CAROLINA PANACHE

A Sunroom in need of sun!

2010-03-01T16:08:00.002-05:00

So today I've been thinking about the SUN.

It's March 1 and the sun has been shining here in my part of NC. However, the Weather Man is calling for gray skys and snow tomorrow! Burr! I'm so ready for Winter to be over. I'm looking forward to Spring and so I'm not gonna let a

little snow dampen my desire to fluff the house with a little

touch of sunshine and whimsy.

Floral prints, birds, butterflies and bright colors are everywhere! I was at my neighborhood TARGET store this weekend and found these adorable little toss pillows. Now my sunroom is in need of a little sun and I think the best place to start is with some bright sunny color to replace the browns, deep greens and muted orange that I have been living with since October.

Let's take a look...

This oblong pillow is feather filled and oh so soft. I love the bright clear brown,yellow, orange and yes, that's right - pink color scheme of this pillow and all on an ivory background. The butterfly really caught my eye too. Now this isn't a commercial for TARGET but I really loved the Spring accessories they have displayed right now! These colors are just what I need to add

panache to my sunless sunroom.

A collection of mini-pillows in accent fabrics tie together red, yellow, peach, pink, orange, white and green. I couldn't make these little guys for what they are on sale for so...

I might just have to add these to my ever growing collection of pillows!

I love this big floral medallion print. This would be perfect on my yellow, white and green striped sofa.

Fun patterns and colors are just what the Decorating Doctor ordered but before I go spending money on these little beauties, I'm gonna check some other outlets to see if I can find anything similar or maybe even some fabric remnants to make my own. I might try making slipcovers for my existing pillows. That would save a bundle I bet. Most of these pillows were between $9-25 dollars. I figured $100 would take care of what I would need for the sofa,

loveseat and my wicker side chair.

Stay tuned in this week to see what happens. My next post will be some before pics of my sun room dressed for fall. I must warn you it's a little sad. Once Christmas was over, things sort of looked ho-hum! New window treatments are much needed and I would love to update the look with plantation shutters but that's not in the budget right now so I've got my eye on some bamboo roll shades and I'm thinking that a nice topper would do the trick.

Who knows what I'll end up with but until then,

Live Life Beautifully

Alisa

It's A New Season!

2010-02-28T16:30:00.003-05:00

Well hello! Welcome back to Carolina Panache.

I've been on a two month sabbatical and tomorrow brings the dawn of a brand new season! No, I know spring doesn't officially start until March 20th but for me and my family a new season starts March 1st! I've missed being able to share and create with you. I thank all of you for your e-mails, comments and concern. I had almost decided to give up blogging until my BFF reminded me about

gifts...so such that I have, I will give Here the sun is rising on my new season. My son took this picture while out walking the nature trails surrounding our development. No matter what you are dealing with, it seems that the sun is always gonna rise tomorrow.

And that same sun tends to set as well. Sometimes we have to recognize when the sun is setting on a season that is over and be willing to accept that in the morning a new day will dawn and a new season will begin.

I hope you will join me tomorrow as I embark on a new leg of my journey.

Spring is just around the corner and it's time to get the house ready! Light, bright color and pattern is the name of the game for my house this year. We'll see if we can find some inspiration...

Until then,

Live Life Beautifully,

Alisa

Happy 2010! The beginning of a fresh, new decade!

2010-01-01T18:53:00.007-05:00

Happy New Year!

Wow! Am I glad that 2009 is over and 2010 has officially begun! Now that’s a change for me. I usually am not the person wishing away time or longing for the New Year however this year I was definitely ready for a change and with the New Year will come a change in scenery. Once the holiday décor is packed away, the house will need some added warmth as we snuggle down inside to wait out the cold winter months ahead. I typically start taking down my holiday décor on January 2nd. Tomorrow my game plan is to start with the formal living room and dining rooms. This is where I use the most traditional décor and lots of RED. Once that is packed away, the rooms will feel bare and a little lifeless. To add back that needed warmth, here are my top 4 tips I live by:
1. Add warmth by including darker, richer color. I like to add pillows and throws in colors like chocolate, evergreen or ruby. These colors complement my décor but deep shades of caramel, navy or plumb would be lovely at this time of year too!
2. Include cozy accents. I break out the handmade crocheted afghans that my Mother-in-law, Ann, has made me. Keeping them draped on the back of chairs or sofas make them handy when Old Man Winter brings a chill to the air. If your upholstery is springy or summery, try adding a slipcover in a darker shade to cozy up your space.

3. Cover your windows. I like to hang heavier window treatments during the winter months. The benefits are two-fold: 1) heavy weight fabrics help to insulate against winter’s cold temperatures and 2) adding color and pattern keeps the winter blahs at bay. Nothing is more depressing to me than bare trees and gray horizons!

4. Use greenery generously. After taking down my holiday wreaths, garlands and swags, I always feel that my home is naked. A few years ago, I started keeping evergreen wreaths and garlands (less the holiday glam and glitter) displayed through the end of February. Adding fresh touches of cedar, pinecones, natural holly and magnolia leaves gives a full, lush look that is perfect all winter long. Another fun trick is to add twigs of pepper berry in vases and pots throughout the house to punch up natural elements and add interesting color and texture.
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I hope to share some before and after pictures with you later this next week as I prepare my own home for the winter months ahead. What are some of the ways that you cozy up your nest after the holidays? Please share your best tips for adding stylish winter warmth!
Until I see you again,
Live Life Beautifully!
~Alisa

Christmas Around Our House

2009-12-26T11:54:00.009-05:00

Hello! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! I can't believe that Christmas 2009 has come and gone! All the preparation, decoration, cooking and gift wrapping is now just a wonderful memory. Most of you know that I haven't posted a new blog entry since Thanksgiving Day. So much has happened in the past month that it's hard to know where to begin! To make a long, long story short, I had 7 house quests during Thanksgiving week, spent a week in Chicago, took on two new consulting projects and took a whirlwind trip to Florida to stay by the side of my best friend Bella-Mella during the initial loss of her dear Andrew, then scrambled back to Charlotte to wrap up preparations for a Christmas Eve gathering with family and good friends, gift wrapping, and finally Christmas Day celebrations! Whew!

Please somebody stop this ride so I can get off!

I know the Christmas season is drawing to a close but I wanted to take you around the house for a peek. I've visited so many of you who have taken my breath away with your creativity and beautiful decor that I'm already inspired for 2010! So come on in, be my guest and browse to your heart's content. Thank you for reading my blog and thank you for the kind comments and wonderful words of encouragement that I receive in so many of my emails! May God bless and favor each one of you in the upcoming year! Happy Holidays!

Welcome! This is my front door. I made the wreath last year and decided to use the same one again this year. My motto was "use what you have". I didn't buy any new decorations except some new twinkle lights. The ribbion is velvet edged in gold thread. The wreath form is artifical but the magnolia leaves and other greenery is fresh. The red poinsettia and magnolia are also velvet.
Here is the dining room all set for Christmas Dinner. The salad plates feature an ornament motiff. I purchased these plates at Burdines in Florida many years ago. Burdines eventually sold out to Macy's

I fell in love with the Red Glitter trees. I bought two sets last year. I used them down the center of my table and filled in at the base with pinecones, roses and evergreen.

Just another view... loved using the fluffy red rose napkin rings. I think I'll carry those over through Valentine's Day.

The Nativity scene is featured on a side table in the formal dining room.

Now, moving into our Sunroom.

We use citrus colors of orange, lime, and lemon as well as pear green in this room year round. At Christmas the colors get deeper and richer. Below is a simple centerpiece arrangement made for the coffee table. I collect reindeer so I've featured a couple of bronze statues along side.

Gold, bronze, orange and silver come together to form a festive holiday tabletop.

Another view...this one features a Autumn Burst mosaic hurricane. This was part of my interior accessories line last year.

I used the same color scheme and decor on our tree this year. The tree topper bow was tied for me by a wonderful floral designer in Matthews, NC. I saw the striped ribbon and knew it would be the perfect touch in the sun room.

Last year I redecorated our Master Bedroom in rich shades of blue, gold and taupe. To add Christmas cheer, I draped an evergreen garland between the posters and hung miniture stockings made from animal print material.

Each year I collect a new SANTA. This was last year's version. He is dressed in brown fur and a blue velvet coat. He looked right at home in the new color scheme.

A simple pine wreath hangs on the wall by the bedroom door. It's only ornamentation is the natural pinecones and a sheer blue and gold ribbon.

I had never displayed a full size tree in my bedroom until last year. I was reading in Paula Deen's Christmas magazine and read where Brandon (her decorator) featured a gorgeous tree in Paula's bedroom. I was instantly inspired to do the same. I kept the colors light and decorations subdued. I covered the tree with clear glass ornaments, gold balls and more miniture stockings made from animal print fabric. The final crowing touch was a fluffy ribbon of sheer blue ribbon and silver floral picks tucked in among each branch.

Back down stairs - the kitchen and breakfast room is where we've been spending an awful lot of time lately. I picked up these adorable snowman plates at Marshalls for $2 each.

A holly berry topiary in a red ceramic pot adds a little festive color to this corner of the kitchen counter.I always decorate with fresh fruit in the kitchen at Christmas. This triple layer stand makes the perfect centerpiece to display apples and oranges. I just tucked in snipppets of evergreen to add color and a little seasonal flavor.

I found the velvet runner on the island at Steinmart last year. It looks like a string of pretty wrapped presents. I wish I would have bought two!

Another view...

I keep peppermint and cinnamon candies around in clear jars during the holidays. They not only make great decorations in the pretty glass containers but they come in handy after dinner too!

The Christmas Tree in the formal living room is a collection of red and brown glass ornaments, red poinsettia and hydrangea blooms and red birds.

Oops, we're back in the dining room...

A simple garland, a grapevine wreath with a red velvet bow and two small evergreen wreaths complete the decor around the dining room mirror.

Now, we've made it to our family room. This was probably my favorite room this year.

Soft green, ivory, brown and gold make up the colors of Christmas in this room.

The entertainment hutch and bookcases provided the perfect place to feature my collection of white Nativity statues. Garland, ribbon and old, glass ornaments are laid at the base of each figure.

Decorating the mantel is usualy my first stop on the quest to add holiday cheer to each room. This year's version features both fresh and artifical greenery, clear twinkle lights, glass ball ornaments, gold and green magnolia sprays.

The Christmas Tree in the family room is a 9 1/2 foot, downward swept, Fraiser Fir.

It is covered with 1000 clear lights and four various ribbons - sheer green, green velvet edged in gold, ivory satin ribbon with a gold glitter overlay and green and ivory plaid. A collection of gold cheribum and holy family ornaments grace the branches.

Two 36" tall Angels herald the birth of JESUS!

That completes our holiday house tour. Thank you for stopping by. May you and your family always cherish the wonderful season of Christ's birth. Merry Christmas to all and to all a goodnight!

Until I see you again,

Live Life Beautifully,

Alisa

So Much to be Thankful for!

2009-11-27T07:04:00.003-05:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING! (a day late!)

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving and that you were able to be with the people you love the most. I hosted the holiday at my house this year. My brothers and their wives and children came down and have been visiting. We've had a good time catching up. It's so important to be thankful for family and love on one another while you can!

I've been traveling lately so I haven't had the opportunity to share alot of what is going on in my corner of NC but it's beginning to look alot like Christmas around town and around my house. I will flying out to Chicago on Sunday for the week but once I return I will have lots and lots of pictures to share with you...

A Christmas Tea on December 5th

A Holiday Decor extravaganza on December 10th

A Holiday Home Tour on December 14th

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On another note, please continue to pray for my dearest and best friend - Bella Mella - and her son Andrew who has been diagnosed with Stage 4 brain cancer. We are believing for a miracle because the Doctors have offered no other hope. BUT GOD!

To read more about this precious boy and this family's walk through the fire, visit BellaMella.

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Until I see you again,

Live Life Beautifully!

~Alisa ;-)

Peppermint Twist and other delightful tablewares at a discount

2009-11-15T14:50:00.006-05:00

It's that time of year when decking the halls and walls and tabletops are on us ladies' to do list!

Making spirits bright is as simple as doing that little something special that let's our family and friends know we love them and they matter. I especially like to set my table with pretty dishes and serving pieces all throughout the holiday season. That's why I was so excited about my Celebrating HOME Christmas collection this year. I want to highlight some of our new pieces and to make a special offer to all of my Readers.The festive design and generous size of our handpainted dinnerware will create instant holiday dazzle...with a twist; Peppermint Twist that is. Each piece is diswasher, oven and microwave safe! Pictured above are the Peppermint Twist mugs and dessert plates. Many of you know that I use mainly white dinner plates in my tablescapes. So adding this pretty red, white and green dessert plate as an accent is the perfect touch to add holiday whimsy to my tabletop. Mixing and matching with other red or green dishes is also an option or used alone these cute plates add holiday panache to cake and coffee! The matching mugs are perfect for hot chocolate, coffee, tea or spiced cider. I will even use them as gifts for teachers and neighbors. Simply package them with packets of hot chocolate or flavored teas and coffee for a great, affordable gift that will brighten someone's day.

The matching bowl is shaped with a convenient little handle and will be a favorite for offering up warm soups and stews during the cold months of winter.
As part of my Exclusive Customer Offers for readers of this blog only, you can order directly from me any of these delightful tablewares and have them shipped directly to your home address. As a reader of this blog you will receive a 20% discount plus FREE shipping if you order by November 24th.

Peppermint Twist Dessert Plates

8" plates

Set of 2, Item #93266

Regular: $20/set

Blogger Sale: $16/set

Peppermint Twist Medium Bowl

Set of 2, Item # 93267

Regular: $24.00/set

Blogger Sale: $19.20/set

Peppermint Twist Mugs

Set of 2

Regular: $20/set

Blogger Sale: $16/set

Another fun and flexible tabletop accessory is this set of Whimsical Santas. Display them anywhere you want to add a little holiday color and cheer. These cute little guys are made of resin and are 3 1/2" x 4" each. Two sets would give you enough Santas to set one at each tablesetting for a table serving six. If you really want to get creative, take a fine point, black paint pen and write names or initials on each one and use them as placecards! The options are endless!

Whimsical Santas

Set of 3, Item #45052

Regular: $16/set

Blogger Sale: $12.80/set

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To order simply email oopsadaisync@aol.com or leave a comment for me to contact you via your blog. Most orders ship within 2-3 business days. To see more of my Celebrating HOME season product line go to www.celebratinghome.com/sites/AlisasHomeAccents

For more simply joyful ways to decorate your hearts, hearths and homes this holiday season, visit often as I bring our family's Colors of CHRISTmas to you.

Until I see you again,

Live Life Beautifully!

~Alisa

"...later on we'll conspire as we dream by the fire..."

2009-11-13T07:55:00.005-05:00

Okay ladies, we've only got 42 Days and counting!

Are you getting ready for the two biggest holidays of the year? I am! I've been cleaning, moving furniture, planning decorations and menus. I have a big CHRISTmas design show in two weeks and I've been getting ready designing wreaths, garlands, centerpieces and tabletop decor. SOOOOO busy has been my middle name!

Do you like to change up your decor each year or do you like the tried and true?

Some things like the kid's stocking being hung on the mantel are a given. A grand nativity displayed in the entry is another given. But beyond that I constantly look for new, fresh ways to decorate each room of a house.

In the pictures that follow you will see a collection of rooms from my "Inspired Me" file. Each one features a fireplace mantel - some are in living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms. I think it's fun to browse photos for new updates on this iconic home feature.

What do you do if you don't have a fireplace mantel?

Try the same treatment on a long shelf or the top of a hutch!

What inspired me in this photo was the use of fresh seasonal fruits nestled among the lush greens of the garland. I also liked the way the garland was draped below the mantel as well as on top of the mantel shelf.
In this photo the designer used a simple mix of evergreen, pinecones and red berries. It is not a complicated or fussy treatment but the wow factor is great because of the gorgeous wreath hung on top of the gilded mirror. The bright red bow adds a touch of festive color and complements the red roses of the centerpiece.

I don't use very much blue in my holiday decor. Mainly because I don't have very many rooms decorated in this color. However, when I saw this picture I stopped cold. The wintery scene in the oil painting is perfect with the understated mantel garland. The addition of the silver finials and blue ornaments bring the perfect balance to the grouping.

Here is a sweet and soft look. A simple evergreen garland hung below the shelf leaves plenty of room to display candles and family photos in pretty gold frames. What a dreamy little getaway. I could dream away hours during the holiday season in this cozy little room.

I love this look. It doesn't fit in my house anywhere but the sparse evergreen twigs and single stocking hung by the fire is understated elegance at its best.

You just can't go wrong with magnolia leaves woven into a generous garland.

Bright Red Ribbon and Amaryllis blooms make quite a pair against the soft green of this wall and surround.

Pineapples have long been the symbol of hospitality. Here, a sweet pair graces the ends of this mantel with just the right touch.

A rich and masculine library wouldn't be complete without a blazing fire. The bare tree branches painted gold and displayed on either side of the photo resembles antlers to me.

An all natural treatment is perfect for this cottage look. The varied textures keep the minimal color palette looking fresh and interesting.

This room is so warm and inviting. The warm red and gold color scheme is perfect for the holidays. I love the garland draped over the mirror.

Another warm and inviting room. The mantel decor is simple but beautiful. I love the use of white magnolias.

This elegant dining room is a show stopper! The grand fireplace is framed in a generous evergreen and magnolia leaf garland.

The white starfish add coastal whimsy to this modern room. Decorating with accessories or items that are native to your area makes Christmas Coast to Coast unique and inspiring.

Our last photo is from a rustic, log home in the mountains. Stockings galore is what caught my eye! The thick, colorful mantel garland is generous but not fussy. I love it!

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Hope you've had fun browsing some of the mantels that have inspired me. I am hoping to have all of my decorating complete before Thanksgiving. Rhoda over at Southern Hospitality is hosting a Christmas Home Tour on December 10th. Mark your calendars and join the fun! In the meanwhile visit often to check out our Colors of Christmas. To view last year's colors go to Colors of Christmas.

Until I see you again,

Live Life Beautifully!

~Alisa

CHRISTmas Countdown!

