Celebrate Valentine’s Day (and All the Holidays) with a Decorated Tree Year-Round

February 17, 2020 by 16 Comments

Welcome to the 577th Metamorphosis Monday! Many years ago, I used to race to get my Christmas tree down before the strike of midnight on New Year's Eve. Growing up here in the south, I used to hear folks say, "It's bad luck to keep your tree up beyond New Year's Eve." Pshaw! Who started that rumor anyway? lol Now I leave my tree up well beyond New Year's and I'm always sad when it's time to take it … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Valentine's Day Decor, Valentine's Day Holiday Home Tagged With: ,



A Woodland-Themed Valentine’s Day Table—Not Your Usual Valentine’s Day Table

February 13, 2020 by 79 Comments

Welcome to the 595th Tablescape Thursday! With Valentine's Day tomorrow, I thought it would be appropriate to place this week's tablescape here in my very red dining room. lol   This table is not your usual Valentine's Day table.   But there are definitely some red hearts here and there.   The idea for this table popped into my head a few weeks ago when I came … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Tablescape Thursday, Valentine's Day Table Settings, Valentine's Day Tablescapes, Winter Tablescapes Tagged With: , , ,



A Romantic Candlelit Table for Valentine’s Day

February 14, 2019 by 49 Comments

Welcome to the 541st Tablescape Thursday! Never seems to matter what time of the morning/day I begin putting a table together for Tablescape Thursday, I never seem to complete it until after nightfall. Candlelight pictures are nice, right? :) But I would still like to share some daytime photos with you, so you'll find those further down in this post. These were taken last night and the daylight … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Romantic Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday, Valentine's Day Table Settings, Valentine's Day Tablescapes Tagged With: , , , ,



Valentine’s Day & The 50 Greatest Love Letters of All Time

February 11, 2019 by 42 Comments

Welcome to the 524th Metamorphosis Monday! Years ago I had a bunny-painted window hanging atop the windows in the upstairs family room.   After a while, I began to crave seeing the windows in their wide-open, natural state, so I took Miss Bunny down.   She now stands guard in the garage over a potting bench. I may move her back to the bonus room one day, but for now I really … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, BNOTP Library, Valentine's Day Decor, Valentine's Day Holiday Home



A Valentine’s Day Table, Plus a DIY Heart-Wreath Topiary Craft

February 15, 2018 by 15 Comments

Welcome to the 490th Tablescape Thursday! How was your Valentine's Day? I hope it was lovely and that you were surrounded with lots of loved from those you love the most. I have a beautiful Valentine's Day table to share with you today. Elinda, who reads BNOTP, enjoys entertaining and creating beautiful table settings for her family. She recently shared some wonderful photos of the table she put … [Read more...]

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



A Feather Tree for Valentine’s Day

February 14, 2018 by 37 Comments

Happy Valentine's Day! Hope you are having a lovely one! We are having some amazing springtime weather here right now. The daffodils are already up all over my yard, though not blooming yet. Whenever this happens early, I always panic a little, fearing they will get frozen when the cold weather returns. Then I come across photos like this on my computer and remember it's not the first time daffodils have … [Read more...]

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



Valentine’s Day Table Setting with a Guest Appearance by the Easter Bunny

February 1, 2018 by 73 Comments

Welcome to the 488th Tablescape Thursday! We are in the dining room for this week's Tablescape Thursday.   It was quite late when I took these photos, so please excuse some of the darker pics.   Update: Adding a photo taken this morning with a bit of natural light coming in through the windows.   Have you ever wondered what the Easter Bunny does during the off … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday, Valentine's Day Table Settings, Valentine's Day Tablescapes Tagged With: , , , ,



One Dish, Many Celebrations

November 23, 2017 by 27 Comments

Welcome to the 478th Tablescape Thursday! Hope you are having a wonderful Thanksgiving with family and friends this week. I'm away enjoying visiting with family, so don't have a table to share, but I have something table related that I hope you'll enjoy. Recently I purchased something as a Christmas gift for a family member and loved it so much, I purchased one for myself, as well. You may remember … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Table Settings, Easter Holiday Home, Easter Table Settings, Halloween Table Settings, Independence Day Table Settings, New Year's Table Settings, St. Patrick's Day Table Settings, Tablescape Thursday, Thanksgiving Table Settings, The Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Table Settings Tagged With: , , ,



