baby green

Monday Color: Valentines Edition

2012-02-13T20:49:00.027-05:00

On the eve of Valentines Day, today's Monday Color combination is, of course, red and pink. And it's not because I buy into Valentines Day whatsoever but rather because it's a range of hues I've never had much of an affinity for so I wanted to embrace the challenge of finding interiors that happily marry the colors. Love is in the air.

Images above:

1. This living room mixes red and pink together to perfection (found on lovehome.co.uk).

2. Working coral in the mix makes it all feel a bit less saccharine (living room found on Decorica).

3. I love this wallpaper and the pops of red and orange in this little hallway vignette found on The Lennoxx.

4. The pink and red stenciled walls add a lot of sophistication and eclectic worldliness to this girls room, from Decor Pad.

5. The pale robins egg walls and canopy coexist surprisingly beautifully with accents of pink and red (also from Decor Pad).

6. A quaint exterior in bright pink with an ever brighter red door.

7. This unique kitchen with wood cabinets, bright magenta walls and an oversized vintage N is like nothing I've ever seen, but somehow it works (found on Trendey Decor).

8. A vibrant Suzanni throw pillow from Turquoise Tumbleweed on Etsy.

9. Miquelrius Notebook from Kate's Paperie.

10. Emma Rug in Red & Pink from Seltzer Studios.

11. Cercle De Fleur in red and pink from Allegro Fabrics.

12. Cynthia Vardhan Ceramics Red Dish Set, available from Next.

13. Perfect shades of pink and coral stitched onto a jute shade give the Coral Rays Shades from Anthropologie a retro-natural vibe.

14. To Love You giclee print from Z Gallerie.

Family Affair

2012-02-12T09:25:00.016-05:00

Stick figure family auto decals have been a little pet peeve of mine since the trend began. But like all things that have mass popularity but annoy a small few, satirical versions have been cropping up everywhere and some of them are pretty darn hilarious. You can either drive around any given suburb and see for yourself, or take a look at a few of the funniest ones here:

This is exactly what I think in my mind when I pull up behind every SUV emblazoned with a set of these conventional stick figure family decals.

You have to appreciate a single cat-loving woman with a sense of humor.

This is my personal favorite, although I'd find one featuring the wife with the chainsaw to be even funnier.

Perfect for the recently divorced man.

Enough said.

The real American family: Gun Family Sticker available from Desert Dog Decals.

On a more serious note, I recently saw this single parent version for the first time and while that would be the last thing I would ever publicize on my car, I still appreciated it.

Esty Love: Valentines Edition

2012-02-11T12:27:00.015-05:00

If I had a Valentine, or gave a crap about yet another bogus consumerist Hallmark holiday (ok, maybe I'm a little bitter), then here are the a few of the unique, decidedly UN-Hallmark treasures from Etsy I'd consider giving or might be keen on receiving, alongside a lovingly prepared breakfast in bed of course. Perhaps my future beau is taking notes for next year.....

I Love You 8x8 Photo Print by Sherri Conley.

Natural Driftwood Heart from Tidal Creations.

5x7 Vintage Heart Anatomy from Encyclomedia Town.

Key Heart Necklace from Tara Jackson Jewelry.

Owl Heart Platter by Black Baroque.

Handmade Heart-shaped Bowls by JD Wolfe Pottery.

I'd swoon over just about anything wrapped in some old newspaper and this I Love You Ribbon from The Lonely Heart.

Ready, Aim, Fire!

2012-02-08T22:58:00.012-05:00

Ever since the 2nd Amendment took hold, a large percentage of our country has remained proudly and legally self-armed. However, gun ownership has shown a steady decline in the last few decades down to an estimated 1/4 of U.S. adults owning a legal firearm (clearly, it's difficult to obtain statistics on the very large number of illegally sold and possessed firearms). But that's still no small thing with approximately 4.5 million new nonmilitary guns and about 2 million secondhand firearms sold every year. In the past few years I've noticed the design world adopting firearm motifs in home decor more than ever, visually celebrating of this vital part of Americana, regardless of the decline in those choosing to bear arms. From the downright kitschy to the design icon, firearms have found their way into our homes in a whole new way.

Gun Grip Door Handles found on Geekologie.

A gun table lamp from the Philippe Starck Collection for Flos.

Pistol Cabinet Hardware from Billy Blue 22 on Etsy.

Ruger Mark II MK512 Shower Curtain from Eternal Art, also on Etsy.

Gun-shaped Egg Fryers from Island Dogs, available on Amazon.

Gun Stand Coat Rack from Collections Etc.

Porcelaine Pistols by Yvonne Lee Schultz, via Swag Like Me.

Monday Color: Black and Gold

2012-02-06T20:58:00.032-05:00

Like the 100 or so million other Americans who watched yesterday's Super Bowl, I was truly entertained and inspired. It was a great game. Although I have to admit that the most pleasurable source of entertainment and inspiration for me was that thrilling half-time performance by the legendary Madonna (and several talented buds of hers). And so I turn to her wardrobe palette for today's Monday Color combination: the fierce black and gold pairing of her half Grecian, half Stripper ensemble. Here's how it works off the field:

Images above:

1. An opulent black and gold bathroom.

2. A sparkly gold fireplace in a room dotted with bold black, found on Real Simple.

3. A wild zebra rug with a more subdued gold velvet sofa against deep black walls strikes a unique balance.

4. A living room filled with sexy black seating and a bunch of industrial chic accents from ehomee.com.

5. The combination of gold damask wallpaper and a black bed show how fine the line between tacky and tasteful is, but successfully pulls it off with the sophisticated of black and white photography and crisp hotel bedding (from Decor Pad).

6. Whoa! Daring gold-painted trim with black and gold wallpaper and accessories (from Beautiful Shopping).

7. And DOUBLE whoa! The Midas Touch Collection by Philip Plein (as seen on Luxury Launches).

8. A black and gold Ralph Lauren Home pillow, found on Departures.com.

9. Leonardo Leather Ottomans as featured on ID Best.

10. Guilt Mirror by Koket.

11. Barbara Cahn's handmade black and gold porcelain vase.

12. There are plenty of over-the-top black and gold dinnerware options on the market, but nothing makes this color duo more palatable than classic a Black Astbury Wedgwood set (available from The Crystal Company).

13. From the Metalic Cowhide Collection at Saddlemans of Santa Fe.

14. A clever gloss black and gold leafed Jewelry Armoire by Powell available at Accent Furniture Online.

Etsy Love: (something a little different this week)

2012-02-04T20:38:00.019-05:00

This week marked the soft, unofficial launch of my new interior design firm Wolf & Wing Interior Design, which is really just a re-branded, blended fusion of all my design businesses of the last decade into one unified concept that I'm so proud and eager to move ahead with. New Years Intention #1 checked off the list!!!

Since I've been a little busy with all this, I have neglected to post anything here since Monday and am only going to do a modified Etsy Love post today, not featuring a single shop, but rather a curation of items throughout Etsy that feature either a wolf or a wing to celebrate my new endeavor. You can't hear the noisemakers and champagne bottle corks, but they're honking and popping over here nonetheless. Enjoy with me, please.

Brass Eagle from Rhett Didn't Give a Damn

Bird Wing Printed on Vintage Map of NW Australia by Herbert Co (Ingrid, if you're reading this.....you must get this and put it on your dream board!!)

"We Make Our Truth" Graphic Hand Printed Tee from Sirius Grafik (if ANYONE'S reading this, I'd probably fit a Mens Small!).

Two beautiful, screaming-my-name Patina Wing Pendants from Amanda Davies Elements Etsy Shop.

Evolving Habitats Custom Made Wolf Forest Light Box.

Baby Boy On Wolf Print by Hide N Seek.

A Little Lark's Gold Wolf Sketchbook.

Recycled Cotton Canvas Lunch Sak with a hand-screened image of a wolf in a forest, also from A Little Lark.

Monday Color: Blush & Chocolate

2012-01-30T22:42:00.037-05:00

My son recently asked me what my least favorite colors are and I quickly answered red and pink. I've warmed up to red in my design work over time, but pink still haunts the tomboy in me. I have one shirt dotted with tiny pink flowers but I always wear it with jeans and boyish cardigans to offset the frilly femininity. But I came across the first bedroom below on House Beautiful's website and saw a sophisticated, soothing side of pale pink that I'd never acknowledged before, thanks to its pairing with a deep brown, crisp lines and touches of subtle glamour. So I delved deeper to find other examples of a how hues of blush pink and chocolate brown work together, outside of a box of Valentine's chocolates, that is.

Images above:

1. The subtle accents of blush pink and chocolate brown that inspired this post, as seen in the second photo in a round-up of pink rooms on House Beautiful.

2. #35 on a list of 56 beautiful living rooms, also on House Beautiful, the sweet pale pink walls are balanced by hearty chocolate leather chairs and textural sisal in this space.

3. Apple green punches up a pink and brown palette in this sitting area (found on Confetti Style).

4. Found on Odi Et Amo, the wood tones in this living room provide the grounding dark browns for a rainbow of pink hues to dance against.

5. A sweet yet sophisticated pink and brown girls room, found on VT Interiors.

6. A glamorous vignette of pink art on espresso walls.

7. Another bedroom with a contemporary chocolate brown upholstered headboard and plenty of white to balance out the powder pink walls (via a blog called Mama Mona).

8. I love the chocolate brown walls and subtle touches of pink in the chandelier and chair backs in this dining room, found on The Lennoxx .

9. The Gladstone Cast Iron Single Ended Bath comes in a soothing pale pink, from the UK's Victorian Plumbing.

10. The perfect towels to pair with the tub above for a nature-inspired blush and chocolate bathroom color scheme (Cherry Blossom Towel Set from Amazon).

11. A hand block print pillow in brown and blush hues from EarthLab's Etsy Shop.

12. The Don't Be Square Rug from Rugs Direct would be a mod touch in any girls room.

13. Saturday Knight Ltd's Owl Shower Curtain marries light pink and chocolate brown with several other fun hues, perfect for a modern kids bathroom.