2009-11-09T08:04:00.006-05:00

Today marks the 46th day until CHRISTmas!

So my holiday countdown is officially on!

I am spending the day packing away the pumpkins and harvest decor and making room for CHRISTmas cheer! I usually start my holiday decorating with the mantel in our family room. Last year I bought these two large metal ANGELS and displayed them on either side. The walls in my family room are a soft mossy green. I used a palette of gold, green, white and brown. It was so fresh and different from my usual red and green. I plan to use the same colors this year but want to change up the look a bit. I found this picture at bhg.com. I love the stars that are hung from clear fishing line to dangle above the mantel. The clear glass vessels make pretty showcases for bright red cranberries and white candles. I'm on the lookout for some stars like these. Anyone have an idea of where I might find them?

Here's another look that I am considering - much more formal but I already have several mercury glass CHRISTmas trees that I could display among a lush evergreen garland. I love the floral swag and red ribbon that are off to one side of the gold mirror. It would be easy to pull this look together with items I already have on hand.

Another project that is in the works is a tablescape that my friend Ann and I are doing for a ladies CHRISTmas Tea. Each year CALVARY Church in Charlotte hosts this wonderful event. We have the honor of designing a table this year. Ann moved to this area from NJ's coast and I moved here from FL's Gulf Coast. So without any reservation, we agreed that our tablescape would be a coastal theme. In the past I've seen all white coastal themed tables and aqua and white. I found this photo online and just fell in love with the coral colors and texture of this table. I don't know if we will recreate this look or go with cooler blues but the Tea is on December 5th so visit on the 7th and I will have pictures posted.

If all goes as planned I'm hosting Thanksgiving at my house this year. My brothers from WV and OH are planning to visit and with Mom and Dad here now, it will be a wonderful reunion of family. This will be the first Thanksgiving I've hosted at my house in many years. While we lived in Florida, we would go to my sister-in-law's in Seminole or we would travel back north to visit with family. Since we won't be together at CHRISTmas, I've decided to have my holiday decor in place so we can have our family tree lighting ceremony after Thanksgiving dinner.

I just love the holidays - faith, family and friends! I hope you will visit often over the next 46 days as I share our family's Colors of CHRISTmas!

Until I see you again,

Live Life Beautifully!

~Alisa

With a grateful heart...

2009-11-08T14:04:00.005-05:00

Can you believe it's November already?

Where has this year gone? I'm not sure about you but I feel that I've been on a roller coaster ride since last January! If I started to recount all that has changed, all that has happened, all that we've gone through and all that we've learned; I don't think anyone would stay seated long enough to read this post! Days without number seem to pass me by and all that I want to accomplish never seems to be accomplished. But amid all of the hussle and bussle of my life, the ups and downs, twists and turns it is with a grateful heart that I post today's blog. We have SO much to be thankful for and this year more than any other I can remember, I am making a conscience choice to be thankful in all things! No, not just give the thought of gratitude lip service but rather heart service. God has brought me through some trying times, He's tested my faith and taught me to walk by faith and not by sight. When things couldn't have gotten worse or so it seemed, they did. When I couldn't go on or so it seemed, I did. When life seemed to hard and my strength so weak, God proved faithful. So, today with a grateful heart I count my blessings, numbering them one by one. I'm looking forward to this holiday season, knowing that the abundance of my life comes from above, from the One who made heaven and earth. I hope that you have a blessed day and take time to give thanks with a grateful heart. Love on your kids and grandkids. Shower your spouse with special care or gestures. Bake some cookies for your neighbor or surprise a stranger with a random act of kindness. Whatever you do, do it with a generous spirit and a heart of love and gratitude. Two years ago, we celebrated Thanksgiving at home. Just the four of us. Usually I deck the dining room in the gloroious colors of Autumn but in this setting I chose to use a pure white palette of Ivory dinnerware, white linen and lace and white ceramic pumpkins.

I called it "Pure Thanks". I name my tablescapes. That's probably weird but I've been doing it for so long that it seems weird to me not to give each creation a name.

The only color was the green and brown of the fresh magnolia leaves scattered and woven around the accessories.

While still living in Florida, I found the white, ceramic, Tom Turkey centerpiece at Marshall's in 2005 right before the holidays. I've displayed him each year since either on the dining table or a nearby tabletop.

Ivory candles and crystal goblets provided all the shimmer and shine required to set this table aglow.

Tomorrow I start pulling out the Christmas decorations and getting ready for this year's Colors of Christmas. I hope to give you a weekly countdown, as I did last year of our quest to bring holiday cheer to each and every room of our home. I hope you will stop by for frequent visits.

Until I see you again,

Live Life Beautifully!

~Alisa

Falling for Orange - A Color Story

2009-10-23T15:38:00.005-04:00

Is anyone falling for orange this month?

I am! Orange is the "HOT" color for this fall and winter. Everything from Tangerine and Clove to Mandarin and Sweet Potato are turning up on upholstery, wallpaper, wall paint, drapery panels - you name it and it's probably available in some warm orange-y hue.

So - keeping in the spirit of the harvest season, today's post features, well, ORANGE.

In Charlotte, there is a store called Black Lion. It is one of my favorite places to shop for accent furniture and home accessories. This is a picture I took on a trip to their design house. I love the mix of fabrics on the decorative pillows. The warm golds and orange was the inspiration for my family room color scheme. I added moss green and touches of black to my room.
For an easy update and budget friendly version of orange in your home, try displaying mini-pumpkins on trays and platters. Add snippets of twigs and fall leaves to add texture and depth. This tray is a long, plain white platter but it serves as the perfect centerpiece for the dining room table by adding a little seasonal color and shape.

I love this side chair. I found it on Overstock.com. It is the perfect little accent chair in the bedroom or even the office. The shape is perfect for blending with contemporary or traditional decor. It is covered in a lovely shade of "Sweet Potato"velvet fabric.

I also found this loveseat on Overstock.com

I am not crazy about the accent pillows but with a little effort and little money, I can design decorative pillows to complement the "Burnt Clove" chenille fabric of this ultra flexible seating piece.

This Slipper Chair sports a fun and fresh fabric! The rusty, clay background causes the golden orbs to pop! The styling is very streamlined and modern but would be the perfect piece to mix-n-match with more traditional interiors.

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Next month's issue of Traditional Home magazine has a great feature on decorating with orange. Color Expert Victoria Stuart Burke says that orange has the power to boost creative energy & motivation. So try paiting your study or home office a shade such as Sweet Mandarin from Home Depot's Behr paint line. Burke states even though the color is vibrant, it's soothing as velvet in a flat finish.

Using the warm, zesty hues of orange in a library or entry hall are any room that get little light can be all the boost needed to turn a ho-hum room into singing the hallelujiah chorus!

While these colors have a powerful presence, they remain sophisticated according to Burke.

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So the next time you are in the mood to repaint or add an accent wall seriously consider ORANGE. It is not just for Halloween anymore!

Until I see you again,

Life Life Beautifully!

~Alisa

In The Mood...A Christmas Preview

2009-10-10T16:56:00.005-04:00

Hey there! Happy Saturday!

What fun things are you doing today? I'm listening to Christmas music and planning room by room decorations. I've just finished the Fall Nesting and put away all the storage tubs for a month or so until it's time to pull it down and pack it away to make room for Christmas Glitz and Glamour. I usually start planning my Christmas deocations around this time. I take pictures of each room so I can refer to them the next year. It helps me not to repeat the same thing year after year. This year I'm going to break with tradition and NOT put up a tree in my family room. Yeah, I know that sounds sad but in the spring Mr. Panache bought a new entertainment cabinet with bookcases on either side and it's rather big. I don't want the room to be overly crowded so no tree in that room. Our sunroom is directly off the family room so our big tree is going in the sunroom this year. That will be something new. Without a tree in the family room, I will make the mantle and fireplace surround the focal point. I found this photo in my files. I am sure I've kept it for inspiration. I love the lavish garland around the fireplace, the kneeling reindeer on the cocktail table and the bow and floral spray around the golden mirror. So classic and elegant!
This tree caught my eye as I browsed through some photos I had saved last year. I love the white and silver decorations on the pinetree. The soft, muted colors are so soothing. Last year I used a similar color scheme in my family room. To check it out go to Colors of Christmas and take a peek.
Here is another room that is so elegant - all white and gold. This year I am thinking of using white, gold and silver as my color palette for my formal dining room. I'm still comtemplating that however...

What a cute collection of stockings! I like the homey, country feel. Our media room is usually where we get out our country whimsical decor. The boys usually take care of that room. It's always fun to see what they come up with.

These 3-D stars are great! Last year I hung large ornaments from fishing line over my kitchen island. But this year I think I will look for stars! The clear glass vessels filled with red and silver beads are perfect for making a big statement. The lush green pine and cedar garland set the backdrop for a fabulous holiday mantle.

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It's really hard to believe that Christmas will be upon us before we know it. I can hardly believe that we have 10 weeks and 5 days until CHRISTMAS! Yikes!

Well, for now I think I will enjoy Autumn just a little longer :-)

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SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT:

My new Winter / Christmas catalog for Celebrating HOME is now available. To check out the great home decor, entertaining and Christmas line go here.

All Readers of this blog are eligible for a 20% discount on anything listed in my current catalog or the promotional price if lesser. Enjoy shopping the catalog! :-)

Until I see you again,

Live Life Beautifully!

~Alisa

Playing Dress Up....

2009-10-07T15:59:00.003-04:00

I've got my silver paint and I'm ready to paint some pumpkins! I hope to share some of the pictures with you soon. In the meanwhile I wanted to show you a little dress up project. Sometimes it is fun to play dress up with accent furniture or salvage pieces. What do you have to lose? Not much in this case. The chair featured in the photo below was salvaged by Mr. Panache about 12 years ago. It was found at a second hand shop in Indian Rocks, Florida and was a dirty white. We painted it a nutty macadamia color and have had too many upholstery patterns on the cushion to keep track of. Most recently, the chair sported a black fabric with a tiny gold dot. On a whim I would move this chair from the living room, the entry hall, to my bathroom. Here it is pictured in my entry about 2 1/2 years ago. So much has changed this that time....

The desire to dress this little chair up was so strong that I jumped at the chance to re-make it into something more grand. The "after" picture below features a new coat of glossy black paint with gold-leaf accents. The cushion was covered in a rich mustard tapestry with deep red, orange and teal flowers. I love the lines of this little chair and its scale - the perfect side chair.
I was so pleased with the way this chair turned out the we turned our attention to another side chair that we've used all over the house. (See photo below) While the shape and wood of the second chair are different, the scale is the same and the curved lines look great together. The black paint and same fabric did the trick of unifying the two mismatched chairs.

Now these two plain Jane chairs have been given an extreme makeover and are playing a new, important role in my updated Country French formal living room...

More photos to come.

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I'm always amazed at what a little paint and fabric can do to transform any room. The key is not being afraid to take risks. If I would have hated the outcome, another color of paint & fabric would have done the trick to correct my error. Fortunately, I was really happy with the final work and it was exactly what I had in mind. I am working on some new custom window treatments and decorative pillows in a beautiful red, yellow, gold and black checked fabric. Stay tuned in for updates. I hope to have the project completed before November 1st. Until I see you again,

Live Life Beautifully!

~Alisa

Who says Pumpkins have to Orange?

2009-10-05T07:55:00.005-04:00

Who ever said that pumpkins must be orange?

Even God created a variety of colorful pumpkins! White pumpkins are my favorite! I have a collection of white ceramic pumpkins and this year I've displayed them in my dining room. Each year I try to use my seasonal decor in different rooms and in different ways. I also have a collection of Mercury glass and I've been thinking of ways I could use it earlier than Christmas. I was searching for inspiration when I came across this photo on MarthaStewart.com

LOVE, Love, love this photo! Spray painted pumpkins in an antique silver is the perfect solution! While maintaining the familiar icon of the season, you tone down the bright orange and create the perfect pairing with antique mercury glass. This mix would be just right in a formal living room or dining room. The silver paint takes the whimsy of pumpkins to the elegance of fine accesories. The way the stylist has displayed the pumpkins on cake stands is a great way to way movement and interest to this vignette. This would make a stunning table top display in our entry hall too! Well, I guess I'm off to the home improvement store to buy a can of spray paint. Then I'll head over to Wal*Mart to pick some pumpkins. I was in there over the weekend and they have a large variety of pumpkins and gourds. Have you heard of Fairy Tale Pumpkins? I had not but they have the most gorgeous shaped pumpkins there that look like Cinderalla's carriage. I think I'll pick one of those for my focal point and then add various gourds and mini-pumpkins as accents.

Here is another fresh take on the standard orange pumpkin.
These pumpkins are in shades of white and pale green. They've been punched out with intricate designs, then scooped out to make room for a candle. They make beautiful luminaries.
To see how this is done and to view more inspiration pictures, pop over to
MarthaStewart.com
Take the link for Halloween Central. Enjoy!
Until I see you again,
Live Life Beautifully!
~Alisa

2009-10-02T14:52:00.006-04:00

Welcome to the Cook's Corner!

It's been a while since I've shared some of my family's favorite recipes with you so today I will give you two of our best fall treats! The photo of the ingredients above is for "Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cookies". Years ago when Mr. Panache and I first were married, his wonderful Mother shared this recipe with me. I had eaten pumpkin pie, pumpkin cheesecake and pumpkin soup but NEVER pumpkin cookies!

Ingredients:

3 Cups Sugar

1 Cup Vegetable Oil

2 Eggs

1 Teaspoon Vanilla

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5 Cups Flour

1 Teaspoon Salt

2 Teaspoons Baking Powder

2 Teaspoons Baking Soda

2 Teaspoons Nutmeg

2 Teaspoons Cinnamon

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1 Large Can Pumpkin Filling (unseasoned)

1 Package Chocolate Chips - 12 oz.

1 Cup Walnuts, chopped

Here is my Pumpkin Cookie Jar. It's the perfect place to store the MANY cookies this recipe makes. Last year I displayed my cookie jar in the center of my kitchen table. To embellish the jar I used a few fall floral picks to form a wreath around the base.

Directions:

Combine sugar, oil, eggs and vanilla using electric mixer or hand beater.

Sift flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, nutmeg and cinnamon together.

Add pumpkin and dry ingredients alternately to the liquid mixture, mixing well with a spoon. Then add chocolate chips and nuts. Mix well.

Drop by teaspoonfuls onto cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake at 350* for 10 minutes.

Makes about 6 dozen

(That's enough to share with neighbors and friends! Or you could just eat them all yourself but don't get mad at me if you can't fit into your favorite jeans afterwards! ;-)

Here's a great tip from Grannie Annie (my Mother-in-law):

Use an extra small ice cream scoop to drop the cookie batter on the baking sheet. It makes the job a lot easier and you have uniformity in size.

After you make your Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cookies, pack up a little hamper with some sandwiches, cookies and a thermos full of pipin' hot cider or coffee and take a stroll down this tree-lined lane with your favorite guy. In my case - 3 favorite guys!

Fall is a wonderful time for hosting a harvest-time get together or football party. We are always looking for quick and yummy receipes that we can fix in a hurry! Below is a new recipe that I found on bhg.com
Blue Cheese Ricotta Dip
Ingredients:
1 15-ounce container ricotta cheese
8 ounces blue cheese, such as Gorgonzola or Maytag, crumbled (2 cups)
2 tablespoons apple cider or milk
Freshly ground black pepper
Snipped fresh chives or your favorite herb
Green and/or red apple slices
Breadsticks or crackers
Directions:
1. Allow ricotta and blue cheese to stand at room temperature for 1 hour. In a medium bowl stir together the cheeses, mashing with a fork until well combined.
2. Stir in the apple cider. Add pepper to taste. Spoon into a serving bowl. Sprinkle with chives. Serve with apple slices, breadsticks or crackers. Makes 8 servings.
This dip would also make a great spread for a fresh, grilled burger on game day!
Nothing causes me to catch my breath more than the beauty of God's creation. I have always been in love with the colors of Autumn. This is a picture from Maine. One thing I would love to do is take a road trip through New England during the fall stopping at little Bed & Breakfasts along the way. Maybe Mr. Panache will read this and take a hint!

I also promised to share another of my family's favorite cookie treats -

Outlandish Oatmeal Supremes

Ingredients:

1 Cup Butter

1 Cup Sugar

1 Teaspoon Baking Soda

1 Cup Brown Sugar

1 1/2 Cups Flour, plain

2 Eggs

3/4 Cup Coconut

3 Cups Quick-cooking Oats

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5 Tablespoons flour, plain

1 Cup Milk

1 Cup Vegetable Shortening (Like Crisco)

1 Cup Granulated Sugar, plus 2 tablespoons

1/2 Teaspoon Salt

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To make the Oatmeal Supremes:

Mix the first eight (8) ingredients. Drop by teaspoon on non-stick cookie sheet. Bake in preheated oven at 350* for 8 minutes.

Baking Tip:

Use parchment paper to line you cookie sheet. It makes for better browing and easy cleanup. Again, try substituting a small ice cream scoop for a teaspoon when dropping the cookie dough onto the sheet.

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To make the Cookie Creme:

Cook flour and milk to a thick paste.

Chill mixture in refrigerator.

Mix shortening, sugar, salt in a bowl with electric mixer.

Add mixture to paste one tablespoon at a time.

Mix until smooth.

Place a teaspoon of filling on the bottom of one Oatnmeal Supreme Cookie, top with a second cookie to make a cookie sandwich. Makes 20 servings.

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I hope you will enjoy these family favorite treats. This weekend I will be putting the finishing touches on my outdoor decor and giving the house a good cleaning. I am going to a Christmas Craft Fair with my friend early Saturday morning. I hope to get some great pictures I can share with all of you next week. Until then,

Live Life Beautifully!

~Alisa

Cookin' Up Some Business!

2009-10-01T16:38:00.003-04:00

Hey! I haven't forgotten about my cookie recipes that I promised to share. Today, however, I've been busy cookin' up some business and I have a meeting to go to in a short while. SO - I will post these yummy treats tomorrow. :-)

Have a sweet evening! Until then,

Live Life Beautifully!

~Alisa

P.S.

