Dreaming Of A White Christmas

December 10, 2014 by 38 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Christmas Decor, Christmas Holiday Home, Christmas Table Settings

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Inside “A Christmas Story” Movie Museum

December 9, 2014 by 35 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Christmas Holiday Home, Christmas Movies, Movie Houses, TV & Movie House Fun Tagged With: , , , ,

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A Summer House On A Christmas Home Tour

December 8, 2014 by 51 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Christmas Decor, Christmas Holiday Home, Christmas Home Tours Tagged With: , , ,

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In The BNOTP Library: Southern Christmas

December 5, 2014 by 10 Comments

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

December 4, 2014 by 35 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Tablescape Thursday, Travel

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In The BNOTP Library: Bedrooms

December 3, 2014 by 4 Comments

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

December 1, 2014 by 27 Comments

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

December 1, 2014 by 51 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Christmas Decor, Christmas Holiday Home, Kitchen & Breakfast Area, My Nest Tagged With: ,

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A Cure For The Floppy Pillow Flange & Adorable Scottie Sheets

November 28, 2014 by 37 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Bedroom (Master), Before & After, My Nest

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In The BNOTP Library: Christmas Decorations From Williamsburg

November 28, 2014 by 13 Comments

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!

November 26, 2014 by 29 Comments

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...]

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

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Christmas In The Bedroom

November 25, 2014 by 59 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Bedroom (Guest Room), Bedroom (Master), Christmas Decor, Christmas Holiday Home, My Nest

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

November 25, 2014 by 3 Comments

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

November 24, 2014 by 103 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Bedroom (Master), My Nest

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A French Duvet I Couldn’t Leave Behind

November 21, 2014 by 70 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Bedroom (Master), My Nest, Seasonal Decor Tagged With: , , ,

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In The BNOTP Library: A Nantucket Christmas

November 21, 2014 by 16 Comments

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

November 20, 2014 by 67 Comments

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...]

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

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Dressing The Bed In Tartan: Ralph Lauren Inspired

November 18, 2014 by 149 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Bedroom (Master), Before & After, My Nest, Seasonal Decor Tagged With: , , , , , ,

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A Dream Fairytale Cottage Comes To Life

November 17, 2014 by 58 Comments

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

November 14, 2014 by 28 Comments

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

November 14, 2014 by 1 Comment

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

November 13, 2014 by 55 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Breakfast Tablescapes, Fall Tablescapes, Seasonal Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: , , ,

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15 Ways To Make Your Christmas Festive & Beautiful

November 12, 2014 by 40 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Christmas Crafts, Christmas Decor, Christmas Holiday Home, Christmas Napkin Folds, Christmas Recipes

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

November 11, 2014 by 3 Comments

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

November 11, 2014 by 21 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Movie Houses, TV & Movie House Fun, United States Tagged With: ,

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Decorate Your Mantel For Fall and Thanksgiving

November 10, 2014 by 63 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Living Room (Downstairs), Seasonal Decor, Thanksgiving Decor, Thanksgiving Holiday Home Tagged With: , , ,

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What To Do With Those Left Over Pumpkins & Gourds

November 9, 2014 by 19 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Seasonal Decor

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In The BNOTP Library: Sarah Style by Sarah Richardson

November 8, 2014 by 17 Comments

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

November 7, 2014 by 24 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: DIY Decorating, DIY Repairs and Fixes, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: , ,

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

November 6, 2014 by 71 Comments

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...]

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

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The Power of the Pillow

November 5, 2014 by 66 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Bedroom (Master), Before & After, My Nest, Seasonal Decor Tagged With: , ,

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Create a Winter Retreat With Tartan Bedding

November 4, 2014 by 92 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Bedroom (Master), Before & After, My Nest, Seasonal Decor Tagged With: , , , , , ,

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They Only Look Like Ornaments…

November 3, 2014 by 121 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Christmas Holiday Home, Christmas Table Settings, Christmas Tablescapes, Fall Tablescapes, Thanksgiving Holiday Home, Thanksgiving Table Settings, Thanksgiving Tablescapes, Winter Tablescapes

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In The BNOTP Library: Legends In The Garden

November 2, 2014 by 4 Comments

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

October 30, 2014 by 69 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Christmas Holiday Home, Christmas Table Settings, Christmas Tablescapes, Fall Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday, Thanksgiving Holiday Home, Thanksgiving Table Settings, Thanksgiving Tablescapes

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In The BNOTP Library: Bringing It Home: England

October 29, 2014 by 5 Comments

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

October 28, 2014 by 110 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Historic Homes, Storybook Cottages

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Rehab Addict’s Nicole Curtis Bungalow Makeover

October 27, 2014 by 62 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Historic Homes

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Halloween Tablescape, Edgar Allan Poe Inspired

October 23, 2014 by 38 Comments

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...]

