Southern Sassafras

The End...

2011-10-16T08:36:00.002-04:00

For now atleast.

Since I started school and work full time, and cramming everything else into on the weekend. I don't have much time.

So for now, I won't be blogging, but you can always follow me on Pinterest.

Thank you for following me on my little blog journey!

Working Girl

2011-08-11T18:27:00.003-04:00

Last Monday I went and applied for a job at my husbands work, and I started on Tuesday.

I work for a furniture company inspecting the furniture before it is shipped out. So I've been super tired from being on my feet all day, not to mention I wear tshirts and shorts everyday, and then do nothing when I come home. So What I Wore Wednesday kinda went out the window, for now.

In 2 weeks I start school part time, 4 nights a week. And I have to wear a uniform.

So, I'm trying to get myself use to my new schedule, then I can jump back in.
Working full time again means more money which equals more weekend trips! Yay!
I'm hoping to make it to the beach in September, to me that's the perfect beach month.

But for now, I'm just trying to adjust and schedule posts!

WIWW: Week 1

2011-07-26T22:43:00.006-04:00

This summer Ive been doing a lot of nothing. Which leaves my wardrobe really lacking.
And.I.hate.it...
I've always been one to try out new things, but lately I haven't felt any inspiration, until I came along Pinterest-inspiration galore.
And every week I check out The Pleated Poppy , and I've decided to join in and give my wardrobe a boost.

Unfortunately, I only have one outfit to show you this week, because I never got around to pictures any other day.

Shirt and Vest thing: Forever 21. Shorst: Walmart Boots: Thrifted.

I wore this Monday to run errands. It's so hot lately I don't even fix my hair, every day is a variation of this pulled back hair style.

I'm hoping next week will be a little more exciting.

Cold Mountain

2011-07-20T21:23:00.005-04:00

I love this movie.

source
Have you seen it?

The movie is based on the novel by Charles Frazier,which is set in North Carolina.
I could watch movies like this ALL day.
I'm going to start the book this week, I've heard it is better than the movie.

In the meantime, I'd really like to hike to the summit of the real Cold Mountain.

If you love this book, you should check out My Old True Love by Sheila Kay Adams.
It's good too!

Living Room Update

2011-07-15T12:47:00.003-04:00

Earlier this summer, when we were in Gatlinburg, I spotted and antique store with a stack of tobacco baskets outside. We pulled in and I quickly picked one up.

When we got home it sat in my living room for a few weeks until I decided where it should go.

I really love it, I'm so glad I found one!

I've also rearranged over the couch, picking up a few more paintings at thrift stores.

In the picture, the right wall still looks like it has a huge amount of space, but standing in my living room, it's not like that.

Go figure.

60 Things I love About Summer.

2011-07-06T16:44:00.038-04:00

1 Long days
2 Lightning bugs
3 Swimming
4 Camping
5 Riding with the window down
6 Bare feet
7 Pedicures
8 Tan skin
9 The beach
10 Watermelon
11 Fresh cut grass
12 Grilled corn
14 Fresh food from the garden
14 Clotheslines
15 Screen doors slamming
16 Afternoon rain to cool it down
17 Weekend trips
18 Yard sales
19 Front porch sitting
20 Summer nights
21 Farmers Markets
22 Hiking
23 Swimming at the river
24 Bluegrass festivals
25 Sounds of a summer night
26 Ice cream
27 Cookouts
28 Flowers
29 Letting Moose swim in the river or lake
30 Hometown festivals
31 Hammocks
32 Dining outdoors at night
33 Fourth of July
34 Stargazing
35 Picnics
36 Flip flops
37 Sundresses
38 Riding my motorcycle
39 S'mores
40 Peaches
41 Front porch Gliders
42 Country songs about Summer
43 Water Balloons
44 Cut off jeans
45 Smell of the ocean
46 Smell of the mountains
47 Sweet tea
48 Sleepovers
49 Mountain swimming holes
50 Summer reading
51 The feeling of the cold air conditioning after a day outside
52 Riding bikes
53 Evening walks
54 Daisies
55 Wildflowers
56 Floppy hats
57 Hummingbirds
58 Lazy afternoons
59 Laying by the pool
60 Night swims

Break

2011-06-16T07:39:00.001-04:00

I'm in the middle of a break, computer issues!

I need a Mac!

Gatlinburg Trip

2011-05-27T12:20:00.005-04:00

We had a lazy weekend trip.
We pretty much walked around downtown Gatlinburg, shopped a little, and ate.

We did visit Cades Cove again, and saw a bear waaay off in the distance.

If you ever visit, you must go to Cades Cove!

2011-05-20T22:03:00.004-04:00

Have you heard of this? It's my new favorite obsession.

Check it out.

http://pinterest.com/southernsass

Change of Plans

2011-05-11T22:44:00.000-04:00

Rain rain, go away.

We aren't going camping because the threat of rain is pretty high, but my husband has already taken Friday off. So, we will be staying in a hotel. And we will still be visiting Cades Cove, we just won't be sleeping there!

My birthday was actually yesterday, and it was a great day! I can't wait to get away this weekend!

Camping

2011-05-02T00:05:00.003-04:00

Source

In two weeks, we are going camping for the first time. Finally!
Each year, we say we are going to go and never do. So for my birthday trip this year, we are heading to Gatlinburg to camp.

We were just there in January, but I've never been when it's warm, and I really want to see Cades Cove alive with color. So I figured why not camp? Now we will be staying at a campground in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, so it won't exactly be roughin' it. But seeing as we've never been...I don't exaclty know how this will go, so any tips and tricks are greatly appreciated!

Soon after this trip, I am looking forward to another camping trip, which will be at another spot in the park, however, this spot has no electricity, only restrooms.

So any advice is appreciated!

I'm a Little Irritated.

2011-04-29T15:01:00.002-04:00

I don't like to use my blog to complain, but over the past few days, I have see pretty much no acknowledgment to the tornadoes that hit the South.

It's really sad, I don't know how many posts I see when tragedies in other countries happen.

The South Needs You.

2011-04-28T17:47:00.002-04:00

By now, I am sure you have all seen the devastating tornadoes that ripped through our little part of the world. I have family in a few of the areas, and thank God everyone is ok. But many others, some number around 200 weren't. And thousands more have no belongings to come home to anymore.

Thankfully, we only got a small amount of rain, when they were predicting the same storms were headed our way. I've made my donation, I hope you will too.

Text "GIVE" to 80888 to make a $10 donation to the Salvation Army's tornado disaster response if you want to help victims of the storms that hit Alabama, Georgia & Mississippi. You can also text "REDCROSS" to 90999 to make a $10 donation to the American Red Cross.