17 Charger Plate Ideas for Your Next Dinner Party

June 1, 2017 by 76 Comments

Welcome to the 454th Tablescape Thursday! Whenever I set a table for friends or family, I often use a charger plate underneath the dinner plate. I love the way they enhance a setting, adding another pretty layer and providing a base for each place setting. They are also practical as they help catch drips that would otherwise fall on the table or tablecloth. Back in early 2008, before I ever began … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Academy Awards Tablescapes, Beachy Tablescapes, Birthday Tablescapes, Breakfast Tablescapes, Children's Tablescapes, Christmas Table Settings, Christmas Tablescapes, Easter Holiday Home, Easter Table Settings, Easter Tablescapes, Fall Tablescapes, Halloween Table Settings, Halloween Tablescapes, Independence Day Table Settings, Independence Day Tablescapes, Mardi Gras Table Settings, Mardi Gras Tablescapes, New Year's Table Settings, New Year's Tablescapes, Safari Tablescapes, Shower Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, St. Patrick's Day Table Settings, St. Patrick's Day Tablescapes, Tables for Two, Tablescape Thursday, Tea Party Tablescapes, Thanksgiving Table Settings, Thanksgiving Tablescapes, Valentine's Day Table Settings, Valentine's Day Tablescapes, Winter Tablescapes Tagged With: , , , , , , ,



A Beautiful Table Setting to Honor a Special Life

March 2, 2017 by 45 Comments

Welcome to the 441st Tablescape Thursday! Elena  planned a special Valentine's Day table this year. She wanted it to be extra special for her family, especially since her sister Anna would be attending. Anna had a heart transplant in January 2000 and during the past year she had been very sick.   Unfortunately, Anna didn't have the opportunity to attend this special dinner in person, … [Read more...]

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



Beautiful Valentine’s Day Table Settings & A Clever Idea for Candle Storage

February 16, 2017 by 48 Comments

Welcome to the 439th Tablescape Thursday! Last week I used the very latest version of InLinkz for Metamorphosis Monday and Tablescape Thursday. For most folks, it worked fine, but I've heard from 4-5 readers who were unable to see the party links. Until we can figure out what's causing that issue, I've gone back to using the old version of InLinkz for today. If you were having an issue seeing the … [Read more...]

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



Valentine’s Day Decorations: Decorate the Porch, Front Door and a Valentine’s Day Tree

February 14, 2017 by 36 Comments

Happy Valentine's Day! Hope your day was absolutely grand! The weather here continues to be amazingly beautiful. I'm sure Mother Nature is going to wake up at any moment and realize that while she was napping, spring snuck in. Until she does, we will continue to enjoy these 60 and 70 degree, sun-filled days. Even the birds in my backyard were chirping up a storm today. They seem as excited about these … [Read more...]

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



Valentine’s Day Table with Vintage Copeland Spode, Tower

February 9, 2017 by 66 Comments

Welcome to the 438th Tablescape Thursday! Please Note: I'm using the latest version of InLinkz for today's Tablescape Thursday party. If you have trouble seeing the links (or the button to link up to the party) please check to make sure you are using the latest version of your browser. You may have trouble seeing the links or linking up if your browser is an older version. Thanks so much for all your … [Read more...]

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



Where Did You Get That Flatware?

July 21, 2016 by 54 Comments

Welcome to the 409th Tablescape Thursday! I've been out of town visiting with family for the last five days and just got back late yesterday evening. Since I wasn't home to create a tablescape, I thought it might be fun to put together a post all about flatware. Flatware is to a table setting what jewelry or shoes are to an outfit. The right flatware can be the perfect finishing touch to a beautiful … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Beachy Tablescapes, Children's Tablescapes, Christmas Table Settings, Christmas Tablescapes, Easter Holiday Home, Easter Table Settings, Easter Tablescapes, Fall Tablescapes, Halloween Table Settings, Halloween Tablescapes, Independence Day Table Settings, Independence Day Tablescapes, Mardi Gras Tablescapes, New Year's Table Settings, New Year's Tablescapes, Romantic Tablescapes, Safari Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, St. Patrick's Day Table Settings, St. Patrick's Day Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday, Thanksgiving Table Settings, Thanksgiving Tablescapes, Valentine's Day Table Settings, Valentine's Day Tablescapes, Winter Tablescapes



