Drama on the Drive Back and the Exploding Danger of Retread Tires

July 10, 2019 by 80 Comments

I wish I could say my drive back home from Ohio on Monday was uneventful, but unfortunately, it didn't work out that way. About 2-1/2 hours from home, as I was passing a red and green 18-wheeler truck on my right, suddenly one or more of its tires blew apart. With A LOT of tire tread headed straight for my windshield at interstate speeds, I braked hard and swerved to avoid it as much as I could while still … [Read more...]

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Why I’m No Longer Posting on Facebook (at least for now)

May 18, 2019 by 116 Comments

Update: I've had a few readers email me indicating they thought I was saying in this post that I would no longer be creating posts here on at the blog. Don't worry, I have no intentions of stopping blogging, you'll continue to find new posts here several days a week. I just won't be stopping by Facebook to link my blog posts there. Please read on for the reason why I'm making this change. Just a quick … [Read more...]

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So Many Signs of Spring

April 10, 2019 by 26 Comments

I just returned late yesterday from a week of visiting with family in Ohio. It was a gorgeous day as the plane took off from the Dayton airport. The pilot banked hard to the left and I found myself staring up at the gorgeous blue sky filled with fluffy white clouds.   I'm always amazed by how different the area surrounding the Dayton airport looks as compared to the Atlanta … [Read more...]

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An Uninvited Dinner Guest, AKA The Bear Who Came to Dinner

February 27, 2019 by 38 Comments

Have you ever had an uninvited dinner guest? Recently I mentioned in a post about some critters who were trying to take up residence inside the grill out on one of my decks. Since I so rarely used my grill and this wasn't the first time that had happened, I ended up giving the grill to a friend. Linda, a BNOTP reader, occasionally has uninvited guests visit her deck, too. What would you do if you looked … [Read more...]

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5 YouTube Channels To Check Out & All Are Very Different

February 13, 2019 by 26 Comments

I don't have cable TV, disconnected it last year because there was rarely anything on that I enjoyed watching, at least not enough to justify the cost. Now I subscribe to Acorn TV which I do enjoy when I remember to watch. lol Hey, did you know the new Agatha Raisin season is out on Acorn? I just discovered that a few days ago. I think there are only 4 episodes so far. I've only had time to watch Episode 1, … [Read more...]

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Big Changes in My Ancestry DNA Results! Did Your Results Change Too?

February 5, 2019 by 55 Comments

A couple of weeks ago a friend and I were chatting on the phone about her Ancestry DNA results. Her test results had just arrived and though some results were as she expected, others were quite surprising. During the conversation, she mentioned that the results showed her relatives had all settled in the Georgia-Florida area. Umm, that's interesting! When I had my DNA tested back in April 2016, it didn't … [Read more...]

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Embracing Winter with 3 Winter-Themed Tablescapes

January 3, 2019 by 36 Comments

Welcome to the 535th Tablescape Thursday! As we head into the coldest months of winter here in the U.S., I thought I'd share a few wintery tables from the past. I'll be leaving family to head back home soon, how did the holidays go by so quickly?! I'm sure you're asking the same thing...goes by faster every year, doesn't it? (Click on any title below to view more of that table setting.) A Wintery … [Read more...]

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Follow-up to Your Requests: 12 More Products I Use for Fabulous Before & Afters

October 29, 2018 by 30 Comments

Welcome to the 509th Metamorphosis Monday! Good Morning! I had hoped to post a lot more while traveling across Egypt. Unfortunately, fast WiFi has been sadly lacking in many of the hotels. It reminds me of the days of dial-up--remember those? Ugh. I wish I could fast-forward technology right now so every hotel in the world would have high-speed internet. Dreaming! Fortunately, I was finally able to … [Read more...]

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Vacation in The Bastle, a Farmhouse Reminiscent of Rosehill Cottage in the Movie, The Holiday

September 26, 2018 by 14 Comments

Imagine traveling to the northern part of England and staying in this 16th-century storybook home! This is The Bastle, a farmhouse built during the time Elizabeth I was Queen. Can you imagine?!   A nighttime view... This storybook stone cottage reminds me so much of the home in the movie, The Holiday. (Take a tour of that movie house here: Tour the Home in the Movie the … [Read more...]

