Valentine’s Day Table Settings, Great for the Kids

February 14, 2013 by 57 Comments

Welcome to the 232nd Tablescape Thursday and Happy Valentine's Day! Before Valentine's Day gets away, I have two last Valentine's Day table settings to share.  A visit to the home of my friend, Marie, is always so much fun.  I love seeing how she decorates her beautiful home for her grandchildren's visits and for the holidays. The basement/terrace level has a full kitchen and is a great spot for the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Tablescape Thursday, Tablescapes Holiday Tablescapes, The Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Table Settings, Valentine's Day Tablescapes Tagged With: , , , ,

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A Mardi Gras Table Setting Celebration

February 13, 2013 by 31 Comments

Did you celebrate Mardi Gras this year?  I know almost nothing about Mardi Gras but per Wikipedia, Mardi Gras is the "Carnival Season: and it starts on or after Epiphany and ends the day before Ash Wednesday.  Mardi Gras is actual a French word meaning Fat Tuesday.  Apparently, it's called Fat Tuesday because on the last night before the ritual fasting of the Lenten season (which begins on Ash Wednesday) … [Read more...]

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Screened-in Porches: How Much Do They Cost to Build?

February 12, 2013 by 157 Comments

One of the most frequently asked questions I get is how much did it cost to build your screened porch? With spring just a couple of months away, I thought I'd share all the details, facts and figures, in hopes it will help answer some of the questions I know many folks have about adding a porch. Having a screened-in porch had always been a dream of mine.  We had a small screened porch at our very first … [Read more...]

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A Comfy Desk Chair for the Office

February 11, 2013 by 88 Comments

Welcome to the 212th Metamorphosis Monday! How was your weekend?  Were you in blizzard territory?  The pictures I've been seeing online are amazing! For this Met Monday, I'm sharing a "comfort" change I made in the office this weekend.  It was one I was reluctant to make but finally decided it needed to be done. If you have been reading BNOTP for a while, you may remember when I purchased my desk … [Read more...]

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Valentine’s Day Table Settings: Casual and Elegant

February 7, 2013 by 47 Comments

Welcome to the 231st Tablescape Thursday! For this week's TT, I'm excited to share two more wonderful Valentine's Day table settings put together by my friend, Marie.  Marie created these for Valentine's Day but with just a few small changes, they would really be beautiful for any time of the year. Remember the casual eating area located in Marie's family room?  At Christmastime the table in that area … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Tablescape Thursday, Tablescapes Holiday Tablescapes, The Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Table Settings, Valentine's Day Tablescapes Tagged With: , , ,

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Carbon Monoxide Detectors and a Masked Visitor

February 6, 2013 by 68 Comments

How is that for a crazy post name?  I often have  things I want to share or blog about, but sometimes it's just not enough to warrant a full post.  So today I'm lumping a few things together, thus the wacky title. Recently, I've been feeling sooo tired...just want to sleep, sleep and sleep.   I can't make it through the day without taking a nap and even after a nap I'm still tired.  Very strange and … [Read more...]

Filed Under: For the Love of Birds, Gardening & Birding, Nature

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Beautiful Wedding Decorations, Centerpieces, Dresses and Ideas

February 5, 2013 by 74 Comments

Southern Living Weddings Giveaway:  Thanks so much to everyone who left a comment to enter the giveaway from Southern Living.  Chosen by a random number generator, the winners of the copies of Southern Living Weddings are:     Wedding Planning Ideas: Decorations, Centerpieces, Dresses, Venues, Flowers Recently, the folks at Southern Living Magazine sent me a copy of their 2013 … [Read more...]

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Restoration Hardware Inspired Bathroom Renovation

February 4, 2013 by 76 Comments

Welcome to the 211th Metamorphosis Monday! I have had so much fun reading your comments on the Downton Abbey Personality Quiz.  Y'all know your characters and your reactions to the quiz results were too funny!  The comments kept me laughing all weekend as more and more folks took the quiz and left a comment.  Thanks to Derrick (aka Lord Grantham) for humoring me and choosing the foxhunt/cigar/billards … [Read more...]

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Downton Abbey Personality Quiz: Which Character Are You?

February 1, 2013 by 91 Comments

Recently, a dearheart (thanks Sandi!) sent me a fun link where you can take a quick, 7-question quiz to see which Downton Abbey character you most resemble.  I finally got around to taking the test today and guess who I am? Anna, the head housemaid!  :)   Here are my results below.   I had to struggle with a few of the questions...really wanted to pick two answers.  Is it wrong when asked how I'd … [Read more...]

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Children’s Valentine’s Day Table Setting

January 31, 2013 by 36 Comments

Welcome to 230th Tablescape Thursday! Thanks so much for all the great comments you left on yesterday's "Brass is Back!" post.  You made some amazing points and I so enjoyed hearing your perspective on the resurgence of quality brass pieces in the home.  I especially love that so many of you don't let the latest trend pressure you into changing or discarding that which you truly love. If you've been … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Children's Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday, Tablescapes Holiday Tablescapes, The Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Table Settings, Valentine's Day Tablescapes Tagged With: , , ,

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Brass is Back, Baby!

January 29, 2013 by 147 Comments

I am a lover of polished brass.  There, I said it...right out loud! I'm sure you've noticed, brass has been getting a bad rap over the last few years.  Its cousins chrome, nickel and oil-rubbed bronze have squeezed it out as the metal of favor. Now granted, I have seen some not-so-great brass in my days, the kind that looks lifeless and dull, or worse, pitted.  But I never really understood why quality … [Read more...]

