In The BNOTP Library: Mario Buatta, Fifty Years of American Interior Decoration

May 30, 2014 by 8 Comments

I discovered the designer, Mario Buatta, kind of late in life but loved his work as soon as I saw it. I immediately Googled to find a book by him and couldn't believe there were none! What?!!  I was beyond excited when I read someone finally convinced him to do a book. Of course, when you're an Interior Designer for 50 years and never write a single book, when you do, it's a whopper! A 432 page … [Read more...]

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Dining in Beautiful San Francisco Plantation, Garyville, Louisiana

May 29, 2014 by 23 Comments

Welcome to the 298th Tablescape Thursday! While on vacation in Louisiana and Mississippi a few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to tour San Francisco Plantation in Garyville, Louisiana. Linda and I were really lucky because the day we toured it was the absolute last day it would be open for the whole summer. San Francisco is going through a restoration all this summer and will reopen for tours on … [Read more...]

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In The BNOTP Library: P. Allen Smith’s Container Gardens

May 28, 2014 by 12 Comments

I love container gardening during the summer months because it let's you grow your fave flowers where you can really see and enjoy them, right on your porch, patio, balcony or deck. After this morning's post filled with lots of container gardening, I thought I'd share a book I've had for a while on this subject. It's another one by one of my favorite authors...can you guess who?   In the … [Read more...]

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Tree Form Tardiva Hydrangea Adds Privacy and Screening To The Deck

May 28, 2014 by 62 Comments

Every year I spruce up the deck a bit for the spring/summer season. I've delayed this year because I've been getting estimates for having the porch and decks pressure washed and painted and it didn't make sense to buy plants and fill up all the pots if they were all going to have to be moved, come painting time. Once plans for a Memorial Day cookout got underway, I threw caution to the wind and started … [Read more...]

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In The BNOTP Library: Southern Cocktails

May 27, 2014 by 17 Comments

After Linda and I finished touring Stanton Hall in Natchez, Mississippi a few weeks ago, we headed for the gift shop. Almost all the homes we toured had gift shops and visiting those was so much fun because so many of the items in the shops were home and entertaining related. Several of the gift shops had a nice selection of books. I loved looking at the titles and jotted down bunches I wanted to … [Read more...]

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Refreshing Sangria, Perfect Beverage For A Summer Party

May 27, 2014 by 29 Comments

I LOVED all the stories you shared in the comments of yesterday's post. They were awesome and some had me laughing! Thanks so much for those! Yesterday I shared some pics of a yummy party beverage I made on Sunday for a porch party with friends. Today I'm sharing the recipe, including a printable copy below. Note: The Sangria looks a little darker in this picture than it does once it's served because just … [Read more...]

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After The Party

May 26, 2014 by 72 Comments

Welcome to the 278th Metamorphosis Monday! It's 4:00 on a Sunday afternoon. Three friends will be arriving for a cookout in one hour. Everything is ready. Somehow the party faeries have all conspired in my favor and I'm actually running ahead of schedule. There may even be time for a few minutes on the porch alone before the guests arrive. I open the refrigerator to pour myself a cold drink and OMG, I … [Read more...]

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Greenwood Plantation, St. Francisville, Louisiana: Part II

May 23, 2014 by 18 Comments

Earlier this week we toured the downstairs rooms in Greenwood Plantation, a plantation home located in St. Francisville Louisiana. If you missed that post, you'll find it here: Greenwood Plantation, St. Francisville, Louisiana: Part I. You may want to read that post first and then come back to this one. You'll find a link to this post at the end of that first post about Greenwood. Greenwood saw a … [Read more...]

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In The BNOTP Library: Southern Lady Gracious Tables

May 22, 2014 by 17 Comments

While we continue visiting and enjoying all the wonderful tables linked for Tablescape Thursday today, here's a great book from my library, filled with lots of inspiration for setting beautiful tables.  You may recognize the author, Phyllis Hoffman; she's the President of Hoffman Media which produces so many great lifestyle magazines including Southern Lady, The Cottage Journal, Tea Time, Bliss … [Read more...]

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Celebrate Spring With A Beach Themed Table Setting For Two

May 22, 2014 by 56 Comments

Welcome to the 297th Tablescape Thursday! It's been a while since I created a setting for two and a really long time since I put together a tablescape on this little oval table here on the porch.   You may remember the lantern from a previous beach themed table setting here: Beachy Tablescape With Lighthouse Lantern   Glassware for this table setting is from Pier 1. It's … [Read more...]

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Greenwood Plantation, St. Francisville, Louisiana: Part I

May 20, 2014 by 33 Comments

Greenwood Plantation, A Greek Revival Home in St. Francisville, Louisiana Greenwood Plantation, a Greek Revival home in St. Francisville, Louisiana, was one of my favorite homes of all the homes my friend, Linda and I toured on our trip to Louisiana. Greenwood is located in West Feliciana Parish which is about an hour's drive north of Baton Rouge.   In 1960, something terrible happened to … [Read more...]