Valentine’s Day Table Setting with Vintage Copeland Spode Tower

February 4, 2016 by 43 Comments

Welcome to the 385th Tablescape Thursday! With Valentine's Day just a couple of weeks away, I'm sharing a fun Valentine's Day table setting today. Valentine's Day is normally a romantic celebration for two, but I couldn't resist putting together a whimsical setting for the holiday.   Mr. Bunny is back and he brought us some goodies! He has acted as the centerpiece in many previous … [Read more...]

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



Ideas for Valentine’s Day Tables

January 28, 2016 by 28 Comments

Welcome to the 384th Tablescape Thursday! Valentine's Day is just a couple of weeks away. Here's a little inspiration for making it a special day. ♥ Click on and the title below to access that post for more information! ♥ Make Heart Shaped Cakes with this Recipe   Make Music-Covered Hearts for Valentine's Day   Valentine's Day Table with a Heart-Tree … [Read more...]

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



No More Faking It

February 16, 2015 by 104 Comments

Welcome to the 316th Metamorphosis Monday! Thanks for sharing all the wonderful stories about your Barbour jackets in the comments on Friday's post. I had so much fun reading those. If there's one thing I've learned during the process of researching and finally buying a Barbour coat is that Barbour coat owners love and are passionate about their coats. They talk about them like you would a trusted and … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Bedroom (Master), DIY Decorating, My Nest, Valentine's Day Decor, Valentine's Day Holiday Home Tagged With: , , , , ,



Plaid, Paisley and Velvet For Valentine’s Day

February 5, 2015 by 53 Comments

Welcome to the 333rd Tablescape Thursday! This week I'm sharing a Valentine's Day table setting that's a little different. I experimented around with mixing different patterns including plaid, paisley and velvet-edged napkin sheaths with a burlap-like look. The overall result is a Valentine's Day table setting with a bit of a masculine feel.     A red lantern worked well as a … [Read more...]

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



Valentine’s Day Table Settings, Napkin Folds & Recipes

January 29, 2015 by 45 Comments

Welcome to the 332nd Tablescape Thursday! Before we get into this week's Tablescape Thursday, I just wanted to say you guys are GOOD! It didn't take long for you to name every single one of the books yesterday! Can you imagine being the person who designed the Quotes throw. I don't know how they ever decided what books to feature, that would have been torture! Saving At Checkout I also wanted to … [Read more...]

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



Moonlight & Magnolias, Romantic Table Setting for Two

June 5, 2014 by 80 Comments

Welcome to the 299th Tablescape Thursday! The magnolia trees are in bloom here in Georgia, I love their sweet "lemonade" scent.   It was warm out, but not too warm for a tablescape for two on the deck.   I cut a few magnolia blossoms for our centerpiece and tucked them down inside a white pitcher.   Rarely do I find two magnolia blossoms really close together … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tables for Two, Tablescape Thursday, Valentine's Day Table Settings, Valentine's Day Tablescapes Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,



Whimsical Valentine’s Day Tablescape, Alice in Wonderland Style

February 13, 2014 by 79 Comments

Welcome to the 283rd Tablescape Thursday! Happy "day-before" Valentine's Day! I love creating whimsical table settings and I love creating themed tablescapes. This table setting is a combination of both, a Valentine's Day setting with an extra-large helping of whimsy on the side.   It all started when I stopped by the dollar store about a week ago to check out their gift wrap. While there … [Read more...]

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



3 Valentine’s Day Table Settings

February 6, 2014 by 42 Comments

Welcome to the 282nd Tablescape Thursday! I've been working on a little project this past week that's taking a fair amount of time...hope to share it before long. Since I didn't have a chance to put a tablescape together for this week, I'm sharing links to three oldies but goodies from the past.   Just click on the title of the tablescape to visit that past table setting where you'll find … [Read more...]