House Love

2011-04-27T09:00:00.000-04:00

From House Beautiful.

I Made It!

2011-04-26T15:09:00.004-04:00

I've been itching to go to the beach the past month. So Friday morning, we got up and headed down to Myrtle Beach.

Just a quick little vacation, but it was nice.

We took our dog Moose, and he loves water but not cold water! I can't wait to take him back when it's a little warmer.

Blog Name Change?

2011-04-15T20:46:00.001-04:00

Hmm, I've always wondered if my name really fit my blog. I am thinking of a name change, I just don't know what too.

What do yall think? Is my name fitting?

19 Mile Yard Sale.

2011-04-11T13:23:00.002-04:00

This coming Saturday, the residents of Hickory Nut Gorge are hosting a 19 mile long yard sale.
The Hickory Nut Gorge include the cities of Lake Lure, Chimney Rock, Bat Cave and Gerton.

I am so excited. I have a list of things I need..like bed rails and a headboard, and I'm hoping to find them there! If you're near this area, you might want to check this out!
Plus, who doesn't want to yardsale in a place like this:

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On A Chilly, Rainy Day..

2011-03-30T16:37:00.004-04:00

This is simmering on my stove:

Along with some sweet cornbread, of which I could eat the whole pan.

And my house smells like a cozy mountain lodge, on a crisp fall day, thanks to this little thing:Yankee Candle

And The Carter Family is pumping through my speakers.
Sometimes, I love rainy days.

Picture Perfect

2011-03-28T16:18:00.006-04:00

A couple of weeks ago, I looked around my house and realized I didn't have any pictures of me and my husband, family or friends. The only ones I had were old family photos.

I didn't have anywhere else to display photos except my wall of empty frames, and I didn't want to take those down. But they are old frames with weird sizes, so my solution..

Yarn and clothespins.

Easy and cute!

This is a small collection, for now. I plan on adding more frames, and trinkets, as soon as I find them!

For more inspiration, check out the Gallery Wall Party at The Inspired room!

Lately.

2011-03-25T22:11:00.002-04:00

Sorry I've been away from blogging.
I've been out enjoy this nice sunshine!

I hope you have been too!

Spring Cleaning

2011-03-11T13:19:00.005-05:00

This week, we've had a lot of rain. So Ive taken advantage of being stuck inside and started my spring cleaning. I've really been trying to weed out everything I don't need, and organize everything I do. I also like to take this time to start switching my house from warm and cozy to light and airy. This means changing out: bedding, curtains and accessories.

It also means cleaning off the porch, washing all away all the winter grime. This year, I am going to organize all the outside things too, as soon as my husband builds my potting bench.

I have also been shopping for Spring.
The Dollar Tree has great Spring stuff. Cute pots, huge boxes of seeds, pretty gloves, lanterns and hanging baskets with liners, I plan on planting some Impatiants in those.

I love Spring Cleaning, it's a new start every year. Have you started yours?

Lazy Weekend.

2011-02-28T13:04:00.003-05:00

This weekend, we got to fish for the first time this year. We didn't get anything big, but it was nice to sit a soak up some sun.

Warm weather makes me happy.

Happy Birthday

2011-02-26T10:03:00.004-05:00

Johnny Cash has long been a favorite of mine. So has June.

When I first met my husband, this was maybe the 2nd time I had talked to him, he showed me the portrait of Johnny Cash on his leg. And then I told him how my future son would be Cash, and he said he already claimed the name and I couldn't have it. Funny how things work out. I didn't know anyone else who loved Johnny as much as me.

For our first anniversary, we visited Nashville, and took out trip out to visit their graves, and home. Their home had recently burned down, but we saw the beautiful property they loved and lived.

Happy Birthday Mr. Cash.

Pallet Wood.

2011-02-25T09:28:00.005-05:00

I've recently discovered the re-purposing of pallet wood. And now my mind is running crazy with ideas. I've really been needing a potters bench. I have so much gardening stuff, and it's all in random places. I am also in dire need of a little shed. I just informed my husband I have some projects for him!

You can find free pallets all the time. With all the nice weather we are having, I can't wait to get these projects rolling!

Source

A little shed like this is perfect.

Source

Don't you need a awesome hangout spot like this?

Then there are tons of ideas for the interior!

Source

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I love this bed!

And last but not least, my favorite:

Source

Love.

If you are using pallets in your home, make sure they are chemical free, some have pesticides on them. And you don't want that!

Pie Season.

2011-02-17T10:18:00.004-05:00

This week it has been beautiful, except today, it's rainy.

But tomorrow the sun will be back and it will be in the low 70's.

All this warm and sunny weather makes me itch for Spring and Summer. I have missed our weekly cookouts. I also miss fresh fruits and veggies. This year I have vowed to shop local, if not grow my own. Even though our moving plans have been put on hold, I may still grow a garden on our land.

This winter I have collected a few recipes that can be made anytime, but they really make me think of summer!

This fresh Strawberry pie from Southern Plate makes my mouth water.

Amy from Keep'n The Sunny Side made these cute little Blackberry pies.
I think I am going to try these with apple filling, perfect to bring along to a cookout!

Pie in a Jar from Explore the Cabin.
How adorable are these? I think I may whip some of these up for part of a wedding present.

I plan to use fresh fruits with any of these cute little recipes. Do you shop local?

Garden & Gun.

2011-02-12T21:47:00.003-05:00

In a recent post, I briefly mentioned this magazine. But I wanted to tell you a little more about it. And trust me, they have no idea who I am. I am blogging about them, because I love them!
I feel like it's a true Southern magazine, unlike some other popular ones out there.I've only picked up one issue, the current one.
But I find myself checking their website and blogs daily.

They mentioned thing like: ziplines in mountains, good Southern food, a place to show off you dogs, a look at mountaintop removal mining, Dove hunts, Bluegrass and even a style blog.
I love shopping, especially Southern Style.

To me, it's everything I want in a magazine. And I'm so glad I found it!

Check them out for yourself!

Garden&Gun

Storage Ideas, Your ideas.

2011-02-08T21:16:00.006-05:00

This week, I am starting work on my 'closet room', this room is small, but I have to have a place to gussy up. 2 people in one bathroom doesn't work. I also have tons of makeup and beauty products. I may be a bit of a junkie....

In this room I have a dresser, a shoe shelf, a tall mirror,a trunk, and then a vanity. I am looking for some creative ways to store makeup so I can lose the vanity and gain more space.

Any ideas?

House Love

2011-02-08T12:48:00.004-05:00

I look at so many decorating blogs, and magazines, and come across so many homes I love, so I've decided to start sharing my favorite with you!
Hopefully to pass on a little inspiration.

