Home Ideas - Modern Home Design

Congratulations goes to ...

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYvhr-dTjQBCRK9EdRRoXiXBdM_WamLZ3JYhM_HOfxOCY4HHC9dkv2gw9OqsDz8w47I82mFJtrrWcRE_kSCpPJ9pIQ6AetsKdoGwDz1orVuVVXLp_piKNENYZNzdEaN09WETUJ1Ioextc/s1600/embroideredsanddollar.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470501152036538450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYvhr-dTjQBCRK9EdRRoXiXBdM_WamLZ3JYhM_HOfxOCY4HHC9dkv2gw9OqsDz8w47I82mFJtrrWcRE_kSCpPJ9pIQ6AetsKdoGwDz1orVuVVXLp_piKNENYZNzdEaN09WETUJ1Ioextc/s320/embroideredsanddollar.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 318px; height: 320px;" /></a> <div style="text-align: center;">Jamilyn of <a href="http://liveitathome.blogspot.com/">Living it at Home</a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgfkpvuOhyKfJhS5lu6o1fAP2fLu-otRiDya8tqQ1suagrIfiqSwaqUV3sFS00YQGzEvEd-YNB3GTZHDlcb4r02bDcT181W38Wmp0adsI8EBnlyKHZDCLsi_o2_Z2bJD0uiAgDzyf3W4s/s1600/beachbagondoor.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470500772360781762" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgfkpvuOhyKfJhS5lu6o1fAP2fLu-otRiDya8tqQ1suagrIfiqSwaqUV3sFS00YQGzEvEd-YNB3GTZHDlcb4r02bDcT181W38Wmp0adsI8EBnlyKHZDCLsi_o2_Z2bJD0uiAgDzyf3W4s/s400/beachbagondoor.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" /></a> You are the lucky winner of my <a href="http://designvignettes.blogspot.com/2010/05/beach-bag-giveaway.html">Beach Bag & Towel Giveaway</a> (please email your mailing address to yblacker@verizon.net and I will send it your way!) I hope you enjoy this custom designed beach bag from my collection of seaside inspired pieces along with the matching beach towel that I picked up at HomeGoods. You certainly deserve a relaxing and sunny day by the sea after all the housecleaning you have been doing lately (visit her charming blog to read about her new motivational system to <a href="http://liveitathome.blogspot.com/2010/05/happy-mothers-day-mean-cleaning-tourday.html">tackle dust bunny removal</a>, etc.!) As soon as I am done setting up my room for the <a href="http://www.wenhammuseum.org/adults_programs.html">North Shore Design Show</a>, I will try to follow your “get clean” tips. Right now my home looks like a tornado went through it (or Hurricane Yvonne : ) My room at the Wenham Musuem, however, is looking very put together ... <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_rWqgR6F8Ql7cm1Rk3UNInQqTaFdNhhzNKmS8mMoxdBts6otc10KCSmt2_hSDJ5GdZBy9IilM7EakhwCVDBFRnOnKf-75dNyrgpzg6ZhIYBftmoJ5D8_ifVx1Kuz2cXU9e397pbsyBrE/s1600/doorwaytoroom.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470506949800719090" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_rWqgR6F8Ql7cm1Rk3UNInQqTaFdNhhzNKmS8mMoxdBts6otc10KCSmt2_hSDJ5GdZBy9IilM7EakhwCVDBFRnOnKf-75dNyrgpzg6ZhIYBftmoJ5D8_ifVx1Kuz2cXU9e397pbsyBrE/s400/doorwaytoroom.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 198px; height: 400px;" /></a> This closet door is actually part of a wall that we constructed (hubby and I) to create the one freestanding wall of my 8 x 8 foot space. I tried to create a nice backside view for my neighbor, designer Nanette Chandler of Brookline, who is right beside me. Her space looks so pretty, with beautiful textures and soft colors. I look forward to chatting with her more on Friday night over a drink or two as we show off our spaces to Gala guests. Here is a glimpse of what my room looks like behind this door ... <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRoAiACR1Z_5B-dgb8cS4tc5QnYC1g3si7LgbhdgN3OZHaB2QJmJRRNtLyuTvo6CrHeDiq8VG88-AmIgH_2du_cMAaOVRXkSMXOKWK5FD-JhYGQyHtt3Y4xPgBtLmX44XhXCNcPWMzeBo/s1600/chairwithkey.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470507605717481106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRoAiACR1Z_5B-dgb8cS4tc5QnYC1g3si7LgbhdgN3OZHaB2QJmJRRNtLyuTvo6CrHeDiq8VG88-AmIgH_2du_cMAaOVRXkSMXOKWK5FD-JhYGQyHtt3Y4xPgBtLmX44XhXCNcPWMzeBo/s400/chairwithkey.