This past summer while visiting family in Ohio, I took a day trip over to Cleveland to visit the home featured in the iconic Christmas move, A Christmas Story. I shared pictures of the exterior and interior over a series of posts that can all be found linked here: A Christmas Story Movie House Tour, Parts I-IV See the triple window there, just above the porch? When you're standing in … [Read more...]
Search Results for: a christmas story
Shopping The “A Christmas Story” Movie House Gift Store
November 11, 2014 by 21 Comments
A few months ago I was visiting family in Ohio. While there, I took a little day trip over to a Cleveland to tour a place I've always wanted to see in person. Afterwards, I shared this funny picture on the blog and asked if you could guess where it was taken. I can't get anything by you guys! Y'all had no trouble figuring out I was reenacting a scene from the well-loved Christmas movie, A … [Read more...]
A Christmas Story Movie House, Part IV: The Upstairs
August 5, 2014 by 31 Comments
We're headed upstairs today, touring all the rooms upstairs in the home featured in the movie, A Christmas Story, including Ralphie and Randy's bedroom and the bathroom where one of the funniest scenes in the movie took place. During my visit to Cleveland, Ohio to tour the home, I also visited the A Christmas Story Museum, as well as the gift shop across the street. The pictures I took inside those two … [Read more...]
A Christmas Story House, Part III: The Living Room
August 4, 2014 by 68 Comments
Welcome to the 288th Metamorphosis Monday! Bob Clark, the Director and a co-writer of the movie, A Christmas Story, had trouble finding funding for this now iconic Christmas movie when he first set out to make it. He had an extensive history of making horror films so none of the production companies felt comfortable funding him in the making of a comedy/family oriented movie. His next movie was Porky's … [Read more...]
Inside The Kitchen of “A Christmas Story” Movie House
July 24, 2014 by 60 Comments
Welcome to the 306th Tablescape Thursday! A visit to the 19th-century Victorian home used in all the exterior scenes of the movie, A Christmas Story, is an interactive one. As we stepped inside the front door for the tour, our guide immediately invited us to have a seat in the living room. Whaaat? That's not something you normally get to do while touring a home! I knew right then this wasn't going to be … [Read more...]
Tour A Christmas Story Movie House: The House & Neighborhood
July 23, 2014 by 31 Comments
Recently I took a trip to Ohio to visit family and while there I decided to do something I've been wanting to do for ages. I hopped in the car one morning and struck out for Cleveland to tour the home featured in the movie, A Christmas Story. This wonderful old Victorian home located at 3159 W. 11th Street in Cleveland Ohio, was used for all the exterior shots of the … [Read more...]
A Christmas Story
December 10, 2010 by 56 Comments
An Iconic Christmas Movie: Update: The following tour is a tour of the movie with pictures taken from the movie itself. In July 2014 I had the opportunity to travel to Cleveland, Ohio where I toured the actual home featured in the movie. I created four posts sharing this Victorian home in detail, including the exterior, the neighborhood and the interior of the home which has been fully restored back to its … [Read more...]
Special Christmas Dinner with Spode Christmas Tree & the Sweetest Birdie Linens
December 24, 2020 by 30 Comments
Welcome to the 639th Tablescape Thursday, a blog party sharing beautiful table settings for all occasions! Merry Christmas Eve and Happy Holidays! I have another wonderful table setting to share with you from a BNOTP reader. I love it when you share your beautiful table settings, you give me so much inspiration with the tables you create for those you love! Recently, Maureen and I were chatting about … [Read more...]
Decorate for Christmas with Whimsical Christmas Pillows
December 5, 2020 by 20 Comments
Do you love decorating with pillows? I really love it when a pretty decor item is also functional and pillows definitely fall into that category. In addition to lamps, cozy throws, art, and books, I love, love, love using lots of pillows in all the rooms of my home. They can add so much whimsy, not to mention a ton of cozy during the fall and winter months. I guess in a way, they are like the scarf or … [Read more...]
Christmas Tree Shopping Tips, Hanging Wreaths on Windows & A New Addition to the Bedroom
November 14, 2020 by 43 Comments
A few years back, the Christmas tree I had been using for many years lost a big section of lights. I spent hours and hours over several days trying everything to get the lights working, replacing fuses, using a little handheld device to try and detect which light or lights were not working, all to no avail. Since the tree was pretty old, I guess the lighting has just deteriorated over the years. Realizing I … [Read more...]
Delight the Little Ones with a Christmas Bedroom Makeover
December 23, 2019 by 64 Comments
Welcome to the 569th Metamorphosis Monday! Merry Christmas and the most happiest of holidays to you! Today I'm sharing a fun, whimsical makeover I semi-completed for my grandsons' bedroom recently. I say semi-completed because the artwork I ordered to go above their beds wasn't the quality I expected and had to be returned. I've also ordered a different lamp and will share how it looks once it … [Read more...]