Please continue to pray for Andrew. He is back in the hospital and needs a miracle! We are standing with Melanie and Dannie in our belief that God is still a miracle working God and He is more than able to speak the word and divinely heal little Andrew from brain cancer. We appreciate everyone's prayers. God bless you all. For more information and to stay up to date, visit Bella~Mella.

Autumn Entries - Inviting Doors that say "Welcome Fall"

2009-09-30T14:16:00.002-04:00

More Fall Nesting Rituals Happy Wednesday! It's a gorgeous 73 degrees today, sunny and a light breeze!

This time of year is my FAVORITE!

Autumn holds so many possibilites for get togethers, parties, harvest festivals and special times.

My Fall Nesting rituals include adding fall color to every room of my house, the entry and back deck. I like to drive through the neighborhoods close to my development and check out what the neighbors are doing to add Autumn panache to their entry. It seems that everybody is busy adding a little color to their yard, porch or entryway. So today I thought I would spend a little time sharing some tips for creating inviting entries that say "Welcome Fall".

Tip #1:

If you live in a formal or traditional home and like to keep your outdoor decor classic, opt to use lots of natural materials and products. Pumpkins, mums and gourds of all sizes and colors can give your entry perfect seasonal color. In the inspiration pic above (from bhg.com), the stylist has used fall hardy mums in yellow and white to complement the orange pumpkins. I love the use of various shapes and sizes and the piece that stands out to me is the white and green gourd placed at the front of the steps. These are the ideal decorations to make that pretty red door pop! The natural grapevine wreath adds another layer of interest and texture. I can just imagine being invited to visit this home - perhaps my good friend is inside preparing a delicous harvest meal - butternut bisque, braised beef roast with roasted sweet potatoes and parsnips and finished off with a caramel apple torte! Yummy! Too bad I have no idea who lives in this house! Ha, ha! :-)

Tip #2:
If you are more relaxed with your decor, you can incorporate items such as urns and place big pumpkins on top using the urns as pedestals. Perhaps your spring and summer plantings have all but fizzled out - dig them up and replace your container plants with mums or pansies. I prefer mums in shades of orange, rusty red and yellow. My entry door is black and I display a season flag that has a black background featuring sunflowers, pumpkins, gourds and mums. The brightly colored mums are quite showy in front of my door. I have an Autumn Glory Maple tree in my front yard and while most people dislike the leaves dropping on the lawn, I enjoy the scene - brightly colored leaves dotting the green grass. When it's time to rake up those leaves, I choose to save them and use them to add color to my outdoor vignettes. I love the old straw broom leaning against the brick wall. Perhaps that's a sign of things to come around the 31st of October??

Tip #3:

Having steps that lead up to your entry is great for staging pumpkins and flower pots but what do you do when you are limited on space? In the picture above (from mso.com) an old bench sitting by the door is a great stand-in for steps. It gives the opportunity to add layers of gourds and pumpkins in all sorts and sizes. A large pumpkin has been carved out to provide a great place to tuck a pot of rust mums. Do you see the three spray painted gold pumpkins? That caught my eye - a nice shiny touch to the other rustic colors and textures. For more whimsical decor use fun scarecrows, light-up Jack-o-lanterns with goofy faces and fake crows, hay bales and corn stalks. I like to hang scarecrows from my hanging basket stakes and place metal yard stakes around the planter beds with fun harvest scenes.

No matter what your style or preference don't forget to add a little Autumn panache to your entry. Welcome family, welcome friends and welcome the possibilites that a new season brings.

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Tomorrow I am going to share two of my favorite fall cookie recipes -

Outlandish Oatmeal Supremes and Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cookies. These two recipes have been family favorites for years and I am sure your family will enjoy them too! They make perfect treats to share with friends and neighbors. Until then,

Live Life Beautifully!

~Alisa

Easy Autumn Decor

2009-09-26T13:03:00.002-04:00

Today it finally feels like Autumn here in my corner of North Carolina - a nice 68 degrees! After much of September's tempatures feeling like summer, I was ready for cooler weather! The forecast next week is classic fall - highs in the low 70's and lows in the mid-50's!

I've spent most of the last two weeks getting the house transitioned from the light and bright colors of summer to rich, earthy shades. Fall nesting is actually pretty easy in my house. When we first moved in, I made sure that the colors I painted each room would work with my fall decor and Christmas decor - soft yellows, muted greens, warm golds, citrus orange and deep reds. When I'm ready to change decor for the new season it's simply a matter of switching out a few accessories - florals, throws, decorative pillows and some art with deeper, saturated color.

I keep Rubbermaid tubs in the attic labled by season. I rarely buy new things each year but find new ways of using things I've collected over the past two decades of married life.

Here are some tips for adding season panache to your own nest:

1) Introduce hints of new color to your existing palette. If your rooms are mostly neutral, add splashes of autum red or orange for contrast. Muted shades of green are fresh alternatives to bold or warm color. Accents rugs, table accessories and throws add high impact for little money.
2) Add woodsy elements and texture. Bringing a little of the outside in adds instant fall style to your space. Wheather you take a trip to your local farmer's market or a walk through your backyard, look for moss, grasses and small branches that can be used to fill decorated urns, pots baskets or vases.

3) Decorate with wreaths. They are classic and versatile. For around $15-25 you can make your own gorgeous fall wreath. I love to hang wreaths over mirrors. Another trick is to lay them flat and frame candles or pumpkins. Wreaths add instant color and a festive ambiance to your home.

4) Add seasonal flair to year-round accessories. Here a couple of mismatched candlesticks are given an instant fall update with fresh flowers and berries. The punch of color sets the tone for warm and cozy interiors. These can be tucked on a shelf, end-table or mantle and enjoyed for days. To get more mileage try using silk flowers.

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Lastly, as the weather cools down and you find yourself indoors more, don't forget to make space for conversation. Cozy up your family and living rooms by pulling your furniture closer together. Add or relocate seating around your fireplace. If you don't have a fireplace, pull a couple of comfortable chairs around an accent table and add scented candles for ambiance. Stack a collection of books close by for those long evenings when snuggling down with a good read and hot chocolate or your favorite coffee is just what you need to pass the time. :-)

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Next week, I plan to offer a couple of family recipes that are sure to be hits with your little ones this fall so be sure to join me at the Cook's Corner. Until then,

Live Life Beautifully!

~Alisa

It's A New Season!

2009-09-20T17:11:00.003-04:00

To Everything There is a Season,

A Time for Every Purpose Under the Heaven:

A Time to Keep Silence,

And a Time to Speak....

(Ecclesiastes 3:1,7b)

Hello and Welcome back to Carolina Panache! This past summer has been a season of change, transition and question. I've bounced back and forth between "Should I continue to blog"? and "I don't think I have the time!" to "What do I have to offer anyone?" But just as sure as the sun rises and sets and the moon continues to glow, each new season brings renewal and gives way to all things new but familiar. These past two months I've been pretty silent with my blog and have only posted a couple of times in these past weeks. I truly appreciate the e-mails from so many of you and your encouraging comments. So before the sun sets on this Sunday, the first day of a new week, I have renewed my commitment to share ways, ideas, thoughts and words with you to add panache to your nests and hopefully, create a haven where your family comes to land at the end of a long day and tiring week. May you enjoy each post and may you be inspired to live life beautifully!

AUTUMN! FALL! HARVEST!

Whatever you call it, this IS my favorite time of the year. We are two days away from the official start of Autumn. I have already started adding fall color and scents to our nest.

Last week we painted our formal living room "Homestead Resort Tea Room Yellow" - wow! That's a mouthful! It is one of the colors from the National Preservation of Historic Homes Society. It is a beautiful, soft shade of yellow and it makes my formal living room come alive with fresh color - the perfect background for the warm, saturated shades of fall. I love to add seasonal vignettes around everyroom. Mantles, end tables, bookcases and shelves - no place is safe from mini pumpkins, acorns, fall leaves or tiny gourds!

In the picture above, mini pumpkins are used for placeholders on a Woodland themed tablescape. To get this look for your table simply cut a section of solid ribbon, hot glue one end around a large straight pin or fancy toothpick, using a permanent black or brown marker write the name of each guest and then insert the pin in to the pumpkin! What could be easier?

Natural, colorful materials like wild berries, pinecones, squash, and tree branches are used to build an inviting centerpiece. A medium sized pumpkin is cut and carved-out to hold a 4" pillar candle. To get this same look in your home, buy one pumkin - about the size you would use for a fresh pumpkin pie - cut a 4" diameter hole and scoop out the flesh - about 1 1/2" deep. Insert your candle then attach clusters of berries or small pinecones around the top edge of the cut. I use colored toothpicks to attach the berries. Next, cluster larger pinecones, gourds, mini-pumpkins, small branches and moss around either side of the larger pumpkin with the candle. If your table is long, extend the clustering as needed to create the proper scale. Keep in mind that the carved pumpkin will not last very long so you may want to save this step for a special dinner or party.
I love amber glassware! The color is rich and warm and for me it's the perfect glassware for an Autumn table. Here amber glass is paired with red plates and white soup/salad bowls. The combination of these three colors allow the cornucopia filled with mums and artichokes to take center stage. Recently, I found woven cornucopia baskets at the Dollar Tree. They offered various sizes and the best part - they were all $1!
Here is another pretty fall tablescape. Pretty shades of warm butterscotch, orange, and amber paired with pottery and rustic accents lends the air of a homey harvest dinner to celebrate all the bounty the earth has produced during the season. Natural and fresh cuttings from late summer foliage makes a nice transition and accent color to the other warm shades.
As we get closer to Thanksgiving this is a great craft to share with the kids. Miniature clay pots are painted black and the rims are painted various colors to resemble hat bands. A black fine point marker was used to write the names of your guests. The add the white polkadots simply use a white paint pen with an ultra fine point. Just dab the white paint on the black and allow to dry for 2-3 hours.

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"30 Days, 30 Tips to Budget Friendly Home Decor"

Day 12 - Tip 12

Fall is the time to cozy up your interior spaces. When shopping for home decor items, look for pieces that can be used for multiple purposes such as display baskets that can hold fresh fruit in the summer and then move to the powder room to display seasonal fingertip towels. Nothing is more pampering during a dinner party than offering guests a fresh hand towel for their personal use. Another great solution is reversible bedspreads or comforters. You get two looks for the price of one! Nothing can freshen up your space like a change of color or pattern.

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Thanks again for stopping by. I hope you have picked up an idea or two you can put to good use! For those of you aware my bestfriend's fight for her son's health, we are asking that you continue to pray. Andrew needs a miracle! While surgery has helped tremendously, there is still a long road ahead if God does not intervene. Andrew is 12 and he has Stage 4 brain cancer. It was only diagnosed 4 weeks ago! On top of this, my friend's husband's company has gone bankrupt and he has lost his job and his insurance. We are asking God for a double miracle and I believe it will happen. Please remember to lift up the Dorsey family this week in prayer. A wonderful friend has set up a fund at their church to help this family with medical and living expenses during this time. If you would like to help, please contact me at oopsadaisync@aol.com. I will be happy to give the details. I know that God will greatly reward you for anything that you can do.

Until I see you again,

Live Life Beautifully!

~Alisa

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

2009-09-04T14:23:00.006-04:00

Hello! Welcome back! It's been a while since I've had a regular post.

Many of you know that I've had a lot going on this summer. To recap, in July I moved my retired parents to NC to be close to me, in August Mom had some severe high blood pressure issues and then a week later we thought that Dad had a stroke. Thank God, we took him to the ER and after a CT scan and X-rays, the Doctor ruled out a stroke and diagnosed Dad with Bell's Palsy. That was good, I guess. Much better than hearing that he had a stroke. After some medicine and some time, most of the symptoms are gone and we are expecting that within another two weeks all will be normal. Following that, I heard from my best friend, Bella~Mella, that her 12 year old son was diagnosed with brain cancer. You can read about this situation on Bellamella-Melanie.

Through all of this, God is in control and Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever! No matter what trials we go through on this Earth, we know "all things work together for the good of those who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose..." Romans 8:28

So, I say it's the most wonderful time of the year because

"this is the day that the Lord has made and I will rejoice and be glad in it"!

FALL or AUTUMN has always been my favorite time of the year. There is just something about harvest time that gets me excited and expectant- the deeply saturated colors; the cool, crisp morning air; the metamorphosis we watch with our own eyes as summer gives way to a new season. For us nesters, we hear the call to change our scenery - to add vibrate color to our interiors and to bring a little of the Earth's bounty indoors.

(The picture above was an Everyday Tablescape used on my dining room table throughout September and October. It was updated in November to display a Ceramic Turkey centerpiece.)

Next week is the official Fall Nesting Week. Time to put away the summer, cozy up the house, perhaps change the scents of candles or aromatherapy to spicy, woodsy fragrance and settle down to the routine of school and the rituals of football, fundraisers and falling leaves.

(My breakfast table was the ideal place to display a ceramic cookie jar shaped like a pumpkin. By adding a trio of floral sprays and gourds, I was able to create a seasonal centerpiece in under 3 minutes.)

So, I revisted my pictures from last year's fall nesting. I've been looking for new inspiration and I am determined to re-work what I have. I may add a couple new items but for the most part I've decided that by rearranging existing furnishings and accessories,
I can reuse my current collection of fall decor.
(A fun, foam pumpkin rests on a grouping of grapevine, foliage and feathers. The little white picket fence was added to mimick Charlie Brown's Great Pumpkin Patch tradition.)

(This hutch was a focal point that clustered fun Halloween decor in a monochromatic manner.)

(A fresh, fall door wreath set the tone for the transition from Summer to Autumn. The bright green ivy leaves add end of summer panache.)

( This Trophy Urn provided the perfect place to display a collection of Fall foliage and berry sprigs. The color variations of brown and black were my inspiration for the mixed and matched table linens.)
If you get into the Fall Nesting thing, I'd love to hear about some of your traditions or rituals that gets your nest ready for Autumn!

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Some of you were following my "30 Days, 30 Tips to Budget Friendly Home Decor". I was able to post 10 tips before life got crazy and I was overwhelmed. I plan to post a new tip at the end of each regular post until I've finished my last 20 tips.

Day 11 - Tip 11:

Ribbon Works!

For an instant update andpop of color, purchase a big spool of ribbon. Use this ribbon to embellish lampshades, curtain panels or sheets, shower curtains, decorative pillows or throws. No need to sew, just use a hot glue gun. You can unify mix'n match pieces by adding common trim and pulling accents colors from other fabrics or prints used in your room. Ribbon is so cheap and places like Hobby Lobby and Michaels offer gorgeous ribbon sold by the spool. Most of the time you can find 50% off sales and you can pick up 30 feet of ribbon for $5!

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Thanks again to everyone praying for Andrew! We are so appreciative! May God richly bless you for your faith and your compassion!

Live Life Beautifully!

~Alisa

2009-08-29T12:10:00.002-04:00

Many of you may be familiar with Bella~Mella. Melanie has been my best friend for years. Her son Andrew needs a miracle. On Tuesday we found out that Andrew had a large mass on his brain. After MRI's, three lesions were discovered and they are of the agressive type. The Doctors will know more on Monday or Tuesday after some tests come back as to how to treat this case. Basically, we need God to perform divine healing on Andrew's body. The whole family needs your prayers. Pray for healing, pray for peace, pray for comfort, pray for Doctors to have divine wisdom and knowledge. PRAY FOR A MIRACLE!

Melanie's daughter is keeping her blog updated with information as they receive it. You can go here for details and to stay current with the situation. I am asking each of you to spread the word to all the faith believing blog buddies you know. I believe that the unified prayers of God's people can and will make a difference. We know that when we join together in unity, asking our Father in Heaven for mercy, He will not turn a deaf ear to our crys.

This family is precious. They need our prayers. Please pray.

God bless you all.

~Alisa

Be Still and Listen

2009-08-27T18:01:00.003-04:00

Hello dear readers! I've missed my time away from blogging these past 2 1/2 weeks. I've had to take a leave of absence so to speak. Actually I've been still and listening. Have you ever been at a crossroads? Faced with choices and all of them seem hard and not right? I've been there this month. My Dad always said that unless you know the right thing to do, be still and listen. Listen to your heart. Listen to wise counsel but most of all and most importantly listen to the still small voice of God. That's where I've been friends. Listening. Waiting. Being still.

My best friend is going through a very dark place. Read about it here. My heart is there. My spirit crys out day and night for her and for Andrew and the whole family. In the midst of my storm, a hurricane is raging in my friend's life. My concerns are no longer a thought. IF you pray and believe in the miracle working power of an Almighty God, please pray for young Andrew. We are believing for a miracle of divine healing. We will shout the praise of our God from the rooftops! We know that nothing is too hard for Him.

30 Days, 30 Tips to Budget Friendly Home Decor- Day 10

2009-08-10T19:00:00.013-04:00

Hello! Long time, no see! I've been on a 4-day holiday from blogging. Sorry about the interruption in the 30 Days, 30 Tips to Budget Friendly Home Decor. Every now and then life gets so hectic that you just can't fit anymore into your day. I was going to post about adding WHIMSY to your home without looking cheesy but I've decided to save that for Friday. Today, I want to share some tips about adding a designer look to your bedroom. These tips can work for any style; classic, contemporary, cottage, or country. I personally lean toward classic decor so the inspiration pictures that I will feature reflect that style. Day 10 - Tip 10:

RESTYLE YOUR BED

The biggest impact you can make in a bedroom is restyling your bedding. You don't have to spend a fortune to get the look of luxury. A few simple tricks can take your bed from blah to beautiful! I personally like to shop dicount retailers for designer or high quality bed linens and mix and match. Very seldom do I buy a full ensemble. If I can find what I want, I have a seamstress sew one up for me. When restyling your bed keep in mind that the bed is usually the focal point of the room. Therefore, think layers, texture, pattern and color. What feel are youi going for? Remember you want to create a bed that calls to you to jump in and relax. Nothing is better than snuggling down in to your comfortable bed at the end of a long day! Here's a few things to keep in mind:

1. Build from the bottom up. That means start with the bedskirt. I know alot of modern decor features no skirts and the comforter or duvet tucked in for a clean, streamlined look but for me I like the look of layered luxury. If your bedskirt contrasts with the flooring, it will frame your bed and allow it to take center stage as your focal point in the room. If your bedskirt blends in with the flooring, you then create a soft cloud of relaxation. I have used box pleat skirts, ruffled skirts and softly gathered skirts that puddle on the floor around the bed. I am currently using a box-pleat version in a gold and pewter jacquard.