14. Carter's adorable Pink Elephant Crib Set from Baby Super Mall.

15. Graham & Brown's Hand-Painted Orchid Canvas Art from All Modern.

Etsy Love: Bookha At Home

2012-01-28T20:53:00.017-05:00

Knowing my love of feathers, it's no surprise that it was the Tea Towel with the sweet black and white bird and Springtime themed images on them that first drew me to Bookha At Home on Etsy. But I was further delighted to find a tight edit of environmentally friendly materials and original designs for home and baby. And for those women who actually still shop for themselves (what's that like?!?), there's a great little line of clutches and totes.

Hand-printed Spring-inspired images make this Tea Towel more a work of art; solvent free inks on hemp/organic cotton make it an eco-friendly beauty.

Laser cut birch Wood Alphabet in Courier New font, up close and hung in a darling nursery in a Covet Garden magazine spread.

Animal Onesies printed in nontoxic ink on organic cotton.
- moose (red ink)
- owl (orange/red ink)
- beaver (rust brown ink)
- hare (light grey ink)
- tortoise (burgundy ink)
- bear (blue ink)
- cat (blue/grey ink)

Combining function and beauty, Bookha At Home's Small Storage Boxes feature original designs printed with nontoxic inks on 100% natural linen with organic cotton canvas linings.

Pipe Dreams

2012-01-26T09:28:00.018-05:00

Some people are so damn creative. This wall unit and desk made from industrial plumbing fixtures featured on Remodelista today is the epitome of clever creation. And it's a beauty too. It is the product of the creative hands at Houston-based design firm Analog/Dialog. If you are as ambitious, step-by-step instructions for something similar can be found on The Brick House. I love the $200 total investment, but the head-ache sounds like it has a higher price. I was curious to see what else the tinkerers out there were making with plumbing fixtures, and here's what I dug up:

The shelving in the lobby of the iconic Ace Hotel in Palm Springs that inspired The Brick House DIY project.

A much less rigid, sculptural approach from Akke Functional Art.

A desk found on Apartment Therapy by and for Oat's graphic design studios.

Found on Curbly, these light fixtures were conceived by MESH Architects. Adapt the lessons from this DIY Plumbing Fixture Lamp tutorial from Man Made to throw together your own, or find pre-made versions on MESH Architecture's Etsy shop.

Also on Etsy, Stella Blue Designs Etsy Shop has an array of wall-mounting shelving and other storage solutions made from industrial plumbing supplies, including this smart corner shelf.

First Aid

2012-01-25T10:27:00.018-05:00

I have a little boy who is 6, going on 13, it seems. But thankfully he's a mellow kid with no natural inclination for violence. But the after-school playground football games seem to be getting more aggressive and as they say, boys will be boys. Just for fun, I thought I'd find some cool bandages to stock up on for future scraped knees and elbows. Spongebob themed Band-Aids probably won't cut it anymore.

Jesus Bandages from Amazon.com ($9.98 for 2 tins).

What Happened? Bandages available at Urban Outfitters ($7.00).

Cowboy Bandages from Archie McPhee ($4.95).

Pirate Bandages from Entertainment Earth ($4.99).

Monday Color: Citron & Gray

2012-01-23T08:01:00.039-05:00

Today's skies alternated between an overcast haze and somber gray rain clouds without a sliver of sunlight from morning till night. The dismal weather clearly sparked my selection of colors for today's post, badly needing to inject some bright sunshine into today's grayness. Plus, I'm always a sucker for unexpected opposites and balanced contrast - for the 'yin' and 'yang' of decorating motifs, so to speak - which citron and gray most certainly are. Let's see what you think about this bright and gloomy Monday Color pairing.....

Images above:

1. From a post on Styled Haven, these gray & white stripes, layers of yellow and rustic nightstands go perfectly together.

2. There's so much to love about this eclectic living room found on Home Bunch.

3. Gray grasscloths walls would be enough to have me smitten, but paired with a yellow headboard and bench, and that daring introduction of deep army green.....all I can say is 'wow!' (found on Decor Pad)

4. This bedroom reflects the mellow results when both the citrine and gray are on the warmer side.

5. From Laura Casey Interiors' blog, this yellow door and gray home exterior make me almost as happy as my own white house with its bright golden door.

6. A gray and citron living room featured on Nell Hill's blog.

7. These deep yellow walls are balanced by abundant white architectural details and subdued gray furniture.

8. In this living room, a daring citron sofa is perfectly paired with medium wood tones and plenty of gray, and echoed in accessories and shelf insets for an expertly finished look.

9. A great art idea for a cheery yellow and gray bedroom, from Martha Stewart, via All Things Chic.

10. This ultra-modern room doesn't feel overly cold thanks to the injection of bold yellow on the accent wall.

11. Michael Millers Citron & Gray Bird Swing fabric from fabric.com.

12. Chester Tufted Upholstered Sofa in special order Dandelion, from West Elm.

13. Gray and Yellow Sputnik Rug from Domestic Modern.

14. Perch! Design's Early Bird Light in yellow also comes in a soft gray.

15. Omniware's Hemisphere Gray & Yellow 11" Dinner Plate from Amazon.com.

16. Romo's Kimura Wallpaper in Tumeric.

17. Using the same Romo pattern, this room highlights a creative way to save money but still add big color impact: framing wallpaper as art (found on Exponent Expira).

Etsy Love: Manzanita Kids

2012-01-21T07:55:00.010-05:00

I always love a good story, and David's and Adrienne's is just that. With a newborn and a layoff on their hands simultaneously, the couple behind Manzanita Kids searched their souls and creative talents for a way to make a living from home, and thus their toy company was born. Lines of Montessori and Waldorf-inspired developmental puzzles and blocks, as well as wonderfully imaginative modular building sets, were lovingly conceived to "nurture creative play." Offerings are all hand-cut in natural materials and many feature their own homemade beeswax/organic safflower oil finish, for a toy line that is as eco-friendly as it is pure fun.

Surely inspired by the iconic Robert Indiana sculpture, the Love Puzzle spreads a positive message to the littlest hearts.

From their baby line, these Moon Rattles are finished with their homemade beeswax/organic safflower oil, safe for teething mouths and tiny hands.

Several different Animal Puzzle creature combinations are available, including this adorable Bear, Shark & Parrot trio.

The Elephant Seesaw is a simple yet engaging way to sharpen a toddler's understanding of balance and motion.

One of several Modular Building Sets handmade by Manzanita Kids, affording hours of versatile, imaginative play.

Put A Cork In It

2012-01-17T23:02:00.014-05:00

New Years Eve came and went without much of a fuss from me, but certainly in merry festivities far and wide, corks were popping and bubbles pouring. I may uncork a bottle of wine now and again, but my true obsession with this ultra-sustainable material lies in its myriad other home uses beyond beverage sealing, from decorative surfaces to functional bowls. Here's a few of my earth-friendly favorites.

100% natural cork fabric Adjust-A-Bowls come in medium and large sizes and are available through Branch Home.

Vitra's Cork Stool C from Design Within Reach.

Recycled Cork Mosaic Tiles made from cork beverage topper industry waste are durable, sustainable, and naturally antimicrobial (tiles shown are from Habitus).

Recycled cork Float Pendants by Benjamin Hubert.

The pricey but handsome mildew-resistant Cork Bath Collection from Labrazel Home.

Small chips of metallic cork make up this unique wallpaper, found on My Two Designers.

This sleek, modern kitchen with cork flooring strikes the perfect contrast.

Michael Roger Straw's Cork Sleeve for Apple's 15" MacBook, from Amazon.

Monday Color: Indigo & Khaki

2012-01-16T12:07:00.033-05:00

I recently received the new Spring 2012 Serena & Lily catalog, a brand I've long admired since back when they were only peddling bedding. The pages felt like a journey around the world, with colorful palettes from bold to serene, indicative of a company that has really come of age. I pulled the inspiration for today's Monday Color Combination from this relaxed, eclectic bedroom, featuring the toned down nautical vibe of Indigo & Khaki, with lots of white of course.

From the dip-dyed curtains, to the pieced-denim wall-hanging, to the chevron patterned rug, blue tones take center stage without overpowering. The upholstered Fillmore Bed plays the perfect supporting role in the versatile White/Putty Jaipur fabric, a less contrasty pairing than your standard blue and white palette. Read on to see how this combination works in any room, harnessing any style.

An eclectic boys room with rustic wood paneled walls, pops of apple green and cheery red, boldly striped bedding, all grounded by a blue and khaki palette (from Decor Pad).

Spotted on Lisa Sherry Interieurs blog, the linen colored upholstered chair and light wood plays beautifully off the deeply saturated indigo walls in this bedroom.

A Nantucket living room designed by Frank Roop featuring a sea of blue hues with a sandy colored jute rug anchoring the nautical look and a tiny infusion of bright green stripes to keep it all light-hearted (from House Beautiful).

A traditional blue and white country feel in this living room gets even more informal with the infusion of khaki the rug delivers.

Another Serena & Lily-styled room emphasizing, how they always have, that a nursery can be sophisticated and baby-friendly at the same time.

Safavieh's Alba Rug in Indigo & Sand, designed by Thomas O'Brien.

West Elm's Organic Cotton Pintuck Duvet Cover in Steel Blue

Kelly Wearstler's Sea Urchin fabric for Lee Jofa.

Unionmade Doane Utility Notebook against a dark khaki headboard.

Coyuchi's hand embroidered linen Radiant Roman Key Pillow is available in two enticing colorways: all-indigo scheme or a light khaki linen with just a touch of blue.

The timeless 1950's Windsor Love Seat dipped in blue, available from Anthropologie.

Two examples from the fashion world showing the versatility of indigo and khaki, from its bohemian, utilitarian personality to its chic, urban adaptability.

Friday the 13th - Superstitions as Decorations

2012-01-13T08:12:00.023-05:00

Friday the 13th is here and since I'm not very superstitious myself, I've decided to celebrate the most common folkloric phobias and anecdotes from the bad luck black cats are supposed to bring to the good fortune of horseshoes. With a whopping three Friday the 13th's falling in the 2012 calendar, maybe I should consider being a little less flippant and a little more cautious this year. (Knock on wood, that is.)