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Natural Fiber Ottoman or Stool for the Office

January 28, 2013 by 107 Comments

Welcome to the 210th Metamorphosis Monday! Last night I happened to turn on the TV while Downton Abbey was on.  I can never remember exactly when it comes on so I always end up watching it in bits and pieces over the week as the episode is replayed over and over on PBS.   I watched last night until the foreshadowing became too foreboding.  An arrogant, know-it-all doctor and talk of swollen ankles was … [Read more...]

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An Enchanting Blue Hour Sky

January 26, 2013 by 46 Comments

In April 2009 I posted a "garden party" table setting out on the porch.   Do you remember this tablescape?  The flower pots are actually Oreo "Dirt" Cheesecake dessert.   The chargers  for this setting were large terracotta saucers, the type that go under terracotta pots.  The little elastic band on the garden gloves acted as napkin rings.  (You can view this garden party table setting and get the recipe … [Read more...]

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Valentine’s Day Decorating Ideas

January 25, 2013 by 35 Comments

Yesterday I shared my friend, Marie's whimsical Valentine's Day tablescape, HERE featuring lots of cute little froggies.  Just off to the right, tucked backed into the corner, is a large white tree Marie decorates for various holidays.  I realized later, I probably should have taken pics when I first arrived, but I was hungry, hungry and had lunch on my mind.  We had so much fun shopping, it was starting to … [Read more...]

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A Valentine’s Day Table Setting, Elegant and Whimsical

January 24, 2013 by 57 Comments

Welcome to the 229th Tablescape Thursday! With Valentine's Day just a few weeks away, I'm excited to share a wonderfully, whimsical Valentine's Day table setting created by my friend, Marie.  This table setting has it all!  There's plenty of whimsy, but with touches of glitz and glamour, too! For her centerpiece, Marie assembled a sparkly collection of red vases and filled them with lots of fluffy, … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Tablescapes Holiday Tablescapes, The Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Table Settings, Valentine's Day Tablescapes Tagged With: , , , ,

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Porch Decorated for Valentine’s Day

January 22, 2013 by 52 Comments

Today I played hooky and it was soooo much fun.  I highly recommend it!  ;)  I guess it wasn't really hooky since I snapped some fun pics and garnered some great Valentine's Day decorating ideas to bring back and share with you. Such a great way to spend a cold January day.  I had lunch with my friend, Marie, followed by a fun day of shopping.  We visited all our favorite shopping haunts around town and … [Read more...]

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Resin Candle Covers and Silk-Wrapped Bulbs for the Bedroom Chandelier

January 21, 2013 by 88 Comments

Welcome to the 209th Metamorphosis Monday! I have a little master bedroom update to share for this Met Monday.  You may remember, back in November I updated the candle covers on the chandelier in the dining room. The old plastic covers had gradually yellowed over the past 16+ years and were looking pretty bad.  I also replaced the regular bulbs that were so glaring on the eyes with silk-wrapped bulbs. … [Read more...]

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Top 10 Faves On My Winter Survival List, 2013

January 18, 2013 by 96 Comments

Last winter I put together a list of a few of my favorite things that help get me through the cold winter months.  I ask in that post what helps you survive the winter and your comments were filled with wonderful ideas and suggestions.  Thanks so much for sharing your fave winter survival tips. Since we're well into the throes of another winter, with at least two months ahead of us, I thought it would be … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Inspire

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A New Year’s Eve Table Setting

January 17, 2013 by 57 Comments

Welcome to the 228th Tablescape Thursday! Every year I plan to create a New Year's Eve table setting to share here on BNOTP and every year, time gets away from me and I never seem to get one done.  I've had an idea brewing in the back of mind forever.  Even though I didn't have a New Year's party this year, I decided to go ahead and put a table together just for fun.  Before I share my New Year's Eve … [Read more...]

Filed Under: New Year's Holiday Home, New Year's Table Settings, New Year's Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday, Tablescapes Holiday Tablescapes, The Holiday Home Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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The Proposal

January 15, 2013 by 87 Comments

Have you ever wondered where the house in the movie, The Proposal, is located?  Or, have you ever wondered if it's a real home, a movie set or a "fake" house built just for the movie? The House in the Movie, The Proposal Imagine one day there's a knock at your door.  You answer and a smiling movie-location-scout is asking to use your home for the upcoming movie, The Proposal, starring Sandra Bullock and … [Read more...]

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Office Update: Finally Found the Right Spot

January 14, 2013 by 142 Comments

Welcome to the 208th Metamorphosis Monday! How was your weekend?  We've been having unusually warm weather...70 degrees out on the porch yesterday and today.  Crazy!  This is January, right?  Yesterday was my birthday and I'm not sure when I remember a birthday this warm.  Loving it while it last, though. I have a small Before/After for this Met Monday, one I thought I'd share in case it's helpful or … [Read more...]

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A New Year’s Table Setting with Pottery Barn Clock Plates

January 10, 2013 by 33 Comments

Welcome to the 227th Tablescape Thursday! My friend, Bonnie, rang in the New Year with a wonderful dinner party.  Bonnie said, "The day started out on a beautiful note.... with snow!"   What a gorgeous view! Let's go inside where it's nice and warm.  The table is all ready, even the chandelier is decorated for this celebration.  And look!  It's the Blue Hour! Bonnie's dining room is so … [Read more...]