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 305px; height: 400px;" /></a> You will have to come visit to see the rest! Setting up for a design show reminds me of moving in to my dorm as a BC freshman ... I remember showing up with a car full of mostly decorative (and some functional) objects that I had carefully selected for an entire summer, all the while crossing my fingers hoping that my roommate was cool and her stuff wouldn’t clash with mine. Fortunately, all of my roommates at the show have a great eye for design. I was not so lucky that first year as an undergrad! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFHod2_2dNU4dwUab7L5eeIlTIVek2uuuIvpO_I55-Ix9Tf8_ERSxISf-Fwsn8_eEy-52Q0DNTVEoG5HOSuEJi0K9oWExFXGxDo34LyYqAw0rkzJQ2LIYMeQmZ3eFgKevdkvct140HMEA/s1600/blackcowlight.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470501050552982978" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFHod2_2dNU4dwUab7L5eeIlTIVek2uuuIvpO_I55-Ix9Tf8_ERSxISf-Fwsn8_eEy-52Q0DNTVEoG5HOSuEJi0K9oWExFXGxDo34LyYqAw0rkzJQ2LIYMeQmZ3eFgKevdkvct140HMEA/s400/blackcowlight.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" /></a> After our first day of setting up, my assistant and I (thankfully my husband knows a thing or two about construction!) headed over to <a href="http://www.blackcowrestaurants.com/menu_hmltn_lunch.html">The Black Cow</a> for lunch. I had the crab cakes and he had a huge plate of steak and potatoes which was a very good choice since I am way too busy to prepare “real meals” this week! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGmV_4e-WV2eFHe-gxqYTUL3-wnt9MYXVnpLKXA9rv1TtC0VEKQQrYI9nybTYpQd4z_0j1Rz7BybZ01qC1QyETZN1oM8CbKeJN29pVF1l78tQFK0joZxRdmRy0bPOV9R3D20-BegPHxoU/s1600/moocards.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470501031338857714" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGmV_4e-WV2eFHe-gxqYTUL3-wnt9MYXVnpLKXA9rv1TtC0VEKQQrYI9nybTYpQd4z_0j1Rz7BybZ01qC1QyETZN1oM8CbKeJN29pVF1l78tQFK0joZxRdmRy0bPOV9R3D20-BegPHxoU/s400/moocards.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 304px;" /></a> When we returned home, my first set of <a href="http://designvignettes.blogspot.com/2009/11/blogging-and-graphic-design.html">Mini Moo Cards</a> had arrived! They show my blog address on one side and this picture on the other ... <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLMouH017Y0qj94m-5Dcdlfi11Hab3EJMzU-Rzo7OZwqxTNa4FBspjpaBIsVgfIyfA6yt8JfJXeC03-ivb4vUkVJQdHBDAxLv_YkDdnX-HjiW4itoJshme7W4S-y0TAOLiJ5gR_S3-4lU/s1600/YBlackerPencilCupSm.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470519098183625170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLMouH017Y0qj94m-5Dcdlfi11Hab3EJMzU-Rzo7OZwqxTNa4FBspjpaBIsVgfIyfA6yt8JfJXeC03-ivb4vUkVJQdHBDAxLv_YkDdnX-HjiW4itoJshme7W4S-y0TAOLiJ5gR_S3-4lU/s200/YBlackerPencilCupSm.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 159px; height: 200px;" /></a> Today we headed over bright and early to finish the construction part of my space, and then I styled it after John left. My mom stopped by later to drop off window treatments that I had forgotten at home (a slight glitch!), I met some more nice neighbors, chatted with the amazing women who “run the show” at the Wenham museum, and left with just a small punch list of to-do’s. I figure one more trip and I should be all set (I still have a couple of DIY items to finish up at home). Then it is on to finding the perfect gala outfit (thanks to <a href="http://www.agreatnewlook.com/">fashion coach Susan Kanoff</a>, I know where I will be heading to look!) More to come ... And a special thanks goes to Dot LaPlante and Lorna Lupi for expertly weaving the new chair seat shown in the sneak peek photo above (amazing!) If you have furniture pieces that have seen better days, bring them to these talented women! They are at: Pentucket Furniture Restoration 226 Water Street, Haverhill, MA 01830 pentucketfurniture@verizon.net phone: 1-978-372-9585 </div>