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Almost Scammed As A Seller on eBay & Why I Won’t Use eBay Authenticate

September 11, 2018 by 52 Comments

Do you ever shop on eBay? I tend to shop on eBay in spurts. I may go months and not shop there at all, but occasionally if I'm looking for an item that's no longer being made or sold in stores, I'll search for it on eBay. I'm truly thankful eBay exists because I've purchased a number of things there over the years that I simply could not find anywhere else. Do you sell on eBay? I very rarely ever sell on … [Read more...]

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Change Can Be So Hard Sometimes

August 3, 2018 by 113 Comments

When I first moved into my home almost 30 years ago, I struggled to furnish it. As a faithful reader of Traditional Home and Colonial Homes magazines back then, I had fallen in love with classic-traditional furniture styles and antiques. I would regularly visit some of the best furniture stores in the Atlanta area--stores like Matthews Furniture, Beverly Hall, and Furniture Craftsman. I drooled over the … [Read more...]

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A Bit Like Having Your Own Personal Chef

July 30, 2018 by 35 Comments

Welcome to the 496th Metamorphosis Monday! Many years ago I read an article in the local paper about a woman who had worked her whole life in the corporate world. One day, tired of the intense stress under which she worked each day, she gave her notice and quit. She opened up her own business doing something she really loved: cooking! According to the article, she would drive to the home of her … [Read more...]

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Build a Vision Board: Inspiration & Daily Reminder of Your Dreams and Goals

July 11, 2018 by 66 Comments

Thoughts become things, this I do believe. Do you remember when the book/video called "The Secret" was all in the news? Though I couldn't get on board with much of what it espoused, one premise I took to heart was the idea that our day-to-day thoughts do greatly impact almost every facet of our lives. I truly believe, that which you focus on will often come to pass, be it good or bad. Of course, I'm … [Read more...]

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I’m Pretty Sure This is All Your Fault! ;)

June 9, 2018 by 30 Comments

Aloha! This is the theme I just loaded onto my phone, thanks for giving me the little push I needed! Thanks so much for all the wonderful tips and ideas you left in the comments of my last post! Sooo appreciated! I can't wait to share Maui with you for Metamorphosis Monday! If you're not already, be sure to follow on Instagram where I'll be posting photos regularly during this trip. You'll find the … [Read more...]

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The Elephants Who Came To Dinner

May 14, 2018 by 32 Comments

Welcome to the 485th Metamorphosis Monday! I've been visiting with family the last few weeks so don't have a typical Before and After to share, but I do have an amazing event to share that is a stunning Before and After. It only happens during the spring each year and draws visitors from everywhere. It makes me want to travel to Zambia so I can see it in person. Thanks goes to Winnie for sharing this … [Read more...]

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Massive Hair Loss, A Comfy Chair, Tablescape Thursday Reminder & Something Beautiful

April 24, 2018 by 75 Comments

Thanks for all the great suggestions for desk chairs. I think some of the recommendations may have been a bit more expensive than what I had in mind, but I will definitely look into the ones you suggested in the comments on yesterday's post. Thank you for that! When I returned the chair I had purchased back to Staples today, I asked the guy who rang up the return what chair was their best seller and the … [Read more...]

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Okay, But I Could Set the Building On Fire…

April 18, 2018 by 25 Comments

Yesterday I was stapling some papers together when my stapler up and died. The spring inside broke and after several frustrating moments trying to reconnect it, I gave up. Normally I would have persisted but I've been ready to ditch that stapler for a long time since it has always jammed about every other time I used it. In searching for a new stapler I came across one I knew I had to get. Do you … [Read more...]

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Spring Wardrobe Updates and How I’m Coping with the Pollen

March 27, 2018 by 15 Comments

The pollen has arrived here in full force! I knew something was up when I came down with a headache two days in a row. I almost never get headaches, so I figured it had to be the pollen. Yup, the screened porch is fairly covered with it right now, as are the benches on the front porch. Something funny: last night I took an Advil Sinus and Congestion pill because my head was hurting so much, I couldn't go … [Read more...]

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How I’m Preparing for Stormy Springtime Weather

March 24, 2018 by 27 Comments

I always look forward to spring each year, but there's one part of spring that I don't especially enjoy--the stormy weather we experience as the warm temps move in and clash with the cold that's already here. In years past we would get a lot of tornados during the months of March, April and May--peak tornado season. I'm not sure why, but thankfully, we haven't gotten that many the last few … [Read more...]

