Changes on the work-front got this first week of the new year off to a challenging start. Our non-profit let us go. Today is my last day there. S**t crap happens.

Someone wise told me that something good falls apart so that even better things can fall together. My main focus this weekend will be a tablescape photo shoot which Im so so excited about. Wish me luck!

Fortified with optimism, I have decided:

• that this year is going to be amazing.

• to stop to look around for the endless possibilities that await me.
• that when I get sad, I will stop being sad and be awesome instead. (via the ever wise NPH b/c Doogie is a genius)

• to not be afraid to dream bigger.

• to wear more pretty dresses.

• to not give up champagne. In fact, I think we need to get better acquainted.

• to do what I love

• purge and organize my closet.

• to make time to read more books.

• get back into kicking-ass at scrabble

And MOST important – I have decided to start living the life I imagine.

What are some of the things you have decided for this year?

To new beginnings!

Happy Weekend my friends.

xoxo

enough said.

Sapphire + Caramel + Nude.

This color palette has always been a favorite of mine but was recently kindled by Kate Middleton’s engagement ring. Mixed with warm caramel and touch of nude this palette is one for all seasons.

via

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There is nothing particularly wrong with my master bath. Its a decent size with two large windows, a shower, and a large tub with jets. Except for a few minor fixes everything works just fine. Some might even say its luxurious. So whats wrong you ask? Well, its just that it doesnt quite look like either of these.

But with a few glamorous updates Im convinced it can totally turn into a sweet escape.

To start, I want to add a vintage chandelier like this one. Yes, I know I say that about every room. Whoever said you cant?  Next I want to replace our existing floor tiles with heated marble/wood floors.

Then install double vanities with a honed carerra marble countertop and tons of storage. Followed by a glass door for the shower.

Built-in speakers for music, a cushioned chair upholstered in pretty fabric, custom towel warmers along with my existing accessories, candles, soaps,  bath salts and other bath goodies would complete the look.

And then princess can primp in style.

Oh and this little notepad would be super helpful.

What is on your bathroom makeover wishlist?

via everything fabulous, decorpad and RueMagazine

Most of you are probably back/free from your holiday travels/ social engagements etc and getting back into work. I hope you all had a good break and enjoyed your holidays. We skied on Christmas Day. Such fun!  I have so many people to thank for their hospitality and for giving me memories that bring a smile to face.

For the memories that bring a smile to your face, take the time to send your hosts a handwritten thank you card. I keep a stack in a zip lock bag in my bag which helps me stay on top of sending them.

To help you get started, here a few options that I recently came across.

thank you

dot thank you notecards

birds on a branch thank you cards

owl thank you cards

blue and white patterned blank thank you cards

Our winter home thank you cards

birdcage thank you cards

How is 2011 treating you so far?

xoxo

Wish you all a very happy new year. 2011 is going to be AWESOME!

xo

Wish you all the very best in 2011. Its going to be a GREAT year!

Happy New Year. See you in 2011. xoxo

image: erin samuell via creature comforts

Four sweet {at times sour} and wonderful years later, I cant imagine spending my life with anyone other than my darling man.

Happy Anniversary + I love you.

xoxo

Have yourselves a very merry Christmas.
xoxo

Monday before Christmas and I STILL have so many gifts to take care of. Better get to it, but really wanted to pop in here and say hello.

Sending you tons of holiday cheer for the week ahead.

xo

Before I wish you a good weekend, I want to thank each one of you for your visits and comments this week.

Your kind words keep me going. A spcial note of Thank you to dear Charlotta from the beautiful Space for Inspiration blog for a very generous and sweet post about my Little Holiday Book. Charl, this was SUCH a wonderful surprise and you are such a doll for it. You are sooo nice to me friend.

I dont know if you know this but Charlotta is a VERY talented artist too. Her paintings always make me smile. These are some of her latest ones.

Hope you spend this weekend enjoying the holiday season. Mull some wine, put on some holiday tunes, make merry and spend quality time with loves ones. I’ll see you next week.

xoxo

images: Space for inspiration and art by Charlotta Ward and pinterest via Cassandra of Coco+Kelley