tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80879856797089020822024-03-14T02:03:43.896-04:00Acanthus and AcornA design and lifestyle blog written by an interior designer.Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.comBlogger291125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-2184789719498326412014-04-01T08:40:00.002-04:002014-04-01T08:40:34.691-04:00Tuesday Tip<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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You can never have enough seating! So why not make it portable, flexible and a little thrifty?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdeGMcnaRqsSZaOGvE3_Atgp5WPRQ-nXgd47Vngw0q26KonR5r88Nh32rm91FSTHTM_HRcaAcoK8uUkojgWZVDTq9Bvn1en5ZqUqghWVYiOFlpDN4rxro9o5wXD8TJJFn-1WA5ei6hiwE/s1600/A%2526A+Target+bench.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" closure_lm_974370="null" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdeGMcnaRqsSZaOGvE3_Atgp5WPRQ-nXgd47Vngw0q26KonR5r88Nh32rm91FSTHTM_HRcaAcoK8uUkojgWZVDTq9Bvn1en5ZqUqghWVYiOFlpDN4rxro9o5wXD8TJJFn-1WA5ei6hiwE/s1600/A%2526A+Target+bench.JPG" height="640" uta="true" width="488" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of 2 benches in the client's foyer.</td></tr>
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This is exactly what I did for a client and not just because I have a thing for <a href="http://www.acanthusandacorn.blogspot.com/2012/01/sit-on-your-tuffet.html">benches, ottomans and stools</a>. But because there was a need for additional seating for evening gatherings. However, on a daily basis the room needed to be open for traffic flow, so to speak. The room, which I will show you in another post, was the first of it's kind I've ever done!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZSPqCSIfVbb8yflflYaWwFsTzM60jIZPKjtu2HPcJPBCpopQuvXkoyuh9_Cp8qinx5MJnjaRjWpx4FLnjESsYVoq254KrO03MtC1kOJ1_PrtBKsfeI5UgpUe2JAK0Jtp6SSjM5xW8kOM/s1600/A%2526A+HG+bench.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" closure_lm_974370="null" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZSPqCSIfVbb8yflflYaWwFsTzM60jIZPKjtu2HPcJPBCpopQuvXkoyuh9_Cp8qinx5MJnjaRjWpx4FLnjESsYVoq254KrO03MtC1kOJ1_PrtBKsfeI5UgpUe2JAK0Jtp6SSjM5xW8kOM/s1600/A%2526A+HG+bench.JPG" height="402" uta="true" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I recently saw this very similar bench at Home Goods. I forgot to take "before" pictures of the benches I used, so I thought this was a good reference since they too had faux leather seats. </td></tr>
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The solution? Add 2 benches to the adjacent foyer from Target! Recover them in a fabulous fabric that coordinates in 2 rooms so they can be put into service anytime. and look as if they belonged in either room here all the time.<br />
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Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-82555632221710729652014-03-23T22:45:00.001-04:002014-03-24T09:57:22.805-04:00Client's New Powder Room Revealed!<br />
I think the main powder room of a house should have a little sophistication and at the very least a bit of flair! I know many decorators like to treat powder rooms like little jewel boxes, myself included. Client's on the other hand can be oh so apprehensive to go a little nuts. Such was the case with this client.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYUDM-hgbcO29G54eQgbA3ZURpyyQRu4qpkmEMNmguqjl2BVle9h09UtpG765L6nMvTbS4HaEQ1od45DtFl8g5a91IeTDdT3JDFcSpDlaJj0R50e-rG43UcmUHnOJp-r21aDFfcIJNvYw/s1600/A&A+PR+paper.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" closure_lm_132940="null" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYUDM-hgbcO29G54eQgbA3ZURpyyQRu4qpkmEMNmguqjl2BVle9h09UtpG765L6nMvTbS4HaEQ1od45DtFl8g5a91IeTDdT3JDFcSpDlaJj0R50e-rG43UcmUHnOJp-r21aDFfcIJNvYw/s1600/A&A+PR+paper.JPG" height="640" tta="true" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">A graphic metallic wallpaper in the end brought the space to life!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">This was how the space looked just after install and paint. Rather boring I thought. I originally proposed wallpaper, but the client got cold feet and couldn't commit. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">The room was newly created from a previous closet. The client also wanted to use an existing fixture and center it on the back wall and then add a long mirror to cover the wall from sink to toilet. In case you wondering how I felt about that, well you can read about it <a href="http://www.acanthusandacorn.blogspot.com/2010/01/guest-bathroom-reclaimed.html">here</a>. But let's just say I think a blank wall of darkness would be s a better option! My suggestion, albeit unconventional, was install a scone over the toilet. And, I knew just the one.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">I thought the beautiful herringbone pattern marble floors needed to be a feature, not the toilet and sink! But sometimes you have to do things one way in order to get them done the best way. So everything was installed...</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIbQi-osWHZyLQQNRfJ9NGnGF4VkLErOoR2yDYHl6a4A0VpdNCk30WUYq08fc-J7XwStQBPSx85QrOt8RpyltQYdtBPiFGiYRdlKC0_qvkgTgGaCBut32QvcHv42OtVy_ROEq28stmLU8/s1600/A&A+move+light+add+mirror.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" closure_lm_981601="null" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIbQi-osWHZyLQQNRfJ9NGnGF4VkLErOoR2yDYHl6a4A0VpdNCk30WUYq08fc-J7XwStQBPSx85QrOt8RpyltQYdtBPiFGiYRdlKC0_qvkgTgGaCBut32QvcHv42OtVy_ROEq28stmLU8/s1600/A&A+move+light+add+mirror.JPG" height="640" tta="true" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is a very small room. I knew this oversized sconce would be a great addition to illuminate the room properly and distract from the loo. Same with the tall mirror, it had to be interesting and reflect as much light as possible. Adding these 2 items made a big impact, but the bland paint just wasn't doing anything for the gorgeous floors or going to yield the result I knew was possible with paper. So again, I showed my renovation weary- wallpaper phobic client 3 different papers that could work. She decided on a graphic metallic. No one was more surprised than me. She fell in love with the paper as soon as it went up. </span><span style="font-size: small;">The outcome was thrilling for both of us! </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">If this little jewel box isn't proof that papering the powder room is the way to go,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> I don't know what is then!!!</span><br />
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Sources:</div>
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Sink & toilet: TOTO</div>
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Wallpaper: Thibaut</div>
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Sconce: Corbett</div>
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Mirror & Accessories: RLI Interiors</div>
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Final photo: Hadley Photography</div>
Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-48675312515117219182014-03-20T12:56:00.001-04:002014-03-20T20:49:26.562-04:00In Like A Lamb?
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's nearly impossible to believe I took this photo last Spring!</td></tr>
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This was the winter of our discontent I think most would certainly agree. St. Patrick' Day did not bring the luck of the Irish, it dumped 8+ inches of snow in my neighborhood. Just the sight of my snow boots and the shovel make me cringe. I keep wondering when the day will arrive that I won't come home and reach for something warm to put on and then turn on the fireplace? More snow is forcasted next week.<br />
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It has certainly been the winter of rescheduling! I feel like I am either making a call to reschedule someone or something or I am receiving a call to do the same. My calender appears as if a small child has taken to scribbling randomly on it. That said, I have many projects to share with you!<br />
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But I'm feeling optimistic we can all shed the wool soon, very soon. Seems my washer was sick of all the winter clothes too, it finally gave out and I'm on the hunt for a new one, do you have one you love?<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Happy</span> <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Spring</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">!!!</span></span>Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-35826470452540974702014-02-14T06:01:00.000-05:002014-02-14T08:53:07.891-05:00My Snowy Valentine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I dashed out early Wednesday morning ahead of the snowstorm and crowds, to get ready for cupid's holiday. It felt like a sweet little victory to get everything checked off my list and spend the afternoon cooking and listening to French music.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A romantic card on a pretty cotton tablecloth.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yesterday morning I came downstairs opened the front door and this was the scene. Over 12" and still snowing. Those little mounds just beyond the Korean Lilac are boxwoods. By the time round two rolled through, there wasn't a bit of green to be seen. Yesterday afternoon was spent shoveling-round three comes tonight or tomorrow!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I couldn't decide on one color, so I chose three! Who says you need roses to set a romantic tone?</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little something for the foyer table too.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3K62RJcEWgK2q9a6g42Ka06B6WGUcmTmoFVclab_XGW9MdYq6Hm-QSK-lTWz-zz6K8HFwxBTdEHb-KRNH2Kraa-qLJDOuLgU_GqQWkXoZ7_Ng9moLTVHObPtzdi-tFflrOw6QK6YtfU0/s1600/A%2526A+embroidered+love+towel.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" closure_lm_353483="null" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3K62RJcEWgK2q9a6g42Ka06B6WGUcmTmoFVclab_XGW9MdYq6Hm-QSK-lTWz-zz6K8HFwxBTdEHb-KRNH2Kraa-qLJDOuLgU_GqQWkXoZ7_Ng9moLTVHObPtzdi-tFflrOw6QK6YtfU0/s1600/A%2526A+embroidered+love+towel.JPG" dta="true" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who doesn't LOVE an embroidered linen hand towel? </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnRCJxT9rRyH-smxGxMU-oNtf3xvtCoic0-6szVQDc6eHGGl0V1crMjoUUnxoWIMZx8uZr8mjwUmnCnELN9m0-ZGCtwxRtf9nDHKR0r1sXGwLTml7KOCabCKBQivcrg7hlU1FKbt5kIbg/s1600/A%2526A+snow+dog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" closure_lm_353483="null" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnRCJxT9rRyH-smxGxMU-oNtf3xvtCoic0-6szVQDc6eHGGl0V1crMjoUUnxoWIMZx8uZr8mjwUmnCnELN9m0-ZGCtwxRtf9nDHKR0r1sXGwLTml7KOCabCKBQivcrg7hlU1FKbt5kIbg/s1600/A%2526A+snow+dog.jpg" dta="true" height="640" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wondering how long the shoveling was going to take yesterday...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-a8DOaDlWavTMRlRXU9AqDkoZTWkN7arQHjQbGWyNFY6RPS7j2eHEhDjPWqJNluqb8CbdtyZeqbE_l-eYdcKgHOT6Yq2p25xemiSqQN6strlrTIFoyI7pi-wizBXno82aSlMundXGLjY/s1600/A&A+beared+dog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" closure_lm_353483="null" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-a8DOaDlWavTMRlRXU9AqDkoZTWkN7arQHjQbGWyNFY6RPS7j2eHEhDjPWqJNluqb8CbdtyZeqbE_l-eYdcKgHOT6Yq2p25xemiSqQN6strlrTIFoyI7pi-wizBXno82aSlMundXGLjY/s1600/A&A+beared+dog.jpg" dta="true" height="640" width="566" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">so we could play!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHb1GZ5vpewq80toy3CxjOJj8Mpt4PXmeqDnebnT6xfefNswlW2IYpFoyoC21A59NDc7faaom0u9wQTxDugmesGt8dfRjbYicog4g-gV2t8pNGXgLoMizgnIlUBnYKgaHYY5ZIFCegvys/s1600/A&A+XOXO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" closure_lm_353483="null" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHb1GZ5vpewq80toy3CxjOJj8Mpt4PXmeqDnebnT6xfefNswlW2IYpFoyoC21A59NDc7faaom0u9wQTxDugmesGt8dfRjbYicog4g-gV2t8pNGXgLoMizgnIlUBnYKgaHYY5ZIFCegvys/s1600/A&A+XOXO.jpg" dta="true" height="394" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wooden letters and glass hearts to send hugs & kisses and wish you a<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> <span style="font-size: small;">Happy Valentines Day!</span></span></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">All photos courtesy of A&A</span>Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-64971461121466666982014-02-06T09:59:00.002-05:002014-02-14T11:23:46.637-05:00What Would Edith Wharton Say?Dearest Edith,<br />
<br />
I am writing to inform you that formal living rooms are no longer in fashion. Well, at least in the 21st century. Well, at least at my house. And, perhaps a few million other people. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdKY9EslH9IJRPLDdY0lwdYho417eWZaw7B6E2ad2C0cN4JdW9On8_KICsOw8Poj6-bs4T3SNuDfK9dWv5EhcE2u83N1ojKD2LmOECY_N5ksNSNVNnsKapzaBXCd8kgm6hJw3JIRYuSdY/s1600/i-vMzdKST-X2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdKY9EslH9IJRPLDdY0lwdYho417eWZaw7B6E2ad2C0cN4JdW9On8_KICsOw8Poj6-bs4T3SNuDfK9dWv5EhcE2u83N1ojKD2LmOECY_N5ksNSNVNnsKapzaBXCd8kgm6hJw3JIRYuSdY/s1600/i-vMzdKST-X2.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A formal living room that Edith would certainly have enjoyed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Please don't faint when I tell you that the living room, formally known as the parlour, has far too often become a large box devoid of all architectural detail, fireplaces and appropriate furnishings. Well at least (no fireplace) at my house. And, perhaps a few million other people.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPw2PFVmyGaX4ABVY0b-9Uhzj6rGgV7YDq2NAUcGOklnOgcX7biGV-zouXNoRp6Q01rXbKMb15yUfFFcH7YOUtYeKAh7MkTNfamjew9rxVojucky0nRx5PkgxWGiOCDAmEW0hbeQI7Jzc/s1600/A%2526A+EW+book.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" closure_lm_598174="null" cua="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPw2PFVmyGaX4ABVY0b-9Uhzj6rGgV7YDq2NAUcGOklnOgcX7biGV-zouXNoRp6Q01rXbKMb15yUfFFcH7YOUtYeKAh7MkTNfamjew9rxVojucky0nRx5PkgxWGiOCDAmEW0hbeQI7Jzc/s1600/A%2526A+EW+book.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I have read your book, like any decorator should, cover to cover.</td></tr>