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Shopping Haul for Spring and Summer Entertaining

March 18, 2018 by 28 Comments

So often when I purchase new goodies to use in table settings, I don't get to share them with you until I have a chance to use them in a table setting, weeks or months later. By then, many of the things I'm sharing are often no longer available. So today I'm sharing some of the items I've purchased in the last week or so, just in case they are things you would also enjoy for your spring/summer tables. … [Read more...]

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It Took A While, But At Last It’s Done!

February 12, 2018 by 45 Comments

Welcome to the 472nd Metamorphosis Monday! Last September I shared some information I had gathered regarding the process of having VHS and 8mm Tapes transferred over to DVD. If you have the right equipment, you could probably do it yourself, but since the tapes I wanted to have converted over contained irreplaceable, precious memories of my son and other family members, some who are no longer here, I … [Read more...]

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First Day Results for My Little Impromptu Snack Bar

December 5, 2017 by 51 Comments

A few days ago in THIS post, I shared this really neat idea I saw on Instagram, a way to say "thanks" during the holiday season to those hard-working folks who deliver packages to our door so frequently during this time of year. I'm not sure who started this idea, but I think it may have been Linette at the Instagram account shown below. I order a lot of items online to avoid getting out into the Atlanta … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Gift Ideas, Christmas Holiday Home, Inspire



A New Door & Which Finial Do You Like Best

October 9, 2017 by 79 Comments

Welcome to the 454th Metamorphosis Monday! A few weeks ago I had the door to my  lower level replaced. Sadly, I no longer had a need for a pet door and the door had been scratched rather badly on the other side by the previous owner's dog. It has only taken me 27 years to replace it. I move at a glacial pace as Miranda Priestly would say of Andy in the movie, The Devil Wears Prada. That was on TV last … [Read more...]

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A Place To Call Home by James Farmer–Proof That Classic Design Is Alive and Well!

September 5, 2017 by 59 Comments

Over the past five years, the little decorating/design library in my home office has grown. There's still a little room left to add the occasional favorite book, but I have to be more selective now that space is becoming more limited. Recently I learned about a delightful designer by the name of James T. Farmer. Have you heard of him? I don't know how I missed him all these years, especially since he … [Read more...]

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Workstation Computer Glasses, A Major Quality-of-Life Improvement

May 15, 2017 by 42 Comments

Welcome to the 433rd Metamorphosis Monday! The week before I left for Morocco in mid-March, I forced myself to purchase new eye glasses. At one time I had two pairs for everyday use, but one pair mysteriously and unpredictably snapped in half one day for absolutely no reason. I lived in fear the other pair would do the same at any time. I have contacts I wear occasionally, but they don't work very … [Read more...]

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10 Books On My Decorating-Entertaining Book Wish List

March 15, 2017 by 15 Comments

I'm always scoping out the latest decorating, gardening and entertaining books and oh my goodness, I've come across some scrumptious ones lately! Click the title of any book to read more about that particular book. The Gentleman's Farm: Elegant Country House Living If the book is anything like the room pictured on the cover, I can't wait to get my hands on this one. The reviews look good, … [Read more...]

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A Very Weird, Very Strange Day

February 7, 2017 by 92 Comments

Thanks so much for all the amazing suggestions, ideas and input on yesterday's post. So much great information, things I would never have thought about. I will be referring back to your comments again and again when I am closer to beginning my master bath renovation. Your comments have also tremendously helped others who are facing a bath renovation, as well. There's nothing like hearing from folks who have … [Read more...]

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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...]

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Shopping for the Best & Most Realistic Artificial Christmas Tree

November 28, 2016 by 106 Comments

Welcome to the 409th Metamorphosis Monday! I'm having a tree dilemma this year. This is the tree that I normally set up in my living room.   And this is the tree I usually set up in my kitchen. Both trees were purchased many years ago in a Home Depot Expo during a big sale they had going on Black Friday. They have served me well for around 10 years now, but the last couple of years they … [Read more...]

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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



Christmas Preparations: Hanging the Wreaths

November 23, 2016 by 20 Comments

How are your Thanksgiving preparations going? I'm not hosting Thanksgiving at my house this year, so I've been busy working on other things, including getting the wreaths up on the windows.   Hanging the wreaths is usually the first bit of Christmas decorating I do each year since it's pretty much my favorite Christmas decoration of all.   One of the best parts about hanging … [Read more...]