Filed Under: New Year's Holiday Home, New Year's Table Settings, New Year's Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday, Tablescapes Holiday Tablescapes Tagged With: , , , , , ,

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The Christmas Tree Post: 23+ Themed Christmas Trees

January 8, 2013 by 57 Comments

Though Christmas is behind us now, I couldn't end this wonderful tour without putting together a Christmas Tree Tour post showcasing ALL the Christmas trees we saw while visiting Governor Roy and Marie Barnes beautiful home.  Marie told me she puts up 16 trees, 14 artificial and 2 live but there are lots of little ones all throughout the home and on the veranda, too.  Plus, there's the Christmas forest on … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Decor, Christmas Holiday Home, Mardi Gras Decor, The Holiday Home Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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A Fabulous Gift-Wrapping and Craft Room

January 7, 2013 by 56 Comments

Welcome to the 207th Metamorphosis Monday!   The last few weeks I've been sharing the amazing metamorphosis that happens each Christmas in the home of Governor and Marie Barnes.  It's been a joy to share their home decorated for this special holiday. This will be our last post, although I may put one together showing all the trees.  Marie decorates 16 trees and I don't think that's counting the fairyland … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Christmas Decor, Christmas Holiday Home, Christmas Home Tours, DIY Organization and Storage, The Holiday Home Tagged With: , , , , ,

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3 Party Table Settings with Coca-Cola Dishware and Coke Memorabilia

January 3, 2013 by 38 Comments

Welcome to 226th Tablescape Thursday! Greetings!  How is your week going?  I've been dragging my feet taking down my Christmas decorations.  I decided this year to not rush things and just enjoy them a little longer. The last few weeks we've been touring the wonderful home of Governor and Marie Barnes decorated for the Christmas season. Today we're going down these stairs for a tour of the … [Read more...]

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

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Tour a Beautiful Victorian Home Decorated for Christmas, Part VI

January 1, 2013 by 66 Comments

We're back today to tour the absolutely adorable room Marie Barnes, wife of Governor Roy Barnes, created for her four precious granddaughters.  I was thinking this would be the last post but I may have one more to share with you showing their terrace level with a wonderful "gifting wrapping station."  I had serious envy over that gift-wrapping room! As you enter this whimsical, delightful room Marie … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Decor, Christmas Holiday Home, Christmas Home Tours, The Holiday Home Tagged With: , , , , , ,

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A Cabin Renovation & Restoration on the Russian River

December 31, 2012 by 56 Comments

Welcome to the 206th Metamorphosis Monday! Recently I shared a wonderful Christmas table setting created by Julio who blogs at Beaux Mondes Design.  It was all I could do to not spill ALL the beans last Tablescape Thursday because I was dying to show you more of this wonderful cabin. When Julio and Dan bought their "Russian River Dacha" it was in need of some serious restoration love.  The previous … [Read more...]

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Tour a Beautiful Victorian Home Decorated for Christmas, Part V

December 29, 2012 by 71 Comments

Happy Weekend!  I don't always post on the weekend but we're smack-dab in the middle of touring this beautiful Victorian home belonging to Governor Roy and Marie Barnes, so I didn't want to leaving you hanging for too long.  If you missed any of the previous posts, you’ll find links to those at the end of this post. Today we'll be touring some of the upstairs bedrooms, but before we head up I'll share a … [Read more...]

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Tour a Beautiful Victorian Home Decorated for Christmas, Part IV

December 28, 2012 by 17 Comments

This week we’re continuing our tour inside the beautiful Victorian home belonging to Governor Roy and Marie Barnes.  If you missed any of the previous posts, you’ll find links to those at the end of this post. The Barnes home is perfect for entertaining and family gatherings.  The kitchen/breakfast area is open to this beautiful great room.  I love the coffered ceiling!  See the doorway on the left?  The … [Read more...]

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Dinner In A Cabin On The Russian River

December 27, 2012 by 31 Comments

Welcome to the 225th Tablescape Thursday! This week you are in for a special treat.  Julio who blogs at Beaux Mondes Designs created a beautiful tables setting in his wonderful cabin in Russian River, California.  I'm absolutely mad about plaid so when I saw this setting, I couldn't wait to share it for Tablescape Thursday. Julio's dining room is amazing, even without a wonderful table setting.  What … [Read more...]

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

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Tour a Beautiful Victorian Home Decorated for Christmas, Part III

December 26, 2012 by 51 Comments

This week we’re continuing our tour inside the beautiful Victorian home belonging to Governor Roy and Marie Barnes.  If you missed any of the previous posts, you'll find links to those at the end of this post. The Barnes' have a dream kitchen!  The red accents really pop against the cream/ivory cabinets and the black island.  The island is distressed and has red tones showing through in the distressed … [Read more...]

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Tour a Beautiful Victorian Home Decorated for Christmas, Part II

December 24, 2012 by 29 Comments

Welcome to the 205th Metamorphosis Monday! Happy Holidays!  All this week we'll be continuing our tour inside this beautiful Victorian home belonging to Governor Roy and Marie Barnes.  If you missed any of the previous posts, I'll link to them at the end of this post. This beautiful home has been transformed for the holidays.  Marie starts the metamorphosis in August so everything is ready in time for … [Read more...]