This house was featured in my new favorite magazine, Garden & Gun.
It's actually not a house, but a barn.
This North Carolina couple transformed an old barn into a beautiful entertaining space.

Beautiful walls.

So simple and rustic.

Sweet Tea.

2011-02-06T00:09:00.002-05:00

When I first started making tea, it was awful.
My husband swears it taste just fine, but it was bad....

As a Southerner, I couldn't believe I couldn't make sweet tea.

Shouldn't that be in my DNA?

southernliving.com

So, I had to keep practicing. And I've finally got the perfect method.

I use a coffee pot to make mine, you can boil it on the stove, but mine never turns out good.

Take 2 Tetley tea bags and pop them in the coffee pot, mine only holds 5 cups, and I think it makes the perfect amount. As soon as it is done, pour over 2 cups sugar, and stir while filling the rest of the pitcher with cold water.

There you have it. Easy peasy sweet tea!

Dear: Everyone Snowed In.

2011-02-03T08:00:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, it was sunny and 60 degrees. I wore short sleeves and flip flops.

Don't worry, Friday we will have freezing rain and 40 degrees.

But.. there is more good news, the ground hog didn't see his shadow!
That means Spring comes early.
And my daffodils are already coming up. They came up early last year, and this is what happened:

Fingers crossed. we won't get any more snow!

Cades Cove, TN

2011-02-02T11:34:00.003-05:00

Cades Cove is a beautiful spot a few minutes outside of Gatlinburg. Originally an old settlement, it's now a part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A chance to view and get an up close look at wildlife, even bears! Although, being winter, we didn't see any.

If you ever visit Gatlinburg, you have to go here! We are going back for my birthday, I can't wait to see Cades Cove all lush and green.

Vacation Time!

2011-01-27T13:20:00.002-05:00

We never take full weeks of vacation, we take mini trips. And we are leaving this evening for Gatlinburg.

Enjoy your weekend.

Summer Dreams.

2011-01-22T23:21:00.007-05:00

Southern Girls:

Don't Sweat....they glisten.

Know their summer weather report:
Humidity...Humidity...Humidity

Know their vacation spots:
The Beach
The Beach
The Beach

Know the joys of June, July, and August:
Summer tans
Wide brim hats
Strapless sun dresses

More snow is heading our way. I'm only dreaming of summer.

House Love

2011-01-19T19:37:00.004-05:00

Today I was watching The Nate Berkus Show, and this lovely house caught my attention.

I.love.it.

Gorgeous, right?

2011-01-12T12:22:00.004-05:00

I've slowly been updating my living room. Because we can't find anything we like in our price range, so we are probably going to be in this house a few more years, it's small, but our rent and bills are low. And I'm hopefully going to school in August so it's probably for the better.

I tried all white, it just didn't work for me, while it looks great in other homes, I didn't love it in mine. So I've decided to try and work with this wood paneling.

Oh and this big ugly heater... In the summertime I keep it covered, but in the winter time it, in all it's gloriousness,has to be exposed. Just another reason why I love summer!

You can see Moose has found his favorite spot. He's passed out beside me as I type.

And there is his home. I know each and everyone of you are dying to have one to decorate around. I just know it. It's the new big thing.

At one time I said I'd never have a deer on my wall.
I actually kind of love it.

Winter Mantel

2011-01-05T21:05:00.005-05:00

I wanted to keep my winter mantel simple and rustic.
I also wanted to keep my Christmas lights up because I love the warmth it adds at night.

Here it is during the day.

The bucket contains twigs and some left over black eyed susans I had thrown into the brush pile. It doesn't show well in pictures though.

I love the simple neutral-ness of this mantel. Much different from last years, I think I am finally finding my style. I recently picked up a few items at the thrift store to do some redecorating with. But I'll post more on that later!

Need more inspiration?
I'm linked up with The Stories of A2Z, Check out all the other beautiful winter mantels!

Meet Moose.

2010-12-31T22:37:00.003-05:00

This is Moose, and he did come as a Christmas present, an unplanned one!

Don't mind his crazy eyes from my flash.

A few days before Christmas I put a wanted add on Craigslist and Christmas Eve I got an email about a 6 months old Chocolate lab that was needing a new home.

His previous owner trains dogs for South Carolina Search and Rescue, while Moose didn't show great field potential, he did show great pet potential!

We fell in love as soon as we saw him.
He makes number 3 for us, although he's the only one inside.

It IS a White Christmas!

2010-12-25T22:36:00.004-05:00

We had to cancel our trip to see some family. BUT we DID get a White Christmas!

Merry Christmas.

2010-12-24T15:52:00.004-05:00

Last night I was up til 2 wrapping presents...the Christmas festivities have started.
I'll be on a little blogging break for the next week. I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas!

We are hoping for a white one!

My Christmas Wish List.

2010-12-21T14:59:00.003-05:00

I love this shirt from Pretty Raccoon Clothing.

I could use a little tan in the dreary winter months.

I could also use a new puppy.

Junk Gypsy Jewelry.
Perfect gray pumps from Forever 21.

Just a few things on my wish list.

Rustic Christmas Touches.

2010-12-13T10:53:00.006-05:00

This year, when I pulled out my decorations, I felt like decorating, but not over the top. I wanted to keep it simple. And a little rustic.

I always hate throwing away the branches we cut off the bottom of the tree, so this year I decided to not only make wreathes, but add touches through the house.

I love the greenery against the milkglass, this will probably stay all winter. Or as long as the branches last!

Here is a better shot of my mantel, a little less blurry!

Branches on the coffee table, the old bottles are some I pulled from the woods! Just like my galvanized tubs!

And last but not least, my porch, I'm not sure I totally like it. But it was WAY to cold outside to really mess with it! And I snapped this picture before I picked up the stuff in the flower beds!

I love the simple touches this year. Not to mention the easy clean up!

I linked up for The Nester Christmas Tour of Homes.

Head over there to check out more!

Southern Wear.

2010-12-07T08:20:00.004-05:00

I love me a good Southern t-shirt.

Clarification: cute Southern t-shirts.
Not the daisy duke, bikini top wearing, girl holding a shot gun, "I love the South" tshirts. No.

You've already seen my Carolina Girls, Sweeter than Tea shirt, and there is a link on the side bar if you'd like one of you're own.
But here are a couple other cute ones:

Source

Southern Chics Online offers 3 pages of cute t-shirts like these:

Gotta love this one from Miranda Lambert, one of my favorites!
Hello, Christmas present to myself!

And how about this cute little tank from The Junk Gypsy Co.

Cute little gifts for the girl who has everything!

Rustic Christmas Mantel.