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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



An Enchanting, Magical, Interactive Experience

November 14, 2016 by 64 Comments

Welcome to the 407th Metamorphosis Monday! I have the most beautiful, fun and enchanting thing to share with you today. It's not exactly a metamorphosis but in a way it is because after I "play" with it, I feel so relaxed. If you're not already in the mood for Christmas, it will definitely put you in the mood! This weekend, my friend, Sheila, shared the cutest thing I've seen in a while! Have you ever … [Read more...]

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Like Having a Personal Assistant

November 9, 2016 by 32 Comments

A month or so ago, I was in Marshalls and came across these lanterns. I love shopping in there this time of year because they always get in the cutest holiday goodies and you literally never know what you'll stumble upon. I'm not sure if these will end up in a table setting or on one of the porches for a little Christmas decorating. They may just show up in both.   These lanterns came with … [Read more...]

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5 Delightful Ways To Get Ready For Christmas

October 28, 2016 by 47 Comments

1.  Snowflake Swizzle Stirrers I came across these "Swizzle Stick Ice Molds" in Williams-Sonoma recently and bought one set to try them out.   Here's how they looked once frozen...cute!   They would be great for serving a mixed drink, or really any drink for the holiday season. I tried them out in some cranberry juice. No, I don't have my Fa La La plate out yet, just … [Read more...]

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



10 Ways to Stay Warm This Winter: My Winter Survival List, 2016

October 22, 2016 by 54 Comments

Those wonderfully high temps we had here in the Atlanta area this past week are starting to fade away. It got rather chilly last night. As I write this mid-afternoon, it's still 59° outside. I know that's not cold to most folks but it definitely falls into the category of "sweater weather" for this girl. Each year I put together a post with my favorites for surviving winter in comfort. Since our temps … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Inspire, Seasonal Decor



Transfer Old Videos to DVD or MP4 Files & Preserve Your Precious Memories

September 27, 2016 by 18 Comments

Do you have a drawer somewhere in your home filled with these? These were all in two small drawers in my family room. They date all the way back to the 80's and contain so many memories like birthdays, baseball games, ski trips, beach trips, scouting award ceremonies, swim meets, Christmases, trips to Disney World and Epcot, and a lot of "firsts" like the first time my son rode his bike without training … [Read more...]

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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



How I Turned a Guilty Pleasure Into Something That’s Actually Good For Me

September 12, 2016 by 48 Comments

Welcome to the 398th Metamorphosis Monday! I guess you might call today's Before and After a "Good Habit" metamorphosis or maybe a "healthy" Before and After. I don't have a lot of time for watching TV and truthfully, there aren't very many shows on that interest me these days. I did come across two recently that I enjoy; I'll share those toward the end of this post in case you're not familiar with … [Read more...]

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A Little Porch Chat and Answers To Your Questions

September 6, 2016 by 123 Comments

It's so beautiful outside today!   Grab that glass of iced tea and let's head out to the porch!   I had several ideas about things I could share with you today, but then I had a better idea. I'm always a little worried that I've missed a question you may have left in a comment. It would be easy to do because if I'm away from my home on an errand during the day, I'll often pull … [Read more...]

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A Match Contacted Me & Other Fun Updates

August 26, 2016 by 38 Comments

Happy Friday! Over the last few weeks, there have been so many things I've wanted to share but none of them were quite enough to create a whole post about, so I today I'm putting them all into one post. Contacted By a Match So remember back when I did the Ancestry DNA test? If you missed it when I got my results back, you'll find that post here: Ancestry DNA. After I got my results from … [Read more...]

Filed Under: In the Garden, Inspire



Milk and Yogurt For Those Who Are Dairy Intolerant Due to Casein Proteins

July 18, 2016 by 41 Comments

Welcome to the 390th Metamorphosis Monday! I was away this weekend visiting family so don't have a Before and After to share from home, but I do have an interesting discovery to share. During my visit I stopped by one of my favorite grocery stores in the area, Dorothy Lane Market. While shopping in Dorothy Lane, I overheard one of the product vendors talking with another customer about a milk they have … [Read more...]

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Today was the Closest I’ve Ever Come To Being Scammed

July 2, 2016 by 93 Comments

I'm not going to say I'm unscammable, because no one is, but I try to do everything I possibly can to avoid being hacked or scammed. I never click on links I don't recognize in emails. I have my phone number listed on the National Do Not Call list and I don't answer telephone calls from unknown numbers. I have long and complicated passwords for everything, as well as two-step verification for everything … [Read more...]