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Birdwatching: Cardinals, Bluebirds and Woodpeckers Came Calling

December 21, 2012 by 57 Comments

A few minutes after I put up this mornings post, a male Eastern Bluebird stopped by...sooo cute!  The following photos were taken through the glass of my bay window with a Nikon D7000 and my 18-200mm zoom lens.  Hope you enjoy. Then along came Mr. Cardinal which didn't please a little Nuthatch who waited patiently for him to leave. Mrs. Cardinal came by to check out the new … [Read more...]

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Solmate Socks and Wild Birds Unlimited

December 21, 2012 by 28 Comments

I noticed this morning my feeder was almost empty so I headed over to my very favorite birding store, Wild Birds Unlimited on Piedmont Road in Marietta, GA.  The folks who work in this location are so wonderful.  They bend over backwards to help you solve any squirrel problems and can answer any question you can dream up about birds. I bought a bag of Choice Blend.  The birds love this stuff!   In … [Read more...]

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A Christmas Dinner Party

December 20, 2012 by 72 Comments

Welcome to the 224th Tablescape Thursday! Three or four weeks ago I posted this tablescape below for a Tablescape Thursday.  Sunday I had a little dinner party and at first I set the table with my Lenox, Winter Greetings pattern.  At the last minute, I decided the table was feeling a bit more formal than I wanted for this gathering.  I wanted our party to feel more cozy and casual.  So I decided to … [Read more...]

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

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Tour a Beautiful Victorian Home Decorated for Christmas

December 19, 2012 by 48 Comments

Last week for Tablescape Thursday,  I took you inside the beautiful Victorian home of Governor Roy and Marie Barnes.  If you missed that post where I shared four beautiful tablescapes Marie created for Christmas, you'll find it here: Four Beautiful Table Settings, One Gorgeous Victorian Home. I have so many wonderful rooms to share with you, it's going to take several posts to share them all.  I want to … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Decor, Christmas Holiday Home, Christmas Home Tours, The Holiday Home

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Coping, Or So I Thought

December 18, 2012 by 63 Comments

I've been kind of in a deep funk all day.  I was so busy on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, getting everything ready for the small dinner party I had Sunday night, I really didn't have time to think about much else.  Over the last few days I've been listening to the news about the horrible tragedy in Connecticut and reading a good bit about it online.  I think the culmination of it all just finally got to … [Read more...]

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Decorating the Porch with Cedar Garland and a Snowflake Wreath

December 17, 2012 by 100 Comments

Welcome to the 204th Metamorphosis Monday! For this Met Monday, I'm sharing my front porch decor for the holidays. Once again I used my Pottery Barn Knock-off Garland along with fresh cedar around the door.  (Pottery Barn Knock-off Garland tutorial can be found here: Pottery Barn Inspired Garland Tutorial: Make Your Own for 1/3 the cost.)   One change this year...the cedar garland has … [Read more...]

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

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Preparations for a Christmas Dinner Party

December 15, 2012 by 76 Comments

I'm having a little dinner party for eight this Sunday evening.  I've been busy decorating, cooking and cleaning, decorating, cooking and cleaning.  And, occasionally I've been doing some decorating, cooking and cleaning.  Did I mention I'm having a blast!  I love getting ready for a party, be it big or small. The porch is looking festive.  I'll share more of it with you on Monday for our Metamorphosis … [Read more...]

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Four Beautiful Christmas Table Settings

December 13, 2012 by 64 Comments

Welcome to the 223rd Tablescape Thursday! One of the absolute best parts about blogging is meeting wonderful readers who share similar interests.   A few months back I received an e-mail from Marie Barnes, inviting me for a "visit to her porch."  Marie and her husband, Governor Roy Barnes, moved four years ago from Mableton to Marietta to be closer to their children and grandchildren.  Before moving they … [Read more...]

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

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A Plaid Christmas & Lighting the Christmas Trees Via Remote

December 12, 2012 by 93 Comments

Lately I feel a bit like the rabbit in Alice in Wonderland.  I picture myself running around the house shouting, "I'm late, I'm late...for a very important date."  I've sort of gotten the cart before the horse this Christmas season.  I have all my gifts wrapped but one, yet I still haven't decorated around my front door. lol  Now what's wrong with that picture! I went shopping for fresh greenery late … [Read more...]

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Make a Wintry Snow Globe

December 11, 2012 by 25 Comments

I've had so much fun checking out all the "Before and Afters" linked for yesterday's Metamorphosis Monday party! Yesterday for Met Monday, I posted a garden transformation.  The Atlanta Botanical Gardens is beautifully illuminated now for their Garden Lights, Holiday Nights event.  Today's post is about another transformation, one you can make and give for Christmas or use for an upcoming dinner … [Read more...]

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Atlanta Botanical Garden: Garden Lights, Holiday Nights

December 10, 2012 by 51 Comments

Welcome to the 203rd Metamorphosis Monday! Recently the Atlanta Botanical Garden went through an amazing metamorphosis.  Each year during the Christmas season, the gardens become a magical fairyland.  A lovely friend of mine works there as a volunteer and she invited me along for the opening night this year.  It truly was awe-inspiring and I'm taking you along, too! Can you just imagine all the … [Read more...]

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Holiday China: Two Beautiful Giveaways from Noritake

December 7, 2012 by

Giveaway Winners: Thanks so much to all who entered the two giveaways for Noritake.  There were over 500 entries for this giveaway! Chosen by a Random Number Generator, the winners are: Sandi, who won the Holly and Berry Gold bowls... And Gina who won the Platinum Wave plates. Congrats to both winners and I'll be contacting you via email soon.   Happy Weekend!  I have … [Read more...]