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Lewis’s Woodpecker & Rose-Breasted Grosbeak In A Spring Garden

May 19, 2014 by 68 Comments

Welcome to the 277th Metamorphosis Monday! Recently my friend, Bonnie, who lives in the beautiful state of Oregon, shared a few pics with me via e-mail of the wonderful view from her deck. I don't have any "Before" winter pics to share but the "After" is stunning! Is this not gorgeous?! Spring has sprung in the state of Oregon and it's absolutely beautiful! The wisteria running along the fence in … [Read more...]

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Faerie Houses in the Garden, A Sunday Garden Tour

May 18, 2014 by 13 Comments

Sharing a few more pics from a garden tour I took recently in my home town.   Look! A garden seat that's actually in the garden! :) I'm so used to seeing them used inside in all the decor magazines and ads, I was actually surprised to see one out in a garden. The bench with the built in birdhouse is just so cute!   Did you know there's a climbing hydrangea?  I did not know … [Read more...]

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In the BNOTP Library: The Gardener’s Life by Larry Sheehan

May 17, 2014 by 4 Comments

When I order a new book from Amazon, one of the first things I do when it arrives is lift off the dust jacket to see how the book looks underneath. I absolutely love it when a book has a fabulous cover, one that would look wonderful on my bookshelf if one day the dust jacket became damaged or worn. Some of my favorite covers are those that completely mimic the dust jacket with a cover that's the exact … [Read more...]

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

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The Colorful Shutters of New Orleans, Plus A Video

May 16, 2014 by 38 Comments

When I was in New Orleans last week, I had a love affair with their colorful shutters. They were everywhere in the French Quarter, as were lots of pretty wrought-iron balconies decorated with window boxes spilling their flowers out into the streets.   Color!   Vivid beautiful color!   I was fascinated by all the shutters--shutters with real working parts that … [Read more...]

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Dining in Rosedown Plantation, St. Francisville, Louisiana

May 15, 2014 by 73 Comments

Welcome to the 296th Tablescape Thursday! Last week while touring plantation homes across Louisiana and Mississippi, I was happy to discover photography was allowed in almost every home we toured. Today we are venturing inside the beautiful dining room of Rosedown Plantation. As you can see in this picture from Wikipedia below, Oak Alley Plantation isn't the only Louisiana plantation home with a … [Read more...]

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In The BNOTP Library: Southern Style

May 13, 2014 by Leave a Comment

In this BNOTP Library feature, I'm sharing the book that started me on the quest to collect lots of colorful bottles. Can you guess why?   In the BNOTP Library: Southern Style Author: Mark Mayfield Hardcover: 208 pages Book size: 11.5 x 9.5 x .8 inches     3 Things I Like About This Book: This is the book that made me fall in love with bottle trees and convinced … [Read more...]

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Historic Arlington, Home To Raccoons Now

May 13, 2014 by 58 Comments

I've been going through the thousands of photos I took last week while touring 13+ historic, plantation homes in the states of Louisiana and Mississippi.  As I was looking through some of the pictures today, one particular home still haunts me from the trip, Historic Arlington. Arlington is a Federal style home located in Natchez, Mississippi. It was built in 1816 by John Hampton White and his wife, Jane … [Read more...]

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Inspiration & Whimsy For The Garden

May 12, 2014 by 48 Comments

Welcome to the 276th Metamorphosis Monday! How was your weekend? Was it busy with spring chores are spring fun? Sometimes they are the same thing, aren't they? I have some fun "Before & After" gardening ideas to share today, pulled from a wonderful garden tour I attended locally on Saturday thanks to my friend, Carra who generously shared her tickets when it turned out she wouldn't be able to … [Read more...]

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Motherhood: The Longest-Running Continuous Production Of Your Life

May 11, 2014 by 31 Comments

Happy Mother's Day!   I miss Erma. Happy Mother's Day to Mothers everywhere! Source: The Gettysburg Times … [Read more...]

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In The BNOTP Library: P. Allen Smith’s Garden Home

May 9, 2014 by 22 Comments

I used to love watching P. Allen Smith when he was on TV. He may still be on TV, does anyone know? Many years ago when he was the speaker at a spring garden tour in Macon, Georgia, I drove down with a friend to attend the tour and hear him speak. I was so impressed with how down-to-earth and nice he was. Over the years I've purchase a number of his books and the one I'm sharing today is my favorite because … [Read more...]

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Sunny Spring Table Setting

May 8, 2014 by 25 Comments

Welcome to the 295th Tablescape Thursday! Has it been rainy lately in your area? It was here for a while but we have sunny days again now and I'm so glad! During a recent rainy day Pinky who blogs at Designs by Pinky, created a table setting guaranteed to make any gloomy day a whole lot more cheerful. Pinky wanted to add a bit of texture to this setting. Rattan chargers worked great to add that … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday

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In The BNOTP Library: The Conservatory Book

May 7, 2014 by 5 Comments

I love the look and romance of a beautiful conservatory. Remember the one in the movie, Practical Magic?  I loved that conservatory! The book I'm sharing today will have you dreaming of beautiful conservatories.   In the BNOTP Library: The Conservatory Book Author: Peter Marston Hardcover: 160 pages Book size: 11.7 x 9.6 x 0.8   3 Things I Like About This Book: Pictures … [Read more...]

