Tuesday Tip

Making a list, checking it twice. Gonna find out who's naughty or nice! Or at least who is a nice host and ready for the holidays...and who is naughty and not prepared!



C'mon Santa, don't look so surprised!



Each year, I began focusing on the holidays the first 2 weeks of November. I find it hard to jump into decorating, baking and shopping if there are a bunch of incomplete tasks distracting me. I start by making 2 lists. The first is for non-perishable items I need to buy/stock and the second is for seasonal chores to complete. This year I actually feel a bit behind since retail has decided Christmas should arrive before Halloween this year. Did you notice too? Crazy!


Make your bar beautiful for the holiday season!!!


Purchase list:
bar basics
cider
nuts
olives
crackers
cheese straws
chocolate/truffles
baking basics
soaps
candles
hostess gifts(not wine or flowers!)



 Truffles, a holiday favorite!

Plenty of delicious crackers for your cheese selections.



Mixed olives are perfect for easy entertaining.



Chore list:
Break it down into categories so you don't feel overwhelmed.  Commit to tacking at least 2 items from each group to complete each week. Hire out what you can and solicit family members to help out. Motivating tip: tell your family you will not be able to shop for gifts or mail lists to Santa until the chores are complete!  This has been a great motivator at the A&A house for years.

Kitchen:
clean oven(s)
wipe out silverware trays
wipe out fridge & freezer
clean out & organize pantry
check spices, toss any over a year old



Polish silver while listening to Christmas music.



Dining:
polish silver
clean chandelier
launder & press table linens



  Launder & press table linens.


Guest relations:
sweep & tidy entryway
gather towels, sheets and soaps



Seasonal soaps are a nice gesture.



Be prepared for overnight guests with beautiful sheets.

General:
deep clean every room of the house before Thanksgiving
send rugs out for cleaning or clean under them and rotate

Other:
clean windows
clean out gutters
chimney sweep
change batteries in all detectors



The dirtiest job!


Not only will you feel relieved by completing these items before the holidays get in full swing, you feel so much more prepared and ready to bake, shop for presents, and just enjoy the season!

What's on your list?

Images via Martha Sterwart for Ashley Hicks, Godiva, Williams-Sonoma, Ralph Lauren, Caswell- Massey, Google

Tuesday Tip

Leaded fuel.  Always.  Coffee is my friend.  My favoite friend.  Ok.  Possibly my bff! My daughter actually said that to me once and I scoffed at the remark, but then had to laugh at the element of truth.  Tea is a welcome visitor too.

I am quite sure caffeine is very important to many of you.  I have a caffeine station in my kitchen.  No, not one of those fabulous built in types, although that would be so nice!  But, a far less grand arrangement out on the counter with a bunch of things I need  to cope...I mean...uh...be my best everyday.

Generally, I don't care for appliances to be on display.  I have selfishly decided the coffeemaker is a worthy exception.  Mine is not even all that attractive.  But, I like this type because it keeps the coffee hot and fresh all day and the outside of the pot stays cool. Which means I can and do cart the carafe to my office!  I also have a French press, but I use it sporadically.  When I feel the luxury of leisure.  Lately, we haven't visited much.  A forgotten friend.

I keep everything contained on a tray that gets used.  Sometimes, I take all the items (except the bff) and put them just below in the cabinet I designed to store them.  And other times, it's all out like you see here:

So if I am leaving it out, it has to look nice right?  I put the filters and spoons in a large mug that is a bit like a latte bowl.  I don't use sweetner in my coffee, so no need for a sugar bowl or tiny packets of powder unless I have other friends over.  Cream or milk only for me.  The thin little metal gizmo can whip up dollups of frothy milk in less than a minute!  I  often drink tea later in the day.  I do like my tea a bit sweet and use the lemon & honey straws in the tall glass.  Loose tea is in the small square canister and plenty of tea bags in the wood box.

I do like to change containers on occasion.  I am always interested in finding pretty and practical ways to coral all the necessities of my crutch, addiction, vice...daily fuel.  And, if I'm on the run, I'll swing by the drive through of the really overpriced barista.  Just don't tell my bff!

Cleaning tip:  The best way I have found to clean the inside of a thermal coffee pot is to put about 2 tablespoons of dishwasher powder (Cascade) and fill it up with very hot water.  Let it sit for several hours, then rinse until the water is clear.  Repeat for stubborn stains and use a soft foam cleaning wand if necessary.  The inside will look like new!

