A Thanksgiving Recap with a Few New Ideas for Christmas

December 2, 2020 by 23 Comments

Does an idea ever come to you in the form of a picture or an image? You're just going about your day and suddenly an idea comes to you out of nowhere, but it doesn't come to you as a conscious thought. Instead, it pops into your head as a picture or an image. Has that ever happened to you? That happened to me about two weeks before Thanksgiving. I had been picking up a few goodies for my grandsons in the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Gift Ideas, Christmas Holiday Home, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, Thanksgiving Holiday Home Tagged With: , , , ,



Add Stars to the Ceiling of Your Bedroom, Living Room or Theater Room for a Magical Experience

July 27, 2020 by 69 Comments

Welcome to the 600th Metamorphosis Monday! Last week I shared this photo of a bedroom with a star-covered ceiling. I loved the look of this so much, I ordered a few stars to see how they would look on my bedroom ceiling.   After doing a little test run with a few stars, I decided to go for it. I ordered a bunch more stars from different companies and got to work placing them on my … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Bedroom (Master), Before & After, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds Tagged With: , , ,



Hunting for Fossils: An Adventure Hike

June 30, 2020 by 24 Comments

Whenever I visit my son, daughter-in-love and grandsons in Ohio, we always go on hikes. When my son was growing up, we used to go on hikes as a family, but not near as much as my son, dil and grandsons do now. They go almost every weekend unless it's raining or snowing. I love that! It's such a great way to get in some good exercise while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. The area my son lives in … [Read more...]

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Create a Beautiful, Arched, Balloon Garland for Birthdays & Other Special Occasions

June 10, 2020 by 28 Comments

During the first part of June, it's Birthday Central here at my son's home. My son's birthday is immediately followed by my youngest grandson's birthday, which is followed a few days later by my daughter-in-law, Nancy's, birthday. So there was a lot of decorating, partying and cake-eating happening over the past week or so! For my youngest grandson's 4th birthday celebration, Nancy decorated in a … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY Crafts & Sewing, DIY Decorating, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds



Springtime Fun: Let’s Go On a Picnic!

May 10, 2020 by 10 Comments

Welcome to the 589th Metamorphosis Monday! Recently, we went picnicking in beautiful Smith Gardens. We had sooo much fun, we are hoping to do a lot more picnics this spring and summer.   I thought it would be fun to upgrade our picnic supplies, so this weekend I went picnic shopping and found the cutest baskets! I wanted a picnic basket that would work for four adults and found several … [Read more...]

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How We’re Zooming (and Escaping) While Stuck Inside

May 8, 2020 by 22 Comments

If you're stuck inside, my philosophy is you might as well have some fun with it. Over the past few weeks, my grandsons have had a few virtual meetings with their classmates, hosted by their teacher. After a couple of those, I got an idea. I ordered some fun backdrops for their meetings like the one shown below. I also ordered a couple I thought my daughter-in-law, Nancy, would enjoy for some of the Zoom … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY Photography, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds Tagged With: , ,



2020 Calendar Insert & Delightful Dashboards for an Agenda

January 6, 2020 by 18 Comments

Welcome to the 571st Metamorphosis Monday! Toward the end of 2017, after years of buying a new agenda/calendar at the start of each year, I decided to make a change for 2018. I decided to purchase an agenda cover that I could refill each year. Having just fallen hard for Louis Vuitton after seeing one of their amazing antique trunks in an LV store while vacationing in Maui, I decided to go with an LV … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds Tagged With: , , , , ,



Last Minute Gift Ideas for Christmas, Stocking Stuffers, Too!

December 21, 2019 by 18 Comments

Christmas is just four days away. If you're still struggling to find the right gift for someone on your list, here are a few suggestions ranging in cost. All these products are from stores that state they can still ship in time for Christmas, although some items may not include free shipping. I've also included some great stocking stuffer ideas. Merry Christmas and Happy Shopping! I love a cashmere … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds



Christmas Gift Ideas & A Cuddly Splurge I Made for Christmas

December 10, 2019 by 7 Comments

This morning a good friend emailed to tell me about an awesome deal from L.L. Bean. I jumped on it quickly because it ends today and I knew the popular sizes would go fast. I bought this Anorak pullover in two colors: red/blue and the olive/teal shown below.   It was already on sale and after using the code, Gift20, it brought the price down to just $27! Everything right now is on sale at … [Read more...]

