Style Author: Bunny Williams Hardcover: 288 pages Book Size: 9.3 x 9.4 x 1 3 Things … [Read more...]


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Goodbye Squirrel Highway

Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts on whether I should move the Savannah Holly I planted recently back a little toward the house, or leave it where I had planted it. In case you missed that post, I planted a Savannah Holly tree at the right corner of my home as kind of an anchor plant for that end of the house. The landscape plan created by a landscape designer last year indicated the tree should be … [Read more...]


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Frightfully Fun Tablescapes For Halloween!

Welcome to the 317th Tablescape Thursday! Ever since I met Marie a couple of years ago, Halloween has taken a huge leap forward in the FUN department. Marie lives life with tremendous joy and I have to tell you, it's contagious! Recently I took you on a tour of the outside of her home all decorated for Halloween. We're going inside this week for Tablescape Thursday and I can't wait to share the tables … [Read more...]


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The Landscape Plan

Last September, after a summer spent reclaiming my front yard from the overgrown jungle it had become, I consulted the services of a local garden nursery and had a landscape plan created. I thought you might enjoy seeing it so I'm sharing it in today's post. To get a closer look, press CTRL + a few times on your keyboard. Once you're done viewing the plan, press CTRL 0 (zero) to return to normal. When … [Read more...]


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Need Your Opinion: 8 Feet vs 10 Feet

Welcome to the 297th Metamorphosis Monday! Greetings! How was your weekend? This weekend was a productive one around here. I was able to get all the Savannah Holly trees in, although one may need to be moved. I need your help to decide. I hired someone to help me get all the trees planted and I worked alongside him digging the holes and helping the entire time. I'm sore today, but it's a good … [Read more...]


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5 Fabulous Fall Tablescapes

Every week beautiful, creative table settings are shared for Tablescape Thursday. Here are just a few of my favorites for Fall from last week's Tablescape Thursday.   Plum Creek Place used this gorgeous brown and  white floral pattern for her early Fall table.  You would never guess, but she thrifted everything, but the pears!   I love a little unexpected twist when setting a … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: The Englishman’s Room

It was the title that drew me to this book, loving English design as I do, but this is far from your average decorating or design book.   In the BNOTP Library: The Englishman's Room Author: Alvide Lees-Milne Hardcover: 144 pages Book Size: 10.8 x 8.6 x 0.8   3 Things I Like About This Book: The author had 31 Englishmen share about their favorite room and why it's their … [Read more...]


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Hootin’ It Up For Halloween

Welcome to the 316th Tablescape Thursday! The owls hooting up a storm in my backyard recently must have been the inspiration behind this table setting. (Hear that recording here: Night Sounds From The Porch)   I found Mr. Owl in Wal-mart around this time last year. He's actually a cookie jar. I placed him atop two cake pedestals to give him some height in the center of the … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: The Epicurean Collector

If you're a lover of cooking, table setting, entertaining or antiques, the book I'm sharing this evening is a great one to consider for your library.   In the BNOTP Library: The Epicurean Collector: Exploring the World of Culinary Antiques Author: Patrick Dunne Hardcover: 192 pages Book Size: 10.3 x 9.7 x 0.9   Patrick Dunne, the author of this book, used to have a column in … [Read more...]


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Halloween Fantasy In Lights

Do you have a friend who is a joy to be around...someone who truly loves life and when you're together, you always have a blast? When my friend, Marie and I get together, it's always non-stop fun and laughs. Marie's enthusiasm is contagious and everyone who meets her is better for having known her. Recently, Marie and I got together for one of our play dates which usually involves a little lunch, a bit … [Read more...]


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A Spooky Halloween Hutch

Welcome to the 296th Metamorphosis Monday! Did you have a good weekend? I spent mine getting a few things done here around the house. I also played a little out on the porch, changing the hutch from its summertime look to something fun and just a tad spooky!   Postcards From The Porch Before I share the hutch update, I wanted to say a big thank you to all the lovely folks who took time to … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: The Well-Placed Weed

This morning I took you on a tour of Ryan Gainey's beautiful garden in Atlanta. The book I'm sharing today takes you back into Ryan's garden for a much more in-depth look, as well as into his cottage-style home for a look at how he sets the table for a dinner party.   In the BNOTP Library: The Well-Placed Weed: The Bountiful Garden of Ryan Gainey Author: Ryan Gainey Hardcover: 176 … [Read more...]


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Scenes From The Garden Of Ryan Gainey

This past spring on Mother's Day weekend, a friend and I went on the Atlanta Botanical's "Gardens for Connoisseurs" garden tour. One garden I always love seeing and look forward to each year is the garden of Ryan Gainey. His garden has been on the tour every year for the past 20+ years! Ryan Gainey with his dogs via Ryan Gainey dot com   This year I heard rumors this would be his last year … [Read more...]


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The Best-Dressed Table At The County Fair

Welcome to the 315th Tablescape Thursday! It's that time of year. The days are getting shorter, the leaves are beginning to change color and there's a cool crispness to the evening air. That can only mean one thing; the smell of cotton candy and funnel cakes will soon fill the air.  Source The Country Fair is in town! Each year Dawnette bravely takes up a most unique challenge--she enters a … [Read more...]


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In The BNOTP Library: Shakespeare In The Garden

With gardening on the mind these days, I'm sharing one of my favorite gardening books, one I purchased per Amazon in September 2006. That was two years before I began blogging; I didn't even know what a blog was back then and today I have the joy of sharing it with you on this wonderful thing called the World Wide Web. Amazing! :)   In the BNOTP Library: Shakespeare in the Garden Author: … [Read more...]


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