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Freshen Up a Sunroom With A Garden Inspired Design

May 7, 2014 by 43 Comments

It's springtime, time to dress up those special rooms in our homes where the sun streams in on long summer days. Need a little inspiration to get you going? Oh my, you are in for a treat today because Shirley is sharing her sunroom makeover and it is wonderful! Welcome, Shirley and thanks so much for letting us tour your beautiful sunroom today!   Hello Between Naps on the Porch readers! My … [Read more...]

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In The BNOTP Library: Enchanted Circles

May 6, 2014 by 2 Comments

After seeing Christy's beautiful hydrangea wreath this morning, what better book to share from my library than one that's all about making beautiful wreaths for each season of the year.   In the BNOTP Library: Enchanted Circles Author: Elizabeth Jane Lloyd Hardcover: 128 pages Book size: 0.5 x 9.2 x 9.8   3 Things I Like About This Book: Sections of book are divided up … [Read more...]

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Make a Hydrangea Wreath for Spring

May 6, 2014 by 17 Comments

Have you decorated your front door for the spring season, yet? Shhh, don't tell anyone but I haven't either. I love what Christy did with her front door, though! It's beautiful and I'm so glad she's here today to show us how to dress up our door for spring.   Hi, I'm Christy and I am so thrilled (seriously, ya'll) to be guest hosting at Between Naps on the Porch today! I have been following … [Read more...]

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Jazzing Up a Porch For Springtime Enjoyment

May 5, 2014 by 41 Comments

Welcome to the 275th Metamorphosis Monday! I love, love, love how the days are getting longer. Okay, the days aren't really getting longer but you know what I mean. The daylight is staying with us more and more and I just love it! With more daylight hours for playing, it's time to get out there and spruce up our outdoor spaces and that's exactly what Mary and Dave from Front Porch Ideas and More did … [Read more...]

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In The BNOTP Library: Chris Madden, The Soul Of A House

May 3, 2014 by 16 Comments

Chris Madden, The Soul of a House, is the first book of Chris Madden's that I ever purchased. I liked it so much, I immediately ordered two of her previous books. Isn't it wonderful when a book is so good, you can't wait to buy others by the same author. I love that and I do it often when I find an author or designer I really like.   In the BNOTP Library: Chris Madden The Soul of a House: … [Read more...]

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In the BNOTP Library: Classic English Interiors

May 2, 2014 by 4 Comments

It was a happy day the day I discovered books authored by Designer, Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill, the elder daughter of the 11th Duke of Marlborough. I don't remember which of her books was the first one I purchased, but once it arrived, I was hooked. I immediately began ordering others. I just counted before I started writing this post and I have 7 of her books, so far. Love them … [Read more...]

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5 Creative Centerpieces For The Spring or Summer Table

May 1, 2014 by 33 Comments

Welcome to the 294th Tablescape Thursday! Hope you're having a wonderful week!  For this week's Tablescape Thursday, I'm sharing links to 5 DIY centerpiece tutorials you can make for your spring or summer table settings. (I'm actually showing six centerpieces below, but two are made using the same idea/tutorial.) These were all easy and fun to make...hope you enjoy!   This spring … [Read more...]

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In The BNOTP Library: At Home With Books

April 30, 2014 by 10 Comments

A room without books is like a body without a soul. ~Cicero When I have a little money, I buy books; and if I have any left, I buy food and clothes. ~Desiderius Erasmus I would be most content if my children grew up to be the kind of people who think decorating consists mostly of building enough bookshelves.~Anna Quindlen "Enough Bookshelves," New York Times, August 7, 1991 I love books. I love … [Read more...]

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In the BNOTP Library: Living With Dogs

April 29, 2014 by 7 Comments

I'll be back later today with a post. In the meantime, I'm sharing another one of my fave books from the BNOTP library. You guys know I'm huge animal lover so when I first saw this book, it definitely grabbed my attention. The cover was just so beautiful and included two of my favorite things in the whole world, animals and books. When I realized the book also included some gorgeous interiors, because after … [Read more...]

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A Cure for Sagginess

April 28, 2014 by 103 Comments

Welcome to the 274th Metamorphosis Monday! How was your weekend? Hope it was grand! I spent much of my weekend pouring through One Man's Folly, a book I had pre-ordered and have been eagerly awaiting its arrival. I rarely pre-order a book but this one sounded like it was going to be amazing from the articles I had read online. Oh, my gosh...is it ever! Such a wonderful book! I have so enjoyed every … [Read more...]

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In The BNOTP Library: One Man’s Folly by Julia Reed

April 26, 2014 by 13 Comments

We interrupt this weekend with a book alert! :)  Soooo excited, I can't help myself. I rarely pre-order books, usually wait until they've been out a while and buy them used, but this one sounded so amazing in an article I read recently, I just knew it was going to be wonderful..and it is! My copy just arrived in the mail today and I'm in love!   In the BNOTP Library: One Man's Folly: The … [Read more...]