A whole wall of intentionally broken mirror from Living Etc, via Aw Snips.

Two of the many brilliant umbrella art installations by Crooked Brains.

From a post on Elements at Home featuring intriguing ways to decorate with ladders, some safely against the wall, some just beckoning to be walked underneath like this one.

Tempt fate every day with the Sigg Black Cat Silhouette Water Bottle.

The aged concrete floors of this Toronto, CA auto repair shop converted into a relaxed modern home leaves plenty of floor cracks over which to step, but I think these are of the lucky kind. (Design by Levitt Goodman Architects, found on Plastolux.)

Put this symbol of good fortune to good use. (Authentic Used Horseshoe Triple Hook from Trailwood Western Store.)

Monday Color: Lavender & Ivory

2012-01-09T18:19:00.034-05:00

I found my inspiration for today's Monday Color post in the recent Elle Decor spread featuring Hilary Swank's Manhattan apartment designed by Mark Zeff. Her living room is awash in accents of stony lavender against an ivory back-drop of boxy Calvin Klein sofas and a massive putty colored area rug. Plus one wall is clad in planks of reclaimed barn wood! **swoon** The overall effect is serene and airy, yet earthy and grounded, marking the beginning of my love affair with this sophisticated lavender and ivory combination.

Images above:

1. A shot of Hilary Swank's living room with art and accent pillows in an ethereal lavender.

2. A darker lavender upholstered bench pops against an ivory bed and grasscloth walls (from Decor Pad).

3. From Design Shuffle, via Dream to Life, I love the infusion of color these plummy lavender chairs bring to the bone-colored walls of this dining room.

4. An ivory bed is surrounded by grayish lavender walls and touches of peach and violet throughout the room to create this restful master bedroom retreat, designed by the team at my former company re:place.

5. Pale beige walls and all-neutral furnishings are a design staple allowing allowing the addition of virtually any accent hue. In this room, a pale lavender Ikat accent pillow is the simple show piece of color, found on Real Simple.

6. Another Decor Pad find, this masculine lavender pairs well with wood tones, a mustard headboard and off-white walls. I love the vintage science chart but am not so certain I'd want to sleep beneath a bee hive!

7. From a Happy Color Combinations post on House Beautiful, this eclectic living room adds chartreuse and gold to the lavender and ivory mix. Happy indeed!

8. Anthropologie's Le Versha Chair in Plum.

9. Selati, a zebra print chenille from Osborne & Little.

10. New Hope Plum, a profusion of purple hues in an abstract painting by Randy Hibberd, available through Z Gallerie.

11. Nourison's Parallels Rug in Lavender, available from Rugs Direct.

12. The Lulu Nursery Collection from Serena & Lily.

Etsy Love: Flux Glass

2012-01-07T18:27:00.017-05:00

Quite appropriately, my son and I created our New Years Intentions this year while listening to Michael Jackson's Man In the Mirror. He requested "MJ" and Man In the Mirror is hands down my favorite one of his singles, so on it went. We giggled at our cheesiness but sang along at the tops of our lungs anyway.

A few days later I was on the hunt for unique eco-friendly mirrors for a client, mindful of the approaching Saturday Etsy Love feature I'd be needing to post today, and I stumbled upon Flux Glass. All the uniquely shaped mirrors are handmade by Dennis Smith in Asheville North Carolina from upcycled mirrors. As a designer, I got particularly excited about the infinite custom options that are available. Have a look (pun intended) for yourself....

Best for those with a soft spot for California or Texas, or other interestingly-shaped states, these hand-cut, lead bordered accent mirrors would be perfect as part of a large collage wall with other beloved memorabilia or tucked in a little nook on their own. The suppressed West Coast girl in me loves the California State Wall Mirror best of all.

The Pair of Flying Bird Wall Mirrors are lovingly hand-crafted with the same upcycled mirror surrounded by lead and backed with a hanging wire, although they look just as lovely resting on a floating shelf like in the second photo above.

I love vintage signage and have amassed a nice little collection of the letter "R" which hangs above my son's dresser. (His name is Ryder, for those of you who don't know.) If I was the flashier type, I'd add the sparkle of a single mirrored letter like Flux Glass's Custom Letter Wall Mirrors to the collection.

The Dish on Eco-Sponges

2012-01-05T23:06:00.008-05:00

Ever since my friend Lizzy turned me onto them, I've been buying Twist sponges for all my cleaning needs. I like their power and their style; yes, a design enthusiast like me can't stand to have a neon green sponge in her light blue and white kitchen. And yes, I'm aware that I have a problem.

The upside of a seemingly impractical white sponge is that when it stops rinsing back to white after about two months, I know it probably needs to be pitched. Reports show that most Americans do not toss their sponges often enough, causing the spread of many virus and bacteria infections. So I can justify my design snobbishness because it is probably keeping us a bit safer too!

I stock up on them every so often at Sustainable NYC in the East Village, but it's not very practical to have such brand loyalty when that brand is a high-traffic 26-mile drive away. Luckily, Twist also has an online store now.

And perhaps even more conveniently, eco-friendly sponges have hit mainstream shelves now too. There are more options than ever, but Scotch Brite's Greener Clean line of eco-friendly sponges has me pretty impressed, from material, to life cycle, to efficacy, and of course the aesthetically pleasing neutral color. If you don't find them in your grocery store, Amazon seems to have the full line as well.

Here's what reviewer Danielle Liss had to say on Buy-Her.

"Greener Clean Soap Loaded Scrubbers

The soap pads are made from recycled plastic bottles. You know that 12 oz. plastic water bottle that you recycled? It has enough fibers to make approximately 6 scrubbers. The soap is biodegradable and phosphorus free. 100% recycled packaging.

GRADE: Works really well on the broiler pan, which is a popular item in our house for cooking salmon.

Greener Clean Natural Fiber Non-Scratch Sponge

Made from 100% natural materials. This is the replacement for my green and yellow sponge.

GRADE: Just as awesome and my green and yellow sponge. It also passed the Brian test. My husband doesn’t care if things are eco-friendly. He wants it to work without any additional effort. He liked it.

Greener Clean Natural Fiber Scour Pad

Made from 100% natural materials. The scrubbing fibers are made from 50% natural agave. The pads are large, so I cut them into smaller strips (I have freaky small child hands) and got about six strips from the two pads.

GRADE: FANTASTIC. These took off burned off stains from glass baking dishes that I thought were never going to come off. I am a fan for life.

Greener Clean Biodegradable Absorbent Sponge

Made from 100% natural materials. Reusable and long-lasting.

GRADE: Very handy. Super absorbent. A good alternative to paper towels. Especially if you have to clean up spills from hairless cats that like to knock over cups of water. (Is this a problem that only I have?) Much easier than using rags.

Greener Clean Biodegradable Expanding Soft Sponge

Made from 100% natural materials. Expands when wet.

GRADE: Very similar to the biodegradable absorbent sponge; however, it is expandable. Two thin sponges fit into very little packaging. I like the idea that I can get two sponges with a lot less waste."

It's About Time!

2012-01-04T10:02:00.020-05:00

I have decided that my 6 year old is ready to wake himself up in the morning, so it's alarm clock shopping time!! Of course I want to find something adorable that fits the style of his room, while effectively getting him to jump out of bed right on time. I personally use my blackberry's alarm although most mornings my eyes open wide long before it goes off. But this will be a new discipline for him, so it must again be effective but not agonizingly painful. Here are a few of the cute and practical options I'm considering:

Retro and youthful:
Talking Animal Alarm Clocks from Land of Nod (Green Frog, Orange Cat, Blue Dog each with their corresponding animal sounds).

Gentle and sweet:
Early Bird Alarm Clock from Perpetual Kid.

Modern and Minimalist:
Neewer Modern White Wood USB Cube Alarm Clock from Amazon.

The educational multi-tasker:
Teach Me Time Alarm Clock from Inventive Parents.

Combining my son's love of soccer and Legos:
Lego Kids Soccer Stadium Alarm Clock available at Toy Country.

Toning the Lego theme down a bit:
Digital Lego Alarm Clock/Radio in Yellow from Target.

Accent Shells

2012-01-03T23:24:00.010-05:00

As a beach lover living in a beach town, I get a bit melancholy as the freezing temperatures start to keep me indoors and off the sand. With the ocean only a block away, I never felt it necessary to overdo a "beach theme" in my own home. I simply have two beautiful shells - one in my bathroom and one in my kitchen - that serve as daily visual reminders of the beauty of the beach. Oh, and I have a basket of driftwood tucked into a corner that I've been meaning to make something out of for months. Perhaps the cold winter ahead will finally inspire that project!

Today's post features creative ways that others have brought just a little touch of beachiness indoors, either for their pure love of the ocean or perhaps just to stay out of the cold winter winds like I'm doing today!

From a list of tips on updating a bath on a budget, I love this simple but high-impact wall of sea life (from The Nest).

From Elle Decor.com, the DC living room of actress-writer Alexandra Wentworth and news anchor George Stephanopoulos strikes a balance between refined sophistication and nautical accents.

A tortoise shell on an antique chair has a sculptural appeal in this Venice, CA home (from Country Living).

A couple of shells from summers past can be invited to dinner every night as serving pieces, as in this example posted on Real Simple.

A casual white-on-white dining room by Kate Jackson Design found on Houzz exudes beachy perfection with no more than a simple trio of framed fan coral on the wall.

Monday Color: Tangerine Tango & White

2012-01-02T23:16:00.026-05:00

Happy New Year to one and all! I love the energy I feel in the air when January begins each year; most people let out a sigh of relief that the busy holiday season is over and are bubbling over with enthusiasm for the changes they envision themselves making with the fresh start of a new year. My son and I both made a long list of New Years Intentions this year (Resolutions sounds harsh to me, so I've been opting for the language of Intentions for years). His include advancing from blue belt to brown belt in karate and getting 100 households in our town of Long Beach to stop using single-use plastic bags. He melts my heart. Mine range from getting back into a regular workout routine to finally utilizing my Spanish Rosetta Stone that's been in a drawer for 5 years.

