tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47378064631999781562024-03-13T04:40:59.999-07:00Livable MachineStephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.comBlogger283125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-72165256838762956962014-06-19T20:19:00.000-07:002014-06-19T20:19:00.412-07:00Mothering and Becoming Myself<a href="http://joannagoddard.blogspot.com/search/label/juggling%20work%20and%20motherhood">THIS Series on Motherhood/Work Balance</a> is SO hitting home to me lately.<br />
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My sweet baby girl is officially a toddler now and things are shifting for me. The first several months, and really almost the first year, of her life I was just going with the flow. Getting used to taking care of an infant, understanding her unique little personality, meanwhile trying to take care of myself was no small task and it took all the attention I could gather. After she turned a year old, I felt conviction to begin scheduling out my days, planning her naps, planning quiet time for me, time for Bible study/journaling/prayer, exercise, meal planning, cleaning and really all those things that are on my to-do list. With more of a schedule in place now, I felt relief and accomplishment. But there were still pockets of unclaimed time and a sense at the end of each day "what did I do with myself today?" I started feeling lost, as many young mothers do. I figured this was just the season of motherhood, that the days are long and the years are short, as they say.<br />
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I love staying home with my girl. It's exactly where I want to be. But I am beginning to strongly feel like I must not abandon myself to motherhood and forget my dreams, desires, and God-given gifts. I can't just put myself "on hold" until I have an empty nest. Especially with my history of <a href="http://www.coda.org/">co-dependency</a>, I am hyper-aware of my penchant for martyrdom and idealism and perfectionism which all contribute to a suffocating version of motherhood that I keep selling to myself.<br />
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My friend <a href="http://www.nourishyourfamily.com/contact/">Brandie</a> and I were discussing this idea of wanting to balance motherhood with work/hobby/activity that inspires a woman to be herself. I feel exasperate, how is a woman to do it all!??!<br />
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My friend <a href="http://heylizjordan.com/">Liz</a> said something really remarkable to me at a Bible study a few months ago- that she finds her ambitions in motherhood by asking herself what kind of mother would she want for her daughter. That sort of objectivity has been so eye-opening to my own ambitions for my motherhood!<br />
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I want my daughter to have a mother who is fully alive in her giftedness.<br />
I want my daughter to have a mother who isn't afraid to try new things, things that don't necessarily make sense.<br />
I want my daughter to have a mother who isn't afraid to fail.<br />
I want my daughter to have a mother who keeps moving forward, even when the next step is uncertain.<br />
I want my daughter to have a mother who is strong and laughs at the days to come.<br />
I want my daughter to have a mother who is passionate about becoming the person God made her a little more every day.<br />
I want my daughter to have a mother who follows God with her whole entire heart and soul.<br />
I want to be that role model to my daughter, to teach by example, by living, by moving, by loving.<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/56/629F8FBCA0C52CF647DC739B1D7C820A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-88064076561259883982014-06-18T19:36:00.002-07:002014-06-18T19:36:55.619-07:00Birk LoveI've been watching this Birkenstock craze to see if it will stick...<br />
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My only connotation of that sandal was that hippies and my aunt with foot problems wear them so they didn't exactly strike me as glam. I was so skeptical, assuming it would be a mild trend that not many people actually embrace (think, recent overall comeback), but Y'ALL, it's sticking around! And they're actually looking AWESOME!<br />
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Then I saw <a href="http://whoorl.com/archives/19719">Sarah over at Whoorl</a> gushing about them on Facebook and so many people commented with their Birk-clad feet! And all so cute. It kind of solidified my enchantment.<br />
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My very <a href="http://downtonblabby.blogspot.com/">sweet ol' lady</a> Abby (that means "roomie" in Aggie talk) messaged me one day about seeing my comment on FB about Birks. She was wanting the exact pair! Within the week, she had found some stellar deal at DSW and is now the proud owner of some Black Gizahs. The following week, I texted her asking how they were feeling, and as we're talking, I get out to fill up my car at the gas station and the woman in the sleek black escalade next to me steps out of her car wearing, you guessed it, some Gizahs.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Duh, if Heidi Klum is wearing them, they must be in. </td></tr>
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Yah, so pretty much, all this to say, destiny wants me to get myself a pair. And who am I to disagree with destiny? :)<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/56/629F8FBCA0C52CF647DC739B1D7C820A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-11723158978303504562014-06-11T08:41:00.000-07:002014-06-11T08:41:02.095-07:00Open PlanSo I guess almost year between posts in normal when you have a baby, right? Here's hoping to a little more consistency as I now have a TODDLER! (How did that happen?)<br />
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I love <a href="http://littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2014-03-21T03:54:00-04:00&max-results=4&start=24&by-date=false">Jenny's blog Little Green Notebook</a> and was perusing her posts last night when I saw THIS:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.laurenliess.com/blog/Kitchen/Norman_13033LL_085_web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.laurenliess.com/blog/Kitchen/Norman_13033LL_085_web.jpg" height="476" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">everything. I love everything.</td></tr>
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It literally took my breath away. As I scrolled down looking at each beautiful image, I realized my appreciation was not just for the style and aesthetic, but also for the <u>open plan</u>. I've often been an open plan snob. Often clients ask me for a melding of the formal and casual spaces which can often look mish-mashed. And often times builder-ready homes marketed to have "open plans"really just look like a great room with no delineation of space.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">paintings above the sink</td></tr>
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But now that I am a mother and have a VERY busy toddler who always wants to be under my feet, I am COMPLETELY ENAMORED with the concept of an open plan living space. I mean, wash the dishes in a closed off kitchen that's separate from the family room? Last week when I did that, I found my 15 month old, in the powder bath, stirring toilet water with one arm up to her armpits, and holding her can of puff snacks with the other- I presume she was attempting chip 'n' dip. ::Shudder:: Gross.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">fridge, microwave, beg area opening into the dining area</td></tr>
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So anyway, I'm a recent convert to open plan homes. And THIS one does it so well.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">those shades WITH the patterned draperies! (She's also a textile designer and that fabric is her own design! Love a woman who creates in several media!</td></tr>
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You may have already seen these pics in Domino of <a href="http://www.laurenliess.com/pure-style-home/our-kitchen-before-after">Lauren Liess's incredible renovation</a>. She tore down walls, re-configured the kitchen layout completely, added a big beautiful island, and made a bar/fridge nook off to the side near the dining space. It's so incredible.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.laurenliess.com/blog/Kitchen/Norman_13033LL_081_web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.laurenliess.com/blog/Kitchen/Norman_13033LL_081_web.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the flavor of her kitchen just flows right into the open family room. </td></tr>
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She did such an amazing job creating a large multi-tasking space with style that flows. I love how well she did that!<br />
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The space has such a great vintage/country/industrial vibe that is inviting, unique, and casual while staying stylish and cool. I think those open iron shelves are my favorite too- although I'm still not convinced I could do open shelves in my own kitchen (too many mismatched messy things!).<br />
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I also LOVE the barstools and that leather living room chair in the bottom left-hand corner of this photo.<br />
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For more photos, check out her blog <a href="http://www.laurenliess.com/pure-style-home/our-kitchen-before-after">here</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/56/629F8FBCA0C52CF647DC739B1D7C820A.png" style="background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 0px !important;" /></a>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-50935495089064159362013-08-14T14:31:00.001-07:002013-08-14T14:44:32.883-07:00Lessons from Sleep TrainingWhen I had a brand new tiny human placed in my arms at the hospital, I vowed NEVER to sleep train via the <a href="http://www.babycenter.com/0_the-ferber-method-demystified_7755.bc">Cry It Out (CIO) method</a>. What cruel mother would do that to her perfect little bundle of love and neediness?<br />
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I stood by that statement until 2 weeks ago, when Zoe turned 5 months and we had been dealing with the <a href="http://www.sleeplady.com/baby-sleep/4-month-sleep-regression/#.Ugvt3xY5TWE">4 month sleep regression</a> for 6 weeks with no signs of changing. I would rock and nurse Zoe to sleep at bedtime, and then do the dance of put her in her bassinet, she wakes up and cries, so I rock her some more. We would do this about 5 times before she would stay asleep in the bassinet. Then she would wake up screaming every 1-2 hours all through the night. Early in the night, I would repeat the rock and nurse to sleep routine, but in the wee hours of the morning, in my delirium, I would give up and just put her in bed with me. This didn't fix anything because she'd still wake up every 1-2 hours, I'd nurse her next to me, but she would have a hard time falling back asleep, so I'd hold her really tightly to keep her from flailing herself awake. I would wake up the next morning more exhausted than before, feeling like I'd wrestled a baby alligator all night long. And Zoe would wake up cranky for the day too. Fun.<br />
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Naptimes were equally fun. Because Zoe had never self-soothed, she didn't know how to nap and she was growing and learning so much that nursing to sleep didn't happen during the day because she wanted to look at EVERYTHING around her. "Oh, look, a stuffed animal over there!" "Oh look, your bra strap is interesting?" "Oh look, the sunbeam on the wall is so cool." Seriously? I would usually give up and strap her in my Ergo, cover her head so she couldn't see anything and do chores or something to rock her to sleep. So yah, my days were super relaxing. Lots of moms recommended just taking a nap with Zoe, but that didn't work because I couldn't actually get her to sleep on the bed with me- she was too distracted.<br />
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One morning after wrestling my baby alligator all night long, I turned to Taylor and confessed the secret resentment that was beginning to grow towards my perfect little baby. That little fleck of <span style="color: red;"><b>resentment was my red flag</b></span> that something wasn't working and that maybe I did need to consider letting Zoe learn to self-soothe.<br />
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I began thinking about Zoe as a toddler and how this waking all night thing would NOT fly as she got older, especially once she learns how to climb out of her crib and once we have other babies to tend to.<br />