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In The BNOTP Library: Mary Emmerling’s Beach Cottages

April 25, 2014 by 8 Comments

Happy Friday! I'll have a post up a little later today, working on it now. In the meantime I'm sharing another book from my decor library. Since I've been on such a beach kick this spring, I thought I'd share one more beach-themed book from the BNOTP library. I already own two other books by Mary Emmerling so when I ordered this book a couple of years ago, I had a feeling I would like it and I … [Read more...]

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Dining With Seagulls

April 24, 2014 by 88 Comments

Welcome to the 293rd Tablescape Thursday! Hope you're in the mood for a beach party because lately all I want to do is create beach-themed table settings. Ummm, wonder what that means? Perhaps someone is craving a trip to the beach! :)   Remember the fishnet I purchased on THIS shopping trip when I couldn't breathe and had to get out of the house?   It worked just right as a … [Read more...]

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In the BNOTP Library: Storybook Style

April 23, 2014 by 2 Comments

Yesterday we toured a wonderful storybook home, Cotchford Farm, the home of author A. A. Milne who created the delightful storybook world of Winnie-the-Pooh. If you love storybook homes, you will love the book I'm sharing today from the BNOTP library.   In the BNOTP Library: Storybook Style: America's Whimsical Homes of the Twenties Author: Arrol Gellner Hardcover: 192 pages Book size: 11.4 x … [Read more...]

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In the BNOTP Library: Barclay Butera Living on the Coast

April 22, 2014 by 4 Comments

Barclay Butera is a designer I only recently discovered back in spring of last year. I immediately loved what I saw of his work and ordered the book, Living on the Coast in April 2013.   By the way, this is another one of those books where the "preview" at Amazon is misleading and doesn't do the book justice. So many of the interiors they show are very neutral, but the book is filled with … [Read more...]

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25 Denim Bags & Purses Made From Recycled Jeans

April 21, 2014 by 38 Comments

Welcome to the 273rd Metamorphosis Monday! For this week's Met Monday, I thought it would be fun to share 25 fab Before and Afters. These "Befores" started out as old, out-of-style or too-worn jeans and turned into shiny, new purses and bags. To get the link for a particular tutorial, just click on the title of that post and it will take you to the post where you'll find the link for the … [Read more...]

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Inspiring Transformations For Your Weekend

April 20, 2014 by 16 Comments

Happy Easter! I haven't felt so well the last few days so this weekend I decided to just relax a bit and enjoy visiting some wonderful blogs. In my visiting, I found a few treasures that were just too good to not share. This kitchen renovation blew me away! I so wanted to post the "After" picture because it's amazing, but I didn't want to spoil the surprise for you. So, showing great restraint, I'm … [Read more...]

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In the BNOTP Library: The English Country House

April 18, 2014 by 5 Comments

After our tour this morning of  the grand Shakenhurst Estate in England, I thought I'd share a book I purchased back in August 2011 that is one of the most comprehensive and best books I've ever found on the English country house.  The English Country House by Mary Miers is truly in a class of its own.   In the BNOTP Library: The English Country House: From the Archives of Country … [Read more...]

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3 Easter Spring Table Settings

April 17, 2014 by 33 Comments

Welcome to the 292nd Tablescape Thursday! I don't have a new tablescape to share this week so I'm sharing a few pics from three previous Easter/Spring tablescapes. Click on the title of any tablescape below to view that table setting in detail. Easter Bunny's Magic Egg-hiding Compass Ever wonder how the Easter Bunny decides where to hide his eggs?  Now you know!  :)   Easter … [Read more...]

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A Surprise Visitor!

April 16, 2014 by 51 Comments

I'm back! I had hoped to get this post up this morning but it took a lot longer to go through all my photos than I ever anticipated. I've saved the best part for the end, a surprise visitor, so no peeking ahead!  :) With spring here, my backyard feeders have been going gangbusters. I always have a lot of birds visiting but it's busier than ever. It can be tricky photographing birds because if there's one … [Read more...]

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In the BNOTP Library: Decorating With China & Glass

April 16, 2014 by 5 Comments

I'm doing it backwards today. My post for today is taking a lot longer than I thought it would (took too many photos) so instead of posting a book from the BNOTP library at the end of the day, I'll go ahead and share it now. Today's book is for the china and dishware lovers...raising my hand! :) In the BNOTP Library: Decorating with China and Glass Author: Caroline Clifton-Mogg Hardcover: 192 … [Read more...]

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In the BNOTP Library: Waterside Cottages

April 15, 2014 by 16 Comments

With warm temperatures finally arriving and summer on its way, it's time for a summer cottage book. If you saw my Monday post, you know I've got beach fever these days big time.   In the BNOTP Library: Waterside Cottages Author: Barbara Jacksier Published: Gibbs Smith, August 2009 Hardcover: 160 pages Book size: 10.5 x 8.1 x 0.8   3 Things I Like About This … [Read more...]