2. The next step is to put on the sheets. I have fallen in love with luxury bed sheets of 500 thread count or higher. I find most of these at places like Ross, TJMaxx, HomeGoods and Marshalls. Once you've slept on high thread count sheets nothing else comes close to comfort. I make my bed by tucking the flat sheet all around the edges and folding back the flat sheet. I ofter use contrasting colors or patterns. You don't have to keep everything is sets. Mix and match for interest. Keep your pillowcases matching but change your fitted and flat sheet around to create a custom look.

3. Next, top the bed. I prefer to use a quilt, blanket or matelasse coverlet. To keep the look restful and inviting, I opt for a muted solid. In my master, I am partial to greens, golds, and earthy browns. Fold your flat sheet over the blanket by 10 to 12 inches, then tuck the sides and ends under the mattress.

4. Add a folded duvet or comforter at the foot of the bed. Here's where you can add color and pattern. Since it will be folded, the color and pattern will not overwhelm the restful feel of the room. I like to use a down-filled comforter and change out the duvet cover with the seasons. I look for colors that will mix with my Euro Shams in gold and bedskirt in gold and pewter. These items I use year round but by changing my duvet, I can keep my room in season.

5. Top with pillows. I have a tall headboard to my bed, so I prop two Euro shams against the headboard. You could also do this against the wall. Then I layer two standard shams in front. I like to add contrasting color and pattern with the standard shams.

6. Lastly, I add my accent pillows. Here is the fun part. You can introduce more color, more pattern, more texture in small doses. I recommend two to three accent pillows. Any more than three and your bed will look crowded.

Love this look! This is a guest room featuring two twin beds. The soft color, crisp white sheets and subtle pattern on the headboard creates a look of refined tranquility.

These bedrooms ooze luxury.

Tomorrow I'll talk about improvising when you don't have what you want. Until then,

Live Life Beautifully,

~Alisa

30 Days, 30 Tips to Budget Friendly Home Decor - Day 9

2009-08-06T15:22:00.004-04:00

Okay, here's an easy and inexpensive tip for Day 9 - Decorate with Dishes.

They are not used just for eating our meals anymore. Pretty displays can grace your walls with elegance and color. I have used plates in bedrooms, living rooms, powder rooms, and porches - you name it and I've probably put a plate there! Why? Because plates are cheap art. Clearance tables can be a treasure trove of odds and ends and most of the time they are marked down so low that you can buy several to make a pretty display. In fact, today I was in one of my favorite home decor stores and found oodles of plates marked down to $1 each. For $11 I get a gorgeous grouping of color and pattern. Because of their three dimensional quality, plates add texture to your walls, shelves and cabinets. A collection of similar colors or patterns gives you big impact and lots of possibilities. The best part? You can always use them for serving food when you decide to change your wall decor. Here a collection of blue and white dishes repeat the blue color in this yellow breakfast room.
A casual, country family room uses more blue and white plates to play off the blue checked chair.

Lining a plate rack or hutch with a collection of similar colored plates add big drama.

I love the way this French sitting room displays a collection of fruit and floral plates in the bookshelves. Against the red interior of the shelves the plates really pop!

Here's a great idea my Mother often uses - a display shelf and window treatment! No need for a topper or cornice just add panels and let the plate shelf do the rest.

Plates over the mantle add another layer of interest to this grouping.

Don't have a hutch or expensive plate rack? Build your own! A simple rack like this one costs less than $20 to build and the simple, clean lines allow the plates to speak for themselves.

Here is another "Great Wall of China". I love this! Talk about impact and drama!

Repeating the round shape of these pretty plates, a circular grouping carries the design element further.

Notice the trio of white plates hanging between the windows? The tone on tone quality of this display adds elegance to this refined dining room.

A dozen identical plates find a new use as a decorative element against the casing of this window.

Talk about drama! A collage of mix-n-match plates steal the show!

Here, a classic collection of blue and white pottery is traditionally displayed inside a wooden hutch. The dishes add high contrast to the reddish wood tones and red wall paint.

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Framed wall art can be pricey and if you are on a tight budget or just starting out, try your hand at decorating with dishes and pottery. Yard sales, consignment shops, Goodwill and Salvation Army stores offer a variety of inexpensive dishes to choose from. You can also find beautiful patterns at department store closeouts and discount retailers like HomeGoods, Marshalls, TJMaxx and Ross. Kirkland's offers a big variety of themed decorative plates and let's not forget about treasured hand-me-downs from our Grandmother and Mother! Recently when my own mother downsized and moved to NC, I lucked up and was given her entire collection of Ironstone! Yeah me! I just finished displaying it in my dining room. I'll share pictures soon.

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Tomorrow I'll post Tip 10. I believe every home should have a little whimsy so we'll talk about how to pull that off without looking cheesy. Until then,

Live Life Beautifully!

~Alisa

30 Days, 30 Tips for Budget Friendly Home Decor - Day 9

2009-08-05T19:19:00.004-04:00

Today's budget friendly tip is for all of us FABRIC lovers! I absolutely adore textiles! From rugs to upholstery to custom drapes and bedding, I just can't get enough. Located in Gastonia, NC is a little shop called MaryJo's. Talk about a fabric lover's dream! You could spend hours looking through breathtaking patterns, colors and designs. The problem with textiles is that some of them can be really pricey. Why is it that the fabrics I always fall in love with are at the top end of the scale? When I was a kid Mama used to say I had champagne taste and a Kool-aid pocketbook. Well years of experience has taught me some tricks to get the look I want without breaking the bank. Have you ever fallen for a pricey fabric? Well in case you have and walked away because of sticker shock here's a few ideas to help you out next time. 1. Buy only a yard of your "to die for fabric" and use it on pillows. To stretch your yardage, find a lower priced coordinating fabric for the back and finish off your pillow will pretty trims.

2. Make a table runner or napkins. It's amazing what punch you can get from a designer fabric displayed front and center on your dining room table.

3. Make a throw. Buy some inexpensive lining and sew the fabrics together and finish with tassels or cording. Drape your new custom throw over the back of your sofa, chair or headboard.

4. Cover plain white drum lamp shades. Use spray adhesive to attach the fabric. To finish the look tie a tassel around the top finial of the lamp and allow it to drape over the front of the shade.

5. Another quick and easy way to display designer fabric is by creating cornices. These can be made out of lightweight plywood. Spray adhesive does that trick for attaching the fabric to the wood. Finish off by adding decorative molding. Use inexpensive window panels or sheers below the cornice to finish the treatment.

Beautiful fabrics really personalize your home. Being clever and using pricey fabrics sparingly allows you to acheive big designer impact for little $$$$.
These inspiration pictures are from Calico Corners. One of my favorite home decor stores.

If you are a professional designer you can sign up for designer discounts and receive special-to the-trade offers on closeouts and sales.

With fabric the possibilities are ENDLESS! Stop by for tomorrow's tip - Decorating with Dishes!

Until I see you again,

Keep on Decorating!

Live Life Beautifully,

~Alisa

30 Days, 30 Tips to Budget Friendly Home Decor - Day 8

2009-08-04T19:20:00.004-04:00

If you are new to my blog let me first say "thanks" for stopping by. Secondly, I am in the middle of a month long segment - "30 Days, 30 Tips to Budget Friendly Home Decor". I was listening to the news this week and a financial analyst was saying that our economy is showing signs of improvement! Yeah! That's good news. He also went on to say that Americans HAVE money but we are holding on to it and are making wiser decisions about how we spend, what we repair, restore and reuse and where we invest. The really good news is that Americans are staying home more and investing in, well, "nesting". So today's tip is about using what you have in a new and creative way. Day 8 - Tip 8:

Reuse, Restore, Repurpose

Using what we have in new ways is always fun. Looking at an old object and thinking of creative ways to put it to use can be a challenge but with a little inspiration you can find new meaning in that junk you were going to give to Goodwill. Here I will share some inspiration with you that will make you think twice before heading to the dumpster.

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1. The picture above shows a home office desk that has been made from an old, hollow-core door. All that was needed was a good sanding, a couple coats of primer and paint, and the addition of some table legs picked up at Lowe's and viola you have a great desk.

2. Okay, I LOVE this! A wooden wall cupboard that was rescued from an old farmhouse is restored to beauty and used in this modern kitchen as extra storage.

3. Egg cups! They're not just for Easter anymore. Use a collection of these mini cups as desk organizers. They are the perfect size for pushpins, paper clips, staples, stamps, etc. And they have so much more style than those plastic holders from the big box office stores.

4. Notice the white sideboard? It use to be an old table. A new granite top has been added as well as a fresh coat of white paint and two additional shelves for storage. What was sure to end up in the trash heap has now found new meaning.

5. The biggest problem with crafts and hobbies is usually where to store everything. Well here is a solution. An old bedroom armoire was salvaged from Goodwill and converted to a nifty home sewing center. When you are done, close the doors and the clutter is out of sight.

6. Don't bake in those muffin pans anymore? That's okay, use them as drawer organizers. The little cups are great for keeping your desk drawers neat and tidy.

7. Turn an old, wooden fruit crate in to a storage bin for extra pillows and blankets. When set upon a luggage stand it offers a convenient and stylish solution for storage.

8. In it's former life this utility cabinet housed cans of paint, household cleaners and hand tools. Newly purposed, painted and enhanced, it provides needed pantry space in a tiny kitchen. Adding cork tiles to the inside of a door panel provides a great place to tack up important reminders or shopping lists.

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With just a little thought and consideration you can just about find a new purpose for most household items. I'd love to hear about anything you were planning to toss but kept and reused. Tomorrow we'll talk about the soft side of style. I hope you will stop by.

Until then,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

30 Days, 30 Tips to Budget Friendly Home Decor - Day 7

2009-08-03T20:34:00.004-04:00

Okay, we've made it to Day 7 - a full week of budget friendly ideas to help us create a great space that looks like we hired a designer. The best part is that a lot of these tips didn't cost us a dime and the ones that did were budget friendly. Now, stay with me on this one because some folks might think I'm a little crazy. Today's tip can add color, pattern and big drama to any room even if used sparingly.

Day 7- Tip 7:

Wallpaper has made a comeback!

Yes, that's right wallpaper is hot, hot, hot and we are seeing beautiful and modern papers pop up in designer showhomes everywhere. Recently I toured some model homes in my area. Wallpaper was used is lots of rooms as accents or as decorative elements to add color and pattern. Try wallpaper:

1. As an accent wall behind your bed

2. Create a focal wall in a room void of architectural details

3. Add picture frame molding to your walls in the dining room and paper inside the frame for instant pattern and color

4. Paper above the mantel or try is on the ceiling

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Today's designers are using wallpaper in small doses instead of papering a whole room. This is a great alternative and makes easy work of stripping the paper when you decide to redecorate. I love to use papers with a subtle pattern and tone-on-tone variations. I recently purchased 1 double roll of a nature-inspired design in soft muted shades of yellow, cream, gold and tan. The colors are closely related and from a distance the paper looks like a solid color. I will use this paper inside picture frame molding in a Master Bedroom. I plan to hang art inside the molding and the wallpaper will create a pretty background for my art. I'm posting some pictures from my Idea File. I love the picture above of the patchwork wall. The color and the punch of pattern makes a bold statement in an otherwise understated room. Notice how the rest of the furnishings are solid. The picture below demonstrates how you can coordinate patches of different papers to create this custom look.

Here is a clever idea - use pretty wallpaper to cover a room screen. This is an oversized damask in lime and white. The paper is a perfect match to the green wall color and adds just the right amount of pattern to keep things interesting.
If you must paper an entire room, make it your bathroom or powder room. Here this coral paper with the oversized fruit and floral pattern doesn't overwhelm because it is toned down with the white tile, tub and surround.
If papering the walls isn't for you, try your hand at a little custom headboard. This pretty paper becomes the focal point of the room and pops against a solid wall.
Another fun idea is to seek and find old dressers and chests at Goodwill or your local Salvation Army store. Paint their frames a solid color and cover the drawers in a coordinating wall paper. Finish it off with some artsy little drawer pulls and you have a one-of-a-kind treasure.
You would be amazed at what one double roll of paper can do to brighten your home. Depending on the wallpaper you choose, prices can be upwards to $75 per double roll or more for designer papers. However, if you google wallpaper outlets you can find a plethora of options to fit your budget. I paid a whopping $15 for my nature-inspired double-roll I mentioned earlier. Shop around and be creative. A little goes a long way.

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Tomorrow I'll talk about repurposing common household items. Another great idea for adding big impact for little $$$$$. Until then,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

30 Days, 30 Tips to Budget Friendly Home Decor - Day 6

2009-08-02T14:38:00.007-04:00

We've made it to day 6 of my 30 day segment. From the comments and e-mails I've received this week, I am happy to hear that these tips are useful. I do appreciate your comments and I am honored that you read and enjoy my posts. Most everybody I know wants their home to be comfortable and stylish. Each person may have a different definition of style but most people know what they like and tend to fill their homes with objects that add to their style. I make decorating my home a process. It evolves over time. I'm always on the lookout for something that I will truly cherish. Over the years I've learned a few tricks that has helped me fill my home with beauty while maintaining a budget. So today I will share these tips. Day 6 - Tip 6:

Timing is Everything

Incredible values can be found at places like TJMaxx, Marshalls, HomeGoods, Hobby Lobby and Steinmart and Kirklands. All of these stores sell a wonderful collections of home furnishings and accessories. I have found gorgeous items at these places for just pennies on the dollar of what you would pay in home decor stores or department stores. Here's some tips to live by:

1. Find out when TJMaxx, Marshalls and HomeGoods recieve new shipments. These stores usually have a rule of thumb to clear their backrooms and stock within 24 hours of a truck. Shop on the days when they stock. Your odds of finding the best selection are in your favor.

2. Always start with the clearance shelves. Why? Because stores like these take new markdows EVERY week. In order to stock new merchandise, they have to clear out older items to make room.

3. Stores like Steinmart and Kirklands have regular inventory turn. Find out when they have seasonal markdowns and shop clearance.

4. Hobby Lobby has regular sales of 50% off! If what you are looking for isn't on sale this week, I bet it will be next week. Yesterday I wanted to purchase some fall ribbon for bows. I am making new wreaths for the doors and wanted some new ribbon. The Autumn ribbon was full price but the Christmas ribbon (yes, they already have out all of their Christmas merchandise) was 1/2 off! I found a copper and brown ribbon that would work perfectly for fall. It was only $4.99 for 30 feet vs. the $10 for 30 feet of Autumn ribbon.

5. Make a friend. At each of the home decor stores where you like to shop, become friendly with one of the sales associates. Let her know what you are looking for or the types of things you like. Give her your phone number and ask her to call you if she sees something you might like go on clearance. This past week I found a beautiful dressing table for my bedroom that was 80% off! I also learned of a 90% off sale at Hobby Lobby on a collection of bronze finials that caught my eye! There's absolutely no need to pay full price for anything. If you plan your space and keep an eye out for bargains, you can have a designer-look and BIG impact for a little money!

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As I mentioned above I've started working on some of my Autumn decor. I am designing a new wreath for my front door and a new centerpiece for the dining room table. Here in Charlotte we have a store called Black Lion. They sell the most beautiful home decor accessories, furniture and florals. They have geared up for fall and I took a few pictures for inspiration. Enjoy!

Tomorrow I will share Tip 7. Be sure to check it out and follow along each day as we post ideas for Budget Friendly Home Decorating! Until then,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

30 Days, 30 Tips to Budget Friendly Home Decor - Day 5

2009-08-01T10:04:00.004-04:00

Oops! I'm a day late on my Tip 5 post! Sorry :-(

This tips is worth the wait however! If you can only spend money on one thing to add panache to your space, this is where I recommend you invest. WINDOWS!

Day 5 - Tip 5:

Window Treatments

Kim Myles of the popular HGTV show, Myles of Style is quoted as saying:

"Window are like your room's eyes. They look fine natural, but a bit of mascara always makes them pop."

I love that analogy. I totally agree with Kim. From personal experience I've seen what a simple change out of window treatments can do for the entire room. The fabric and pattern you use can set the tone for your space and determine the rooms style. Because we use windows as focal points, it's a great move to embellish them in a manner that will add a wow factor to the room. Bold color, graphic patterns, fabrics with a sheen can create that "umphf" we all long for.

Here's some tips:

1. If your windows are small, extend your curtain rods as far past the sides of your window as possible.

2. Hang your panels to the side of the window.

3. Leave all but the edges of window exposed, thus creating a look of a larger window.

4. If your room has low ceilings, hang your curtain rods as high as possible.

5. This will give your room a grand appearance.

6. Layering your windows with a variety of textures adds warmth and depth. Bamboo shades behind Damask or Toile panels is a classic look that can be applied to formal rooms or casual rooms.

7. Window treatments DO NOT have to cost a lot of money. Search closeouts at stores like Marshalls, HomeGoods, Ross, and TJMaxx. Target also has a great selection of panels, sheers and shades. Shop their clearance shelves. If you find something you like but there isn't enough panels to treat your windows, ask the Customer Service desk to call another store near by. Most of the time they will have what you need and will hold it for you until you can pick it up.

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Later today I will post Tip 6 to get us back on track. Until then.

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

30 Days, 30 Tips for Budget Friendly Home Decor - Day 4

2009-07-30T19:54:00.006-04:00

This is Day 4 in my segment "30 Days, 30 Tips". Again, this tip can add BIG impact for little or no money. Your biggest investment here will be time but it's time well spent! I love looking through decorating magazine and books. I am always drawn to the what's on the walls. Today's tip shares some great pointers on how to get a designer look with just a little effort.

Day 4 - Tip 4:

The look of Big Art

Needless to say, but art tells a lot about you. It sets the personality profile for your rooms and speaks volumes about what you are attracted to and where your passions lie. I walked into a potential client's home and her walls were filled with black and white photography all stylishly framed in modern black frames with ivory matting. The subject of each photograph was a person. Each person was a family member. I knew right away where her heart was. Another lady had me come over to consult about a new color palette for her formal rooms. Tapestries, oil paintings and pottery were displayed throughout her home - each one silently speaking of the Italian countryside and her ancestry.