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<br />
It's incredibly sad. And incredibly liberating! You would be quite shocked to learn that people rarely dress up and entertain in the living room except perhaps during the holiday season. I must confess I often wear pants or jeans, a silk blouse and heels while entertaining. I know you don't know what jeans are and that's just as well. If you did, you would likely gasp. Pants are like men's trousers, but for women. With the exception of hiring the occasional caterer, I do all the cooking for parties. I have no servants. People often gather in the family room (which should really be called the living room because it's where we do most of our activities), libraries and kitchens. Probably because of the lack of servants. Well at least at my house. And, perhaps a few million other people.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioiV_3eyjKIsSCUJiB3oc1mgEEpOUZQtgnKw1-k-9ltAMW_COzbQkx2vCZxa4lW4hIPxK5W0pp1BJ7Cyx0csBYIIilQ8TsISU6ybwHtIARR5rTVJKVxZUaY-vcQlLS_UYTFE0AoE2vYUQ/s1600/1007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioiV_3eyjKIsSCUJiB3oc1mgEEpOUZQtgnKw1-k-9ltAMW_COzbQkx2vCZxa4lW4hIPxK5W0pp1BJ7Cyx0csBYIIilQ8TsISU6ybwHtIARR5rTVJKVxZUaY-vcQlLS_UYTFE0AoE2vYUQ/s1600/1007.jpg" height="308" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Classic yet modern in it's multi-purpose function of working, dining and whining. I love the idea for this space, but I would whine without at least two comfortable chairs next to a fireplace to enjoy my favorite bottle and a good book!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Even though I have a library, it has been my dream for far too long to convert our seldom used living room into a large library/office. The current library is small does not have adequate bookshelves, but it is a wonderfully cozy room with a fireplace and a large window overlooking the backyard and we use it in every season, every day. It's probably my favorite room. I love to shut the french doors read, listen to music, enjoy my favorite elixirs and even work. A larger library would better suit our particular lifestyle. I don't know if we'll have the chance to fulfill our dream of converting the living room in this house, but it's high on the list for the next one! I think you (and hope architects of the future) understand this preference and shift and would be proud that we (decorators) will strive to include appropriate architectural details and volumes of books. And of course only a few, well chosen biblots and most definitely keep the bric-a-brac to a minimum!<br />
<br />
Affectionately,<br />
A devoted reader<br />
<br />
PS: I do understand that not everyone would agree with me on this point. And I have seen and been a guest in some beautiful, well appointed living rooms that the occupants use for formal entertaining. And although it's not for me, as I prefer a room that serves more than one function, I still appreciate the beauty when I sit in one that is well done and love to help clients create one if it's part of their design dream <b>and</b> lifestyle. After all, life unfolds in the rooms we use and love the most. It's where our memories are made and the details of our stories are gathered for future generations. I know dearest Edith, you would approve of that sentiment.<br />
<br />
<br />Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-33129283869593218862014-01-27T21:40:00.000-05:002014-02-14T06:44:11.298-05:00Baby, it's cold outside!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Talk about the shivers!!! On my way home, I passed by this house located in Middleburg, Virginia. The large icicle over the doorway was about 5 feet long- absolutely horrifying! I was already freezing cold and this just made me want to get home quickly and park myself next to the fireplace for the evening. We still have plenty of snow on the ground and with the latest weather forecast, it seems few will be escaping Mother Nature's icy grip this year. Brrrrr. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8G3NjKfh56DuxKOlkyS1vYaiCiG9jrXW1tRJY6hb_ncJRpVfbuKv_2vXHoogDTROWu9Hpyzg7oswtmb403NRtLP9Kht2gyi6H3Tn0MwBYhvbAZp4P9apW2tANeEhaxn-w2IU_gkyKmpE/s1600/photo-44.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8G3NjKfh56DuxKOlkyS1vYaiCiG9jrXW1tRJY6hb_ncJRpVfbuKv_2vXHoogDTROWu9Hpyzg7oswtmb403NRtLP9Kht2gyi6H3Tn0MwBYhvbAZp4P9apW2tANeEhaxn-w2IU_gkyKmpE/s1600/photo-44.JPG" height="640" width="586" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I certainly hope there is another way into this house!?</td></tr>
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Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-74899930103572360542014-01-01T18:16:00.000-05:002014-01-02T14:40:02.836-05:002014. What's In/What's Out? Every year the Washington Post publishes it's Out/In List. And, just like every new year I read it along with Dave Barry's year in review. The DB article is a cynical, albeit mostly true, synopsis of what each month had to offer in world events, politics and people that captured our attention for better or worse. Mostly the latter. It is always so damn funny. The out/in list is an entirely different read, almost like the pulse of current pop culture and trends. I am always surprised by the things that I've never heard of and the things that don't make the list. So this year I felt compelled to come up with a list of my own!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghyphenhyphenenqGBaMaJs3z0RW2BOmUDbhwKbaYdrx5Jm87tFMnJ5vdzmqpwyebFFWiLlW0oMQaoOC0SUvamnWJaA2eCG2AZ2zyxl1B3JuHfKf8KHBsA9O_LvgW6nGLFAorAwJQcfr1rmoLXkGrZA/s1600/photo-33.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghyphenhyphenenqGBaMaJs3z0RW2BOmUDbhwKbaYdrx5Jm87tFMnJ5vdzmqpwyebFFWiLlW0oMQaoOC0SUvamnWJaA2eCG2AZ2zyxl1B3JuHfKf8KHBsA9O_LvgW6nGLFAorAwJQcfr1rmoLXkGrZA/s200/photo-33.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipgdcP9HosHg1xj5jSCsP_WCh1Usopjdp5SHBN2tLQ64EF4U72y6KIWFCtk2nO_gjSZDkN3ZOFopBKhSTA0Dd3sVcgEria5pw5Ahh7MitQvZiHOiePdyststxPvksxjZQEtoztkF17BD8/s1600/photo-34.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipgdcP9HosHg1xj5jSCsP_WCh1Usopjdp5SHBN2tLQ64EF4U72y6KIWFCtk2nO_gjSZDkN3ZOFopBKhSTA0Dd3sVcgEria5pw5Ahh7MitQvZiHOiePdyststxPvksxjZQEtoztkF17BD8/s200/photo-34.JPG" width="199" /></a><br />
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<span style="text-align: left;"><b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </b> </span><span style="text-align: left;"> </span><b style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">OUT </span></b> <span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>IN</b></span><br />
weird pet pictures silly pet pictures </div>
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Wiener, Spitzer, Ford anybody else</div>
fiscal cliff bankruptcy <br />
parking spots for expecting mothers parking spots for actual handicapped people <br />
loud talkers discreet talkers <br />
over sharing restraint<br />
trellis patterns velvet solids<br />
neon colors jewel tones<br />
skinny jeans long skirts<br />
scarves in summer scarves in winter<br />
gloves long gloves<br />
bulky coats car coats and capes<br />
Dexter Downtown Abbey<br />
20 something know-it-alls 50 somethings who know more, but don't over share<br />
yearly trends classics<br />
chemically aged or faux brass naturally aged solid brass and french brass<br />
succulents topiaries<br />
cupcakes muffins<br />
dinner parties supper clubs<br />
texting to talk actual phone conversations <br />
air kissing real kissing<br />
bromance drinking buddy<br />
baby bump pregnant<br />
my bad oops<br />
people who think they're interesting people who live lives beyond social media<br />
big egos graciousness<br />
wonderful, fabulous the truth<br />
smart phones as security blankets confidence<br />
politicians on late night dignified leaders<br />
whatever witty quips<br />
back scratchers scalp massagers<br />
antlers on cars wreaths on car grills<br />
inflatable holiday decor wreaths on windows, lights that work<br />
stretchy dog leashes standard leads controlled by considerate dog owners<br />
ugly Christmas sweaters/theme parties adults acting like adults <br />
public marriage proposals dignified private proposals<br />
saying what you think you should say having an opinion<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">And on that note, I'd love to hear your opinions of what you think should be on the list!</span>Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-22917936458594898232013-12-24T13:44:00.002-05:002014-01-02T14:34:20.375-05:00Merry, Merry Christmas!I thought I was being brave <a href="http://www.acanthusandacorn.blogspot.com/2012/12/have-yourself-merry-little-christmas.html">last</a> year venturing into orange, but when my husband said he'd like to see purple, his favorite color, in the decorating scheme, I was a bit concerned I couldn't pull it off... tastefully.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJJ8bx0L4GLrN84p-5U9BbVYnXGU0S9_IEMQemHJW8XklK_bJuP580o6-QFWX5JhxJVuukusMePxko0U5WCbtWEJyl5fYdPIVYynDDF0dGdUmhPLGszFOIE4qDJ8337x1qMRN6dzS9X14/s1600/A%2526A+mantle+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_lm_539180="null" gua="true" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJJ8bx0L4GLrN84p-5U9BbVYnXGU0S9_IEMQemHJW8XklK_bJuP580o6-QFWX5JhxJVuukusMePxko0U5WCbtWEJyl5fYdPIVYynDDF0dGdUmhPLGszFOIE4qDJ8337x1qMRN6dzS9X14/s640/A%2526A+mantle+2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then after an exhaustive search, I couldn't seem to turn up anything that didn't look like it belonged in the eighties or a teenage girls room. Ironically, I discovered from a few retailers purple was the "in" color last year.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm6mOGYnh_GNKoEztnNixofq7nisXIVJhdfvreuaNodp3KCGVMrJwM32xnrXNfKyqg6wDeNLIzxFWTaqXtExmAjwR_nfBbNQMQi2JANp5krrd5Q5zw3X08fX98Qk4o4Cc53bUuBxy2Eec/s1600/A&A+bowl+of+greens.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gua="true" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm6mOGYnh_GNKoEztnNixofq7nisXIVJhdfvreuaNodp3KCGVMrJwM32xnrXNfKyqg6wDeNLIzxFWTaqXtExmAjwR_nfBbNQMQi2JANp5krrd5Q5zw3X08fX98Qk4o4Cc53bUuBxy2Eec/s640/A&A+bowl+of+greens.JPG" width="422" /></a> </div>
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So I found myself hours from starting the tree decorating with no real plan other than I loved the tree last year and the <a href="http://www.acanthusandacorn.blogspot.com/2011/12/merry-christmas-from-my-house-to-yours.html">year</a> before. I still wanted to use orange, but maybe in a more subtle natural way. That of course meant drying dozens of orange slices. A short time later I got a call from my husband declaring he found purple glass balls. He was at Home Depot, now I was really nervous. Turned out no cause for concern was necessary. He came home with 2 large boxes with a mix of shiny and matte balls that conjured up visions of sugar plums! </div>
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Each year I think the current tree is my favorite, but this year I finally realized they are all my favorites because they start with the same basic mix of things made by my kids and all the sentimental ornaments we've collected over the years.<br />
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Who would have thought orange and purple would be my favorite combination ever- well at least this year!<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">WISHING YOU AND YOURS A MERRY, MERRY CHRISTMAS!</span>Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-41083759840563306832013-10-11T19:30:00.000-04:002013-10-11T19:30:10.252-04:00The Great Pumpkin Craving And A Favorite Muffin Recipe!I go through it every year, that seasonal addiction that has me obsessing over pumpkins. Don't you?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Bet you can't eat just one!</span></td></tr>
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The origin of the original recipe is unknown, I tore it from a magazine long ago. Over the years I've made changes here and there until it had that perfect combo of spice and moist richness. It's a holiday staple in our house and a family favorite. This is my first time sharing it...with anyone!<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Rebecca's Pumpkin Spice Muffins</span><br />
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Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Grease a 12 count muffin pan with very soft butter using the butter wrapper or parchment paper.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>In a medium bowl combine and set aside:</strong></span><br />
3 1/2 C. all-purpose flour<br />
2 tsp. baking soda<br />
1/2 tsp. baking powder<br />
1tsp salt<br />
2 tsp. ground cinnamon<br />
1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg<br />
1/2 tsp ground cloves<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>In a large bowl, beat until creamy:</strong></span><br />
1 stick unsalted butter-softened<br />
2 cups sugar<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Then add:</strong></span><br />
1tsp. vanilla<br />
4 eggs<br />
1 C. applesauce<br />
1 C. canned pumpkin<br />
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<strong>Plus:</strong><br />
2/3 C. apple cider*<br />
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Begin mixing in dry ingredients, alternating with the apple cider*. Stir in nuts and raisins last.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>And:</strong></span><br />
Add 1 1/2 C. golden raisins (regular can be substituted)<br />
Add 1/2 cup chopped pecans (if you're a nut lover)<br />
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Bake 18-20 minutes.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Sweet Twist:</strong></span><br />
Skip the nuts & raisins and top with your favorite cream cheese icing and turn it into a cupcake! Or mix softened butter with a bit of maple syrup and spread on warm muffins. Serve with hot cider for the perfect treat sitting by a roaring fire!<br />
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Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-32143678271848768122013-10-01T16:30:00.001-04:002013-10-01T16:30:47.704-04:00Tuesday Tip<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Consider giving something you thought was really ugly a complete overhaul. The results may surprise you!