Congratulations goes to ...

Jamilyn of Living it at Home You are the lucky winner of my Beach Bag & Towel Giveaway (please email your mailing address to yblacker@v...

3:45 PM

Spring doorway

<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPA0VXur_8EB7t63a4i_1oSg8nJaY7SLprORkKcU8u5-wQdT-AglXNSMLPAmSmzEbXgj2aWjP0leZYHSL1YeRAHqVywUBcnFlT22_aMtubYAv5joitQ84gOeVjxzGP5ohooXLBU8aLl2I/s1600/reddoorwhitewreath.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469985614211802482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPA0VXur_8EB7t63a4i_1oSg8nJaY7SLprORkKcU8u5-wQdT-AglXNSMLPAmSmzEbXgj2aWjP0leZYHSL1YeRAHqVywUBcnFlT22_aMtubYAv5joitQ84gOeVjxzGP5ohooXLBU8aLl2I/s400/reddoorwhitewreath.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 350px;" /></a> I recently made this spring wreath for a client to adorn the front door of her red, white and blue porch. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDvBvLJm9jafXC_t-U2zuk-rTGsztTFUxXpQZfmBxERImSEc5k2rRg5jRqiZV0QsmLbXXqafK7qEIYc_Sz7w95__BCKdGL82hsUfbbvw420QvD-cfLBOBq2TTdLOD02vbikxJiMxw7uHM/s1600/blueceilingreddoor.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469985610203946754" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDvBvLJm9jafXC_t-U2zuk-rTGsztTFUxXpQZfmBxERImSEc5k2rRg5jRqiZV0QsmLbXXqafK7qEIYc_Sz7w95__BCKdGL82hsUfbbvw420QvD-cfLBOBq2TTdLOD02vbikxJiMxw7uHM/s400/blueceilingreddoor.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 305px; height: 400px;" /></a> The sky blue painted ceiling is a favorite of mine, whether done outside on a porch or inside like we did on our first nursery ceiling (I heard it makes babies smarter to look at a colored ceiling!) </div><a href="http://designvignettes.blogspot.com/2010/05/beach-bag-giveaway.html" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469987363625772226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxnOJfDRVnCNnNzx9imFrZ2irF3qzTTpHo7J1n1VSRkBsGS3N6ZprETkGXWZECuNn2AMUG9F9SWpiy18dgBjsU32hOWWyyKbphzS24_90nWSfBKZCAgwVndYeTPslCq4_t-3MvU3K2Jt8/s400/beachbagbanner.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 171px;" /></a> <div style="text-align: center;">Today’s post is a short one since I am heading over to begin setting up for the <a href="http://www.wenhammuseum.org/adults_programs.html">North Shore Design Show</a> at the Wenham Museum. While I am away, don’t forget to enter my <a href="http://designvignettes.blogspot.com/2010/05/beach-bag-giveaway.html">beach bag giveaway</a> ... I will be announcing the winner tomorrow! </div>

Spring doorway

I recently made this spring wreath for a client to adorn the front door of her red, white and blue porch. The sky blue painted ceiling is a ...