All images courtesy google and A&A

Tuesday Tip

Guest relations.  Week to week I am never sure what will pop into my head to share with you all.  Most often it is something that comes about in a quick and unexpected way.  On more than one occassion I have had that sinking feeling Tuesday will be disappointing because either I am slammed with life, work or both.  Lately, it's been both.  Had it not been for the email I received from a reader, this Tuesday would have been a blank page. 

This reader wanted to know what I would recommend for guest soaps and did I keep favorites always on hand?  I suggest that you only supply your guests with soaps that you would enjoy using yourself.  I offer an assortment.  I also choose the soaps based on whether my guests are male or female and what I think they will like.  I almost always have some on hand, because....well,  I love soap!  But, if it's more than a few days stay, I probably need to shop.  And, yes, multiple soaps for multiple people and uses!!!

When people stay with me, I want them to feel it was pleasurable in the way that good hotels always make you feel.  But, of course everything in the contex of real living.  In other words, plenty of beautiful soaps and stacks of fluffy white towels, just not delivered everyday!

So here is what I have on hand now.  All in dishes and containers I already own.  I would also use any of these in my powder room.  Which would you choose?

One last thing, I have been so late in thanking the very kind  Amy of Pemberley Style  who gave me a blogger award.

She has a wonderful online shop Pemberley Collections that among many other things sells the most delightful soap dishes!

Tuesday Tip

Suds up!  I count soap among my many obsessions.  There are 3 simple criteria to make me buy a bar: smell,size and color.  When I am nearing completion of a bathroom project, one of my very favorite things to consider are the soaps and containers.  I look for items that will not only suit the space, but the clients will really enjoy.  But, even at home I like it to feel decorative.

If you are a regular reader of Tuesday Tips you have likely taken notice that I have issues with packaging.  I often shop the big box stores, the very same ones many of you do your shopping.  However, when I get home I can't just put my purchases away.  I require them to strip!  As in rid themselves of the hideous attire your favorite brand is sporting!  I toss everything possible into the recycle bin and trash the rest.  I do this for two simple reasons, beauty and convenience.  I talked about yesterday.  LBE!  And, if I don't have time, I get my kids to do it.  They never complain...they know there are far worse chores I could assign!

Here is a look into the the top drawer of the vanity in the bathroom my kids share:

Option #1

Option#2

Ahh...so much better.  Beautiful and convenient.  The pretty green soap on top smells divine and is mine!  No sharing...just wanted a super pretty picture.  And, given the crazy amount of bars teenagers go through, Dove is quite fine for them!!!  The wood bowl is perfect for the shallow drawer.  Or, if you love a long soak, try a pile of soaps in your favorite basket next to the tub as shown in the top photo. Now the words "beauty bar" make sense wouldn't you agree?

all images courtesy of A&A

Live Beautifully Everyday!

Three words I am committed to incorporating in every aspect of my life.  The core of my design philosophy.  Words that fit into any budget or style.  Is this a new concept?  Hardly.  A forgotten one?  Definately.  I am continually amazed at the prospect that many people still subscribe to the notion that there are certain things that must be saved for guests and special occasions.

I was reminded of this again today, when chatting with a friend.  She mentioned that she had company for Easter dinner.  My friend said that her guests loved her china and she was so happy she unpacked it for Easter. And, that the table looked really beautiful.  She seemed almost surprised.  The idea that people deprive themselves of enjoying their own things is perplexing.  Do they not feel worthy of such little pleasures?

Well I am here to say, we are all worthy of using beautiful things and that each day that we wake up and take a breath is a SPECIAL occasion!!!  I encouraged her not to pack them up, but instead display them or relocate them somewhere more accessible.  I suggested she even let go of other items to make room for these dishes she clearly enjoys.  She said this had never crossed her mind!  Sound familiar?  For those of you nodding....I feel very confident your great-grandma would never say "Okay, the minute you hear death is imminent or that Armageddon is not just a movie, you can use the heirloom (fill in the blank) I passed down to you."

Still not convinced?  Consider this.  By using the items you deem special, not only can it improve the quality of everyday living and at the very least bring a smile to your face, but you will always be confident when sharing them with others.  Because: 1.) it didn't cause anyone to break out in hives. 2.) smell bad.  3.) fall apart.