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November Faves, Greenery for the Mantel, Winter Bedding & Great Stocking Stuffers

December 7, 2019 by 48 Comments

Happy Weekend to you! Do you have some Christmas shopping planned today? I think I'm going to visit my nearby Williams Sonoma and Pottery Barn today just to see what's all on sale. I LOVE shopping in both stores this time of year. Before I get into my November favorites, just wanted to share a quick photo of the greenery I used on the mantel this year. I was so busy getting ready for family to arrive for … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Gift Ideas, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, Monthly Favorites Tagged With: , , ,



Tent Beds & Dinosaur Sleeping Bags for Visiting Children During the Holidays

December 4, 2019 by 18 Comments

Merry Christmas! How was your Thanksgiving? Our Thanksgiving was great, the days just passed way too quickly. Having this house filled with family and two boisterous little boys was a joy! I was so sad when it was time for them to go home, I was almost in tears as they drove away. The only thing that made me feel a bit better was knowing I'd be seeing them again in just a couple of weeks. Do you have … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds



Transforming My Home, Table & Wardrobe This Cyber-Monday

December 2, 2019 by 22 Comments

Welcome to the 566th Metamorphosis Monday! Today is Cyber Monday! There are so many amazing deals going on right now, I had to share some of my favorites today. The ones I'm sharing will transform your home and your table for the holidays. Some will even give your wardrobe a holiday boost. Before we get into some of the amazing sales I've found, if you are starting to decorate for Christmas and will … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds Tagged With: , ,



The Best of Black Friday Sales

November 29, 2019 by 5 Comments

I haven't done any Black Friday shopping until this evening but I'm finding some awesome deals! Here's what I'm loving so far! Noritake is offering 30-50% off sitewide! You'll find the sale here: Noritake: 30%-50% Off.   Tartan Bedding On Sale I'm often asked about the tartan bedding in my master bedroom. It's currently on sale 50% off here: Tartan Bedding. That's the most I've ever … [Read more...]

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Affordable Gift Ideas, Beautiful Party Dresses & 2 Awesome Sales

November 19, 2019 by 15 Comments

There are some awesome sales going on right now! Before I get into some of the gifts I've been buying, if you are interested in hanging wreaths on your windows for Christmas this year, the is the best place I've found to purchase the type bows you saw me using in yesterday's post: 12 Pack of Red Velvet Bows. The price is excellent and reviews look great! When my bows ultimately need replacing, that's … [Read more...]

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A Great Gift Idea & An Inexpensive Way to Try Several Hermes Perfumes

November 10, 2019 by 18 Comments

I love Hermes fragrances and wear them a lot. Though they aren't inexpensive, usually it only takes a couple of spritzes and you're good for the whole day. So a bottle will last a long, long time. Yesterday I came across a great gift idea that's also a wonderful way to sample several of Hermes' perfumes without committing to buying a large bottle. These would also make a great Christmas present. For this … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds



An Absolutely Ducky Idea for Shelving in a Bathroom or Linen Closet

September 2, 2019 by 42 Comments

Welcome to the 553rd Metamorphosis Monday! How about a little silly fun for your Labor Day? Happy Labor Day to you, btw. I hope you are resting somewhere with your feet propped up, fruity drink in hand. Those are my plans for this afternoon! :) First off I have to state, this is NOT where I store my linens. I put this bit of fun together last night just so I could share a hilarious, adorable idea that … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, DIY Decorating, DIY Organization and Storage, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds Tagged With: , , , , ,



My (and my son’s) Winter Favorites

January 12, 2019 by 62 Comments

This is how fall/winter always starts for me: It's the end of September and I'm dreading the end of summer. I wish I could keep fall/winter from coming or at least somehow fast forward through it to spring. I almost feel depressed thinking that summer is over and the long months of winter are upon us. Then Halloween happens, I love Halloween and all the decorating and silliness that accompanies it. … [Read more...]