Some Cozy Winter Updates That Would Also Make Great Gifts for Christmas
November 3, 2019 by 49 Comments
Welcome to the 562nd Metamorphosis Monday! I've been visiting with my grandchildren for the last two weeks but will be heading back home soon. On this trip, I brought up the chest-of-drawers from son's old bedroom visible below the top bunk in this old photo. The chest ended up in one of the dormer windows of my grandsons' bedroom, replacing the train table that had been there. I would … [Read more...]
Beautiful Table Setting with Vintage Hutschenreuther China & A Love Story
April 4, 2019 by 29 Comments
Welcome to the 550th Tablescape Thursday! Warren and Kathie love to entertain. Recently Warren shared photos of a beautiful spring table he put together for friends. Warren said, "I set the table for our friends who are sharing 75th birthdays. Most of the glassware and china are family heirlooms made by Hutschenreuther, Huntington Glass, Fostoria Glass and Heisey Glass." "I found the … [Read more...]
16 Ideas for Celebrating Christmas and the Holiday season
December 10, 2018 by 15 Comments
Welcome to the 515th Metamorphosis Monday! How was your weekend? Did you attend any holiday home tours? We had one here but it was just too rainy and cold, so I stayed in and wrapped presents. I got a lot done, but still have so many more to wrap. It's really been an enjoyable task since I've been watching documentaries on the life of Jane Austen on my iPad while wrapping. I should be watching Christmas … [Read more...]
‘Twas The Night Before Christmas, A Visit from St. Nicholas
December 12, 2016 by 72 Comments
Welcome to the 411th Metamorphosis Monday! Light Repair Tip, In Case It's Helpful You know how you hear about those people who are always causing electrical things to break? I'm starting to think I'm one of them. Seriously! Last year, the tree I normally use here in the living room, had an entire string of lights go out. I spent many, many hours trying to fix it, including using one of the light … [Read more...]
The Marietta Pilgrimage Christmas Home Tour, 2016
December 5, 2016 by 31 Comments
Welcome to the 410th Metamorphosis Monday! Was hoping to share my front porch decorated for Christmas, but we've been getting some much-needed rain the last few days, so couldn't snap any photos. So for this Met Monday, we'll go on a Christmas Home Tour in Marietta, Georgia to see how others are decorating and transforming their homes for the holidays. This home reminded me a lot of the cottages you … [Read more...]
Found! Adorable Red Christmas Truck & Station Wagon with Tree & Wreath
December 3, 2016 by 50 Comments
What a crazy day yesterday, can you believe that on December 2nd, 23 days before Christmas, there's no garland to be found in any of the Home Depots or Lowe's garden centers near my home! It's all sold out except for a couple of strands that were all withered looking and dry. After visiting three stores without any luck (one Lowe's and two Home Depots) I decided to try Pike Nursery, the same place I … [Read more...]
Hitting the Labor Day Sales & Starting My Christmas Shopping Now
September 3, 2016 by 22 Comments
With all the Labor Day Sales going on, I thought I'd share what caught my eye and what I've been buying this weekend. I love these shorts with the scalloped edge. Normally when I find them, they are so expensive, but these are not. They are marked down from $48 to $36 and an additional 20% off that with the code FINALSALE. You'll find them available here: Shorts with Scalloped Edge I … [Read more...]
The Marietta Pilgrimage Christmas Home Tour
January 4, 2016 by 25 Comments
Welcome to the 362nd Metamorphosis Monday! Happy New Year! How were your holidays? I hope you were able to spend them with those you love most. I was away for a while, visiting my son, dil and grandson. It was wonderful seeing them! Unfortunately, the trip back home was an adventure, and not in a good way. I'll share that story very soon, complete with pictures, because there are lots of lessons to be … [Read more...]
20 Ways To Make Your Christmas Merry & Bright
November 9, 2015 by 55 Comments
Welcome to the 354th Metamorphosis Monday! Christmas is just 45 days away and I've noticed lots of folks are Pinning and Instagramming Christmas ideas for inspiration. At the top of BNOTP, you'll find a category called, Holiday Home. Under Holiday Home, you'll find a subcategory called, Christmas. Under Christmas you'll find lots of decorating ideas, house tours, crafts, movies, recipes, tablescapes … [Read more...]
A Summer House On A Christmas Home Tour
December 8, 2014 by 51 Comments
Welcome to the 306th Metamorphosis Monday! How was your weekend? Go on any Christmas home tours? Did you do a little Christmas decorating? I finished decorating the front porch and I'm looking forward to sharing that soon. This weekend I attended the Marietta Pilgrimage and though pictures weren't allowed inside the homes, I have a few to share of some of the outside spaces that were transformed for … [Read more...]
In The BNOTP Library: Southern Christmas
December 5, 2014 by 10 Comments
Though the book I'm sharing today is filled with beautiful pictures and wonderful scenes of Christmas, it's also jam-packed with information and the history of why we decorate the way we do, all the way from Maryland down to the most southern states. If you love an old fashioned Christmas filled with tradition, you'll love this book. In the BNOTP Library: Emyl Jenkins' Southern … [Read more...]