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRX6l3lx72q2XZoxnekEDGuetxxnEJ3gn_0UxCzqYvtDnyq1trzkYsBm1WCAB8m8FX8GTvbslwJ8PIgmWtAHrffX0NKfBdHD3psLhnhPulFAmo1KCb7IRWgKmXLrTJNIJL_1aOS9wvriE/s1600/MK+chair+before.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" closure_lm_468472="null" height="498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRX6l3lx72q2XZoxnekEDGuetxxnEJ3gn_0UxCzqYvtDnyq1trzkYsBm1WCAB8m8FX8GTvbslwJ8PIgmWtAHrffX0NKfBdHD3psLhnhPulFAmo1KCb7IRWgKmXLrTJNIJL_1aOS9wvriE/s640/MK+chair+before.JPG" width="640" xsa="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>BEFORE:</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">The client sent me this photo taken at night, I'd swear, just to demonstrate how ugly and hopeless the chair was in </span><span style="font-size: small;">it's current state. It had been recovered in this red stripped, somewhat shiny, fabric a decade ago. The little blue fabric swatch she tossed on the back indicated to me she was open to the possibility it </span><span style="font-size: small;">could have a new life. That and a story she told me of how this was the chair that her husband used to sit on, with a board laid acrss the arms, so he could do his homework as a child. I pounced on it! And not just because of sentimal reasons...</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><img border="0" closure_lm_468472="null" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipeJ2ig6OvEIqdVHVs-fUyLfi2-EbM9fLj8LaaaUDr5QYLmuW4HYFPEljk2cWx3fpNxQM5cd9qXLo15ZRwR_UudTLSIccVmvQnEOgGc8gdntP6wxl53CpP4-q2lUTavQgbtVs5pm156JY/s640/MK+chair+before+2.JPG" width="536" xsa="true" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>BEFORE:</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">but also becasue this chair had the right proportions, was well made and so interesting with the barley twist details! Not what you normally see on an Arts and Crafts style chair. A <a href="http://www.acanthusandacorn.blogspot.com/2010/08/chairs-bobbins-spools.html">bobbin or spool</a> chair would have been a handsome addition to the room. But I didn't see the point when I knew this one would do just fine. We took the blue velvet seat from an occasional chair, just to have a look since</span><span style="font-size: small;"> the client thought she wanted blue to be one of the predominate colors in the room.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnTtVa2DLxIpvdlNIRlvx5B9zJ9oSJyvyg0AZhLjPEjvQpzPjSpsWHJvEovclKwafX7-ROudvPT-J-VD14hwecT36nWYkcg2X-B2dQoSmDnOEeJrzMZsHE_CvxS0gwtPeELL8QY7nKYkU/s1600/MK+chair+before+fabric.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnTtVa2DLxIpvdlNIRlvx5B9zJ9oSJyvyg0AZhLjPEjvQpzPjSpsWHJvEovclKwafX7-ROudvPT-J-VD14hwecT36nWYkcg2X-B2dQoSmDnOEeJrzMZsHE_CvxS0gwtPeELL8QY7nKYkU/s640/MK+chair+before+fabric.JPG" width="518" xsa="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>AFTER:</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Purist's look away, or least try to keep in mind I was trying to save this chair from a life sentence in a basement. The new ebony color, proved to be just the stroke of <a href="http://www.acanthusandacorn.blogspot.com/2012/09/a-look-inside-genius-of-gary-world.html">genius</a> that many of you got a good laugh over last year! It certainly yielded the desired effect to overhaul this baby.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;">And, of course the perfect fabrics...</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwNQrH88ibr7Iv3OyP2RV9NjJ4PX0lnPbdaJNWBXT949JW1TtnuTP6H-tajJwJGwX7tNWraJkhmzCnky5tvGWrjaORaEeXRodRN5jgrLZRR0h6inHuW-byt0_e-k977oPn-a97bo_Q5vk/s1600/MK+chair+after.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: small;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwNQrH88ibr7Iv3OyP2RV9NjJ4PX0lnPbdaJNWBXT949JW1TtnuTP6H-tajJwJGwX7tNWraJkhmzCnky5tvGWrjaORaEeXRodRN5jgrLZRR0h6inHuW-byt0_e-k977oPn-a97bo_Q5vk/s640/MK+chair+after.JPG" width="448" xsa="true" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">made the transformation complete. The cream toss pillow with the carmel velvet "conversation bubbles" is from John Robshaw </span><span style="font-size: small;">and the wool plaid is from Kravet. </span><span style="font-size: small;"> As you can see, we ended up with just a hint of blue-gray in the plaid I selected. I joked with the client that if she comes home one day and the chair is missing, it's at my house. Her response? It better not be because now it's one of her favorite pieces too!</span><br />
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Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-45362035592882571812013-09-25T07:07:00.000-04:002013-12-28T18:03:34.850-05:00From McCartney To The Mundane, It Was A Sensational Summer!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Town Alexandria, Virginia</td></tr>
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Although autumn arrived a few days ago, my mind still lingers on summer. It was all the things summer is suppose to be- lazy, crazy and full of wonderful memories. And though I did intend to take a break from blogging for a month or so, somehow it turned into the whole summer. It went by in a blink.<br />
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It has also been an adjustment period with many changes occurring in a very short period of time for all members of the household. But most significantly, this was the first time, in years, our family has had this amount of consecutive time together. So other than attending to my design work, my only focus was to savor every single day, every single minute possible with the ones I love.<br />
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Scenes from our summer, from the mundane to the magical...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Spectacular giant urns and...</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">and Limelight hydrangea have been on my wish list for some time. Lunch on the patio of </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">The Red Fox Tavern in Middleburg, Virginia.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">So inspired by the above, we added a new little garden of our own with Limelight's this year.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwE3ADCNYIXXG8xdtSA_PMy1rIikFiTMcFtUfh6Nd0a7vCR4dggRE07MeAnvnKslnr1gIPeS720kl1gdusgnYxu3PWPlKWCL1Z_nFqBiCGoku8r-Z5iUaBaPt28HuD7sf5neMirw2iTFg/s1600/IMG_1887.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwE3ADCNYIXXG8xdtSA_PMy1rIikFiTMcFtUfh6Nd0a7vCR4dggRE07MeAnvnKslnr1gIPeS720kl1gdusgnYxu3PWPlKWCL1Z_nFqBiCGoku8r-Z5iUaBaPt28HuD7sf5neMirw2iTFg/s640/IMG_1887.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">It wouldn't be summer without my blue hydrangea, and shrimp tossed with fresh garden herbs.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVBx5uXWKo6Fi3kf7OxWMKIphxaQuts7Njj1qi7AHEbLrSNq_RdMTjQNTbyYw6604EYgeFgFU3dvdkq32Egc-FC8CJYqnLS7KVbJWYSCf8R1RfOZ4pip0xivG6ZRWlHmjFGw9Ps6K2y18/s1600/IMG_1831.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVBx5uXWKo6Fi3kf7OxWMKIphxaQuts7Njj1qi7AHEbLrSNq_RdMTjQNTbyYw6604EYgeFgFU3dvdkq32Egc-FC8CJYqnLS7KVbJWYSCf8R1RfOZ4pip0xivG6ZRWlHmjFGw9Ps6K2y18/s640/IMG_1831.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Summer is always a great time to catch up on your reading, especially for those attention mongers.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcCAL4E_LHeWBQ2_jJnFAsq1uQ3QZJhLqYcMot7RQWjprQNiereD4ok-VnYSFmUB7HclKr9N9AjEaOspYYeeiMXfGK0d1EJNxqHC5nuaOyDqLK5tHJ4bzU2o_8NIIQSaLftQA6eVBcOxo/s1600/IMG_1571.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcCAL4E_LHeWBQ2_jJnFAsq1uQ3QZJhLqYcMot7RQWjprQNiereD4ok-VnYSFmUB7HclKr9N9AjEaOspYYeeiMXfGK0d1EJNxqHC5nuaOyDqLK5tHJ4bzU2o_8NIIQSaLftQA6eVBcOxo/s640/IMG_1571.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">A stop in a favorite local flower shop to visit, which just happens to be just a few doors away from a favorite French bistro.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiMF1hYGWKcBlN8PrUuDNnorn4ffLgTUELt7oEGLe2HMbnQqR9ZTr3LaaM83XjTxXAVGXUeeNnKvjyWNWg6YZ1bopnWP15rEjXYX7Z5ybaeHZvcMwUy6gcU6uYT8hP8QNVi6pk_LGRJec/s1600/IMG_1900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiMF1hYGWKcBlN8PrUuDNnorn4ffLgTUELt7oEGLe2HMbnQqR9ZTr3LaaM83XjTxXAVGXUeeNnKvjyWNWg6YZ1bopnWP15rEjXYX7Z5ybaeHZvcMwUy6gcU6uYT8hP8QNVi6pk_LGRJec/s640/IMG_1900.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">As I reviewed my photos, I couldn't help but notice, this breakfast from one of our trips </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">shares the same colors as the flowers above.<br /> I swear I didn't use all that butter!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTh6HPSJVwg6ZrPnfJB5FrNu3-cbcuZspbOisg0ju34CWdUIn8D9DDI_-pyGgrY_GDkAxuWfMpQFIlXSVsbUglWI58g3-RZDCD12VQSWhEuS7L9YiPN4vYuUbB6SVsWPqdFPxOv4SMM4E/s1600/IMG_1904.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTh6HPSJVwg6ZrPnfJB5FrNu3-cbcuZspbOisg0ju34CWdUIn8D9DDI_-pyGgrY_GDkAxuWfMpQFIlXSVsbUglWI58g3-RZDCD12VQSWhEuS7L9YiPN4vYuUbB6SVsWPqdFPxOv4SMM4E/s640/IMG_1904.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">At a little European inn we visited in June.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOq_916qf9Kx7-7z_LCv3qp35CMpBVEYOgM6vnVmRPT-LfV1zBa-Jx8ksBBGRqhVYY4DLovfRqBml_PfPnLvhVQNx5nXenZh5wrO0SLqa_-fRON4bgKQYJt7izEPyCRcqdfj_iza6kv74/s1600/IMG_1915.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOq_916qf9Kx7-7z_LCv3qp35CMpBVEYOgM6vnVmRPT-LfV1zBa-Jx8ksBBGRqhVYY4DLovfRqBml_PfPnLvhVQNx5nXenZh5wrO0SLqa_-fRON4bgKQYJt7izEPyCRcqdfj_iza6kv74/s640/IMG_1915.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">And a visit here....</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAWE1IhTmQYQCXSO_1fT6E2oI-ArHfMGlwIzznOIJ62jWI9MdHR2Kl8SPV5vHNTHHRHeUZywI4ex5XhoqZYLF7J_KLpvBkGg728lUa_4nzWNq2Bz4hTC5OXn5ZEd9FDdWDviy1j_GNT84/s1600/IMG_1922.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAWE1IhTmQYQCXSO_1fT6E2oI-ArHfMGlwIzznOIJ62jWI9MdHR2Kl8SPV5vHNTHHRHeUZywI4ex5XhoqZYLF7J_KLpvBkGg728lUa_4nzWNq2Bz4hTC5OXn5ZEd9FDdWDviy1j_GNT84/s640/IMG_1922.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">And a few steps away here. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcSe30ZBRbW5OS2EnvsbBaRrw4FDiX9M2_Fu_2ZJjuFMIOrTZlGQTnXXvFdSNU5HDeS4nr0XldQfg0q09CJNj52MQqoeRnfdjRqYL0A30ME15XMBFNFbLJYBlFTO-LQ7G-3PN91rJJmdk/s1600/IMG_2048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcSe30ZBRbW5OS2EnvsbBaRrw4FDiX9M2_Fu_2ZJjuFMIOrTZlGQTnXXvFdSNU5HDeS4nr0XldQfg0q09CJNj52MQqoeRnfdjRqYL0A30ME15XMBFNFbLJYBlFTO-LQ7G-3PN91rJJmdk/s640/IMG_2048.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Then in July...This was my birthday present!!!!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizzTutrJwSFOiXHPZtGqVXFxhiW_Sb76JPSgNEukyUcdoI-7Vy6oZo1PBizJX5CeNjxNQRl7BVa0nDz3hmGXO34iapGkWStwnGecBBq3IBLDufdIJLCtE9Bh4HhYyU7pGDH58bd0AeiAo/s1600/IMG_2061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizzTutrJwSFOiXHPZtGqVXFxhiW_Sb76JPSgNEukyUcdoI-7Vy6oZo1PBizJX5CeNjxNQRl7BVa0nDz3hmGXO34iapGkWStwnGecBBq3IBLDufdIJLCtE9Bh4HhYyU7pGDH58bd0AeiAo/s640/IMG_2061.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">It was an amazing performance and exciting show. Sir Paul's voice sounded remarkably the same as I remember back in his Wings days. A truly memorable evening, put it on your bucket list!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDiUXtuRqeQjcxVFz2rFSgKy47QM_mC2nng7l3RBMNPvGIp1IZcvAsEIeIhor24FTmnzKMv5gMtCpGo2pOXNIphxVid8O2PLPMof6ocy7nlEciBSjlhWphbZd_NkoAmA7Q2hk4MiVuWek/s1600/IMG_2115.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDiUXtuRqeQjcxVFz2rFSgKy47QM_mC2nng7l3RBMNPvGIp1IZcvAsEIeIhor24FTmnzKMv5gMtCpGo2pOXNIphxVid8O2PLPMof6ocy7nlEciBSjlhWphbZd_NkoAmA7Q2hk4MiVuWek/s640/IMG_2115.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Like these people did! Nationals Park, Washington D.C.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBxZArb-kNcGPNdyv1JC0a4kjB1s-XW5uVPErOgiQAP3TwAnX3l2pURV0tUN57_jjYSuhyhaBZetQ1fqvZEYxJNnVDFuc_N8N5JKlmnuLPaEBbnzkgrLfaiz49s_XtLQ48OGNE5DoAneM/s1600/IMG_2296.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBxZArb-kNcGPNdyv1JC0a4kjB1s-XW5uVPErOgiQAP3TwAnX3l2pURV0tUN57_jjYSuhyhaBZetQ1fqvZEYxJNnVDFuc_N8N5JKlmnuLPaEBbnzkgrLfaiz49s_XtLQ48OGNE5DoAneM/s640/IMG_2296.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Which usually looks like this. GO NATS!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF38rTq0q5VekdujUoRyJjs0xuN6NrlqHvmSSFVJsKk_-ynNnNMRKEJhS32ipAUgCRH1Am-rZgOqXYUvNTeBqCe9yvjdj34jr3qlIRV7hkgLv3q-0GUoxP9FoI-kdJ3e-3FtM2f-Klmwg/s1600/IMG_2011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF38rTq0q5VekdujUoRyJjs0xuN6NrlqHvmSSFVJsKk_-ynNnNMRKEJhS32ipAUgCRH1Am-rZgOqXYUvNTeBqCe9yvjdj34jr3qlIRV7hkgLv3q-0GUoxP9FoI-kdJ3e-3FtM2f-Klmwg/s640/IMG_2011.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Later in the summer we headed up the east coast to swim with the sharks. Kidding, the fin on the left belonged to a beautiful, friendly dolphin in a school swimming within feet of my husband.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvVgjCyFFEiJ3SacxBr-zGslakZyPa7JUCS6qbWEZQlPqy-8jxWWC8OqyYlvSx0vXwd_lhoEPVfuyqJxwyzMwnygtyHDm5-iQFeugz8Tv1ytcX6KmxofOM4n9z8WxT09sduOIy1-SLBzc/s1600/IMG_2028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvVgjCyFFEiJ3SacxBr-zGslakZyPa7JUCS6qbWEZQlPqy-8jxWWC8OqyYlvSx0vXwd_lhoEPVfuyqJxwyzMwnygtyHDm5-iQFeugz8Tv1ytcX6KmxofOM4n9z8WxT09sduOIy1-SLBzc/s640/IMG_2028.