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Beautiful Calendar Inserts for Any Agenda, Especially for the Louis Vuitton Fan

January 9, 2019 by 36 Comments

Last summer I was offered a trip to Maui, Hawaii by a friend who had booked a week there but ended up not being able to go due to another commitment. (Read more about that trip under the Travel category at the top of BNOTP here: Travel.) During that trip, I did some shopping which included visiting a Louis Vuitton store in Whalers Village. While inside I spotted the most beautiful antique trunk! Until … [Read more...]

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Keep Silver Jewelry Visible, Yet Tarnish-free While Stored Away

December 31, 2018 by 19 Comments

Welcome to the 518th Metamorphosis Monday! Happy New Year to you! Any exciting plans for New Year's Eve? I have something I just discovered that I'm super excited to share with you for this week's Metamorphosis Monday! Over the past 20 years, I've collected or have been given as a gift, several pieces of silver jewelry. Some jewelry, like the silver jewelry from Tiffany & Co., comes in a little … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, DIY Organization and Storage, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds Tagged With: , , , ,



Gift Ideas for Kids of All Ages, I Want Some of These!

December 16, 2018 by 14 Comments

Update: If you have trouble seeing links below, please exit out of the post and load it again to see if that corrects the problem. This will be my last gift idea post and this one is geared toward the little ones who steal our hearts every day. I will continue to add gift ideas to this post as I've been doing with the other gift posts I've put together, so be sure to check back if you're still looking … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Gift Ideas, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds



Favorite Gift Ideas for the Men in Our Life

December 15, 2018 by 7 Comments

Update: If you have trouble seeing links below, please exit out of the post and load it again to see if that corrects the problem. Recently, I shared a few gift ideas that would make great stocking stuffers. If you missed that post, you'll find it here: Stocking Stuffers They'll Love on Christmas Day.   A few days later I shared suggestions for the ladies in your life. That post can be … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Gift Ideas, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds



Gifts Any Woman Would Love, Even The Picky Ones!

December 11, 2018 by 20 Comments

Update: If you have trouble seeing links below, please exit out of the post and load it again to see if that corrects the problem. Recently, I shared a few items that I thought would be much-appreciated stocking stuffers this year. If you missed that post, you'll find it here: Stocking Stuffers They'll Love on Christmas Day. Today I thought I'd share a few goodies that I think would make wonderful … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Gift Ideas, Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds



Why My Laptop’s Built-in Camera Has Been Covered for the Last 10+ Years.

December 5, 2018 by 32 Comments

Many years ago, before I had ever heard of blogs, I took my then computer laptop to a computer store to have it repaired. When I placed it on the counter inside the repair shop and opened it up, I was a little embarrassed. Before leaving home, I had forgotten to remove the folded up yellow Post-it note I had taped over the camera. I hastily removed it, mumbling something about having heard you could be … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY Repairs and Fixes, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds



My Uber Eats Experience & A Ring Doorbell Update

December 2, 2018 by 20 Comments

Have you tried Uber Eats, yet? I thought I'd pop in and just share my experience in case you're interested. This isn't a Sponsored post, Uber Eats does not know me, just sharing because I've had excellent experiences and have really enjoyed it. This past summer, I went from having never used Uber to lately using it a lot. The first time I used Uber was when I was in Maui for a week this past summer. I … [Read more...]

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What’s Inside My Travel Handbag & Travel-Themed Toothpaste

October 12, 2018 by 54 Comments

Thanks so much to Ginger for telling me about this fun "luxury" travel toothpaste. The toothpaste comes in some pretty exotic-sounding flavors. The description describes them this way: This set contains 1.3oz travel sizes of all three limited edition toothpaste flavors in Marvis’ Wonders of the World collection, inspired by an imaginary and adventurous journey around the world. I purchased one set … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Egypt, Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, Travel Tagged With: , , ,



Let’s Go Antiquing at A Classy Flea…So Many Cute Things!