The Christmas Movie-House Tacky Light Tour
November 19, 2013 by 34 Comments
I've noticed a lot of folks are already decorating outside for Christmas this year. I'm going to hang my outdoor window wreaths in the next few days. I normally wait and do it the day after Thanksgiving but I always feel so rushed to get it done when I wait until then. Thanksgiving comes really late this year so I"ve decided to go ahead and get them up this week. I really love this time of year, so why not … [Read more...]
Two Story Porches: Build a Porch Way Up High
May 31, 2013 by 29 Comments
My love for a two-story porch started the day I was on a home tour in Grant Park (Atlanta) and I walked out onto the top porch of this home. I know the trees kind of look like they are obstructing the view but it didn't feel or look that way on the porch. Instead, it felt as if we were in this magical place, high above the world. We could see all the way down the street both ways, as well as … [Read more...]
Tour a Beautiful Victorian Home Decorated for Christmas, Part II
December 24, 2012 by 29 Comments
Welcome to the 205th Metamorphosis Monday! Happy Holidays! All this week we'll be continuing our tour inside this beautiful Victorian home belonging to Governor Roy and Marie Barnes. If you missed any of the previous posts, I'll link to them at the end of this post. This beautiful home has been transformed for the holidays. Marie starts the metamorphosis in August so everything is ready in time for … [Read more...]
A Christmas Dinner Party
December 20, 2012 by 72 Comments
Welcome to the 224th Tablescape Thursday! Three or four weeks ago I posted this tablescape below for a Tablescape Thursday. Sunday I had a little dinner party and at first I set the table with my Lenox, Winter Greetings pattern. At the last minute, I decided the table was feeling a bit more formal than I wanted for this gathering. I wanted our party to feel more cozy and casual. So I decided to … [Read more...]
A Christmas Tablescape on the Porch
December 6, 2012 by 76 Comments
Welcome to the 222nd Tablescape Thursday! Here we are, on the porch in December! This is the very first tablescape I've ever created on the porch during the month of December. With temps in the 70's, I couldn't resist. Seems a little strange having a bottle tree in view while gazing at a Christmas table setting. This regal-looking guy was the inspiration for this weeks tablescape. I … [Read more...]
Christmas Decor and Holiday Parties
November 23, 2012 by 38 Comments
How was your Thanksgiving? Are you in a turkey coma? Are you heading out to brave the Black Friday crowds? If you get a steal today, leave me a comment and tell me what it was? I don't usually head out on BF. If I do it's usually late in the day when the real frenzy is over and the early birds are back home in bed recovering! Lots of folks have already started decorating for Christmas big time. If … [Read more...]
Christmas Dollhouse
November 9, 2011 by 40 Comments
Hello dear friends! How's your day going so far? I was hard at work yesterday and I'm one tired puppy this evening as I write this. The leaves are just beginning to fall off the trees in the backyard and every afternoon for an hour or so the sun has been streaming in so brightly, I can't really view the monitor or work at my computer. During the spring and summer months, it's not a problem. So, I … [Read more...]
Christmas Tree Illuminated with Real Candles
December 20, 2010 by 64 Comments
Welcome to the 100th Metamorphosis Monday! Wow! Can you believe it's the 100th Metamorphosis Monday?! Thanks so much for coming along on this fun journey with me week after week. Can't wait to see what the next 100 Met Mondays will bring. Metamorphosis Monday: Christmas in Switzerland Each year Cornelia and her family head out into the beautiful forest of Switzerland along with a forester. They … [Read more...]
German Christmas Pyramids
December 14, 2010 by 14 Comments
German Christmas Pyramids: Have you ever seen those tall, multi-tiered Christmas pieces with the little figures on each level? Often there are candles surrounding them and and they spin around and around. I've seen them over the years and knew they were usually made in Germany...but that was about the extent of what I knew. It turns out they are actually called German Christmas Pyramids. Cornelia who … [Read more...]
Christmas Table Setting with Topiary Centerpiece
December 9, 2010 by 78 Comments
Welcome to the 120th Tablescape Thursday! Tonight I am sharing another Christmas tablescape. I played around with two centerpieces, one with a Baldwin Brass Lantern and Candlesticks and another with fresh Rosemary topiaries and the BB lantern. Both centerpieces have Russian Nesting Dolls that I've collected over the years. Let me know which centerpiece you liked best...I couldn't … [Read more...]
Coconut Cake Recipe for Thanksgiving and Christmas
December 30, 2009 by 67 Comments
I'm feeling a bit nostalgic these days. Holidays have a way of doing that to us, don't they? As I was looking back through some of my older posts, I came across one written around this time last year and couldn't resist sharing it with you guys again. It's a post about a family tradition that I hope you'll enjoy. But first, I have to share something that had me laughing so hard on Christmas Day, I was … [Read more...]
Silver-Tiered Centerpiece for Christmas
November 5, 2009 by 267 Comments
Welcome to the 63rd Tablescape Thursday! A few months ago, I was shopping in one of my favorite antique/thrift stores, and I came across a pretty multi-tiered, silver server. It was a bit more than I really wanted to spend at $50 and it seemed a bit on the high side for the Flea...but it grabbed hold of me and refused to let me leave without it. I'd been planning on putting together a formal tablescape … [Read more...]