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AncestryDNA: My Surprising Results Are Back

May 20, 2016 by 70 Comments

If there's one thing I've learned during this process of having my DNA analyzed with AncestryDNA, it's the more you learn, the more you realize how complicated and involved this whole tracing your DNA heritage can be. The more you learn, the more questions you have. This stuff is intense, but every day the process is getting better and better. So here's how this process went for me: I ordered the kit … [Read more...]

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Where Do I Come From Anyway?

April 12, 2016 by 64 Comments

Ever since I first heard about DNA testing, I've wanted to give it a whirl. How cool would it be to learn if you really are a combination of all the places recorded in your baby book, or if there's more to your life's story than you know. When DNA testing was first made available, I waited for two reasons: 1. The cost and 2. Reliability. It used to be very pricey and I was a bit suspicious of the … [Read more...]

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When Life Has Other Plans

April 6, 2016 by 89 Comments

Yesterday I had plans to post taking you on a  fun antiquing trip to A Classy Flea, followed by a historic home tour or two, but fate had other plans. The last couple of days my friend, Linda, has been visiting along with her aunt, Diane. You may remember Linda from when I shared the week we spent together touring over 13 historic homes across Louisiana and Mississippi. (See some of the tours I've posted … [Read more...]

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My Decorating Book Wish List Just Got A Little Longer

February 26, 2016 by 20 Comments

I've just discovered another talented designer on Instagram whose pictures are like something from a fairytale or a movie. Check out the Instagram account of nicolasdepompadour. Nicolas has a beautiful home and is very well-traveled, so he shares some absolutely gorgeous photos of stunning rooms and gardens. He also has an adorable doggie named Sophie who is completely devoted to him and often appears in … [Read more...]

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10 Books On My Decorating, Gardening, Entertaining Wish List

October 7, 2015 by 10 Comments

Pssst: By the time this post goes live, I'll be in Italy. I'll be sharing photos from there regularly on Instagram and would love to have you follow the fun! You'll find BNOTP on Instagram here: Between Naps On The Porch Instagram Normally when I share a decorating, gardening or entertaining/table setting book with you, it's always one I already own. I have a "Wish List" of books I would love to … [Read more...]

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In The BNOTP Library: Decorating Safari Style

September 19, 2015 by 5 Comments

I created this post before leaving for Africa this past Tuesday. By the time you read it, I hope to be sleeping in a bed that looks like this. Though I don't wish for a plague of mosquitoes, isn't this just the most romantic look! If you find this style of decor enchanting, you'll find lots of inspiration for incorporating a little of it into your decor in the books I'm sharing … [Read more...]

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In The BNOTP Library: African Safari Journal

September 15, 2015 by 4 Comments

Though this book isn't a decor book, I've enjoyed it so much during the time I was preparing for my trip, I wanted to share it with you in case you have any interest in traveling to or learning about Africa and the birds and animals who inhabit this area.   In the BNOTP Library: African Safari Journal Author: Mark W. Nolting 3 Things I Like About This Book: The name of this book … [Read more...]

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My Favorites In One Spot

July 8, 2015 by 29 Comments

One of the most popular posts here at Between Naps On The Porch are the ones where I share products I really like or that make my life a little easier.  Whenever I use something (like this morning when I was putting on mascara) I think, "This would be a good thing to share in a "10 Things I Can't Live Without post." Unfortunately, when I finally get around to creating those posts, I can't always remember … [Read more...]

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A Tablescaping Mini-Haul

June 17, 2015 by 20 Comments

I haven't been shopping for tablescaping goodies in a long time. Today is the first day I have felt like getting out since I became sick with whatever it was I had. On my first trip out into the real world, I treated myself to a visit to Marshalls. It felt so good to get out of the house and just be normal again...well, as normal as I ever get. ;) I found some cute things for summer entertaining and I … [Read more...]

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Feeling Nostalgic

June 5, 2015 by 49 Comments

I'm working on a little project at my son's house, I'll be sharing it real soon. Today it involved putting together a table.   I love the city where they live. I need to take some photos of some of the houses I saw today. They were wonderful! The streets in this area are wide, tree-lined avenues with sidewalks on both sides. As I drive down the streets, I feel like I'm in another world, … [Read more...]

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In The BNOTP Library: Bringing Tuscany Home

May 9, 2015 by 7 Comments

With all things "Tuscany" on the brain these days, I have just the book to share. Author, Frances Mayes has written some great books over the years. One even inspired a movie, remember Under the Tuscan Sun? After seeing the movie and loving it, I purchased that book, as well as two of her other books, In Tuscany and Bella Tuscany. I loved them all. They aren't action-packed page turners but they are … [Read more...]