2010-12-02T20:58:00.005-05:00

I pulled out of my snazzy decor from last year, and when I started putting it on the mantel, I just wasn't feeling it. So I decided to go with a more simple mantel, and I really love it. It may stay up after Christmas, til the branches dies, that's how much I love it.

I made the wreaths from left over branches from the tree. I know they aren't perfect, but I kinda like them messy.
Just one question, candles or no candles?

I think I like no candles. It keeps it a bit more rustic.

PS. I know these aren't the best pictures, I just don't have time to edit them to make them look perfect. Otherwise I'd never get my post up!

Oh and please ignore the cord. I moved my tv and we had to rope the cord around the room, not quite long enough. It's on my fix it list.

A Quick Hello.

2010-11-29T13:23:00.002-05:00

Hey Ya'll!

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving, I know I ate way too much!
This week I'll be posting my Christmas decor. Nothing new, just changing it up a little.
We've been really busy house shopping, we found one that we are in works right now to see if we will get approved, so fingers crossed! I would love to be in a new home after Christmas!

The house we found is actually the lot model, which means if we are approved, it gets to our lot faster!

No more waking up to a freezing house, and no more summers filled with jumpy cricket spider things!

It would be a great Christmas present!

On Hold: Update

2010-11-15T16:45:00.004-05:00

Well I have a little news:

We are moving!
Ok, not anytime soon, but it IS a definite! My husband's grandparents split their land up and gave us a lot! Ok not alot of land, a single lot. Haha.

Now we are in the beginning process of figuring out what to do. We know we are not going to build a house, so we are looking at a modular aka: double wide. I know a lot of people don't like this type of housing, but it's affordable, and it's going to be great for our first house. Especially because you can't get more room for your money. Which is something we need now, and will definitely need when we have kids!

But I am totally going redo our house. I'm notgoing to keep the ugly walls, or the ugly green carpet that most have.

But, again, we are only in the beginning stages, But hopefully sooner, rather than later we will be moving!

On hold.

2010-11-08T10:01:00.002-05:00

So, my decorating make over, has been put on hold. Because we may be moving!
I don't really want to go into detail since nothing is official, and I don't know when it will be official, I may not find anything out for another month.

But I will show you what I have done so far, and that is how I'm going to keep it for now. Until I know something!

So as soon as I get my house clean, I will post pictures!

Hope everyone is enjoying their fall! It's finally chilly here!

Georgia.

2010-10-28T16:36:00.003-04:00

This past weekend, my mom and I went to the Country Living Fair in Atlanta, I loved it. But I'll post more on that later.

I ended up having a few extra days off, so we were able to take a day and visit with some family.

My Uncle Benny owned a dairy farm, but as of this year, they turned it into a beef farm. That may not be the correct term, but that's what I'm going with. I snapped some pictures so you can see how beautiful it is, and I found my dream house!

This is Uncle Benny's house, he's lived here since he was 2 yrs old. Isn't it gorgeous?

But here is the real beauty! We walked down the road to this house, because this summer, part of the movie "Water for Elephants" was filmed here. The movie stars Robert Pattinson and Reese Witherspoon. Robert was actually there at the house filming. But..I'm not so much a Twilight fan, but if Reese would have been there, well I may have had to call in sick for work.

Anyways, it's a beautiful farmhouse, which needs alot of work, but that's part of the charm right? And it has a gorgeous mountain-y view, and a nice flat yard.

*Dream*

Oh and a rope swing in the back yard!

And here is a view from the part of farm, just to give you the whole affect.

Gorgeous, I know.

I.want.that.house.

Country Living Fair-Atlanta.

2010-10-15T12:17:00.001-04:00

It's next weekend. Is anyone going?
I can't wait.
I'm hoping to find some pieces I've been missing, I'm sure I'll know them when I see them.

Wall Accessories.

2010-10-13T22:01:00.001-04:00

Hmmm.

What does one put on the walls when your style is white/farmhouse/rustic-lodge?

Suggestions?

Kitchen Update.

2010-10-12T11:39:00.002-04:00

It's painted. And I didn't choose a fancy white color.

One night while my husband was working, I just decided to paint the kitchen, because I wanted it done, and I was tired of looking at tons of color choices.

So, I went to Wal-Mart and got a can of plain ol' flat, white paint.

And it looks great.

I'm still accessorizing, but hopefully next week I can show you.
My living room is also coming along nicely. Just a few more touches in there too!

Out of the Woods.

2010-10-06T22:09:00.008-04:00

Literally.

The other day we went on a little excursion through woods, I was on the back of a 4wheeler with a friend, when I spied this in the woods:

The big tub.
It was near the creek, where an old spring is, and near where an old house use to stand.

I couldn't get it that day, so a few days later my husband and I went and picked it up.
When we brought the 4wheeler back, my father in law asked me what I was going to do with it, and there was another one in the field they hunt.
So what did we do?

Walked right down and picked up the little one.

No they aren't the best condition, but I love them. I still have no idea what to do with them. They will probably end up being planters.

Bass Pro Shops.

2010-10-03T22:25:00.005-04:00

I love this store.
Not only do I love their clothes, moose heads, home accessories, purple fishing poles, or massive amounts of camo.

Side note: if anyone has any extra moose heads laying around, I'll take them!

I also love it because it's an unlikely place for home decor. But they have great ideas.
Recently, they remodeled our Bass Pro, to include a little cafe area, which called for all new decorations. I wish I had my camera.
Fishing baskets, wooded crates, old wire baskets, plaid...tons of stuff on the walls.

But my favorite? And old shelf, full of blue mason jars.

I am totally taking my camera next time.

And no, they didn't pay me for this :) I just love the store.

Coffee Table.

2010-10-02T00:15:00.003-04:00

I painted( ok my husband volunteered, so I let him) my coffee table this week.
And I love it.

Problem is, it's really long. And I'm not quite sure what to put on it. Next weekend I am going to one of my favorite junk places, so I'm hoping to find a really good piece.

What's on your coffee table?

Fall Mantel.

2010-09-28T20:26:00.004-04:00

Yes or no?

Not the best picture, I know.
I'm going to take some later, I just took this in a hurry!

Maggie Valley.

2010-09-27T10:23:00.002-04:00

It was a nice weekend in Maggie Valley, even though it did rain a little. Fall is definitely in the air! Even though the leaves haven't changed, everywhere you look there was pumpkins, mums, corn, hay and scarecrows.

It got me in the mood for fall! Tomorrow I will be breaking out some fall decor!

It also helps that it's chilly and rainy here at home.

Anyways, back to Maggie Valley...I didn't take too many pictures. I don't know why.
On Saturday we went to a place called Cataloochee Valley. It was beautiful.
You can see TONS of Elk there, and really close too. Plus tour a few historic buildings.