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A Christmas Tablescape on the Porch

December 6, 2012 by 76 Comments

Welcome to the 222nd Tablescape Thursday! Here we are, on the porch in December!  This is the very first tablescape I've ever created on the porch during the month of December.  With temps in the 70's, I couldn't resist.  Seems a little strange having a bottle tree in view while gazing at a Christmas table setting.   This regal-looking guy was the inspiration for this weeks tablescape.  I … [Read more...]

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Christmas Home Tour by Candlelight

December 4, 2012 by 43 Comments

Saturday I went on a Christmas home tour with friends.  We did the "combination" tour which includes a daylight tour and a candlelight tour.  Each year when we go on the tour, it gives me an excuse to be a total goof ball (like I'm not the rest of the year) and decorate our Christmas chariot for the evening. I always add some faux garland to the cargo/luggage rack thingies on the top of the car.  The … [Read more...]

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Don’t Throw Out Those Dead Christmas Tree Lights

December 3, 2012 by 90 Comments

Welcome to the 202nd Metamorphosis Monday! Georgia is a crazy place to live, weather-wise.  If you have a convertible you're pretty much guaranteed a few days every single month, even during the wintertime, when you'll be able to throw down the top and enjoy the warm breezes. We're in one of those periods right now.  This was the scene in my kitchen yesterday.  The door to the porch was wide open and it … [Read more...]

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Christmas Banister Decorations: Create a Fantasy in Lights

November 30, 2012 by 49 Comments

Comment Replies That Never Arrived Recently, I became aware that the hundreds of replies I've made to comments left on posts over the last few months were never delivered to the lovely person who left the comment.  After spending several hours the last few days trying to figure it out, I finally decided to check with my hosting company on the slight chance they could help.  Turns out, they had some box … [Read more...]

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A Cozy, Woodland Setting

November 29, 2012 by 87 Comments

Welcome to the 221st Tablescape Thursday!  (Pssst:  The seasonal footer at the bottom of BNOTP is all decked out with Christmas and Holiday posts.) As I put this table setting together yesterday, I thought I was creating a Christmas tablescape.  Once I sat down and began writing my post, I realized this is really a great "transition" table, a table that's as much at home for a fall or Thanksgiving dinner … [Read more...]

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Colonial Williamsburg Apple Tree Form: Make Your Own

November 28, 2012 by 35 Comments

Back in December 2008, just 3-4 months after I began blogging, I created this Colonial Williamsburg style centerpiece for a Christmas party I had coming up.  I also used it for our Christmas table that year.  I make this centerpiece almost every Christmas.   It has to be my all time favorite Christmas table centerpiece. Sorry about the awful photography.  The camera I was using back in 2008 couldn't … [Read more...]

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Decking the Windows with Christmas Wreaths

November 27, 2012 by 56 Comments

Hanging Wreaths on Exterior Windows Sometimes I think I have decorating ADD.  Is there such a thing?  I was out of town much of last week so I'm way behind on my Christmas decorating.  I awoke yesterday when one goal in mind: hang all the Christmas wreaths on the windows outside. When nighttime arrived, not only were the wreaths not up, I hadn't even pulled them out of the hidey hole where they live … [Read more...]

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Open Up a Staircase and Create a Fabulous Mudroom

November 26, 2012 by 36 Comments

Welcome to the 201st Metamorphosis Monday!  Hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving! Recently, I was chatting via email with  Maggie from the blog, Crunchy Diva.  Maggie's been hard at work renovating her home and you're going to love her amazing staircase makeover and mudroom addition!   Here's Maggie to take you through this beautiful "Before and After." Hi folks! I’m Maggie from Crunchy Diva and I’m … [Read more...]

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Christmas Decor and Holiday Parties

November 23, 2012 by 38 Comments

How was your Thanksgiving?  Are you in a turkey coma?  Are you heading out to brave the Black Friday crowds?  If you get a steal today, leave me a comment and tell me what it was?  I don't usually head out on BF.  If I do it's usually late in the day when the real frenzy is over and the early birds are back home in bed recovering! Lots of folks have already started decorating for Christmas big time.  If … [Read more...]

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Happy Thanksgiving!

November 21, 2012 by 33 Comments

Welcome to 220th Tablescape Thursday!  I'm posting Tabescape Thursday early this week since tomorrow is Thanksgiving Day and it will be a busy day for everyone. I'm excited to share my friend, Bonnie's beautiful Thanksgiving table this week! Come a bit closer and soak up all the wonderful details. I love, love, love all the  rich fall colors in this setting.  Such a warm, inviting table for … [Read more...]

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Dining Room Addition: French-Pleated Check Draperies

November 19, 2012 by 125 Comments

Welcome to the 200th Metamorphosis Monday!  We've officially been celebrating your fabulous Before and Afters for 200 weeks now!  Wowza!  Thank you so much for joining the party each week and sharing your amazing creativity and talent!  I'm looking forward to 200 more! The Accidental Decorator: Well, the Accidental Decorator has been at it again.  As I've mentioned before, I seem to fall into some of the … [Read more...]

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Transform Your Chandelier with Resin Candle Covers and Silk-Wrapped Bulbs

November 16, 2012 by 65 Comments

Greetings!  How has your week been?  Are you ready for the weekend...the last weekend before Thanksgiving?  Doing any baking or cooking in advance?  Cleaning and readying the house for family?  This next week is going to be a busy one for many folks. Last week I wrote about a little "upgrade" I'm giving the chandelier in my dining room.  You can read the story of how I found/purchased this chandelier in … [Read more...]