Williamsburg Apple Tree Centerpiece for Your Christmas Table
December 30, 2008 by 62 Comments
Welcome to the 19th Tablescape Tuesday! When I posted a Christmas tablescape a few weeks ago, I received several questions about how I made the fruit tree centerpiece. Even though Christmas is over, I thought it might be helpful to see how it's made, just in case you would like to make one next year. Honestly, I think this would be beautiful for any occasion, not just Christmas. So for this Tablescape … [Read more...]
Christmas Table Setting, Cottage Style
December 23, 2008 by 70 Comments
Welcome to the 18th Tablescape Tuesday! Christmas is only two days away...hard to believe! This is an exciting Tablescape Tuesday for me because two very special ladies, who are also dear friends of mine, have graciously agreed to let me post some of their wonderful holiday tablescapes. You most likely know them from their beautiful postings on Rate My Space...they are Carol, Cedwards55 and Linda, Mom of … [Read more...]
A Love Story…City Girl Meets Country Boy…
October 1, 2008 by 37 Comments
Earlier in the summer, pics of the most amazing home appeared on RMS. I knew right away that the person(s) who lived there was special because this particular home was unique, exuded warmth and was positively enchanting. This wonderfully cozy home turned out to be the home of Laura (Tomarie on RMS) and her real, live cowboy husband, Tom. Well, being the incurable romantic that I am, I asked Laura if she … [Read more...]
3 Special Table Settings Featuring Beautiful Vintage Tablecloths!
May 4, 2023 by 8 Comments
Welcome to the 762nd Tablescape Thursday! Oh my gosh, it's been a wild week around here! I had planned to complete the work on the unfinished part of my basement at a gradual pace over the next couple of months, but I got a bee in my bonnet and decided to go full-steam ahead. I'm eager to get my workbench and freezer moved back into the room as soon as possible, so that means going ahead and scheduling to … [Read more...]
It Arrived Early and I Love How It Turned Out!
January 3, 2022 by 66 Comments
Welcome to the 675th Metamorphosis Monday! Happy 2022! I hope your year is off to a great start! Before I share a fun Before and After for this week's Metamorphosis Monday, I want to say Thank-you so much for all the great suggestions and ideas you left on my recent post where I mentioned my plans to change the wall color in my bedroom. You are a wealth of information and I appreciate each and every … [Read more...]
Pearl Earrings for Sensitive Ears & A Jewelry Keeper for Travel
February 16, 2018 by 58 Comments
I am earring challenged! Over the last few years I've rarely worn earrings, despite really loving them. The problem has been two-fold: 1. Over the years my ears have become super sensitive to earrings that aren't 14K gold and 2. I am forever losing earrings, usually just one. Maybe I should just start wearing all my orphaned earrings together...start a new trend! lol I've been hoping to add a pair of … [Read more...]
25 Ideas & Tips for Decorating & Preparing for the Holidays
November 14, 2017 by 25 Comments
Today I've pulled together some of my favorite ideas for decorating and entertaining for the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday season. Hope you find this helpful as you decorate, craft, cook and prepare for your festive holiday parties and gatherings. Click on the BLUE title below to access that post for more details. Follow Between Naps On The Porch on Instagram for more of my holiday posts: BNOTP … [Read more...]
Australia
July 11, 2015 by 38 Comments
A while back I received an e-mail from Ursula. She wrote: Greetings Susan, I’ve enjoyed your blog for years! Would you consider doing a movie house tour of the Queenslander Nicole Kidman inherits in the film, Australia? I would love to see more detail and learn more about it. Thank you. Kindest regards. Ursula, thanks so much for the suggestion because both the movie and the Queenslander home, Faraway … [Read more...]
Home Alone
November 27, 2010 by 107 Comments
Tour the Home in the Movie, Home Alone Have you ever thought about the psychology that goes into making a movie...the little things that influence us without us even knowing it? Of course, there's the brief product placement that flashes by, but I'm thinking more about the movie sets and how they are designed and decorated to make us think or feel a particular way while watching the movie. I grew up in … [Read more...]
Humble Beginnings in Married Student Housing: Our First Home
May 4, 2009 by 118 Comments
Welcome to the 16th Metamorphosis Monday! For this Metamorphosis Monday, I'm sharing "Before" pics that are really, really old. These are the "before-est" pics I will EVER be able to show you for a Met Monday! It was 1978, I was 21 years old, my husband, 23, and we were newlyweds having just married a few weeks before. We were living in "married student housing" on the campus where we were attending … [Read more...]
My September Favorites for Met Monday, Plus 3 Tempting Items Currently On My Wish List
October 7, 2024 by 23 Comments
Welcome to the 819th Metamorphosis Monday! Whenever I'm at the Dollhouse, there are always a lot of Before and Afters to share. If things go as planned this week, I'll soon be sharing how the dining set I ordered looks in the dining room. One update I made recently for the Dollhouse dining room was adding silk-wrapped bulbs to the dining room chandelier. Here's how those style bulbs look in the dining room … [Read more...]