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So, I called and texted some of my most trusted mama friends- you know, the ones who mother the way you want to mother. They gave me their pep talks, their instructions and trouble shooting details, and as soon as I shared them with Taylor, he was on board 100%- what a man!<br />
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We started last night. It was so rough.<br />
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The only other times I've heard my baby scream and shriek like that is when she's in her carseat and is sleepy and there's nowhere for mommy to exit to help her. Terrible.<br />
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So we laid in bed next to her bassinet (she couldn't see us), listening to her scream, comforting her every couple of minutes. She would stop and pause, start again, make little protesting sounds, then resume shrieking. I'd pick her up to comfort her, tell her that I love her and want to teach her how to sleep and sooth herself, that I didn't leave and I'm right here. It was hard. So glad to have my man supporting me and Zoe in this new, difficult thing.<br />
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As I lay there wrestling with dualing thoughts, "this is good for her, I'm being a good mama teaching her how to sleep" vs "she is so mad, I hope she doesn't think I've left her," I started seeing the parallels with God's training in my life.<br />
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God often times allows me to go through really really awful, painful seasons for my own good. Of course, I don't know they're <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=romans%208:28&version=AMP">for my own good</a> when they're happening. In the moment, I think bad things are just happening to me. I get mad and throw fits at God, demanding He show me where He is, that He fix this, that I really really can't take it anymore. But just like I am with Zoe, God is right there IN my struggle, not fixing it because the training is good for me, and He knows I really can take it. He trains me because He loves me, just like I am doing with Zoe.<br />
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He isn't selfish, just wanting more time to himself to watch TV or have a break (which is what I wrongly assumed most mothers wanted when they "subjected" their babies to CIO sleep training). He is tenderly, lovingly watching me and training me, doing what is best for me. Just like I am doing for Zoe.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #c27ba0; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">For the time being no discipline brings joy, but seems grievous <i>and</i> painful; but afterwards it yields a peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it [a harvest of fruit which consists in righteousness—in conformity to God’s will in purpose, thought, and action, resulting in right living and right standing with God].</span><span style="font-weight: normal;">- Hebrews 12:5-11</span></span></h4>
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The moment she gave in and fell asleep after 30 minutes of intermittant (and comforted) crying, I was relieved and hopeful that it wouldn't be this bad next time. And you know what? The next time, she cried less and surrendered to sleep more quickly.<br />
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When she woke up the next morning her cheery, loving, precious self, I couldn't wait to bring her into my bed for some morning cuddles and ten thousand kisses on her sweet chubby cheeks. I felt so proud of her.<br />
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I think and hope that God must be watching us from the metophorical bedside, cheering for us when we struggle with new and difficult things, and that He is so excited to celebrate with us in the morning.<br />
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xoxo,<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/56/629F8FBCA0C52CF647DC739B1D7C820A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-63413703228330882652013-08-01T18:44:00.001-07:002013-08-01T18:48:37.069-07:00So I'm a mom now... (a.k.a. my Zoe's birth story)<br />
Sorry for the radio silence for the last 6 months! We moved into a bigger place, had a zillion baby showers, I had our first baby, and we've been adjusting to parenthood since! So yah, no big deal.<br />
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I've hesitated sharing my birth story because a blog is quite a public place to share such a personal, intimate part of my life experience. But I'm such a sucker for birth stories, reading so many online, I thought I should go ahead and contribute to the beautiful world of birth stores.<br />
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I hope you enjoy reading mine. God is so good.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My due date was March 4, but my midwife, Natalie, encouraged me not to take that date seriously and have plenty of projects and distractions to busy myself with. I took this suggestion to heart.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">me, working, just a couple days before</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">me organizing the baby stuff = "playing"</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">getting some last minute maternity photos done</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Saturday, March 2nd, Taylor and I woke up early to go to a farmer's market with his sister and her family (Kim and Bill). At the farmer's market, I had a couple "cramps" that felt new. I assumed they were Braxton Hicks, since I still hadn't gotten any of those yet. I whispered to Taylor that I was having them, but they were probably nothing. We didn't want to tell anyone just in case I had false labor for some long period of time.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So we went home and took naps. Taylor woke up before me to go pick up our new clothes washer (YAY! Thanks, Granny!) and get it installed. I woke up feeling fine, no cramps. When he got back, we went to dinner at The Counter with his cousin Steven, who'd helped us pick up the washer and install it. I had a few more intense "cramps" at dinner and decided to start tracking them on my iPhone app- they were between 10 and 7 mins apart. They were getting stronger, longer, and closer together, just as our Bradley Method instructor, Karen, told us they would if they were real contractions. I remember ordering a veggie burger just in case I did go into labor that night knowing that a heavy burger would be a BAD choice, ha!</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When we got home, I was ready to putter around the apartment. I folded some clean baby laundry and worked a little bit in the baby's room (which was in complete disarray because we thought we had so much time). I kept timing the contractions which were easy enough to breath through- they were 5-7 minutes apart. My mom called and we visited on the phone for a bit and there were two difficult contractions while I was on the phone with her. But I still wasn't convinced they were real contractions, so I didn't say anything about it to my mom (sorry Mom!).</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I texted my midwife around 8pm telling her the history of the timing of the contractions and she said to take a warm bath, eat a good dinner, and try to sleep to get energy for the labor. The bath did not slow the contractions. In fact, I had a few in the tub and had Taylor come in and time them for me. Taylor and I had a special moment while I was soaking in the tub- he sweetly told me how he wanted to be connected throughout all this and that he was there to love and support me. Enough sweet talk, another contraction was coming.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IGa3wuF4Q84/UfsMJIsJHNI/AAAAAAAAEnE/2HGYzmEAgYU/s1600/IMG_8083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IGa3wuF4Q84/UfsMJIsJHNI/AAAAAAAAEnE/2HGYzmEAgYU/s320/IMG_8083.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">timing contractions & reviewing Bradley<br />
Method info on contractions</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I got out of the tub and tried lying down to rest, but lying down made the contractions so much WORSE! The only thing that was helpful was sitting on my birthing ball and making circles with my hips. Sometimes standing up and swaying in a circle felt better too. I was having to use all my breathing and concentration to get through each contraction. Probably around 9pm, I saw some bloody show and the midwife texted Taylor telling him that this was indeed a sign of labor and our baby was on the way! Contractions were 2-3 minutes apart at this point.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R3y_F1lYuMA/UfsLytMK-fI/AAAAAAAAEmw/GO5wLSVsosY/s1600/IMG_8087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R3y_F1lYuMA/UfsLytMK-fI/AAAAAAAAEmw/GO5wLSVsosY/s320/IMG_8087.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">hip circles on the ball</td></tr>
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</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I kept working through the contractions on my ball, breathing deeply, until they started hitting harder! Taylor knew it was time to go to the birth center when I could no longer relax through them and I sounded much different. Pretty sure I dropped the F-bomb during one of my contractions. Natalie texted him the go-ahead to come on.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Somewhere around here, I realized we still hadn't installed the carseat- so Taylor packed our bags in the car and installed the carseat. We got in the car and began the fast drive along I-10 to the Katy Birth Center. Oh man, that drive was rough! It was all I could do to breath through the pain. We arrived at the birth center at 12:30am. Natalie checked me and was shocked and delighted to find me dialated to 8cm already! We thought this birth was going to be a fast one! She filled up the birthing pool for me (which is where I planned to deliver) where I labored and then began to push.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dP1tck7seOs/UfsMZJ_JNPI/AAAAAAAAEnM/fOvnikmP8KM/s1600/IMG_8093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dP1tck7seOs/UfsMZJ_JNPI/AAAAAAAAEnM/fOvnikmP8KM/s320/IMG_8093.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">birth ball = pain reduction!</td></tr>
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</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Oh my word, pushing was so incredibly painful! I was not prepared for THAT sensation! I felt very zen and calm through the first phase of labor- it was like a painful yoga class where you have to breath into the pain. But pushing was so different. The pain changed to a sensation I can only describe as my whole body feeling like it was going to split in half. I really thought my body would take over and would push on its own, but I really struggled with knowing which muscles to use and what to do with this new pain. The pain got so intense that I began resisting it instead of just going with it. I started getting scared. I started wimpering, I can't do it, I can't push. Taylor and Natalie kept encouraging me to lean into it and push WITH the pain.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5CTnS7l_MTc/UfsMfeChWSI/AAAAAAAAEnU/YYWCxm0UVNE/s1600/IMG_8118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5CTnS7l_MTc/UfsMfeChWSI/AAAAAAAAEnU/YYWCxm0UVNE/s320/IMG_8118.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taylor and Natalie coaching me to push with the pressure</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5-DqIpCukJU/UfsMiuPpbPI/AAAAAAAAEnc/Go2kpum1B9A/s1600/IMG_8107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5-DqIpCukJU/UfsMiuPpbPI/AAAAAAAAEnc/Go2kpum1B9A/s320/IMG_8107.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">exhausted</td></tr>