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



Valentine’s Day Heart-Shaped Napkin Fold Tutorial

January 23, 2014 by 36 Comments

Welcome to the 280th Tablescape Thursday! Two years ago, the day before Valentine's Day, I posted about a few Valentine's Day decorations in the guest room.  I decorated the foot of the bed with heart garland.   I placed a little teascape on a wicker tray along with a few sweet-scented daffodils cut from the garden.   For this cheerful tea setting, I created a cute, heart … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Napkin Folding Tutorials, Romantic Tablescapes, Shower Tablescapes, Tables for Two, Tablescape Thursday, Tablescapes Holiday Tablescapes, Valentine's Day Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Napkin Folds, Valentine's Day Table Settings, Valentine's Day Tablescapes Tagged With: , , , ,



25 Scrumptious Valentine’s Day Desserts

January 21, 2014 by 25 Comments

Valentine's Day is only about 3 weeks away and it's got me thinking about yummy desserts. I've put together a collection of 25 beautiful, delicious, makes-your-heart-go-pitter-patter desserts. ♥ Hope you enjoy this Valentine's Day inspired collection of scrumptious desserts!   Hope you find something yummy and inspiring for your Valentine's Day! Just click on the title and it will … [Read more...]

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



10 Fun Denim Projects, Including One for Valentine’s Day

January 11, 2014 by 2 Comments

Happy Weekend! Itching for a fun craft project? Got some old jeans? Twenty-one new projects crafted from old jeans or repurposed denim have been added to Denim Do Over, including one that's perfect for Valentine's Day! ♥ No-Sew Projects Did you know Denim Do Over isn't just for those who sew?  You'll find 25 projects at DDO requiring no sewing skills at all or just the amount needed to sew on a … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Denim Do Over, Valentine's Day Crafts, Valentine's Day Holiday Home Tagged With:



Emergency Substitutions for Common Ingredients

November 27, 2013 by 26 Comments

There's nothing more stressful when preparing a big holiday dinner than running out of a key ingredient, especially when there's no time to run back to the store. Here's a list I compiled of popular substitutions for some of the more common ingredients we sometimes run low on. Hope this helps your cooking go a bit smoother this holiday season! Happy Thanksgiving! Image from … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Holiday Home, Christmas Recipes, Easter Recipes, Halloween Recipes, Independence Day Holiday Home, Independence Day Recipes, New Year's Recipes, Recipes, St. Patrick's Day Recipes, Thanksgiving Holiday Home, Thanksgiving Recipes, Valentine's Day Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Recipes



21 Delicious Party Drinks for the Holiday Season

November 20, 2013 by 35 Comments

It will soon be party time! Even if you're not having a big party this year, chances are you will have family and friends stopping in during the holidays. Treat them to a special drink that's as pretty as it is tasty! I spent several hours yesterday searching for the yummiest and most beautiful party drinks I could find. I'm pretty excited about this list, I think it will be my go-to spot for holiday … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Holiday Home, Christmas Recipes, Independence Day Holiday Home, Independence Day Recipes, New Year's Recipes, Recipes, Thanksgiving Holiday Home, Thanksgiving Recipes, Valentine's Day Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Recipes



Enjoy Dining Outdoors for Summer

August 8, 2013 by 86 Comments

Welcome to the 256th Tablescape Thursday! For this week's Tablescape Thursday, I created a little table setting out on the deck.   Just as I finished putting it together, I heard thunder. Yikes! Some fast picture-taking took place and just as I took the last photo, the raindrops began to fall. Whew, it was a close one.   Hope you enjoy this table setting for two. As I was … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tables for Two, Tablescape Thursday, Tablescapes Occasion, Valentine's Day Table Settings, Valentine's Day Tablescapes Tagged With: , ,



You’ve Got Mail

June 11, 2013 by 135 Comments

A while back I was in the mood for a feel-good movie.  I pulled out the movie, You've Got Mail, starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, remember that movie?  I pretty much love any movie with Tom Hanks or Meg Ryan.  You've Got Mail is a 1998 American romantic comedy set in Manhattan (Upper West Side) of New York City. Today I thought I'd take you on a little tour of the wonderful places we get to go in the movie. … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Movie House Tours, Movie Houses, Valentine's Day Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Movies Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , ,