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Thanksgiving Tablescape, 2012

November 15, 2012 by 90 Comments

Welcome to the 219th Tablescape Thursday! I'd also like to welcome listeners from the Bekah, Lynne, Thursdays show!  Thanks so much for stopping by and thanks to Bekah and Lynne for the shout-out today on their mid-morning show!   If you're looking for the home tour of the adorable cottage in the movie, The Holiday, you'll find it here:  Tour Rosehill Cottage from the movie, The Holiday. Thanksgiving … [Read more...]

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Never Buy Place Cards for Your Tablescape Again

November 13, 2012 by 41 Comments

I've been working on my Thanksgiving table setting this week and I had it almost finished when I realized how much I didn't like the way the place cards I was using looked with the autumn colors in my tablescape.  The only place cards I have are some I purchased a few years ago and they are stark white. I hopped in the car and headed over to a couple of home stores thinking I might find something in more … [Read more...]

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Best in the West: The Best-Dressed Table at the County Fair

November 8, 2012 by 33 Comments

Welcome to the 218th Tablescape Thursday! Recently, I was chatting via email with Dawnette.  She was telling me how she was inspired to participate in a competition for "the best dressed table" at her county fair this year.   Does the county fair do that in your town, too? Dawnette said, "The two table themes to chose from were Victorian for 2, which was the formal table and an Engagement Party for 4. … [Read more...]

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Beeswax Candle Covers and Satin-Wrapped Bulbs for Chandeliers

November 6, 2012 by 55 Comments

I've been working on a lot of little small projects around the house lately. One of the projects I have going right now involves the chandelier in my dining room.  In a previous post, I mentioned there was a little story that goes with this piece so I thought today might be a good day to share it.  Do you like little stories?  If so, grab a cup of coffee or a glass a wine and I'll share my chandelier … [Read more...]

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Labeling the Baskets in the Closet Expedit

November 5, 2012 by 50 Comments

Welcome to the 198th Metamorphosis Monday! Recently, I made a trip to a lighting store in search of some items to "upgrade" a chandelier in my home.  I'll be posting about that soon and can't wait to share it!   Ballard Designs outlet is just a few blocks away from the lighting store.  Since I'm rarely in that area, I decided to stop in. The parking lot was packed which is unusual even for a Saturday. … [Read more...]

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Two Whimsical Halloween Tablescapes

November 1, 2012 by 35 Comments

Welcome to the 217th Tablescape Thursday! What a night!  I had so many Trick-or-Treaters for Halloween.  Did you have many goblins and witches visiting your home last night?  Halloween is so different now than when I was a kid and out trick treating.  Back then (in the dark ages) the rule was you couldn't start until dark and we were always out really late.  Now, the kiddies start arriving early, usually … [Read more...]

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A New Lamp for the Office & A Little Halloween Fun

October 30, 2012 by 43 Comments

Before I share something fun and lighthearted (a nice distraction on this day) I just wanted to say my heart and prayers go out to all effected by Hurricane Sandy. ♥ A Little Halloween Decorating & A New Lamp for the Office If you've been following the progress of the office, you know I've been hoping to find some new lamps better suited for this space than the polished brass lamps I'm currently … [Read more...]

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Getting Organized: It’s the Garage This Time

October 29, 2012 by 93 Comments

Welcome to the 197th Metamorphosis Monday! Have you ever done this? Sunday I drove over to the dollar store in search of a clear glass vase or some clear glass votives for a little project I had in mind for Met Monday.   I found votives that were just right but didn't put them in the shopping cart immediately.  I thought I'd look around the store a bit to make sure they were what I really wanted to … [Read more...]

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Stencil Your Room Beautiful: Eye-Candy and a Wonderful Giveaway for Your Weekend

October 26, 2012 by 151 Comments

Thanks to all who entered the giveaway from Cutting Edge Stencils.  Chosen by random number generator, the winner is:  Aurora m.   Thanks again to all who entered.  If you didn't win, check out the giveaway from Banarsi that is still going on and will be ending soon.   Happy Friday!  Are you looking forward to your weekend?  The Country Living Craft Fair is going on here in Atlanta … [Read more...]

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Halloween Tablescape with Spider Cupcakes

October 25, 2012 by 70 Comments

Welcome to the 216th Tablescape Thursday! The Witching Hour: Ever since I made knock-off Pottery Barn clock plates, I've been eager to use them in a table setting.  They are finally making their appearance in a table  I'm dubbing, The Witching Hour, a term (per Wikipedia) first used in Washington Irving's short story, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, to signify midnight. When I read that in Wikipedia, I … [Read more...]

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New Uses for Discarded or Recycled Windows

October 23, 2012 by 64 Comments

A few years ago I stumbled across some old windows in one of my fave antiquing haunts.  They were only $2 each so I bought several thinking one day I might make one of these.  Come a bit closer and check it out.   Isn't it adorable?  Let's peek inside.   Love!   I didn't buy it since I don't have a great place where I can display it.  Plus, it was over $300!   Probably worth it though … [Read more...]