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</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I tried pushing in the pool, then I tried on the toilet, then I tried on a birthing stool, then I tried side-lying on the bed and NOTHING felt better. I told Taylor with a straight face (which he thought hilarious) that "This is hard. Nothing feels good."</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After a few contractions on the bed, the baby's heart rate began dropping with each push. Natalie had to push the baby back up inside me at one point to see if she would reposition. It was probably close to 5 am at this point and I was spent! I had absolutely no energy to push anymore. Natalie was praying for me, hooking me up to oxygen, and an IV, trying to get me to perk up so I could keep pushing. Taylor was exhausted and I could tell a little scared. I rested for a while, just breathing through contractions instead of pushing through them and nothing was helping. I felt so powerless and so tired. I didn't feel like I had it in me to get the baby out. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Finally, Natalie turned to Taylor and told him that we needed to get ready to go to the hospital because the baby's heart rate kept getting lower and that maybe an epidural or seomthing to help me with the pain would help me push her out. It was so surreal hearing Natalie say that. My dream water birth was gone. I felt like a failure but at the same time, was just ready to get our baby out however she needed to come out and I was so tired of being in pain.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">Taylor drove me and Natalie to the nearest hospital Memorial Herman Katy and I kept having contractions as I was walking in- so painful. </span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Egz16RmnScU/UfsM0HMsD5I/AAAAAAAAEnk/CSQCMN21a1U/s1600/IMG_8128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Egz16RmnScU/UfsM0HMsD5I/AAAAAAAAEnk/CSQCMN21a1U/s400/IMG_8128.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">early morning at the Memorial Herman Katy hospital</td></tr>
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They wheeled me into a delivery room and a plethora of nurses began asking me tons of legal and medical questions, having me sign my life away in case of any problems. They gave me something to slow the contractions, but it did not really work. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3ViSVqCkR3I/UfsNLf-58oI/AAAAAAAAEnw/plm69A_Y-hc/s1600/IMG_8129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3ViSVqCkR3I/UfsNLf-58oI/AAAAAAAAEnw/plm69A_Y-hc/s320/IMG_8129.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Natalie on the upper left, Dr. Bertles on the lower left,<br />
and two of several nurses coaching me.</td></tr>
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The doctor on call came in and was preparing to do a C-section. Natalie was my greatest advocate and really pleaded with her to give me a few more opportunities to push with all the fetal monitors. I pushed a few times (completely exhausted), and baby girl didn't budge. The doctor said I could have one more try and then we were heading into surgery. I pushed with everything I could and I suspect God gave me favor because baby started descending again! I had 4 nurses and my midwife and Taylor surrounding me on the hospital bed, holding back my knees, and yelling and encouraging me with each contraction. The last few pushes, baby's head would crown, and then go back a little.</div>
</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;">
Taylor said he went to the corner of the room and got on his knees and just opened his hands, telling God we wanted to receive whatever He wanted to give us.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For the last contraction, the doctor told me to push and not stop even if the contraction ended. I pushed as hard as I could, the doctor simultaneously cut an episiotomy (ouch!), and our baby's head an body came out in two pushes! I could not believe how big she looked!!! She was HUGE! I couldn't believe she came out of me! They handed her to me and I was in love. Taylor cried while I cooed over our little girl and the doctor stitched me up. It was amazing!!! I was so glad my midwife was there with me the whole time and so glad I got through the whole birth without major medication or C-section. It was the hardest most painful thing I've ever done. And if course I would do it again for her.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c8kxIbxyMk4/UfsOBVNwhTI/AAAAAAAAEn4/sMGrTS4LwbY/s1600/67356_10101182421325277_1540184879_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c8kxIbxyMk4/UfsOBVNwhTI/AAAAAAAAEn4/sMGrTS4LwbY/s320/67356_10101182421325277_1540184879_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the picture we texted family and friends</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Taylor and I just stare at her and marvel at how wonderful she is. What a gift God gave us! </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Her name means life. We picked it because we sensed God would use her to bring new life to us and our families. It's also significant to us because God gave us this life, after a miscarriage last year. And after her complicated birth, God gave us this beautiful life that we are so crazy in love with. She is such new life and favor. Such a beautiful gift.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Even though I didn't have the exact birth I was hoping for, the wonderful doctor and nurses and the hospital stay were all marked with God's favor. And I was so blessed to have my midwife with me the entire time.</span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">
</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was truly beautiful. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p1FusyiNyKQ/UfsOJQxFI7I/AAAAAAAAEoA/-H3VM1dZfdE/s1600/549875_10101202943892887_1169792992_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p1FusyiNyKQ/UfsOJQxFI7I/AAAAAAAAEoA/-H3VM1dZfdE/s1600/549875_10101202943892887_1169792992_n.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">our little family</td></tr>
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xoxo,<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/56/629F8FBCA0C52CF647DC739B1D7C820A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-90579056117828138532013-01-03T13:17:00.000-08:002013-01-03T13:17:00.058-08:00Week 1 Menu<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
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<br />
After binging on all kinds of sweets over Christmas, so much so that my midwife said my newfound Restless Legs are a result, I am committing to feeding this baby healthier food. Oh yah, and I'll need to be fit and nourished for that whole natural birth thing coming up in 61 days (WHAT IN THE WORLD!?!?!?).<br />
<br />
So here's my menu for the week (Clockwise from Top Left):<br />
- learn to make a REAL bone broth (not the same as the boxed stuff). This stuff not only is full of minerals (duh, from bones), but it's supposed to cure all sorts of ailments and be amazing for fertility/pregnancy/babies. I plan on drinking a cup a day.<br />
-Paleo-friendly Shepherd's Pie w/cauliflower mash on top! A friend who is a midwife made this with beef, kale, corn, carrots, and onions.<br />
- Sausage, butternut squash, and brussel sprout roast- need I say more? Yum!<br />
- Kale Salad That Even Kids Will Like- or in my case, my husband will even like. I think it's delicious!<br />
- Crustless Kale and Leek Quiche- making this minus the cheese (not Paleo) for breakfasts.<br />
- DIY Ghee, the clarified butter, the magical Paleo-friendly fat for cooking.<br />
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Click Below for any recipes and links. :) <br />
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<img alt="Week 1 Menu" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/aMIi71S8ldJg4EnyCClIAg/cid/67808410/id/ZA0wHWsxTXevBzPQqq1nJg/size/c500x550.jpg" force="1" height="550" title="Week 1 Menu" width="500" /></div>
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<small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/week_menu/set?.embedder=395018&.svc=blogger&id=67808410" target="_blank">Week 1 Menu</a> by <a href="http://sgahm.polyvore.com/?.embedder=395018&.svc=blogger" target="_blank">sgahm</a> on <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/" target="_blank">Polyvore</a></small></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing.outbound?.embedder=395018&.svc=blogger&id=73749408" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/73749408.jpg" force="1" height="50" hspace="4" title="D.I.Y. Ghee | Award-Winning Paleo Recipes | Nom Nom Paleo" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing.outbound?.embedder=395018&.svc=blogger&id=73749851" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/73749851.jpg" force="1" height="50" hspace="4" title="BLOOMINGTON BITES CRUSTLESS LEEK KALE QUICHE" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing.outbound?.embedder=395018&.svc=blogger&id=73749471" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/73749471.jpg" force="1" height="50" hspace="4" title="Jen's Gone Paleo" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing.outbound?.embedder=395018&.svc=blogger&id=73749519" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/73749519.jpg" force="1" height="50" hspace="4" title="Kale Salad and the Kids of East Los Angeles!" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing.outbound?.embedder=395018&.svc=blogger&id=73749767" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/73749767.jpg" force="1" height="50" hspace="4" title="Shepherd’s Pie with Cauliflower Mash" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing.outbound?.embedder=395018&.svc=blogger&id=73749153" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/73749153.jpg" force="1" height="50" hspace="4" title="How to Make Bone Broth Tutorial" vspace="4" width="50" /></a></div>
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Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-525189295603702882012-11-16T10:47:00.000-08:002012-11-16T10:47:00.047-08:00A Study in Putting it All Together <a href="http://www.olioboard.com/boards/150828" target="_blank"><img alt="Gerhardt Study v.2" src="http://boards.olioboard.com.s3.amazonaws.com/150828_original.jpg" /></a><br /> <br /> <br />
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Here's another project I've been working on. </div>
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This client has a study that needs a little TLC. They adore Restoration Hardware and knew they wanted to source any and all new pieces from there, they just needed a little help with the layout, windows, and accessories.</div>
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I drew up their plan and the room isn't very big, especially with the curved wall. I usually like to do two lounge chairs opposite a desk in a home office, but it was too crowded with the curved wall! So we went with one large statement chair- the <a href="http://www.restorationhardware.com/catalog/product/product.jsp?productId=prod580026">Copenhagen</a>.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zROV7BrXmBc/UKKS6DtkhBI/AAAAAAAAEkQ/FzpRGJ7shFA/s1600/myimage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zROV7BrXmBc/UKKS6DtkhBI/AAAAAAAAEkQ/FzpRGJ7shFA/s640/myimage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I didn't like how he was working off the built-ins, so I suggested we get a small desk (the one pictured is from Resto) to go in front, with a desk chair in between. Because the small room can feel crowded fast, I went with an open legged desk that would not get too visually heavy. We will accessorize the shelves with books and objets to give that main wall visual impact. </div>
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I loved the black painted cabinet they already were using for storage (and surprise! it's also a secretary-style desk for her crafts and projects) and I loved having it along that secondary wall for interest. They just need help placing wall art around it and accessorizing the top (easy peasy). Putting that large Copenhagen chair in the corner gives a little reading nook and the height of the chair is good for that wall too.</div>
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The uncovered windows are on the front of the house (not very private!), so I suggested some grass shades flanked by stationary creamy linen panels, which will also soften up the dark masculine walls. I love the wall color they chose- it makes the space feel dark and intimate and manly. </div>
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These people have great taste, but just needed me to help them put the pieces together.</div>
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I'll post pics when everything is complete!</div>
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<br />
xoxo,<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/56/629F8FBCA0C52CF647DC739B1D7C820A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-33036794040587125672012-11-15T04:00:00.000-08:002012-11-15T15:13:56.872-08:00In Progress <a href="http://www.olioboard.com/boards/134009" target="_blank"><img alt="Party Room" src="http://boards.olioboard.com.s3.amazonaws.com/134009_original.jpg" /></a><br />
