November 27, 2008

DIY Thanksgiving Place Cards

Happy Thanksgiving, nesters! For a DIY Thanksgiving Table Decor idea, head on over to Threadbanger to see an easy How-To for tonight's table.


If you don't have time to complete the whole project, just take one leaf for each dinner guest, and one black fine-tipped Sharpie marker.


Gently write your friend of family member's name on each leaf to make place cards for your dinner table.


What does your Thanksgiving table look like this year? Send in photos and I will post them on the blog!

November 26, 2008

WBCIII

My best friend, my love, my husband, turns 29 today. Happy Birthday to the best man I know.




A Religious Experience

I really hope Santa reads my blog. I am dying for this amazing jumpsuit by She Bible, and I am worried that the jolly man doesn't know about such pieces.


This Faithful Pantsuit just makes me giddy. Made from organic bamboo fabric, it is a timeless piece that Sue Ellen Ewing would applaud. Elegant, classic and (I imagine) COMFORTABLE!! I already have a million different outfits for it all dancing around inside my head. Maybe if I am really good, it will be waiting under the tree. And I'd like it in black, size medium, Mr. Claus.

True Blood


True Blood is definitely the best show on television right now. Written by Alan Ball, the genius creator of my all-time favorite piece of work, Six Feet Under, it's on a whole other, awesome level. Nothing I can say will do it justice so just tune in. Really, I didn't think I'd be into the whole vampire thing either, but the story is enthralling, the set is captivating and the characters absolutely fascinating. The first season just ended so it's the perfect time to watch the HBO series on demand, pre-order to buy, or rent that mug on netflix.

November 22, 2008

Neck Envy


I want this!

Sophia's Spot


I am way into this retro Scandinavian-style work by North Carolina artist Sophia's Sweet Spot.


Retro Whale Tail and Midnight is above.


Mo'hawkin' Bird


Retro Sprout

Almost Advent


Remember Advent Calenders? Remember the eager anticipation of opening another window, eating another piece of reindeer-shaped-chocolate to symbolize being one step closer to biggest day of the year. My sweet mom still buys advent calenders and gives them to us each year when we are home for Thanksgiving.



This year, Will and I are having our own Thanksgiving in our home here in Brooklyn for the very first time. We are going to have a lovely meal with good friends and are very excited to be creating our own traditions and memories as a married couple.


But when I must admit, when I came across this cool advent calender on Etsy, it made me a little homesick for my mom's pumpkin bread and advent calenders.


November 14, 2008

New York Kitchen


Embrace a theme in your kitchen to pull it together. We have two cool New York pieces and have them hanging above our oven. You see this wall as you enter our apartment, and it's a nice reminder that you are home.

November 12, 2008

Pinecone Placecard


Simple and lovely. We had these at our Swiss Raclette Dinner in October.


Mix-matched fiestaware and white serving platters made for an elegant yet fun table setting and friendly atmosphere.


Add good wine, great friends, and games and you are set for a successful, fun, and relaxing evening.



*Photographs by Wendy Hickok, of course.

Skyler's Bedroom Re-Do


Peak into the room of one very lucky little girl who has one very creative and capable mommy.


Natalie hung these butterflies in her daughter Skyler's room to add a touch of whimsy and magic. With the butterflies, clear thread, beads and ribbon, all found in AC Moore, you can add this cool element to your kid's room.


Natalie hand-painted the activity table herself. You can see the materials, and the before, and after pictures here.


The previous bed didn't make it through the year, but Natalie made a more kid-friendly sleeping spot this time around. She attached the tent to the top of a twin bed, making the perfect cozy nook for a little one.


Skyler looks very pleased with her adorable bedroom. Nice work, Natalie!

November 11, 2008

Full of Grace


During our shoot with Wendy Hickok, we asked our kick-ass wedding photographer to take a few shots of our little canine.


This fawn-like mutt is my best, most hilarious friend and has a big heart of gold. These photos give a taste of the brilliance that is Grace.


The Easiest Biscuits


Here is a quick and easy breakfast recipe for Drop Biscuits. Use as many organic ingredients as you can and add a touch of butter and jam to make a delicious, no fuss breakfast.


Nerds Get Chicks


New Bedding


With wedding gift cards, we purchased a white, crisp, and comfy new down comforter. Now I don't ever want to leave this cozy, soft sleep haven.


Martha Stewart white down comforter and pillows. On MAJOR sale at Macy's.

November 10, 2008

Darling Clementine


Clementine season has begun. These delicious treats double as a natural odor remover in your kitchen.


Peel your snack and place the peel in a pot of water.



Simmer on your stove top to create a fresh, citrus aroma that enhances your homes scent and cuts malodorous smells left over from strong recipes.



You can also try Candied Clementine Peels from Keen Recipes. Or add a dash of the zest to a salad for a little flavor and color.

Kitchen Organization


With the holiday season just around the corner, now is the perfect time to organize the tools that help you make your massive meals.


Choose open containers to hold the utensils you use most so they are accessible and easy-to-find.


Before turkey day catches up with you, attack those drawers that inevitably end up being a catch-all for the entire household. Designate specific spaces for your spoons, tongs, fondue sticks, etc.


Arrange them so that the items you use more frequently are the easiest to find and grab in a pinch.


Whoever has the time to actually do this? No one. But if you make it happen now, you will be thankful on Christmas Eve.