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">A spectacular spot to enjoy ocean breezes, watch passersby and....</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio8M3X4t8NunZtJWOnjrXkr2e884scETYh_jIJNOwxVq4mlzzQiCMPPx4J0wDN4o2Mao0XcJuLTbbGFcNUY-_joniK4xIyJWg-Y2QFIQfQTKAKeKOkEqMz056LpNC_4zl0pGLTiYIgEvQ/s1600/IMG_2027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio8M3X4t8NunZtJWOnjrXkr2e884scETYh_jIJNOwxVq4mlzzQiCMPPx4J0wDN4o2Mao0XcJuLTbbGFcNUY-_joniK4xIyJWg-Y2QFIQfQTKAKeKOkEqMz056LpNC_4zl0pGLTiYIgEvQ/s640/IMG_2027.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">indulge in a frozen coke and hotdog with cranberry slaw!</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Benches everywhere to enjoy the beautiful gardens and pool views.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNr_Hf4NaDnHySeHvHWRdKl5Xbhbysh0ArcTh6kQvE8Uv_6MI8kyiIX1-Ed_sS_KlY0S0OYYpON2xX9Mh4SNZZXh5rQkWQ7WLkvwBxXrasO9HcFVVgIEamMos8mJaHfbrshDZZSOk2e-Y/s1600/IMG_2002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNr_Hf4NaDnHySeHvHWRdKl5Xbhbysh0ArcTh6kQvE8Uv_6MI8kyiIX1-Ed_sS_KlY0S0OYYpON2xX9Mh4SNZZXh5rQkWQ7WLkvwBxXrasO9HcFVVgIEamMos8mJaHfbrshDZZSOk2e-Y/s640/IMG_2002.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">As well as stylish, comfy chairs to sit and have a cocktail before dinner.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Some meals were a bit more refined: scallops, lobster tail and fresh produce.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-L_kl3ampJgFwnTQ0aIBHuXzr74iEY36X3FeZ2fc7bB60JSKDYzOL4R5XLzSiSWX7tA2kW6os2QJ46c3lUP7ANtNosSpyJ81UCAOVQZCuoi2SWbRkRFPsZaa_MY5KUrQE0Spz7zgEgS8/s1600/IMG_1985.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-L_kl3ampJgFwnTQ0aIBHuXzr74iEY36X3FeZ2fc7bB60JSKDYzOL4R5XLzSiSWX7tA2kW6os2QJ46c3lUP7ANtNosSpyJ81UCAOVQZCuoi2SWbRkRFPsZaa_MY5KUrQE0Spz7zgEgS8/s640/IMG_1985.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">While others were not!!!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">This was waiting for us in our room upon arrival. Very convenient to toss in one's beach bag! </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicP6k-3B-JzESZjs-KiMeLV-x8UiAMkguSQfu411ANqN58DGPHRSPoStB-GZosWXEOKp7oJ1RLVrL8Yg2rynaryp-d0Z04qv5XlSTlO-PSak5-O16ZPDDQ88o-I_5n33oa4pTMTiBEYFI/s1600/IMG_1980.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicP6k-3B-JzESZjs-KiMeLV-x8UiAMkguSQfu411ANqN58DGPHRSPoStB-GZosWXEOKp7oJ1RLVrL8Yg2rynaryp-d0Z04qv5XlSTlO-PSak5-O16ZPDDQ88o-I_5n33oa4pTMTiBEYFI/s640/IMG_1980.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">After sun, sand and surf, we collapsed here.</span> </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGVasZ6ZrY7cx2PqInVBZjxyC8i5MDJiTVUhyphenhyphenZKOmEzD0gWxB3nfxYzu8Krajdo-_xDtUjCvMGP1MRZ4wfHa8isY1Ifsw8EzfXx0MAmF94BFg05u2_IvLWX7EgYyqVzLEMm5Fwt_9lArg/s1600/IMG_2249.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGVasZ6ZrY7cx2PqInVBZjxyC8i5MDJiTVUhyphenhyphenZKOmEzD0gWxB3nfxYzu8Krajdo-_xDtUjCvMGP1MRZ4wfHa8isY1Ifsw8EzfXx0MAmF94BFg05u2_IvLWX7EgYyqVzLEMm5Fwt_9lArg/s640/IMG_2249.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">A view from our seats at the Kennedy Center before the crowds piled in for The Book Of Mormon</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">in August. It was a great show, very funny!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhECXuDrGPSDDZXwyfw9_mG7nSfebC4yl-CgV_Nq2OufyWNdykEYxdDK-JdhFbDW8v-lhuGVVeixEh_uaVS2ogwukj1PgV7cpi7i2_sH2HvOWHQ1jZYcHMMx1VIEpl89albxWsovMtlzro/s1600/IMG_2221.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhECXuDrGPSDDZXwyfw9_mG7nSfebC4yl-CgV_Nq2OufyWNdykEYxdDK-JdhFbDW8v-lhuGVVeixEh_uaVS2ogwukj1PgV7cpi7i2_sH2HvOWHQ1jZYcHMMx1VIEpl89albxWsovMtlzro/s640/IMG_2221.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">I am going to miss the intoxicating scent of my Gardenia topiaries, but am looking forward to the fall season and spending time with my blog friends and readers once again.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Hello again, how was your summer?</span><br />
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Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-41517901347936692312013-05-27T11:18:00.000-04:002013-05-30T14:55:00.078-04:00Happy Memorial Day!It's been more like autumn these past few days in Virginia, this morning was chilly and foggy. But when the sun broke, I grabbed my clippers...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmPO4lU0EcCbj0FhsY7zkW0qwqHD6bYIVpRavFo-_qcZjL3FLUSgjMWmxD4duiyyZesKmGrXoNSOMUOQwF80xAYJPihhDer2HkeWDva-7JSKgMRfVG2EzNDORirqeVsxE80iAiC770uKA/s1600/A&A+white+peony+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmPO4lU0EcCbj0FhsY7zkW0qwqHD6bYIVpRavFo-_qcZjL3FLUSgjMWmxD4duiyyZesKmGrXoNSOMUOQwF80xAYJPihhDer2HkeWDva-7JSKgMRfVG2EzNDORirqeVsxE80iAiC770uKA/s640/A&A+white+peony+1.JPG" width="640" yya="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White peonies, one of the very best things about the month of May!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWEiN4JnP1qrkk_bjsHVJjFehiDXnHwlXZ0nYiMhE1To38qzljs_hhBKQFrDh3vkSDtbKIOA8ujsL73b1vNClL2vmmnhrpa-tWx7U-bgdh4VHdqrTWPtqbJzAuzrGYI6HUhkNAsHGGaic/s1600/A%2526A+peony+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWEiN4JnP1qrkk_bjsHVJjFehiDXnHwlXZ0nYiMhE1To38qzljs_hhBKQFrDh3vkSDtbKIOA8ujsL73b1vNClL2vmmnhrpa-tWx7U-bgdh4VHdqrTWPtqbJzAuzrGYI6HUhkNAsHGGaic/s640/A%2526A+peony+2.JPG" width="424" yya="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Couldn't think of a better way to enjoy my coffee. Seems so peaceful right?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheMiR5qD7IdD1BqjiImHCPtIlE1Gnbp2giSXxMe-9HvOGuW8tU8Q6NJ02Bfrn6g_lxO63EwbkhBdUfiDxvYh_azcbxkT8QDTZNXB0Yw7cKwWdbJHqnEXoP90NPyFqAFjz39dpnB5Q_n0I/s1600/A&A+peony+wdog.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheMiR5qD7IdD1BqjiImHCPtIlE1Gnbp2giSXxMe-9HvOGuW8tU8Q6NJ02Bfrn6g_lxO63EwbkhBdUfiDxvYh_azcbxkT8QDTZNXB0Yw7cKwWdbJHqnEXoP90NPyFqAFjz39dpnB5Q_n0I/s640/A&A+peony+wdog.JPG" width="424" yya="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ah, what you don't see- significant pouting and completely unimpressed with my morning haul.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsXjTEdXdti83G4WybA6cRtIpnT5jN5VLXEUmVQHrCAwNTElyBRbM8Y8lTbd6K7fKEhFWoNLj8Naw6WlkSLAuxgXfg9CRZDhkBmnmLD0docv7u9ITspf8sredCGPN09zK9W-eGrRU4p0M/s1600/A&A+peony+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsXjTEdXdti83G4WybA6cRtIpnT5jN5VLXEUmVQHrCAwNTElyBRbM8Y8lTbd6K7fKEhFWoNLj8Naw6WlkSLAuxgXfg9CRZDhkBmnmLD0docv7u9ITspf8sredCGPN09zK9W-eGrRU4p0M/s640/A&A+peony+3.JPG" width="424" yya="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At least these will be here after I attend to others!</td></tr>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Enjoy Your holiday!</span></strong>
Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-76063947124445017842013-05-07T23:40:00.001-04:002013-05-08T10:51:38.531-04:00Tuesday TipShop at home!!! There could be a collection hiding in the back recesses of cabinets, cupboards, drawers, storage boxes or the attic.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZx8GKjqQ2FzUaxSPcIwBnBTZHVcHZ1aqyl07Jz9oy8XFjhv0e8hHh7HlSsOmNbrsedx6L_bQ-Ch1sfjIxvZt5y5dxR-q-Hdhg0xCu6hyY3k5Yp0-Ezjl74-0Aai5gd7_g_pS7rPqBydQ/s1600/A&A+pocket+watch.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="544" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZx8GKjqQ2FzUaxSPcIwBnBTZHVcHZ1aqyl07Jz9oy8XFjhv0e8hHh7HlSsOmNbrsedx6L_bQ-Ch1sfjIxvZt5y5dxR-q-Hdhg0xCu6hyY3k5Yp0-Ezjl74-0Aai5gd7_g_pS7rPqBydQ/s640/A&A+pocket+watch.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is just one of the pocket watches belonging to my client. The red crocodile wallpaper is from Schumacher and was slated for the powder room, but ended up on a waste can instead! Don't worry, the PR was covered in a goreous paper. </td></tr>
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And such was the case with the project I just completed. The client told me she had no collections. But when we started the process of pulling things out, she remembered something and we went upstairs and she showed me these: <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRiVWCoBdbNCJ_9BMv0z05q_QV4V93wQqdV1TDKGZTxuVt6MsvpFnW9Qinrb-o4m4lUoTrHNWrsV4gutguAzDmcWPQkkrkCc8kAx5YSe1O0ExctnSnO-IjBW6hMx-Zm7iOBTC1jL-XjnE/s1600/A&A+client+pocket+watches.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRiVWCoBdbNCJ_9BMv0z05q_QV4V93wQqdV1TDKGZTxuVt6MsvpFnW9Qinrb-o4m4lUoTrHNWrsV4gutguAzDmcWPQkkrkCc8kAx5YSe1O0ExctnSnO-IjBW6hMx-Zm7iOBTC1jL-XjnE/s640/A&A+client+pocket+watches.JPG" width="616" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The collection of pockets in this old shadow box belonged to the wife's side of the family. <br />
The two on the right were from the husband's side.</td></tr>
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She asked if we could do anything with it? This is the sort of thing that gets me really excited when I'm working with clients. Initially, I wanted to use them as art, since she had just a few pieces and we were practically starting from scratch in that area too. But as things progressed and the rooms came together, I thought a table display was the way to go. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyZ1eh6U9TdfFSSrzmbO4Px0WO0NuSSfbS_LgKWkPM_Sei6GVfiIUWqht5DRWkEFa1UTDRtQtObXt-5exb2GHU11417s28EiLQju2ZYYUEAwxdg8jzuX9_Y-h8TnSb-gMXLbBqNjCJ5cI/s1600/A&A+pocket+watches+polished+and+labeled.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="604" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyZ1eh6U9TdfFSSrzmbO4Px0WO0NuSSfbS_LgKWkPM_Sei6GVfiIUWqht5DRWkEFa1UTDRtQtObXt-5exb2GHU11417s28EiLQju2ZYYUEAwxdg8jzuX9_Y-h8TnSb-gMXLbBqNjCJ5cI/s640/A&A+pocket+watches+polished+and+labeled.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The best part of taking apart the shadow box is that it solved the mystery of who these pocket watches belonged. Someone had taken the time to pen a name with each one, such a lovely gift for the client!</td></tr>
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The client polished all the combined pockets watches from both sides of the family and turned them over to me for a solution. I put them in a simple glass display box lined in green velvet, leftover from chairs that were reupholstered: <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7f8_LRf94Cs6vvvbMiuKzsLxYptTrtnXdg24fGhVfsZjQKjPjCzLQJ5eK3OmEdGLfOXk9v2_Wg4tfJTXNFi3fqsxDmvYw8QPCzQT-tucp57zRUAhAEkPCuEdkttcl55FEz124Sd8sgys/s1600/A&A+pocket+watches+in+new+case.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="544" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7f8_LRf94Cs6vvvbMiuKzsLxYptTrtnXdg24fGhVfsZjQKjPjCzLQJ5eK3OmEdGLfOXk9v2_Wg4tfJTXNFi3fqsxDmvYw8QPCzQT-tucp57zRUAhAEkPCuEdkttcl55FEz124Sd8sgys/s640/A&A+pocket+watches+in+new+case.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I took this from the floor to get the best view.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5pLK_Q2VGe-AcMJnJBHTapJeCrETPGFP1GPzfdFXOCmOD2RjFemAarcUW9qrhAfinllKpQ3oRgrhpB09ELY2rezqHZdQfR1pzX5T6RBGxM2jN3vfKCzE7-9DyyxwpV88FR-pT_EEQ94Q/s1600/A&A+pocket+watches+displayed+on+table.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5pLK_Q2VGe-AcMJnJBHTapJeCrETPGFP1GPzfdFXOCmOD2RjFemAarcUW9qrhAfinllKpQ3oRgrhpB09ELY2rezqHZdQfR1pzX5T6RBGxM2jN3vfKCzE7-9DyyxwpV88FR-pT_EEQ94Q/s640/A&A+pocket+watches+displayed+on+table.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All six watches gathered together for all to enjoy. The photographer loved this idea and said he has pockets watches and might have to copy it- that made me smile. I can't wait to see his photos capturing them!</td></tr>
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After the pocket watch discovery, I asked the client what else she might be "withholding" and it turned out she had these: <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVepY3FV6IjLkkTWNhI5BWELud-odzqUcA5jmIpnUTQ9wamisz4zGiJeG_TfczjJkGcPEcbyGLNEHChtHnN4OouKXurJwnwbiwxr4Wjho-YVXjsnxRhS9mpSlJwgEkJrsGJs3Eni5pgZw/s1600/A&A+jefferson+cups.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="442" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVepY3FV6IjLkkTWNhI5BWELud-odzqUcA5jmIpnUTQ9wamisz4zGiJeG_TfczjJkGcPEcbyGLNEHChtHnN4OouKXurJwnwbiwxr4Wjho-YVXjsnxRhS9mpSlJwgEkJrsGJs3Eni5pgZw/s640/A&A+jefferson+cups.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Things ended up on the buffet when space ran out on the dinning table the day everything got pulled out for our meeting to review accessories.</td></tr>