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I've been working on this really great project for the last two months and figured I should probably share it here on the ol' blog. Here's the moodboard with the design ideas I presented. The client owns a restaurant and needs some functionality and design added to the party room.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fwu6gWYZTOw/UKKGWNbM_hI/AAAAAAAAEjI/ysqLxrQaXow/s1600/photo-55.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fwu6gWYZTOw/UKKGWNbM_hI/AAAAAAAAEjI/ysqLxrQaXow/s400/photo-55.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copyright Livable Machine</td></tr>
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There's this beautiful giant window that takes up most of one of the long walls, but it's West facing, which means late afternoons and evenings are blinding in here! They wanted some window coverings, so I proposed some French-y <a href="http://www.conradshades.com/">Conrad Shades</a>, like these: </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ARNsUoMaCK4/UKKHloD0kgI/AAAAAAAAEjY/go03A-m2L44/s1600/CONRAD_portfolio1716.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ARNsUoMaCK4/UKKHloD0kgI/AAAAAAAAEjY/go03A-m2L44/s400/CONRAD_portfolio1716.jpg" width="291" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Conrad Shades Portfolio</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uC3vVB-zffc/UKKGRArX11I/AAAAAAAAEiw/hTteNP_39ps/s1600/image-9.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uC3vVB-zffc/UKKGRArX11I/AAAAAAAAEiw/hTteNP_39ps/s640/image-9.jpeg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
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Here's the selection of shade options that will need to work with the existing dining chairs. </div>
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They have this custom wine storage cabinet that is 14' long and had nothing interesting above it. I found this large (7'x3') antique industrial mirror from an antique dealer here in town to hang above. The client asked for an asymmetrical application to reflect as much natural light from the windows as possible. Still hunting for the perfect piece to balance it. I want a large aged looking planter with an interesting topiary inside.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0gnKVHTRLTg/UKKGPJ-nDyI/AAAAAAAAEio/0V4vFLHjXs4/s1600/image-10.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0gnKVHTRLTg/UKKGPJ-nDyI/AAAAAAAAEio/0V4vFLHjXs4/s320/image-10.jpeg" width="239" /></a></div>
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Not this, but you get the idea. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hZGniJDnsIQ/UKKGSikzWjI/AAAAAAAAEi4/85OpXkblv0g/s1600/photo-53.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hZGniJDnsIQ/UKKGSikzWjI/AAAAAAAAEi4/85OpXkblv0g/s640/photo-53.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then my very favorite piece: the stacked bar system I designed to go in this boring little niche. They weren't using the space for anything, so I thought it would be the perfect spot for a bar. I'll put pretty glass carafes, wine glasses, trays with little vases, etc there and during parties, they can put all the dedicated wines and beverages and ice buckets along the marble counter top. I think it turned out amazing!</div>
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So that's the work in progress. I'll be sure to post more photos the further along we get.</div>
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xoxo,</div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/56/629F8FBCA0C52CF647DC739B1D7C820A.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0px none ! important;" /></a>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-46677517550144350152012-11-14T09:47:00.000-08:002012-11-14T09:47:35.828-08:00No Drown-a-versary, #8<span></span><br />
<em>So today is a heavier post. </em><br />
<br />
<em>Today is my No Drown-a-versary (as my mother calls it)- the day I can't help but remember and re-post the story of God saving my life. Today, I am grateful to be alive, grateful for God's powerful hand in my life that I will never forget, grateful for His beautiful grace and goodness towards me. In 2004, as a 19 year old college student, I was in a place in my life where I felt angry at God and distant from Him. But as He promises, all I had to do was cry out for Him to save me, and He did- no strings attached. He swooped in with love.</em><br />
<em>I wrote this the day after if happened because: "</em>His word is like a fire
shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot"
(Jeremiah 20:9).<br />
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<br />
<br />
<strong>"The Night I Almost Died"</strong><br />
<br />
I was driving home from work at Gristmill (restaurant) around 9:20pm in the mist
on slick roads when suddenly, without warning, my car slammed into 4 or
5 feet of water at a low water crossing. It was pitch black and I
didn't know where or how high the water was. I didn't know what to do. I
called Mom's cell phone and Dad picked up. I was going to tell him
that I got stuck in some water and could he come and get me. Then the
car started moving and I panicked! I hesitated before rolling down the
power windows, which by the grace of God, worked! I climbed out and was
sitting on the window ledge, frantically and incoherently screaming at
my Dad to come and get me and that I was in some water on 1863. The
signal faded because of the sudden surge of current that swept me away
from the car. The last I saw of the little green Camry was the rear end
sticking vertically out of the water- it had taken a nose-dive and was
filling up with water.<br />
<br />
The current swept me away into pure blackness. I remember panicking
and thinking, "is this it, God? Is this how I'm going to die?" The
current was so swift and sucked me under the water. I kicked and
paddled trying to stay afloat and keep my head above the masses of
debris that were piling up. Once or twice I got sucked underwater and
debris piled up over my head. I was scared it I wouldn't be able to
come back up for air, that too much debris would accumulate over my
head. I fought and kicked and paddled to stay on the water's surface. I
was freezing and could barely feel my limbs. I tried grabbing some of
the cliff's edge as the water rushed me past it, but there was nothing
to grab. I screamed, "Jesus save me!" I had read about stories in
which some one drowns because they kick and tire themselves out. So I
floated on my back like they tell you to in swim lessons and life guard
training. I'm not sure how long I floated.<br />
<br />
Miraculously, a medium sized tree branch floated by and I grabbed
onto it. It proved to be a stable flotation device. I just hung onto it
and began yelling, "Help! I'm in the water! My car got swept away." My
voice echoed on the cliffs and some houses on the hilltops began
turning their lights on. I kept yelling. My own voice scared me as it
echoed in that canyon-like space- it sounded scared and pitiful. The
water slowed down around a bend in the creek and I kicked my legs,
still clinging to the log until I got across to the left side of the
bank where it was soft and muddy and full of bushes.<br />
<br />
I climbed up the side of the bank and looked for any kind of light.
"Jesus, save me." My cell phone was still in my hand. Of course, it
didn't work. There was some sort of light in the distance. I yelled and
yelled. I saw only headlights in the water from a car. I started
running through the brush hoping I would find a house and someone could
help me. I continued yelling and running. I hoped I wouldn't
hyperventilate- I was so scared. "God, don't forget about me. Help me!"
I ran through this dark bushy area, bumping into trees and getting
caught in brush- it was so dark out there. I finally saw a barbed wire
fence. I hoped it lead to someone's property, so I climbed over the
fence, and found the painted stripe of the road! I had never been so
happy to see 1863! There were blinking lights! I went further a little
ways down the road to exactly the low water crossing that had swept me
away. On the other side were 2 ambulences and about 3 police cars along
with some trucks of neighbors. I screamed and waved my arms and ran
towards them. "I'm over here! My name is Stephanie! My car got swept
away! Come and get me!" Their flood lights hit me along with a surge of
relief. "God, thank you for saving me! Thank you!"<br />
<br />
EMS didn't do anything. They just stood there. I don't think they
could hear me over the roar of the rushing water. I kept yelling, "Can
you send someone from New Braunfels?" I thought, surely they were
radioing New Braunfels and in 15-20 minutes an ambulance would come
from behind me and rescue me. I was freezing. I felt every breeze. I
realized that my standing still on the roadside would only make me
colder. I just wanted to sit. What about hypothermia? I sure could be
in danger of it! So I jumped up and down to keep warm. I jumped up and
down and prayed.<br />
<br />
I prayed that God would fill me with His Holy Spirit, that He'd give
me strength and warmth and endurance. I mostly prayed for warmth. I
prayed that He wouldn't let me pass out, that I'd stay conscious, that I
wouldn't get hypothermia. I prayed for supernatural warmth. I reminded
God of His Word, "God, you've engraved me on the palm of Your Hand.
You promised not to forget me! You also said you know the plans you
have for me, plans to prosper me, not to harm me. Plans to give me a
hope and a future. Thank you God that you have a plan for me! Oh Lord,
you aren't finished with me yet! Thank you for saving me! Thank you for
saving me! Thank you that you created me in my mother's womb and
knowing me completely even then. Thank you that you aren't done with
me. There is still a chance for you to grow me to be that Proverbs 31
woman!" I prayed for my parents that they would have peace and God
would help them to not be worried.<br />
<br />
I thought I saw a light in the distance behind me on the road, so I
started yelling for help, that I was on the side of the road. I heard
some man's voice, but couldn't make out what he was saying. I thought
that someone on the New Braunfel's side just couldn't find me.<br />
<br />
The flood lights across from me began to turn off. "NO!!! Don't
leave me!" Then a voice on a bullhorn said, "Ma'am, we're not going to
leave you. Help is on the way." I continued jumping to stay warm and
began to pray for someone to come from New Braunfels. What I didn't
know was that I was caught between 2 low water crossings. I was stuck
in the middle. I didn't know at the time that my Dad and EMS were at
the New Braunfels side of the water crossing looking for me, not seeing
the car and thinking I was dead. "Jump up and down if you're name is
Stephanie," the bullhorn said. So I jumped higher and waved my arms
frantically screaming "Yes!" I wondered if mom and dad were among the
people with EMS standing near the flood lights. At one point I called
out, "Mom! Dad!" But no one could hear me over the rushing water. I
continued praying for the Power of the Holy Spirit and for someone to
come from the other way.<br />
<br />
Eventually, headlights came towards me from behind. I turned and
waved to get their attention. They slowed down and told me to get in.
They asked if my name was Stephanie. I said yes and that I live in Rim
Rock Ranch and was driving home from work in New Braunfels. They began
radioing someone saying they'd found me. They said I'd be staying with
them tonight.<br />
<br />
They took me to their house at a shooting range. Mr. Ferris and his
son took me inside, where Mrs. Ferris handed me towels and sweats to
change into and the phone to call my parents. I called my mom to tell
her I was okay. She told me to call my dad. When I called him, he was
still at the water crossing on New Braunfel's side and he cried. Mrs.
Ferris had already called them to tell them that they'd found me, but
they wanted to hear my voice. When I went into the bathroom to dry off
and change, I saw that I had cattails and thistles tangled up in my
hair. My formerly white shirts were khaki-ish brown and one sleeve was
torn. Debris was all in my hair and all over me. I left a trail of it
where ever I walked. I couldn't believe I was safe. The previous hour
and a half seemed completely surreal and UNreal. I wanted to cry and
tell God how thankful I was, but no tears would come. I just thanked God
over and over in the simplest words.<br />
<br />
I stayed at the Ferris's overnight. They were incredibly nice to me
and took care of me. They lived in the only house on the hill stuck
between those two low water crossings. They had taken care of a couple
people in floods before. I told them how God had saved me. The next
morning, when the water went down, my Dad came to get me. We went home.
I was so glad to be home.<br />
<br />
I am so blessed to be alive today. God had His Hand on my life. He
saved me. He's the only reason I am alive. He's not done with me yet.