My Monday Color posts are also get a fresh new start, featuring color combinations in 2012 instead of single hues. I don't know where that will leave me when 2013 rolls around, but I guess I'll cross that bridge when I get to it!!

A while back Pantone announced that Tangerine Tango would be the color of the year for 2012 and I wholeheartedly applauded. I love the fresh energy of this vibrant reddish orange, especially when paired with crisp white, a color combination that feels very aligned with my enthusiasm for all the great things that are in store this year.

A nostalgic nod to the color's retro past from Design Addict Mom on Tumblr.

A cozy nook from Apartment Therapy's post on Pantone's Tangerine Tango.

A delicious tangerine and white bedroom in designer Mona Ross Berman's New Jersey home (check out those amazing floors!), from House Beautiful.

These vibrant doors framed with crisp white trim have me thinking that maybe my yellow and white entrance needs a makeover.

A bright orange claw foot tub blends right in with this otherwise neutral but eclectic bathroom design, found on Caribbean Living.

The stools in this all-white kitchen found on Klaff's design blog, shows what a tiny dose of tangerine can do in a space.

This living room found on the New England Fine Living blog is another example of how just a few bright accents (a leather pouf, a throw, and an oriental rug with accents of orange) can truly transform a neutral space.

Conversely, India Hicks ups the boldness of Tangerine Tango on slipcovered chairs by tossing in fuchsia and bright yellow too in her home.

CB2's Parlour Chair in Tangerine.

Add a pop to your white walls with Chiasso's Dish Wall Art Set in orange.

For those who are really timid about bold color, perhaps you can start small with desk accessories like this stapler by ANYTHING (available from Lumens.com).

Rachel Ray's Round & Square Dinnerware Set in tangerine.

A half dozen 22" - 28" long tangerine orange feathers could be a show-stopper grouped in a modern white vase (available at Save on Crafts).

Madeline Weinrib's Keri Rug in Coral.

This lustworthy orange mirror is vintage and from Vamp in faraway Capetown, so unless you're boarding a South African-bound place tomorrow, it could be out of reach. However any ornate mirror found at a flea market or garage sale plus a can of Benjamin Moore's Flame would create a pretty good stand-in.

Happy New Year Everyone!!

2012-01-01T23:50:00.011-05:00

"LIfe is full and overflowing with the new. But it is necessary to empty out the old to make room for the new to enter." - Eileen Caddy

Blessings,
Amanda

Christmas Eve Musings

2011-12-24T22:33:00.015-05:00

I successfully played it low-key all holiday season and am enjoying a warm Christmas Eve in my little house with a few presents left to wrap and a peacefulness in my heart. Aside from one Amazon.com order, I made most of my Christmas presents or just didn't give any. Experiences like babysitting and coffee dates made up a majority of my gift list.

My parents got wind of my household's Christmas tree debate and delivered a potted tree two weekends ago. That settled that. We decorated with the few lights and ornaments we had on hand, and made a few more to fill the admittedly greater amount of branches than we've ever had to adorn.

My son and I stamped pine trees on the craft paper that fills my monthly delivery of Shaklee products that I'd been saving since October; not a penny was spent on wrappings and trappings, nor did a tree tumble down needlessly just to cover our gifts.

My son's class had a gingerbread house-making party and it was definitely one of the highlights of the past week for both my son and I. My son loved it so much that he put in a last-minute request to Santa for another gingerbread house and, despite kits being sold out far and wide, one of 'Santa's helpers' unexpectedly left one on our doorstep this morning. Santa sure is resourceful!

We started our day today by taking toys and clothes to Salvation Army, filled its middle with a stop at a sports bar to watch the Jets get defeated, and ended it with a simple dinner and batches of homemade chocolate chip cookies. I guess you could say my focus has been much more on the "merry" than the "Christmas," a tradition I plan on keeping next year and beyond.

Our homemade wrapping paper project

A real Christmas tree without the landfill guilt!!

Gingerbread house-making party at my son's class.

One of my crafty gift efforts: a magazine rack that I sanded, painted and decoupaged with images of owls.

Our homemade chocolate chip cookies, thanks to Teddy S.!!

My Short Water Pitcher Filter Story

2011-12-14T06:14:00.010-05:00

I changed the filter in my Get Clean® Water pitcher last night and was shocked to see the rusty colored yuckiness it had successfully kept out of the last 80 gallons of water I consumed (the image above features the old filter and a brand new unused one side-by-side).

I have lived in Long Beach, New York for two and a half years now and have certainly noticed that the bath and toilet water run a little brown every so often, but I had never noticed this at the kitchen tap. I decided I needed to learn exactly what this discoloration could mean, since recently published water quality tests in our town had shown no violations in copper, lead or iron levels (although they are present in every sample tested which is why I'm adamant about filtering my water). I hit the internet to learn more and, according to this report on the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection website, orange or brown water simply means rust, either within my home's pipes or in the town water mains. It is also likely that the metal compound that's rusting is Iron. Because the discoloration in my home is inconsistent, it is likely in the town lines and there's probably little I can do about it. According to Livestrong.com, low Iron levels commonly found in drinking water do not pose a toxicity risk, and usually only cause the aggravation of stained bath fixtures or wash loads, as well as a metallic taste in unfiltered drinking water.

But I'm of the "better safe than sorry" mindset and will continue to filter the nearly 200 ounces of water I drink every day. Of additional concern is that for the 2+ years that I used a Brita filtration pitcher, I never saw a collection of such sediment, making me extra glad I switched over to Shaklee's pitcher, which is certified to reduce 3 times as many contaminants as Brita or PUR systems and the only pitcher filter on the market that removes lead when present. I popped the new carbon filter into place, poured myself a glass of water before bed, and slept a whole lot easier.

While supplies last, Shaklee is offering A Year of Cleaner, Healthier Water, which includes a BPA-free 10 cup Get Clean Water Pitcher, Refillable Filter Housing Kit, and a Water Filter 3-Pack, all in a free gift box at the special price of $117.65 (or $99.95 for members).

Monday Color: Cobalt Blue

2011-12-12T23:26:00.024-05:00

As my Christmas spirit is forced into high gear by my six year old, I wanted to turn away from the blur of reds and greens for a moment and focus on one of my favorite colors, and also the hue associated with the even faster approacher Hanukkah holiday: Cobalt Blue. Cobalt is bold and intense but not totally without the soothing properties of the blue family. Like all blues, it is also incredibly versatile but makes especially good partners with light neutrals and its warm color wheel opposites like a pinky salmon and rust orange. Whether you're dusting off your blue decorations and Menorah in preparation for the festival of lights or just a fan of the hue like I am, please read on to see the many facets of striking Cobalt Blue.

Images above:

1. A stunning high-gloss entryway from Elle Decor.

2. Pops of Cobalt Blue in a sea of white and light neutrals found on cococozy.com.

3. Accents of Cobalt Blue again, but this time against loads of complimentary orange hues (from Decor Pad).

4. I love the way this kitchen is pulled from the blue and white china held in its colorful cabinets (from Attic Mag).

5. A vignette from an all-Cobalt bedroom, found on StudioTen25's blog.

6. This image on That Bohemian Girl proves that Cobalt Blue makes a beautiful backdrop for virtually any hue.

7. An inspirational post on The Design Traveller showing the more dramatic side of Cobalt.

8. Another collage of blues found on Interiorly.

9. A Cobalt Blue sofa is the signature piece in this eclectic living room, found on Tile Tramp.

10. A simple yet festive Hanukkah table setting found on the Cote De Texas blog.

11. Ginger Cobalt Side Table from Crate & Barrel.

12. Set of 20 Shatterproof Christmas Ornaments in Cobalt Blue from Meijer.

13. KitchenAid's Artisan Mixer in Cobalt Blue available on Amazon.

14. Creatures A-Z Print in Cobalt Blue by Bond and Noble, available from Garrendenny Lane.

15. Recycled Glass Cobalt Blue 15 1/2" Star Dish by Traders & Company, available from Amazon.com.

16. Blue leather Howell Wingback Chair from Anthropologie.

17. Blue Wood Mantel Clock from West Elm, also available in 3 other colors.

Etsy Love: Baby Green Shop (again!)

2011-12-10T12:00:00.011-05:00

When I first highlighted my own Etsy Baby Green Shop, it was a brand new venture. Now that I've had some sales and posted new vintage items and baby baskets, I'm really starting to feel like part of the Etsy family. And just last week, The Huffington Post took notice and featured one of my new parents gift baskets. Ah, validation!! Their Gifts For A New Mom slideshow features 9 ideal Etsy finds for new parents, with one of my gift baskets as the opener.

An example of one of my baby gift baskets complete with a natural wooded toy, a handmade organic cotton baby bib, and two all-natural baby care products from the ShakleeBaby line (baskets start around $50 and all have customizable one-of-a-kind options).

One of my newer vintage additions: a half dozen 1960's Shafford 'Primitive Collection' Dessert Plates.
**NEW VINTAGE ITEMS WILL BE ADDED SOMETIME THIS WEEKEND!! PLEASE CHECK BACK!

This is a $30 Holiday Gift Basket that I made on request that is appropriate for just about anyone from co-workers to teachers. It includes an Enfuselle Lip Treatment SPF15, a Meadow Blend Soap-Free Cleansing Bar and an Herbal Blend Multi-Purpose Cream, all from Shaklee, in a gift-ready basket.

This Holiday Spa Basket is $60 and includes a luxuriously moisturizing Enfuselle Spa Shea Butter Cream, an all-natural Enfuselle Moisturizing Shower Gel, and a Loofah in a brown fabric bathroom organizer caddy.

**THE ABOVE TWO ITEMS ARE NOT AVAILABLE ON MY ETSY SHOP, SO PLEASE EMAIL ME AT ajm2727@gmail.com FOR ORDERING AND PRODUCT INFORMATION. CUSTOM GIFT BASKETS AT ANY PRICE POINT ARE ALSO AVAILABLE!!

Reclaimed Wood Part 2

2011-12-07T22:57:00.022-05:00

Last week, I put the spotlight on reclaimed wood tables fit for a season of holiday feasts, but in my searches I found so many inspiring applications of re-used timber for every surface of the house that I just had to share some of them.