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Ten silver Jefferson cups, all inscribed with initials or dated to commemorate a special event such as a wedding or birth, packed away in her buffet. They now are prominently displayed in a glass fronted cabinet near the kitchen to be enjoyed everyday! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcDoX2faU-Em3YXYpl4trrXSyNyQti1CHlTIUq_zHvueb47QESDY-dgi2-EEvouiNj4g0kdnKSCPRPUIm1KzH25nqN2ERR0j03YQDMLTRFC0tDUcHGMj5nn-TJioCv74d__oVx6dWTVvU/s1600/A&A+jeff+cups.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="492" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcDoX2faU-Em3YXYpl4trrXSyNyQti1CHlTIUq_zHvueb47QESDY-dgi2-EEvouiNj4g0kdnKSCPRPUIm1KzH25nqN2ERR0j03YQDMLTRFC0tDUcHGMj5nn-TJioCv74d__oVx6dWTVvU/s640/A&A+jeff+cups.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cups are on the upper left. Sorry for the blurry picture, but I helped myself to the bar after the photo shoot- kidding. But I did enjoy a glass of wine with my clients to celebrate their new spaces.</td></tr>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Btw, this is Tuesday Tip #75. It doesn't seem possible!</span></strong>Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-27699826293629541212013-05-06T08:34:00.000-04:002013-05-07T17:17:27.171-04:00Do You Need An Accessories Intervention?I think from time to time most people can benefit from one, unless of course you are a minimalist- then I would hope that the few things on display are extremely interesting, high quality or useful in some way.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4jGQ_TYwEtTSPkizVRIQIgoT8fR8GH8fB1qBYB9KhyphenhyphencuCdHtybnC-qx0iZnykZ1kNayGe1pLnysam1fISvi51hDrP89FW7Cn_ct78o3H8EYyi4ycTH59c9IFMKcVV8TIJTdJmRBPqims/s1600/A&A+dragon+close-up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4jGQ_TYwEtTSPkizVRIQIgoT8fR8GH8fB1qBYB9KhyphenhyphencuCdHtybnC-qx0iZnykZ1kNayGe1pLnysam1fISvi51hDrP89FW7Cn_ct78o3H8EYyi4ycTH59c9IFMKcVV8TIJTdJmRBPqims/s640/A&A+dragon+close-up.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">L'Objet dragon candle in porcelain jar.<br />
Yes, this little guy was pricey, but long after the intoxicating scent is gone<br />
the container can hold anything from jewelry to paperclips to lipsticks!</td></tr>
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Often people fall into a rut and keep buying the same things over and over. I find women tend to buy too many small objects- as if they can't commit! Before they know it, they've amassed a lot of items that they don't even like all that much, serve no purpose and do absolutely nothing to enhance a room!<br />
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This particular client loves the beach and shells, but this wasn't working:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzm13UPPZ9_xwGYeRNVedfhdamkwySqeNeQui7c7qldtxNQtg9lqlmfxqvHS7uF_epQuUeoMB7COjdhzAhNBgsbAY_p7jq0wkQVq-lK_xOqYFpvJKzXEO18ambGldV8UUf-n70g9WSFVE/s1600/A%2526A+intervention.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzm13UPPZ9_xwGYeRNVedfhdamkwySqeNeQui7c7qldtxNQtg9lqlmfxqvHS7uF_epQuUeoMB7COjdhzAhNBgsbAY_p7jq0wkQVq-lK_xOqYFpvJKzXEO18ambGldV8UUf-n70g9WSFVE/s640/A%2526A+intervention.JPG" width="476" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was in the kitchen after the reno, but before the backsplash went in. A real head scratcher.<br />
Uh...we need an intervention!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrNXqS9rUh93QkuJQmYuB9HjRgf029OdV41cfihtqN3h7-KcsS044jWyrJGhN01nWaSPna8hfF5Y1m5sInWGwCukXBXIxCO8-IsDzeoqdaU_m0_bivV_GLPcVtd30F1QSsDV3DG2inzBk/s1600/A&A+kitchen+window.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrNXqS9rUh93QkuJQmYuB9HjRgf029OdV41cfihtqN3h7-KcsS044jWyrJGhN01nWaSPna8hfF5Y1m5sInWGwCukXBXIxCO8-IsDzeoqdaU_m0_bivV_GLPcVtd30F1QSsDV3DG2inzBk/s640/A&A+kitchen+window.JPG" width="444" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was added instead. And her love of shells? Incorporated in more sophisticated ways.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipiqfjDSmlg6YV6Wmd4Qh3eGgULG70oSJCpVxMr4lwWht3fl78PD7wkkn_mCK_qsNWp688GPBmOIAxynK4QFFpB4xSQ3zuIxi8UHvJT8WMb6806Rd_GwGVorKleWA5uTZcLN4-iHcbkJk/s1600/A&A+clear+out+the+cabinets.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="466" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipiqfjDSmlg6YV6Wmd4Qh3eGgULG70oSJCpVxMr4lwWht3fl78PD7wkkn_mCK_qsNWp688GPBmOIAxynK4QFFpB4xSQ3zuIxi8UHvJT8WMb6806Rd_GwGVorKleWA5uTZcLN4-iHcbkJk/s640/A&A+clear+out+the+cabinets.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first step of an intervention is to shop at home! Initially, clients always dread this process. I have them pull everything out of everywhere. I even ask if I can shop their other rooms just in case they missed something. Afterwards, they feel always feel more organized and have a much easier time of getting rid of clutter and unnecessary objects.</td></tr>
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Yes, we've all heard it many times before- accessories are the last layer, personalize the space, tell a story etc, etc, etc. But, they can also bring a room down just as easily as they can elevate one. That's why an intervention is so often necessary. Survey the goods, then hand select the best and most useful items.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgGolX-Jr4d-D8IV-J_dH2PcGTxnsp0DV52BTHjpM4xwibySrHGBwaUDDiKdb7arVg-VzB3SOLE3Bf9CHETpHCJtRECD4UCMqPNLHkOtskKksnLflWrUZ39fNUSUhZx4r7MMXaZv3gz-Y/s1600/A&A+glass-small+objects.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgGolX-Jr4d-D8IV-J_dH2PcGTxnsp0DV52BTHjpM4xwibySrHGBwaUDDiKdb7arVg-VzB3SOLE3Bf9CHETpHCJtRECD4UCMqPNLHkOtskKksnLflWrUZ39fNUSUhZx4r7MMXaZv3gz-Y/s640/A&A+glass-small+objects.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Once everything is out in view, I group the like items together- that way I can tell very quickly what there is to use and what problem areas may be present. Can you spot them?<br />
This client had too many glass items, too many small objects, a lot of shiny items and no flower vases.<br />
We need an intervention!!!</td></tr>
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I don't like buying things for my clients just to fill a void. I always prefer to use what a client has, add what they need and let those little voids fill themselves up naturally over time or add fresh flowers or plants. So often, it's really just a matter of using things you already have in a new way or by placing it in a different room. From the items gathered above, here are a few of the ways I used them around her house:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV2k1ZSFU8t1KtL8i9RaspK6wj4bbaJzrHJBRDIhEVWM8HYoEGrq3mHSTBn3AFNmgCRfk64V1RYeXGLWthaHlppCG6mFpEwqJ8PEdbuMJC4dm174vlOkqwREvPbuBv2m0yV1rditG_GS8/s1600/A%2526A+shell+orb.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV2k1ZSFU8t1KtL8i9RaspK6wj4bbaJzrHJBRDIhEVWM8HYoEGrq3mHSTBn3AFNmgCRfk64V1RYeXGLWthaHlppCG6mFpEwqJ8PEdbuMJC4dm174vlOkqwREvPbuBv2m0yV1rditG_GS8/s640/A%2526A+shell+orb.JPG" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The client already owned these beautiful hurricanes. The shell orbs were found in a new local shop and the client loved them, but worried about their periwinkle color. My response, don't worry about the color and let's buy them- she never expected me to use them in her hurricanes! They are now on the dining room table and one of her favorites things.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-8XL6LE9lw-Xg5Lo4pkf7-4ZqcnvQJth9ixy2HssEJRXwwt9NA-sVTryLvxjiUsfYf6I9PzOD-QCnBfjETikGzDQyeRZpj3j0sqcdWypG5PwPXSpYCSmgJo4V8JBDGBogoKDpRjrsFKU/s1600/A&A+mermaid+bowl.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-8XL6LE9lw-Xg5Lo4pkf7-4ZqcnvQJth9ixy2HssEJRXwwt9NA-sVTryLvxjiUsfYf6I9PzOD-QCnBfjETikGzDQyeRZpj3j0sqcdWypG5PwPXSpYCSmgJo4V8JBDGBogoKDpRjrsFKU/s640/A&A+mermaid+bowl.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I purchased this bowl for the client and dubbed it the mermaid bowl as a reference to the beach.<br />
The shell and twig were the clients and are made of graphite.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBwD6izH8aj70Suhb2H-rbOg0h5MY1lGUKT3klFVJ2R2L9BP8NOfF1co786o1i6GO-nm6M1GeFirBr938EbOKWqyKQqQf0MXU_wY6ZlQaMRvvMVRj3dxp3AeUNaeW0apBg0Ih6vMy5xCY/s1600/A%2526A+brass+candlesticks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBwD6izH8aj70Suhb2H-rbOg0h5MY1lGUKT3klFVJ2R2L9BP8NOfF1co786o1i6GO-nm6M1GeFirBr938EbOKWqyKQqQf0MXU_wY6ZlQaMRvvMVRj3dxp3AeUNaeW0apBg0Ih6vMy5xCY/s640/A%2526A+brass+candlesticks.JPG" width="354" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The client's brass candlesticks, that she didn't previously care for, now<br />
look so pretty with their newly added unusual green pattern tapers.</td></tr>
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Sometimes, a different arrangement is all that's needed to acquire a new found appreciation of things you already own and such was the case with with Abe. He once belonged to the client's father and got moved from room to room. He now sits, with dignity, on a library table. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKxnZE0WGymp-PEH-IxQYyxTngnnidD2IU2SRSxuUw-Kqgxpt6BZZ0qGy6HGVRc1TneA7HofCzBp3RzAD2lC0rbXJzrabyaMK7NsEqxy31Xd7wftsn7s_L-idqa006Gka4ylif3Uafvv4/s1600/A%2526A+library+table.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="496" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKxnZE0WGymp-PEH-IxQYyxTngnnidD2IU2SRSxuUw-Kqgxpt6BZZ0qGy6HGVRc1TneA7HofCzBp3RzAD2lC0rbXJzrabyaMK7NsEqxy31Xd7wftsn7s_L-idqa006Gka4ylif3Uafvv4/s640/A%2526A+library+table.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Lincoln bust now resides on the library table, with old keys found in the bottom of a drawer. <br />
The brass julep cup and green bowl are new. They both serve a purpose, one holds matches the other flowers!</td></tr>
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But, I'm no snob when it comes to accessories and I'll shop anywhere from Target to antique shops! However, I still keep my design <a href="http://www.acanthusandacorn.blogspot.com/2012/04/what-are-your-design-pet-peeves.html">peeves</a> in mind, no matter what!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqKr8zpqWtp73xrQDoch8CRNkqqq5vt52SmqZ_HfW_iSwtep3iuUvhQY64x9UVY5NwcOm-Y4ZoyqjHoDxEVR6-FqpWh1gACtNjeUsyay7qdEAcyNqQxeOSyuFTx6dL4f3a8SJWncnNHts/s1600/A%2526A+high-low+accessories.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqKr8zpqWtp73xrQDoch8CRNkqqq5vt52SmqZ_HfW_iSwtep3iuUvhQY64x9UVY5NwcOm-Y4ZoyqjHoDxEVR6-FqpWh1gACtNjeUsyay7qdEAcyNqQxeOSyuFTx6dL4f3a8SJWncnNHts/s640/A%2526A+high-low+accessories.JPG" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I think it's perfectly fine to pair a pricey porcelain candle jar with an inexpensive faux shagreen <br />
box from Target on a Swedish wood table!</td></tr>
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And when I do shop, I select each item with a specific client in mind and hope that it serves a function whether it's the soft glow of a candle in a wonderful scent, an attractive magnifying glass to read the fine print, a handsome box to stash all the remotes, a vase for flowers, or a pretty pencil cup.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3LKmc7acdhAN8vLhw_ZAALWo5GNSGA7LFoaleQcBedqul6Fe0fD24pmGE3PS28zrbDDKWzlkheRvsagT0qHKePVNNm6MzEU2BA7gxs1fpXPJ0XPE9P3IMYBlT81bmSCMrHBD4Ma9ymrM/s1600/A%2526A+tray+with+antler+and+brass+julep.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3LKmc7acdhAN8vLhw_ZAALWo5GNSGA7LFoaleQcBedqul6Fe0fD24pmGE3PS28zrbDDKWzlkheRvsagT0qHKePVNNm6MzEU2BA7gxs1fpXPJ0XPE9P3IMYBlT81bmSCMrHBD4Ma9ymrM/s640/A%2526A+tray+with+antler+and+brass+julep.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The tray and brass julep cup are new, the antler was found by the client's son<br />
and the glass orb/paperweight I shopped from the clients office!</td></tr>
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It's rare that I ever buy exact the same accessory for different clients. It has to be something pretty fabulous and flexible for me to buy multiples. <br />
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And, such was the case with Target's Nate Berkus <a href="http://www.acanthusandacorn.blogspot.com/2012/11/clients-master-bedroom-makeover.html">faux shagreen</a> storage box and the brass julep cups from my bloggy friend, <a href="http://www.thezhush.blogspot.com/">Sue</a>, owner of the fabulous online store <a href="http://www.zhush.com/">zhush.com</a>!<br />
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Tomorrow's Tuesday tip will show a few ways of incorporating what client's already own into beautifully displayed collections!Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-22989554578997191552013-05-02T10:05:00.004-04:002013-05-07T16:13:02.186-04:00Please Say Hello To My New Design Assistant, D.D.Hi everyone, this is my new design assistant D.D. First name Dammit, last name Doll. She was introduced to me yesterday by a client. My most challenging client- ever. We just wrapped a 14 month project last week.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisFmwB00_IPXqVgjKfdno49L91u5hvjF5PI07a3CG6J-6NmwcMhH57JyRq8bTffGcNhHhYploEjTaxj42J6CwyZTSGbOtx4TIEFFh8H0cbtxkDNf72i8Z-DgOJxAH3EOY7a7ycZELCR1k/s1600/D.D.+A&A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" lua="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisFmwB00_IPXqVgjKfdno49L91u5hvjF5PI07a3CG6J-6NmwcMhH57JyRq8bTffGcNhHhYploEjTaxj42J6CwyZTSGbOtx4TIEFFh8H0cbtxkDNf72i8Z-DgOJxAH3EOY7a7ycZELCR1k/s640/D.D.+A&A.JPG" width="464" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is D.D. and according to her resume, <br />
she is willing to take anything me or my clients can dish out!</td></tr>