5:25 AM

How does your garden grow?

<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihbjdxITgH9tqiQNWxRg3bX4_XwWnbuyr2MKXsg0g5j-mvpT7dJXHiTBWzMum9LGp-6g3jkd7OGY-aCV-EBWLGahxVGq3jwFvygZvDQojb60WBCKCBvjyti8KcDxvNLuHUpHCzMpBkzOI/s1600/bleedingheart.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469624247497387170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihbjdxITgH9tqiQNWxRg3bX4_XwWnbuyr2MKXsg0g5j-mvpT7dJXHiTBWzMum9LGp-6g3jkd7OGY-aCV-EBWLGahxVGq3jwFvygZvDQojb60WBCKCBvjyti8KcDxvNLuHUpHCzMpBkzOI/s400/bleedingheart.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" /></a>Fernleaf Pink Bleeding Heart </div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUtJQfYLTtXqt_WZX0Dsdpz8yEH5h5pQ8JH907qXnH7z0FilJhzIDA_d0qrE7l6UMlm5I0p6wRgcCVAZ5RtCrv4nCZZNkg2w-2v0sTnEsHE0Ds1yo_-yBjnfqecW4DX716WXJYJ0sd0O0/s1600/plantauctionbanner.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"> </a><div style="text-align: center;">Here are some photos from my perennial gardens taken this morning. Most of these plants were given to me from friends and family, or were purchased at the annual Plant Auction held by the Village Garden Club of Lynnfield. This year, my garden is starting to look well established. That is what I love about perennials, each year you get more than you started with! What other purchase gives you that type of return on your investment??? Once I get to my weeding, I will show photos of the entire garden ; ) </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUMjbhMkS7ICwkngp6cJtlsJ6FwEO4yjUKE8Zdx7likDXpAyxm2vhjwwPi2mP3v0NoZK7CIsoA7KgTRQyhRjOIXjIypW52OxPItk5A17M6N9Kb9PDMkmskVuzVqqVNAnnkU19bIbi4ug4/s1600/solomonsseal.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469622656485591282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUMjbhMkS7ICwkngp6cJtlsJ6FwEO4yjUKE8Zdx7likDXpAyxm2vhjwwPi2mP3v0NoZK7CIsoA7KgTRQyhRjOIXjIypW52OxPItk5A17M6N9Kb9PDMkmskVuzVqqVNAnnkU19bIbi4ug4/s400/solomonsseal.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></a>Solomon’s Seal <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw9PhQ-ZBYursSSnK4AqqTM23ANj5p1Omvd7NW-unUF56bgei3ltPYFrNuAuW_9cNOUJPBWO7BRYfR82wRXjKvIKapN8XjskstpJj1Jdh0yJF9pYBEyGdF8RJmTxuTCmz6l5AvsxnWsmE/s1600/pinkblossoms.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469622652614921058" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw9PhQ-ZBYursSSnK4AqqTM23ANj5p1Omvd7NW-unUF56bgei3ltPYFrNuAuW_9cNOUJPBWO7BRYfR82wRXjKvIKapN8XjskstpJj1Jdh0yJF9pYBEyGdF8RJmTxuTCmz6l5AvsxnWsmE/s400/pinkblossoms.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></a>Azalea </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhssnfgujBCiz6hoI0k5jSVyx9LZy_A3pJknae1yszcytJA0XGmyN9-jufBENZiaabraVNMoLlRVp_a5KK6XbIk4b00NcCCIdLAlc1FJ9w3B8ik_A8F-ugy7A2aoFMpNh1f5eCdBhwrF5U/s1600/hostas.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469622640424365170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhssnfgujBCiz6hoI0k5jSVyx9LZy_A3pJknae1yszcytJA0XGmyN9-jufBENZiaabraVNMoLlRVp_a5KK6XbIk4b00NcCCIdLAlc1FJ9w3B8ik_A8F-ugy7A2aoFMpNh1f5eCdBhwrF5U/s400/hostas.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" /></a>Hosta: Blue Elegans </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkB8CqhBFjyhoFgPjq-5VsDxOwlJI5bGBnqGIBBk67rBm4o37JHsF_RgCDODp2AhLzbmrb7HYRztVUh0dQVSsyx3ZFW2r7tySXru0UDgq1QG9Dz86RgwE8TiYWqh2IJme6jdw4FF2_MnQ/s1600/chives.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469622633708688050" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkB8CqhBFjyhoFgPjq-5VsDxOwlJI5bGBnqGIBBk67rBm4o37JHsF_RgCDODp2AhLzbmrb7HYRztVUh0dQVSsyx3ZFW2r7tySXru0UDgq1QG9Dz86RgwE8TiYWqh2IJme6jdw4FF2_MnQ/s400/chives.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" /></a>Chives <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3RS8FGN3QqfKlIyftnavGau3Zj6kGmR5vXXcKtMG_3wA6GDrkz2EB8tqbmNFW5MFdxHApEbIH6k7-6m9WLjpZ5JUElC4_wEkNhXAFU66uYlpL5oIl_YVzMlPwwWSlMtOSj-McT1MU3P8/s1600/birdhouse.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469629181682410146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3RS8FGN3QqfKlIyftnavGau3Zj6kGmR5vXXcKtMG_3wA6GDrkz2EB8tqbmNFW5MFdxHApEbIH6k7-6m9WLjpZ5JUElC4_wEkNhXAFU66uYlpL5oIl_YVzMlPwwWSlMtOSj-McT1MU3P8/s400/birdhouse.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 372px;" /></a> We noticed yesterday that a bird has built her nest in our birdhouse. I will try to get closeups of the babies when they hatch! </div> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUtJQfYLTtXqt_WZX0Dsdpz8yEH5h5pQ8JH907qXnH7z0FilJhzIDA_d0qrE7l6UMlm5I0p6wRgcCVAZ5RtCrv4nCZZNkg2w-2v0sTnEsHE0Ds1yo_-yBjnfqecW4DX716WXJYJ0sd0O0/s1600/plantauctionbanner.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh2yjzX8firhyphenhyphenNryg6nRLJ57OVreKm3BhD2SJoQTzdWxT5v4qH2xgnJATwcX-mSO8pmAmGxA47OXqww65MQ_CWB0x_PH8WlE6o66DtT07UuNS11C-zV81YeJGpF0eNrEYXJXZw5428nCY/s1600/plant+auction.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469625522858697266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh2yjzX8firhyphenhyphenNryg6nRLJ57OVreKm3BhD2SJoQTzdWxT5v4qH2xgnJATwcX-mSO8pmAmGxA47OXqww65MQ_CWB0x_PH8WlE6o66DtT07UuNS11C-zV81YeJGpF0eNrEYXJXZw5428nCY/s400/plant+auction.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw9PhQ-ZBYursSSnK4AqqTM23ANj5p1Omvd7NW-unUF56bgei3ltPYFrNuAuW_9cNOUJPBWO7BRYfR82wRXjKvIKapN8XjskstpJj1Jdh0yJF9pYBEyGdF8RJmTxuTCmz6l5AvsxnWsmE/s1600/pinkblossoms.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><div style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold;">Perennial Plant Auction </div><div style="text-align: center;"> Presented by the Village Garden Club of Lynnfield Monday, May 10th at 7:30pm to 9pm at the Lynnfield Meeting House (on the common across from the Lynnfield Library) Take home mature perennials at great prices! Refreshments will be served. Happy gardening! <a href="http://designvignettes.blogspot.com/2010/05/beach-bag-giveaway.html" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469631015552870498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZaOrefclgpl0qo4PCTgG-ByC3pblAcOHH8JBI860s1rPvw5CnFqTcOYwPmVoNdF7Afa8g5Ebz41zqWlQ8rGdvGS3465xgZR89he2TKWjlfJAyeawI41kRFVBbLHgN1UICXFw6IgrMgKE/s400/beachbagbanner.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 171px;" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw9PhQ-ZBYursSSnK4AqqTM23ANj5p1Omvd7NW-unUF56bgei3ltPYFrNuAuW_9cNOUJPBWO7BRYfR82wRXjKvIKapN8XjskstpJj1Jdh0yJF9pYBEyGdF8RJmTxuTCmz6l5AvsxnWsmE/s1600/pinkblossoms.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"> </a> </div>