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The Evolution of Kitchens Through the Years

April 15, 2014 by 47 Comments

I was looking at some photos recently online showing an original 1940's kitchen. It had been built and installed in 1946 in a home in Adrian, Michigan by Orville Merillat and his wife, Ruth. They built it all by hand since they hadn't started their cabinet making business yet. The Merillats eventually started the Merillat Woodworking Company and it went on to become the biggest cabinet-maker in … [Read more...]

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The Summer Porch: Beach Cottage Decor

April 14, 2014 by 94 Comments

Welcome to the 272nd Metamorphosis Monday! It's been beautiful here so I've been playing out on the porch. This is how the hutch normally looks during the spring and summer months. I usually have a variety of white pitchers displayed along the top and my fave porch dishware, Tabletops Unlimited. Ma Maison by Dario Farrucci, displayed on the shelves.   I get a lot of comments and e-mails … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Beachy Tablescapes, Before & After, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks, Seasonal Decor

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In the BNOTP Library: Hunt Country Style

April 13, 2014 by 15 Comments

I've so been looking forward to sharing this book with you but I almost changed my mind when I saw the price it's now going for on Amazon. I purchased my copy back on May 18th, 2008 for $34.65. I figured by now it would be less since it's been out a while, but it appears to have gone the other direction. Since I do love it, I'm going to share it anyway so you can add it to your "Wish List" if it looks … [Read more...]

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In the BNOTP Library: Antiques For The Table

April 11, 2014 by 26 Comments

Someone asked me in a comment a while back how I kept up with which books I've already purchased, so as to avoid accidentally buying the same one again. Most of the time I know immediately if a book I come across is one I already have, but over the years it is easy to forget and occasionally buy one you already own. When I very first fell in love with buying new and used books on Amazon (after realizing … [Read more...]

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Easter Spring Table Setting With Greenhouse Centerpiece

April 10, 2014 by 58 Comments

Welcome to the 291st Tablescape Thursday! It's been beautiful weather here although the pollen is raging! It was unbelievably thick on the porch table and required a good wipe down before I could create a table setting for this week's Tablescape Thursday.   Starting to see a little green out there now.   It's hard to be upset over the pollen when the spring breezes are so … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Easter Holiday Home, Easter Table Settings, Easter Tablescapes, Seasonal Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday, Tablescapes Holiday Tablescapes Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

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In The BNOTP Library: A Passion For Blue & White

April 9, 2014 by 11 Comments

As I share my fave books from my decorating/gardening library, I'm trying to make a conscious effort to not feature the same author twice in a row, but I just couldn't resist sharing one more Carolyn Roehm book today because I just love it so much! If you love decorating in blue and white, this is THE book to have. I have a number of books on decorating in blue and white and none of them compare to this … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Blue & White Design & Decor, BNOTP Library

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In the BNOTP Library: At Home With Carolyne Roehm

April 8, 2014 by 31 Comments

At Home With Carolyne Roehm was the first Roehm book I ever purchased. It definitely made me a fan and I've since purchased almost all her other books. If I had to choose one word to describe her books, it would be "Gorgeous!" In the BNOTP Library: At Home With Carolyne Roehm Author: Carolyne Roehm Hardcover: 320 pages Book size: 12.3 x 9.3 x 1.2     3 Things I Like About … [Read more...]

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In the Garden: Daffodils and Pansies

April 7, 2014 by 61 Comments

Welcome to the 271st Metamorphosis Monday! How was your weekend? Hope it was a nice one! It's been raining here so it was a good weekend to stay inside and gets some things done around here. I just spent it cleaning and clearing out some drawers. Exciting stuff! Ha! For this Met Monday, I thought I'd share how the bulbs are looking now. Remember this picture from a post a while … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Gardening & Birding, In the Garden

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In the BNOTP Library: Antiques At Home

April 6, 2014 by 11 Comments

I've never met a Barbara Milo Ohrbach book I didn't love, this one included. I purchased Antiques At Home back in 2007 and it's one of my very favorites by her. In the BNOTP Library: Antiques at Home: Cherchez's Book of Collecting and Decorating with Antiques Author: Barbara Milo Ohrbach Hardcover: 256 pages Book size: 10.3 x 7.8 x 0.9 3 Things I Like About This Book: It's like going … [Read more...]

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In the BNOTP Library: Garden Room Style

April 5, 2014 by 4 Comments

I have a thing for conservatories, greenhouses and any room where you can bring the outdoors in. The cover of the book I'm sharing from the BNOTP library today, drew me in and it was not a disappointment. The rooms inside are just as beautiful, some even more so! In the BNOTP Library: Garden Room Style Author: Peter Marston Published: Rizzoli (September 15, 1998) Hardcover: 160 pages Book size: … [Read more...]

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Beach Table Setting With Lighthouse Lantern Centerpiece

April 3, 2014 by 63 Comments

Welcome to the 290th Tablescape Thursday! It's been in the 70's here for several days, I think it even got up into the 80's for a bit. Love, love, love the warm weather! All these warm days have me dreaming of the beach so it's time for a little beach table setting out on the porch.   This beach table setting celebrates the soft, cool shades of aqua, one of my favorite … [Read more...]