Reclaimed wood kitchen counters from Natural Home and Garden.

A reclaimed wood clad wall found on House to Home/Living Etc.

The lobby of the Metropolitan Planning Council boasts a beautiful salvaged gate on the wall and reclaimed wood ceilings.

Beautiful reclaimed tongue and groove Ash flooring and vintage furnishings in an eco-friendly Flatiron loft I designed.

Salvaged sliding barn doors found on Apartment Therapy San Francisco.

Another barn door makes a natural backdrop for a modern baby's crib and the perfect mounting surface for lights (found on The Lil House That Could).

Reclaimed wood abound in the guest rooms of the Portland Ace Hotel.

A custom reclaimed wood grow light by Custom Made.

A table lamp made of reclaimed printing wood blocks, found on The Designer Insider.

A rustic reclaimed wood kitchen island found on Fresh Home Ideas only gains more character with nicks, scratches and stains.

This perfectly balanced bedroom features a reclaimed wood barn door painted a bold yellow and salvaged wood tagged with the word love as a headboard.

Monday Color: Pine Green

2011-12-05T22:55:00.040-05:00

I know, I know, it's getting a little ridiculous that I keep infusing my eco-principles into my Monday Color posts, but we all must draw our inspiration from somewhere, right? And I have mentioned a few times that I seem to be running out of colors to feature.

The hot topic around my house right now is whether or not to get a real Christmas tree. I'm opposed of course. Not against buying a tree that was farmed and cut for that purpose, but because of what happens to it after we enjoy it for a few weeks. Drive around most neighborhoods in early January on garbage day and you'll see piles of discarded trees bound for the landfill. That's not cool. But my six year old son wants a tree, so I'm obligated to at least consider the options. Real tree with roots and all that can be planted after the holidays? An artificial tree many feet taller than the puny one we had all the years we lived in the city that can be used again and again? A cut tree that we take to the chipper or other appropriate recycler in the new year? Or something 100% tree-free and totally creative? Of course I'm leaning toward the latter, but not having much luck swaying my little boy.

So, I'm just going to go ahead and embrace the mighty pine tree today, at least for this post (and because I may soon be welcoming one into my home). The green that I most associate with conifers of the Northeast where I'm from is a cold dark green with a tint of blue-gray in it, like the Douglas Fir, one of the most common species grown as Christmas trees. Pine Green has been an official Crayola Crayon color since 1949 - I did not know this! While other shades of green seem to be more popular in interiors, Pine Green is still a comforting, easy-to-live with hue. Read on to see more.....

Images above:

1. This bedroom found on Interior Design Styles features deep Pine Green painted woodwork with a lighter green and white palette throughout, complimented cheerfully with pops of salmon.

2. A deep Pine Green on lower cabinets lightens in the medium-toned backsplash and pales to a mint green on upper cabinets in this retro-country kitchen.

3. A dark Pine Green wall with turquoise swirls is balanced by bleached wood and lots of white.

4. A cozy dressing room found on housetohome.co.uk.

5. A deep green has an old-world feel on these floor-to-ceiling library shelves (from Katy Elliot).

6. Stunningly rich green tiles in a master bathroom look opulent but yet earthy (found on Attic Mag).

7. Pine Green is a classic home exterior trim color too.

8. Fine Little Day's Gran Wallpaper is available in 6 different color ways.

9. To add a little country kitsch, how about this Pine Tree End Table from Cottage Surroundings?

10. The Mason Jar Snow Globes from Anthropologie have an extra-nostalgic appeal.

11. A clever D.I.Y. holiday door mat from the geniuses at A Beautiful Mess.

12. A reproduction-style mailbox spray painted in Pine Green, as found on Country Living.

13. Glittered Christmas Tree Candle from Z Gallerie.

14. A modern pine print on the Marimekko Manty Green Gift Wrap from Crate & Barrel.

15. Colonial Mills Braided Poly Rectangular Rug in Dark Green; it's synthetic but that means it can be used indoors or out and the braided construction gives it textural interest.

16. Holiday Tree Coasters from Paizley Polkadot's Etsy Shop.

Reclaimed Wood Dining Tables

2011-11-29T23:59:00.013-05:00

With the holiday season well underway, it's family feast time!! If your dining table isn't standing up to your guest load, maybe it's time to consider a new one made from materials that aren't so new. Here's my round-up of reclaimed wood dining tables:

This Old Elm Trestle Table from Furniture Classics Ltd is made of reclaimed building-grade elm and left in its found, weathered, unfinished state for a one-of-a-kind table with history.

The Parsons Reclaimed Wood Top Dining Table from Crate & Barrel has a compact footprint and a modern, hot-rolled steel base that contrasts the reclaimed wood top beautifully.

C.G. Spark's Reclaimed Teak Wood Dining Table and Benches Set is the right size and durability for a lifetime of holiday feasts.

The feminine shape of this Reclaimed Wood Round Pedestal Table from Edie's Lab on Etsy is balanced by the rough-hewn planks of reclaimed southern pine.

The Vintage Farm Tool Rectangular Dining Tables from Restoration Hardware combine the character of vintage garden tools and the rustic look of reclaimed pine.

The Country Manor Table from Sundance is made from reclaimed wood, much of which still retains patches of colored paint from its original life as barn siding.

Monday Color: Matte Black

2011-11-28T22:53:00.018-05:00

Few could avoid the buzz of "black friday" last week. From the onslaught of promotional discount emails from every major retailer to the abundant news coverage, it seemed like the event of the year! I'm happy to say the only cash I shelled out last Friday was for a tank of gas.

But with the call of "black friday" in my face at every turn, I decided to pay an anti-tribute by featuring Black in today's Monday Color Post, but with a commitment to featuring only independently manufactured small-scale products after the beautiful inspiration rooms. Not a single Target product anywhere in sight. And because I've already featured the color Black, I'm focusing on its softer, gentler counterpart: Matte Black.

1) From an Apartment Therapy post on black kitchens, I'm smitten over this combination of Matte Black and tons of rustic wood.

2) The Matte Black walls in this room are soothing when paired with this much white and an abundance of nature-inspired elements.

3) Spotted on The Design Darling, these Matte Black paneled walls also get a shot of energy from lots of white and natural materials, with an extra dose from various reflective surfaces.

4) Matte Black is even an option for wallpaper lovers, as seen in this room found on Apartment Therapy San Francisco.

5) & 6) Although starkly different, I love both of these black-walled kids rooms from Oh Dee Doh equally: (5) a artistic minimalist approach and (6) one with lots of color and fun themes.

7) A daring black grasscloth-covered office from Desire to Inspire.

8) Mila Table Lamp in Black from Canvas.

9) For an inspiring round-up of Matte Black painted furniture, head to this Remodelista post, which includes tips on the best low VOC, acrylic latex paint to use on such a project.

10) A 20" x 30" map of the United States in hand-drawn white type on a matte black background (from Little Owl Designs on Etsy).

11) I love how black chalkboard paint modernized this old globe and gives it an interactive, wanderlust appeal to (found on The Stir).

12) Kontextur Tissue Cover in Matte Black, from Design Public.

13) An unbelievably affordable Matte Black Nightstand Cabinet from Aspen Country.

14) Large Carafe from Calypso Home.

15) Blu Dot's powder coated steel Totem Bookcase in Black, available at The Future Perfect, is the ideal size for storing vinyl records or large art books in a small unused corner.

Monday Color: Thanksgiving

2011-11-21T21:35:00.030-05:00

Yes, I know that Thanksgiving is not a color. But let's face it, I'm running low on single color choices (I think 2012 Monday Color posts will have to feature color pairings....woo too!), however when I close my eyes and think of Thanksgiving, there is definitely a palette of hues that comes to mind. It is this same essence of Thanksgiving that makes it my favorite holiday hands down....a warm glow of food and family and crackling fireplaces, flushed cheeks and full bellies, and the remaining glimpses of Autumn turning into Winter outside our windows. I've mentioned before that aside from the arguable history behind the tradition, I love Thanksgiving because it is one of few non-religious holidays that has no commercial agenda (unless you count the boom in poultry sales); you are not required to give cards or presents, or don a costume, you simply get together with family, sharing company and a deliciously endless feast. And to me, that's inspiring.

Images above:

1. Turkey decorations made from all-natural materials seen on All Home Decors.

2. An earthy seasonal table setting from Haute Living.

3. A beautiful farmhouse-style Thanksgiving found on Nice Home Decor (this look is going in my 'dream house' files for sure!).

4. I love the lighter Fall-inspired colors in this tablescape.

5. An inspiring example of last year's Hostess With the Mostess Thanksgiving entertaining and decor ideas.

6. A simple table setting with brilliant Fall leaves from Martha Stewart.

7. A beautifully simply bittersweet wreath.

8. Thanksgiving Stacking Boxes available from Terry's Village.

9. Warm, honey-colored Smoked Glassware from West Elm.

10. A dried Wheat Bundle from www.drieddecor.com

11. Add some earthy colored pattern to your living room or bed with the Ezra Pillow from Crate & Barrel.

12. Maize photographic print by James Linton Sain from Z Gallerie.

13. Toss some fallen branches into a rustic vase like this Clay Vase with Rattan Trim and your table is instantly Thanksgiving-ready.

Immunity Now!

2011-11-16T10:45:00.020-05:00

I'm starting to hear a lot of people mentioning a tickle in their throat, which means the weather is turning and cold season is upon us. The big pharmaceuticals would like us to line up for flu shots as a way to fend off the season's viral attacks (see image above), but there are equally effective natural immune-boosting foods and supplements that can keep you well all Winter long, no injections required.

For prevention, my #1 choice is Garlic. It might make me less kissable, but a diet rich in fresh anti-viral and anti-bacterial garlic has powerful combative powers against colds and flus. Chew up a whole garlic glove, steep it in boiling water and drink it like tea, or dice up a fresh clove over any dish. The allicin compound found in garlic is only potent for a short time after chopping, so eat it while it's fresh for the most beneficial affects.