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

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In The BNOTP Library: Entertaining In Style

October 21, 2014 by 5 Comments

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

October 21, 2014 by 38 Comments

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

October 20, 2014 by 131 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Garden, Gardening & Birding, In the Garden

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6 Fabulous Fall Mantels!

October 19, 2014 by 11 Comments

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

October 17, 2014 by 40 Comments

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

October 16, 2014 by 8 Comments

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

October 16, 2014 by 43 Comments

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…

October 15, 2014 by 97 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Halloween Crafts, Halloween Decor, Halloween Holiday Home, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: , , ,

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In The BNOTP Library: Adventures With Old Houses

October 14, 2014 by 2 Comments

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

October 13, 2014 by 39 Comments

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

October 12, 2014 by 18 Comments

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

October 10, 2014 by 2 Comments

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

October 10, 2014 by 32 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Garden, Gardening & Birding, In the Garden

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Frightfully Fun Tablescapes For Halloween!

October 9, 2014 by 30 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Children's Tablescapes, Halloween Decor, Halloween Holiday Home, Halloween Table Settings, Halloween Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

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The Landscape Plan

October 8, 2014 by 39 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Garden, Gardening & Birding, In the Garden

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Need Your Opinion: 8 Feet vs 10 Feet

October 6, 2014 by 118 Comments

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

October 4, 2014 by 17 Comments

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

October 3, 2014 by 2 Comments

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

October 2, 2014 by 45 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: Children's Tablescapes, Fall Tablescapes, Halloween Holiday Home, Halloween Recipes, Halloween Table Settings, Halloween Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: , , , , , ,

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In The BNOTP Library: The Epicurean Collector

October 1, 2014 by 7 Comments

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

October 1, 2014 by 36 Comments

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

September 29, 2014 by 62 Comments

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

September 26, 2014 by Leave a Comment

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

September 26, 2014 by 14 Comments

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

September 25, 2014 by 27 Comments

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

September 23, 2014 by 4 Comments

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...]

Filed Under: BNOTP Library, Gardening & Birding, In the Garden

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Here We Go Again!

September 23, 2014 by 43 Comments

I'm in serious landscaping mode again and I may have bitten off more than I can chew. That's usually my modus operandi, dive in head first and when it appears I'm in over my head, start digging my way out. Only this time I'm just plain digging! :) Before we get to the digging, I am busting to share some absolutely adorable stuff I found in a local nursery this weekend. I love shopping at a Pike Nursery … [Read more...]

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A Screened Porch Addition For A New England Home

September 22, 2014 by 69 Comments

Welcome to the 295th Metamorphosis Monday! When Lori and Bob built their home in 1993, they added a nice, large 14 x 24 foot deck on the back. After moving in they found they never really used the deck because the back of their home faces west and the deck always stayed way too hot to really enjoy. I had the same problem with the deck on my home being way too hot, even though the back of my home faces … [Read more...]

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This Is Where I Leave You

September 21, 2014 by 54 Comments

Last night a friend and I went to see the movie, This Is Where I Leave You, a comedy starring Jason Bateman as Judd Altman, Tina Fey as Wendy Altman and Jane Fonda as their mother, Hillary Altman. The movie is based on a 2009 novel by Jonathan Tropper and was a New York Times bestseller. I was pretty excited when the opening scenes showed the outside of a beautiful home...yay, another great movie house! I … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Movie House Tours, Movie Houses

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Just Like Heaven

September 19, 2014 by 23 Comments

I've never been much of a big city girl but after seeing the movie, Just Like Heaven, I'm wondering if I should reconsider. Oh my goodness...cutest apartment EVER! Okay, it still has some serious competition from Bronte's apartment in the movie, Greencard, but the rooftop garden and view is a close competitor for the to-die-for greenhouse in Greencard. It's been a while since I watched Just Like … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Movie House Tours, Movie Houses

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5 Autumn Table Settings

September 18, 2014 by 37 Comments

Welcome to the 314th Tablescape Thursday! Before we dive into this week's Tablescape Thursday, I have a little update about Postcards From The Porch, the newsletter for Between Naps On The Porch. As it looks right now, I should be sending out the first newsletter this Saturday. Yay!   If you would like to receive the BNOTP weekly newsletter, sign up HERE. Or, you can use the subscribe box … [Read more...]