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There were head banging days. There were days when I wanted to pull my hair out- and the client's too! I have never worked harder and longer on any project. But, I'm happy to say all has ended well and the results are really beautiful, the clients are thrilled and I am so proud of the work.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOlhwMlVjFgtbLNKmP3o-VOIhcS-gfssmv1Tmm-7bfEUkcOWxHSSZ88ZMRVfuzEbGHfA4eHc39NXUTgFzGdx3_v55xRlWItS1ufq6IyKpst_2uAZQAGZrw01LbAsp3XXcQgMSHXxvL4ts/s1600/A&A+flowers+for+install.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" lua="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOlhwMlVjFgtbLNKmP3o-VOIhcS-gfssmv1Tmm-7bfEUkcOWxHSSZ88ZMRVfuzEbGHfA4eHc39NXUTgFzGdx3_v55xRlWItS1ufq6IyKpst_2uAZQAGZrw01LbAsp3XXcQgMSHXxvL4ts/s640/A&A+flowers+for+install.JPG" width="450" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flowers for the photo shoot.</td></tr>
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I'm still exhaused from the 3 day installation and photo shoot, but look forward to sharing some photos with you all soon and to getting back in the saddle with blogging. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4qx0CU_qGt4UnAuY6owoMOG69Vc7PNUc-nYSQbzz4BBgfDLj5BwiW2r6tTK7TiZKSO3q3EdBqyzN99pP1OnyxyWK9hJNio-gk3LnEGPkObSVrXXTr0rmJy7r5whrCUKhylaxXqdaudRY/s1600/A&A+equipment+for+photo+shoot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" lua="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4qx0CU_qGt4UnAuY6owoMOG69Vc7PNUc-nYSQbzz4BBgfDLj5BwiW2r6tTK7TiZKSO3q3EdBqyzN99pP1OnyxyWK9hJNio-gk3LnEGPkObSVrXXTr0rmJy7r5whrCUKhylaxXqdaudRY/s640/A&A+equipment+for+photo+shoot.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So much photography equipment! Sorry for the blurry picture, it's from my i-phone.<br />
This is the back of one of the sofas with it's beautiful velvet band and nailhead detail.</td></tr>
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On a side note, I wanted to pass along a huge thank you to everyone who commented on the Blogger SPAM issues from the previous post- I think everyone's candidness was so beneficial to all, especially me!<br />
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<br />Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-16271662110139218682013-04-05T08:46:00.001-04:002013-05-07T16:13:43.521-04:00Help! What to do about...I'm drowning in SPAM. With my blog postings more infrequent, it seems the the amount of SPAM is on the rise. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuTjAQBv-ruuYdOGhA4U55b8VUsJ9_4TJ7QEuwmLKkIZL1NM6FoS1uMUUdcHV4hLazhK3vHD8mAzBkh1QBjB-FrRbaT6cv-1o0EfSmruSILQ2DRIuEwabj5YtdYS3NOFUVbrn4WVUN1EQ/s1600/spam+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" mta="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuTjAQBv-ruuYdOGhA4U55b8VUsJ9_4TJ7QEuwmLKkIZL1NM6FoS1uMUUdcHV4hLazhK3vHD8mAzBkh1QBjB-FrRbaT6cv-1o0EfSmruSILQ2DRIuEwabj5YtdYS3NOFUVbrn4WVUN1EQ/s320/spam+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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My first year of blogging, a fellow blogger told me to put comments on a 3 day moderation cycle. Since I allow anonymous comments, this worked like a charm, until lately.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9e-PwjBOC0zw3UyBquMhxdgqKtS-AlOSmBei1dSYyfuqLjkpuOVm7WbnLVwA0K7Y_27wRs79yjAOxMTWjmSwHnwlUm5i3fnBApBt4sBQEcWdkJRR66Sur1VRDzRM2XUryx1NrhsGjQlQ/s1600/spam+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" mta="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9e-PwjBOC0zw3UyBquMhxdgqKtS-AlOSmBei1dSYyfuqLjkpuOVm7WbnLVwA0K7Y_27wRs79yjAOxMTWjmSwHnwlUm5i3fnBApBt4sBQEcWdkJRR66Sur1VRDzRM2XUryx1NrhsGjQlQ/s640/spam+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now I get so much SPAM dumped in my in box everyday. It can be as many as 70 comments a week to the point unless I recognize the name, I usually have no choice but to delete it from my blog and my email. As a result, I've put some emails in the SPAM folder that were important. Oh, there's lots of variety to choose from, much of it down right weird and creepy. Unfortunately, I've dumped some legitimate emails- and for that, I apologize!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv9ENhxJbC07dgfgfrDW8wj2A4JDCftiV6mn0qTwO9_RwBd_h_UpXuJv9Ezt-QIm8F0v2qCDOqqCHo9SBCq_tik108eB5yCwuh0RP6lyOBoeOGic9Y8AmkDiQnLJWCbwj6UIAamQ_Olcs/s1600/spam+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" mta="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv9ENhxJbC07dgfgfrDW8wj2A4JDCftiV6mn0qTwO9_RwBd_h_UpXuJv9Ezt-QIm8F0v2qCDOqqCHo9SBCq_tik108eB5yCwuh0RP6lyOBoeOGic9Y8AmkDiQnLJWCbwj6UIAamQ_Olcs/s640/spam+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
So do I stop taking anonymous comments, moderate comments daily, or add the word verification- which I know drives everyone nuts, me included? I need some advice and are any of you experiencing the same thing? <br />
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<strong><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">HELP!!!</span></strong>Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-40528928205178174082013-03-31T09:45:00.002-04:002013-05-07T16:14:23.057-04:00Happy Easter!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Y-6hti7Os5Cs4rKfWZBjNTFpNJv7lq-r8O2xxF5Al_MTneqgphtNs2JRRS6HnsF_g8n5tkkgaZlvq4325-YIH4Ote5qqC8GkG-iTiTKyxNdY5hNM-_8WKJatS_fUPsRQ3aORwUHtZ0c/s1600/A&A+eggs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Y-6hti7Os5Cs4rKfWZBjNTFpNJv7lq-r8O2xxF5Al_MTneqgphtNs2JRRS6HnsF_g8n5tkkgaZlvq4325-YIH4Ote5qqC8GkG-iTiTKyxNdY5hNM-_8WKJatS_fUPsRQ3aORwUHtZ0c/s640/A&A+eggs.JPG" usa="true" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the mantle: alabaster eggs in pewter egg cups. The bunny is cement and cast from a chocolate mold!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnTDuRzyzCddusDHztlIpkqpT_HKAdvOuP56bTSnzIggux7e_0a4UOh2kdgzrvxzKLMD0_b3kOBeLTpSCr0tPPUh_aTz6Fa3Ef8HyLnc1tFglMvQd9Vsu4FV3UbLIItB0cexnGWL_hnaQ/s1600/A%2526A+bunny+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnTDuRzyzCddusDHztlIpkqpT_HKAdvOuP56bTSnzIggux7e_0a4UOh2kdgzrvxzKLMD0_b3kOBeLTpSCr0tPPUh_aTz6Fa3Ef8HyLnc1tFglMvQd9Vsu4FV3UbLIItB0cexnGWL_hnaQ/s640/A%2526A+bunny+1.JPG" usa="true" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eggs and bunnies- essential Easter decor! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjil0HdguI1Vh7BRpDnJz3HBmjaku-3YKN2QponJSLCdgdwBAGZngJZDwcvGI_YsiwE4lxW_eDdJ26cQ8DWT_71deVlmBCt6CMM_Z373TumZPZY1bVCnE7JMXh-FmR0HHMTjoH65hbDVkU/s1600/A&A+bunny+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="520" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjil0HdguI1Vh7BRpDnJz3HBmjaku-3YKN2QponJSLCdgdwBAGZngJZDwcvGI_YsiwE4lxW_eDdJ26cQ8DWT_71deVlmBCt6CMM_Z373TumZPZY1bVCnE7JMXh-FmR0HHMTjoH65hbDVkU/s640/A&A+bunny+2.JPG" usa="true" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This pewter bunny was found at an antiques show years ago.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-NA7d8A1cm_sNUHDJ_HVfTxWEIsaF5JSSgNb3yuC-MBd85m1WbeRyQegWQwTTqDXcWfVDorl8MuZD3M4WGBPV8Y1S1mKlYq8C7yFR4DFQBCrz6g-q5VYwh2cWZYnzcTFxWP0yu5jvfLs/s1600/A%2526A+Easter+foyer.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-NA7d8A1cm_sNUHDJ_HVfTxWEIsaF5JSSgNb3yuC-MBd85m1WbeRyQegWQwTTqDXcWfVDorl8MuZD3M4WGBPV8Y1S1mKlYq8C7yFR4DFQBCrz6g-q5VYwh2cWZYnzcTFxWP0yu5jvfLs/s640/A%2526A+Easter+foyer.JPG" usa="true" width="490" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> On the foyer table: miniature orange roses- a bit unconventional for Easter, but why not?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJXNd5BNRzKlPVmd7qAYGhbNLYOtaUMkH0xXuYff89Oj_68T-zkZWS2gJC9CThdhc-0mXGr-bhLebtTJCi74B9nhB7UOws4FfqdKLJtR4paPfld5QERA6I-kLMwy8eGrbMoRFna14J_Uo/s1600/A%2526A+breakfast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJXNd5BNRzKlPVmd7qAYGhbNLYOtaUMkH0xXuYff89Oj_68T-zkZWS2gJC9CThdhc-0mXGr-bhLebtTJCi74B9nhB7UOws4FfqdKLJtR4paPfld5QERA6I-kLMwy8eGrbMoRFna14J_Uo/s640/A%2526A+breakfast.jpg" usa="true" width="640" /></a></div>
A quick picture from my i-phone before we sat down to early breakfast of strata, potato latkes, blackberry muffins, fresh berries and of course candy! It seems it was so early I didn't press the napkins or even get the flatware quite right?<br />
Better get another pot of coffee going.... <br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">HAPPY EASTER!!!</span></td></tr>
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Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-31808361103779263332013-03-15T08:00:00.002-04:002013-05-07T16:15:20.567-04:00Gushing Over Green! While I normally don't care what the " in" color is for any given year, I must admit to being quite smitten, once again, with emerald green. I'm sure there has already been a deluge of posts done about the "color of the year", but since life and work has kept me away from blogging, I just couldn't resist. If for no other reason than to be able to refer back to these gorgeous images often!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUnSHqDCHvY9SqjjzNQFPpWBkP3tZ_lAlpan-bWCTDoEwgifgh7-Jfvo9WGpjOPBfJHzaVxFCwQZZ-N9lg-XpXrMe1sKjv4lhptLebJeoJvaKxRo6KbXo1vTJ-lQZX3ePQdGLJqqzozc8/s1600/Green+Wallpaper+(26).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" oea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUnSHqDCHvY9SqjjzNQFPpWBkP3tZ_lAlpan-bWCTDoEwgifgh7-Jfvo9WGpjOPBfJHzaVxFCwQZZ-N9lg-XpXrMe1sKjv4lhptLebJeoJvaKxRo6KbXo1vTJ-lQZX3ePQdGLJqqzozc8/s640/Green+Wallpaper+(26).jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
When I was about 8 years old I was given an emerald green long robe that looked like velvet, though I am quite certain wasn't. It had a row of gold buttons with green satin loop fasteners that went half way down the front- much like the buttons often found on the back of a wedding dress. It was a total pain to pull the robe over my head and fasten each button, and the static electricity that ensued was a sight to behold on my very long hair, but I loved that robe. It was the first time I can recall feeling glamorous. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Iqj241l5jeI3G9-UkBTWp-uwrXs6ExrgDnToS7xofz39_iOX8RnDIDywmrWaehC6ExvX0yxQfcxT67qM7GTJO_Q_rJWCb3KgQFeQ5dn7_YQhf6gMHDjJs1wOtT6pFEjb0EC207vlw90/s1600/Ralph+Lauren+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" oea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Iqj241l5jeI3G9-UkBTWp-uwrXs6ExrgDnToS7xofz39_iOX8RnDIDywmrWaehC6ExvX0yxQfcxT67qM7GTJO_Q_rJWCb3KgQFeQ5dn7_YQhf6gMHDjJs1wOtT6pFEjb0EC207vlw90/s640/Ralph+Lauren+2011.jpg" width="284" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This dress by Ralph Lauren and is very similar in style to a dress I wore to a high school Winter Ball. Of course the neckline was not plunging and it was definitely not satin! Mine had a matching shrug (only it wasn't called that in the 70's?) with bell sleeves with a little lettuce ruffle. This would be the glamorous grown-up version.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKvckxcQ_hrHe8XlG0paEMDJnLCXbSfsLP8bRSsuT2tBrKA1YuQ4bya3i-qzPiNpRtFAEqk_NxjQ8VZx5MgOAVQf-9J0ICpK94Q0v5gsb4Uh7RDUhxDKqewSu_xCrtdnQ4A13Cbo1mJX0/s1600/A&A+christies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="550" oea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKvckxcQ_hrHe8XlG0paEMDJnLCXbSfsLP8bRSsuT2tBrKA1YuQ4bya3i-qzPiNpRtFAEqk_NxjQ8VZx5MgOAVQf-9J0ICpK94Q0v5gsb4Uh7RDUhxDKqewSu_xCrtdnQ4A13Cbo1mJX0/s640/A&A+christies.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These earrings, from Christies, are among the most beautiful earrings I have ever seen!<br />
I would wear these with the Ralph Lauren dress.</td></tr>
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Occasionally I will meet someone who says they don't like green! It always takes me by surprise that anyone can dislike a color so prominent in nature? I think so often it's more about a particular shade of green. But if it so happens you're having a little emerald envy, like me, here's a sampling of my fantasy shopping!<br />