If chomping on a whole garlic clove isn't your thing, consider getting a Winter's worth of this bug-fighter with Shaklee's Garlic Complex which combines the health benefits of garlic with the antioxidant properties of spearmint and rosemary.

Other trusted immune-boosting standbys are drinking 2-3 cups of Green Tea every day, increasing your water intake to flush out toxins, plenty of sleep (yeah, right!), and reducing dairy intake to combat the overproduction of mucus in the respiratory that it can cause, allowing a happy place for bacteria and viruses to grow.

And as many of us know by know, 80% of your immune system is located in your digestive system, so proper gut function is paramount in fending off colds and flus. If you don't already take a Probiotic daily, then consider adding one to your regimen throughout the Winter.

If a cold does start to set in, the lauric acid in coconut oil weakens the coating around many viruses and will shorten the duration of your cold. The body also converts the laurie acid to monolaurin which helps you fight a wide range of viruses and bacteria. It also has similar antibacterial and antioxidant properties to garlic, and is an incredibly beneficial oil if you are trying to reduce pounds or cholesterol. You can eat spoonfuls of straight coconut oil or use it to prepare numerous foods.

When you feel the first tickle, there are also a number of immune-boosting herbs to ingest right away that will increase your chances of beating that cold. Shaklee's Defend & Resist contains some key players: "Echinacea Purpurea to stimulate the body’s natural resistance, Black Elderberry to help maintain a healthy immune response, and Larch Tree to enhance immune support."

Monday Color: Corn

2011-11-14T23:35:00.040-05:00

Have I mentioned that Fall is my favorite season and how excited I am for Thanksgiving? OK, maybe just about in every post. But what can I say? This is my time of year! I sort of ignore the historical origins of the Thanksgiving holiday and embrace the fact that it's the one annual tradition for which we don't give Hallmark cards or a slue of presents.....we just come together with family and friends to enjoy life and eat great food. And when I think of Thanksgiving, I immediately think of my mother's corn pudding, specifically the slightly crispy burned corner piece I always manage to snag from the pan. It's pure edible heaven.

For today's Monday Color post, I thought I'd take corn out of my mother's Pyrex dish and into the home, exploring how the warm honey-toned yellow color of Corn can make a room more delicious too.

Images above:

1. I love the many golden hues in this room from Better Homes and Gardens (India) via Once Upon A Time.

2. A cornucopia of warm yellow accessories found on Decor Pad.

3. The corn-colored upholstery against these charcoal walls is a daring yet brilliant combination (via Hammers and High Heels).

4. No art required!!! These harvest-hued painted vintage frames bring enough character to any wall (found on Somthings).

5. A corn-colored room vignette found on Apt 528.

6. The vintage charm of a corn-colored sofa from Velvet Palette.

7. I adore the warm array of pillows, natural textures and the sunshine-infused rug in this Umbrian cottage found on The Style Files.

8. Corn, white and plenty of pattern make this bedroom feel inviting and sweet.

9. Just one serving of corn is plenty (like on this bed found on Involving Color).....wish I could remember that before heading back for 2nd and 3rd helpings next week!

10. These are going on my Christmas Wish List for sure!! Owl Measuring Cups in Yellow from West Elm.

11. Les Indiennes' eco-friendly Papillon fabric in Gold.

12. Combining the colors of earth and corn, the Akina Vase from Crate & Barrel would be a great way to introduce this color to any room.

13. Urban Outfitters Ziggy Chair in Yellow.

14. Coyuchi's organic cotton Bath Sheets in Mustard and 10 other sumptuous colors.

15. A great Thanksgiving decoration idea from good ole Martha: Glittered Corn!! For the how-to, click here.

16. These fingerless gloves aren't a home decor item per se, but the color is delicious and I'm very likely to wear them indoors with the drafts my little beach shack suffers from (from Etsy).

17. Schoolhouse Electric's Hamilton Bed in Industrial Yellow

Etsy Love: Gray Works

2011-11-12T16:12:00.010-05:00

With holiday entertaining season just around the corner, I wanted to share the beautiful platters, trays and cutting boards from Gray Works on today's Etsy Love post. Since 2006, the craftspeople at Gray Works have been using only locally and sustainably harvested or salvaged hardwoods for their designs, which are then lovingly hand-rubbed with organic olive oil for a product that is as ecologically friendly as it is lust-worthy. Feast your eyes on these (pun intended!):

Olive Platter

Spalted Maple Cutting Board

Little Garlic Chopping Block

Extra Large Walnut Serving Platter

Three-legged Salvaged Wood Milking Stools (various sizes available). Accommodate extra diners in style!!

And this is extra sweet: for $15, Gray Works will engrave your platter with any initials and date of your choice. For more details, click here.

A Worthy Cause.....

2011-11-11T11:35:00.008-05:00

Today is Veteran's Day here in the United States and even though I'm as anti-war as they come, I still have a deep respect for the courageous men and women who have fought in our armed forces throughout decades of wars. I was glued to the The History Channel's Vietnam in HD series last night for several hours (sobbing like a child through about half of it!) and learned that the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund is trying to raise money for an Education Center at the heart wrenchingly beautiful Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington DC (pictured above), collecting photographs of all the 58,000 men and women who died in this futile war, represented now in name only. All gifts to this fund pledged TODAY will be matched. Click here for more information.

To give aid to disabled veterans of all our history's wars, visit the site for the Disabled American Veteran Charitable Service Trust (given a high rating by Charity Navigator for appropriating funds directly to their cause).

Monday Color: Russet

2011-11-07T13:56:00.031-05:00

The leaves are changing colors rapidly, making me long to hit the open country road (in a Russet Brown MG Midget like the one above preferably!). Crisp Autumn air accompanies every nightfall. And the delights of Thanksgiving are just around the corner.

Fall, my favorite season, is most certainly in full swing!! And Russet, one of my favorite colors, is beginning to tinge everything around me, from holiday decor to the seasonal bounty at the Farmers Market to the Fall wardrobe staples I just unearthed in my closet. Feast your eyes on the many ways that Russet can warm up a whole room or just a table setting in my weekly color tribute below.

Images above:

1. A top-to-bottom Russet guest room for a model apartment I designed in Manhattan.

2. A living room designed by Vincente Wolf pairs warm Russet with cool slate blue.

3. The warm yellow walls of this bedroom are the perfect compliment to the Russet rug and abundant wood tones in this bedroom found on Martha Stewart.

4. Regal golds and Russet walls in a traditionally styled show house living room found on The Enchanted Home.

5. Coral and Russet abound in this bedroom found on Home Decor Walls.

6. The warm wood covering every surface of this sleeping quarters have a Russet glow (from Coastal Living).

7. An inspiring tablescape featuring Russet roses and pumpkin tea light holders, found on www.dreamweddingreceptions.com.

8. Available in 8x10, 11x14 or 16x20, this photograph called Russet and Peach Patched Building found on Etsy delivers a full spectrum of warm Russet hues.

9. Mikasa's Desert Breeze 4 Piece Place Setting from Bed Bath & Beyond.

10. Luster Russet Tones Rug by Calvin Klein (available at Macy's)

11. Criss Cross Glazed Garden Stool from Clayton Gray Home.

12. Solid Silk Hand Loomed Pillow Cover in Canteloupe (and 3 other neutral hues) from West Elm.

13. Antique Red Wuchow Three-Drawer File Console from Home Decorators.

Etsy Love: Yellow Bird Yellow Beard

2011-11-05T12:26:00.019-04:00

With the holidays quickly approaching, my mouth has already began watering for Thanksgiving feasts and Christmas cookies, but at the same time I can't help but feel my stomach churn over the upcoming season's wasteful decorations. In my house, we achieve a festively decorated look each year with found and recycled items, and use the same garland of LED Christmas lights that we've had for years. Plenty of Etsy shop crafters have the same notion, making gorgeous decorations out of recycled materials. So with this in mind, I plan on spotlighting eco-friendly holiday alternatives for the next few weeks, starting with the recycled paper and lovingly handmade creations I found on Yellow Bird Yellow Beard.

An earth-friendly decorative garland made from recycled take-out bags is the perfect accent for a Thanksgiving day with an earthy, vintage feel (I'm seeing a mantel place full of vintage glass bottles filled with grains and kernels of corn, lots of warm unscented soy candles burning and burlap placemats.....but that's just me!).

Although not made from recycled paper, this red and green garland puts me in the Christmas spirit in a way no plastic decoration ever will.

Plush Heart HO HO HO Christmas Tree Ornament.

For those local to the Southern California location of shop owner Janee Lookerse, this Recycled Book Pages Wreath is a modern alternative to a store-bought pine branch version that will simply be tossed in the trash come New Years Day.

And for handmade babies toys better than anything you would find in the sea of big box baby stores - like this adorable fabric giraffe - please check out Janee's second Etsy venture YBYB Toy Shop.

The White House and my white house.....

2011-11-04T07:22:00.016-04:00

A strange query entered my thoughts today, so I ran with it. What do The White House and my little humble white shack in Long Beach, NY have in common? Surprisingly, more than I thought.

1. Of course, they're both white.

2. They are both located on Pennsylvania Avenue.

3. They both need protection: sophisticated security systems, the Secret Service and the FBI protect The White House from myriad threats; blue painters tape protected my house during Irene (as shown in the image below).

4. The White House has a bowling alley and my long narrow living room has often doubled as a bowling alley for my 6 year old's enjoyment.

5. The White House's inhabitants have lived in the midwest and so have I.

6. Construction for The White House began in October and I was born in October (OK, that one is a stretch given the 200 or so years gap).

7. The White House has a movie theatre and an equally steady stream of NetFlix DVD's are viewed in the borrowed TV in my house (yes, another stretch).

8. Prone to monochromatic decorating, my house has a predominantly green room too (images below: the front room in my house and the historic Green Room at The White House in 1986).

9. Here's the final similarity.....drum roll please.....I use Shaklee's nontoxic, biodegradable Get Clean Basic H2 Organic Super Cleaning Concentrate in my house and so does The White House cleaning staff!! (Basic H2 is also used in the Vice President's residence, the only product endorsed by the Official Earth Day Committee and one of Oprah's "favorite things", as if Presidential usage wasn't accolade enough.)