March 17, 2018 by 31 Comments

Yesterday I drove over to a Pier 1 that's about 20 minutes away to pick up some plates I had purchased online. Normally the Pier 1 near me would have them, they had them in stock the day before, but they are currently on sale for $20.88, so the stores are all selling out. (They are still available here: Bunny Plates. See all the Easter goodies included in the sale here: Easter.) I purchased a few more … [Read more...]

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The 7 Hair Products I Couldn’t Live Without, Plus a Bonus Tip!

March 12, 2018 by 46 Comments

Welcome to the 476th Metamorphosis Monday! Recently I shared a new tool I'm using for de-frizzing/curling/styling my hair. This thing is amazing, don't know how I ever lived without it! If you missed that post, you'll find it here The Best Hair Styler Tool I've Ever Used and this styling tool is available here: Styling Tool.) For this week's Met Monday, I thought I'd share the other products that I've … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Fashion & Beauty, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds Tagged With: ,



Some Fabulous Spring Sales & The Cutest Puzzle Ever!

March 3, 2018 by 67 Comments

I'm so ready for summer! We had an early spring here in Georgia, everything is blooming including the Bradford Pears and the Tulip Magnolias. The daffodils bloomed a few weeks back and are starting to wane now. If you're living where it's still cold and snowy, stay tuned because I have some goodies that will interest you in this post, too. Last summer I blogged about some cute sneakers I had purchased in … [Read more...]

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A Great Way to Carry Your Favorite Perfume In Your Handbag & When Traveling

February 7, 2018 by 37 Comments

This post is for the perfume lovers. I know some folks don't care for perfume or may even be allergic to it. If that's you, please feel free to skip this post and come back tomorrow when you'll find a new post on a different topic. If you love perfume as much as I do, read on! Hope you enjoy! :) Perfume is a passion of mine and I'm always up for trying new scents. Lately I'm really enjoying some of the … [Read more...]

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Preventing & Healing Split Fingertips In Winter

January 17, 2018 by 83 Comments

The snow has decided to stay a while here in Ohio. It snowed every day for 3-4 days in a row and the temps have stayed quite low. I'm not used to seeing this view out my windshield when driving.   All the neighborhoods look like this one. The snow plows have been coming through several times a day, so the roads are in pretty good shape.   I was amazed how quickly my car started … [Read more...]

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Packing for The Netherlands, Germany & France at Christmastime

December 19, 2017 by 59 Comments

I've received a few comments asking if I would share what I will be wearing during my upcoming trip to Germany. I'll be packing the usual suspects: pants, sweaters, turtlenecks, scarves and boots, but I'm finding packing for this trip a lot more challenging. The problem is sweaters are really fat and fluffy, so they take up a lot of space. But I love sweaters so I'm determined to take several, even if I … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Germany, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, Travel Tagged With: , , , , ,



Last Minute Christmas Deals & The Coat I’ll Be Wearing In Germany for Christmas

December 15, 2017 by 52 Comments

A lot of stores are having last minute sales with free shipping for the holiday season. Here are a few that caught my eye. Sundance is offering 20% off this weekend, along with free shipping. I'm eyeing this beautiful cardigan here: Cardigan.   Frye has a great sale going on, 25% off with the code: CHILLY at Checkout. So if you've been lusting after a pair of Frye shoes or boots, this is a … [Read more...]

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



Goodbye Shoulder Bumps: Hangers Designed for Holding Cardigan Sweaters

December 11, 2017 by 39 Comments

Welcome to the 463rd Metamorphosis Monday! This has been such a wacky morning. When I "woke-up" my computer today to complete my post for Met Monday, the "Caps Lock" button was stuck in the "on" position. The key itself wasn't physically stuck down, but it was showing a little green light indicating the caps lock was on, and no matter what I did, it wouldn't turn off. Can you imagine me typing out and … [Read more...]