How does your garden grow?

Fernleaf Pink Bleeding Heart Here are some photos from my perennial gardens taken this morning. Most of these plants were given to me from f...

6:15 AM

Setting the stage for a design show

<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_nE68VdJzhmI63ArRIn9x_z3khcvcyCVURI0dlJiEdwdVAf_zSXmWJPlOS5eSVFC6RD912uGMy36X5tF1X-y1aEIqXX5yCOTf5UymgeJAzkYG6X6Un2Ml_R-eWtroExHjnNCYLGP09rI/s1600/firstrugsimage.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468004762305898146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_nE68VdJzhmI63ArRIn9x_z3khcvcyCVURI0dlJiEdwdVAf_zSXmWJPlOS5eSVFC6RD912uGMy36X5tF1X-y1aEIqXX5yCOTf5UymgeJAzkYG6X6Un2Ml_R-eWtroExHjnNCYLGP09rI/s400/firstrugsimage.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 292px; height: 400px;" /></a>Mary Donovan and Luis Munoz of <a href="http://firstrugs.com/html/our_services.html">First Oriental Rugs</a> </div> <div style="text-align: center;">Things are moving right along as I head toward the final stages of preparation for my participation in the <a href="http://www.wenhammuseum.org/adults_programs.html">North Shore Design Show: Favorite Spaces</a> at the Wenham Museum. Next week I will be setting up my 8 x 8 foot space ... the show opens on Friday (big gala event to look forward that I need to find an outfit for!) I will also need a small moving van for all my pieces and props that I have collected for the show! Fortunately, some of the larger pieces will be delivered like the carpet I chose at <a href="http://firstrugs.com/html/about_us.html">First Oriental Rugs</a> in Danvers. Gallery Manager Mary Donovan (who has graciously assisted me with carpet inquiries in the past) and Luis Munoz, Head Showroom Assistant (who FYI is “the general miracle worker on staff”) were extremely helpful this week as we pulled many samples from their extensive collection of fine rugs. After looking at some gorgeous selections, I made my decision. Below are a few that I loved, but the final choice will be a surprise! </div> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHkOfkIi_9aRN1aXHwDY5XB6JkfJbAkBhIqEldp9aJLqpmscM4k9n_Lpcx_TRm3F1-J6IXraJWwb0bqjJ9WYzoECC_Lr9HUSPRWpa8dqnBe2BZ9a0wcdzMGGh8vkoGoxyAcSOC0XQYk6o/s1600/3carpets.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468004747052734434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHkOfkIi_9aRN1aXHwDY5XB6JkfJbAkBhIqEldp9aJLqpmscM4k9n_Lpcx_TRm3F1-J6IXraJWwb0bqjJ9WYzoECC_Lr9HUSPRWpa8dqnBe2BZ9a0wcdzMGGh8vkoGoxyAcSOC0XQYk6o/s400/3carpets.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></a> <div style="text-align: center;">Thank you Mary and Luis for your professional assistance and advice! </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguFswF7ISbgfkhlRDmocKdxfHGDN2-I_BBXY7UTZ6qvBkS1IKpSGWLZ1fNUp7tN_x37B7IXhjQX_qz0kzvIhKioOvONBXQlDIaq7MsuySShNVBX4km5GtTCK5mJolKFu3HACxCBc_w5Cc/s1600/mirrorb4.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468504827581698034" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguFswF7ISbgfkhlRDmocKdxfHGDN2-I_BBXY7UTZ6qvBkS1IKpSGWLZ1fNUp7tN_x37B7IXhjQX_qz0kzvIhKioOvONBXQlDIaq7MsuySShNVBX4km5GtTCK5mJolKFu3HACxCBc_w5Cc/s400/mirrorb4.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></a> If you have been wondering what ever happened to my <a href="http://designvignettes.blogspot.com/2010/01/master-bedroom-preview-part-2.html">master bedroom renovation</a> ... I have completely taken over the trimmed, prepped and primed space to use as my workroom for the show (the broken mirror above and lots of furniture pieces are currently being transformed in there). It is so nice to work in a white space with no visual distractions! After the show, we will finish painting this room, add carpet, etc. But first things first, right? </div> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJibVUopD5tgs77p1GYgi7VeZVL6RRJBOSlket4buWaqgf_8bhJpslMOyXw-8zqgsI9L0-ZRY6jo2xRhYRyh8VC0H1JMHUFCrRuZSylYAnHkD6lf4Wzb0BLNrwwIvOazoK5wClQHAoN1A/s1600/blackwallpapersample.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468508949965622082" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJibVUopD5tgs77p1GYgi7VeZVL6RRJBOSlket4buWaqgf_8bhJpslMOyXw-8zqgsI9L0-ZRY6jo2xRhYRyh8VC0H1JMHUFCrRuZSylYAnHkD6lf4Wzb0BLNrwwIvOazoK5wClQHAoN1A/s400/blackwallpapersample.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 238px;" /></a> <div style="text-align: center;">Here is a sneak peek of a bit of wallpaper that arrived safely from overseas. </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhodmEN_WqK6lTdK52YEjh2GAi3Spcet1LW5FYpzN4xlOMDd3Yru99dGhPU6vTXLezQxLEjYLJMu4uIqLxRQCOEnnZxKRrqCyJSLqQgzO8JwZisx5QDfj2KdGsgaUEEW-xnbpYYpVuQzrc/s1600/cb2pkg.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468505066582413874" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhodmEN_WqK6lTdK52YEjh2GAi3Spcet1LW5FYpzN4xlOMDd3Yru99dGhPU6vTXLezQxLEjYLJMu4uIqLxRQCOEnnZxKRrqCyJSLqQgzO8JwZisx5QDfj2KdGsgaUEEW-xnbpYYpVuQzrc/s320/cb2pkg.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a> Some of my favorite items were delivered yesterday from <a href="http://www.cb2.com/">cb2</a>. In this box are some pretty cool items! Stay tuned for final previews next week! </div><div style="text-align: center;">Please visit sponsor <a href="http://www.threadscouture.com/Home_Page.php">Threads Couture</a> ... </div> <a href="http://www.threadscouture.com/Home_Page.php" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468506034067798898" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc59pOpAfSI-SJ3KIKS1yn-b_tynCpDbLF8uHmkct0yFbzRLdQFLKezyR-vzPU1OXUaHvAmhu6lXtid-dP1ytxsgQA8XNEUrMXuWxXGEw7-OjSqFxE31XwMGVxBdKSBvrbhnQBBOo_kmg/s400/threadsbanner-SE.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 143px;" /></a>