Dangerous Venting

2011-11-03T17:18:00.023-04:00

There are a few distinct smells that waft through the neighborhood indicating exactly what the people inside a nearby home are up to: enjoying a winter fire, grilling up some burgers, doing the laundry. The latter is usually the aroma of scented fabric softening sheets churning about in a warm dryer load. It's an undeniably steamy, comforting smell but when you read about what's really being emitted out that vent, that "fresh" scent really starts to stink.

Today, I stumbled upon a post on re-nest that reveals the unfortunate findings of a new University of Washington study on fragranced laundry products. "The results found more than 25 VOCs emitted from dryer vents, with highest concentrations of acetaldehyde, acetone, and ethanol (two of which are considered carcinogenic). To put it in context, one of the carcinogenic VOC's, acetaldehyde, had emissions that would represent 3% of total acetaldehyde emissions from automobiles in the study area. That might not seem like a lot, but given how commonplace they are in homes, the findings are significant." The carcinogenic hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) found were acetaldehyde and benzene, to which there is no safe exposure level, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Professor Dr. Anne Steinemann who conducted the study pointed out that this is particularly alarming because dryer vents are completely unregulated, unlike smoke stacks or car exhaust pipes. And it goes without saying that not only are the VOC's being emitted into the air, but that chemical residues are being left on clothing and leaching into groundwaters which have their own ramifications. But that's a whole other post.

Personally, I'm grossed out by conventional scented laundry products with their overly perfumed "clean" scents. Every time clothes come back from my son's father's home that have been laundered with scented products, I have to immediately re-launder them because the stench is too strong to me. "Clean" really doesn't have a scent, and it certainly doesn't smell like soap or wildflowers. But this doesn't mean I don't love soft, clean clothes and linens!! So I pop a Get Clean Soft Fabric Fragrance Free Dryer Sheet (shown below) into every dryer load.....a completely nontoxic, biodegradable dryer sheet formulated from vegetable-based softeners. The re-nest post underscores this sentiment: dryer sheets aren't inherently bad, just chose unscented versions that are not made of synthetic or polyurethane foam materials to cut the harmful emissions.

Click here to read the complete Chemical Emissions from Residential Dryer Vents During Use of Fragranced Laundry Products Study.

Monday Color: Halloween Edition

2011-10-31T22:03:00.025-04:00

I must have uttered 'Happy Halloween!' 100 times on the trick-or-treating rounds I took with my son this evening. But deep down, Halloween is just not my thing. I don't know if it's a buried resentment since it regularly overshadows my birthday that falls just four days earlier. Or maybe I'm just not attracted to the idea of pretending to be anyone but me, even for a day or a few hours. Or maybe I'm just not creative enough to come up with a suitably clever costume. Whatever the reason, I'm a Halloween scrooge. And I'm perfectly OK with that.

But as is my usual practice with this blog, I am vowing to embrace those things in life that I resist. So I've gotten in the spirit and created a Halloween inspired Monday Color post, all Treats, no Tricks.....

Images above:

1. This dining room looks perfectly spooky dressed up in goth, found on Old Fashioned Lemonade.

2. Black and orange are not an aesthetically pleasing color combination to me, but these plates with an array of pumpkins and gourds evoke Halloween without the gag factor.

3. A brilliant Halloween party idea from, of course, Martha Stewart.

4. Even I may have to give this etched technique from Martha Stewart a try next year.

5. Another beauty from Martha Stewart: lace-patterned pumpkins carved free-hand!!

6. I adore the less serious approach of this string of Candy Corn-esque flags and kitschy glitter pumpkins.

7. A mostly orange bedroom with pops of black found on Design Dilemma .

8. A Halloween-themed front porch that still looks appealing the other 11 months of the year, found on a blog called Inspiration for Home.

9. Designer Courtney Giles toned down the black by subbing in charcoal on the walls and added the softest pumpkin accents in this beautiful bedroom.

10. A modern orange and black bedroom found on Le Vie....J'aime.

11. This chair by Moroso M'Afrique from ABC Carpet & Home looks unmistakably like a giant Candy Corn.

12. P'Kolino Orange Chalk Table, exclusively at Giggle.

13. Ooga Booga fabric from Art Fire.

14. A set of handmade vases in Halloween hues from Blue Room Pottery on Etsy.

15. A pumpkin and black toiles pattern by Manuel Canovas (Tortuga in Safran)

16. These Psychedelic Floral Plates from Amazon.com marry bold hues of orange and black with a rainbow of other 60's eras favorites.

17. Detail of Handmade Orange and Black Wool Textile Blanket, a photographic print by CIndy Miller Hopkins from Art.com

Monday Color: Denim

2011-10-24T23:18:00.026-04:00

Denim?!? "Is she running out of colors here?" you may be wondering. Sort of. But it's also my birthday week and I wanted to chose a color I love that is abundant in my own life, because from blog posts to birthday cake, this week is all about ME. :)

Anyone that knows me is aware that jeans are my daily uniform whether I'm working at home, fulfilling my multitude of mom duties, out for a night on the town, or meeting with clients (I was in fact once hired by a client to design his Soho loft because I was the only candidate that showed up in jeans). Aside from a pair of faded black jeans and a true gray stretchy pair, my jeans are all a medium to dark wash, the classic indigo that comes to my mind when I think of the original Levi's from the late 1800's (like the pair of 100 year old Levi's that were dug up from a California goldmine in the photo above).

1. Denim blue walls and earthy oatmeal seating make this media room extra cozy (from House Beautiful).

2. A montage of two beautiful blue-walled rooms from She Moves the Furniture.

3. A room from www.westelm.com featuring their Recycled Denim Jute Rug.

4. A bedroom full of blues and neutrals found on Room Envy.

5. A room from a Southampton beach house designed by Kim Coleman and Michelle Green, featuring a nautical map mural by artist Lori Barnaby (found on House Beautiful).

6. Found on a blog called LeMieux Maison, the rustic wood coffee table and the denim sofa are a match made in Amanda Style Heaven!!!

7. Here's the how-to for these DIY recycled denim coasters (great for anyone who consistently hems their jeans).

8. Recycled Denim Sunburst Wall Art by Through Cat Eyes.

9. Legend Blues creates eco-friendly custom furniture, like this chair, using your old pairs of jeans!!

10. Another recycled denim furniture option: Puglia Dining Chair by dBodhi

11. Woven Recycled Denim Cot by Siddharth Hirwani, found on Inhabitat.

12. Not exactly home decor since it's hidden behind your walls, but recycled denim insulation, like this example from Bonded Logic is an eco-friendly, fiber-glass-free way to keep your home temperatures under control.

13. This Covington Katana Woven Jacquard is the perfect mix of denim blues in a tribal ikat pattern.

14. Now, I should have some of these!! Customizable pencils made from a minimum of 20% recycled denim from manufacturers waste, available from Green Earth Office Supply.

15. In a perfect shade of blue, the Spolarium two-drawer side table by Celestina Maynila New York is sheathed in denim-hued Java lizard skin and available at Barneys New York.

Etsy Love: Yellow Plum Blossom

2011-10-22T20:11:00.006-04:00

This week's Etsy Love post highlights Yellow Plum Blossom, a South Dakota-based crafter's vision for unique, handmade baby gifts, many of which are fashioned from organic cotton or organic bamboo fleece. While not eco-friendly, I am especially delighted by the clever crayon rolls and adorable lunch bags.

The gift-ready Crayon Roll, includes 16 crayons and is currently available in 7 other equally adorable patterns.

Set of 3 Organic Baby Bibs with Polka Dots and Turtles

Organic Patchwork Blanket

Apples and Pears Children's Lunch Box

Organic Baby Gift Set features a 3-6 month onesie, a burp cloth, and a bib, both of which are backed with 100% certified organic bamboo fleece.

3 Sprouts Wall Organizers

2011-10-18T12:19:00.008-04:00

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of meeting the owners of Our Learning Environment, a new eco-friendly daycare center in Island Park, NY. Not only do they have a stellar educational backgrounds between them and a beautiful philosophy for their center, they also have great shopping taste!! I recently featured a 3 Sprouts organizing bin, but didn't know they also made these adorable Wall Organizers until one of the women whipped one out, found just last weekend in a Cape Cod boutique. I am smitten by not only the cuteness of these, but also the organizational habits they impart and their organic and recycled material content. 4 stars for 3 Sprouts!!

Monday Color: Pink

2011-10-17T22:59:00.027-04:00

With pink ribbons adorning everything from Tic Tac packages to NFL players this month, most everyone surely knows that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. So I thought it would be timely for today's Monday Color post to cover this awareness-raising, attention-grabbing pink hue. The issue surely hits home for me: my own mother courageously beat a case of breast cancer when I was a young girl. It is also estimated that 1 in 8 American woman will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, so this is hardly an issue to be ignored. But on a positive note, in 2010 there were more than 2.5 million breast cancer survivors, so it looks like the awareness, research, and abundant pink ribbons drawing attention to the cause is helping many of those affected to stay alive.

In interiors, pink is usually associated with little girls rooms and South Beach. But just as the color has made its way onto the uniforms of the burliest football players, I thought it was time to take a second look at pink's modern personality through the surprisingly pleasing and not-the-least tacky interiors and products below.

Images above:

1. The rustic furnishings in this dining room balance out the sophisticated but feminine pink wall covering.

2. This splash of pink on this sideboard is bold but doesn't overwhelm in an otherwise neutral setting.

3. & 4. Two images from a Barcelona home featured on Home Design Decor Plan.

5. The pink lower cabinets reinforce the sweet country style of this kitchen found on Home Interior Gallery.

6. Another kitchen with pink as more of a secondary accent color.....a little easier to live with in my opinion.

7. This Upper East Side living room features assorted jewel tones across the color wheel, including pinks that range from pale pink in the rug to a bright raspberry on throw pillows.

8. Saturated pink statement walls in a bedroom featured in Domino Magazine via Decor Pad.

9. Designed by Maxwell Macdonald and Andrew Corrie, the living room in this Shelter Island house uses denim blue and soft pink to create a laid-back feeling perfect for beach living.