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A Few Winter Wardrobe Additions and Gift Ideas

December 10, 2017 by 38 Comments

This fall/winter I've been on a quest to completely overhaul my winter wardrobe, focusing on two things: comfort and warmth. I added a few more pieces this past week and thought I'd share those in this post in case you're looking to update your winter wardrobe, or just looking for some additional gift ideas. Before this fall I didn't own a single Fair Isle sweater. A lot of the ones I've found over the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds



Answering Your Questions & A Christmas Home Tour

December 3, 2017 by 26 Comments

Still haven't turned the corner on this cold, or whatever it is. When I talk, I sound like a man, or maybe a frog--or maybe a man with a croaking frog in his pocket. lol It's embarrassing! When I go someplace like the grocery store, or have to call someone on the phone, I sound ridiculous. Oh well, not much I can do about that. Spent much of the day in bed, just sleeping and trying to get over this yucky … [Read more...]

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Shopping In an L.L. Bean Store & A Little Treat For Your Delivery Person This Season

November 29, 2017 by 38 Comments

I've been out of town this past week for Thanksgiving. Just got back in late last night around 11 PM. It was a bit of a rough drive since I'm still sick with a yucky cold, but at least the weather was perfect for the trip home. On the way home and just 45 minutes into my trip, I got a wild hair and did something completely unplanned. It was totally a spur of the moment decision. This past week a friend … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds



My Favorites for Cyber Monday, Love This Time of Year!

November 27, 2017 by 22 Comments

Welcome to the 461st Metamorphosis Monday! I couldn't let Cyber Monday go by without sharing my favorites. Many of these things I already have and love, others are on my wish list. A few of the items I had hoped to share today, sold out overnight, like some amazing boots I've been drooling over at Talbots. So if you see something today that you love, don't wait like I did. The best stuff is going fast! I … [Read more...]

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



10 Unique Gift Ideas and An Awesome Sale!

November 11, 2017 by 32 Comments

Yesterday I bought a Christmas tree. It's still in its box in the back of my SUV. I have a couple of more places I want to check before I unbox it and put it up. I like it much better than the Balsam Hill tree I purchased recently, and it was half the price! I'm not sure I'll ever buy another tree without first seeing it in person. Hope to share it with you all decorated real soon. 10 Unique Gift … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Decor, Christmas Gift Ideas, Christmas Table Settings, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds Tagged With: , ,



Antiquing at A Classy Flea

October 10, 2017 by 41 Comments

Thanks for all the input yesterday on the new finial I was trying out. I had seen the brass shamrock several folks mentioned, but I really had my heart set on a dragon or something a bit fanciful and fairy-tale-like. I think I'll just stick with the two finials I have already for now, but will keep an eye out in case something better comes along. Appreciate all your helpful input! Today while out running … [Read more...]

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How I’ve Prepared for Hurricane Irma

September 8, 2017 by 96 Comments

It's been over 20 years since Hurricane Opal blew through Atlanta. That was the first (and only) time I've ever experienced a hurricane in all my years of living in Georgia. From what I've gathered listening to the news, some of Irma will probably make its way to the Atlanta area. I remember we lost power for a while with Opal, so I've been stocking up on some things in preparation. I already had plenty … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY Organization and Storage, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds



How I’ve Spent the Last 48 Hours

July 25, 2017 by 48 Comments

I've been a busy bee the last 48 hours. I don't know what has gotten into me, but I've been going non-stop! After this Frye tote arrived recently, I decided I wanted to add a bag organizer to it so it would have more support across the bottom whenever I carry heavy items like my laptop. I researched online forever and even contacted Frye. No one makes an organizer for this bag, but I found one that was a … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Closets & Pantries, DIY Organization and Storage, Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds



Stylish Summer Sandals & Hard-to-Find, Rebecca de Ravenel Earrings

June 23, 2017 by 32 Comments

Earlier in the spring, I purchased this cute, wicker handbag. I have so enjoyed carrying it this spring. Everywhere I go people comment and ask me about it. I don't think I've ever carried a bag that brought so many compliments! Even the sales associates in my local Talbots love it. At first, they asked if it was one of their bags. It looks like it should be! Keeping my wicker bag in mind, I went … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds



The Safest Way to Clean a Silk Scarf

June 12, 2017 by 47 Comments

Welcome to the 437th Metamorphosis Monday! Happy Monday! Hope your week is off to a great start! For this week's Met Monday, I thought I give an update on whatever happened to the Hermes scarf I bought on eBay, the one that arrived sporting an ugly, oily looking stain in one corner. In a previous post I shared this photo. (See that post here: Washing an Hermes Scarf and Madame Paulette.) This was the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds Tagged With: , , , , , ,