If I had died that night, I would have felt that my life had had barely
any value to the Kingdom of God. But I have another chance, more life
for God to use. I really believe He has a plan for me and that it
wasn't fulfilled yet, so He brought me through this whole ordeal in one
piece to accomplish what He planned for my life before I was even
born. He still has something for me to do in life. I'm so thankful that
He's allowing me to fulfill that purpose, whatever it is.<br />
<br />
I have prayed that this story would be written in an unexaggerated
way, that God would use this story (even in written form) for His
glory. The clearest point that I need to make, if not clear enough yet,
is: God saved my life! I did none of this in my own strength. I could
not have done it! I am a girly city girl. I could not have survived
this on my own! And God protected me from being harmed, from breaking
bones, concussions, and all of that! And I am so incredibly grateful
for everyone who prayed for me. God saved my life! I hope this
testimony of God's unmovable will, amazing power, loving protection,
and undeserved grace towards me blesses others and gives testimony to
how I am now changed because of it.<br />
<br />
Psalm116:1-9<br />
I love the Lord because He hears and answers my prayers. He bends
down and listens. I will pray as long as I have breath! Death had its
hands around my throat; the terrors of the grave overtook me. I saw
only trouble and sorrow. Then I called on the name of the Lord:
"Please, Lord, save me!" How kind the Lord is! How good He is! So
merciful, this God of ours! The Lord protects those of childlike faith;
I was facing death, and then He saved me. Now I can rest again, for
the Lord has been so good to me. He has saved me from death, my eyes
from tears, my feet from stumbling. And so I walk in the Lord's
presence as I live here on earth!<br />
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(Two months later, after the waters went down, we got a call from a guy saying he found my car on his property. We went out to the bottom of his almost dry creekbed and found this. My keys with my college ID keychain were still in the ignition.)<br />
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xoxo,
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<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/56/629F8FBCA0C52CF647DC739B1D7C820A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-58232435796467136102012-11-13T08:00:00.000-08:002012-11-13T08:00:01.575-08:00iPhoto DumpI am up to my elbows in project ideas for Baby Gahm. Really, I might be getting out of control. Here are some ideas dumped via my iPhone. HowAmIGoingToDoItAll????<br />
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<a href="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/11/09/1281.jpg"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/11/09/s_1281.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="238" /></a></center>
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Color swatches for the triangle quilt I want to make with my mama. </div>
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Here is the quilt pattern I found online. SO Cute. Going to tweak the colors to the above swatch colors.</div>
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Freaking adorable baby booties. Love the two-toned ones! I'm always looking for something to keep my hands busy in the evenings while watching TV.</div>
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I scored this heinous glider on Craigslist for $30- yep $30, ottoman included. Take it to my mom's over Thanksgiving to give it a new white coat of paint and freshly reuphosltered cushions. I'm thinking a charcoal grey would be perfect. </div>
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<a href="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/11/09/1285.jpg"><img border="0" height="281" src="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/11/09/s_1285.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="210" /></a></center>
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Dragged my sweet man to Kuhl Linscomb's kiddie section last weekend and he immediately LOVED this board book and asked to put it on the registry. My sweet non-conformist artist man.</div>
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Giraffes- so so cute.</div>
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- SG, Posted from my iPhoneStephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-79401096352247622362012-11-12T08:00:00.000-08:002012-11-12T08:00:10.332-08:00Little Girls<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/157485318191267483/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="580" src="http://media-cache0.pinterest.com/upload/110267890847797241_9scx3fMm_c.jpg" width="387" /></a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://www.pinksugarland.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/0929a.jpg" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">pinksugarland.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/livablemachine/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Stephanie</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://www.thebabyblackbird.com/2012/10/mini-street-style-98/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">thebabyblackbird.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/livablemachine/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Stephanie</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://www.darthurazoe.blogspot.com/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">darthurazoe.blogspot.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/livablemachine/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Stephanie</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://crushculdesac.tumblr.com/post/12792131332" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">crushculdesac.tumblr.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/livablemachine/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Stephanie</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://kenziepoo.com/2011/01/things-i-love-monday-65/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">kenziepoo.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/livablemachine/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Stephanie</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://jenloveskev.com/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">jenloveskev.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/livablemachine/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Stephanie</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://www.zara.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/category/11719/en/zara-S2011/60505/Kids" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">zara.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/livablemachine/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Stephanie</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://chakradesignstudio.bigcartel.com/product/virginia-skort-red-vase" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">chakradesignstudio.bigcartel.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/livablemachine/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Stephanie</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://www.freshlypickedblog.com/2011/04/jumpsuit.html" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">freshlypickedblog.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/livablemachine/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Stephanie</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://cdn.next.co.uk/Common/Items/Default/Default/Publications/G35/shotview/4002/702-737-G35s.jpg" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">cdn.next.co.uk</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/livablemachine/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Stephanie</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://www.caramel-shop.co.uk/lookbook/?category=15" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">caramel-shop.co.uk</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/livablemachine/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Stephanie</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/157485318189101898/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://media-cache-ec4.pinterest.com/upload/49117452155488188_S5qudSdH_c.jpg" width="475" /></a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://pollygonfolk.tumblr.com/post/1403386959" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">pollygonfolk.tumblr.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/livablemachine/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Stephanie</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/157485318189101931/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="401" src="http://media-cache-ec2.pinterest.com/upload/282671314081167286_PsbZpBA8_c.jpg" width="600" /></a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/thomaslife/4508639159/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">flickr.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/livablemachine/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Stephanie</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/157485318189126431/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="756" src="http://media-cache-ec3.pinterest.com/upload/157485318189126431_Xqz5jiZ5_c.jpg" width="470" /></a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://ohjoy.blogs.com/my_weblog/oh-baby/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">ohjoy.blogs.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/livablemachine/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Stephanie</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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Just indulging in a little daydreaming about Little Girl Gahm. We got to see her in an impromptu ultrasound this week (she's fine and I'm fine). Having lots of fun thinking about how to dress her, what she'll look like and what her little personality will be like. Only 4 more months!<br />
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xoxo,<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/56/629F8FBCA0C52CF647DC739B1D7C820A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-12497684244222970442012-11-10T16:27:00.003-08:002012-11-10T16:27:55.844-08:00 <div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/157485318191265265/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="709" src="http://media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com/upload/193865958930191353_S63vD22D_c.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m701cq8J1q1qax3b4o1_500.jpg" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">25.media.tumblr.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/livablemachine/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Stephanie</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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Ain't it the truth?</div>
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xoxo,
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/56/629F8FBCA0C52CF647DC739B1D7C820A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-2217290190873912672012-11-09T12:10:00.000-08:002012-11-09T12:10:00.250-08:00Gilded Tribal Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_1wyoTAVUDw/UH7IO1zb9RI/AAAAAAAAEe4/ed9HtuFiudg/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-09+at+9.22.38+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="504" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_1wyoTAVUDw/UH7IO1zb9RI/AAAAAAAAEe4/ed9HtuFiudg/s640/Screen+Shot+2012-09-09+at+9.22.38+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I think I found these images in Lonny or Rue of Jane from Sea of Shoes' hometour. I'm so jealous. The gilded opulence is a bit over the top, but dang, those Platner chairs, tribal flat woven rug, and fur are yummy. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ckrssn2BsLs/UH7IRk9MgHI/AAAAAAAAEfA/aK2Mfb7DaD4/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-09+at+9.24.43+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ckrssn2BsLs/UH7IRk9MgHI/AAAAAAAAEfA/aK2Mfb7DaD4/s640/Screen+Shot+2012-09-09+at+9.24.43+PM.png" width="516" /></a></div>
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xoxo,
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/56/629F8FBCA0C52CF647DC739B1D7C820A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-45565132124893891552012-11-07T11:57:00.003-08:002012-11-07T11:57:52.620-08:00Modern Farmhouse<div style="text-align: center;">