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Jump in, it's going to be a beautiful ride...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWwyxklcnBhhwSkbVtWHMQUQYsDcvsF_hDl87QQaR7Q1-uXsDct1xGO7MbUiFw_S1FGaphIsY5XMMR1x1OhzRrsxR61wARhJebwwbeBINgJvYwb360mErQ3AGVhp0SgraFkvsfQq5qXP0/s1600/green+porsche.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="504" oea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWwyxklcnBhhwSkbVtWHMQUQYsDcvsF_hDl87QQaR7Q1-uXsDct1xGO7MbUiFw_S1FGaphIsY5XMMR1x1OhzRrsxR61wARhJebwwbeBINgJvYwb360mErQ3AGVhp0SgraFkvsfQq5qXP0/s640/green+porsche.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm not a big sports car enthusiest, but the color could persuade me otherwise. However, a green SUV would make me dance a little jig- putting it on the list for my next one!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitFWk8gmhv7KXUj2eGEWDdZv2jPsQWpTh4GqB5edKbJ9xzfx2XzcAwDnrfd58bInTbpbvfZS_o1ZxvoVtlm-sF0eYGcfIZu_D-c0J6TvCdg18kWXn9lKkIo7Hm1rD9flB1A_CU3G-sjNk/s1600/A%2526A+green+barn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" oea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitFWk8gmhv7KXUj2eGEWDdZv2jPsQWpTh4GqB5edKbJ9xzfx2XzcAwDnrfd58bInTbpbvfZS_o1ZxvoVtlm-sF0eYGcfIZu_D-c0J6TvCdg18kWXn9lKkIo7Hm1rD9flB1A_CU3G-sjNk/s640/A%2526A+green+barn.jpg" width="510" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm am obsessed with green barns now and could devote an entire post to them!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixgLjMA90TKFQEs_sx76XLItins7-v7zscf0fYy-lInSgsGwPMOTiwrbQveRqFXL6X253R4MfhiJdtYkfeminxZ8TWfkmF6axIFICUjl9fG6y44bcvYQSNh_zJW4PL6rbFMzftOiHvm5c/s1600/A%2526A+ebay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" oea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixgLjMA90TKFQEs_sx76XLItins7-v7zscf0fYy-lInSgsGwPMOTiwrbQveRqFXL6X253R4MfhiJdtYkfeminxZ8TWfkmF6axIFICUjl9fG6y44bcvYQSNh_zJW4PL6rbFMzftOiHvm5c/s640/A%2526A+ebay.jpg" width="388" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">E-bay find- OZ for your tabletop!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX4GZ-lLN88YJ9pjw4-d-XvHb27mbo9hAsBeGz8ZoFfCvKfDslCShaF-atRKKLuNKdSxin_YO2Z9eWD7cnUwKXNNYVkNvSVmGFIsU44D8M7JLnCIYo5eEYQKRHsT-ZoEfFXd_7LstKhRU/s1600/A%2526A+wsh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" oea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX4GZ-lLN88YJ9pjw4-d-XvHb27mbo9hAsBeGz8ZoFfCvKfDslCShaF-atRKKLuNKdSxin_YO2Z9eWD7cnUwKXNNYVkNvSVmGFIsU44D8M7JLnCIYo5eEYQKRHsT-ZoEfFXd_7LstKhRU/s640/A%2526A+wsh.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Williams-Sonoma Home. The little green faux shagreen box now sits on a table at my house!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Actress Kate Bosworth. Dress designer unknown.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdZV0tD-5qGprDBWlfKqK4MeZWh5YysYou8FwsaEGtOivoQVpIjJ0JJBxWuKcvmqehjsLxHZ-YFVcPNz-u-MApOufB-zkm8tK4r9dzWnE8O7rxAab1u1pwMlR-9O5HIi4XGRb4cgqTw3Q/s1600/A&A+emerald+ring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="187" oea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdZV0tD-5qGprDBWlfKqK4MeZWh5YysYou8FwsaEGtOivoQVpIjJ0JJBxWuKcvmqehjsLxHZ-YFVcPNz-u-MApOufB-zkm8tK4r9dzWnE8O7rxAab1u1pwMlR-9O5HIi4XGRb4cgqTw3Q/s200/A&A+emerald+ring.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An emerald cut emerald, doesn't every woman want one?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9501bOykEeZYV0O8LE2z1wpFYHHFk5gzKW4tbR1cZ-IiUUZ5IScUnNELYfbolurj4e3B41-uTEdWMiAQPj_ojAhDgexAG00-h9bN237IDi9lL5YsxcJ8l-Zcpdl-S8wTyt8LCQwI-Kn8/s1600/A%2526A+green+tile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="494" oea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9501bOykEeZYV0O8LE2z1wpFYHHFk5gzKW4tbR1cZ-IiUUZ5IScUnNELYfbolurj4e3B41-uTEdWMiAQPj_ojAhDgexAG00-h9bN237IDi9lL5YsxcJ8l-Zcpdl-S8wTyt8LCQwI-Kn8/s640/A%2526A+green+tile.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kelly Wearstler. In real life I could only handle one wall of this tile.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBiR7SXI9_KcTFSOXr8ggOOP8NiIEg5NZSQrMxfM5wPeEgxGJwnLYswPZX-khW8x06vwuAja9_OTF-zLAamHt6jKIi-KCvBRpoVCpn1bs6wSMdbmnezlBkamCltyvvGsi3QWAoX1A37AE/s1600/A%2526A+green+bedroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="552" oea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBiR7SXI9_KcTFSOXr8ggOOP8NiIEg5NZSQrMxfM5wPeEgxGJwnLYswPZX-khW8x06vwuAja9_OTF-zLAamHt6jKIi-KCvBRpoVCpn1bs6wSMdbmnezlBkamCltyvvGsi3QWAoX1A37AE/s640/A%2526A+green+bedroom.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I've had this saved for so long- anyone know who to give design credit?</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not exactly in the emerald category, but I think I could make it work!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh22Ckf_aYO6kfwU3lUg67mVOUZ6v4YC6_t1iSxLBVVEv1oLJ-ZDGTuIZpGbndAeUYRMX3I7887jS7LIBtvYgf8i9FuT6Vg7gvBIFGWL09MsNUIahpw2N0XRpJd6uVIm_MkPjcZ9SeGof4/s1600/A%2526A+tory+burch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" oea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh22Ckf_aYO6kfwU3lUg67mVOUZ6v4YC6_t1iSxLBVVEv1oLJ-ZDGTuIZpGbndAeUYRMX3I7887jS7LIBtvYgf8i9FuT6Vg7gvBIFGWL09MsNUIahpw2N0XRpJd6uVIm_MkPjcZ9SeGof4/s640/A%2526A+tory+burch.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tory Burch. I think I will always be in love with her living room, especially the upholstered walls!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beacon Hill</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheV6-T-Tci9Gx2DcJaf3HlZ3hTcbEVHM3m9WbBWsEwYrWBsuagP3DaW-gDwxQDMZI-Y4d_iMrsxyuj0ldZFJVO4ok317rq7lLhdg0gG18fS4eY9jVW1BObHe3bLHbzwOEAPR5z-wfRdWI/s1600/Frank+Webb+Dining-Room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" oea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheV6-T-Tci9Gx2DcJaf3HlZ3hTcbEVHM3m9WbBWsEwYrWBsuagP3DaW-gDwxQDMZI-Y4d_iMrsxyuj0ldZFJVO4ok317rq7lLhdg0gG18fS4eY9jVW1BObHe3bLHbzwOEAPR5z-wfRdWI/s640/Frank+Webb+Dining-Room.jpg" width="496" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Frank Webb</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvRhQIDFUQNZMCSdoGjaVlOCMX5Ihryk3EviOt5FXv7KlDrxg1TzSPimM7rMwdqer08jMTOol7kwColvPpoq2IbdhZtp3AJ7kT9xD7sTtcd6M8OuPH_IdNxMuvdmEeSTjocpv4EZuNLug/s1600/A%2526A+branch+console.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="348" oea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvRhQIDFUQNZMCSdoGjaVlOCMX5Ihryk3EviOt5FXv7KlDrxg1TzSPimM7rMwdqer08jMTOol7kwColvPpoq2IbdhZtp3AJ7kT9xD7sTtcd6M8OuPH_IdNxMuvdmEeSTjocpv4EZuNLug/s640/A%2526A+branch+console.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I really, really want this console. More than the Porsche-way more!<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Oh, and Happy St. Patrick's Day too!</span></td></tr>
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Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-86384196710539748502013-02-14T07:45:00.000-05:002013-05-07T16:15:55.355-04:00Heartfelt<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1bjddwhed4t331QQ6zu4Fx1UZJgh_SswF4hEYj8LLt_8OTzKgm6DT-gGDp5R-UX6ds9Ti0uD9CFDuXiL4uL228xqY0qCBF88UcLnv7D7Vke4jR5ronHVpwzBuYNbCXBgrkkUal-Rx4Po/s1600/A%2526A+thanks.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1bjddwhed4t331QQ6zu4Fx1UZJgh_SswF4hEYj8LLt_8OTzKgm6DT-gGDp5R-UX6ds9Ti0uD9CFDuXiL4uL228xqY0qCBF88UcLnv7D7Vke4jR5ronHVpwzBuYNbCXBgrkkUal-Rx4Po/s640/A%2526A+thanks.png" uea="true" width="470" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A heartfelt thank you for reading A&A.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Happy Valentine's Day!!!</span></td></tr>
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Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-43207537150699173022013-02-12T20:08:00.004-05:002013-05-08T07:02:27.426-04:00Tuesday TipWho doesn't love a box of fine chocolate's for Valentine's Day, but there are plenty of less expensive ways to say I love you... <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfhA6kERsKRLXjO-p_0McLt5e3HW8Q5H2kLbd8yJOEY9wjcjrI3cIlgmhvQZpgikB7KZbFSQztp1lvNSq59QuzfgJZ5cu0LtHHKs6UPueMu1Nnr-BpyNOun615JGfmWedu5aEYSsd7F5g/s1600/A&A+heart+brownie.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfhA6kERsKRLXjO-p_0McLt5e3HW8Q5H2kLbd8yJOEY9wjcjrI3cIlgmhvQZpgikB7KZbFSQztp1lvNSq59QuzfgJZ5cu0LtHHKs6UPueMu1Nnr-BpyNOun615JGfmWedu5aEYSsd7F5g/s640/A&A+heart+brownie.JPG" uea="true" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whip up a batch of brownies then cut them out with a heart shaped cookie cutter. Especially fun for kids- of all ages!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ5-cCKzVEv_I-PEtWjDiFeWzXzrU8nT15jbHCIA1v6hnCQ6S_yKxXibc6VnwckX3Iek7oX49boyWW7v6csgTU3RR2MqLrpGVcfjLTnWiouRR5dRmrK7Mia_b18J2IxLAWHTelLQAsB_A/s1600/A&A+reeses+brownie.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="572" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ5-cCKzVEv_I-PEtWjDiFeWzXzrU8nT15jbHCIA1v6hnCQ6S_yKxXibc6VnwckX3Iek7oX49boyWW7v6csgTU3RR2MqLrpGVcfjLTnWiouRR5dRmrK7Mia_b18J2IxLAWHTelLQAsB_A/s640/A&A+reeses+brownie.JPG" uea="true" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maybe your loved one would like a little peanut butter (from Reese's) with their chocolate?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtLBKiXMmwrNVyOEyXyr2OCiO6OH1FPyoC5mdfbPIzwoYJxAN6CfjHDkl1rWCIXPW8fWo_YiyLmKSgMOv7fQXHU5Fu2hkU3zWE_kThBqFgy26AJjy3wVEx0BC9q-q9Y_a1JFeXew8j86Y/s1600/A&A+heart+donut.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="590" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtLBKiXMmwrNVyOEyXyr2OCiO6OH1FPyoC5mdfbPIzwoYJxAN6CfjHDkl1rWCIXPW8fWo_YiyLmKSgMOv7fQXHU5Fu2hkU3zWE_kThBqFgy26AJjy3wVEx0BC9q-q9Y_a1JFeXew8j86Y/s640/A&A+heart+donut.JPG" uea="true" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Krispy Kreme- certainly not a heart healthy breakfast, but...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwSRDxZL3j5EH6oU2yzBDKstiGLy67A9ZBbGFYmdRJrh1B1H1XUJDelmRnYaXc_jwn3MlgaYHXZgMRiepW2wPXDiNQdQ-H5u5KJam8_s0rUZetrJBw-whSg8Be_9DOu7fnomcwdCH-rCg/s1600/A&A+with+milk.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwSRDxZL3j5EH6oU2yzBDKstiGLy67A9ZBbGFYmdRJrh1B1H1XUJDelmRnYaXc_jwn3MlgaYHXZgMRiepW2wPXDiNQdQ-H5u5KJam8_s0rUZetrJBw-whSg8Be_9DOu7fnomcwdCH-rCg/s640/A&A+with+milk.JPG" uea="true" width="412" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">add a glass of milk and heartfelt sentiment, what's not to love?</td></tr>
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As you can see, we're all sugared up at the A&A house!Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-88794218863089729902013-02-11T06:00:00.000-05:002013-02-12T17:37:52.704-05:00Red Hot! <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8GRO5rDOcGiqd4q7EXtOSaMpZ25gXIsA-cBT2Wv1tiRTnRaW_nHqJnEe582pCwdYGVaUcjD5sqxe-ydUMqZHOPUJfArVdBc3POAgFiOfPojxiRzjw-W1DW3FhPb9OjauM497voWYOWbs/s1600/A%2526A+branca+entry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="504" jea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8GRO5rDOcGiqd4q7EXtOSaMpZ25gXIsA-cBT2Wv1tiRTnRaW_nHqJnEe582pCwdYGVaUcjD5sqxe-ydUMqZHOPUJfArVdBc3POAgFiOfPojxiRzjw-W1DW3FhPb9OjauM497voWYOWbs/s640/A%2526A+branca+entry.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Foyer by Alessandra Branca</td></tr>
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I think red is such a tricky color to work with on interior rooms. Done right it can be warm & inviting, sexy & glamorous and of course classic. Done poorly, it can look cheap and harsh. The client I've been working with for the past year LOVES red. It's never been at the top of my list of favorite colors, but I thought I'd share some imagines that I've looked to for inspiration during our collaboration. It's hard not to be a little smitten, and what better time to review them since Valentine's Day is just around the corner!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqYhGZpDVQ7RBZ3F9P8I1FTOWdfcxDWXqgd8F1oQtMLye16rCHpMgbfkJQR1wkTKOAWchzKMuXP5j12ZFdG9VP6tJ0tqOW8lc6RyPvQZ10NzbHGFSXjN-waXto0Mug_pWKkvLdXNzF5Js/s1600/A&A+via+attic+mag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" jea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqYhGZpDVQ7RBZ3F9P8I1FTOWdfcxDWXqgd8F1oQtMLye16rCHpMgbfkJQR1wkTKOAWchzKMuXP5j12ZFdG9VP6tJ0tqOW8lc6RyPvQZ10NzbHGFSXjN-waXto0Mug_pWKkvLdXNzF5Js/s640/A&A+via+attic+mag.jpg" width="580" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Attic Magazine. <br />
Designer unknown, but I sure would like to know who brilliantly combined red, pink and purple!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTPqm0ite0nb-M955ESDBatfQYjqkoDVpmJxTMDvKI4Cz5yjyde2RmM1CnBk7AA0UlkohDa-iqFqbLeFeMENRMejMpDeAVB7cz-iZliXR7fjJiVdbSJurKrvWBXFnOQxBV9RE5FjcJaG8/s1600/A%2526A+branca+media+rm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="428" jea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTPqm0ite0nb-M955ESDBatfQYjqkoDVpmJxTMDvKI4Cz5yjyde2RmM1CnBk7AA0UlkohDa-iqFqbLeFeMENRMejMpDeAVB7cz-iZliXR7fjJiVdbSJurKrvWBXFnOQxBV9RE5FjcJaG8/s640/A%2526A+branca+media+rm.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alessandra Branca. Red is her signature color and she always gets it right.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_WGk5vhBw_kRayh9sogPA66B_XUciVqqt2Pz6Asd-YnMJWy11TT9EFqCBmJA9K9nSfRqcxZG2S3-hlHAf2z3lvgCAP6-CUYWr_nxVyACcWn99k1qtOvFk1rselrGvVeb6J2-F8oKYvsE/s1600/A&A+Joe+Nye.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" jea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_WGk5vhBw_kRayh9sogPA66B_XUciVqqt2Pz6Asd-YnMJWy11TT9EFqCBmJA9K9nSfRqcxZG2S3-hlHAf2z3lvgCAP6-CUYWr_nxVyACcWn99k1qtOvFk1rselrGvVeb6J2-F8oKYvsE/s640/A&A+Joe+Nye.jpg" width="634" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joe Nye. Gracie wallpaper in red. Swoon.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1G0efXiairUNcTSY_gyCJedHRECaDLIRoTG8dnHSRQKnXW0QYKsg0adR_i5bXveAla7npK0vVQplKEK8mFf6bepeFABSp3woeI-CPcoRpRGHc5w7Fl_XK7o4Ghw40gDKRIeMyyDFU6cM/s1600/A%2526A+poppy+red.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" jea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1G0efXiairUNcTSY_gyCJedHRECaDLIRoTG8dnHSRQKnXW0QYKsg0adR_i5bXveAla7npK0vVQplKEK8mFf6bepeFABSp3woeI-CPcoRpRGHc5w7Fl_XK7o4Ghw40gDKRIeMyyDFU6cM/s640/A%2526A+poppy+red.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unknown source. Fun and vibrant for those who love modern.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc8ztqWuZ8CCTkWygTx9Rl1GAYxVnfJxz9vsHLnCJ_scZkJ5z33VAYGeap-uvw0dDK0FUPsIjQMrontu_G50oE1ZeaPO9b6U_x0ydpRDvEDrLLAiCCnIIZXxeCT_kOnnTeNZ3UTDDqHiA/s1600/A%2526A+mary+mac.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="467" jea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc8ztqWuZ8CCTkWygTx9Rl1GAYxVnfJxz9vsHLnCJ_scZkJ5z33VAYGeap-uvw0dDK0FUPsIjQMrontu_G50oE1ZeaPO9b6U_x0ydpRDvEDrLLAiCCnIIZXxeCT_kOnnTeNZ3UTDDqHiA/s640/A%2526A+mary+mac.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mary McDonald. Never one to shy away from bold color and patterns.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ-XpNIkvE7iqHybfgZtVP8HXYygo88nESY_3VAYD69rNlEKGAQ_p2bxzCajI83GmjpV0RFIef3HWovFYCWr4tjJwKU4_dJSnFOQyIgVPOcjUdfXL1lObwBTtdHgKEy6a8KNcsopF8_rw/s1600/A%2526A+nuevo+estilo+via+Lamp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="512" jea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ-XpNIkvE7iqHybfgZtVP8HXYygo88nESY_3VAYD69rNlEKGAQ_p2bxzCajI83GmjpV0RFIef3HWovFYCWr4tjJwKU4_dJSnFOQyIgVPOcjUdfXL1lObwBTtdHgKEy6a8KNcsopF8_rw/s640/A%2526A+nuevo+estilo+via+Lamp.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nuevo Estilo via <a href="http://www.ifthelampshadefits.blogspot.com/">La Lamp</a>.<br />