Make a point to use those items you thought were special enough to buy, save and store away in the first place!  I'm talking about linens, dishes, chocolates and everything in between!!!  Otherwise, how do you know what you want to share or gift and what you really want to keep for yourself and use at whim?  Buy a duplicate if it turns out to be something you really love to use, but also want to share.  This way no one was deprived of enjoyment.  Except in the case of the unwanted house guest.  Find the best local hotel possible or simply skip worrying about number one!!!

Repeat often L-B-E!!!

images courtesy of Wedgwood, Diptyque, Williams-Sonoma Home, Lily O'Brien, Hermes

Tuesday Tip

Spring Cleaning!  In order for me to kick off spring, I must officially say goodbye to winter.  For me, this ritual starts in our laundry/mud room.  It begins with washing and putting away all the coats, hats, scarves and gloves.  The room immediately looks and feels brighter with the white wainscot now more visable after removing all the dark coats cluttering up the hooks!

After everything is washed or drycleaned, and the coats are relocated to a storage closet.  The wool coats go into a canvas hanging bag, and I toss a few of those little cedar balls in the bottom and zip it up.

The hats, scarves and gloves are stored in lined baskets.  I put a dryer sheet in the bottom of each basket and then fold everything so it is ready for the next season.  During fall and winter I am quite happy if things are thrown into the baskets or on the hooks and do not land on the bench below! I use my favorite dryer sheets to line the baskets.  It makes everything, including the room, smell so good!  Here's a little peek into my basket:

This small room is the main entrance for our family.  It's also where the backpacks and shoes land, where the dog eats, where the family calendar and note board is kept, and yes, where the mud gets tracked in and the laundry is done!  Keeping it super organized is a necessity.  Every spring is a reminder to sort through things and freshen it up a bit to keep it looking nice.

One of the ways this can be accomplished is to consider how everyday items are used, such as detergent! There are so many options for beautiful, inexpensive, practical dispensers.  In all likelihood, you already have plenty of options to choose from in your own home.  Just think outside the box....or jug!

I prefer powders.  I don't like dealing with heavy jugs and endless drips.  I have front loading machines and this just really comes down to preference.  For a lively dialogue about powder vs. liquid check out iVillage's Garden Web home forum on this subject.  I also prefer my storage to be open.  Meaning no tops or lids.  Nothing to unscrew or lift off.  Did you know the average person spends 5-7 hours per week in their laundry room?

Another reason to make things attractive and convenient!  A quick scoop out of these crocks and I'm ready to push the start button.  Also, if you don't have a counter across your machines, (one of the 2 things still incomplete in this room!) cover them with a large white towel.  It will keep the surfaces from getting scratched as well as act as a little noise buffer.  Plus, it just looks fresh!

I'll try anything to avoid keeping unsightly boxes and bottles out.  Here is what I have found works best for me over the years:  Crocks, one large for detergent, one small for laundry booster, an oil pouring bottle for fabric softener and plastic scoops to avoid chipping the rims.  If you really want something pretty, try a palm sized clam shell from your last trip to the beach!  My daughter found 2 that are purple and white that we use in the summer.  The green fabric softener is a new scent I thought I would give a try.  I also added the tray this past weekend.  I am hoping that certain members of the household will take a hint of where I would like things left!  Happy Spring!!!

images coursety of CountryHome, Southern Accents, flicr and A&A

Tuesday Tip

File folders.  My home office is having a little lapse in efficiency at the moment. Okay, that is not exactly the truth. The actual truth is far more pathetic.  It's having major style and organizational issues!  To such  extent I could barely locate the few items I am showing here in the sea of scribbled notes, scraps of paper, notebooks, magazines, stray pens, pencils, invoices, tile pieces, fabric samples and folders.  I put everything on the floor just to clear this little corner spot of the top of my desk which actually has a pretty curvy top and beautiful iron base.  Think European garden table.  The pale aqua mantle is an antique that was a birthday gift from my husband in 1998.  Not only is it pretty to look at, but makes a easily accessible shelf!

Two things caused my office to look like a bomb went off in it.  Which is why you only get to see the little spot I cleared!  Here is what happened exactly in this order:  I started blogging and then a month later the SRT did an interview with Grant Gibson. The mess in my office was caused by the latter I've concluded.  You see the SRT ladies and Grant did not state the specific publication name and year that showed his bathroom project that they knew in advance they were going discuss!!!  And because of this little oversight, I was forced to trash my office looking for the tear sheet I knew I had saved or filed somewhere???  Afterall, I had to follow along as they chatted about each detail in the picture!  Pause button you ask?   I had already made tea and gotten all cozy.  I was in the SRT mind frame...no pausing allowed!