It's definitely worth a visit.

Beautiful.

The Hills They Make Me Feel Good.

2010-09-24T12:44:00.002-04:00

Source.

...They make me feel alive.

I'm heading out for Maggie Valley soon.

Have a great weekend.

Barn Sales?

2010-09-23T12:55:00.001-04:00

I'm jealous.

I see lots of people out there in blog-land that visit these barn sales.

Do any exist in North Carolina? Does anyone know how I would find out?

In Honor of the First Day of Fall..

2010-09-22T13:52:00.002-04:00

I had to bake these:

Pumpkin cupcakes.

Kitchen Paint.

2010-09-20T21:00:00.002-04:00

Which one do you like?

And yes, this is my real lighting, horrible, I know.
I actually found a white I like. Second row, first one. It's called Anthem White.

But what do you think?

Decisions.

2010-09-15T21:06:00.002-04:00

Hey Ya'll.

I know I never talk about much personal life on here, but just for a second, I am.
You see, I am a Nanny, and my schedule changes week to week, some weeks, I have two days plus weekends off. This week is not one of those! So I haven't had much time for blogging, but I have been working and brainstorming projects.

As for my kitchen, I hope to post pictures tomorrow, because I need some help.
After putting up a million paint colors, I think white is not my best choice. Only because, my kitchen tends to look a little yellow, and to me all the white choices look dingy.
So I think I am going to go with a light grey.

But maybe it's just me. Maybe they don't look dingy, I don't know.

Decisions decisions!

Not Quite Fall.

2010-09-09T08:00:00.002-04:00

It's still 90+ degrees here. I can't really get in the fall mindset. While we have had some cool mornings, the heat quickly rises. I can't bring myself to decorate just yet, but I do have a few projects to share. Let's see if I actually get to them...

First, I have a new obsession with pine cones. So when I saw this picture frame from Tracy's Trinkets&Treasurers I knew I HAD to make it.

Isn't her mantel gorgeous!? I will be visiting Hobby Lobby this weekend.

Pottery Barn.

I love this! Flower boxes are also going on sale this time of year. Perfect!
Via:Martha Stewart

I also love this corn husk wreath. Also Martha Stewart.
The woman just knows.

I'm not going to get too crazy with fall decorating, seeing as I am practically making over my whole house, and my porch will get decorated too. Plus I don't have room to store everything after fall is over!!

I need my own building.

Lighting Help.

2010-09-08T20:03:00.003-04:00

As I mentioned previously, I rearranged my living room yesterday. I really love the layout, but here is my issue: I don't have room for a lamp!

Without posting a picture, because I don't want to give it away, I'm going to describe.
My couch is basically in a corner, and on the other end, there is no room for a table. Now, we use an Amish heater in the winter, but it stays in the room all year.

I usually don't put things on it, but how would a lamp and some small accents look? These heaters aren't that big, and I just don't want it to look cluttered.

Opinions?

Check Out My Loot.

2010-09-08T10:21:00.004-04:00

The past 2 weeks I have been thrifting and yardsaling, stocking up on new home decor items.

I'm sad yard sale season is almost over. At least I still have Value Village, and a new thrift store I just found, that is super cheap! I think it may be my favorite.

So here's my loot I've collected.

The most expensive thing in these pictures is the milk glass set, it was $10.

Have you ever seen a coffee table in worse shape? I only paid $4.14. I love the structure, it's going to look mighty good when its all white!

Some pictures I picked up for the bedroom.

Yesterday I rearranged my living room, I just have to get all the accessories in. Hopefully by next week it will be all finished!

Going White.

2010-09-01T19:43:00.005-04:00

I'm doing it.

I talked about doing it to my "closet room" now I'm going to add it to my whole house.
After looking at more and more pictures of decorating with white, the more I love it .
Don't get me wrong, I love colors, but I want a change.
As I posted previously, I still sometimes think my house looks teenager-like. Maybe because some things I have are from my teenage years, some colors I still use. I need away!! I want my home to look lived in, because it is. But I also want it to look adult. I also want it to look bigger.

First step: Painting the kitchen.

I am going to paint it a shade of white, another positive is, I will have to paint before we move anyways. I'm sure my landlords will not like the bright green I have now, even though they said we could paint. That's probably not what they had in mind :) Our kitchen is the first thing you see when you walk in the door, because it's bright color peeks out from the living room, at least it's what I see.
I am going to have colors thrown in, because I looove to decorate for seasons! But I hope this gives me the change I've been looking for.

Fresh. Simple.

Are you out there?

2010-08-27T17:17:00.000-04:00

Does anyone read my blog?

Just wondering.

Constant Tweaking.

2010-08-26T21:26:00.003-04:00

It's what I do. Melissa at The Inspired Room recently did a post that I could really relate too.

I can not find a good balance for my house. I think the most frustration comes from not being able to paint. Now I'm ready to decorate for fall, but I just can't bring myself to do it when it's still 90 degrees and sticky outside. It will probably be another 3 or 4 weeks before I can do that.

I sometimes think certain elements in my house are very teenager like. And that's not what I want! At all.

Hmm, looks like more re-decorating is in order, more than I thought.

Any suggestions?

The Homeplace. Part 2.

2010-08-17T11:50:00.006-04:00

This was my Pop's house, a Florida couple now own it, it's their vacation cabin I reckon.

But this is the front yard, and to the right of the fence, is 5 acres still owned by my grandpa.

Although, pretty much everything you can see here, was once owned by my great-grandpa, it was about 200 acres.

I wish my grandpa had all that!

The Homeplace.

2010-08-15T12:55:00.008-04:00

Yesterday I made a trip with my Dad to see where my grandparents grew up.

I wanted to get some pictures, for a Christmas project I'm doing. They grew up on the same road, and it's wayyy back up in the mountains.

See there's a reason I have such love for the mountains. It is in my roots. Which I always knew that, I just did know exactly where. It was a little rainy and foggy, but nonetheless, gorgeous. I'm hoping to go back in the fall.

The log cabin.

The cabin, and then the newer house that was built in the 40's.

The pictures don't really caputure the beauty of these mountains, because the thick fog hung over them. But it was still beautiful.

Part 2 tomorrow!

My Farmhouse Bathroom.

2010-08-12T16:46:00.009-04:00

Or at least, what my Farmhouse/Rustic Style is.

I know, the bathroom lighting is terrible. It looks a lot better in person though.

The bottom of the wall I painted a brown color, and the top is what it looked like when I pulled the wallpaper off, it's like a white wash wood paneling. It's not perfect, but it's also not "my house". And I can't paint certain areas, this being one of them.