One of my favorite chair styles taken to a whole new level with red velvet only an accent., but still the star of this dining room.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-cD0M3jX6khVf4mpqIaCtnjXURMRwyEx7bJjiaJ0LEHpejqPkKJMBCmT1hp1_v9KPr1N9C8syz10nGs93V450DbDgG3iRu2txPIq1HhYfhzRzSKoX8X9w3AfO1qwCWmijeUgCR2ubLDg/s1600/A%2526A+celerie+Kemble.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" jea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-cD0M3jX6khVf4mpqIaCtnjXURMRwyEx7bJjiaJ0LEHpejqPkKJMBCmT1hp1_v9KPr1N9C8syz10nGs93V450DbDgG3iRu2txPIq1HhYfhzRzSKoX8X9w3AfO1qwCWmijeUgCR2ubLDg/s640/A%2526A+celerie+Kemble.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celerie Kemble. Again just a few hits of red.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimzIRkYmphBlNM9g-bYWsDbjO7pl9cvES7MdAAyzFCRjrhsHRFKxMXSCQuPXMzu1l66Cr6Lc7kImH0g6UXhZsy4wAfJfB2V9QjzOY4PrgOceR4hxQayIkHzOukF640g8s1IP4EEyCIiBo/s1600/A&A+branca+library.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="504" jea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimzIRkYmphBlNM9g-bYWsDbjO7pl9cvES7MdAAyzFCRjrhsHRFKxMXSCQuPXMzu1l66Cr6Lc7kImH0g6UXhZsy4wAfJfB2V9QjzOY4PrgOceR4hxQayIkHzOukF640g8s1IP4EEyCIiBo/s640/A&A+branca+library.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another cozy room by Alessandra Branca showcasing her signature red lamp shades that she incorporates in nearly every one of her rooms!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuXGRigG5u2bRLoJM_onGsc2fdZVtI1LZpaUyL4BkqqfnuSsEOzoi0VwpRG7hc8DsWkjuymVjrEuWmpLy7TBpFM9owAG7B729c359tFukHpIODHX3oXwh28GSBpQP8r1O-oC-hjq0389A/s1600/A%2526A+tommy+smythe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="540" jea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuXGRigG5u2bRLoJM_onGsc2fdZVtI1LZpaUyL4BkqqfnuSsEOzoi0VwpRG7hc8DsWkjuymVjrEuWmpLy7TBpFM9owAG7B729c359tFukHpIODHX3oXwh28GSBpQP8r1O-oC-hjq0389A/s640/A%2526A+tommy+smythe.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I proclaimed my love for <a href="http://www.acanthusandacorn.blogspot.com/2012/02/lets-fall-in-love-with-thomas-smythe.html">Tommy</a> last February, but can it hurt to do it twice? I don't think so!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8cLmgJBOg9O27QnaWVse_0LkrGLrdZ9AxPioL_KD9V92og3fkw3WJd0yGRxOwRFZjVxgGftXdrmFPz2jinjOrACcEwX-DTUIHIgV0GqRpCtK2uCYZKtwDS3-4y98gsswa_YsPpKUYGgA/s1600/A&A+cottage+living.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" jea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8cLmgJBOg9O27QnaWVse_0LkrGLrdZ9AxPioL_KD9V92og3fkw3WJd0yGRxOwRFZjVxgGftXdrmFPz2jinjOrACcEwX-DTUIHIgV0GqRpCtK2uCYZKtwDS3-4y98gsswa_YsPpKUYGgA/s640/A&A+cottage+living.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A <span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Lovely</span> room from Cottage Living, if only we could get the kid out of it!!!</td></tr>
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Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-8505459203606295562013-02-01T20:15:00.002-05:002013-05-07T16:17:00.413-04:00Dangerous Dog Toys: An Urgent Warning To Dog Owners!!!If you read my last post, you know that our beloved dog, Remy, is recovering from surgery. On Wednesday, from something completely unrelated, I thought she may die. Remy and my daughter were visiting at a neighbor's house when I got a call saying she swallowed 2 squeakers from a dog toy.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Choking hazard due to the flatness, silky smooth faux fur and squeakers located in the head and tail. This toy was purchased at Harris Teeter, which is where I went to take this photo, but likely available at other retailers.</td></tr>
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I rushed her to the vet and the x-ray showed a mass, which was thought to be food and/or shredded and chewed parts of the toy and the 2 squeakers. After 2 failed attempts to induce vomiting to bring up whatever was in her stomach, I was told she could be sedated and have a tube and camera inserted down her throat to try and locate/remove what was in it, but depending on what else was in the stomach there was no guarantee of success.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My dogs stomach with mystery mass and 2 squeakers.</td></tr>
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The recommendation of our vet after consulting 2 other vets and a specialist was to take her home, monitor her breathing and bring her back first thing Thursday morning to see if a new x-ray yielded any change before admitting her to surgery to open her stomach and remove the objects.<br />
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Needless to say it was a sleepless night and thank god, because sometime after 2am I heard her vomiting. The pile left on the laundry room floor was so large, it could have been elephant dropping.<br />
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<strong>Warning:</strong> the next two pictures are incredibly gross.<br />
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I really had no idea what I was looking at or if the squeakers were in this- no choice but to put on gloves and and go through the mess. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The contents of my dogs stomach.</td></tr>
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I was in complete shock when I realized my dog had swallowed the toy whole and it was the length of a cookie sheet! <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The whole toy and some carrots.</td></tr>
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The vet was equally surprised when I showed up with the contents in a bag- there was clapping and cheering literally from everyone on duty the night before. She said we truly dodged a bullet because rarely will a dog vomit 6 hours later with no food or injection administered. This toy would be the human equivalent of mixing chewing gum and spaghetti together and giving it to a child!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lady Remington, aka Remy, exhausted, but on the mend. </td></tr>
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I share all of this with you so that others can avoid going through such a scary ordeal. Our vets office is also posting warnings in their office.<br />
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I'm hoping February brings a whole lot of this:<br />
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Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-79871477968556513002013-01-27T20:00:00.000-05:002013-05-07T16:16:33.297-04:00Under The Weather...So far my ambitious plans for January have eluded me. Fortunately, I have not succumbed to the flu, though I suspect many of you have the nasty virus? <br />
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I had a bad cold and then an onslaught of migraines and currently a foot problem that I could no longer ignore. According to the podiatrist, I have something called capsulitis- it's common, especially in runners. That part made me laugh since I haven't run anywhere, on purpose, in nearly a decade! It also seems certain types of shoes can make it worse. A shot of cortisone relieved the worst of the pain and swelling. And, now I'm left with a bandage that has a little triangle pad inside of it to elevate my foot in the middle. Oh, and some new shoes from a place called <strong>The Walking Company</strong>. I must confess, I've passed by this place many times in the mall and always assumed it was for the very old...or nurses. My new shoes were as expensive as <strong>Jimmy Choos</strong>, but would most certainly make <strong>Carrie Bradshaw</strong> cry. Hopefully, this is temporary. The pain and the shoes!<br />
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And my beautiful little <a href="http://www.acanthusandacorn.blogspot.com/2011/12/working-with-models.html">model</a> has had a pretty crummy start to the new year too. She had 8 cysts removed during a 3 hour surgery. I felt like such a bad pet-parent that she had to endure such torture and the Elizabethan collar, aka the cone of shame, and miss out on our snow days. It's been so sad watching her stare out the window and whimper, that most days, I've had to keep the curtains closed. Sniff-sniff.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just after Christmas posing in front of an old oil painting- a gift from Mr. A&A</td></tr>
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At least February is just around the corner and hopefully we will both be feeling some love!Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-21117406939778888082013-01-15T20:30:00.002-05:002013-05-07T16:17:29.499-04:00Tuesday TipTake inventory and take advantage of the white sales! <br />
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January is always the perfect time to take inventory and assess what you may have noticed lacking over the holidays. An extra set of towels, the perfect platter, etc... And sometimes the beginning of a new year acts as a reminder to re-stock so to speak. And, in my case it allowed me to take control of my seemingly uncontrolable landslide of breakdowns and breakage.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aplico lions head tureen</td></tr>
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I am not exaggerating when I tell you something(s) has broken down, or accidentally been broken every week for the past 2 months. It's almost laughable. Almost.<br />
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The series of mechanical failures started with the new lawn mower. Last week it was the dishwasher. The next 10 items ranged from toilets to my mixer. You get the picture, homeowner hell- we've all been there in varying degrees depending on the age of your house. This week, the coffee maker and washing machine are vying for the honor of number 13 with their noisy antics. Mr. A&A was traveling during most of the issues, naturally. Coincidentally, many of my standard white dishes and serving pieces met their demise over the holidays.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">John Wanamaker</td></tr>
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In case you ever wondered how the white sale got it's name, the credit goes to John Wanamaker. Wanamaker's is the famed Philadelphia department store. In 1878, to boost slow sales in the month of January, Mr. Wanamaker put all his linens on sale. Naturally, they only came in white. It's interesting that over 130 years later, most people still think of linens and towels when they hear the term white sale. These days most retailers include small household appliances (that are not necessarily white) and in more recent years white dishes and a host of other random items can be among the sale offerings. One other little tid-bit for those who love design/literature/history, Edith Wharton's book The Reef could be purchased at Wanamaker's in 1913 for $1.17 according to wcpubliclibrary.org.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside the famed department store.</td></tr>
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Over the years I've been partial to Apilco French Porcelain, but I'm certainly open to a change and would love to hear your tips on your favorite white dishware? Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8087985679708902082.post-21038512663319320642012-12-31T20:00:00.002-05:002013-05-07T16:17:49.896-04:00New Year's Wishes!I don't know what 2013 will bring, but there is always something about the start of a new year that is so exciting and inspirational. This little design blog celebrated it's 3rd anniversary on Saturday- it really doesn't seem possible! It's been a lot of fun and I feel so fortunate for the all wonderful people I have met along the way and the friendships that have formed. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where will you be celebrating when the clock strikes 12 o'clock, at home by the fire or out on the town?</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Wishing you all the very best in 2013, HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!</strong></span>Acanthus and Acornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08603547994268012876noreply@blogger.com14