Sabrina: Beautiful Glen Cove

April 23, 2013 by 52 Comments

I'm a  total sucker for romantic comedies. Life may not always turn out the way it does in the movies, but it sure is fun to "escape" to a fantasy world where the guy always gets the girl and the girl always gets her Prince Charming, even if he is slightly flawed in the beginning. Sabrina, a 1995 remake of the Billy Wilder 1954 original with Humphrey Bogart, Audrey Hepburn and William Holden, is a rom … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Home Tours, Movie House Tours, Movie Houses, Valentine's Day Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Movies Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,



Wide Ironing Boards Make Ironing Easier

March 11, 2013 by 94 Comments

Welcome to the 216th Metamorphosis Monday! Recently I made an upgrade most folks would probably not get too excited about, but I'm actually pretty excited!  While out shopping a couple of weeks ago, I found myself in the ironing board isle of a local home product store. Guess what I discovered?  Ironing boards come in wider sizes! Did  you know this?  I had absolutely no idea. I didn't buy an ironing … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Christmas Napkin Folds, DIY Organization and Storage, Easter Napkin Folds, Napkin Folding Tutorials, Thanksgiving Holiday Home, Thanksgiving Napkin Folds, Valentine's Day Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Napkin Folds Tagged With: , ,



Valentine’s Day Table Settings, Great for the Kids

February 14, 2013 by 57 Comments

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

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



Valentine’s Day Table Settings: Casual and Elegant

February 7, 2013 by 47 Comments

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

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



Children’s Valentine’s Day Table Setting

January 31, 2013 by 36 Comments

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

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



An Enchanting Blue Hour Sky

January 26, 2013 by 46 Comments

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

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



Valentine’s Day Decorating Ideas

January 25, 2013 by 35 Comments

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

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



A Valentine’s Day Table Setting, Elegant and Whimsical

January 24, 2013 by 57 Comments

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

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



Porch Decorated for Valentine’s Day

January 22, 2013 by 52 Comments

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

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



How to Make Rose-Scented Sugar

August 20, 2012 by 59 Comments

Welcome to the 187th Metamorphosis Monday! One of my favorite books is Roses for the Scented Room by Barbara Milo Ohrbach.  In fact, I love all her books including Antiques at Home, The Scented Room and Tabletops.  I just ordered A Passion for Antiques this evening.   All her books are very affordable at Amazon, especially if you buy them used in "Good" or "Like New" condition, which is what I almost … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Easter Holiday Home, Easter Recipes, Recipes, Tablescapes Holiday Tablescapes, Valentine's Day Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Recipes, Valentine's Day Table Settings, Valentine's Day Tablescapes Tagged With: , ,



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



Make Heart-Shaped Sugar Cubes for Parties: A Tutorial

March 28, 2012 by 50 Comments

Recently while reading a Country Living magazine, I came across the cutest heart-shaped sugar cubes.  The magazine shared where they could be ordered but I decided to try making my own.  I thought they would be fun for parties, especially tea parties or to offer guests with coffee after dinner. Instead of white cubes as shown in the article, I decided to color mine.  Since it's so close to Easter, I … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY, DIY Decor Knock-offs, Recipes, Tablescapes Occasion, Tea Party Tablescapes, The Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Recipes, Valentine's Day Table Settings, Valentine's Day Tablescapes Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,



Valentine’s Day Table Setting: Candlelit and Romantic

February 16, 2012 by 51 Comments

Welcome to the 181st Tablescape Thursday! It was another gorgeous day here...is this really February?  Since the temps reached 67 degrees today, I headed for the porch for this Tablescape Thursday. I know Valentine's Day is behind us now, but I had to squeeze in one more Valentine's Day table setting before we say good-bye to that holiday for another year.  I had envisioned this tablescape with red … [Read more...]

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



Eye Candy for Valentine’s Day

February 14, 2012 by 85 Comments

Happy Valentine's Day!  Did you get a chance to visit the wonderful Before and Afters posted for yesterday's Met Monday?  I was once again blown away by all the wonderful talent and creativity in Blogland! I started to name today's post, "Hijacked" because this post started out with one topic and it kind of morphed into something else.  You'll see what I mean in a sec. If you've been reading BNOTP for … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY, DIY Photography, The Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Crafts, Valentine's Day Decor, Valentine's Day Holiday Home Tagged With: , , ,