View from the door. The shower curtain was a wedding shower gift, and 3 years later. I still LOVE it. Maybe it isn't "farmhouse" but it works.

The main wall, that's the bathroom door, not closet.

This wall is plain, but it's a rental house, so I'm not really worried about the mirror.

This is one of my favorite pieces, ever. I picked it up at a junk place for a few bucks, it says "Southern Railway". I also picked a "Cucumber" one up, it's in my kitchen. There was a whole pile, and they all said random things. I have no idea where they came from.

We used mason jars at our wedding, so I still have a bunch, and I think these are a pretty good fit.

And an old wire basket I picked up, it holds all the necessities.

For more Mason Jar ideas: check out the linky and Funky Junk Interiors.

Summer Porch..A Little Late.

2010-08-09T14:39:00.006-04:00

I know, Summer is almost over, but I'm going to show you my porch anyways.

I had grand plans for my summer porch, but then, life happened. We had a small, small budget for living this summer. So, my porch was put on the backburner, but I did change it up a bit.

The first change was paint, remember how I painted my table purple in the spring? Well I loved it that color, but I started thinking my porch needed to be more uniform. So I painted it red, like my wicker. I figured red was a good color because it works for all seasons.

The lantern I got from Value Village, I didn't repaint it because I liked the worn look. And I put a little glass plate and tealights in it, because whatever was in the middle, wasn't there when I bought it.

It's just for a little light on the porch at night, if you turn the big one on, you get to many bugs!

I really love the patriotic theme for Summer. Red White and Blue are just perfect summer colors. I bought the flag at the Dollar Tree.

And this little box I bought this spring, at a junk place.

I did have Impatients, but the birds and squirrels tear them off as soon as they bloom!!

Any suggestions on how to keep them away?
I'm not showing you my wicker, because some little animal, probably a squirrel has just ripped my cover to pieces!

I am now on the look out for a metal glider, no cushions needed.

I Would Love..

2010-08-06T17:42:00.004-04:00

To own a Christmas Tree Farm.

holidays.mync.com

bestfreshchristmastree.com

At a little place we stay in the mountains, right beside a farm.

Love.

Money Saving Tip: Aldi.

2010-08-04T21:15:00.003-04:00

This store is amazing, let me tell you. I love to grocery shop here! I had always heard about Aldi, but I always thought their non name brand food was probably nasty. WRONG.

They're food, atleast everything I have tried, taste exactly the same or even better than name brand. I love this store. While it's not a full size grocery store, you can get alot of your basics there.

Let me show you. This is my receipt from today:

1lb sliced Turkey lunch meat $2.69

...This is THE best turkey, ever!

Salted butter, 4 sticks $1.99

Hamburger Helper $.89
Bread $.79
3 Rolls of Paper Towels $1.89
2lbs of Red Grapes $2.99
1lb of Bacon $1.99
Spaghetti Sauce $1.19
2 Desert pies $.39 each
1lb Ground Turkey $1.39
Ibuprofen $1.99
8oz Colby Cheese $1.79
Mustard $.69
Frosted Shredded Wheat $1.89
...All cereals are this cheap and they all taste the exact same!

Gallon of Milk $2.79
BBQ Baked Lays $1.99

Total= 29.22, with tax.

Now that's a good deal.

The First of My New Projects.

2010-08-03T15:00:00.002-04:00

In our tiny little house, my husband was gracious enough(thought I was gonna have to fight for it) to let me have the second bedroom. Because he was going to get a building, we still don't have it, but hopefully we can soon, so he can have his "man room''. Anyways...

So I decided to make it my closet room. I've never liked the way it was decorated, it was just a bunch of furniture put in there to make due. But I am finally going to tackle it, and on a small budget! I am not going to be able to really start on it for a couple more weeks, but I sure can plan!

Here are a few inspiration pictures:

decorpad.com

vintagerosecollection.com

It's probably not going to end up really looking like either one of those, but it's more the feel of it I'm going for.

I've already got a few ideas churning.

Hey Ya'll

2010-08-02T23:03:00.002-04:00

I'm back!!

I hope there are still some people lingering around....

Well, if ya'll are, I got a few projects planned, and I plan to fill you in soon.

I know, I know, you're on the edge of your seats.

:)

Etsy shop.

2010-07-19T18:16:00.003-04:00

I'm still here!! Life has just gotten a little more stressful, so I'm going to be taking some time off of blogging, BUT my Etsy shop is now open, and I will be updating it! Yay!! There isn't a whole lot right now, but I will be adding more soon!!

So please, go have a look and tell me what you think!

Visit :

The Magnolia Farmhouse

See you soon!

Some News.

2010-06-30T19:21:00.000-04:00

I know I've been lacking on blogging, but for good reason.

I'm opening a shop, yes an Etsy.

And it's going to be filled with all sorts of farmhouse/vintage/whatever I think is cool, goodness.

More details soon.

I'm back.

2010-06-26T02:44:00.002-04:00

Complete with raccoon eyes. Why? Because I rode my motorcycle a total of 523 miles this weekend. Or.. my "weekend".

New post coming soon.

The Beach is Calling...

2010-06-18T15:21:00.005-04:00

... And I must go.

See you soon!

Thrifting.

2010-06-11T22:07:00.002-04:00

Today, my Mom and I hit up our favorite thrift store, I just can't go in there without buying something!

I have no idea what this is, but it was 60 cents.
I plan to use it like this:

With a better candle though.
If you know what it is, please let me know!

This little basket I bought for 80 cents:

You can see my future plans for it also.

And lastly for a whopping $4.00 I got this sleeping bag. I LOVE it, I love anything flannel, and I like the vintage feel to it. It will get put to good use this summer. After a few washings of course...

I wish the lighting in my house was better. I guess I could edit my photos to have a really cool effect, but who really has time for that?

Sweeter Than the Tea and Roan Mountain.

2010-06-06T15:38:00.008-04:00

I had a birthday recently, so we took a trip to the mountains, where else?

I finally got to hike in Roan Mountain, and I'd thought I'd share some pictures. Because if you're anywhere near here, you need to visit!

I also wanted to show you a shirt I picked up recently, I love it!
It's from a cute company in based out of Asheville called Sweet Tea Clothing. And when I bought my shirt it came packaged in a cute little mason jar, along with a bag of tea.
Another plus, the shirts are American Apparel. The best t-shirts ever.

See? How cute!
These shirts are available for: Alabama, Arkansas, Asheville, Carolina, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia!

They also feature scarves, and t-shirts for kids and babies.
I see more purchases in my future!!

Now on to Roan Mountain.
Goregous, my favorite hiking spot so far.