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No Matter Where It Finds You

April 24, 2015 by 30 Comments

On Monday evening I drove into Atlanta to visit a store inside Phipps Plaza.   I purposely drove in late to avoid the end-of-day, going home traffic. I finished my shopping just before the store closed at 8:00 PM.   As I was leaving, something caught my eye.   We get a finite number of sunsets in our lifetime. So much beauty and it's completely free. Stop and … [Read more...]

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In The BNOTP Library: Sharing My Decor Library

April 14, 2015 by 13 Comments

Can you believe it's been almost a full year since I first began sharing favorite books from my decor library. In that time I've shared 118 of my favorite books on the topics of Decorating/Design, Entertaining, and Gardening! Thanks so much to the four thousand BNOTP readers who have subscribed to receive, In The BNOTP Library posts! You are the reason creating these posts is so much fun!   I … [Read more...]

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In The BNOTP Library: Great Traditional Style

March 13, 2015 by 9 Comments

When I came across this book a few years back, it was like finding buried treasure. It's one of those books that can be had for a song on Amazon but is worth so much more.   In the BNOTP Library: GREAT TRADITIONAL STYLE Author: Shelley Stewart Hardcover: 287 pages   3 Things I Like About This Book: Lots of beautiful houses featured from large historical homes to  lovely … [Read more...]

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In The BNOTP Library: Vintage Vavoom

February 17, 2015 by 4 Comments

The book I'm sharing today is for those of us who love antiquing or hitting the flea markets and decorating with our vintage finds. I knew when I bought this book two years ago I would love it...it's by the editors of Romantic Homes Magazine.   In the BNOTP Library: Vintage Vavoom: Romantic Decorating with One-of-a-Kind Finds Author: The Editors of Romantic Homes Magazine Hardcover: 218 … [Read more...]

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A Few Of My Favorite Reads This Past Year, What Were Yours?

February 4, 2015 by 45 Comments

I listen to a lot of books on Audible...around 8-10 each month. If I'm driving on an errand, sitting in traffic or on a long trip, a book is playing. If I'm sorting through the way-too-many pictures I've taken for a post and cropping or editing them, a book is playing. If I'm washing dishes, folding laundry, staining the deck, planting shrubs, spreading pine straw or cleaning out the garage, a book is … [Read more...]

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Farm Living Is The Life For Me

February 3, 2015 by 42 Comments

I'm always taking pictures to share with you. Last summer I took some photos but never found a good time to share them here on the blog. It's really cold here today in Georgia and I'm craving a little summer. I thought you might be, too. We're headed up to the farm today where it's still summertime. So for the next few minutes, let's forget all about the cold. Where we're going, there's nothing but green … [Read more...]

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



My Winter Survival List, 2015

January 20, 2015 by 48 Comments

We've had the mildest winter so far here in Georgia. As I type this, it's 67 degrees outside. That's one of the things I've always loved about living here, winters are usually a mix of cold temps with surprise weeks thrown in when you would swear spring had arrived. Georgia weather always keeps you guessing. Despite this beautiful sunny day, I know the cold temps are coming back. The last few years I've … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Inspire



Designer, Mary Carol Garrity Has A New Cottage Home!

January 2, 2015 by 50 Comments

Are you as big a Mary Carol Garrity fan as I am? If so, I have some really big news. You may have already heard but Mary Carol Garrity has moved! Yep, she has moved from her beautiful, Atchison, Kansas home featured so often in her books, the same home she has graciously opened up for tours over the years. Mary Carol and her husband, Dan, have decided it's the perfect time in their life to downsize to a … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Beach & Lake Homes, Designers at Home, Home Tours, Inspire, Storybook Cottages Tagged With: , , , , ,



In The BNOTP Library: A Passion For Detail

September 13, 2014 by 9 Comments

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

Filed Under: BNOTP Library, Inspire



In The BNOTP Library: Nathan Turner’s American Style

July 4, 2014 by 6 Comments

Happy 4th of July weekend! How about a book filled with a little red, white and blue and some "American style" decorating, west coast style.   Are you a Nathan Turner fan? I rarely watch TV so wasn't familiar with his work until I came across this book last year. You'll find an eclectic mix of rooms in this book, lots of fresh ideas for decorting your home. Hope you enjoy checking it out this … [Read more...]