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In the BNOTP Library: Designers At Home

April 2, 2014 by 6 Comments

I'm nosy, I admit it. I love, love, love getting a peak inside the homes of well-known designers. It's so fascinating to see how they really live. I wonder, have they used a lot of color in their home or is it decorated in all neutrals? Do they have pets? Is their home pristine and perfect or does it look lived-in? I want to know, do they decorate their own home the way they do the homes of their … [Read more...]

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In the BNOTP Library: Perfect English

April 1, 2014 by 7 Comments

Thanks so much for all the generous comments on this morning's post, a tutorial for building a Pottery Barn inspired Cubby Organizer. I've been lusting after that organizer for years. Appreciate the awesome tips you left, too. Had no idea a compound miter saw could be used for a project like that! This evening I'm sharing another fave from the BNOTP library, a book about English decor/interior … [Read more...]

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Build a Cubby Organizer, Pottery Barn Inspired

April 1, 2014 by 78 Comments

If you've been reading Between Naps on the Porch for a while, you know I love organizing "stuff." It's ridiculous how excited I can get over finding cool ways to store those things we need and use each day. It's icing on the cake when storage is actually pretty and decorative in addition to being functional. One handsome storage solution I've been eyeing for a long time is Pottery Barn's Cubby … [Read more...]

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Restoration Of Historic Ski Cabin In Switzerland

March 31, 2014 by 30 Comments

Welcome to the 270th Metamorphosis Monday! Do you have your passport handy? We're heading off to Switzerland this morning to visit our friend, Cornelia! Cornelia has invited us on a tour of her historic 1853 ski cabin located in the Swiss mountains. It's was being restored all last summer and was done in time for this past winter's ski season. You've heard of ski-in and ski-out? This cabin is the … [Read more...]

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In the BNOTP Library: Martha Stewart’s New Old House

March 30, 2014 by 17 Comments

Pssst: I've created a new category at the top of BNOTP called Library so if later you're trying to remember the name of a book I featured from my decor library, you'll be able to click on that category and find it there. I also dropped the rating scale because I realized that I'm only going to be sharing those books that I own and really like.  So if I'm sharing it here, you know it's one I … [Read more...]

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In the BNOTP Library: Country Living Decorating With White

March 28, 2014 by 18 Comments

If you missed the video I sent out in my morning post, you are in for a treat! I had to watch it several times and I still want to watch it again! lol It's pretty awesome! The comments you've left are pretty awesome too, I can tell you loved it as much as I did. In this post I'm sharing a book I ordered a few months ago and have really enjoyed. When it arrived, I was surprised and delighted by the cover. … [Read more...]

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Coolest Woodworking Video Ever: This One’s For the Book Lovers

March 28, 2014 by 36 Comments

Happy Friday! What do you do when you have too many books and not enough bookshelves?   Imagine if a woodworking shop came to life. Even if you're not into woodworking, you'll like this 7-minute video. It made me laughed out loud a couple of times. The clamps were my favorite. Eee-eek, eee-eek, eee-eek. That will make sense in a minute. :) The video below was made by Frank Howarth from … [Read more...]

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Celebrating Spring!

March 27, 2014 by 38 Comments

Welcome to the 289th Tablescape Thursday! I've been working every night this week in the basement until well past midnight, finishing up my latest woodworking project which I'm dubbing the "Glove of Woodworking." lol That will make more sense if you read yesterday's post. :)  It's almost done, just needs a little paint touch up here and there. I didn't get a chance to put a new table together this … [Read more...]

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A Workbench for the Basement

March 26, 2014 by 76 Comments

I've been hold-up in the basement for the last few days, working on a project that reminds me of the time I decided to teach myself to knit. It went something like this: Gee, I think I'd like to learn to knit. Ummm, what should I knit first? I know...gloves! Yeah, you can imagine how that turned out! Later on, an experienced knitter told me that a glove is one of the hardest things you can ever knit. … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY Decorating, DIY Organization and Storage, DIY Repairs and Fixes

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In the BNOTP Library: A Home of Your Own

March 25, 2014 by 11 Comments

Today I thought I'd share a book that's probably not that well-known. I noticed this evening that it's been out about a year but still doesn't have any reviews on Amazon. Not sure why because I really like it and think it's a great book.   It was the cover that drew me to A Home of Your Own. I loved the entry and staircase shown on the dust jacket. Speaking of  dust jackets, this is one of … [Read more...]

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In the BNOTP Library: An Affair With A House

March 22, 2014 by 39 Comments

I had to kick off our very first BNOTP Library post with one of my all time favorite decorating books. It's the first book that always comes to mind when I think of my faves. It's one I pull off the shelf at least once a month to enjoy all over again. In the BNOTP Library: An Affair with a House Author: Bunny Williams Published: Stewart, Tabori and Chang (October 1, 2005) Hardcover: 240 … [Read more...]

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Charming Features of Older Homes

March 21, 2014 by 73 Comments

Happy Friday! Are you looking forward to the weekend? I have some projects to work on so it will be a busy one. I have a little catching up to do around here. I was out of town visiting family (my son and, his family) and I just returned last night. It was a fun trip and the days flew by. My son and DIL purchased a beautiful, older home a while back and this was the first time I've visited since they … [Read more...]