Looking into NC from TN.

And now TN behind me.

Great place for a hike.

Summertime.

2010-06-05T00:40:00.004-04:00

Why I love summer:

Watermelon.
Bare feet.
Summer nights.
Lightnin' bugs.
Fishin'.
Yard sales.
Swimming holes.
Long days.
The beach.
Riding my motorcycle.
The beach.
Front porch sittin'.
Fireworks.

Just a few reasons.
What do you love?

Neutral Decor.

2010-06-03T17:52:00.004-04:00

I always swore I would NEVER decorate my house with neutrals, I felt like everyone's house was decorated that way. But I have now realized the power of neutrals, and that even if the colors are the same, my style is different from everyone else.

I should have taken before pictures, but, I didn't. But I'll explain, I had a futon for a couch, with a red quilt as the cover, and I'd change it out in winter. And then I had this black tv stand thing, with dvd's and cd's stuffed in and around, and tons of records held in old peach crates.
Dorm room furniture pretty much.

Well, I acquired a love seat from my grandma, because she didn't have room. And I've also been on the lookout for a tv cabinet, and my mom found one for $10.
So after I filled my house with new furniture, it clicked, "Hey, these neutrals actually make my house look bigger, brighter, and make my wood paneling not so bad" And bring my vision of farmhouse style, to my not farmhouse.

So then of course I had to head to Value Village, my favorite place, to pick up some accersories, I spent $15 and came out with this:

Plus a blanket, which you will see on the back of my couch.

So after this long post, here is my new and improved living room.

I moved the peach crates, still with records, and make it my coffee table, because we didn't have room for end tables.

A can of spray paint touched up the silver tray, and some picture frames.

And here you can catch a glimpse of the tv cabinet, and my dishes and my random stuff of the heater turned table. All that stuff is put up now, I promise!

I love neutrals.

I can't believe I just said that...

An Upcoming Post on Neutrals.

2010-05-28T22:45:00.002-04:00

Today I have learned the power of neutrals.

I finally feel like my living room fits us. Well me, my husband doesn't really care about decor. I've done a little re-arranging, acquired new furniture, and I'll be sharing them with you soon. I've got to get the house in order by Monday, but hopefully it will all be done tomorrow!
Have a great weekend!

Lakeside Retreat.

2010-05-23T01:35:00.003-04:00

After I get rich and buy my big old mountain farmhouse, I'm going to buy a small lakeside retreat.

Hey, I have to have somewhere to go to support my new hobby.
Or maybe I'll never get rich, and I'll fall into a great deal on a big old mountain farmhouse, that has an extra room to decorate like a lakeside retreat.

Either way, since taking up my new fishing hobby, I've recently discovered my love for vintage fishing gear. As decoration, thanks mostly to Bass Pro Shop. But I have always loved the small cabin feel, and I'd like a little room to decorate that way.

Soon, I'm going to order this book, because I love every page.
Finding vintage lakeside decorating tips, isn't that easy, but I have come across a few things I thought I would share. In case your lucky enough to have a little retreat. Or just like the style!

This photo was taken in Bass Pro Shop, but I found it via Raised in Cotton, you should check out her blog if your haven't. She has a farmhouse, and decorates it beautifully.

I love the colors in this, and all the fish prints.
Courtesy of Country Living.

Love this wall, with old family photos.
Courtesy: Cactus Creek Da ily.
Also a great blog!

I love the feel of this room but, of course, I'd change things around!
Like the rug, change the blankets for quilts, and change the shelf decor.

I love the navy, green and dark reds of this style. And the natural elements. I'd frame some vintage prints also, like this:

Hope this helps someone along the way!

Night Patio.

2010-05-18T23:43:00.008-04:00

I love sitting outside at night, southern summer nights are special.

They always bring great memories with friends and family.

After a hot humid day, it's nice to sit on the porch, and if it's raining..well that's even better.
Cooling air, the sound of the rain...it'll put a girl right to sleep!

And I'm about there! So onto my post.

Now there are so many cute options to decorate with. Here are a few ideas to add a little night time ambiance to your outdoor space.

via backyardxscapes

I love Christmas lights! You can string them anywhere, and if you don't have a covered patio, it doesn't matter. Create a roof with the lights.

Lanterns are also great, both kinds. Although not very practical, but great for entertaining. And Dollar Tree sells paper lanterns. We used purple and white at my wedding.

Another love is mason jars.

via jenadvents.blogpot.com

A few of these to light your path would be darlin'.

But if all else fails, you can rely on tiki torches, and the Dollar Tree sells those too!

Fishin

2010-05-18T23:36:00.003-04:00

I've always like to fish.

But this summer, it's going to become a hobby.

Just Give Me That Countryside.

2010-05-07T23:39:00.005-04:00

A couple weeks ago I went out to my grandparents, they live outside of a small town in SC. It's so pretty there, so I thought I'd share some pictures with you.

I feel summer creepin' in.

2010-05-06T23:09:00.003-04:00

Name that song.

Ya'll, I've been MIA again, but warm weather makes my schedule crazy, but I'm back!

Anywho..

The past two nights I was driving home after dark, and every now and then I'd pass a tree that looked like it had Christmas lights in it.

It was all due to these guys.

Summertime is on it's way.

Thank You.

2010-04-19T12:02:00.003-04:00

I just wanted to say a thank you to Front Porch Ideas and More for featuring my porch on their website!

Please check out their website for great porch ideas and designs!

My Spring Mantel.

2010-04-13T22:13:00.005-04:00

I decided to give my mantel the spring spruce up. I'm happy with it.
Although I think I might paint the frame pink.

Excuse the bad night time lighting.

Yellow is not one of my favorite colors.

2010-04-08T20:24:00.003-04:00

And this is one of the reasons why:

Pollen!!

My motorcycle shows only part of the pollen, because I brushed it off the other day. And this is what has collected since then.

But in this picture, you can see a dark sky, waiting to wash the pollen away.
And it did, it even brought a tornado warning!!! I hate storms!

But you can also see...spring!

Green leaves on the tree.

Barefeet in the green grass.

Pretty green plants, brightening up the front of my house.

I am so glad winter is gone. Although we didn't have much of a spring, it was 91 the other day.
But I don't mind.

Spring Porch.

2010-04-01T22:28:00.007-04:00

Spring is here! I love 80 degree weather!

Anywhoo, I have finally finished my front porch clean up.
I can't wait for summer though, that is my favorite porch season. My porch is so much better with flowers. But here it is, ready for spring!!
Here are some before shots. I'm kinda embarrassed, I let winter get the best of me.

So after some deep cleaning, paint and a few accents, I now have this:

Because we rent, I just washed the floor, rather than repainting. Add a rug, you don't really notice it! And it's a nice touch!