Superga Sneakers & a Fun Edition to My Upstairs Living Room

June 10, 2017 by 40 Comments

I'm declaring this the summer of the sneaker! lol I don't know what's gotten into me, but I'm on a sneaker tear. I think I could live the rest of my life wearing only Sperry Topsiders and Superba Sneakers! Recently, after reading the book, Classic Style, I added a pair of Stan Smith sneakers to my shoe wardrobe.   You can read more about these legendary sneakers in this previous post: … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, Living Room/Bonus (Upstairs) Tagged With: , , , , , ,



A Handy Mobile Phone Mounting System for the Car

June 5, 2017 by 18 Comments

Welcome to the 436th Metamorphosis Monday! A while back a YouTuber I follow mentioned a hands-free option for using a cell phone in the car. I try to not use my mobile phone in the car while driving, but I do love listening to books on Audible via my phone. Unfortunately, I have an older car and my car's Bluetooth will not work with the current phones of today, so typically I use a small Bluetooth … [Read more...]

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Two Enjoyable, Yet Very Different Books: Wanderlust and Classic Style

May 31, 2017 by 16 Comments

This past weekend I did something I haven't done in a while, I curled up with a couple of new books and just vegged for a whole evening. The two books could not have been more different from each other, so it was like whiplash reading as I alternated between the two of them. I'm not sure what that says about me, that I would order and enjoy two such different books. lol   Wanderlust by … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, Travel Tagged With: , , , ,



The Secret to Fitting a Small Bangle Over a Wide Hand

May 22, 2017 by 79 Comments

Welcome to the 434th Metamorphosis Monday! Have you ever come across a beautiful bangle bracelet online and wanted to order it, but had no idea if it would fit? I ran into that issue recently, and in my usual manner tried to figure it out the hard way. If you have a simple problem, turn it over to me and I can complicate it for you in no time! So here's how this little tale goes: I have a fondness for … [Read more...]

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The Perfect Wicker HandBag, At Last!

May 20, 2017 by 41 Comments

What's that expression, "Nature abhors a vacuum?" I guess Aristotle was right because without any planning or scheming, that empty spot on the hat rack over the little reading corner in my office....   ...is empty, no more. (See the post where I shared adding this hat rack to the office here: Hat Storage That's Both Functional and Decorative.   A Youtuber I watch ordered … [Read more...]

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Marie’s Fanciful Spring Decor & Beautiful Butterfly Earrings

May 17, 2017 by 31 Comments

When I visited my friend, Marie's beautiful home a few days before Easter, her home was decorated in the most wonderful, fanciful way for spring. Though I've posted a couple of times sharing her spring decor, I wasn't able to share everything. I could not let you miss out on her darling bunny tails and egg garland! At the end of this post, I'm sharing a few items that I ordered and arrived today. I love … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Easter Decorating, Easter Holiday Home, Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds



How Shout Color Catcher Saved My Favorite Shirt

April 24, 2017 by 78 Comments

Welcome to the 430th Metamorphosis Monday! This is not a sponsored post, I just had to share Shout's amazing Color Catcher product because it literally saved me from having to throw away one of my favorite shirts. Hope this proves helpful if you ever find yourself in a similar situation. A few months ago I purchased this adorable polka-dot shirt after seeing it online in this ad.   My … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY Repairs and Fixes, Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds Tagged With: , ,



Summer Scarf Pairings and Hermes Clic H Bracelets

April 22, 2017 by 24 Comments

When I was out-of-town visiting family this past weekend, I stopped into a Talbots that I always visit when I'm there. As I walked through the door, I immediately began scanning the store for a scarf I had seen online. I hadn't realized how much I really wanted that scarf until that very moment. I had seen it online many weeks ago, even before my trip to Morocco, but it wasn't on sale then so I had decided … [Read more...]