Dollhouse Dining Room Updates & Mail Served On A Silver Platter ;)
July 25, 2024 by 25 Comments
Welcome to the 826th Tablescape Thursday! I finally figured out why everything is so hectic when I'm here at the Dollhouse. It usually goes like this: Today, I had two appointments scheduled. Just two. I had a shutter company representative stopping by at 8:30 to take an order for some plantation shutters, and later this afternoon I have a meeting/call with a developer to look into a new blog design. That … [Read more...]
4th of July Poolside Celebration In The Cool Shade Of A Fabulous Backyard Pavillion
June 20, 2024 by 13 Comments
Welcome to the 821st Tablescape Thursday! Imagine having a wonderful pavilion for dining poolside during the summer months, then imagine decorating it for the 4th of July! Elena has set a fabulous patriotic table setting for the 4th, and we are invited! Elena shared a funny story. She said, "When our kids were little, we would have a huge Fourth of July party every summer. Bands would play and I made … [Read more...]
So Many February Favorites!
March 9, 2024 by 5 Comments
Happy weekend! What are you up to this weekend? It's been raining non-stop here for a few days, but I think it may finally slow down a bit today. I hope so, I never thought I was a person to be affected by weather, but I think this non-stop rain is starting to get to me. I need some sunshine! I had way too many favorites during the month of February to share them all, so I have tried to narrow it down to … [Read more...]
All My Favorites For Spring and Summer
February 17, 2024 by 18 Comments
Happy Weekend! My head is completely in spring/summer mode now. With the daylight staying with us a little bit longer each day and my daffodils all poking their little heads up out of the ground, I know that spring is almost here and I can't wait! With spring just around the corner, I thought this would be a great time to share some of my favorites that I love and use on repeat during the … [Read more...]
Would You Have The Nerve To Do This? Yikes!
January 17, 2024 by 14 Comments
Mr. Gingerbread Man and his many stories live on! Hahaha! During November and December, whenever I shared about this adorable Kate Spade Gingerbread House bag, the emails, pictures, stories, and comments I received from BNOTP readers, friends, and my daughter-in-law were the best! This fun bag stole the show and was always the topic of conversation everywhere it traveled. I could write a blog post doing … [Read more...]
Beautiful, Elegant Table, Hand-Crafted Runner & Star-Covered Champagne Coupes
December 7, 2023 by 22 Comments
Welcome to the 793th Tablescape Thursday! I have a beautiful table to share this week, a special table that is set with elegant, vintage/antique china. Tish, a lovely BNOTP reader, wrote, "We found a tea service years ago and only in the past year or so have found other pieces. It was produced in occupied Japan, so 70-ish years old." Tish described her favorite china as "Noritake pattern … [Read more...]
3 Beautiful Tables for Thanksgiving With Handmade And Cherished Family Heirlooms
November 23, 2023 by 6 Comments
Welcome to the 791st Tablescape Thursday! Happy Thanksgiving to you and your loved ones! I have two beautiful tables to share with you on this wonderful Thanksgiving Day. Sheri set this special table for her family's Thanksgiving. A family member celebrated their birthday a little before Thanksgiving and the table was also used for that special occasion. Sheri said, "Mike made the cedar box … [Read more...]
Answering Questions About My Puzzle Board & Sharing Some Favorite Puzzles for Fall
October 7, 2023 by 8 Comments
Over the past few days, I've had several comments and a few emails asking about the puzzle board I love working my puzzles on and about my favorite puzzles. I have to admit, I'm definitely a PPP, aka, Picky Puzzle Person. I have to be really invested in the scene and the story of a puzzle to have the desire to work it, and I will absolutely stop working a puzzle and put it back in the box to be donated if I … [Read more...]
Attractive, Waterproof, Patio-Deck Storage For Outdoor Cushions, Toys, Gardening & Grilling Tools
July 24, 2023 by 15 Comments
Welcome to the 756th Metamorphosis Monday! Hope you had a fabulous weekend! Well, it has been a process spanning several years, but I have finally managed to move all the toys I saved from my son's childhood--to my son's home in Ohio for his children to enjoy. Of course, I didn't save every toy from his childhood, but I did try to save the best ones that I felt were perennial and would never be outdated. … [Read more...]
3 Special Father’s Day Gift Ideas
May 27, 2023 by 4 Comments
I just ordered a gift for my son, but not sure when I'll give it to him. He has a birthday coming up, but the special coffee maker I gave him recently was really an early B'day present. My friend, Susan, shared a wonderful tote this morning that she had just purchased. While shopping the website I came across another tote (on sale for 10% off) that I thought would be great for the bi-annual … [Read more...]
A Sassy GPS, Renaissance Fun and Some Adorable Shopping Finds
November 2, 2022 by 34 Comments
I've just returned from spending time with family in Ohio. It was a fun visit with football games, great food, Halloween shenanigans, and a visit to the Renaissance festival. It has been many years since I visited a Renaissance festival--we used to go almost every year when my son was growing up. After spending a fun day going through mazes, eating barbeque, and watching full-armored combat that went from … [Read more...]