Just wanted to share these beautiful images that have been circulating the blogosphere (thanks for <a href="http://blackeiffel.blogspot.com/2012/10/modern-farmhouse.html">Black Eiffel</a> and <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/55380270389152602/">Simple Lovely</a> for sharing them too!). The <a href="http://houseandhome.com/design/photo-gallery-2012-princess-margaret-showhome">Canadian House and Home 2012 Showhouse </a>is stunning! The design of this modern farmhouse just goes to show that a clean aesthetic doesn't have to be stark to feel modern and urban.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rS8FD2cLDu8/UJq2dEdIXHI/AAAAAAAAEgU/nict8AZetqY/s1600/1-exterior-front-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="539" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rS8FD2cLDu8/UJq2dEdIXHI/AAAAAAAAEgU/nict8AZetqY/s640/1-exterior-front-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Gorgeous exterior! I love the natural elements of stone and the lovely green landscaping with the metal roof and window frames. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Design credit goes to LR Design Study for the interior design and Murakami Design for the archectectual design. The PCM Project and Construction Management Group did a killer job executing the design too.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tzy7v1JSv4Y/UJq2jvzNcjI/AAAAAAAAEhU/m76z4EJv48E/s1600/2-aerial-great-room-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="539" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tzy7v1JSv4Y/UJq2jvzNcjI/AAAAAAAAEhU/m76z4EJv48E/s640/2-aerial-great-room-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The family room has a palette of rich neutrals full of textures and variety of materials. I especially love the kilim rug and poufs (from West Elm). <span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sofa is from Ralph Lauren, coffee table from Michel Zelnik and drapery fabric from Kravet.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8VX7j0dWQ_M/UJq2ki7w19I/AAAAAAAAEhc/KgPpdWDvNlw/s1600/22-entryway-console-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8VX7j0dWQ_M/UJq2ki7w19I/AAAAAAAAEhc/KgPpdWDvNlw/s640/22-entryway-console-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" width="515" /></a></div>
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Great grey-washed entry table with a few sparse glazed urns and a large sepia toned photograph. Love the equestrian touch!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qPcNrAIaxpk/UJq2las_URI/AAAAAAAAEhk/GNyaZadJJbY/s1600/23-great-room-drawers-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qPcNrAIaxpk/UJq2las_URI/AAAAAAAAEhk/GNyaZadJJbY/s640/23-great-room-drawers-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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That door.... it gets me. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">From <a href="http://www.blissnoram.com/" target="_blank">Bliss Nor-Am Doors & Windows</a>.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-83mpl4jsLhk/UJq2mOwGq9I/AAAAAAAAEhs/TIwlN5HD2QE/s1600/3-dining-room-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-83mpl4jsLhk/UJq2mOwGq9I/AAAAAAAAEhs/TIwlN5HD2QE/s640/3-dining-room-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" width="534" /></a></div>
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One of my very favorite rooms in the space! That chandelier is amazing (Currey and Co). </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Table, slipcovered end chairs, Boo Boo &
Lefty; side chairs,woven urns, ferns, wall cabinet, Cocoon
Furnishings; artwork by Elsha Leventis, In2art Gallery; demilune chest, Absolutely
Inc.; mirror, Elte.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VUeO0dIoZfg/UJq2mmkkdaI/AAAAAAAAEh0/48NrEee3WjM/s1600/4-kitchen-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="539" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VUeO0dIoZfg/UJq2mmkkdaI/AAAAAAAAEh0/48NrEee3WjM/s640/4-kitchen-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The clean white marble with sooty black lower cabinets and no uppers is such a modern feel. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mlM5V31mBCc/UJq2nkS3HSI/AAAAAAAAEh8/b0PTSTS_3xQ/s1600/7-kitchen-island-appliances-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mlM5V31mBCc/UJq2nkS3HSI/AAAAAAAAEh8/b0PTSTS_3xQ/s640/7-kitchen-island-appliances-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0bS6q_jOyRM/UJq2omza-WI/AAAAAAAAEiE/KuagIicnPeA/s1600/8-kitchen-aga-range-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0bS6q_jOyRM/UJq2omza-WI/AAAAAAAAEiE/KuagIicnPeA/s640/8-kitchen-aga-range-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" width="488" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UCgFcceZUXA/UJq2pb7vliI/AAAAAAAAEiM/2yizQEC614o/s1600/9-kitchen-freestanding-unit-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="539" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UCgFcceZUXA/UJq2pb7vliI/AAAAAAAAEiM/2yizQEC614o/s640/9-kitchen-freestanding-unit-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-unpVQ1urHhg/UJq2d5fantI/AAAAAAAAEgc/E8Dw1iAghmU/s1600/10-kitchen-table-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-unpVQ1urHhg/UJq2d5fantI/AAAAAAAAEgc/E8Dw1iAghmU/s640/10-kitchen-table-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" width="620" /></a></div>
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Love the faux Bertoia Chairs and Sarenin table.</div>
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<strong></strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">Table, <a href="http://www.elte.com/" target="_blank">Elte</a>; chairs, <a href="http://www.upcountry.com/uc/" target="_blank">UpCountry</a>.</span></div>
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The family room off from the kitchen is small, but soft and inviting.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Coffee table, West Elm; floor lamps, Pottery
Barn; side chairs, TV easel, Elizabeth Interiors; side chairs' fabric,
Designer Fabrics; sofa, Stacaro.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f1eWOKiG0dU/UJq2fcXPeiI/AAAAAAAAEgs/TiCZ68tqpk4/s1600/12-nanawall-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f1eWOKiG0dU/UJq2fcXPeiI/AAAAAAAAEgs/TiCZ68tqpk4/s640/12-nanawall-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" width="516" /></a></div>
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Again, I'm totally enamored with these doors. The exterior glass door system is also incredible- so much natural light! <span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">They are from NanaWall Systems; console, Crate & Barrel; artwork by Karen Whylie, Art Interiors.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-11g27jzcT8o/UJq2gRgZylI/AAAAAAAAEg0/-Ss-lqBjboA/s1600/13-study-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-11g27jzcT8o/UJq2gRgZylI/AAAAAAAAEg0/-Ss-lqBjboA/s640/13-study-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" width="514" /></a></div>
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Vibrant royal and clemintine colored study is so bright, but still works with the natural architectural elements. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sofa are from Crate and Barrel, armchairs from Coccoon Furnishings; coffee
table, Hollace Cluny; throw pillow fabrics, Lee Jofa showroom; artwork by
Annette Kraft van Ermel, In2art Gallery; metal
doors, Bliss Nor-Am Doors & Windows.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FB2Ws90wWQQ/UJq2iHqQlXI/AAAAAAAAEhE/RicwEyeLiB8/s1600/15-guest-bedroom-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FB2Ws90wWQQ/UJq2iHqQlXI/AAAAAAAAEhE/RicwEyeLiB8/s640/15-guest-bedroom-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" width="532" /></a></div>
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Beautiful bedroom with seagrass rug, clean headboard (Elizabeth Interiors), industrial chandelier, and ghost chair paired with a farm house style desk.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Bedding quilts, throws, stump stools, chair, West Elm; floor lamps, clock,
trunks, accent pillows, wire baskets, Pottery Barn; throw pillow, HomeSense; area rug, Elte; </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-evWYDx05WLg/UJq2i8lhARI/AAAAAAAAEhM/eurQrH4br4o/s1600/16-twin-beds-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-evWYDx05WLg/UJq2i8lhARI/AAAAAAAAEhM/eurQrH4br4o/s640/16-twin-beds-house-home-2012-princess-margaret-showhome-mgraydon.jpg" width="536" /></a></div>
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Kid room is colorful and bright and still in line with the rest of the house.</div>
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I could totally live in this house. Could you? Too sparse? Not enough color? Too much? <br />
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xoxo,
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/56/629F8FBCA0C52CF647DC739B1D7C820A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-36317509958767784322012-11-02T12:35:00.000-07:002012-11-02T12:35:45.833-07:00Pretties<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Just wanted to post some pretties today. I've been working on a bright white kitchen for a client that is going to be dreamy, but just needed a place to dump some pretty design ideas of a different feel and style. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Pmk5SvvlHg/UJQbt6_CdNI/AAAAAAAAEfc/GKOhg4tQvE4/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-11-02+at+2.12.49+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="412" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Pmk5SvvlHg/UJQbt6_CdNI/AAAAAAAAEfc/GKOhg4tQvE4/s640/Screen+Shot+2012-11-02+at+2.12.49+PM.png" width="640" /></a>Swooning over this dark kitchen! The designer, Tamara Kaye-Honey knocked out the dividing wall between living room and kitchen and make a room divider/bookcase/breakfast bar. Such a great idea for small spaces! I think I love the color combination most of all- that dark grey with the medium walnut wood and touches of brass. It's midcentury, but also modern and classic.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bWwQ3CN7-jI/UJQeL18f9zI/AAAAAAAAEfk/CuYMRsMt5uY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-11-02+at+2.17.09+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bWwQ3CN7-jI/UJQeL18f9zI/AAAAAAAAEfk/CuYMRsMt5uY/s640/Screen+Shot+2012-11-02+at+2.17.09+PM.png" width="490" /></a></div>
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Modern dining room. Love everything: the chandelier, the chrome trim on the chairs, warm wood floors, grey leather, and the powder lilac paint color. <br />
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I'm always a sucker for anything zebra print (I wonder when I will get tired of it?)- such a graphic pop. But that built-in bar cabinet is so glam! Love the vintage-inspired wallpaper inside, and the brass on mirror accents outside!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v5VnGnUswaI/UJQeQdfPNpI/AAAAAAAAEf0/JuN6bfOhEcg/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-11-02+at+2.22.26+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v5VnGnUswaI/UJQeQdfPNpI/AAAAAAAAEf0/JuN6bfOhEcg/s640/Screen+Shot+2012-11-02+at+2.22.26+PM.png" width="490" /></a></div>
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I love how all the available surfaces are treated: orange lacquered ceiling, herringbone painted floor, and seagrass papered walls! Those funky chairs are a great silhouette too!<br />
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That graphic painting- makes the neutral room, don't you think?<br />
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xoxo,<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/56/629F8FBCA0C52CF647DC739B1D7C820A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-48608473121957019202012-10-11T20:59:00.003-07:002012-11-10T16:50:59.212-08:00Ideas for Baby Gahm <a href="http://www.olioboard.com/boards/141758" target="_blank"><img alt="Baby Gahm " src="http://boards.olioboard.com.s3.amazonaws.com/141758_original.jpg" /></a><br />
Made this moodboard for my ideas for Baby Gahm's nursery. Colors will change a bit once I know the gender. For instance, the Campaign Chest Ikea hack would be cobalt blue if baby is a boy and will stay raspberry if it's a girl.<br />
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Obsessed with this triangle quilt and am determined to make my own, again colors may change. I think it works with the geometric mobile too.<br />
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I want the walls a nice grey.<br />
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My mother in law bought me that poster for the artwork- it's the alphabet according to MCM designs.<br />
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I'm obsessed with giraffes for this baby- could be cute boy or girl. I've already purchased a Sophie, cuz I couldn't help myself. Too adorable.<br />
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I also want to add some Scamp and Wanderlusters artwork too... maybe we'll use some of our personal photos from 2009.<br />
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xoxo,
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<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/56/629F8FBCA0C52CF647DC739B1D7C820A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-81667421905858070712012-09-20T10:14:00.003-07:002012-09-20T10:14:45.287-07:00Nate Berkus... is coming to Target!<div style="text-align: center;">
I realize I am slow to get in the loop on this, but I just found out that Nate Berkus is doing a line of home accessories at Target this fall. I'm giddy.</div>
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Remember <a href="http://livablemachine.blogspot.com/2011/04/i-do-love-you-new-york.html">that time I was in NYC at the Trad Home Magazine Launch Party</a> and I saw <a href="http://nateberkusdesign.com/#/home">Nate Berkus </a>from afar and totally geeked out, didn't ask for a picture or a handshake, but just watched him like a hawk from the other side of the room? Yah. I love him. </div>