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Welcoming Spring With Five Spring Table Settings

March 20, 2014 by 40 Comments

Welcome to the 288th Tablescape Thursday! Today is officially the first day of spring! I'm sooo excited it's finally here! For this week's Tablescape Thursday, I thought I'd share a few links to some of my previous springtime tablescapes to get you in the mood for spring, not that you need it! If you're like me, you've been ready for some spring weather for weeks! Happy Spring! (Click on the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday

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Peat Pot Spring Baskets, Perfect for Easter

March 19, 2014 by 22 Comments

Easter is only a few weeks away and I'm so excited to share a beautiful Easter craft from my friend Jane who blogs at Cottage at the Crossroads.  Here's Jane to explain just how she made these adorable Peat Pot Spring Baskets. Tutorial from Jane, Cottage at the Crossroads: Have you been noticing those pretty peat pots that people have been decorating? Well, I just had to make some, too, and I'm … [Read more...]

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Pork Chops With Biscuits & Tomato Gravy

March 18, 2014 by 25 Comments

Is your mouth watering from that post title, because mine sure is! One of my fave blogs to visit when I need a good recipe is Madonna's yummy blog, Make Mine Lemon. Since it's selfish to hoard a good find and not share it with you, I asked Madonna if she would be kind enough to share a recipe with us here at BNOTP, and she happily obliged. Take it away, Madonna! Following post by Madonna from the blog: Make … [Read more...]

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Beautiful Guest Bedroom Makeover

March 16, 2014 by 35 Comments

Welcome to the 268th Metamorphosis Monday! Pssst: Met Monday is going up a little early this week. Next week we'll return to our normal schedule and MM will go up on Monday morning before 10 AM. Recently I was chatting with Laura via e-mail and she  shared some pictures of her guest room makeover. I thought it was wonderful and asked if she would let me share it with you. Fortunately, she said, yes! I … [Read more...]

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Let’s Go Antiquing!

March 14, 2014 by 110 Comments

It's been ages since you and I went antiquing.  Remember when we used to go on antiquing trips to A Classy Flea? It's a gorgeous sunny day here so let's go! I'm going to be sharing a pretty bedroom makeover for Metamorphosis Monday and it features two beautiful cathedral mirrors, so this one caught my eye. It was $97.   Here's a unique way to make an Adirondack chair, using vintage skis … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Favorite Fashions & Home Goods

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St. Patrick’s Day Spring Table Setting

March 13, 2014 by 69 Comments

Welcome to the 287th Tablescape Thursday! We've been having some early spring weather here in Georgia. It was 77 degrees outside the day I created this table setting. It started out as a St. Patrick's Day tablescape but somewhere along the way it morphed into a spring table setting, too.   When my son was in elementary school, he enjoyed reading a series of books that were super popular at … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Spring & Summer Tablescapes, St. Patrick's Day Holiday Home, St. Patrick's Day Table Settings, St. Patrick's Day Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday, Tablescapes Holiday Tablescapes, The Holiday Home Tagged With: , ,

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Shopping for a Breath of Fresh Air

March 11, 2014 by 47 Comments

Whew, wee! It was time to get the heck out of the house last night. I was late applying the third coat of marine varnish to the potting table. Each night before, that job had been done by 5 or 6:00 PM so I had a few hours of daylight when I could have the doors standing open in the basement.   Last night I was running way behind and didn't get that third coat of varnish on until closer to … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Gardening & Birding, In the Garden

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The Best Way to Protect & Care for Outdoor Wood Furniture

March 10, 2014 by 85 Comments

Welcome to the 267th Metamorphosis Monday! Hope you had a great weekend! This weekend I was busy adding a bit of protection to the Pottery-Barn-Inspired potting table I made recently. I'm hoping to move it up to the deck soon for spring planting and summer parties and I really don't want to see it become weathered and damaged over the years.   I've never before had to worry about protecting … [Read more...]

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Tour Thayercrest, a Beautiful Historic Home in New Hampshire

March 7, 2014 by 68 Comments

I love taking you on home tours, especially when I come across a hidden gem and today's home is truly a special home! This historic home known as Thayercrest, is located in Farmington, New Hampshire. It was built in 1915, thus making it almost 100 years old! I was surprised to read that in its 100 year history it has never been on the market! Isn't that amazing?! It's not often one can buy a … [Read more...]

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St. Patrick’s Day Table Setting With Leprechaun Centerpiece

March 6, 2014 by 42 Comments

Welcome to the 286th Tablescape Thursday! I'm sharing a St. Patrick's Day table today. It was dark and gloomy out when I took the pictures for this post. Looking forward to some sunshine days and setting table out on the porch again, soon.   You probably recognized Mr. Leprechaun in the centerpiece. He asks to be included in at least one table each year. ;) The bowls are a new addition, I … [Read more...]

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

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Decorating the Porch for Spring

March 3, 2014 by 93 Comments

Welcome to the 266th Metamorphosis Monday! This weekend was so nice here, especially Sunday. I threw open both doors to the porch and spent some time enjoying our 70+ degree weather.   I did a little pre-spring cleaning, dusting off a few things in anticipation of the warm days to come.   Recently, I came across this little bird feeder in Lowes. It has a rope attached and when … [Read more...]