Setting the stage for a design show

Mary Donovan and Luis Munoz of First Oriental Rugs Things are moving right along as I head toward the final stages of preparation for my par...

6:15 AM

Cool item of the week ...

<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUUZlCRYdcxDU5e03BbAU1hufD9tygknRsBuigAaipetNELaUpGm_tGKst_H2o2RUcvwAXKJrelWq3CxHs4UXriDeNtqHnReha_cOY0M9ov67HOp7BxCDHJscyHyFcatxN7-qm-r2bmw8/s1600/cooltableHG.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468165721852829186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUUZlCRYdcxDU5e03BbAU1hufD9tygknRsBuigAaipetNELaUpGm_tGKst_H2o2RUcvwAXKJrelWq3CxHs4UXriDeNtqHnReha_cOY0M9ov67HOp7BxCDHJscyHyFcatxN7-qm-r2bmw8/s400/cooltableHG.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" /></a> I saw this cool table at <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&ie=UTF-8&q=home+goods+locations&fb=1&gl=us&hq=home+goods&hnear=Lynnfield,+MA+01940&ei=8NTiS4qlA8KC8gaSyMHQDg&sa=X&oi=local_group&ct=image&resnum=4&ved=0CDYQtgMwAw">HomeGoods in Danvers</a> yesterday afternoon. This eye-catching piece is wrapped in copper colored faux croc, studded along the edges with nail head trim and looks great when combined with traditional pieces (note the rustic-looking chair with a woven-seat beside it). </div> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEbBfJaZimA2ThvQJwmTw_zecqAVTGtADlZQF-YkzJ6a7y9Mj30zeDOquAtjA41cHSe56P5hZ5YhIEkn-qu5c3ZcMcF0QNN3Kkg9HI8LFN_TqQ2Et0Pdf_CxbKRmK-Nhu4ug2Zl-3Bw4g/s1600/priceofcooltableHG.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468165898026964706" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEbBfJaZimA2ThvQJwmTw_zecqAVTGtADlZQF-YkzJ6a7y9Mj30zeDOquAtjA41cHSe56P5hZ5YhIEkn-qu5c3ZcMcF0QNN3Kkg9HI8LFN_TqQ2Et0Pdf_CxbKRmK-Nhu4ug2Zl-3Bw4g/s320/priceofcooltableHG.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a> <div style="text-align: center;">The price was pretty cool, too. If I didn’t have a cart full of great stuff already, I would have taken it home with me! Perhaps it would look good in your home??? </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://designvignettes.blogspot.com/2010/05/beach-bag-giveaway.html" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468165727538845074" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_DfgrZSDzOourrLTz8dZrEyoO1gT480sSazAudmh9Dy13LdSY01cYxWys0lqg1MVYR5rUk45nKcP8Jwkl0WGxW23MEqY1qoOnUMflgcBIjhPhXTqhkI4fX2QkSDLGIfzVkC4Sxg1uTow/s400/beachbagbanner.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 171px;" /></a> Don’t forget to <a href="http://designvignettes.blogspot.com/2010/05/beach-bag-giveaway.html" style="font-style: italic;">enter to win</a> my latest giveaway! Winner to be announced on May 12th at 9am. </div>

Cool item of the week ...