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In The BNOTP Library: Cottages On The Coast

September 17, 2014 by 2 Comments

I have beach cottage living on my mind after our tour of a wonderful beach house this morning. If you missed that tour, you'll find it here: Beach Cottage Overflowing With Charm   In the BNOTP Library: Cottages on the Coast: Fair Harbors and Secret Shores Author: Linda Leigh Paul Hardcover: 224 pages Book Size: 8.7 x 9.1 x 1.2 inches   3 Things I Like About This Book: If … [Read more...]

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Night Sounds From The Porch

September 16, 2014 by 64 Comments

I absolutely adore owls! They are sooo beautiful! Last night I was working late in the office when I heard two Barred Owls in the trees out back. I grabbed my camera and ran down to the porch to see if I could capture their hoots for you.   I thought about using my phone to record them but I knew my camera would pick up the audio much better. Unfortunately, you can't see anything because it … [Read more...]

Filed Under: For the Love of Birds, Gardening & Birding, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks

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There’s Gold And Wine In Them Thar Hills!

September 16, 2014 by 29 Comments

Actually, Dahlonega Mint assayer, Dr. M. F. Stephenson was misquoted. What he really said that day in 1849, standing on the courthouse steps was, "There's millions in it!" as he tried his best to persuade miners they should stay in Dahlonega instead of heading out west to California where another famous gold rush was underway at the time. A few weeks ago some friends and I headed up to the north Georgia … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Gardening & Birding, In the Garden, Travel

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Backyard Makeover: Convert A Pond To A Backyard Oasis

September 15, 2014 by 51 Comments

Welcome to the 294th Metamorphosis Monday! In 1999 Liz who blogs at Infuse With Liz and on her garden blog, Sit With Me In My Garden, added a pond to her backyard. The pond eventually grew into a much larger scale project that included a creek with extensive plantings. Liz and her hubby, Dan enjoyed the pond for many years but in spring of 2009 they decided they were ready for a change. The pond, … [Read more...]

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A Gift From Nature

September 14, 2014 by 40 Comments

Just because I'm weird, I have to share this with you. :) Remember the perennial garden I put in alongside my walkway last fall. I shared this photo of it earlier in the summer. (See that post here: Create A Small Sun-Loving Perennial Garden)   Well, I'm not sure how, but a sunflower just appeared along the edge of it recently. Maybe a bird visiting my backyard feeder brought a sunflower seed … [Read more...]

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In The BNOTP Library: A Passion For Detail

September 13, 2014 by 9 Comments

Charlotte Moss is one of my favorite designers because she puts so much passion into everything she does, including those seemingly small details that give a room life and personality. I've never bought a Charlotte Moss book, I didn't love or come away with a new idea. This book has a bit of a scrapbook feel to me because the pictures throughout are all different sizes, some large, some medium size, some … [Read more...]

Filed Under: BNOTP Library, Inspire

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5 Hearty Dinners For Fall

September 12, 2014 by 24 Comments

Fall is in the air here in Georgia. Nightfall comes a little earlier each day and the mornings and evenings are feeling a bit cooler. Sweater weather is coming. When I went outside this evening to bring in the bird feeders, a strong wind rustled the trees and I looked up to see leaves swirling in the air overhead. Some fluttered down to the deck and a big yellow one landed on the rail. All these … [Read more...]

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Silver for an End of Summer Table Setting

September 11, 2014 by 61 Comments

Welcome to the 313th Tablescape Thursday! Such a beautiful day to be out on the porch! I headed out to the garden to cut the last of the purple phlox. It's almost completely finished blooming for another year but I managed to find just enough for our centerpiece. It smells heavenly, I wish I could share the fragrance with you.   A couple of years ago I came across a table setting showing … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Children's Tablescapes, Shower Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

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In The BNOTP Library: The Floral Home

September 9, 2014 by 5 Comments

Sharing an absolutely delicious book today. If you love decorating with floral fabrics and love English design, you'll adore this book!   In the BNOTP Library: Floral Home, The:: From Floral Wallpapers and Fabrics to Arranging Fresh and Dried Flowers Author: Leslie Geddes-Brown Hardcover: 191 pages Book Size: 11.5 x 9.6 x 0.7   3 Things I Like About This Book: If you … [Read more...]

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Concrete Walkway Transformed With Beautiful Cobble-Stone Pavers

September 8, 2014 by 52 Comments

Welcome to the 293rd Metamorphosis Monday! Have you ever thought about making over your front walkway? Often, our walkway is the very first impression visitors have of our home since it's one of first things they see upon arriving. We want our walkway and entrance to always feel inviting and welcoming since it guides our friends and family right up to the front door of our home. Carolyn who reads … [Read more...]