The jar and metal birdhouse are thrifted finds. The birdhouse is from Wal-Mart, it's about 5 dollars in the craft section. I painted it with some left over paint.

I really needed a new cushion, but I couldn't find one I liked. So I just covered it with a leftover vinyl tablecloth! It doesn't look perfect, but that's ok with me. Plus, it's super easy to clean!!

So there you have it! You don't need much to spruce up you outdoor space.

I love having a spot to sit a spell.

Afternoon Snack.

2010-03-19T20:24:00.004-04:00

It was a gorgeous 72 degrees here today.

Yesterday I started my porch makeover, and today I cleaned out my flower beds.

So I thought I deserved a nice snack after all that work. And I thought I'd give you a sneak peak of my porch!

Have a great weekend!

Decorating Ideas for Outdoor Spaces

2010-03-15T01:03:00.001-04:00

Decorating Ideas for Outdoor Spaces

Posted using ShareThis

Porch Decorating.

2010-03-15T00:12:00.005-04:00

Hey ya'll!
Yes, I know I have been absent for a month, but ALOT has been going on. But I'm back!

So, Spring is upon us, time has changed, days are longer, weather is warmer!!!
And warm weather brings Front Porch Sittin', atleast for those of us here is the South.
It's probably the most popular Southern activity. In the summer, my front porch is a gathering place for us and our friends.
So it's time to sweep those cobwebs off, wash the floor from all the dirt the snow brought it, clean my furniture, and relax.

I'll show you my clean porch later this week. For now though, let's focus on decorating.

Here are some staples:

Ferns:
My grandma always has huge ferns hanging from her porch.

Rugs:
This makes it more inviting, makes it feel more like a room.

Wicker furniture and rocking chairs:
Sure it doesn't have to be wicker, but it's on almost every porch down here. No matter the size of the porch, there's some sort of wicker piece.
And rocking chairs, do I even need to say anything?? Haha.

Tables:
Well where else are ya gonna put your sweet tea?
I love old tables, although I don't have any, I'm on the lookout.

Curtains:
My porch isn't big enough, but if it was I'd have them.Great for keeping out the sun directly out of your eyes.
And of course flowers and other decorative pieces.

Here's some inspiration photos

I love this floor.

Love the colors, the curtains, love this porch!

I'll be back later this week to show you my porch makeover!

Who wants to buy me this house?

2010-02-15T14:49:00.003-05:00

I need this house, it's an old farmhouse, with a few rolling hills around it. And it's in the area we want to move.

If you watch the video, it has great potential. And I'm going to think about this house for a long, long time. Tear.

I hope when we are able to buy a house, I can find a gem like this.

Here is this listing.

Snow day.

2010-02-13T16:15:00.007-05:00

Last night we we're graced with round 3 of snow. 3 times a year? That never happens!!

So we took a little time this morning to play outside.

Click on the pictures to make them bigger.

Happy snow day!

Decorating With Wood Paneling.

2010-02-11T09:40:00.004-05:00

If you're like me, you live in a rental, that has horrible ugly wood paneling. We lucked out with this house because the previous tenant, painted some of the walls, that's right only a select few. Like one wall in the living room, and 3 out of the 4 in the extra bedroom....I know, I know. So we were allowed to re paint those, because this house was DIRTY when we moved in. Dirty as in, you could see the spots on the walls where the pictures were hung. It was gross. Gross.

Anyways, we were allowed to paint the kitchen, but we had to paint over the ugly blue and yellow wallpaper, because underneath was wood paneling, that we couldn't touch. Plus I didn't want to spend the time taking the wallpaper down, when it's not our house. It turned out pretty good though.

I was looking around last night and realized, our house has come a long way. Of course it would go a lot further if I could do more. But the main challenge: wood paneling.
So here's some of my tips:

Clearly, this is not a real picture, but I love all the colors.

Neutral or bright furniture. I have a futon for my couch, the cover I have is this:

On top of that is pillows, and a red throw on the back.
You've already seen my neutral chair, topped with a colorful quilt.

Next is accent colors. Everywhere! I use blue, green and white. Always use bright colors, it's going lighten up the room.
I have two lamps in my living room, because at night, it gets pretty dark in there. And I hate the over head light.

For the walls:
Like the first picture, groups of pictures is going to take the focus off the ugly wall color.
If you hang shelves, or use any type of storage cabinet, paint it a bright color.

I'm also a big fan of crisp white curtains, I love them. Or you can use sheets for curtains.
Hope this helps!

Beating the Winter Blues, with Blues!

2010-02-01T13:34:00.007-05:00

As I look out my window, I see inches of snow. Blah. I like it while it's snowing and maybe for a day, but after that I'm over it. I've been ready for spring since December 26th. I do not enjoy winter.

Just because it's cold and ugly outside, doesn't mean your house has to be!
Last night I started cleaning and re-decorating some things. Mainly my mantle, since that is a big focal point in my living room. I decided to incorporate some blues into my decor. Along with some plants to freshen up the house. It's dreary outside, but inside, it's bright and cheerful. Blue and white is a perfect color combo for a country/farmhouse decor. And it's easy to transition into spring and summer. Add a little red, PERFECT summer color palette.

Here is what I updated:

We use a Amish heater, otherwise we'd spend fortune in kerosene.
Anywhoo, I added a little freshness with some plants and spray painted pots.

Here I added a quilt I recently got, I actually got a few. My great Aunt recently passed, and had these, they are from my great-grand-mother, I believe. My Mom is going to kill me...I can't even remember! Anyways, I love it.

And my mantle, the white bucket is and old sapling bucket I spray painted. The little flower candle holder are from Hobby Lobby, they have Spring things out, and it makes me happy!

Just little touches of blue, brightens up my living room.
Here are some other ideas:

I love the blue vases with fresh flowers. Make the table look crisp, and bright.

How cute is this room?? This wouldn't take much. A few clearance Christmas ornaments, I've still seen them out there! Dried branches, and felt cut to snowflake shapes. Super cute! Especially if you still have a few months of winter left.

I love the freshness of this bathroom. This makes me want to change mine actually! Hmm, I may be having a new project!

Who wouldn't want to do laundry here?

Even though your flowers aren't blooming, the grocery stores are!
Simple. Country. Cute.

Mountain Snow.

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Tomorrow is my husband's birthday! And early tomorrow we'll be heading up to the mountains, and I'm hoping we don't get snowed in. They could get 6 inches.
A little snow would be great, I just want to be able to go places!

But I'm hoping to get some good photographs, like this one.
Blake Smith Photography, not mine.

I'm so excited. Have a great weekend.