I saw this cool table at HomeGoods in Danvers yesterday afternoon. This eye-catching piece is wrapped in copper colored faux croc, studded ...

7:32 AM

Beach Bag Giveaway!

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie99L5duX_X5EAfd3wbQNrisDVlsQQWc7M8VurOQUev2pEqDwA10vjaX4FwpCDwiF-V4WdgzPFZv7M4HuUyfCRl0ez9rVuyjvEBiky-W8jBQNomll-z9xQxnirK_WVZq80Qv6KRN2POfk/s1600/beachbagondoor.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468127369781715538" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie99L5duX_X5EAfd3wbQNrisDVlsQQWc7M8VurOQUev2pEqDwA10vjaX4FwpCDwiF-V4WdgzPFZv7M4HuUyfCRl0ez9rVuyjvEBiky-W8jBQNomll-z9xQxnirK_WVZq80Qv6KRN2POfk/s400/beachbagondoor.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" /></a> <div style="text-align: center;">With summer days right around the corner, I have decided that it is time for another giveaway! This beach bag and towel gift set (both in the <a href="http://www.pantone.com/pages/pantone/Pantone.aspx?pg=20705&ca=4">Pantone color of the year, Turquoise</a>) are the perfect pair to give or keep for yourself. (vintage animal print scarf not included) </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgXtBV4jbEG2GQrMCUTsgSb_MNFDTyjiWo7Z_cnF9OqoMFsvZxlZAryUSYTuf8Sq1Zq_NUsEe1tNo2aQE05AvS1pgnMGTRL15HtHheWqnbtErqBvVy5p8YhxJByfmNTGJ1V55OZyWEAoE/s1600/beachbagfront.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467401184303788050" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgXtBV4jbEG2GQrMCUTsgSb_MNFDTyjiWo7Z_cnF9OqoMFsvZxlZAryUSYTuf8Sq1Zq_NUsEe1tNo2aQE05AvS1pgnMGTRL15HtHheWqnbtErqBvVy5p8YhxJByfmNTGJ1V55OZyWEAoE/s400/beachbagfront.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 296px; height: 400px;" /></a> Fine details combined with indoor/outdoor fabrics that can stand up to sea and sun make this beach bag pretty, durable and unique. </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg67d-lElSUTLbVdPDmcTHXr8FMo2OMi-43VqDMosno1z3wyDhT8jEKiwyLVZxQ7pRiLAbUgJDCrPC-uWM7b4OpVq2BrrUSlrq63FY9q4_3cTcs5wTTP9Htc4JKZhYyPUFHkQl3kNM_gcQ/s1600/insidepocketbb.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467401335435723810" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg67d-lElSUTLbVdPDmcTHXr8FMo2OMi-43VqDMosno1z3wyDhT8jEKiwyLVZxQ7pRiLAbUgJDCrPC-uWM7b4OpVq2BrrUSlrq63FY9q4_3cTcs5wTTP9Htc4JKZhYyPUFHkQl3kNM_gcQ/s400/insidepocketbb.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 310px;" /></a> Inside it is fully lined in a sea foam green stripe, has a built in zippered pocket along with divided pockets to securely hold cell phone, keys, summer reading, sunglasses, etc. </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-MuGcOpf1e0EdtuaCnxviVK8kUV0DZMTjnJdFmMAyfFG1FnUWSe19Kouw5FYoqCvK-m5eY6Cr4PKc7-yLs4zzw3v_MZKbibG6Zp48HQWCXynb23lz0xbQdrxZlTDl1vhwSOTuXY6xV6g/s1600/beachtowel.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467401203362966114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-MuGcOpf1e0EdtuaCnxviVK8kUV0DZMTjnJdFmMAyfFG1FnUWSe19Kouw5FYoqCvK-m5eY6Cr4PKc7-yLs4zzw3v_MZKbibG6Zp48HQWCXynb23lz0xbQdrxZlTDl1vhwSOTuXY6xV6g/s400/beachtowel.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" /></a> I am enclosing one really pretty super size beach towel (that I picked up while shopping last night for stylish props for my space at the <a href="http://www.wenhammuseum.org/adults_programs.html">North Shore Design Show</a>) so that our lucky winner is completely coordinated (a swim suit to match is up to the winner!) All you have to do to be entered to win is: 1. Be/become a follower on my blog (simply hit the “follow” link at the top of the blogger tool bar) and leave a comment on this post telling me the color of your favorite swimsuit or the name of your favorite beach (or just say something nice about my blog : ) 2. For a second chance to win, post a link to this giveaway on your own blog (send me the link) and/or through Twitter (follow me on Twitter by <a href="http://twitter.com/yblacker" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 0);">clicking here</a>). </div><div style="text-align: center;">Entries must be received by Tuesday, May 11th by 11:59pm EST. I will randomly choose one entry and then announce the winner on Wednesday, May 12th at 9am EST. Prize will be shipped only to an address in the United States or Canada (to be provided by the chosen winner). </div> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitpV6ZFpgKf5VYZhGYU-v26qPjID50cd_eC9npUa8xXQom4BCSA04eCC51DycItWKtK0jl3oIrl2FDhFxEZxfXFeJRZBo4vf4A3cAppz6FnFmLvUbTEbCjrgHoG01MQcVp2BIk5A_3cYA/s1600/shellpillow.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467401511547068626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitpV6ZFpgKf5VYZhGYU-v26qPjID50cd_eC9npUa8xXQom4BCSA04eCC51DycItWKtK0jl3oIrl2FDhFxEZxfXFeJRZBo4vf4A3cAppz6FnFmLvUbTEbCjrgHoG01MQcVp2BIk5A_3cYA/s400/shellpillow.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 360px;" /></a> <div style="text-align: center;">This seashell pillow from <a href="http://designvignettes.blogspot.com/2010/02/bloggers-valentine-giveaway.html">my last giveaway</a>, now resides in an Ogunquit, Maine home. To see other items that coordinate with this collection, please visit <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/yvonnebdesigns">my etsy shop</a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/yvonnebdesigns"> </a> ... <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgXtBV4jbEG2GQrMCUTsgSb_MNFDTyjiWo7Z_cnF9OqoMFsvZxlZAryUSYTuf8Sq1Zq_NUsEe1tNo2aQE05AvS1pgnMGTRL15HtHheWqnbtErqBvVy5p8YhxJByfmNTGJ1V55OZyWEAoE/s1600/beachbagfront.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"> </a> </div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTCOcfYclO0GXaQchZ-Rab_9QlbAuLvP1MUuuBt4GZ0amrmqYujEZNXnbHWYpdbg_rpMTrmao8u42oIpDu3zd-V3g0HElMGf2hzPp15LWdIQffQEEvJ6O-cxcJPZqDP9Wg4ZUjs9Fzl50/s1600/shellaquadot.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467401342682003266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTCOcfYclO0GXaQchZ-Rab_9QlbAuLvP1MUuuBt4GZ0amrmqYujEZNXnbHWYpdbg_rpMTrmao8u42oIpDu3zd-V3g0HElMGf2hzPp15LWdIQffQEEvJ6O-cxcJPZqDP9Wg4ZUjs9Fzl50/s400/shellaquadot.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 233px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgXtBV4jbEG2GQrMCUTsgSb_MNFDTyjiWo7Z_cnF9OqoMFsvZxlZAryUSYTuf8Sq1Zq_NUsEe1tNo2aQE05AvS1pgnMGTRL15HtHheWqnbtErqBvVy5p8YhxJByfmNTGJ1V55OZyWEAoE/s1600/beachbagfront.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/yvonnebdesigns" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467521240123095026" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1qRV5u7dG7Yaix7EHj5Z-xRhlthpyWGk3WKY0kHf45L8LF2AL-iEwWdGL-fInifYtDVMkFnWd5STqGf6TGgy1o5bFfU3ZylMbPkNadoSWu95G9Rr9xZVjB8aKVR8Gnlsg3TtYov1ZwzE/s400/ybdesignsbanner.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 53px;" /></a> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjswOxOd4rfMDgeQR3aEfELGuos7VActE_5T7C6OvFhyphenhyphen-B8iFvWC3uGnX3iHmYgJ8fnvU6TWBR6ku4ErR_SYLoA04KJ0-gIBQhtZrLK5QsPuTlXRvboR34ZAQVT1pXqHgSv4YrTnpBOask/s1600/embroideredsanddollar.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467518547210889730" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjswOxOd4rfMDgeQR3aEfELGuos7VActE_5T7C6OvFhyphenhyphen-B8iFvWC3uGnX3iHmYgJ8fnvU6TWBR6ku4ErR_SYLoA04KJ0-gIBQhtZrLK5QsPuTlXRvboR34ZAQVT1pXqHgSv4YrTnpBOask/s200/embroideredsanddollar.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 198px; height: 200px;" /></a> Good luck!! xoxo yvonne </div>