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Breakfast With Tiffany

April 19, 2017 by 24 Comments

I love Tiffany & Co. jewelry. For many years I falsely believed that all their jewelry was super expensive and beyond anything I could afford. It's funny how we walk around for years with misguided perceptions. One day I came across a video where a fashion vlogger was sharing her Tiffany jewelry collection and began to understand that Tiffany makes jewelry in all price points and for all … [Read more...]

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A New Travel Handbag & Tiffany Butterfly Glasses

March 11, 2017 by 60 Comments

See that chicken over there, the one running around without a head. It's name is Susan. ;) I'm sure that's how I've looked the last few days as I've been running errands and completing last-minute preparations for my trip to Morocco. I'm usually not a putter-offer, also known as a procrastinator. When I need to get something done, I usually get on it. But one thing I've been putting off for ages is … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, Travel Tagged With: , , ,



The One Part of Travel I Always Dread and a New Tactic for Managing It

March 4, 2017 by 47 Comments

Email Update: I just noticed today that the company I use to send out emails for BNOTP, has been using the wrong return email address. It's been changed to the correct one which is [email protected] . So please add that address to your "approved contacts" or your email addresses. That will help to ensure that you'll receive email updates when a new post is up here on the blog. If you're one … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Africa, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, Holland & Belgium, Italy, Kenya, Mexico, Travel, United States Tagged With: , , , ,



A Much Wanted Shirt Is Found & Spring Wardrobe Updates

February 13, 2017 by 57 Comments

Welcome to 420th Metamorphosis Monday! Did you hear a crazy woman screaming on February 5th? If you did, that was me having a happy fit when Elaine, a reader of BNOTP, e-mailed to say she had seen the birding shirt I've been trying to find forever for sale on Etsy. I leapt over to Etsy and couldn't believe my eyes!  The ad stated that it was brand new and had never been worn. I think it will fit based on … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds Tagged With: , ,



Hunter Royal Horticultural Society Garden Boots & Other Fabulous Finds

February 4, 2017 by 56 Comments

A few years ago I discovered Hunter boots and it's been a serious love affair ever since. This obsession started off innocently with a pair of their Classic Tall Gloss Rain Boots in the color red. You may have noticed them in some of the photos I've shared here on the blog, like this porch scene from this past fall.     I have this uncanny talent of discovering something I really … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gardening & Birding, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds



A Music System So Hot, The Remote Caught Fire!

January 21, 2017 by 50 Comments

Ha! That post title will make more sense in just a second. :) I've been a Bose fan ever since I purchased their Lifestyle® 12 surround sound system for my living room over twenty years ago. When something went wrong with the large acoustimass module after many years of use, Bose was still in business (unlike a lot of companies these days) and were happy to assist.   They mailed me a very … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, My Nest, Office/Craft/Sewing Room Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,



How I’m Using My Spoons & Building My Spring Wardrobe

January 3, 2017 by 37 Comments

A while back I shared some adorable Hand-Stamped silverplate spoons that were the cutest ones I'd ever seen. If you missed that post, you'll find it here: They Arrived and I Love Them! Plus, a Special Bird Sighting I gave the "Drink Tea" spoon shown below to a special friend for Christmas,   ...along with a cute reindeer drink cozy like the one you saw in my previous porch post. The … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds



A Winter Wardrobe Metamorphosis

December 19, 2016 by 55 Comments

Welcome to the 412th Metamorphosis Monday! I have a wardrobe update/metamorphosis to share for this week's Met Monday. Recently I added this cute navy and white J. Crew Buffalo-Plaid, Wool and Cotton Shirt-Jacket to my wardrobe and oh my gosh, did it start something! I've enjoyed it so much, I decided to do a little shopping to see what else was out there that I was missing in my winter … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Fashion & Beauty, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds Tagged With: , , , ,



They Arrived and I Love Them! Plus a Special Bird Sighting!

December 9, 2016 by 39 Comments

Recently I shared an adorable spoon I ordered online from a company that hand-stamps silver-plate spoons with delightful phases. You can purchase one of their designs or have them custom make a spoon with any saying that you like. (Read more about that in my previous post here: What Saying or Quote Would You Choose?)   I was so happy with the first spoon I ordered, I decided to order several … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Gardening & Birding, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds



What Saying or Quote Would You Choose?