Decorating for Valentine’s Day

February 13, 2012 by 71 Comments

Welcome to the 160th Metamorphosis Monday! Valentine's Day is tomorrow.  I love that holiday.  How can you not love a day that's all about chocolate, romance and ♥ LOVE! ♥ It makes me smile when I remember bringing Valentine's Day cards to school.   If I close my eyes, I can still see all the colorful construction-paper folders we made and decorated.  They were strung along the wall … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Bedroom (Guest Room), Before & After, Blue & White Design & Decor, My Nest, Tablescapes Holiday Tablescapes, Tablescapes Occasion, Tea Party Tablescapes, The Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Decor, Valentine's Day Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Table Settings, Valentine's Day Tablescapes Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , ,



Make Music-Covered Hearts for Valentine’s Day: A Tutorial

February 10, 2012 by 39 Comments

Yesterday for our Tablescape Thursday, I shared a Valentine's Day table setting with a sweet, romantic easy-to-make centerpiece.  I had been plotting thinking for some time about creating a willowy little "tree" with the River Birch branches I'm always picking up from my front yard. I decided to decorate my little birch tree with hearts so I checked several places online.  During my search I came … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY, DIY Crafts & Sewing, The Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Crafts, Valentine's Day Decor, Valentine's Day Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Table Settings, Valentine's Day Tablescapes Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,



Table Setting with Music & Mercury-Glass Heart Tree

February 9, 2012 by 107 Comments

Welcome to the 180th Tablescape Thursday! Valentine's Day is just a few days away.   Did you forward your Valentine's Day cards to the Valentine, Texas Post Master to have them postmarked with their famous stamp?  Such a cute idea!   We've been having spring-like weather for weeks here in Georgia.  Even the daffodils are in full bloom.  The porch was calling, begging me to come out and play.   … [Read more...]

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



A Good Year

September 8, 2011 by 49 Comments

Welcome to the 159th Tablescape Thursday! A Good Year, Starring Russell Crowe and Marion Cotillard Tablescape Thursday: A few months ago I had the opportunity to see the movie A Good Year starring Russell Crowe as Max Skinner and Marion Cotillard, as Fanny Chenal.  A Good Year is a British romantic comedy based on a book by Peter Mayle.  He also wrote, A Year in Provence .   A Good Year has been … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Movie House Tours, Movie Houses, Romantic Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday, Valentine's Day Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Movies Tagged With: , , , , , , ,



Green Card

September 4, 2011 by 48 Comments

Take a Tour of the Beautiful, Historic Apartment in the movie, Green Card While putting together a recent post listing a whole bunch of my fave decorating and design books, I came across my copy of The Conservatory Book by Peter Marston.  This book is filled with pictures of beautiful greenhouses. The book reminded me of another beautiful greenhouse, the one in one of my favorite movies, Green … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Gardening & Birding, In the Garden, Movie House Tours, Movie Houses, Nature, Valentine's Day Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Movies Tagged With: , , , , , , ,



Napkin Fold Tutorial: The Butterfly

August 26, 2011 by 11 Comments

  Recently, I created a table setting with a butterfly napkin fold. (You can view this tablescape in detail, HERE.)   I used this same napkin fold again for this table setting which can be viewed in full, HERE.   This fold is super easy to create.  I think it looks especially nice when created with a napkin that has a scalloped edge. Hope you enjoy this butterfly napkin fold … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Napkin Folding Tutorials, Valentine's Day Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Napkin Folds Tagged With: ,



Romantic Candlelight Table Setting

August 25, 2011 by 34 Comments

Welcome to the 157th Tablescape Thursday! You may feel like Bill Murray in the movie, Groundhog Day as you view the following tablescape.  In last week's Tablescape Thursday post, I mentioned I had created a tablescape on the porch and it somehow mysteriously moved itself right out on to the deck, turning into this romantic table setting. Since the original table on the porch was still set, I … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Romantic Tablescapes, Seasonal Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday, The Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Table Settings, Valentine's Day Tablescapes Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,



Romantic Table Setting for Two

August 18, 2011 by 66 Comments

Welcome to the 156th Tablescape Thursday! Tomorrow, August 18th, Between Naps on the Porch turns 3 years old.  The last three years have flown by so very quickly.  Thank you for visiting and being here every day.  I appreciate so much that you share your time with me! Let's have dinner on the deck tonight.  It feels so nice out. I'll pour the wine...you just sit and enjoy. So romantic, dining … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Romantic Tablescapes, Seasonal Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tables for Two, Tablescape Thursday, Valentine's Day Table Settings, Valentine's Day Tablescapes Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,