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Here are some images of his beautiful design work:</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">all photos from <a href="http://www.nateberkusdesign.com/">www.NateBerkusdesign.com</a><a href="http://nateberkusdesign.com/#/interiors">http://nateberkusdesign.com/#/interiors</a></td></tr>
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Well.... Target is launching a line of home accessories by Nate on October 21st! I am giddy! Take a peek at these:</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.copycatchic.com/2012/09/new-for-fall-from-threshold-at-target.html">images from CopyCatChic</a></td></tr>
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Love them all! What's your favorite? I think the jute rug and the gold pillow are mine. My friend Lauren and I are contemplating camping out for some of this cool stuff when they launch the line! Yes, we're a little crazy.<br />
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xoxo,
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/56/629F8FBCA0C52CF647DC739B1D7C820A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-29809026804998141352012-09-17T19:46:00.005-07:002012-09-17T19:46:59.114-07:00Beh-behs on the Brain<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For all you unfortunate souls following me on Pinterest, you know I've been posting approximately 9875235485 pictures of baby stuff. Sorry. I can't help it. I know I have 5 1/2 more months to go cooking this bun in the oven, but I'm just so excited, I can't stop. Can't. Stop. Pinning.</div>
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I think my thoughts are beginning to resemble pins now. Just this morning as I was waking up, I said, "Oh my gosh, I know how we should decorate the baby's nursery." My man smiled and said "shhh." I wait .5 seconds before blurting out "BABY WANDERLUSTER!" He smiled and went back to sleep. </div>
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I was thinking about how everything I'm obsessing over for my registry is travel related, so it would be cute to do a camper-themed nursery. </div>
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THEN I remembered pinning this several months ago:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WqxD_1flKTs/UFfcrObU_XI/AAAAAAAAEcY/I3DU6kdCjM0/s1600/happy-little-camper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WqxD_1flKTs/UFfcrObU_XI/AAAAAAAAEcY/I3DU6kdCjM0/s640/happy-little-camper.jpg" width="274" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little Scamper via <a href="http://laybabylay.com/happy-little-camper/">Lay Baby Lay</a></td></tr>
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See? I'm so obsessed with Pinterest, I can't even remember that I pinned this. That's sad, my friends. Anyway, I've been loving the idea of a midcentury vibed nursery, with a crib and our cool vintage dresser that will become the changing table. But those are the only pieces I have in mind. </div>
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I know I want to do a neutral base, grey walls, with navy accents, medium walnut wood finishes, and some silver and brass accents, with a stripe/chevron/some graphic.... once I know the gender, I will throw in either fuschia and acid green or tangerine and acid green.... I think.... </div>
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And THEN I saw this: </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EnjsN-kMEAw/UFfcfM-woWI/AAAAAAAAEcQ/2ffPxU1U2uE/s1600/babe01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="362" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EnjsN-kMEAw/UFfcfM-woWI/AAAAAAAAEcQ/2ffPxU1U2uE/s400/babe01.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little Indians, via <a href="http://mariahinafrica.blogspot.com/2011/05/babys-room.html">Size Too Small</a></td></tr>
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So. Darn. Cute. I think I have to have a teepee. I mean... have to. I like that this look could go more tribal and neutral if I wanted to leave out the bright colors.... good option.</div>
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So that's the general direction I'm thinking with Baby Gahm's abode. Thanks for listening to my excited rambling. :)</div>
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xoxo,<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/56/629F8FBCA0C52CF647DC739B1D7C820A.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0px none ! important;" /></a>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-53269123404782018592012-09-13T19:58:00.001-07:002012-09-13T19:58:11.273-07:00Shoppin'Went antique shopping for a client the other day and found such a treasure trove of goodies. Had to share these iPhone snaps with you!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/13/2952.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/13/s_2952.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Love the mirrored Nesting tables!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/13/2954.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/13/s_2954.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Acrylic coffee table<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/13/2956.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/13/s_2956.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/13/2957.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/13/s_2957.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I want this zinc top farmhouse table- for me.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/13/2958.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/13/s_2958.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Sally Wheat vignette- cool marble pieces.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/13/2959.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/13/s_2959.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Darling vintage liquor set!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/13/2960.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/13/s_2960.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/13/2961.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/13/s_2961.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/13/2962.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/13/s_2962.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Acrylic pedestal bases for a glass top table! Love this idea!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/13/2963.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/13/s_2963.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Beautiful console<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/13/2964.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/13/s_2964.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Then I stopped at Kuhl Linscomb and saw this mini bertoia chair.... And almost died at the cuteness. I mean really? I think Baby Gahm needs this.<br /><br /><br />- SG, Posted from my iPhone<br />Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-62150901153410496982012-09-10T10:10:00.001-07:002012-09-10T10:10:30.854-07:00DwellStudio Fabrics<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm kind of obsessed with <a href="http://www.dwellstudio.com/">DwellStudio</a>. Yes, I am. I adore the bedding. And the midcentury furniture and accessories are fabulous too.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UAbYFnelXwc/UE4dAOh7VNI/AAAAAAAAEbU/BlTOBouJNQI/s1600/Screen+Shot+2012-09-10+at+12.00.45+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="335" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UAbYFnelXwc/UE4dAOh7VNI/AAAAAAAAEbU/BlTOBouJNQI/s400/Screen+Shot+2012-09-10+at+12.00.45+PM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">order their catalog for more eye candy, like this</td></tr>
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And I think my wildest dreams are coming true: DwellStudio is launching a fabric line through <a href="http://www.robertallendesign.com/">Robert Allen</a>. YES!</div>
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Here are a few pics from <a href="http://lonnymag.com/">Lonny</a> and <a href="http://goodbonesgreatpieces.com/2012/09/dwell-studio-x-robert-allen-fabrics/">Great Bones Good Pieces</a>. Seriously, I love.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wM8za8cCCuI/UE4cpiaHNDI/AAAAAAAAEa0/dBCld2W4VFE/s1600/dwell1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wM8za8cCCuI/UE4cpiaHNDI/AAAAAAAAEa0/dBCld2W4VFE/s400/dwell1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">love the green marbled fabric!</td></tr>
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That green fabric would look amazing upholstering an French-style Bergere, like this: </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_O3tSnzdB2g/UE4egdLt86I/AAAAAAAAEbc/HglRm7MpF0M/s1600/softsurroundings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_O3tSnzdB2g/UE4egdLt86I/AAAAAAAAEbc/HglRm7MpF0M/s400/softsurroundings.jpg" width="390" /></a></div>
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And that floral wants to be some fun draperies! Or a tight-upholstered ottoman</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4mlYDHxNZ0s/UE4cqoyUWDI/AAAAAAAAEa8/TXiT0qNjBH0/s1600/dwell5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4mlYDHxNZ0s/UE4cqoyUWDI/AAAAAAAAEa8/TXiT0qNjBH0/s400/dwell5.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">fabrics on display along with some of their furniture pieces</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mjqcs66galw/UE4cr1FE-QI/AAAAAAAAEbE/x2s3UIKOFPE/s1600/dwell9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mjqcs66galw/UE4cr1FE-QI/AAAAAAAAEbE/x2s3UIKOFPE/s400/dwell9.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">some of the inspiration behind the fabric collection</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K1NfKXaYpS0/UE4ctPtYQEI/AAAAAAAAEbM/CqJp6QzGfsA/s1600/featuredwell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K1NfKXaYpS0/UE4ctPtYQEI/AAAAAAAAEbM/CqJp6QzGfsA/s400/featuredwell.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DwellStudio's founder and Creative Director, Christiane Lemieux</td></tr>
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These will be available next month through Robert Allen! I'll be running to the Design Center as soon as they are! Cannot wait!</div>
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See any you like?<br />
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xoxo,<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/56/629F8FBCA0C52CF647DC739B1D7C820A.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0px none ! important;" /></a>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-34796740899931093422012-09-06T12:33:00.000-07:002012-09-06T12:33:00.178-07:00Lonny is my dream mag<div style="text-align: center;">
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You guys, I love <a href="http://www.lonnymag.com/">Lonny Mag</a>. Really. Everytime I <strike>remember to</strike> browse through it, my creativity is inspired!</div>
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Here are some of my favorite images from the latest issue (eye candy):</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ABc8Be-jBcg/UEel836WM1I/AAAAAAAAEZc/wDBx0rpnzKk/s1600/LA.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ABc8Be-jBcg/UEel836WM1I/AAAAAAAAEZc/wDBx0rpnzKk/s640/LA.JPG" width="492" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love you, LA</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MxdnDUHKKXo/UEel9sBlw3I/AAAAAAAAEZg/7Y5xPJLJAFc/s1600/Lonny.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MxdnDUHKKXo/UEel9sBlw3I/AAAAAAAAEZg/7Y5xPJLJAFc/s640/Lonny.JPG" width="492" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mmm, love a moody bookcase (from Dwell Studios)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Sf5tffhby0/UEel-PREI0I/AAAAAAAAEZs/0Vc1bIOEBTk/s1600/kitchen.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Sf5tffhby0/UEel-PREI0I/AAAAAAAAEZs/0Vc1bIOEBTk/s640/kitchen.JPG" width="502" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">adorable kitchen, with Wisteria barstools, and cute open shelves and knick-knacks</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wGusgcHhEPg/UEel-9jILvI/AAAAAAAAEZ0/C0sbONWFPVc/s1600/kitchentable.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wGusgcHhEPg/UEel-9jILvI/AAAAAAAAEZ0/C0sbONWFPVc/s640/kitchentable.JPG" width="488" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wish this was my breakfast nook. How cozy!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LDnfnq1woaU/UEel_m9DeAI/AAAAAAAAEZ8/iBEDbfGWpgs/s1600/red.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LDnfnq1woaU/UEel_m9DeAI/AAAAAAAAEZ8/iBEDbfGWpgs/s640/red.JPG" width="508" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">loving the farmhouse style table, zebra cafe curtains, industrial chandelier, and pop of red!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sukbzI8Ryjo/UEenRJxOZjI/AAAAAAAAEaE/bp1EdE_wOHo/s1600/lonnyCapture.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sukbzI8Ryjo/UEenRJxOZjI/AAAAAAAAEaE/bp1EdE_wOHo/s640/lonnyCapture.JPG" width="498" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">drool, amazing application of Black Crow Studios Wallpaper!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pp5Krg-hSss/UEenffdsajI/AAAAAAAAEaM/Cmz7a0RMaYI/s1600/livingroom.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="475" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pp5Krg-hSss/UEenffdsajI/AAAAAAAAEaM/Cmz7a0RMaYI/s640/livingroom.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fun living room- but I really love that swirly marbled green malachite-y wallpaper in the entry!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4xVreX7lSGM/UEeog0dHp-I/AAAAAAAAEaU/-pZ4hQxpoio/s1600/zCapture.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="257" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4xVreX7lSGM/UEeog0dHp-I/AAAAAAAAEaU/-pZ4hQxpoio/s400/zCapture.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">such an unexpectedly soft and retro bedroom</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-51fhRbEQMB8/UEeohv2081I/AAAAAAAAEac/YU0K1qUSBuw/s1600/zaCapture.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="311" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-51fhRbEQMB8/UEeohv2081I/AAAAAAAAEac/YU0K1qUSBuw/s400/zaCapture.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I always adore inky walls</td></tr>