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Let’s Go Antiquing!

September 6, 2014 by 74 Comments

It's been a long time since we made a visit to one of my favorite haunts, A Classy Flea. I stopped in today and found some fun things. The only thing I purchased was a small book but there were quite a few things I found super tempting. I used great restraint! Sweet serving dish... would be great for a springtime or Easter dinner. Be lovely to display year around. Dishes like this are just too cute to … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Favorite Fashions & Home Goods

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Tour Laura Plantation, A Creole Plantation in Vacherie Louisiana

September 5, 2014 by 26 Comments

Today I'm taking you inside Laura Plantation, another one of the many plantation homes I toured with my friend Linda on our trip to the New Orleans area back in May of this year. Laura is a Creole plantation located on River Road in Vacherie, Louisiana. It is midway between Baton Rouge and New Orleans. I've heard the word Creole many times over the years but I never knew exactly what it meant. Per the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Historic Homes, Home Tours

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In The BNOTP Library: Linens For Every Room And Occasion

September 5, 2014 by 4 Comments

Do you love beautiful linens? Does your heart beat a little faster when you run your hand across an embroidered tablecloth or a monogrammed pillow, marveling at the artistry and love that went into creating it? Do you sometimes wish you knew more about how to use those special linens you've inherited or purchased? Or, do you just enjoy beautiful interior design, lovely table settings and the art of fine … [Read more...]

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Dapper-Dressed Animals Gather: Whimsical Tablescape

September 4, 2014 by 81 Comments

Welcome to the 312th Tablescape Thursday! My table setting this week did its best to become an autumn table setting. At one point it was sporting a centerpiece of fall leaves and sparkly, brown pine cones. I'm just not quite ready to succumb to fall. So I took the leaves away and decided to go with something lighter, something that hints of fall but still has one foot firmly planted in these last warm … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fall Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday

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Tour Designer Carolyn Westbrook’s Home, The Oaks

September 3, 2014 by 15 Comments

Have you ever been looking at homes online and suddenly thought, "I know that home!" That happened to me recently when I came across Designer, Carolyn Westbrook's plantation home, The Oaks. I recognized several of the rooms from having seen them in one of her books, Carolyn Westbrook Home. After living there for many years, I guess she is ready for a change because her home is now on the market and … [Read more...]

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In The BNOTP Library: Books Make A Home

September 3, 2014 by 10 Comments

You know you love books when you find yourself buying books about books. :) I have quite a few books on the subject of collecting, storing and decorating with books and they are some of my absolute faves in my decor library.   In the BNOTP Library: Books Make a Home Author: Damian Thompson Hardcover: 160 pages   3 Things I Like About This Book: If I could only choose one … [Read more...]

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Stain Your Deck With An Oil-Based Stain For Longer-Lasting Protection

September 1, 2014 by 40 Comments

Welcome to the 292nd Metamorphosis Monday! Every few years I have my house, porches and decks professionally pressure-washed. Once that's completed, it's usually time to reapply a protective coat of stain to the floor of the decks. This year I decided to try something different. In the past I've always used a water-based stain and I haven't been too happy with how well it has held up, or I should say, … [Read more...]

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Tour A Historic Waterfront Lodge on Lake Placid

August 29, 2014 by 16 Comments

It's a conspiracy, I'm convinced. I really am doing my best to just enjoy these last warm days of summer. After all, this is how the weather in Georgia looks during the month of September. Fall doesn't even really think about arriving here for another month.   But try as I may, I keep stumbling across beautiful scenes like this and I'm suddenly thinking of autumn. Doesn't this room just lure … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Beach & Lake Homes, Historic Homes

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A Little Fall & Christmas Preview

August 28, 2014 by 69 Comments

Welcome to the 311th Tablescape Thursday! I was working on a table to share this week, but the new screens arrived for the porch and by the time they were done installing them, it was too late in the day to finish the table and take photos. So I'll share it next week. In the meantime, I snapped a few pics when I was last in Pottery Barn. I always love to stop in to just see what they are doing for the … [Read more...]

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In The BNOTP Library: Charles Faudree Home

August 27, 2014 by 1 Comment

After touring a wonderful home decorated in the beautiful warmth and style of French Country design, I knew the perfect book to share from my decor library.   In the BNOTP Library: Charles Faudree Home Author: Charles Faudree Hardcover: 224 pages Book Size: 12.1 x 10.4 x 0.9   I cherish all the books I own by Designer and Philanthropist, Charles Faudree since he just passed … [Read more...]

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