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HomeZada, Software to Manage Your Home and Makeover Project: Awesome Giveaway

October 22, 2012 by 65 Comments

Thanks so much to all who entered the HomeZada Giveaway.  With this giveaway, really everyone is a winner because with the basic membership (which is free) you create a home inventory, upload property documents and contacts for easy access and create seasonal checklists to help maintain your home.   So if you didn't win, have fun using the basic membership! Chosen by random number generator, the winner … [Read more...]

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Pillow Talk

October 20, 2012 by 61 Comments

It's the weekend!  Have you anything special planned this beautiful fall day? I'm looking forward to a very special evening.  A friend of mine had a kidney transplant a year ago and he's throwing a party to celebrate that he's had no problems, no rejection and has been able to enjoy a full year off dialysis.  The guest of honor for the party will be his donor, a dear friend of his, who in an unbelievably … [Read more...]

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Elegant & Eerie Halloween Tablescape

October 18, 2012 by 56 Comments

Welcome to the 215th Tablescape Thursday!  I'm so excited to share a fabulously spooky table from my friend, Bonnie.  I must caution though, be sure to watch where you're walking.  Bonnie seems to have a bit of a bat and crow infestation in her home at the moment.  I think I see one now above that gorgeous mirror.  Shhh, if we're really quiet, maybe we won't disturb him.   Come have a seat, your … [Read more...]

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

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Contemplating New Window Treatments for the Family Room

October 16, 2012 by 153 Comments

For many, many years my family room looked like this.  About ten months ago I nixed all the faux greenery on that end of the room.  It was all looking pretty faded and tired, so it was time for a change.   I haven't missed the greenery at all.  The de-fauxing took place right after Christmastime last year so my tree was still up.   See those cascades/jabots.  They have been hanging … [Read more...]

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Make Pumpkin Topiaries for an Autumn Porch

October 15, 2012 by 124 Comments

Welcome to the 195th Metamorphosis Monday! Right after I added a front porch onto my home around 4 years ago, I bought some faux topiaries from a local store here in Atlanta.  I would have loved real topiaries on the porch, but I knew I'd never remember to keep them watered and they probably wouldn't survive in the shade of the porch. The faux topiaries turned out to be an expensive mistake.  They … [Read more...]

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Upgrading the Necessary Room

October 12, 2012 by 66 Comments

Good morning!  It's Friday!  Are you looking forward to the weekend?  I really wanted to spend the weekend going on the Georgia Trust Ramble in LaGrange, GA, but instead I'll be staying home getting some cleaning and other  non-fun stuff done around here.  Yuck...tours are way more fun. Speaking of things that are less-than-fun, this is what was happening in my home this morning at 8:30 AM.  Two new … [Read more...]

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Beautiful Table Setting with Villeroy & Boch, Manoir and Paseo Gien

October 11, 2012 by 34 Comments

Welcome to the  214th Tablescape Thursday! Good Morning on this gorgeous fall day!  I have a beautiful table setting to share with you!  But first, I just had to say I was sooo touched by all the wonderful dreams you expressed in your comments yesterday.  There's nothing I can say except, Wow!  I hope every single one comes true. Every single one!  ♥ Tablescape Thursday: For this Tablescape Thursday, … [Read more...]

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What Would You Do If Money Were No Object?

October 10, 2012 by 71 Comments

Over two years ago I created a post and asked the simple question, "What would you do if you knew you could not fail?"  The comments/answers were wonderful, insightful and inspiring.  I know we all use that word "inspiring" a lot these days, but the comments truly were inspiring.  If you didn't get a chance to read that post and the comments, you'll find it here:  What Would You Do If You Knew You Could Not … [Read more...]

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A Fall Door Arrangement You Can Make in 5 Minutes (or less)

October 9, 2012 by 36 Comments

Earlier in the fall I made this arrangement for my front door.  It can be viewed in more detail in this post:  An Autumn Basket for the Front Door   For Halloween, there's some strange things happening on the front porch.  The earlier fall arrangement just wasn't working anymore.  It was a bit too dressy/formal for Halloween.   I decided to create  something a little more casual … [Read more...]

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Make a Crow Tree Centerpiece for Halloween

October 8, 2012 by 66 Comments

Welcome to the 194th Metamorphosis Monday!  So, tell me!  How was your weekend?  It was really pretty here in Georgia, perfect fall weather.  I've been finishing up some last-minute decorating on my porch...I'll be sharing that soon. A few days ago for Tablescape Thursday, I shared a fun Halloween inspired table setting with a crow tree centerpiece.   For Metamorphosis Monday I'm sharing … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, DIY Crafts & Sewing, DIY Decor Knock-offs, Halloween Crafts, Halloween Decor, Halloween Holiday Home, Halloween Table Settings, Halloween Tablescapes Tagged With: , , ,

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Show Your Colors and Showcase Your Fabulous Before and After

October 5, 2012 by 35 Comments

Greetings!  It's Friday!  Have any projects around the house you'll be working on this weekend?  Any painting projects?  If so, I have a little sumpin', sumpin' to get you inspired and raring to go! In March, I shared about an exciting new site by Glidden called My Colortopia.   My Colortopia was especially designed to help us DIYers when we're agonizing over finding the right paint color … [Read more...]

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Halloween Tablescape with a Crow Tree Centerpiece

October 4, 2012 by 54 Comments

Welcome to the 213th Tablescape Thursday! Last Valentine's Day I created a little "heart" tree for a Valentine's Day Tablescape. (Tablescape can be viewed here: Valentine's Day Tablescape)   Ever since, I've been itching to try that again.   Recently, I spied this spooky tree in a Pottery Barn catalog.   PB calls it a "Spooky Aspen Branch" and it can be found here where the two photos … [Read more...]

