All posts filed under: decorating ideas

Sunday Edition: Topics Of Interest From Around The World

I am finally seeing a light at the end of the tunnel, in terms of this bug/flu thing I managed to get caught up in this past week – the entire event being kicked off by a stiff neck,  followed by an achy body, fever, headache and a huge knot in my throat, or more like a piece of rock lodged in the worst possible way, causing all kinds of havoc on my body and soul. Since I am so aware of my health, I noticed this time around, I had the worst stomach pains also – which got me thinking perhaps this was a combo flu – or a virus that was thoughtful enough to attack all of my organs. Anyway, the way I know I am feeling better is that I wanted to actually get on my phone and dabble in paint-by-number app, and then one thing led to the next and here we are – with a list of interesting topics I want to share with all of you – cooped up …

Decor: With Happiness In Mind

I never appreciated my home as much as I have since January, after our company’s office move, where we are cooped up for 8+ hours each day without natural light, or air. I apologize for playing this broken record, but I swear I don’t know how people do it. The environment has taken a toll on me. In light of this anxiety I am faced with daily, I realize there are others who feel the same way and would probably appreciate the idea of decorating with happiness  in mind.

Lifestyle: Less Is More

Over the weekend, I scanned the house again to make a mental note of all things I need to get rid of – more purging or downsizing I feel is warranted the wiser (older) I get. Clutter is out, and streamline and less is more. Believe it or not, a simpler decor tends to fool the eye into seeing the space clean at all times. It also helps ease off the daily stress – when you walk into a home that is minimal. {source} {source}

Decor: The Formal In Living Rooms

Formal living Rooms may be a thing of the past as more homeowners opt for a comfortable open space family room, an extension of the kitchen space, where everyone can be together, without the worry of keeping everything in order. But if you happen to entertain often, or love the idea of a formal living room – as part of your home, I have to say these decor ideas are pretty simple to recreate on any budget.

Decor: Trends in Color for 2019

Is it too early in the morning to discuss decor? I mean it could be – considering the time change and our efforts to adjust. Decor is secondary, unless you happen to be on a commuter train, scrolling through your phone to stay awake. In terms of decor, I always feel the need to refresh a room in the house – give it a new coat of paint, change the curtains, or move the furniture around and add a plant or two, even go as far as changing the light fixtures – anything to welcome Spring. And here’s what I am thinking: {source}  

Decor: Walk-In Renovation

I’ve been in a weird mood this week and in an effort to snap out of it I decided to switch from pondering over deep topics to something light and airy. Decor and Travel always make me feel good when I am otherwise fixated on the worst of things. Lately, I’ve been contemplating tackling my walk in built back in the late 60’s in my 1930’s home in San Francisco. I mean I do love the efforts made by the previous owner, using the finest of wood for the shelves and other materials no longer available for renovation projects. So, I grab my cup of coffee on the days I work from home, and sit staring into the closet to figure out how best to bring up to the 21st century, or one that I’ll get the most use out of it.  Disclaimer, I hate folded clothes, I prefer all things on hangers, naturally in color order and season 🙂  Don’t judge. So, here we are, glancing at the photos below and staring into that …

Dessert, Champagne and Classic Films

I am all for throwing a party for singles on V(G)alentine’s Day. I mean who says February 14 is only for those in love, or otherwise in a relationship, to plan a special date night? I say, text or call, or text (who makes phone calls anymore) and invite a few friends over for B.Y.O.Aappetizers, putting much emphasis on the importance of desserts and champagne while watching a few classic films from this list – and in case you don’t know where to start… {source here, and here}

Food: You Had Me at Rose, Lemon, Shortbread Cookies

I teared up when I saw this beautiful pic online leading to a simple shortbread cookie recipe which by the way is wonderful to have on-hand for not only Valentine’s Day, but for bridal showers and even a simple wedding in a friend’s backyard or another.  The hardest part is finding the perfect ensemble of cookie cutters – past the heart-shaped ones, perhaps parasol for showers, baby carriage for, well baby showers and so… INGREDIENTS 2 sticks (1 cup) salted butter 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1 tablespoon lemon zest 1 teaspoon dried rose petals, finely crushed (optional) 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour LEMON GLAZE 2 cups powdered sugar 2 tablespoons Meyer (or regular) lemon juice 1-2 drops blood orange juice (optional)   {more}  Cookie cutters in the U.S.  from here, here, here and here And my favorite from here