24 Charger Plate Designs, Including Several DIY-Low Cost Options
October 20, 2022 by 34 Comments
Welcome to the 734th Tablescape Thursday! Back on June 1, 2017, I shared my entire charger plate collection in one post. Since then, I've added 7 new charger designs to my collection and donated two sets. The two sets I decided to no longer keep are the large corn platter (top right corner) and the watermelon platter at the bottom right corner. The reason I decided to part with those is … [Read more...]
Dramatic Garage Makeover with New Lighting, Fresh Paint and New Flooring!
August 8, 2022 by 109 Comments
Welcome to the 706th Metamorphosis Monday! There are so many things I would love to share in this post but if I share everything that's happened through this garage renovation, this post would be a million miles long--and ain't nobody got time for that! Today we'll just enjoy the transformation which is pretty darn dramatic! A little back story: Does something ever needle at you and then one day you … [Read more...]
My Catan Obsession: The Most Fun I’ve Ever Had Playing a Game!
April 8, 2022 by 20 Comments
Do you enjoy playing board games? I've never been that interested in them, especially if they drag out for a long time. Also, with so many board games, it often feels like the same old game every time you play it. Well, my thoughts about board games completely changed on my last visit to see family in Ohio! My son introduced me to the game, Catan, and I am officially hooked! During my visit, my son told … [Read more...]
The Most Adorable Little Free Library, It Even Has a Fairy Door!
March 4, 2022 by 22 Comments
Many years ago I was having my mostly-brick home painted and I was trying to choose a paint color for the eve sections, dormers, and the back of my home, all of which are not brick. One day while out running errands, I spotted a house that's about a mile from my home that was the perfect shade of yellow. I got brave, knocked on the door, and asked if they would mind sharing the color. They were super nice … [Read more...]
You’ve Heard of Cozy Mysteries–How About Cozy Puzzles?! They Are The Best!
January 19, 2022 by 19 Comments
We are deep into the heart of winter now--it's bloomin' cold outside! Though I sorta hate to admit this, I have kinda come to enjoy winter the last few years. I think deep down I'm a bit of an introvert who is pretty happy staying snuggled up inside reading, puzzling, and working on whatever project I have going at the time. I truly love spending time with friends but I also need my alone time to recharge. … [Read more...]
Awesome Sales, Hostess Gift Ideas & Gifts for Your Special Loved Ones
November 10, 2021 by 12 Comments
I love this time of year! I can feel the excitement of the upcoming holidays in the air, especially when I visit some of my favorite places to shop this time of year. I have a lot of different things I want to share today, so we'll be jumping around a bit in today's post. I think that's the way my brain works anyway. lol A while back I set a fun, mystery-themed table for Tablescape … [Read more...]
Advent Calendars for the Tea, Coffee, Chocolate & Wine Lover
October 17, 2021 by 6 Comments
A couple of days ago I shared some of my favorite Advent Calendars that have just come out for the holiday season. Most of the ones I shared in that previous post were beauty-themed, although there were a few surprises like this over-the-top beautiful Wedgwood Advent Calendar. If you missed that previous post, you'll find it here: They are Here! The Most Beautiful Advent Calendars of the … [Read more...]
Finally Sharing All Those Photos, Ideas and Tips That I’ve Been Saving
October 11, 2021 by 44 Comments
Welcome to the 663rd Metamorphosis Monday! Throughout the year, I'm always taking photos of things that I want to share with you that I think you'll enjoy. I've been going through photos this morning, and I thought it would be fun to share an assortment of random pictures and ideas for this week's Met Monday, especially since one of two of these are Before/After ideas. Hope you enjoy! During one of my … [Read more...]
A Fashion Book Collection & Prada Marfa, A “Shop” in the Middle of the Desert
September 27, 2021 by 36 Comments
Welcome to the 661st Metamorphosis Monday! It's always dangerous when I start a new project. Usually, I start out thinking that it's going to be a gradual process, something I'll be working on for a while. Then before I know it, I want to see it completed. Right now! Once I get a vision in my head, I can't seem to put the brakes on or slow down. Anyone else have that problem when starting a … [Read more...]
What’s on My Bedside Table?
July 7, 2021 by 47 Comments
A popular themed video on YouTube among handbag lovers/collectors is a "What's in my handbag" video. Apparently, women are often curious about what other women carry around in their bags during the day. A few nights ago as I crawled into bed, I thought, "I wonder what most people keep on their bedside table?" So today I thought I'd share with you the things I normally keep … [Read more...]
25+ Gift Ideas for Mother’s Day–Dad Would Probably Like Some of These, Too!
April 25, 2021 by 8 Comments
Wow! Thanks so much for all the great book suggestions you left in the comments of my last post! I'm really looking forward to checking out all the books and authors you recommended! Sooo many great recommendations! Also, thanks so much for trying to help me figure out the name of the book I read back in high school that I would love to find again. There was one particular book that was suggested that I … [Read more...]