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Shhh, It’s a Surprise Present & A Fabulous Giveaway

October 2, 2012 by 115 Comments

Thanks to everyone who entered the giveaway from Canvas Photo Company!  Chosen via a Random Number Generator, the winner is Diane.  I'll be contacting Diane at the email she entered with her comment.    Thanks again to Canvas Photo Company for Sponsoring this wonderful giveaway!   A few months ago my son, Chip, married his beautiful sweetheart, Nancy in a ceremony held inside the historic … [Read more...]

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Decorating the Screened Porch for Fall & Halloween

October 1, 2012 by 97 Comments

Welcome to the 193rd Metamorphosis Monday! Greetings!  How was your weekend? If you follow BNOTP on Facebook, you know what I was up to this weekend and WOW, am I tired!  It's a good tired, though.  I spent much of the weekend decorating the porches for fall and Halloween. For this Met Monday, I'm sharing some fun changes I made to my favorite "room" in the house, the screened-in porch.  It was … [Read more...]

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Fall Dining on the Porch & A Book-Themed Centerpiece

September 27, 2012 by 69 Comments

Welcome to the 212th Tablescape Thursday! Yesterday, I posted some pictures of the mantel in the family room all dressed for autumn.  It became the inspiration for this week's Tablescape Thursday.   Often, the treasures we love and use when decorating our home work well in a centerpiece for a table setting, too.   I almost put this tablescape in my dining room since the colors are … [Read more...]

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Warming Up With a Fall Mantel

September 26, 2012 by 29 Comments

Though the days are still nice and warm here, there's a definite chill in the air each evening.  I haven't decorated my mantel this year yet, but I thought I'd share a few pics from a previous year.   I've had this wreath for several years, but I still love it.  It's probably the most realistic "faux" wreath I've ever come across.   Books warm up any room...you can never go wrong with … [Read more...]

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Send Me No Flowers

September 24, 2012 by 85 Comments

A while back I had a Doris Day, Rock Hudson movie marathon weekend.  I watched the Romance Collection which included Pillow Talk, Lover Come Back and Send Me No Flowers.  They were all great and each one contained a great movie house or two. In August I took you on a tour of the swanky New York apartments of Doris and Rock (Jerry and Carol) in the movie, Lover Come Back.  You'll find that tour here: … [Read more...]

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Historic Swiss Ski Cabin Renovation & Restoration

September 24, 2012 by 59 Comments

Welcome to the 192nd Metamorphosis Monday! How was your weekend?   Do anything fun?  Are you enjoying these beautiful fall days or do you live in an area where spring is just getting underway?  It's been really pretty here in Atlanta.  I spent the weekend going out to eat and to the movies with a friend.   Then I worked on a little project, a project I hope to share soon. For this Metamorphosis … [Read more...]

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The Georgia Aquarium: An Awe-Inspiring Visit

September 22, 2012 by 27 Comments

Recently a friend and I visited the Georgia Aquarium, the largest aquarium in the world.   Though it opened here in Atlanta several years ago, this was my first visit.   We purposely timed our visit until school was back in session hoping to avoid big crowds.  I'm not a huge fan of crowds...would rather see something on TV than in person if it means standing in lines forever and then fighting crowds to see … [Read more...]

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Table Settings for Two

September 20, 2012 by 31 Comments

Welcome to the 211th Tablescape Thursday! Last Tablescape Thursday I put together a little autumn table setting for two.  I always love creating and photographing a table for two.  Besides the obvious, the number of place settings, they always feel very different from larger tables with four, six or more place settings.  They often end up with a romantic feel, probably because by nature they're so cozy. … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Tables for Two, Tablescape Thursday, Tablescapes Occasion Tagged With: , ,

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DIY Frosted Candlelit Lantern for Halloween

September 19, 2012 by 36 Comments

  I know Halloween is still a good distance off, but if I share this too close to Halloween, you may not be able to find one of the "ingredients" I used.  So, bear with me if I share some things with you a bit in advance. I've been itching to try my hand at making a frosted lantern with Krylon's Glass Frosting.  Have you ever used it? To make a Halloween lantern, you'll need a few basic … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY Crafts & Sewing, Halloween Crafts, Halloween Decor, Halloween Holiday Home Tagged With: , , , ,

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Squirrel Wars: The Latest Trick Up My Sleeve

September 17, 2012 by 81 Comments

Welcome to the 191st Metamorphosis Monday! I spent mine running lots of errands and trying to get a few things done around the house.  A long while back I shared this view of my screened-in porch.  As you can see it is a full story up and I have bird feeders hanging from shepherd's hooks off the decks on either side of the porch.   The feeder on the left is hanging from the deck that holds a table with … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, For the Love of Birds, Gardening & Birding, Nature Tagged With: , , ,

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Stolen Content: This is How It Looks

September 14, 2012 by 75 Comments

Happy Friday Evening!  I'm excited to announce the Seasonal Footer here at BNOTP is all updated for the Fall Season.  Linked in the  footer at the bottom of the BNOTP home page, you'll find posts about Autumn Decorating, Fall Dining, Halloween Crafts & Decor and Halloween Tablescapes.  Once Halloween has passed, I'll change the Halloween categories out to Thanksgiving related posts.  Hope you are … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Blogging, DIY

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