To get the look of big art in your home assemble similar things in various sizes. Think of paintings, mirrors, plates, vases or photographs. Gather them together in a collage and display them over the head of your bed or behind your sofa or table. They will have much more impact displayed as a collection and they will add big drama to your room. Designer's have known and used this trick for decades.

Perhaps you don't have a collection of similar objects to display in this manner. It's so easy to make your own. Most Photo Labs are able to print quality enlargements of your candid pictures in an hour or less. Pick up inexpensive frames at a discount retailer or outlet store. Use scrapebook paper for matting rather than spending big bucks on custom mats. In a couple of hours you will be set to display your new collage. The same process can work with pressed leaves or dried flowers. My mother once cut beautiful pictures from old cookbooks and assembled a gorgeous collage for our formal dining room! You can pick old cookbooks up at garage sales for pennies!

With a little effort and time invested wisely you can pull off the look of BIG art for little $$$!

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Tomorrow I'll share Tip 5. If you can only spend money on one thing, then this is where you should invest! Until then,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

30 Days, 30 Tips to Budget Friendly Home Decor - Day 3

2009-07-29T18:57:00.006-04:00

Welcome! Come right on in!

Today is Day 3 in my segment "30 Days, 30 Tips for Budget Friendly Home Decor". I was inspired to do this segment after speaking to several people who want to freshen up their home a bit but don't have a big budget. So for 30 consecutive days I will post a tip for making the most of your space by adding BIG IMPACT for little $$$.

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Day 3 - Tip 3:

Getting over Matched Sets

For many years the furniture business has made us think that we have to have matched sets - matched end tables, matched bedroom suites, matched dinning chairs, matched lamps and so on. Well, if you want your home to look like a furniture showroom then matched sets work but if you want your home to have a comfortable, evolved-over-time appeal then ungroup your matched sets and pull together a look that is warm, lived-in and inviting.

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1. Walk through your home and take note of how many "sets" you have in each room. Where could you use one of the items from the pair and how could you use it differently?

2. Swap out a lamp from your living room and pair it with a lamp from your bedroom or some other area of your home.

3. Try using one of your matched end tables as a bedside table or accent table.

4. Try adding two wing chairs at the ends of your dining room table and use the two dining chairs in your entry or hall.

5. Mix 'n match wood tones throughout your home in a daring manner to add excitement and movement to the room.

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Keep in mind that somethings are better off staying together. Grouping a collection of ironstone, vintage clocks, pottery or plates have more design appeal and impact when displayed together rather than scattered throughout the house.

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As an update, I am still unable to upload any new pictures from my camera. I hope to have this issue resolved by the weekend. I do have some wonderful pictures of my New Glamour masterbath. The soft palette of yellow-green, chocolate and brushed nickle really added a "wow" factor. I also have a new tablescape to share featuring my Mother's white Johnson Bros. dishes. But before you go, browse through some of my idea file pics for mixing and matching your way to a fabulous home. The chairs and chaise lounge are unified with slipcovers but the glass and iron coffee table plays off the oak accent table in the background.

This living room is a study in "a little of this and a little of that" just like a French chef concocting his famous pastry. Various wood tones, brass and glass cocktail table, black lacquered writing desk - it's all here!

While the two distressed side tables and lamps match, they play off of the solid center console and tone down the formal feel of symmetry.

Drop by tomorrow for Day 4! Until then,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

30 Days, 30 Tips to Budget Friendly Home Decor - Day 2

2009-07-28T18:39:00.001-04:00

Hey it's Day 2 in my "30 Days, 30 Tips" segment. The feedback from yesterday's post is great! It's nice to see that so many of you have already found the magic of furniture rearrangement. Today I am going to talk about paint. Color is the second easiest way to add budget friendly style to your room. Day 2 - Tip 2:

Accent Color

Color is amazing! Even the slightest variation of white can change the mood of your room, effect your lighting and show-off your furnishings in a new way. It's like make-up! Us ladies know that a little blush or bronzer can give us that healthy glow we long for. Well, the same is true with your wall color. Choosing color wisely can make a big impact for a little money. Depending on the paint you purchase, you are looking at $12-$50 per gallon. Most quality paints will run around $30.

Rooms dressed in warm colors like yellow, peach, chocolate and beigey-neutrals send out an inviting welcome to come in and visit. Cool shades like blue, green, aqua and cool grays allow us to rest and relax as they embrace us in tranquility. The firey tones of red and oranage promote happiness, excitement and conversation and are perfect colors for any areas of your home where you want to promote socializing.

With today's wide range of modern neutrals, even the color phobic have an unlimited palette of "whites" to choose from. These new whites are tinted with ever so soft shades that lean toward warm or cool. A word of caution though, test your color in the room before committing. Natural and incandescent lighting will change the color once it's on your walls. Other colors can also be reflected from flooring, furnishings and window treatments.

I once made a terrible mistake by choosing wall color without testing it in the room. The room had 4 large west facing windows. At sunset the yellow-orange glow streaming through the windows changed my yellow-green wall paint to a shade that was harsh and unbearable. Repainting isn't that hard to do but it certainly is a time drain so pick wisely.

At $30 per gallon, adding accent color is an inexpensive way to add big impact. Even a quart of color on a small accent wall can be just the lift you need. I'd like to hear from you. Are you a color fanatic or color-phobic? What colors or neutrals do you use most? What's your favorite wall color? Tomorrow is Day 3 and I'll post another tip so check it out and don't forget to comment. Until then,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

30 Days, 30 Tips to Budget Friendly Home Decor - Day 1

2009-07-27T17:12:00.008-04:00

Hey, thanks for stopping by today for the launch of my new feature called

"30 Days, 30 Tips to Budget Friendly Home Decorating".

These tips are loaded with big-impact for little $$$. Over the last few months I've talked with a lot of Moms, Singles, and Empty-nesters. It seems they all want the same thing - easy, doable home decor updates using what they already have or budget friendly ideas that WON'T break the bank! So that's been the inspiration for this special feature. Each day I will post a new tip. Today's tip is so easy and best of all IT'S FREE! It won't cost you one penny and believe me it makes a huge impact!

Day 1 - Tip 1:

FURNITURE REARRANGEMENT

This is so easy! One of the best ways to get an instant "Umphf" from your interior space is to rearrange your furniture and accessories. Just positioning your furniture in a new configuration is sometimes all you need to create a new mood. Always start with the bigger pieces such as your sofa in the living room or table in the dining room and your bed in the bedroom.

I like to clean out the entire room and start from stratch. This might not be doable if you have big, bulky pieces. In which case take out all the small, accent furniture so you will have plenty of room to work. Reposition the key pieces then add back the smaller accents.

A good rule to keep in mind is that every room should have a FOCAL POINT. This could be a fireplace, window or a wall decorated with a gorgeous piece of art. Orient your largest piece of furniture in the room towards this focal point. In my living room I have my sofa facing my fireplace. In my dining room I have my table facing a double window. The den has two focal points and so I have the sofa facing one and the loveseat facing the other. Don't be afraid to angle seating pieces and tables or to pull your sofa, loveseat or bed out away from the wall.

Once you have rearranged the furniture, come back and "sign your name". This is the part I like best! This is when you accessorize your tables, bookshelves, mantles and walls. You will be astounded at the difference you will feel in your own space once you regarrange things. I like to keep my family guessing so every 3-4 months I change it up a bit. During the Fall and Winter months I pull my furniture close together - to the center of the room and place tables and consoles around the walls. During the Spring and Summer, I like to spread things out and allow the air to circulate. No matter how much or how little you rearrange, it will make a big impact for little effort!

Hope you find this tried and true tip useful. I'd love to hear how you rearranged a room to add impact and freshness! Tomorrow I will share Tip 2. Don't miss it! Until then,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

Where's a Techno Guru when you need one?

2009-07-24T10:37:00.007-04:00

Hi there! In case you've checked for my Tablescape this week, I've had a little technical difficulties. For some reason which I have yet to figure out, I can not import new pictures from my digital camera. I really need a Techno Guru to help me out! So until I get this little problem solved I will be stuck posting inspiration pictures from the net or old pictures from my files. On Wednesday I posted about how I am already in the mood for Fall. I thought I would share this simple photo of a lovely Autumn Tablescape. I think the white tablecloth gives a fresh face to this fall table. Many times we think of rich, saturated color during the fall months but this table proves that you can add warmth and coziness to your table without adding heavy color. Here are some tips for achieving this casually elegant look:

Keep it FRESH. Build upon table linens that are white or ivory then layer in the warm colors of fall - gold, green, touches of orange and rust.
Use variations of SOFT COLOR. Notice the monochromatic color of the dishes. The colors are all within a similar color family and the intensity of each color is ever so slight. This lends a clean, modern look to the table.
Feature an EYE-POPPING CENTERPIECE. When using a subdued color palette in your linens and dishes, opt for a show-stopping centerpiece. Here colorful candles, miniture pumpkins and gourds do the trick.
Add a touch of whimsy. The single pressed Maple leaf tucked beneath a slim leather strap is all the adornment needed for these classic ivory napkins. The pressed leaves give a nod to nostalgia when as an elementary student, you would gather leaves and press them between pages of a book for use in a science project.

Hopefully, I will be able to correct my camera problem soon. I have some wonderful pictures to share of my NEW GLAMOUR master-bath and a trip to the BLACK LION of their annual Summer Tent-Sale. On Monday I will begin posting "30 Days, 30 Tips to Low-Budget Home Decorating". I hope you will join me! Until then,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

Vintage Finds

2009-07-22T14:08:00.005-04:00

I love to display items in my home that have meaning! Old, vintage pieces handed down from my Mother and Grandmother are the best. However, every now and then I find something really eyecatching at a second hand store or shop that manages to make its way home with me. Decorating with old or vintage accessories can add charm to any room whether they are classic finds or simply vintage inspired. Accessories are an easy way to add personal flair to your home. Browsing flea-markets, auctions or antique stores are sure to turn up some fun and unique items like these ceramic birds and the old movie tickets. I am so into shades of teal, blue, green, turquoise and aqua this summer. These birds really caught my eye. I love the slight contrast between the birds and the planter. This is what insired my tablescape for this week. Stop by tomorrow for the "reveal".

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While we are on the topic of reveals, I am still working on my Glamour Bath. I had a little mishap and injured my left shoulder. I thought it was getting better but I had a slight relapse. We also ran into a little electrical issue that Mr. Panache had to solve. I am hoping that we will have this little project completed by the weekend.

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I may be rushing the season, but I am already in the mood for fall. I was out shopping with my Mom last week and was shocked at how many stores have Autumn and Christmas decor displayed. This year I've decided to craft a new Fall wreath for my front door. I've used the same one for about 6 years now and it's ready to be retired. I stopped by Hobby Lobby on Saturday and was inspired by all the fall floral picks and gourds! I usually start decorating for fall immediately after Labor Day. This year I may be a little late because I will holding a Life and Style by God's Design Women's Conference in Largo, Florida with my ministry partner, Melanie Dorsey. The conference is on the 11th and 12th of September. If you are in the Tampa Bay area and you would like to attend, registration is only $28 and that includes a catered lunch and take home gift. You would be most WELCOME! I would love to meet you and I am sure you would enjoy the conference. You can register by calling Patty at 727-595-2034.

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Until I see you again,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

Tablescape Thursday - Life is just Beachy

2009-07-15T17:05:00.008-04:00

Welcome to TABLESCAPE THURSDAY! We're right smack in the middle of summer and I thought I would post a table this week that reflects my love for the beach. Cool water, sandy white beaches and vibrant shades of blue and turquoise equal paradise on Florida's west coast. Since moving to NC, I get to enjoy the beach two or three times per year so this tablescape takes me back home ...I can feel those summer breezes right now! Sea shells, an ecru crocheted tablecloth that resembles a net and a color palette of blue, turquoise and ivory provides the perfect backdrop to my Life is Just Beachy table.

A silver shell serving dish, turquoise glass beads and a star fish add panache and beachy flair.

Blue and white shell coasters add some whimsy to a laid-back, khaki shorts and white linen shirt type of affair!

I started with a turquoise placemat and layered a round placemat on top woven from blue straw. My favorite IVORY dishes are paired with my white sea shell salad plates. I love to use various shades of white and ivory together. The subtle variations are just like the sand on the seashore.

A turquoise candle plate in the center of the salad plate adds more color and a little romance when the candle is glowing as your guests come in to dine.

Brown lanterns in three sizes are the focal points of the centerpiece. Each contains an Ivory pillar candle and offers a soft glow of candlelight.

Starfish, conch shells and other treasures from the sea are scattered along the tabletop. Small cut crystal votives hold small ivory candles and enhance the soft, summery mood.

I found these Starfish napkin rings at Bed, Bath and Beyond while I lived in FL. The bronze-y, brown color is a nice complement to the other beachy shades.

I hope you've enjoyed dinner at the beach! Even more so, I hope you are enjoying your summer. I can't believe that we are halfway through July! Wasn't it just the 4th? Before you know it, school will be back in session and the lazy days of summer will be but a memory. We better enjoy it while we can!

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Be sure to pop over to visit Susan at BNATP for more inspiring tables! Until I see you again,

Happy Tablescaping!

Alisa

New GLAMOUR - Edgy & Elegant

2009-07-14T20:06:00.003-04:00

I'm so fickle! Just recently (about 9 months ago) I updated my Master Bed and Bath with a blue, brown and gold color scheme. It had been years since I had used blue in my personal decor. Blue was just not a color that I was naturally drawn too. Mr. Panache on the other hand LOVES blue. It's his favorite color so I decided to update our Bedroom and Bath and add blue. Now I'm blue...it's just not getting it for me. Back in May my BFF, Bella~Mella, came for a visit and we attended a conference together. In her bag she had packed a copy of Home Depot's "Connect with Color - Design and Color Trends by BEHR". As we flipped through the booklet we talked about colors, design, personal style and what we liked and didn't like. Now, I'm not a trendy decorator but every now and again a trend will actually get it right and go from trendy to classic in a flash. I knew when I saw their "New Glamour" palette, it would eventually work its way into my house. NEW GLAMOUR is tradition with a twist, a look that's relaxing and unabashedly luxurious. Living with a house full of guys I try not to decorate or furnish our home with too much "fem" appeal but luxury isn't necessarily feminine so off I go to pull together a NEW GLAMOUR look without spend more than $100! Think I can do it? I do! Let's look at the Color Story: Here's BEHR's tips for New Glamour:

Popular colors for this style include natural yellow-infused greens.
Accents are expressive browns, soft yellows and color-touched whites.
New Glamour lends itself to mixing and matching traditional design elements with metallic embroidered fabric and eye popping accents.
Natural motifs such as flowers and leafs are popular.
Strong accents are added in ceramics of all shapes and sizes.
Walls should be clean and netural.
Luxury should be added through accessories and high-end, quality fabrics such as damask and brocade.
Subtle contrasting tones can be introduced through fabric, wallpapers and accessories.

Here's my plan:

I plan to start in the Master Bath and work into the Bedroom.
I am going to re-stain the maple vanities in a rich Espresso polystain.
Replace the cabinet hardware with Brushed Nickle.
Replace the blue and beige fabric curtain with a pair of green, silk taffeta panels.
Refinish my Mother's antique chandy in Hammered Silver and hang it over my garden tub.
Shop the house and add a few accessories to glam it up.
Stay within a $100 budget.

Here are a couple pics from the former bathroom re-do.

Yes, the cheetah print stays!

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Tomorrow I will start working on the vanities using some great tips from Rhoda over at Southern Hospitality. Next, I will refinish that old chandelier and get Mr. Pananche to hang it up. I'll finish up with painting those walls and accessorizing the space. If all goes well I will have the reveal posted next Monday. Until I see you again,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

Stylish Decorating with Monograms

2009-07-11T10:14:00.005-04:00

MONOGRAMS! They are making a big comeback! For me, nothing is more stylish or sophisticated than monogrammed bath towels and bed linens. Done right, monograms can lend an air of elegance to a room like none other. Done wrong or overdone, monograms can be tacky. I recently learned of a Monogram Party being given for a Bride-to-Be. What a fresh twist on the traditional Bridal Shower! What young women isn't enthralled with her new married name and initials? I remember when Mr. Panache and I were married. I would spend what seemed like hours scrawling my "new" name on sheets of plain paper. A friend gave me stationary of ivory linen with my newly wed monogram. For the longest time I wouldn't even use it. It was too beautiful for use or at least that's what I thought at the time. Years have past and I have learned to appreciate such fine, personal gifts and the joy you get from indulging in such a luxury. Monograms always add such lovely touches. They are almost as personal as our signature for very few of us have the same three initials as those in our circle of family and friends. When you think of the array of products that may be monogrammed, the list seems endless. Silver is always a great choice but my very favorite is linens. Imagine being able to pass them down through the generations - how soft and supple quality linens become with tender care and gentle use. The pictures that follow are some from my IDEA file. Enjoy browsing around. I hope you are inspired to add a monorgram or two to your personal space. This is may favorite! I LOVE monogrammed pillowcases or shams. This is DONE RIGHT! White bed linens with just a touch of subdued color and the monogram kept elegantly to the pillows.

Here's a great idea. If you want the look of a monogram but don't have the time nor the talent to embroider it yourself, try using fabric paint and a stencil. This wooden bench features decorative linen pillows that have been stenciled. You can pick up stencils, paint, and even fabric at Hobby Lobby to make your own.

I adore this idea! Rather than adding your initial, try something different and fresh - number your dinning chairs. How fun!

Notice the big letter "B" on the shower curtain? What an elegant touch and great accent to the black and white damask wallpaper. The monogrammed shower curtain doesn't compete with the pattern on the wall, but compliments it perfectly and with personal flair.

Here is another fabulous way to personalize your dining room. Tone on tone monograms in the center of the chair's backrest. For me, anything white or ivory can be decked out with a monogram in the same tone.

This glass canister is properly dressed with a family monogram on frosted glass. Understated but elegant.

Here is another one of my favorites - a black lamp shade embroidered with a white initial. Sophisticated and personal - the perfect touch in the Master Suite.