A Beautiful Peacock Inspired Spring Table Setting
April 22, 2021 by 24 Comments
Welcome to the 656th Tablescape Thursday, a blog party sharing beautiful table settings for all occasions! Have you ever fallen in love with a beautiful china or dishware pattern, but then had a difficult time using it in a table setting? Then one day it happens--all the elements just click and come together perfectly! That happened to Warren when he came across this beautiful peacock-designed … [Read more...]
The Weirdest Thing, A “Shocking” Experience & How I Finally Solved It
February 6, 2021 by 55 Comments
So I've had the weirdest thing going on the past few months. At first, I thought it was a fluke but when it wouldn't stop I had to seek out a solution. I thought it was worth sharing because 1. It strikes me as kinda funny now looking back and 2. In case you've experienced this, maybe this weird little tale and how I solved it will help somehow. Update: I'm getting a lot comments asking if it's an … [Read more...]
So Whatever Happened to Those Peeling, Bubbling Columns…
December 28, 2020 by 25 Comments
Welcome to the 622nd Metamorphosis Monday, a blog party sharing fabulous Before and Afters! Last October, I shared some photos of my front porch columns and the developing issue I've had with them over the past year. It has been quite a few years since the porch was last painted. Trying to remember--I think I may have had it painted once since it was added on in 2008, but maybe it was just pressure … [Read more...]
It’s Been a Whirlwind Month: Lots of Cleaning, Painting and the Doors Arrived!
October 19, 2020 by 50 Comments
Welcome to the 612th Metamorphosis Monday, a blog party sharing fabulous Before and Afters! If you've been reading BNOTP for a while, you probably know I spent much of summer and the start of the school year helping with my grandchildren in Ohio. School is still just 3 hours a day there so it definitely makes it challenging for working Moms and Dads. Once I returned back home, it was full steam ahead! I … [Read more...]
Finally, They are Back in Stock, I Just Ordered Three New Ones Today
October 3, 2020 by 25 Comments
I've been meaning to create this post for months but I couldn't because all the puzzles in the whole world were sold out the minute it appeared we were all going to be staying home a lot. Okay, that's a slight exaggeration, but barely. Honestly, 500, 750, and 1000 piece puzzles (my faves) were as scarce as toilet paper for months and months! I guess a lot of folks love puzzles as much as I do! I was … [Read more...]
June Favorites & A Miracle Cleaner That Saved My White Cabinet from Ruin
July 17, 2020 by 32 Comments
We're already halfway through July and I just realized I never shared my favorites from the month of June. These Lilly Pulitzer inspired masks are at the top of that list. When I'm out and about these days, it's mostly just for a stop by the grocery store or the bird store for more birdseed. Every single time I wear one of these, someone compliments them. I had to stop by my Endocrinologist's office … [Read more...]
Hunting for Fossils: An Adventure Hike
June 30, 2020 by 24 Comments
Whenever I visit my son, daughter-in-love and grandsons in Ohio, we always go on hikes. When my son was growing up, we used to go on hikes as a family, but not near as much as my son, dil and grandsons do now. They go almost every weekend unless it's raining or snowing. I love that! It's such a great way to get in some good exercise while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. The area my son lives in … [Read more...]
A Dining Room Update That’s Been a Long Time Coming
March 2, 2020 by 142 Comments
Welcome to 579th Metamorphosis Monday! Many years ago, long before I began blogging, I had the walls in my dining room papered in a pretty, yellow and blue (with touches of raspberry red) wallpaper. These pictures, taken just before a little dinner party with friends, do not do the wallpaper justice. The paper was a beautiful, elegant pattern and I loved it for many years. Back then, I … [Read more...]
January Favorites & My Absolute Favorite Cozy, Warm Shoes for Indoors
February 19, 2020 by 18 Comments
Definitely one of my most favorite purchases during the month of January was a new pair of Ugg boots. I love wearing Uggs inside, especially when I'm working at my desk because they keep my feet sooo warm. And if your feet are warm, that's half the battle to staying warm all over, at least it is for me. I had a pair of pink Uggs I purchased a year or so ago, but shortly after I purchased them, they began … [Read more...]
What I Brought Back From Egypt and Other Random Bits of Fun
February 4, 2020 by 39 Comments
I'm always saving photos of neat things to share with you, but sometimes I never get around to including them in a post. Sometimes it's just a single photo or a little idea, so not quite enough to create a whole post about. Today, I've pulled a bunch of those little moments/ideas together. We'll be jumping all over the place in this post so there should be something fun or interesting in here for … [Read more...]
A Cozy, Candlelit Thanksgiving Table Setting
November 28, 2019 by 11 Comments
Welcome to the 584th Tablescape Thursday! Happy Thanksgiving to you! I'm so excited because I have a beautiful Thanksgiving table to share today, a table created by my friend, Teresa, for her Thanksgiving feast with family this year. You may recognize Teresa from the fun, crazy adventures we had together while traveling through Egypt. Teresa was there when I was almost pickpocketed while shopping in … [Read more...]