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In The BNOTP Library: Classic Greenwich Style

June 24, 2014 by 4 Comments

You would laugh at me if you saw me getting ready to write a "BNOTP Library" post. I get up from my desk, walk over to the bookshelves here in the office and start pulling books off the shelf--one after the other, agonizing over which of my children is my favorite today. Okay, well at least that's how it seems when I'm going through the process. You would think I'm preparing to write the last "In The … [Read more...]

Filed Under: BNOTP Library, Inspire



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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The Enchanting Dutch Door

April 30, 2014 by 50 Comments

They are enchanting aren't they! Dutch doors are the best of both worlds, they keep the pets and little ones inside while letting the sunshine and fresh air flow through. I love the Zuber wall paper featuring "Scenes from North America" in this entry.  Such a beautiful foyer! Source If you live in the sunny south, this would be an early spring or late fall happening since during the warm summer months … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY Decorating, Inspire, Storybook Cottages Tagged With: ,



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: 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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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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Lost in Time, An Interactive Blog Post Where You Complete the Story

January 14, 2014 by 35 Comments

Before reading today's post, you'll want to read this previous post for it to make sense: Paris Apartment, Another World Frozen in Time After reading about the Paris apartment abandoned for seven decades, I lay in bed that night thinking how great it would be if we could fill in the blanks, imagine the rest of the story behind this mysterious tale. The next day, several folks left comments on that post … [Read more...]

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My Winter Survival List for Winter 2014

November 6, 2013 by 126 Comments

Each January for the last two years, I've put together a winter survival list with my top 10 favorites for surviving winter. Instead of waiting until we're deep into winter, I thought I'd share my faves now as the cold weather and winter looms ahead. I think what got me in the mood for this is the drizzly, cold overcast day I awoke to today. I'm actually kind of enjoying it, though...makes this heater … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Inspire



Sunday, You’re So Good to Me

October 20, 2013 by 29 Comments

Sunday, time to sit back and relax a little. You've worked hard alllll week.   A good book...   ...and a "Rustic Retreat" candle, I'm totally addicted to the scent.  They can be found in Walmart but don't buy them all because I'm going back for a few more. ;)   Then there's this: Loved it so much...   I went back for more. I also bought the Caramel … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Inspire



A Treasured Heirloom

August 26, 2013 by 139 Comments

Welcome to the 239th Metamorphosis Monday! Recently True Value asked if I would share a story about an "heirloom" piece passed down through my family. Immediately, a special chair came to mind. It's an heirloom piece that played an important part in our everyday life for many years, starting when we moved into our first home, a yellow cottage in a small Alabama town where my husband was stationed on … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, DIY Decorating, Inspire



Pete the Cat, The Whimsical Art of James Dean

May 17, 2013 by 36 Comments

Each week when I take Max to Georgia Veterinary Specialist, we wait in the "cat" waiting room until it's time for him to go back for his chemo treatment.  The walls in that area are decorated with some great kitty cat art.  Yesterday, I snapped some pics with my cell phone to share it with you.  I saved my favorite for last. Pete the Cat looked vaguely familiar to me, but I wasn't sure why.  It turns out … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Inspire



Secret Lives Between the Pages

May 14, 2013 by 79 Comments

If you subscribe to the Between Naps on the Porch newsletter, Postcards from the Porch, you know I always highlight a couple of books I'm reading that week at the end of each newsletter.  Sometimes the books are recent finds, other times they are books I've had for a years and have pulled back off the shelf to enjoy again. A few months ago I ordered the book, Forgotten Bookmarks, a book Amazon … [Read more...]

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The Morning Room

April 29, 2013 by 73 Comments

Welcome to the 223rd Metamorphosis Monday! Do you have a room in your home that's your absolute favorite spot to be in the early morning? My upstairs family room is that room for me. You may recognize the next 2-3 pictures since I've shared them before here on BNOTP.  This room is a cheerful, bright room, but early in the morning it's truly a sunny, happy spot to be.   One of the reasons this … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Inspire, Living Room/Bonus (Upstairs), My Nest



My Dream Home

February 20, 2013 by 125 Comments

At some point during the day, nearly every single day, I catch myself dreaming about living in an adorable cottage in a small town or rural area. I've never been a city girl so living 20 minutes outside Atlanta is definitely not my cup of tea. The city I live in is super congested and traffic is always bad unless it's 10:00 AM on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday or 10:00 at night.  I do all my grocery … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Inspire, New Old Homes, Storybook Cottages Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,



Brass is Back, Baby!