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Monday I will be starting a new bathroom project. During the packing up of my Mother's things, we found an antique chandelier decked out with 8 arms and dozens of dangling tear drops. It's an Old Gold finish presently but the plan is to refinish it in a Hammered Silver and hang it above my Jucuzzi garden tub. I'll share pictures along the way. Another little master bath project is a mini-makeover on my maple vanities. Yeah, I know! You are going to think I'm crazy but I am painting them a deep, rich espresso and installing new brushed nickle hardware. A small change but it will make a huge difference. Stay tuned.....

Until then,

Happy Decorating!

Alisa

Farmer Panache - An abundant harvest

2009-07-10T08:38:00.003-04:00

Happy Friday! TGIF! I can't believe another week is almost over! Oh, the plans I had for blogging this week! Well, sometimes things just don't work out like you plan, right? I've spent most of the week helping Mom and Dad get settled, choose a new bank, a new pharmacy, find boxes with important papers or items, and so on. Thank God we're almost done!

While I was away Mr. Panache was busy playing in the dirt. I came home to a wonderful little plot we call a "garden" which was teeming with baby vegetables. Our first crop of cucumbers were harvested this week. I was amazed at how many we took in from our "first fruits". Of course, we are rather proud of our little garden. It's the first time we've ever planted one. Like a proud mama, I thought I would share some pictures of our little ones. :-)

I love, Love, LOVE cucumbers! We eat them fresh - sliced with a little salt and cracked black pepper. We eat them as Quick Pickles - a recipe that my Mom gave us. I eat them as Cucumber Sandwiches with cream cheese and garlic, onion and dill. Of course, we eat them in salads - every salad!
Our neighbors didn't raise a garden this year but they are receiving benefits from living next door. We have so many cucumbers that we can't use them all. It's kind of neat to be able to share. I can remember when I was a little girl going to my Grandpa Lucas' house during the summer - we would ALWAYS go home with arm-loads of fresh veggies and fruits and plenty of canned goods to last for months.

I really like the whole thought of organic fruits and vegetables. No pesticides or funky chemicals have been used and they have been cared for and nurtured daily by Mr. Panache himself. We also planted greenbeans, tomatoes, corn, watermelon and banana peppers. We picked our first "mess" of greenbeans yesterday and while our tomatoes have not yet ripened, we've had some good old down-home Fried Green Tomatoes. Although, I had a little difficulty not thinking about the movie and the infamous BBQ dinner served - yuck! I hope to share more pictures with you as our garden comes in along with some new Country-style recipes that would even make Paula Deen proud!

If you have any special cucumber recipes, I would love to hear about them. Truly, we have an abundant harvest and I'm game to try something new with them.

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Thanks to everyone who dropped by to welcome me back. I've missed you all and plan to make my round of visits later today and tomorrow. I have so much to catch up on! :-)

Oh, and thanks for the "tips" for helping my parents make this big transition!

Until I see you again,

Happy Homemaking!

~Alisa

I'm Back!

2009-07-07T15:51:00.002-04:00

Whew! Three weeks and 2 days away from blogland but I am officially "back on the job". My parents have officially retired and I've spent the last three weeks helping them pack-up, load-up and move from West Virginia to North Carolina! What a big job. It is amazing what one can accumulate in 21 years of living in the same house.

Neither of my parents have ever lived outside of WV. They were both born and raised in that great state and have lived there during their entire lives together. This year they celebrated 45 years of marriage. I convinced them to move to NC to be close to me, Mr. Panache and our two sons. I didn't have to twist their arm too hard!

But what transition is ahead! If any of you have ever helped your elderly parents through this type of change I would love to hear about any tips you have.

I am starting a new interior design project this month - a family room for empty nesters. NO, not my parents but another client that wants to freshen up her space to reflect sophistication and panache. I hope to share step by step details once the project is underway.

Until then, I will be working on a couple of home organization projects and a mini-makeover for a master bath. Don't forget that Thursday is TABLESCAPE THURSDAY. It's been 3 weeks since I've participated. I hope to pull together something fun and fresh!

Hope to see you around this week!

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

The History of Flag Day

2009-06-14T15:58:00.004-04:00

Happy FLAG DAY!

Today we celebrate the Stars and Stripes! Old Glory! Red, White and Blue! I am so proud and thankful to live in America. God has truly blessed the history of our nation. I want to do my part to make sure His blessings rest on our nation for my children and my children's children. Last week my youngest son asked me if Flag Day and Independence Day were the same celebration. Of course not, I replied. One is in June, the other is in July. Well why do we celebrate both, he asked. Good question, I replied. Off to Googleland I go to research Flag Day and to learn so I can teach. I found out some interesting facts I never knew and learned the reason why we honor National Flag Day. Scroll down and read the story for yourself. And enjoy some of my Flags displayed outside our home in honor

of the American Flag. I like to keep a flag hanging by my front entry. I have an entire collection of colorful, seasonal flags and usually change them out each month. However, when May 1st rolls around Old Glory is proudly displayed and we usually keep the American Flag on display through July 4th. We display the Flag again for Labor Day and Veteran's Day. My husband, Mr. Panache was in the ARMY so he has taught us all the proper etiquette about the flag. Did you know that you are NOT suppose to leave the flag hanging overnight or in the rain unless you have a light shining on it? Or that you are suppose to display the flag with the blue union field up - never display the flag upside down. Mr. Panache installed a spotlight to shine on our flag. I love coming home after dark and seeing our flag proudly displayed in the spotlight.
Did you know that the U.S. Flag was adopted on June 14, 1777 and it is the fourth oldest national flag in the world? I thought that Britian's flag was the oldest by actually Denmark's national flag was adopted in 1219 making it the oldest national flag.

I use small parade flags in my wreath and container plants for added color and an air of patriotism. Red, White and Blue is one of my favorite summertime color combos. I try to find ways to use these colors in my decor (inside and out) throughout the summer months.

Here, I've tucked a small parade flag inside an urn of Hostas. You can usually buy 3 parade flags for $1 at the Dollar Tree or Target in the $1 Bins by the front doors. In a couple of weeks I will be doing a special JULY 4th countdown and will be showing you more ways I use the Flag, Stars and Stripes and Red, White and Blue in my summertime decor. The countdown will begin on July 1st.

More Flags displays in a bed of hot pink Petunias.

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Here's the story behind the History of Flag Day:
The Fourth of July was traditionally celebrated as America's birthday, but the idea of an annual day specifically celebrating the Flag is believed to have first originated in 1885. BJ Cigrand, a schoolteacher, arranged for the pupils in the Fredonia, Wisconsin Public School, District 6, to observe June 14 (the 108th anniversary of the official adoption of The Stars and Stripes) as 'Flag Birthday'. In numerous magazines and newspaper articles and public addresses over the following years, Cigrand continued to enthusiastically advocate the observance of June 14 as 'Flag Birthday', or 'Flag Day'.
On June 14, 1889, George Balch, a kindergarten teacher in New York City, planned appropriate ceremonies for the children of his school, and his idea of observing Flag Day was later adopted by the State Board of Education of New York. On June 14, 1891, the Betsy Ross House in Philadelphia held a Flag Day celebration, and on June 14 of the following year, the New York Society of the Sons of the Revolution, celebrated Flag Day.
Following the suggestion of Colonel J Granville Leach (at the time historian of the Pennsylvania Society of the Sons of the Revolution), the Pennsylvania Society of Colonial Dames of America on April 25, 1893 adopted a resolution requesting the mayor of Philadelphia and all others in authority and all private citizens to display the Flag on June 14th. Leach went on to recommend that thereafter the day be known as 'Flag Day', and on that day, school children be assembled for appropriate exercises, with each child being given a small Flag.
Two weeks later on May 8th, the Board of Managers of the Pennsylvania Society of Sons of the Revolution unanimously endorsed the action of the Pennsylvania Society of Colonial Dames. As a result of the resolution, Dr. Edward Brooks, then Superintendent of Public Schools of Philadelphia, directed that Flag Day exercises be held on June 14, 1893 in Independence Square. School children were assembled, each carrying a small Flag, and patriotic songs were sung and addresses delivered.
In 1894, the governor of New York directed that on June 14 the Flag be displayed on all public buildings. With BJ Cigrand and Leroy Van Horn as the moving spirits, the Illinois organization, known as the American Flag Day Association, was organized for the purpose of promoting the holding of Flag Day exercises. On June 14th, 1894, under the auspices of this association, the first general public school children's celebration of Flag Day in Chicago was held in Douglas, Garfield, Humboldt, Lincoln, and Washington Parks, with more than 300,000 children participating.
Adults, too, participated in patriotic programs. Franklin K. Lane, Secretary of the Interior, delivered a 1914 Flag Day address in which he repeated words he said the flag had spoken to him that morning: "I am what you make me; nothing more. I swing before your eyes as a bright gleam of color, a symbol of yourself."
Inspired by these three decades of state and local celebrations, Flag Day - the anniversary of the Flag Resolution of 1777 - was officially established by the Proclamation of President Woodrow Wilson on May 30th, 1916. While Flag Day was celebrated in various communities for years after Wilson's proclamation, it was not until August 3rd, 1949, that President Truman signed an Act of Congress designating June 14th of each year as National Flag Day.

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On another note, I will be away from blogland for the next 2 1/2 weeks. My Parents are retiring and moving to NC! Yeah! I will be traveling north to help finalize the packing and moving, then driving with my Parents back to NC. I will miss you while I'm away but hope to have some great pictures and stories to share when I return. Be sure to drop by on July 1st for my special Independence Day countdown and a FABULOUS, INCREDIBLE, UNBELIEVABLE GIVE-A-WAY! Until I see you again,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

Tablescape Thursday - Sweet Southern Magnolia

2009-06-10T21:08:00.003-04:00

Welcome to another TABLESCAPE THURSDAY! A big thanks to Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for hosting this lovely party each week. Be sure to visit for more tablescape inspiration. This week my table is SWEET SOUTHERN MAGNOLIA inspired by my front yard magnolia tree which is in full bloom! The air around the front of the house smells so sweet and delicious. I just had to bring that indoors. Playing off of the creamy white blossoms, I am using a soft white and creamy yellow color scheme. Let's take a closer look:I started with the centerpiece - Mr. Panache clipped several magnolia blooms and leaves from our tree. I used two matching Milk Glass vases from my Grandmother's collection to hold the blooms then I tucked stems of leaves around the base. I completed the look with crystal and golden candleholders in a baroque pattern and elegan ivory soy candles from my Celebrating HOME decor line.
Since I sat the breakfast table, I have few table cloths that will fit this square (seats 8) table, so I bunched up a smaller round cloth and layered a hand crocheted table runner on top. The table runner was a gift from my dear Mother-in-Law who makes me the most wonderful items! For a soft accent color I chose creamy yellow in the linen placemats. The china is Bernadotte Ivory edged in gold by Formalities, Irish cut crystal rimmed in 24k gold, flatware is gold plate.

To add a little more panache to the centerpiece I used three gold orbs and tucked them among the magnolia leaves. I adore white, cream, off-white and soft yellow as a summer-time color palette. It seems so refreshing yet warm and inviting.

I use Soy Candles from Celebrating HOME exclusively. These ivory candles are scented like Creme Brulee! Yummy! The perfect, soft scent for the dinning room or kitchen. For more varieties and colors click here.

Isn't this bloom perfect? So white and perfectly formed. There's just something so elegant about the creamy blossoms of a Southern Magnolia with its shiny, green leaves that this Southern Girl can't resist! I hope you've enjoyed the tour. Don't forget to visit Susan and all the gals featuring lovely tables this week. Until I see you again,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

Summer and Simple Pleasures

2009-06-08T14:21:00.003-04:00

Happy Monday! Can you believe it's JUNE already? School is out and the kids are so ready to start their summer fun. Our summer is jammed packed full already and I'm beginning to wonder if there will be any time to just relax. When I was a kid it seems that the summer days were endless. Now - time just passes so fast I'm afraid to blink. Last week, however, I took some time to just enjoy my home and garden. I have a flower bed on the east side of my house that is in full bloom with Calla Lillies. At least I think that's what these are. When I bought the house, the previous owner was an avid gardener and he planted these bulbs. Imagine my delight when they started peeping through the soil the first Spring I lived in the house. I'm really excited this year because the blooms are so abundant. I clipped a dozen for a cut flower arrangement and added some greenery from a holly bush to fill it out. The berries from the holly bush are green but I love the look of the pink and green together.
I had some pink plaid ribbon on hand and tied a simple bow around the opening of the vase.

These blooms are still healthy and vibrant and it's been a week since I clipped them. I love the color and shape of these flowers. So elegant.

I placed them on a table in my entry hall. There they wait to welcome me home from my busy and hectic schedule. Mr. Panache clipped another dozen for me yesterday and I probably have 2 or 3 dozen more in full bloom.

The best part is these lovely flowers were FREE! Sometimes it's nice to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasure of your own yard and the beauty God has so freely created in our world. Until I see you again,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

TABLESCAPE THURSDAY - True Blue

2009-06-03T16:38:00.007-04:00

I have to tell you that this week's table has been fun! The inspiration started when I was at my local grocery store - Harris Teeter - and saw that Le Bleu water was on sale! I just loved the bright, rich blue of the bottles and the scroll-like script used for the brand. After drinking the water I saved three of the bottles planning to use them outside on the deck to hold fresh cut flowers the next time we dined out. The bottles are shatterproof so they make a great alternative to glass vases. After looking through the cabinets for dishes and crystal, I spied the Le Bleu bottles sitting on my counter! BINGO! This week's table would take its queue from the bottles - a classic pairing of yellow, white and blue was the natural thing to do! I set the breakfast room table using a yellow, hem-stitched linen placemat and layered a round, straw placemat in Aegean blue on top. I just love to layer placemats. I didn't use any chargers but laid down my Blue Churchill plates and topped them off with my favorite IVORY salad plates. I sat a small white hobnail vase holding bright yellow daisies in the center of the salad plate for added punch. I only have one of these little vases but would LOVE to have 8 or 10! They are the perfect size for holding individual sized bouquets.
To form the centerpiece I used an oriental wooden tray and filled it with three Le Bleu bottles filled with white hydrangea and three white milk glass vases filled with "sunshine-y" yellow daisies. I filled in around the vases with the infamous birdie salt and pepper shakers and the votive candle holders.
Remember these? I think it's time for Susan to host another "Target Birdies go on holiday!" party. We'll have to let her know!
These fluffy white hydrandeas came from my local market. They were the manager's special this week - only $1.99!

To get a better shot of the Blue Churchill plates, I propped it up on a plateholder. I've had these plates for 20 years or better. I have cups and saucers to match but can not find where I've stored them. I still have boxes of dishes I haven't unpacked from 3 years ago! Yikes!

By now you are well acquainted with my IVORY dishes from Better Homes & Gardens. I use these dishes more than any others. They are so pretty. I love the embossing. They can be dressed up on an elegant, formal table or dressed down with a gingham checked tablecloth on the back deck!

The sparkle of crystal goblets will add panache to any table.

This is the third week I've used the Bamboo flatware. I am finding myself reaching for it over and over. I love the texture it adds to the table.

I found these napkins at HomeGoods a few months ago. I purchased a package of 4 for $2. You can't beat that! I looked for more packages but to no avail. They are hand blocked and painted. I can see myself using these in a new beach table - stay tuned for that! These little white wrought-iron birdie napkin rings are my favorites. I use them on my table almost continuously during the Spring and Summer months.

Yellow, White and Blue - next to Red, White and Blue it's the perfect summer time trio of colors - a true American tradition. I hope you've enjoyed looking around today. For tons more inspiration and FABULOUS tables of all types, sizes and styles, visit Susan at:

Between Naps on the Porch!

Until I see you again,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

The Cook's Corner - Blueberry Chicken Salad

2009-06-02T18:34:00.002-04:00

Welcome to the Cook's Corner!

It's been a while since I've shared a recipe with you so today I will share a brand new recipe from my cooking club. During the hot, lazy days of summer I like to eat cool, crisp salads. I can salad everyday! The key to not getting bored with "rabbit food" as my husband calls it, is to mix it up and try different variations. There's an old saying about eating a "rainbow" in your diet. The more colorful your fruits and veggies are the more nutrients, expecially antioxidents, that you are consuming. Of course with all the health awareness about antioxidents we all need to get more of this healthy, disease fighting nutrient.

Today's recipe is BLUEBERRY CHICKEN SALAD.

Let's take a look: This recipe can punch up the creamy goodness of the ordinary chicken salad by adding a sweet-tart burst from fresh blueberries. Here's what you will need -

Blueberry Chicken Salad

1/2 cup light mayo - I use Hellman's.

3 tablespoons light sour cream - I use Breakstone's

1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger

1 tablespoon lemon juice - squeezed fresh

2 teaspoons grated lemon peel

1/4 teaspoon salt

3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (or you could use boneless, skinless chicken breasts grilled)

1/2 cup sliced water chestnuts (love the crunchiness they add!)

1/2 cup sliced green onions

1/2 cup diced celery

2 cups blueberries (rinsed and dried very well)

4 cups of torn tender salad greens (I like to use Bibb or Butter Leaf)

1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted

Directions:

Combine the first six (6) ingredients in a large bowl. This forms your dressing.

Stir in chicken, water chestnuts, green onions and celery.

Gently fold in blueberries (make sure you have dried your berries very well, otherwise they will water-down your dressing mix and make it runny)

Serve over salad greens. Top with toasted almonds.

This salad is so yummy! Rich in protein, low in carbs! Cool and crisp - the perfect summer salad. I hope you enjoy it! Until I see you again,

Happy Cooking!

~Alisa

Monday Moments

2009-06-01T18:34:00.005-04:00

Mondays have become crazy days for me lately! It just seems that the first day of the work week is just packed with "To Do's". Every now and then I have to remind myself to just slow down and breathe. It's nice when something unexpected happens like these lovely ORANGE Roses I found at the market for $4.00. ORANGE is one of my favorite colors. I am using it in my sunroom with soft green and yellow - a very citrus inspired room. I am using it in my family room with turquoise - inspired by my BFF, Bella~Mella.

Many studies have been done on the power of color. A study from the University of Georgia found an astounding 94% of people who viewed ORANGE felt happier in seconds! Warm colors like orange, yellow, mango, peach and coral convey friendliness and warmth, making everyone who sees them happier. Research has proven that the brain's "happiness centers" are actually activated by exposure to warm, bright colors.