How does this relate to file folders you ask?  Well every project needs a starting point and inspiration.  And, I suppose before the SRT interview my office needed an update. So it's been on my mind for a bit and I keep coming across great options in folders.  Hopefully, one will spark a new color scheme and help me get back to the organized way I used to work before the laspe!!!  Looking at all the amazing designs and patterns available is really no different than looking at fabric. I've got to start somewhere, so why not file pretty!

And, if organization and pattern aren't your thing, may I suggest these!

Folders on my desk from Wal-Mart. Pink/aqua floral folders-World Market.  Folders in Red, Aqua and Brown-See Jane Work.  William Morris Cloverleaf-Amazon. Crap folders-The Paper Source.  All under $15.

Tuesday Tip

Function beautifully.  I mentioned in my previous post a client stopped by to drop off two items.  The visit was just long enough to grab a quick cup of coffee and show her one possible storage solution for her many pairs of shoes.  As she glanced around my kitchen she commented "I like the way you display some of your food items. " Huh?"  This took me a moment to process because as far as I knew there was no food on display, except for the sad bananas begging to be made into bread.  I realized she was talking about what was under my microwave!

There it was in fact on full display, the contents of our daily breakfast.  It occured to me in that moment I had not thought about this in awhile.  I have always used decorative jars and containers on my countertops for snacks and go to foods since my kids were little.  Not only does it look nice, but it directs them to your preferred choices.  Imagine the time saved everyday if you don't have to rummage through the pantry and cupboards trying to locate everything you need.  Added bonus:  it practically eliminates hearing "Mom, where is the...?"  We can literally prepare oatmeal in a minute!  Of course, before I took this photo I made sure the jars were fingerprint free, no stray raisins lingered, and the items on the little ratten tray were actually facing the right direction!

The alternative: 

I don't think anyone desires their countertops to look like the isle of the grocery store.  That should be the goal for your pantry!!!

Sources:  Each item was less than $15 except the two gifts.

Glass jars with lids: Wal-Mart
Plastic scoop: Container Store
Blue bowls: Anthropology
Pewter spice shakers: birthday gift
Blue salt shaker: Pottery Barn
Ratten Tray:  Smith & Hawkin
Blue sugar bowl: Plow & Hearth
Spoons: wedding gift...not this decade!

In case your interested...one minute breakfast:

1/2c. quick oats

1c. skim milk

dash salt

Add ins: Kids
1T. dark brown sugar
1T. raisins
2 shakes cinnamon
Top w/banana slices after cooking

Add  ins: Mom & Dad
1T. light brown sugar
1T. cranberries
1T. walnuts or pecans
3-4 shakes cinnamon
dash nutmeg

Microwave 45 seconds, stir, and enjoy!!!

Tuesday Tip

I think many of us, whether we are designers managing tight budgets or home owners looking to make little updates, watching for sales is an often necessary part of design.

My pick today is Anthropologie!  I have a long standing affection for this store.  It has an eclectic array of merchandise that appeals to a broad range of ages and tastes.  I do however, have a great deal of trouble paying full price for items that are often deemed unnecessary.  I shop their sales and pick up items that I can use in my own home, design projects, or to give as gifts to friends and family.  So, with the 20/10 rule in place, here's what I found:

Woodland Creatures Pot Au Chocolat:  I am certain any hot chocolate will taste divine poured from this pot, as well as delight both young and old with this whimsical design!!!  At $19.95 it is the most expensive item of my lot, but who could resist???

Love Bird Salt & Pepper Shakers:  For spring luncheons, Mother's Day, a friend's birthday, a collector, or dining alfresco in the summer.  At $12/pair, a very sweet tweet-tweet!

Laurel Leaf Bowls:  Wonderful raised details and a soothing blue color to compliment many dishes already in your cupboard.  And if you have glass front cabinets, like I do, your dishes need to be pretty and practical to hold up to everyday use.  These bowls are a good deal at $7.95 each because they are microwave and dishwasher safe!

Olive Picks:  These look like miniture tulips!  Made from olivewood, each one has its own unique characteristics.  At $3.95 each, buy them to encourage good manners!!!  Add your favorite jar of olives, a beautiful ribbon and you just created the perfect 10 minute hostess gift!  They would also be great tied on packages or dropped into stockings.  I wish I had bought more....so hurry!!!