Super Heros in My Refrigerator
November 25, 2019 by 15 Comments
Welcome to the 565th Metamorphosis Monday! I spent the entire weekend cooking, decorating and cleaning, mostly cleaning. I went ahead and made the Roasted Butternut Squash Soup that I plan to serve on Thanksgiving Day. The squash smelled so good roasting in the oven! While it roasted, I got the onion, butter, apple and sage cooking. Ummm, I love the smells of Thanksgiving and Christmas … [Read more...]
My (and my son’s) Winter Favorites
January 12, 2019 by 62 Comments
This is how fall/winter always starts for me: It's the end of September and I'm dreading the end of summer. I wish I could keep fall/winter from coming or at least somehow fast forward through it to spring. I almost feel depressed thinking that summer is over and the long months of winter are upon us. Then Halloween happens, I love Halloween and all the decorating and silliness that accompanies it. … [Read more...]
Beautiful Calendar Inserts for Any Agenda, Especially for the Louis Vuitton Fan
January 9, 2019 by 44 Comments
Last summer I was offered a trip to Maui, Hawaii by a friend who had booked a week there but ended up not being able to go due to another commitment. (Read more about that trip under the Travel category at the top of BNOTP here: Travel.) During that trip, I did some shopping which included visiting a Louis Vuitton store in Whalers Village. While inside, I spotted the most beautiful antique trunk. Until … [Read more...]
Create a Little Snack Center, A Small Thank-you to Our Delivery Men & Women
November 30, 2018 by 48 Comments
My day had a not-so-great start. I awoke, turned on my computer and it began making an odd whirring sound. I think the fan in the CPU tower has gone out. Again. ~~~sigh~~~ It shut down by itself and made a terrible "siren" sound when I attempted to restart it. So I'll be packing a lunch (because it takes that long to get there and back!) and driving to the other side of Atlanta today to leave it for … [Read more...]
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...]
Living the Life of Reilly and A Luxurious Gift Idea
July 28, 2018 by 32 Comments
Recently in a post, I shared some fun ideas for hanging art or small paintings down low where they can be appreciated while sitting nearby. (See that post here: Hang a Little Painting Where It Will Surprise and Delight.) Cindy left this comment on that post. A friend’s cat has his own art gallery at his level. Every visit, I check to see if he has added to his collection. Small pieces that are … [Read more...]
Hang a Little Painting Where It Will Surprise and Delight
July 25, 2018 by 34 Comments
Earlier in the spring I shared this wee painting of one of my tablescapes. (View this little teascape in detail here: St. Patrick's Day Tea.) The painting was a surprise painting done by a lovely artist and reader of BNOTP named, Fifi. After she let me know she had created the painting, I purchased it from her but never got around to having it framed. Life got in the way and I never got … [Read more...]
Where I Find the Best Travel Deals & Some Amazing Deals Available Right Now
June 6, 2018 by 29 Comments
Recently I shared a post where I highlighted a few items I always take when I travel abroad. If you missed that post, you'll find it here: 5 Essentials for Traveling Internationally. I love the comments you leave on posts--always learn new things from you with each and every post. The interactions and discussions in the comments are wonderful, appreciate those so much. On that particular post linked … [Read more...]
Pyramids, Mummies and Cruising the Nile River
May 6, 2018 by 76 Comments
Happy Weekend! It is absolutely gorgeous here, the kind of day that pulls you outdoors. I'll be heading outside for a hike this afternoon with my son, dil and grandsons. They have so many natural areas and parks here to enjoy, all perfect for hiking. I hope you are enjoying beautiful weather, be it spring or fall depending on where you live. Back in 2015 when I thought I was a year away from turning 60 … [Read more...]
Tablescape Thursday News, Recent Purchases, & Email Addresses to Avoid
April 20, 2018 by 58 Comments
Hotmail Blocking Emails Occasionally I hear from someone who has subscribed to receive email updates so they'll know when a new post is up here at Between Naps On The Porch, but unfortunately, the updates are never arriving. Today I learned something very surprising. Apparently, there's a big problem with Hotmail. Often, emails that are sent to Hotmail email addresses end up being rejected and never get … [Read more...]
Hall Tree Decision, A Missing Bag, A Delightful Book, My Fave Winter Lotion & A Scrumptious Scarf
January 24, 2018 by 31 Comments
Can you believe I'm just now storing away all my Christmas wreaths? I took the wreaths off the windows after I returned from Germany, but due to being sick and then going out of town for 8-9 days, I'm just now getting everything put away. And you know what, I feel zero guilt about it. lol Getting well and visiting family were all way more important than putting the wreaths back in storage and taking down … [Read more...]
How Much Does It Cost To Have VHS & 8 mm Tapes Transferred Over to DVD?
September 20, 2017 by 43 Comments
Thanks so much for all your input on Saturday's post about the hall/basement door I recently had replaced. After reading all the comments, I was leaning toward having the door installation redone. (Read the comments here: Is This Door Too Short?) I've had such mixed feelings about this situation and that's not normal for me. Normally when work is done in my home and there's a problem, I … [Read more...]