So, if you need a moment of happiness in your Manic Monday, try a liberal dose of ORANGE.

Hope your day is filled with happiness and sunshine! Until I see you again,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

Relaxed Summer Style

2009-05-30T07:25:00.004-04:00

Summer! Lazy days of summer!

Something about summer makes all of us long for a slower pace, more casual surroundings and bright, crip colors. This week I will be adding relaxed summer style to some spaces in my home. I'm going to start with my sunroom and deck. These two areas will get a lot of use over the next few months especially with the kids home from school. Pulling a little inspiration from Pottery Barn, I think I will be off "shopping" the house and the garage later today to see what I come up with. Red, white and blue is a classic color scheme but for my house these colors won't work. So, I am going to modify them to a color pallette of orange, cream and turquoise. All of these colors are just various hues of the primary basics. Let's look at some pictures from my idea file. While these aren't the colors I will use, the look and style is what I'm going for.I'm going for a similar look with the mix-n-match pillows in my sunroom. I love the stripes, floral and geometric prints combined. Shopping the house for the right mix will be fun and challenging! I love the pop of sunny yellow thrown in the mix.

I have several pieces of older wicker. The plan is to paint it chocolate brown. My BFF, Bella~Mella, recently painted a wicker piece an espresso brown at my suggestion. After seeing pictures, I loved it so much that I think I'll take my own advice and paint my pieces. In the picture above I love the mix of wicker with metal folding chairs. The mix of pattern again caught my eye. I think mixing up patterns has a natural casual appeal perfect for the hot, sticky days of summer.

The bright navy blue of this umbrella is what drew my eye in this photo. I guess it's my association of blue with water that makes me lean towards shades of blue during the warm weather months. I have three umbrellas in the garage. A leopard print, a terracotta floral print and a solid golden yellow. Depending on what I pull together from my "shopping" trip, will determine which one is featured in the months to come.

I would LOVE to have an outdoor sectional like this! The whole set is just perfect for entertaining outdoors. Cushions so thick you can just sink down and daydream the day away.

Oh, to have a functional outdoor kitchen! We would eat every meal outside! This kitchen is covered by a porch. Whenever I get around to designing an outdoor kitchen, it will need to be weather proof since we have an uncovered deck.

At the end of a long day, to lay and relax on this summery chaise lounge would be perfect. Especially if your back yard bordered a lake or the coast.

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Well, I better get going if I'm going to get a start on that deck today....

Until I see you again,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

TABLESCAPE THURSDAY - French Country Flair

2009-05-27T16:25:00.004-04:00

Hey, it's TABLESCAPE THURSDAY again! Don't you just love this weekly get-together? I do! Thanks to Susan at Between Naps On The Porch. To see more lovely and inspired tables pop over for a visit. This week I'm showing a little French Country Flair. I brought out some Roosters, Toile and Red, Black and Cream! They are the perfect elements for this French Country breakfast table. Cream placemats, Toile napkins, Ivory plates and Toile bread or fruit plates from Williams Sonoma set the table with French flair. Clear and Ruby crystal goblets and juice glasses add the sparkle. Flatware with Bamboo handles completes my placesettings.

Love this distressed white Rooster. I've had him for many years. Usually he sits on my counter but for today he's made his way to my breakfast table.

This spotted Rooster was a gift from my SIL, Teresa. Thanks, T!

Red, Black and Cream are so FRENCH to me. Red roses were the obvious choice for my centerpiece.

These bamboo handles are rugged yet refined. I've used them with my best china and I've used them with paper plates! These Toile napkins also came from Williams Sonoma. They are luncheon size but they work just fine for breakfast.

My clear juice glasses came from Dollar Tree. I've had the Ruby Crystal Goblet for several years. I have 8 in all and usually they only make their way out of the cabinet at Valentine's Day and Christmas. But I liked the way they added glamour to this table.

This salad / bread / dessert Toile patterned plate came from Williams Sonoma. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the pattern and colors! See the little Rooster?

I think I will serve Eggs Benedict, Crisp Bacon and warm, flaky Croissants with fresh squeezed Orange Juice and fresh Melon. Hmmm!

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I hope you've enjoyed this week's French Country Flair. Until I see you again,

Happy Table Setting!

~Alisa

Patriotic Decor & Happy Memorial Day!

2009-05-25T16:02:00.005-04:00

Happy Memorial Day! I hope you are having a wonderful day with family and friends and have taken some time to remember the fallen soldiers who have given their lives to ensure our freedom! I am so thankful for their sacrifice! There's just something about Summer and Red, White and Blue! It just goes together like peanut butter and jelly or ketchup and fries. I find myself automatically reaching for clothes in my closet in these shades from May through July 4th! Adding a little patriotic flair to our decor during this season seems pretty natural too! From the weeks leading up to Memorial Day to the fireworks finale on the Fourth, we Americans just seem to gravitate to the classic of all classic colors schemes - Red, White and Blue! Here's a little home tour to give you some inspiration for adding American Spirit to your summer holidays!Ever since I was a little kid, I've loved patriotic buntings! They look so festive and regal! Paired with Old Glory, the front of the house is all decked out and can stay that way through Flag Day in June to Independence Day in July!
Love this family room! The white slipcovered sofa is just the right backdrop for displaying these Flag pillows. Wanna know a secret? The reverse side of the pillows are a floral print that the homeowner simply turns around when the summer holidays are over.

A light filled dining room painted white is the perfect setting to showcase this red, white and blue tablescape. I love the fresh blue and white ginham check napkins and the punch of red Gladiolas.

Glorious color, beautiful frabic and crip white wicker makes this sun room by the sea the ideal place to lounge during the hot days of summer. The only place more perfect would be by the sea shore itself. I love the use of blue and white stripes paired with the red rose chintz.

Kick back and relax with your family and friends at the end of the afternoon on this All-American screened porch. A collection of mismatched furniture gets a "pulled-together" look with lots of blue and red paint and fabric. You just can't go wrong! Various shades of blue paired with red, tan and white lends a preppy panache to a family friendly space that can be enjoyed all summer long!

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I hope you enjoy the rest of your holiday! Be safe! Until I see you again,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

TABLESCAPE THURSDAY - Setting Pretty!

2009-05-20T20:49:00.003-04:00

Welcome to TABLESCAPE THURSDAY!

This week I thought I would share some summer inspiration for outdoor tables and centerpieces. Using ordinary items in extraordinary ways is the best part of setting the table. During the warmer months of Spring and Summer, I opt for casual over formal any day but that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice on style, creativity or beauty.

I love the way the lemons are balanced on top of the candle holders in the picture below.

Simple but lovely.A silver ice bucket becomes the perfect container to hold fresh blooms cut from the garden.
A silver teapot is the perfect accent to Mexican Heather.

A double stack takes on new meaning. A silver cake plate topped with a silver bowl makes a pretty display for silverware.

Used and repurposed, soda bottles clustered with happy Sunflower blooms make a fun and casual centerpiece.

I have to thank Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for hosting this fun little party every week! For more table top creations, please pop over to vist her.

Until I see you again,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

Defining Your Style

2009-05-18T19:27:00.003-04:00

Are you like me?

Torn between two styles, feeling like a fool? Having worked in design for several years, I am always on the look-out for new styles, trends and classics. I have decided that I simply appreciate good design regardless of the style. Staying true to my personal style, however, is critical to making my home a haven. Discovering your personal style can be a little tricky but once you've decided to be true to yourself, the process gets a lot easier.

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Discovering your design starts with defining what you love and why you love it. Once you have that established, mixing and matching other styles can add whimsy and relief to your decor.

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I teach 5 basic design styles - Classic, Country or Cottage, Contemporary, Chic and Cultural. To read more about these styles visit LifeandStylebyDesign.

Over the years I've learned that when a client is unhappy with their surroundings, it's usually because their personal style was not defined. Upon visiting in their home, it becomes clear that with a little editing, a personal style begins to emerge that feels like "home". I share the following BIG 3 with all of my clients. These are rules to live (and decorate) by:

If you don't LOVE it, don't buy it!
If you can't see yourself using the piece 3, 5 or 10 years from now, don't bring it home.
Stay true to yourself. No two people are the same and no two interiors should be the same. Use other's style as inspiration and for ideas, but create spaces in your home that tell YOUR story.

I guess I'm rather like Dorothy -" There's no place like home". I love to travel and to visit wonderful places but at the end of the day, I'd rather be home than anywhere on earth. Until I see you again,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

Tablescape Thursday - Sweet and Simple

2009-05-14T06:49:00.005-04:00

WELCOME to Tablescape Thursday!

Thursday's are one of my favorite days! I love looking at all the creative ways that we design tables for all types of entertaining. Tablescaping and beautiful dishes are two of my passions. Recently, I've been seeing alot of paper and plastic plates and dishes designed for pretty but casual entertaining. Sometimes it's good to have the convenience of paper - when your event is through, clean up is SO easy! I'm having a few girls over for lunch and wanted a pretty table but I didn't want to spend an hour afterwards doing dishes! This week's table is "Sweet and Simple" and it features paper plates and napkins I found at Pier 1 while shopping with my BFF before Easter. Let's take a look: The white lace tablecloth is actually made from a soft, drape-y plastic. I found this at a yard sale for $1. I used my Tiffany blue placemats and the metal flower chargers that I picked up at Target after Easter. They were on clearance. I love the wrought-iron and distressed look.
The paper plates are so sweet. The dessert/salad plate is rimmed with a Tiffany blue border and there is a little bird's nest in the center with Robin's Egg blue eggs. I am using my Bamboo flatware today.

A simple pot of silk tulips was just the right scale for my "scaled-down" table. I had Mr. Panache collapse the extra leaf. The table is a unique design and instead of removing an extra leaf, you just collapse it underneath the table. When I have a larger group, the table expands to seat 8.

In keeping with the Bird theme, I found these two iron bird statues that I used last year on my outdoor table. They are a little weathered but they work perfectly with the chargers.

The paper luncheon plate features a damask border designed in Tiffany blue with a chocolate brown ring around the inner circle. A single bird - is that a Wren?- is printed on the plate.

Here is a better look at the dessert / salad plate. The border is speckled just like a bird's egg.

Remember my Dollar Tree goblets? These are by Libbey and each one was $1. You can't beat that!

The Bamboo flatware is perfect for Spring or Summer tablescapes. I picked up a service set for 4 at HomeGoods then a few weeks later, I found the same set at Ross and they were $5 cheaper! Yeah, I brought them home. Now I have the perfect 8.

Having a pretty table can be simple, inexpensive and easy. Keeping your eyes open to great colors, shapes and materials will give you plenty of inspiration. The other day I was at TJMaxx and they had an entire shelf filled with colorful and patterned paper napkins, paper plates and accessories. Most of the packages were $1.69 each. I picked up several packages in different colors and patterns. One is a cream and black toile with a red border. I can't wait to use them in an upcoming 'scape. Don't forget to go over to see Susan at Between Naps on the Porch and visit each Tablescaper for inspiration! Until I see you again,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

Simply Chic Bedding Update

2009-05-12T14:14:00.003-04:00

Okay, I was surfing the net for a quick bedding update. A friend of mine has a daughter who just turned 16 and she wants to "update" her daughter's room to reflect the young woman rather than the little girl who daughter used to be. She asked me for some "inexpensive" ideas because money is tight. Obviously the first thing I suggested is PAINT. I love paint! Paint is our friend! You can paint almost everything. Paint can add panache, personality and pizzazz! The next suggestion was bedding! New linens can get expensive so I was looking for some crafty ideas on how to rework some of the current bedding when I discovered this clever idea. I just love it! Notice the bedskirt? It's made out of TOWELS. Yes, that's right! Hand towels and bath towels. My friend's home is a little cottage and she and her daughter live there alone. They really like fleamarket finds, ShabbyChic decor and most things white. This quick and easy bedskirt fit perfectly with their decor and the best part - NO SEWING!

All that was needed was:

4 - Bath Towels (any color or pattern you choose)

6- Hand Towels (I suggest matching versions of your bath towels)

2 yards of 2-inch wide ball fringe

Fabric Glue

Bedskirt Tacks

Directions:

Place 2 Bath towels on top of the box spring. Allow to hand over the edge to desired length. Center the bath towels in the middle with approximately a 4" to 6" separation between the two. Next, take the Hand Towels, embellish one end with the ball fringe using fabric glue. Allow to dry. Place the embellished Hand Towels on top of the Bath Towels overlapping the edges. Adjust the towel to the desired length. Repeat these steps for the other side.

If your bed is centered the room and you want to over the end, simply use 1 extra Bath Towel and 2 extra Hand Towels. If the bed sits against a wall then dress the side and end only. Use bedskirt tacks to hold the towels in place, then place your mattress on top.

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All that's needed next is a few coordinated toss pillows and an inexpensive blanket or coverlet. We picked ours up at TJMAXX. We actually used two blankets in contrasting colors and standard white sheets. The bedskirt and the pillows add all the drama. The bedskirt project took less than 40 minutes. When you get tired of the color or pattern, remove the fringe, wash the towels, then send them back to the bathroom for standard duty.

Have fun with this little project. It's so simply and cute.

Until I see you again,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

Today is all About Precious Moms and Sweet Boys

2009-05-09T21:30:00.005-04:00

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

I hope that each of you MOMS are taking it easy and being spoiled just a bit by the loved ones in your life.

Just wanted to post a quick entry in honor of MOM. Enjoy a quick peek at my Mother's Day goodies and pause to read a little poem at the end. I hope you all have a wonderful and blessed day!

Bright green, hot pink and white - the perfect color trio for a Mother's Day bouquet!

Spider Mums, Daisies, Roses and Carnations

A basket of goodies - a little Black Book of Style, seed packets of my favorite blooms, scented candles and chocolates.

A real-life acronym for M.O.T.H.E.R.

To Honor the two very special Mothers in our life, Mr. Panache and I

dedicate this poem to our Mothers.

Virgina Lucas and Ann Brown

As I Look Back...

As I look back on my lifeI find myself wondering...

Did I remember to thank you for all that you have done for me?

For all of the times you were by my side to help me celebrate

my successes and accept my defeats?

Or for teaching me the value of hard work, good judgement, courage, and honesty?

I wonder if I've ever thanked you for the simple things...

The laughter, smiles, and quiet times we've shared?

If I have forgotten to express my gratitude

For any of these things, I am thanking you now...

and I am hoping that you've known all along,

how very much you are loved and appreciated.

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With much love,

XOXOXOXO

Happy Mother's Day!

Foodie Friday - Strawberry Dream Cake with French Vanilla Whipped Frosting

2009-05-07T19:43:00.011-04:00

Welcome to my very first FOODIE FRIDAY!

This week's theme is CAKE so in honor of Mother's Day I wanted to share a lovely Strawberry Cake recipe from my M-I-L, Ann. I've modified the topping a little by adding some "fluff". I love strawberries and during the season I can eat them almost non-stop. This recipe features fresh picked berries and strawberry puree and syrup.

STRAWBERRY CAKE:

1 package yellow cake mix
2/3 cup water

1/3 cup oil

4 eggs

1 package strawberry jello (3-0z.)

1 cup fresh strawberries

Combine cake mix, water, oil, jello and strawberries. Blend well. Pour into prepared 9x13" cake pan. Bake for 45 minutes at 350 degrees.

For the French Vanilla Whipped Frosting I used:

2 cups French Vanilla flavored Cool-Whip

1 package instant Vanilla pudding

1 cup cold milk

1 cup strawberries

1/2 cup strawberry flavored syrup (the type used for ice cream)

Combine the pudding mix with 1 cup cold milk. Beat until thickened. Fold in Cool-Whip. Mix well.

Puree fresh strawberries with 1/2 cup strawberry syrup. Spread mixture on top of cooled cake. Then spread French Vanilla Frosting on top.

Garnish with fresh sliced strawberries. Chill in refrigerator until ready to serve.

Store any leftovers (most likely you won't have any) in the refrigerator to prevent the frosting from melting.

For a creme-style cake take 2/3 box confectioner's sugar, a little juice from the strawberries, just enough juice to make a glaze. Mix well. Pour over the top of cake and let it drip down the sides. Yummy!

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This recipe is sure to please Mom and what could be prettier than a Pink cake for Mother's Day?

I hope all of you MOMS have a wonderful and restful day! Blessings!

Until I see you again,

Happy Cooking!

~Alisa

TABLESCAPE THURSDAY - An English Garden for Mother

2009-05-06T20:43:00.005-04:00

Welcome to TABLESCAPE THURSDAY!

This week I've pulled together a table to honor MOM. I'm calling it "An English Garden for Mother". I was looking through my dishes, linens and crystal trying to come up with a new combination that I haven't shared before. While I was pondering this week's table, my eyes fell on a new picture that I've just acquired. I was admiring the coral, peach and orange tones in the background and suddenly I knew what I would do. Let's take a look at my inspiration picture and go tour this table I've set especially for Mother's Day. This picture is called "Magnolia Estate" and it's from my Celebrating HOME line of interior accents and home furnishings. The creamy white flowers against the coral and peach toned background were my inspiration this week.
My Mom loves an English Garden. Tea Roses and Peonies are her two favorite blooms. This table features creamy white peonies in the centerpiece and lovely Tea Roses on the floral napkins. I had a lot of fun pulling this table together and with each layer I got more excited to see the finished product. The explosion of color across our dining room table even pulled a few compliments from Mr. Panache and our boys. Wow!

Earlier this year my Mom came to visit over a long weekend and as we girls do we took off to shop. I found these Ralph Lauren napkins at BELKS. The background is a soft Robin's Egg Blue and the floral print features roses in shades of coral, peach, pink and rose.

I started with a creamy white quilted placemat. I tend to use placemats more than tablecloths during the warmer months. Next, I added my woven wicker chargers. I have had these for several years and love the texture they add to any table. I love the way they add a sense of casual elegance to an otherwise formal table. I then layered three different stoneware patterns in three different colors - Ivory dinner plate, Robin's Egg Blue salad plate, Coral dessert plate - a slight nod to the classic of RED, WHITE and BLUE but with a modern mix.

Elegant Ivory Soy candles cast just a hint of glow around the table.