November 30, 2016 by 37 Comments

Recently I stumbled across these adorable hand-stamped spoons with clever, funny and sometimes poignant sayings. I've seen them before but these caught my eye because they looked especially well done.   When I saw they were endorsed by Martha Stewart and were part of the "Martha Stewart American Made Market" I knew they were going to be top-notch. Martha doesn't put her name on just anything! The … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, Inspire



Snowflake Sweaters and A Conversation With My Son

November 26, 2016 by 21 Comments

Conversation with my son via phone today: Me: Hey, I want to run something by you. I have some really neat things I'm considering buying you for Christmas, but I want to see what you think. Son: (Laughs) Ooookay. Me: So, you know how L.L. Bean is famous for their duck boots, well they finally seem to be caught up with their production and for once they are actually available during the wintertime! … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Gift Ideas, Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, Inspire



21 Gift Ideas for The “Hard-to-Buy-For” Folks On Your Holiday List

November 19, 2016 by 21 Comments

Hope you're having an awesome weekend! I'm recovering from planting 80 bulbs and three small flats of violas. lol Feeling much better today. Looking forward to sharing some updates for Met Monday, tomorrow! Recently I shared some of my favorite gift ideas that were under or near the $25 range. If you missed that post, you'll find it her: 22 Gifts That Won't Break Your Holiday Budget. As promised in … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Gift Ideas, Christmas Holiday Home, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, Inspire



Come On Fall, Bring On the Leaves! I’m Ready!

September 13, 2016 by 27 Comments

Last Friday I shared a few faves and promised to share the rest this week, so here they are! This Has Been A Life Changer Recently in a post I shared a photo of a fern on my deck. There were leaves on the deck that day and normally I would have taken the time to use my electric blower and blow them away, but my yard guy was coming that afternoon and they usually blow off the decks while here. So, I … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Gardening & Birding, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, In the Garden, Inspire



Hitting the Labor Day Sales & Starting My Christmas Shopping Now

September 3, 2016 by 22 Comments

With all the Labor Day Sales going on, I thought I'd share what caught my eye and what I've been buying this weekend. I love these shorts with the scalloped edge. Normally when I find them, they are so expensive, but these are not. They are marked down from $48 to $36 and an additional 20% off that with the code FINALSALE. You'll find them available here: Shorts with Scalloped Edge   I … [Read more...]

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



Answering Your Safari Travel Questions & What I Brought Back From Kenya

September 29, 2015 by 79 Comments

I've received a lot of questions via emails and comments about the recent trip I took to Africa. Today I thought I'd take time to answer some of those and to make this post a bit more fun so it's not just a bunch of words, I'm including pictures of the souvenirs I brought back, along with some of the little gifts I received during my stay at Mahali Mzuri and Giraffe Manor. Please Note: The captions under … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Africa, Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, Kenya, Travel



An Inspiration Update For My Home Office

July 29, 2015 by 21 Comments

Yesterday afternoon I made a little update here in my home office.   You may remember seeing this large decorative clock on the wall in previous photos. (This photo was taken back around Halloween one year so ignore the pumpkins.) I like this clock but I purchased it mainly to help fill that big blank wall. I've always wanted to do a gallery of photos there, instead.   Maybe … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds, My Nest, Office/Craft/Sewing Room, Travel Tagged With: , , , , , , ,



15 Products I Use and Love

June 10, 2015 by 49 Comments

It's been a while since I put together a post where I share the products I love, the ones that make my life better or a whole lot easier. This past weekend while visiting my son and daughter-in-law, my dil and I started talking about some of the things we enjoy using like hair products, lotions, etc... Today I'm sharing them all with you and if they are still available, I'll link to them where I … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Gift Ideas & Awesome Finds



A Forever Coat

February 13, 2015 by 92 Comments

I've never been a serious fashionista, but last summer I began to catch the bug. I had come across a cute fashion blogger named Sarah, who blogs at Classy Girls Wear Pearls.  I subscribed to her blog posts and over the past year while reading her blog, I began to learn about so many clothing brands and stores I'd never heard of before. Finding Sarah's blog has put a bit of a dent in my wallet, but in a … [Read more...]

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