10. Silk/cotton Ikat PIllow Cover from Fabricadabra.

11. Greenwich Side Table from Oomph in Eros Pink.

12. 24" x 36" Indian Bride Print from water color fashion illustrator Cate Parr.

13. Pink Motion switch plate from www.switchhits.com

14. Round Metal Chair in Pink from Burke Decor.

15. Pink Deer Skull and Antlers from Halles House Etsy Shop.

16. Edie Velvet Chaise in Fuchsia from Urban Outfitters.

Big Ticket & Budget Friendly: Dwell Studio Franklin Media Cabinet

2011-10-12T21:48:00.019-04:00

The design world is all abuzz over the new furniture line from Dwell Studio. From the spread featuring founder Christiane Lemieux's eastern Long Island beach house in the October issue of Lucky magazine to enthusiastic reviews in every corner of the blogosphere, Dwell Studio's new line is making quite an impact. And for good reason. From bold patterned fabrics to unique leafed finishes, the line puts a perfect spin on a classic form with almost every piece. Price points are actually quite reasonable, but let's face it, times are still hard for many of us (you know, us 99%!!), which has forever lowered the cutoff point for what counts as a "splurge" purchase. I took my favorite piece - a stunning sideboard priced around two thousand dollars - and paired it with budget-friendly spins on all the pieces found in Lemieux's own dining room, coming to a total bill of just under $3000 for the whole look.

Big Ticket Sideboard: $2040 Franklin Media Cabinet from the new Dwell Studio furniture line.

Budget-friendly table: $179 IKEA Doksta Table

Budget-friendly dining chair: $101.79 each Wood Chair with Hemp Seat from Overstock.

Budget-friendly rug: $129 Faux Bengal Tiger Skin Rug from Hollywood Love Rugs

Budget-friendly centerpiece: try an inexpensive DIY project like this one I found on Love and Lace Blog using just liquid gold leaf and some spray sealer. Echoing the beautiful gold leaf on the sideboard in the tabletop piece reinforces its presence (figure about $10 in materials and $10 for a discount store bowl to be painted).

Budget-friendly lamp: $169 Wood Knot Table Lamp from West Elm. I decided to forgo the multi-arm task lamp for something more sculptural that picks up the wood from the dining chairs and the darker tones in the faux tiger skin rug.

Budget-friendly candlesticks: sale price $32.95 Three Piece Bryce Candleholder Set from Crate & Barrel.

Storage Stars

2011-10-11T12:23:00.033-04:00

Whether you consider yourself an organized person or not, you're sure to have heard the old adage "a place for everything and everything in its place" at least once before in your life. It's a timeworn value that's very much alive in my house. But as both professional organizer and interior designer, the "place" must always be just as pretty as it practical.

My files live in 3 identical dark woven pandan boxes. My socks and underthings know only labeled canvas bins as their homes. Everything from the sporting equipment by my entryway to the cooking utensils in my kitchen to the Q-tips in my bathroom are all stored in appropriately sized wicker containers. Every functional storage piece I chose reflects my style and love of natural materials, is pretty to look at while serving its valuable purpose. Aside from in my attic where temperature and an imminent leak someday are factors, there are hardly any plastic tubs under my roof. (My one exception: OXO's BPA-free POP Containers for food staples like rice and pasta and for my son's markers and crayons. Plastic, yes, but still pretty cute.)

I'm pleased to see more aesthetically pleasing storage pieces on the market than ever before, for every style and taste, for children and adults alike. Function is just a given for these beauties.

Printed Canvas Storage Bins from Garnet Hill in 3 new patterns range from $28 - $48.

Handmade Senegalese Storage Baskets from Serena & Lily, on sale for $54 - $118 (shown in Aqua/Orange, also available in White/Natural, Pink and Blue).

Cargo Naturals File Box in Bluestone from Home Decorators is made from 100% recycled, post-consumer material and available in 3 other colors $36 (the collection also includes magazine butlers and boxes of various sizes).

Ikat Woven Storage Bins from West Elm range from $39 - $59.

Firenze Handbag Storage $21.99 and Open Bin $14.99, two styles from the somewhat preppy fabric-covered Firenze Storage Collection available at The Container Store.

Ikat Storage Stool $149 from Viva Terra.

Target Home Milk Crate in Paulowinia Wood $24.99 from Target.

Every healthy kitchen could use the organizational efficiency of this Farmers Market Epergne $75 from Sundance.

Patterned Storage Vanity Stool $79.99 from Bed, Bath & Beyond.

I prefer the original flea market version, but if you don't have the time to scour endless stalls, then these Industrial Baskets and Liners - Set of 3 $239 from Restoration Hardware Baby & Child are quite authentic looking.

Chalkboard Office Accessories from cb2 range from $4.50 - $39.95.

Mini Mountain Peaks Bath Basket $48 from Anthropologie is also available in two other shapes/sizes.

For adorable, handmade fabric baskets, head to Sewing Momma's Etsy shop for one-of-a-kind storage like this bin, pictured, $27.99.

A Tad Plaid Storage Baskets from Land of Nod are $49 for a set of 3 and are available in Pink Plaid or Blue Plaid.

3 Sprouts Organic Monkey Storage Bin in Yellow $39.99 from All Modern.

Trend Lab Baby Caterpillar Storage Bins - Set of 3 $47.99 from Kmart.

Monday Color: Chocolate Brown

2011-10-10T07:02:00.030-04:00

Was it the box of chocolates that arrived as October's gift-of-the-month from my generous older brother, whose annual Christmas gift ensures that some yummy treat, box of citrus, or pretty plant is left on my doorstep once a month? Or the fact that it's Columbus Day, a "holiday" on which no particular color comes to mind, only thoughts of the soil our ancestors robbed from the native inhabitants centuries ago. (Perhaps I shouldn't get into this.) Or maybe it's the onset of Autumn and its cornucopia of warm colors from the brown of the earth farmed for the last time of the year, the reds beginning to tinge the ends of leaves, and the golds of the changing light.

Whatever the reason.....today I hopped onto my laptop and decided to scour the internet for the richest, warmest, dark brown interiors and home goods I could find. I hope you find them as delicious as I do.

Images above:

1. I love the way the sheer white curtains, white carpet and massive white moldings keep this bedroom, found on www.creamylife.com from looking the least bit dark.

2. There's no question that the deep brown walls in this bedroom take backstage to the bold colors and patterns on just about every other surface (from Mix and Chic).

3. The chocolate brown accent wall makes the white furniture pop in this bedroom I designed.

4. Deep browns are the natural shade of many leathers and wood tones, as seen in the rich furnishings of shoe designer William Frawley's Soho apartment, featured on elledecor.com

5. A unique embossed brown wallpaper found on the Eclectic Revisited blog.

6. The interior of Omonia Bakery in New York was designed to look like the inside of a pastry.

7. An old Porsche 912 is one of the few automobiles that actually looks good in dark brown.

8. Venturing into more traditional styles, recycled materials and quality textiles, West Elm's Essex Sofa is stocked in a warm brown leather.

9. The Safari Rug adds a wild side to any room with its giraffe-inspired pattern of chocolate brown with cream accents

10. Robert Abbey Dark Brown Ceramic and Silver Table Lamp from Lamps Plus.

11. Dwell's Chocolate Dots Crib Set has always been one of my favorite gender-neutral baby bedding choices.

12. 100% bamboo makes this Chocolate Towel Set from www.bambeco.com both eco-friendly and design savvy.

13. The warm brown in sepia toned photographs and a nostalgic vintage typewriter are an unexpected combination on a white pillow (from Z Gallerie).

Etsy Love: The Lavender Tree

2011-10-08T10:05:00.015-04:00

Sweaters aren't made like they used to be. I often find that one season's wear results in a worn-out pilled garment ready for the giveaway box. And while I have stored away two sentimental baby blankets, the rest did not stand up to the test of spit up or playground dirt, landing in the same "out" pile time after time. What is the fate of these textiles after they've been well-loved and worn out? Wisconsin-based Ann Tucker has found a crafty solution, turning wool sweaters, jackets and blankets found in thrift stores into pillows, pin cushions and a slue of other decorative items that are as adorable as they are environmentally conscious for her Etsy shop Lavender Tree.

The cute-as-can-be Bird Pillow is made from recycled felted wool sweaters and blankets.

Several own key chains, like this one, make an affordable but practical eco-friendly gift at $7.00.

The Flower Pillow 5 is, you guessed it, made from a recycled felted wool blanket and salvaged wool sweater scraps.

This recycled and felted wool sweater Strawberry Pin Cushion reminds me of a berry shaped pin cushion I had when I was a little girl.

Although Lavender Tree offerings are mostly made of recycled wool, these Recycled Rag Rug Heart Ornaments are an adorable exception.

Sending a message.....

2011-10-06T23:46:00.004-04:00

I love that fellow moms come up to me on the playground of my son's school after pick-up with news of their latest "green" discoveries!! I'm not the mom to go to for celebrity gossip or confirmation of the events on the school calendar.....I am the tree-hugger, modern hippie, environmentally-conscious single mom on a mission, sans the smell of patchouli. Today, my friend reported that the US Postal Service offered a "Go Green" stamp booklet. Eek!! Even though most of my bill paying is paperless, I still use the occasional stamp, so I marched off the post office and bought myself several booklets of these statement Forever Stamps. They were released in April, but as they say, better late than never.....

The Go Green stamps illustrate little daily steps every average Joe can take to help rescue our beautiful planet. And they're pretty darn cute too. Here's what the USPS site has to say about them: "Go Green, a pane of 16 stamps, is the Postal Service's social awareness issue for 2011. Award-winning animator, filmmaker, and illustrator Eli Noyes worked with Art Director Derry Noyes on his first stamp project, using a colorful, playful style to convey the message that every American can take simple actions to conserve energy and improve the environment. These Forever stamps are always equal in value to the current First-Class Mail one-ounce rate."

Stock up on the Go Green Forever Stamps, that are always equal to the going rate on a first class stamp, here.