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Oh Lonny, you never disappoint.<br />
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See any trends you like? Any trends you hate?<br />
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I'm all ears. :)<br />
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xoxo,<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/56/629F8FBCA0C52CF647DC739B1D7C820A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-89235520932386162812012-09-05T12:16:00.003-07:002012-09-05T12:16:53.901-07:00Watery dreams<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am crazy for Black Crow Studios Watercolor wallpaper. Look how amazing and colorful these wallpapers make the space! It's like living in an ethereal watercolor! </div>
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Love the girly mauve and the pop of kelly green!</div>
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This is my favorite image! I think you could get away with bold colors like this in an entry.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3GlEsN-Hnw/UEejNH0i-YI/AAAAAAAAEYs/hMxCPUD7ssc/s1600/watercolor4Capture.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3GlEsN-Hnw/UEejNH0i-YI/AAAAAAAAEYs/hMxCPUD7ssc/s400/watercolor4Capture.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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It would also be fabulous in a dining room</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tYq80B3RLCk/UEejN2A-K4I/AAAAAAAAEY0/oxGLNaPEaNs/s1600/watercolor5Capture.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tYq80B3RLCk/UEejN2A-K4I/AAAAAAAAEY0/oxGLNaPEaNs/s400/watercolor5Capture.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I3E7qjq2zG8/UEejK77TuyI/AAAAAAAAEYY/2n-uWHdCV0g/s1600/2watercolorCapture.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I3E7qjq2zG8/UEejK77TuyI/AAAAAAAAEYY/2n-uWHdCV0g/s400/2watercolorCapture.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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As always, feel free to contact me if you are interested in anything posted here. I'd love to talk someone into using this wallpaper. ;)<br />
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All images are from <a href="http://www.blackcrowstudios.com/index2.php#/rgallery2/2/">Black Crow Studios</a>.<br />
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xoxo,
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/56/629F8FBCA0C52CF647DC739B1D7C820A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-81712921462401410492012-08-31T18:13:00.003-07:002012-08-31T18:13:59.547-07:00Guess what?<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JeOLH5iXICY/UEFg8hOtbMI/AAAAAAAAEYE/08pvZKRGmBc/s1600/531048_393353967397822_938279162_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JeOLH5iXICY/UEFg8hOtbMI/AAAAAAAAEYE/08pvZKRGmBc/s400/531048_393353967397822_938279162_n.jpg" width="76" /></a></div>
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We are expecting a baby!!!! </div>
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In March!</div>
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And we're SO excited!!!!</div>
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Stay tuned. :)</div>
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xoxo,
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/56/629F8FBCA0C52CF647DC739B1D7C820A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-62836990631162618672012-08-08T13:00:00.001-07:002012-08-08T13:00:06.797-07:00What in the world<div style="text-align: center;">
Y'all.... Justin Timberlake thinks he's a designer now. It's true. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gN6Gtv2OxZM/UCLCrDAIpRI/AAAAAAAAEXo/UkT_WdkaEQY/s1600/Capture.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gN6Gtv2OxZM/UCLCrDAIpRI/AAAAAAAAEXo/UkT_WdkaEQY/s400/Capture.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Ok, not literally. But he did pair with celebrity stylist Estee Stanly to launch a home store called <a href="http://www.homemint.com/showroom">Homemint</a>.<br />
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Part of me is jealous, like Justin, seriously, why do you have to be so good at everything?! Why can't you leave some stones unturned for the rest of us? Kidding. But seriously, this guy is a mogul. I'm only jealous because it's brilliant.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/gbeucjU7pB0?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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xoxo,
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/56/629F8FBCA0C52CF647DC739B1D7C820A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4737806463199978156.post-81558675603076979732012-07-24T12:51:00.000-07:002012-07-24T12:51:47.127-07:00It's the Little ThingsI've posted before how your home, and the state of your home, matters. It's a reflection of YOU! I saw this great post on Apartment Therapy and had to share. Hope you enjoy! I can definitely vouch for the importance of making the bed. :)<br />
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"Our homes are an extension of who we are: what we do within the walls of our abodes shapes our mood, affects our productivity, and influences our outlook on life. Scientific studies have shown that we can have an impact on our happiness by adjusting the tiny little habits and routines that constitute our daily lives — we are, in fact, in control of our outlook on life.</div>
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It's amazing how a few tweaks to our daily habits can become a catalyst for meaningful, positive change. Here are a few simple things you can do every day to feel happier at home.</div>
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1. <strong>Make your bed.</strong> In a popular post last month, I explained the many <a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/make-your-bed-it-just-might-make-you-productive-profitable-and-peaceful-173046" style="color: #ff7300; text-decoration: none;">benefits of daily bed-making</a>. Gretchen Rubin, New York Times best-selling author of <em>The Happiness Project,</em> explains that this three minute task is one of the simplest habits you can adopt to positively impact your happiness.</div>
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2. <strong>Bring every room back to "ready."</strong> I learned this trick from Marilyn Paul's clever book, <em>It's Hard to Make a Difference When You Can't Find Your Keys</em>. It's a known fact: Clutter causes stress; order creates a haven from it. This mood-boosting routine is simple: Take about three minutes to bring each room back to "ready" before you depart it. (Unless you have a toddler, or a partner who likes to simulate earthquakes, three minutes should be sufficient.)</div>
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3. <strong>Display sentimental items around your home.</strong> One reason that experiences (and memories of those experiences) make us happier than material things is due to the entire cycle of enjoyment that experiences provide: planning the experience, looking forward to the experience, enjoying the experience, and then remembering the experience. Make your home a gallery of positive memories.</div>
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4. <strong>Start a one-line-a-day gratitude journal.</strong> Before bed, simply jot down one happy memory from that day. (If you have kids, you can ask them, "What was the best part of today?") Reflection is an important part of happiness, and pausing to reflect on a positive event from each day cultivates gratitude. (An added bonus: Later, when your memory is defunct, you will already have all of your meaningful adventures recorded!) If you have trouble getting started with journaling, consider buying a book to guide you. <em>Simple Abundance</em>, by Sarah Ban Breathnach, is a great one.</div>
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5. <strong>If you can't get out of it, get into it.</strong> This tip comes from <em>The Happiness Project.</em> I love the message: The dishes are not going to clean themselves, so you will do it, and you will like it! (Unless, of course, you can outsource this job, in which case I say: Nice work!) Otherwise, get <em>into</em> doing the dishes. Feel the soothing warm water on your hands. Enjoy the tickle of the tiny bubbles. Crank your favorite album at an unusually loud volume, do a couple fist-pumps while shouting "Can I get a hell yeah for the dishes? Hell! Yeah!" and pretend you love it.</div>
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6.<strong> Before you get up each morning, set an intent for the day.</strong> In <em>The Art of Happiness</em>, the Dali Lama says ""Every day, think as you wake up: today I am fortunate to be alive, I have a precious human life, I am not going to waste it." Wow. What a wise man. I tend to wake up with a strong visceral reaction that says, "Attention human beings: Be afraid of me before coffee. Be very afraid!" Setting a daily intent makes a huge difference. Your daily intent could be something like "be productive" or "enjoy today's delicious moments" or it could be something more specific like "say thank you to my loved ones today." But it should not be another "to do" item on your list.</div>
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7. <strong>Do small favors for your housemates, expecting nothing in return (not even a thank you!). </strong>(That's right, I said it: nothing!) Mow the lawn for your husband, but don't expect him to pat you on the back. Make the bed for your wife, but don't try to get bonus points for it. Take the trash out for your roommate, just because. The ability to cultivate strong, healthy relationships is one of the biggest contributors to health and happiness, but when you start to keep score, the benefit is lost. (No! It's YOUR turn to clean up the dog poop!) It's a well-known fact: When you do good, you feel good.</div>
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8. <strong>Call at least one friend or family member a day.</strong> You can do this while you clean, while you make the bed, or while you walk the dog. Texts and emails do not count! Make an actual phone call to a loved one, just to chat and catch up. We humans are social beings and studies show that even when we don't feel like it, even if we are naturally introverted, socializing with our loved ones makes us feel better.</div>
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9. <strong>Spend money on things that cultivate experiences at home.</strong> Save money for a new grill for parties or a new DVD for family movie night — something that will encourage you to have people over and entertain. Plan a summer barbeque, invite your closest friends, kick back and relax. (And don't forget to print out the pictures to remember the good times.)</div>
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10. <strong>Spend a few minutes each day connecting with something greater than yourself.</strong> Whatever your spiritual beliefs — or non-beliefs — may be, studies show that connecting to a high power is correlated with happiness. Just stepping back to realize that we are part of an enormous universe can put some perspective on your annoyance with the those-are-definitely-not-mine-and-they-are-abso-fricking-lutely-repulsive socks under the coffee table. Before bed, spend just a few minutes contemplating something larger than yourself. Take a walk in nature. Write in a journal. Create a sacred space in your home. (Or if spirituality is really not your thing, create a home spa: light some candles, soak in a hot bath, delve into a good book… are you feeling better yet?)."</div>
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<a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/10-things-that-will-make-you-happier-at-home-174151?utm_campaign=topblock&utm_medium=web&utm_source=main-entry">source</a>.</div>
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xoxo,
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<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/56/629F8FBCA0C52CF647DC739B1D7C820A.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01022177372703741723noreply@blogger.com1