Father of the Bride

July 9, 2011 by 36 Comments

Tour the Home in the Movie, Father of the Bride Recently, we took a tour of some beautiful neighborhoods and homes in the south. This house, located not far from my home, was included in that tour. Each time I drive by it, I'm always reminded of a famous movie home we all know and love. Do you know the one I'm thinking about? Yep, it's this one! Recognize it? It's the house from the movie, Father of … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Movie House Tours, Movie Houses, Valentine's Day Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Movies Tagged With: , , , , , ,



Something’s Gotta Give

June 18, 2011 by 123 Comments

Recently, I took a little vacation to Savannah, Georgia. It was a wonderful trip and when I returned home that weekend, I couldn't wait to pull out one of my favorite "beach house" movies, Something's Gotta Give.  Do you remember this amazing living room from that movie house?   Come along and let's take a tour of the whole house...it's an amazing movie house! Somethings Gotta Give is … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Beach & Lake Homes, Movie House Tours, Movie Houses, Valentine's Day Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Movies 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: ,



Valentine’s Day Gift or Craft Centerpiece

February 4, 2011 by 48 Comments

The Valentine's Day table setting I posted for TT this week had a yummy centerpiece that is also great to make and give as a cute gift. This centerpiece was created in colors of red, pink and silver for Valentine's Day, but you can create the same centerpiece/gift with candy bars in pastel colors for Easter or Mother's Day or for a birthday gift. This also makes a great end-of-year gift for a favorite … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY, DIY Crafts & Sewing, The Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Crafts, Valentine's Day Holiday Home Tagged With: , , , , , ,



A Valentine’s Day Table Setting with a Sweet Centerpiece

February 2, 2011 by 74 Comments

Welcome to the 128th Tablescape Thursday! Today I'm sharing a Valentine's Day tablescape with a fun, tasty centerpiece. I've posted the tutorial showing how it's made Ice Cream Candy-Car Sundae.  This sweet treat makes a great Valentine's Day or birthday gift. You'll love how easy and inexpensive it is to make. Also, you'll find a tutorial for the napkin fold I used in this tablescape here: Pocket Napkin … [Read more...]

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



Surprise Your Sweetheart on Valentine’s Day

February 1, 2011 by 19 Comments

Pssst, over here. Shhh, I have to whisper, so your Valentine Sweetheart doesn't hear. Guess what! It's the neatest thing! If you put all your valentine cards in a big envelope and send them to the Postmaster in the tiny town of Valentine, Texas, she will stamp them all with a big RED stamp that says: VALENTINE, TEXAS! Imagine your Valentine's face when they see that special postmark...I just totally … [Read more...]

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



Valentine’s Day Breakfast

January 27, 2011 by 68 Comments

Welcome to the 127th Tablescape Thursday! A few months ago, I came across flavored chocolate "coffee spoons" at Marshalls. The flavors are: Hazelnut, Mocha, Mint, Irish Cream, French Vanilla and Amaretto. On a trip to Trader Joes I decided to try their gingerbread. Do these not sound like the perfect winter "comfort" foods? They also sound like the perfect ingredients for a Valentine's Day … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Bedroom (Master), Breakfast Tablescapes, My Nest, Tables for Two, Tablescape Thursday, Tablescapes Holiday Tablescapes, The Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Recipes, Valentine's Day Table Settings, Valentine's Day Tablescapes Tagged With: , , , ,



The Money Pit

January 15, 2011 by 39 Comments

What do you do when you've been snowed in for 4 days straight?  Watch your favorite movies!  One of my favorite movies that never fails to make me laugh is The Money Pit starring Tom Hanks and Shelley Long. Do you sometimes feel like something is always falling apart or needing a repair in your home? I promise you'll be kissing the floors of your Home, Sweet Home after a viewing of The Money Pit. … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Movie House Tours, Movie Houses, Valentine's Day Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Movies Tagged With: , , , , , ,