Beach Bag Giveaway!

With summer days right around the corner, I have decided that it is time for another giveaway! This beach bag and towel gift set (both in th...

2:55 PM

Designing your best life

<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPiESjBkOGEF6JuthiwM_-02u4iuOYst02A7zV22T3unEaVbtAXxSlPfG8Dc5PP2GC2g-twTR3oghX0h7mNk4eM5Y6AIzFX1iIsZJd83fqtBZJjqDPGK8wej-v4ZdM0iNgeFbZLPHvdBc/s1600/ginnyandsusan.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5466848850437422322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPiESjBkOGEF6JuthiwM_-02u4iuOYst02A7zV22T3unEaVbtAXxSlPfG8Dc5PP2GC2g-twTR3oghX0h7mNk4eM5Y6AIzFX1iIsZJd83fqtBZJjqDPGK8wej-v4ZdM0iNgeFbZLPHvdBc/s400/ginnyandsusan.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 392px; height: 400px;" /></a>Fashion Coach <a href="http://www.agreatnewlook.com/">Susan Kanoff</a> and </div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;">Professional Life Coach <a href="http://www.coachginny.com/">Ginny Williams</a> </div> Do you ever feel that life is pulling you in many directions, but you just don’t know which way you are headed? And then to top it off, you can’t imagine what to wear when you get there?? This past Saturday, fashion expert Susan Kanoff and professional life coach Ginny Williams teamed up to present their best tips on how to get closer to finding the answers in a life changing workshop titled “<a href="http://reinventingyourself.eventbrite.com/">Reinventing Yourself from the Inside Out</a>” <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtwfsxPd3-AANyLSj6rgdVqDCPWYY-urcUipwb0KwX5nDyqVEk2ioBLidhMRj6PljlErwGb335dNRt-q2mwNeZHYHkGfym1PgKZZaZrCuQCgn2NGO0Uxu0kvX6e6y-gKHovvBLG8Fmh7E/s1600/SusanKanoff-headerpic01.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5466847637780776994" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtwfsxPd3-AANyLSj6rgdVqDCPWYY-urcUipwb0KwX5nDyqVEk2ioBLidhMRj6PljlErwGb335dNRt-q2mwNeZHYHkGfym1PgKZZaZrCuQCgn2NGO0Uxu0kvX6e6y-gKHovvBLG8Fmh7E/s400/SusanKanoff-headerpic01.png" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 202px; height: 120px;" /></a> These women are truly passionate about helping their clients to make life choices with confidence ... whether those choices involve balancing work and family, dealing with a major life change (or two or three), creating a stylish wardrobe, or just trying to get to the bottom of “what is it that makes me happy and how do I create more of that while weeding out the stuff I don’t like?” I think we all have those days when we wish there were some signs along our personal journey that could clarify things a bit like “Don’t take that job ... it’s a dead end” or “Put that dress back on the rack, you’ll never feel comfortable wearing it and I don’t care if it is on sale!” <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI-tGZKir8T6JtbWlV3q51oyUdtQs6MBnpoMlMJCkD6bLp25C1ln1CDbPJPim8bh5yRDZ3yVRGZzHme78uG3ULZTi8GX8-ty1gPxp8zjWJGh1rJHj1tJ7SwOOGejQhyphenhyphenj31Y92G0vOxuXc/s1600/maria.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5466844697486479602" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI-tGZKir8T6JtbWlV3q51oyUdtQs6MBnpoMlMJCkD6bLp25C1ln1CDbPJPim8bh5yRDZ3yVRGZzHme78uG3ULZTi8GX8-ty1gPxp8zjWJGh1rJHj1tJ7SwOOGejQhyphenhyphenj31Y92G0vOxuXc/s400/maria.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 400px;" /></a>A great example of a stylish outfit that flatters, worn by audience member Maria Markey. </div> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPMPsRkn0SpPqTnh1EuTmH4iIJ86zx3R3-GAwF7bkw9Pite-9tWrDL359mddacjjT-sdxtcE_N5nr0gAQ-C3WPH4WViDKpUf100XpID8r_0FjuxIeJJea5cw_uOt6G0akG0ZhI56_vd4s/s1600/susanstable.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5466844161236792930" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPMPsRkn0SpPqTnh1EuTmH4iIJ86zx3R3-GAwF7bkw9Pite-9tWrDL359mddacjjT-sdxtcE_N5nr0gAQ-C3WPH4WViDKpUf100XpID8r_0FjuxIeJJea5cw_uOt6G0akG0ZhI56_vd4s/s400/susanstable.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></a>Some of Susan’s wardrobe staples: fashion tape to discreetly secure what is loose, wrinkle spray to smooth things over, a craft box to store jewelry tangle-free, and a stylish black wedge to look good on the go. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfBqZ_6JMZdTQm8REb7u9THswyNulWoxfk0SG09-xdDM0CDYr7hyphenhyphenlpJlH6tfN2fZMNHCMXifjuaQNYCcUyJ6E8fpqcwGZQpXCiqd-1ujEJlg6R6dV6EaJyPu_jp9_pw6am3JEGPx4sZtE/s1600/ginnyandkathleen.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5466844150572485138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfBqZ_6JMZdTQm8REb7u9THswyNulWoxfk0SG09-xdDM0CDYr7hyphenhyphenlpJlH6tfN2fZMNHCMXifjuaQNYCcUyJ6E8fpqcwGZQpXCiqd-1ujEJlg6R6dV6EaJyPu_jp9_pw6am3JEGPx4sZtE/s400/ginnyandkathleen.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 358px; height: 400px;" /></a>Coach Ginny with Kathleen Rose-Johnsen of <a href="http://koolkatdesign.com/" style="font-style: italic;">KoolKat Design</a> While a lot of us go to friends or family when we need our most urgent questions answered like “does this outfit make me look ... ?” there are times when a fresh perspective from a non-related person is in order! I have discussed personal goal setting with Ginny on many occasions. She has really helped me to focus on what I want more of in my life. Her ability to ask the right questions, really listen to my replies and then guide me toward finding my own answers has been like talking to a best friend/cheerleader/fairy godmother/emotional therapist all rolled into one! Just following her on Twitter, I am reminded often of how to take a positive approach to facing life’s daily challenges that can either slow us down or inspire us to greatness. And while I have not worked with Susan before (although I would gladly empty my closet and start fresh in exchange for one day of power shopping with her!) I have been following her on Twitter where she links to her favorite places to shop, offers “client” discounts and highlights current trends in fashion. </div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtwfsxPd3-AANyLSj6rgdVqDCPWYY-urcUipwb0KwX5nDyqVEk2ioBLidhMRj6PljlErwGb335dNRt-q2mwNeZHYHkGfym1PgKZZaZrCuQCgn2NGO0Uxu0kvX6e6y-gKHovvBLG8Fmh7E/s1600/SusanKanoff-headerpic01.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"> </a><img alt="Twitter Logo and Bird" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3086/3242600140_8c8cedc115_o.png" /><div style="text-align: center;">Susan Kanoff on Twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/Fashioncoach">Fashion Coach</a> </div><div style="text-align: center;">Ginny Williams on Twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/coachginny">Coach Ginny</a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvOc1M0xmpJmPIYgDytsztvggFwxBctxjQhuAGkpe49joyYUuMR1sxhTHFu4ihCEIfn2SHidCcKGMvM-N0xZpdh6tRvaRAv3JdMc2VV-fib5qzG5SFDmD1tlXawvskrWFx6MUVZog6U1c/s1600/ReinventWorkshop.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5466904818044668770" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvOc1M0xmpJmPIYgDytsztvggFwxBctxjQhuAGkpe49joyYUuMR1sxhTHFu4ihCEIfn2SHidCcKGMvM-N0xZpdh6tRvaRAv3JdMc2VV-fib5qzG5SFDmD1tlXawvskrWFx6MUVZog6U1c/s400/ReinventWorkshop.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 304px;" /></a>More workshops like this will be scheduled in the future. When someone loves what they do, they are able to share a special joy with the people around them. Saturday’s workshop was a lot like that. I left feeling like I had been in the company of women who really care about helping others to be happy in their own skin, doing what they love and enjoying the journey! A few years ago, I attended Oprah’s Live Your Best Life tour when it was in Boston. This workshop felt very similar in its ability to uplift and inspire. I will end today’s post with a great quote that Ginny used to begin Saturday’s event ... “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” – Marianne Williamson, A Return to Love </div>

Designing your best life

Fashion Coach Susan Kanoff and Professional Life Coach Ginny Williams Do you ever feel that life is pulling you in many directions, but you...

9:30 PM