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Tour a Beautiful Historic Home in Savannah Georgia

March 1, 2014 by 31 Comments

One of my favorite places to visit in this big old world is Savannah, Georgia. I love the history, the wonderful old homes and the unbelievably beautiful squares. I've taken you on several home tours in Savannah in the past. I'll link to some of those at the end of this post in case Savannah captures your heart the way it has mine. Today were touring a beautiful Greek Revival home that overlooks one of … [Read more...]

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Dimensions and Cut List for a Pottery Barn Inspired Potting Table

February 28, 2014 by 13 Comments

Recently, I shared a tutorial for building a Pottery Barn inspired potting table that can also be used as party buffet server for an outdoor party. You'll find that post containing lots of detailed photos here: Building a Potting Bench Garden Table   I've had a few folks ask for more information about where I purchased the vintage styled wheels and dragonfly hooks, as well as additional … [Read more...]

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Spring Dessert Buffet for An Outdoor Party

February 27, 2014 by 88 Comments

Welcome to the 285th Tablescape Thursday! Yesterday I shared a Pottery Barn inspired potting table I built for my deck, an area where each year I do a lot of container gardening for summer. This was the inspiration table, the Abbott Island Buffet/Potting Table.   This was the version I created for around $1,050 less than the inspiration table. :)   One of the neat things … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Easter Holiday Home, Easter Table Settings, Easter Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: , ,

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Build a Potting Table, Great for Parties, Too!

February 26, 2014 by 146 Comments

Love! That perfectly describes how I felt when I saw this picture of the Abbott Potting Table online. Was it the orchids that lured me in, those wonderful old windows or was it that fabulous potting table? I've always wanted a potting bench or potting table. I was doubly smitten when I realized the table could also function as a serving table for parties! Awesome!  There was just one problem, it was … [Read more...]

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Dining in the Library: When Dining Rooms Are Libraries, Too!

February 24, 2014 by 69 Comments

Welcome to the 265th Metamorphosis Monday! Thank you so, so much for all the sweet words of congratulations yesterday! If being a grandmother is just half as amazing as you've described, I am in for a wonderful journey! :) I was a bit preoccupied this weekend. Truthfully, I had trouble focusing on anything. I know you understand.  So, I don't have a Before and After from here in my home to share. I … [Read more...]

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It’s a Boy!

February 23, 2014 by 190 Comments

He's here! A beautiful miracle! I won't get to hold him in my arms for a couple of weeks but I'm already in love. Mom, Dad and baby are all doing great!  … [Read more...]

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A Mardi Gras Celebration

February 20, 2014 by 24 Comments

Welcome to the 284th Tablescape Thursday! Sandra is throwing a Mardi Gras bash! She has six friends coming in for the weekend just before Mardi Gras so it's going to be party time. Just look at this beautiful table she's prepared!   Sandra lives in a beautiful historic home built in 1833. I love the little glimpses we catch of her wonderful dining room in this post.   Can … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Mardi Gras Holiday Home, Mardi Gras Table Settings, Mardi Gras Tablescapes, Tablescapes Holiday Tablescapes, The Holiday Home Tagged With: , , , , ,

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A Little Bit of Everything

February 19, 2014 by 32 Comments

Remember the ice storm we had a couple of weeks ago--you know, the one we had right before we had two earthquakes? Yeah, life's been interesting around here lately.  I kept worrying during the storm that my magnolia would lose its top for the third time. Ice storms are its only nemesis.   It fared much better this time, only lost one small limb. Not bad at all.   My clay … [Read more...]

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A Fantasy Second Home, A Place to Escape the World

February 18, 2014 by 37 Comments

Do you have a second home, a home away from home? I don't but I dream sometimes of having one, a place to get away from everyday life  and just sloooow down for a bit. If you had a second home, what would it be? Are you the "cabin in the mountains" type, the "beach cottage" type or the "anywhere-but-here" type? A few years back I purchased this Better Homes and Gardens book on Amazon. It's filled with … [Read more...]

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Battery Organization and Storage

February 17, 2014 by 80 Comments

Welcome to the 264th Metamorphosis Monday! I have a mini-met for this Metamorphosis Monday, something that's so simple but has me pretty charged. (Har, har...couldn't resist.) I get just as excited about the little improvements I make around here as I do the bigger ones. Do you do that, too?  This was my battery storage system--a gallon size baggy. Pretty sad, huh?   Whenever I needed a … [Read more...]

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10 Fun Projects For Your Weekend

February 16, 2014 by 7 Comments

Happy Weekend! Itching for a fun craft project? Got some old jeans? Twenty-five new projects crafted from old jeans or repurposed denim have been added to Denim Do Over this past month. Currently at DDO, you'll find over 100 fabulous projects crafted or sewed with repurposed denim! Wowza! That's a lot of inspiration for your next denim project! No-Sew Projects Did you know Denim Do Over isn't … [Read more...]

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