A Hint of Spring...

For the past two weeks, the west coast - or as I like to refer to it - the left coast, has had a bit of a warm front.  It's been fine to wear a Spring coat and a scarf and leave the wool clothes at home.  I'd like to think it would stay like this but I'm fairly certain we'll have a bit more Winter weather.  But until then, I plan to enjoy my lighter layers!

photo: crush cul de sac 

New Beginnings: Second Semester Awaits!

I start the second semester of my school year tomorrow.  I always feel excited when the second half of the year begins and it's beginning to look a bit brighter outside.  And of course, the anticipation of Summer in the not-too-distant future!  With all that is going on in the world, I look forward to infusing new ideas into my Modern European History.  My students will create their own blog during the Enlightenment unit as blogs have been compared to the seventeenth century pamphlet.  In my French Revolution unit I plan to have the students compare it to the current revolutions occurring in Egypt, Tunisia, and Yemen.  We'll look at how social media has played a major role.  I can hardly wait!  Have a lovely Sunday!

photo: patterson maker 

Decayed Beauty

I love this image of life returning to what looks like an abandoned building.  I can just imagine having lunch in such a beautiful spot.  Perfection.  Have a wonderful weekend lovelies!

photo: here 

The Beauty of Words

I have to admit - I have a love of the written word.  I am happiest when the pile of books on my bedside table is large.  Words themselves are beautiful to look at and I'm happiest when surrounded by them. I have old french flash cards, passports, documents, and even a hand written opera scattered throughout the house.  Every time I look at them, they make me smile.

photos: 1 & 2 , 3 

The Ideal Shelf

Yesterday I came across this kitchen shelf and it was absolute love at first sight.  I adore the idea of a kitchen with the entire wall in white tiles and the shelf itself is so unique.  I've been to many flea markets around the world but never found one with the double shelf.  Of course what makes it look so beautiful are the set of old cafe bowls - utter perfection!

photo: red ticking 

Handbags to Die For!

I think it might be a sickness with me.  I love purses and as soon as I get a new one, I'm already thinking about what the next one will look like.  I would love to find one in a nude and natural leather.  Maybe a big envelope style or just a big satchel.  Any suggestions? My daughter and I are planning a quick trip to Santa Fe, New Mexico in March and it would be so much fun to have a new chic bag to carry along.

I especially love the clutch in the first photo.  And the shoes in the last one aren't bad either!  A girl can never have too many bags or shoes, right?

photo: 1 , 2-5 , 6 

Wall of Photos & Drawings

For over a year now, I've been wanting to put together a collection of black and white photography and I have yet to do it. The only photograph I've worked into my house is a small sepia photo of a buddha that I found at the Alameda Flea Market last summer.  I think I need to work on my collection.  I love the images in the bottom left photo - don't you?

photo:dressdesigndecor 

A Skirt With a Bounce

I know I just posted a woman in a beautiful twirling skirt.  And today I found another photograph of a similar skirt - makes me wonder if this is the next new trend.  It's very Spanish looking and I adore it. New and fresh and adds a certain bounce to a woman's step!

photo here 

Glove Crush

I received a pair of beautiful cable knit gloves that don't have fingers.  I so love everything about them.  To begin with, I can still use my phone and have a bit more agility when I'm carrying a lot of bags.  I have wanted a pair for ages and they're finally in style so I have seen them in virtually every store I've been to.  I should go out and buy a few more pairs to have in reserve!

photo here 

Things I Love...

There are some things in decorating that I rarely think about but would love to include in my home - some are easier than others I might add!  I love brick walls that are painted white - they add texture to the room and are less formal than other walls.  Tables with diagonal legs add an architectural element - those I do have in my house. Large windows to let the natural light in are something that can be so uplifting - especially at this dark time of year. I've always wanted a library ladder - ever since I saw one in a film and thought it was such an intelligent invention - maybe someday I'll find one.  And finally, having a room with a beautiful view - what more can you ask for!

Bundling Up and Keeping Warm

The weather here has been playing with my head.  One minute it feels as if Spring were around the corner and the next I brisk wind comes up and shakes me to the bone.  I think the key for me is to continue to wear my big warm scarves.  What's your favorite winter accessory?

photos: 1 , 2, 3, 4 

A Good Soak

I have tubs in my town house but none are as beautiful as these gems.  I especially love the zinc tub in the first image.  It's cold and foggy this morning and I lingered a bit longer while getting ready for work.  I hope all of you have a lovely Monday.  These stunning photographs are from here. 

Breakfast on the Porch

While it's not quite warm enough to actually enjoy my breakfast out on the porch, I do have my shutters to the porch open (they're about nine feet tall) and the sun in streaming in.  The warmth of the sun reminds me that it won't be that much longer that I actually can sit out there.  I wait in anticipation.

photos: 1 & 2 

Sweet Dreams

After a very intense week at work preparing for finals week in my history classes, I look so forward to this weekend and spending a bit more time sleeping than I do during the week.  It's also supposed to be sunny here for the weekend so I plan to take walks outdoors to stock up on my vitamin D.  I hope all of you have a lovely weekend with time to do the things you love.

photos: 1 , 2 , 3, 4, 5  & 6 

Joyful Spirit

I was searching for fashion photos that might inspire me and I quickly realized that the majority of photographs I found, the person is never smiling. So here is to people everywhere who crack a smile now and then.

photos: 1-4 , 5&6 

Blog Inspiration: Northern Lights

I have to admit that on my lunch break at work today I was visiting a few favorite blogs when I came upon a house at Northern Lights that literally took my breath away.  Seriously, if I could have an identical house I would think I had died and gone to heaven.  I'm one of the few designers I know that loves a dark and glossy floor.  The home is owned by the founders of Day Birger & Mikkelsen.  They have the successful store in Denmark called Day. The art collection on the walls appears to have been collected thoughtfully and over time.  Black & white photography abounds and I honestly can't think of a single thing I would change.  I am ready to pack my bags and move in. The least I can do is visit the store.