I had 3 yards of Peach silk fabric left over from a project for a client. I simply placed it in the center of my table and turned the unfinished edges under. Viola! A tablerunner. The ivory platter featured here is part of a new pottery line from Celebrating HOME. It is called VERANDA. The pattern is a basket-weave embossing with an English Ivy motif layered on top. Now I have to decide was yummy entree I will place on this lovely platter for a Mother's Day lunch.

A matching covered casserole.

This is what we call a BEAN POT. It is oval shaped with a deep well and narrow opening. Perfect for serving baked beans, pasta salads, soups, stews or chowders.

A couple fine feathered friends find their way to the table.

I tried several ways of displaying my napkins. I liked this triangle fold laid across the dessert plate. But, I was afraid it covered to much of the plate.

Each one of the different stoneware patterns are embossed. I purchased these coral dessert plates at TARGET about 6 years ago. They were on the clearance table - 4 for $5! What a bargain!

When my eyes fell on these salad plates it was love at first sight. The soft Robin's Egg Blue was unlike any dishes I had in my cabinet and I knew they would match my napkins perfectly. I found them at TJMaxx about a month ago. You will see these in many more tablescapes I'm sure! (Smile!)

And again! My tried and true IVORY dinner plates from BHandGardens.

I settled on displaying the napkin inside the crystal goblet. I liked the way the fabric fanned out and added some height to the table. The smaller crystal goblet is actually a sorbet cup. I wasn't sure about the proper placement so it ended up to the right of the glass. If you happen to know the correct spot for it, please share. :-)

I am reading a wonderful book called "Creative Hospitality" by Nancy Van Pelt. The book is on loan from my dear friend Peggy Morris. One quote from the author that I will share is this:

'To know how to create a beautiful table setting and pull it all together in an

inviting manner is a talent from God".
I never really thought about it that way but after participating in Susan's Tablescape Party and viewing all the gorgeous tables that everyone posts week after week, I have decided that I agree with Mrs. Van Pelt! So for more inspiration and to visit some very talented ladies, pop over to see Susan at Between Naps on the Porch! Until I see you again,

Happy Table Setting!

~Alisa

Kitchen Island - Part 2

2009-05-06T10:15:00.004-04:00

Well, a couple of weeks have passed since Mr. Panache and I decided to give our Kitchen Island a mini-makeover. During this time I've researched products and design styles and have put together our budget for completing this project. Basically, the island is going to get wrapped in bead board, painted black and slightly distressed. As I've visited kitchen design centers, flipped through catalogs and surfed websites for inspiration, a plethora of fabulous ideas have surfaced. I am falling in love with the idea of adding black crown molding and light rail to my maple cabinets to bring some unity to the overall design. The pictures that follow are some that I am using to draw inspiration. Adore this kitchen! I love, love, love the blue glazed cabinets mixed with the honeyed wood stain of the other cabinets.
Wow! This designer was bold! Three different finishes - oak, vanilla bean glaze and charcoal gray paint! But is looks fabulous and inviting. I could definiately cook here!

This photo features only one finish but what attracts me to this kitchen is the details used to elevate these cabinets from functional to fine furniture.

Here a classic trio of color is used to add panache to a yellow, blue and white kitchen. This sunny kitchen could wake me to breakfast everyday!

Now this is my dream! Not just one island but two! I love how the pair has been glazed with a dark indigo stain.

This all white kitchen gets a turbo boost of energy by a cobolt blue island. To me there's just something exciting about a room when you mix finishes, colors and pattern. This is where true design comes alive for me. To artfully combine a collection of thoughtfully paired elements keeps the eye moving and interested. Never bored!

I was in my local Lowes Home Improvement store last week and found this black island. I couldn't believe it! covered in bead board, painted black and slightly distressed. Sounds like just the inspiration I was looking for. Now I'm considering having Mr. Panache add another cabinet at the end of my island to create more storage for my growing addiction to dishes.

The paint is a soft, eggshell finish with a slight distressing around the edges and raised panels. This inspiration piece features brushed nickle hardware which is what I currently have and will reuse.

You can see the beadboard on the end of this side and the furniture details such as the base board and the wooden spindle that looks like a finely turned leg of a console table.

This island featured three levels. I like that. It adds interest and movement.

Here you can see all three levels.

I don't plan to add a lower level to my island like pictured here but I would like to add decorative brackets under the portion of my counter that is used as a breakfast bar.

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It's important when making home improvements to invest in areas that will get you the biggest return when you are ready to sell. Homeowners sometimes make the mistake of spending on trends that will soon date their home. I wanted to make sure that my Kitchen Island project, as small as it is, was going to add to the value of my home and not take away. I was really excited to discover that kitchen updates produce the biggest return on investment!

Here are the Top 10 Budget Friendly Kitchen Updates:

1. Make over your kitchen with paint. You can paint the walls, paint the cabinets and some have even ventured to paint the counters and floors!

2. Reface your cabinet doors. Don't have the budget for new cabinets? Change the doors only. Refacing is super affordable compared to new cabinets.

3. Update countertops. I know the rage is granite but if it's not in your budget there are still alternatives that can resemble granite or give you a richer finish at a much more reasonable cost.

4. Replace cabinet hardware. When I moved in to my home the cabinets had round, brass knobs. They weren't my style and so I replaced them with brushed nickle cup pulls and egg-shaped knobs. I was amazed at this simple transformation. The brass knobs made my cabinets look cheap and out of style. The brushed nickle instantly raised the value by giving the cabinets a new, modern vibe.

5. Replace cabinets with open shelves.

6. Add new window treatments. You can make these yourself even if you don't know how to sew. Check out the Nester's Window Mistreatments for loads of inspiration.

7. Kitchen flooring - this one simple change can give your entire a kitchen and home a new vitality.

8. Creative backsplash. There are so many options for backsplashes. Tile, pressed tin, stone - the list goes on.

9. Unconventional Kitchen Island - this one's for me! Make your island (if you are lucky enough to have one) the focal point of your room.

10. Last but by no means least, get organized. Sometimes all our kitchens need is to be decluttered so we can appreciate the beautiful finishes that we may already have hiding beneath the stuff of life. It's amazing how we fall in love with things we haven't seen for a while!

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I hope to have my island re-made in a few more weeks. Stay tuned for the reaveal. Until I see you again,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

Sunday Favorites

2009-05-03T13:41:00.006-04:00

Welcome to another post of SUNDAY FAVORITES. I actually posted this two weeks ago but I posted late in the day and the next day I posted early. So in case you didn't get a chance to read through the ins and outs of hosting an outdoor Garden Party, I hope you will gain something new and useful today. Don't forget to visit Chari at Happy To Design and all the other participants this week.

I love SPRING - here in North Carolina it's not too hot nor too cold! Just like Goldilocks said - it's just right - for hosting an outdoor event, that is. Yesterday, I surveyed my back yard and deck. Yuck! Winter has taken it's toll! Time to get out the pressure washer, the weedeater and plant some color in those empty containers! Well that's gonna take a while with all the other things piling up on my "To Do" list. Searching for some inspiration and letting my fingers do the walking - or surfing - I found a few pics to get my creative energy flowing. In order to host that Mother's Day luncheon in a few weeks, I thought I would share some ideas for hosting your own garden party - Ready? Set. GO! First thing - READY the Garden.

About 5 to 7 days before you plan to host your event is the perfect time to catch up on your yard work. Cut your grass at least two days before your party. In case any of your guests have seasonal allergies, this will give the pollen and dust time to settle. Mr. Panache always uses a bagging device on the mower. This way we don't track around grass clippings. In case your planters look like mine and haven't had time to bloom and fill out, try this little trick. Clip some greenery or stems from shrubs or flowering trees. Fill them in around your plants. The key to a lush look is fullness and color. No one will ever know and by the time the clippings start to wilt, the party is over.
Next, SET the Boundaries.
This means you need to decide the layout of your outdoor space. If you are hosting something duirng the middle of the day, try to arrange your table under some shade. Also have some seating tucked under an umbrella, porch, canopy or shade trees. This will be appreciated by any guests who are not sun lovers. I like to have multiple areas for food, drinks, desserts, etc. This way traffic flows just a little better and lines are always shorter.

Thirdly, SET the Mood.
There's just something magical about entering a lush, outdoor paradise. AND you don't have to have the backyard of the Rich and Famous! You can set a romantic mood by hanging sheets, shower curtains or unused sheer panels from fishing line tied in tree branches or on clothes lines. Tie them to the beams of a pergola or from bamboo stakes. You can also hang pretty quilts or throws over the railing of your deck. Draping colorful or sheer fabric around your space adds softness to your outdoor room. For a festive mood, use colorful paper lanterns or tie oodles of helium balloons on to weights and use them to define your party space. I use this idea for my kid's parties.

Lastly, SET the Table.

My BFF, Melanie, reminded me last week that "we eat with our eyes first". How true! And doesn't everything taste better when it looks good too! So make sure your table is as pretty as your food is tasty. For a more sophisticated affair, drape a pretty tablecloth over your table. Another great idea is to drape the backs of your chairs with pretty pillowcases. Yes, that's right - pillowcases. This will unify your chairbacks and add elegance to your garden party. I have an old, round dining table that I use and mismatched chairs. They are all pretty rough looking but magic happens when they get all dressed up in layers of pretty fabric. I love to mix and layer patterns - stripes, florals, polkadots and plaids - for fun and whimsical style.

For more casual entertaining, keep your table decorations simple and natural. I've been known to use garden boots to hold pretty, colorful annuals. Once the party is over, the annuals get planted in the garden. Another thing I like to do is mix daisies with fresh herbs - fresh Basil, Pineapple Mint, Chocolate Mint, Chives, Rosemary - not only do you get a pretty centerpiece but you have the delicious fragrant aroma filling the air.

Now, GO and enjoy yourself!

Turn on your favorite tunes, pour yourself an icy lemonade or tea and sit back, enjoy your friends and your beautiful outdoor space!

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Yesterday I took a trip to my local LOWES Home Improvement store. Guess what I found? A kitchen island all decked out in beadboard and black paint! It had been distressed for an aged look but offered me tons of inspiration for my Kitchen Island makeover. Check back tomorrow evening for a peek at my inspiration. Until then,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

Tablescape Thursday - "Just Beachy"

2009-04-29T21:56:00.004-04:00

Okay, so I've been on this shell and beach theme lately. It must be that Spring Break trip to Florida a couple of weeks ago. Today has been very busy - hardly a minute to take a break. So I am cheating a little bit and posting one of my favorite tables from a few months ago. I hope you will enjoy it (again! :-)

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Ahoy, mates! Welcome to Tablescape Thursday hosted by Susan at Between Naps on the Porch! Today I am taking a short break from spring decorating to set an ocean inspired table. Friday is Mr. Panache's birthday and we are having a seafood feast! So in keeping with my menu I've gone a little coastal with this week's table.

Of course we couldn't have an ocean inspired table without lovely shades of blue. I am using four varying shades of Mr. Panache's favorite color. I have used two placemats layered one on top of the other. They are aqua and royal blue. The napkin is a medium blue-teal and the decorative glass candle plates are translucent turquoise.

I filled a hurricane with glass beads of clear, teal and aqua to help tie in the color scheme.

Invited some little sea creatures over to decorate my table. A cluster of Starfish and shells picked up on Clearwater Beach during the years I lived there were the perfect accents to my Ocean Breeze table.

A lovely bronze Starfish securely holds my napkins in place.

I found these blue and white clam shell coasters at Target. They add a touch of whimsy.

A silver plated shell-shaped serving dish holds more aqua glass beads and a Starfish.

I just got these two large metal lanterns from my Celebrating Home interior accents line. I love them. They are so sturdy and versatile.

I love the way Vanilla Creme candles glow and flicker. The little candle plates were a find at Everything's A Dollar store.

I picked up three styles. I like this one. It looks like a flower or if you use your imagination, a Starfish.

You may remember my Shell salad plates from my Florida Sunset post a few weeks ago. This picture also gives you a better look at the layered placemats.

This candle plate is shaped like a daisy. My Eternity silverware add shine and sparkle in the candlelight. I hope you've enjoyed the Ocean Breeze. Until I see you again,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

Outdoor Wednesday - Gone Shellin'

2009-04-29T06:58:00.006-04:00

Happy Hump Day! It's Outdoor Wednesday and this fun party is hosted by Susan at a Southern Day Dreamer. Be sure to pop over to see a full list of Outdoor Wednesday posts.

I thought I would share a few pics from our Spring Break trip to Florida.

Our first Saturday there, my sister-in-law, Linda took us "shellin". We drove over to Honeymoon Island State Park just before sunset and searched for sea treasures that had washed up on the beach during high tide. My oldest son takes in a gorgeous West Coast sunset.
Linda is a professional photographer and took this opportunity to capture some magic on camera. Linda lives only a few miles from the beach so most Sunday afternoons she spends some quality "down" time searching for shells and shooting scenes of the coastline and beach.

Here Mr. Panache and his little sister are getting up close and personal with a Hermit Crab. We found several shells that were still "occupied". Of course, we tossed those back into the sea. Our little excursion was fairly successful. We came back with a couple bags of various sized shells to be cleaned and bleached.
Spring and summer are perfect times to display shells in your decor. I use shells is a variety of ways and places. Just that little reminder of lazy, relaxed days of vacation seems to lighten my mood. The pictures that follow show some neat ideas for incorporating shells and sea treasures in your everyday decorating. Enjoy!

Display a few shells and Starfish along with personal photographs and an elegant silver vase. The shiny, reflective surface of the vase is perfectly paired with the these chalky white treasures.

Placing pretty cool-colored bowls filled with shells around your bathroom is the ideal method for bringing the beach home with you. The soft aqua of the bowl is the perfect spring and summer hue.

The warm weather months of spring and summer are meant to be relaxed and laid-back not formal and stuffy. Mixing beachy decor along with your classic or traditional art and accessories adds a touch of whimsy and downplays the formality just a bit.

Sometimes less is definitely more! And this bedside table certainly displays that mantra. Three large shells is all that is needed to add a touch of the beach to this bedroom.

A simple but elegant display - take a large clear vessel and fill the bottom with 3 cups of sand. Insert one large "statement" shell and viola - the perfect summertime accessory.

A large shell shaped bowl finds it's place by holding a pretty display of scented soaps and Starfish.

We haven't talked alot about coral but what a perfect paring with these sea shells. Coral is so "now" and it adds wonderful seaside appeal to any room.

Here, a groups of shells clustered together adds the right amount of texture to this monochromatic display.

A framed piece of art and a single Starfish displayed with a shell-shaped bowl of kumquates brings a touch of the sea to this tabletop display.

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Don't forget to visit Susan and all the other OUTDOOR WEDNESDAY participants for more inspiration! Until I see you again,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa

Sunday Favorites - A re-run "On the Beach"

2009-04-25T21:07:00.005-04:00

Welcome to my very first "SUNDAY FAVORITES". This brilliant idea was conceived by Chari over at Happy to Design. Be sure to pay her a visit to read all about Sunday Favorites and to view the full list of participants for this week. You'll be happy you did!

Chari over at Happy to Design had this wonderful idea to feature our favorite posts on Sundays. Many of us have a lot going on during the weekends and don't have time to compose a fresh and new post. Also new readers and bloggers are coming to blogland everyday and the chances that everyone has seen your past post is pretty slim.

This gives new readers a chance to view some of your favorites while letting your faithful followers a chance for a "re-run". S0, I am featuring a post from earlier this year. It's a tablescape that I adore because it reminds me of home, family and my best friend.....

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Okay, so I decided to marry a Florida native about 20 years ago. Up until that time I had never even been to Florida! And I had only seen the ocean one other time and that was in Virginia! Needless to say, not only did I fall in love with Mr. Right but Palm Trees, Seashells, Sandy White Beaches and West Coast Florida Sunsets fell right in line. I started thinking last week that next month is Mr. Right's birthday and wouldn't it be great to have a seafood buffet for his birthday dinner. Grill up a little Salmon in Lemon-Dill sauce, pan sear some Scallops and bake Crab-stuffed Mushrooms with Hollandaise Sauce....hmm. This started me thinking about table decor - naturally. So this week's TABLESCAPE is a forerunner of next month's birthday buffet but Ssh! Don't tell because I want it to be a surprise. This table is all about Seashells and the color of a Florida Sunset.

Burnt Orange linen placemats set the right amount of color punch to play up the white dishes. I love these Shell shaped salad plates. They were a real-deal at HomeGoods and work perfectly with my Ivory dishes from Better Homes and Gardens.

Silver accents and Mercury Glass give just the right amount of glitz.

A real Florida, West Coast sunset. Isn't that just beautiful? Thanks Linda Charlene for the use of your incredible photo! XOXO! Now you see where I got the inspiration to use the orange placemats.

Walking along the beach after a storm is the best time to find little treasures washed up from the depths of the ocean.

The color pallet is very simple - white, orange and silver - but it all glows in the soft flicker of candlelight.

I found these little bronze Starfish napkin rings at BBandB while I was still living in Florida. I pulled an ivory cotton napkin through the ring, then stood it up resembling an Octopus. Okay, work with me here - use your imagination. If you tilt your head and squint your eyes it COULD look like an Octopus.

Last week a Reader e-mailed me asking how many sets of dishes do I own. The answer is one. I do have extra salad plates and bowls or plates only from other patterns but as far as complete place settings go, I have one set, enough for 10 place settings. Most of my tablescapes use common pieces. The differences are all in the linens and the accessories. Invest in a neutral color and style, then you can mix and match to your heart's content.

The romantic glow of candlelight adds ambiance reminiscent of an evening clam bake on the beach.

Now, this little guy won't be center stage during the birthday dinner but I'm sure I'll find a nice place for him to rest.

Here is a close-up of the shell-shaped salad plate. Notice the raised details at the bottom of the plate - it is a cluster of little seashells.

This shell-shaped silver serving platter will most likely hold Peel and Eat Shrimp during the seafood buffet. I have three of these in various sizes. All of them were purchased at Target on a markdown sale. They will make the perfect buffet set-up and keep our seaside theme in tact. Well, I hope you have enjoyed the "Walk Along the Beach" table. Until I see you again,

Happy Decorating!

~Alisa