Napkin Folding Tutorial: The Flower Basket

October 20, 2010 by 12 Comments

As you continue enjoying all the wonderful tablescapes linked for Tablescape Thursday, I thought I'd share another fun napkin fold. This one is called, The Flower Basket. It really helps if you use a napkin that is as square as possible. None of mine were perfectly square...but this one was pretty close. This fold looks especially pretty with a lace edged napkin. Happy Folding! :) Your finished … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Napkin Folding Tutorials, Valentine's Day Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Napkin Folds Tagged With: ,



Romantic Table for Two on the Deck

May 20, 2010 by 71 Comments

Welcome the 91st Tablescape Thursday! She Walks in Beauty Like the Night by Lord Byron She walks in beauty, like the night   Of cloudless climes and starry skies; And all that's best of dark and bright Meet in her aspect and her eyes: Thus mellowed to that tender light Which heaven to gaudy day denies. One shade the more, one ray the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Gardening & Birding, In the Garden, Nature, Romantic Tablescapes, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tables for Two, Tablescape Thursday, Valentine's Day Table Settings, Valentine's Day Tablescapes Tagged With: , , , ,



Make Heart-Shaped Cakes for Valentine’s Day

February 14, 2010 by 35 Comments

I've received several comments and e-mails asking about the cake recipe I used to make the little heart shaped cakes featured in last week's Tablescape Thursday.  They were made with a cake recipe given to me by my mother-in-law many years ago. It's a basic cake recipe called a 1234 Cake, and it's the same recipe I use when I make a coconut cake each year at Christmastime.  You'll find a printable version … [Read more...]

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



Romantic Valentine’s Day Tablescape

February 4, 2010 by 75 Comments

Welcome to the 76th Tablescape Thursday! Pssst, come over here a sec. Shhh, have to whisper, so your Valentine Sweetheart doesn't hear. Guess what I just found out?! It's the neatest thing! If you put all your Valentines in a big envelope and send them to the Postmaster in the tiny town of Valentine, Texas, she will stamp them all with a big RED stamp that says: VALENTINE, TEXAS! Imagine your Valentine's … [Read more...]

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



Valentine’s Day Tablescape: Be Mine

January 28, 2010 by 100 Comments

Welcome to the 75th Tablescape Thursday! Have you ever wondered about the origin of those little candy hearts with the cute and sometimes corny messages? Last year, I had some fun putting together a tablescape using them in some creative ways. Since Valentine's Day is rapidly approaching, I thought I'd share that tablescape again, along with some interesting facts about this well-loved candy. This … [Read more...]

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



Flower Cubes For a Summer Party

May 3, 2009 by 48 Comments

Summer is waning and fall is just around the corner. I can feel it the air when I'm out on the porch during these late summer evenings. Before long, at least here in the south, gardeners will be pouring into the nurseries in search of pansies for their annual beds. Pansies enjoy the cooler weather and if planted in early fall, they will put down good roots that will carry them through the colder temps we … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Easter Holiday Home, Easter Recipes, Easter Table Settings, Gardening & Birding, In the Garden, Nature, Recipes, Valentine's Day Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Recipes, Valentine's Day Table Settings Tagged With: ,



Valentine’s Day Table Setting with Yummy Heart Cakes

February 5, 2009 by 122 Comments

Welcome to the 24th Tablescape Thursday! Ok, I know it's really the first Tablescape Thursday...but I didn't want to start the count over just because our tablescaping day moved two days down the week. I'll be sharing a Valentine's Tablescape today and I'd love to know where you think it looks best...the breakfast room or the dining room.  I put together a little Valentine's table to share today. I … [Read more...]

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



A Plate for All Seasons

November 29, 2008 by 59 Comments

In my kitchen, I have a little plate holder that for years held a red and white "rooster" plate. A while back I decided to make it more than just a plate holder with a decorative plate...now it's a fun way to mark the changing of the seasons, as well. So when February rolls around, it's time to think about cupid... And as it get closer to Easter... Once Easter has past, it's time to … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Decor, Christmas Holiday Home, Easter Decorating, Easter Holiday Home, Kitchen & Breakfast Area, My Nest, Seasonal Decor, Thanksgiving Decor, Thanksgiving Holiday Home, The Holiday Home, Valentine's Day Decor, Valentine's Day Holiday Home Tagged With: , ,