January 29, 2013 by 143 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...]

Filed Under: DIY, DIY Decorating, Inspire Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,



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



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...]

Filed Under: Inspire



A Secret Message

August 6, 2012 by 49 Comments

Welcome to the 185th Metamorphosis Monday! I don't have a "home" related Before and After to share this week.   Well, actually I did but I couldn't wait and shared my mirror update a few days ago.  So for this Met Monday, I thought I'd share a very different kind of "Before and After."  It's a romantic "Before and After." Once upon a time there was a Bride and a Groom.    The morning of … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Inspire, Valentine's Day Crafts, Valentine's Day Holiday Home



Sweet Max: A Story of Adoption and Healing

July 20, 2012 by 192 Comments

I ♥ cats!   Most of my friends love cats too and the few that were either anti-cat or on the fence, tell me Mr. Max is the first cat they've ever met that they really like.  Max has a way of winning over the most ardent cat hater. Max has developed a bit of a fan club in the four years I've been blogging. If several weeks go by and he doesn't show up in a post, I start to get comments and emails asking … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Inspire Tagged With: , , , , ,



20+ Products I Can’t Live Without

February 3, 2012 by 117 Comments

I've been working on this post in my head for months.  Every time I do or use something here in my home that I love or can't do without,  I have thought about this post.  It isn't written to endorse any particular brand, although that's invariably going to happen just because sometimes it's a particular brand that does the job just the way I want it done.  If I really prefer that brand, I'll mention it in … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY Repairs and Fixes, Inspire



10 Must-Haves on My Winter Survival List

January 17, 2012 by 142 Comments

I love, love, love hot weather.  When I used to work in an office environment, when my fellow office mates thought the temperature was just right, I was cold.  If it felt just right to me in the office, everyone else was roasting.   Cold weather is not my friend. Over the years I've found ways to deal with Old Man Winter.  Today I thought I'd share a few things that are high on the "Susan's Winter … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Inspire Tagged With: ,



Near Abductions: My Story

August 3, 2011 by 127 Comments

Sometimes you see something on TV and it hits home. A couple of weeks ago, I caught part of the show, 60 Minutes.  They were interviewing two young ladies who had been kidnapped as children but were miraculously able to escape a few days after their abduction. That virtually never happens...escaping. The abuse they suffered permanently altered their lives in very negative ways.  They still struggle today … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Inspire



Fairytale Furniture

April 12, 2011 by 23 Comments

Recently, I came across some of the cutest, most whimsical furniture you could ever imagine. I knew I had to share it with you. This furniture transports you straight into a fairytale. There's an Accordion Dresser... This piece is called the "Beaver Cabinet." Sooo fun! Boom Cabinet: This chest appears to have exploded. Ha! To get this look, you just hang the individual drawers on the wall … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Inspire, Storybook Cottages Tagged With: , , ,



A Love Story for Valentine’s Day

February 12, 2011 by 105 Comments

The most fabulous benefit of having a blog is all the wonderful folks it brings into your life. I have truly met some of the nicest Dearhearts over the past two years. Recently, I was chatting with Phyllis and she shared a little about her wonderful parents and their life together. It's the most perfect love story and with Valentine's Day only a few days away, I knew I had to share it with you. Phyllis … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Inspire, The Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Decor, Valentine's Day Holiday Home Tagged With: ,



A Sign?

January 9, 2011 by 63 Comments

My Day: Meet friend for lunch. Shop with friend for office furniture in largest Pottery Barn in the United States. Say bye to friend. Head to Pottery Barn near home to drool over office furniture some more. Bump into more friends in Pottery Barn. Have fun visit. Leave Pottery Barn. Drive by TCBY on the way home. Go through drive-thru and order low-fat yogurt cone. Spot "Fudge Brownie Sundae" on … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Inspire Tagged With:



For The Past Two Years, I’ve Been Leading a Double Life

October 22, 2010 by 206 Comments

Yes, it's true. Shocking as it may sound, for the past two years I've been leading a double life. While my evenings and weekends blogging have been surrounded in creativity, beauty and truth, my days have been immersed in deception, lies, drug abuse, mental and physical abuse, neglect, and exploitation. For the last 8 years, between the hours of 7:30 AM and 5:00 PM, I have worked full-time for the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Blogging, Inspire Tagged With: