The unveiling… the pathway of pavers has been completed… woohoo!

On February 17, 2013February 17, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn HOME8 Comments

The “Before”, which was perfectly fine until the pavers started getting pushed up from the roots making it quite the challenge to walk on the path… not good. So, Fred dug up these pavers and MOVED them away from the tree (making it much better for the tree). He managed to do the bulk of this in a few days… then we spent a weekend moving plants, changing beds a little bit, and now… we’re waiting for the grass to crawl over the dirt that you see pictured below close to the pavers. The grass has already started creeping! (Better photos soon… this was right before it started raining)!

Gorgeous! Fred moved some monkey grass that we had behind the pool and planted at each end of the walkway to lead your eye to the path, and not the straightaway to the garage! It worked beautifully!

Fabulous job! THANK YOU FRED! YOU’RE AWESOME! Catch you back here tomorrow!

The new walkway… pavers have been moved… in progress!

On February 16, 2013December 21, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn HOME8 Comments

I know! Isn’t he the most gorgeous man? Sweet too! Lucky me! This was hour 500 of pulling up/digging out old pavers, and creating a new pathway to not upset our live oak tree’s sensitive roots… We want that tree to thrive, so this is what “we” must do! I showed you where we started last week in THIS POST. Look at him… smile on his face. How wonderful is that?

I had already raked some leaves into the old pathway just to keep the beast’s feet clean (Charlie/Jack Russell) but you can see where Fred started pulling out old pavers that were put down over ten years ago… To recap: the reason we’re moving this walkway is because the large roots are uprooting the pavers in many areas close to the tree. Upon further investigation I read that it was a bad idea to cut the tree’s roots (or even put down pavers so close to a tree), so we re-routed…

Tomorrow… the unveiling, you won’t believe your eyes! Catch you back here then!

Time to move the pavers… Gotta save the oak tree!

On February 10, 2013February 4, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn HOME7 Comments

We had pavers that have been down for years. They’re beautiful, but… they’re close to a live oak tree… the roots are getting big and uprooting the pavers. It’s become a challenge to walk across them. I Googled to be sure it was OK to cut the roots. Whoa, am I ever glad I did! No, it’s not ok to cut the roots… it can weaken the tree and if you have a big wind it can topple the tree. AHHHH! So, Fred has begun the process of digging up the pavers and MOVING THEM. The man has energy like I’ve never seen.

Here it is in progress… will post another once it’s completed! The yard is low right here and tends to flood during big rains, so we’re going to build it up a wee bit. We will have a happy tree and a beautiful walkway soon! Stay tuned!

Catch you back here tomorrow!

In search of the perfect wall light…

On February 5, 2013December 9, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn HOME4 Comments

Industrial Sconce by Urban Outfitters

We’ve been searching high and low for the perfect little wall light for our sunroom. The walls are exposed brick, so hardwiring isn’t the best option, we are looking for a plug in wall light. I’ve found several pretty cool ones, all price ranges. The sconce above is an affordable $49 from Urban Outfitters. I like the cool look of the cord. It comes in white and what looks like stainless… I’m thinking about the white right now…

Modern Swing Arm Wall Sconce from the Rhine Collection – Image: LightingDirect.com

The Modern Swing Arm Wall Sconce offers a contemporary twist to a typical reading light… very chic for only $103!

Swing Arm Wall Lamp by Circa Lighting – Image: CircaLighting.com

You can never go wrong with the lighting at Circa. They have the most gorgeous options! We’re fortunate to live near a Circa Lighting in Charleston, SC, but if you don’t then you’ll be happy to know that they ship… for FREE! The Swing Arm Wall Lamp by Circa Lighting is a classic style with a contemporary edge to it. I like that it has a dimmer so you can leave it on for ambient lighting… and turn it up for task lighting, so you can see what you’re reading!

COUNTERPOISE SWING-ARM WALL SCONCE BRONZE – Image – Restoration Hardware

The Counterpoise Swing-Arm Wall Sconce is another classy option from Restoration Hardware. Classy lighting at this place, and this is no exception. My concern for where I want to put it is that I will hit my head on it when I get up? Hmmm, a consideration!

Tolomeo Micro Wall Lamp by Artemide – Image: Lumens.com

Fred and I have long admired the Tolomeo lighting collection, especially the micro wall lamp. Very cool on either side of a bed, but hmmmm, might be neat in the sunroom as well?!

Robert Abbey Bruno Collection Scissor Arm Pharmacy Plug In Wall Light – LampsPlus.com

And finally… the Robert Abbey Bruno Collection Scissor Arm Pharmacy Plug-In Wall Light so very cool!

So many options and we’ve just begun to search! Having Google makes finding just exactly what you want so much easier!

Catch you back here tomorrow!

Lake Flato Porch Houses… Efficient, architecturally appealing and downright JAW DROPPING!

On January 31, 2013October 6, 2021 By Barbara StroudIn HOME, House Plans, THOUGHTS2 Comments

I KNOW! GORGEOUS! CONTEMPORARY! ECLECTIC! Whoa, awesome design coupled with energy efficient these architects have come up with a masterpiece! It would be really neat to have the main part of the home with a master bedroom/bathroom, living area, kitchen and powder room and have a separate area for guests or a studio! Imagine this situated where you can watch a sunrise/sunset?! Heaven. On. Earth!

Continue reading “Lake Flato Porch Houses… Efficient, architecturally appealing and downright JAW DROPPING!” →

Bird Wallpaper by Schumacher, some of the classiest I’ve ever seen!

On January 24, 2013January 22, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn HOME4 Comments

Is this not the most gorgeous powder room you’ve ever seen? I LOVE this wallpaper. Sarah Richardson used it on her latest season of Sarah’s House, a design show on HGTV. I have to say she has impeccable taste. You’re seeing birds everywhere right now! On clothes, lamps, bedding, pillows and wallpaper. This wallpaper is by Schumacher, it’s called A-TWEET, Summer. It also comes in A-TWEET, Winter, a more subdued version. Gorgeous! Makes me want to tear apart the bathroom and start fresh, hee hee…

I’ll leave you with a swatch… I think I’ll at least go clean out the linen cupboard and bathroom cabinet… using the decluttering/organizing techniques used on the closet and the kitchen utensil drawer (and I’m STILL so happy every time I open that drawer and it doesn’t get stuck!)!

Image: Schumacher

Catch you back here tomorrow!

Powder room image via HGTV.ca (found here)

I found a treasure… you may like it too!

On January 22, 2013January 22, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn HOMELeave a comment

OXO Good Grips Large Silicone Drying Mat

{image}

I don’t have lots of extra room near the sink in my kitchen to put a regular dish drainer. For the past few years I’ve been using a kitchen towel. You don’t have to wash very many dishes (I use the dishwasher mainly, but do wash pots/pans/knives as well as items I know we’ll be using soon) to make the towel sopping wet. Time for a change. I was at Target, looking to see if I could maybe fit a small dish drainer, problem with that was that I didn’t want to leave it out on the counter all the time… then I saw this! WOOHOO! OXO comes up with the coolest gadgets. This being one of them. This mat is made of silicone, it dries quickly (it can also be hung). Problem solved!

So… if you’re in the same predicament I encourage you to try this… I bought it at Target. They also make a smaller size. Note, this is called the “large” it’s not big, it’s just right (16.9″ x 12.5″), you want to be able to hang it or fit it in a drawer when you’re done.

Here’s a product description from Amazon:

Efficiently dry large and delicate items with the OXO Good Grips Large Silicone Drying Mat. The Drying Mat’s unique ribbed design maximizes aeration and elevates items, keeping them clean and sanitary. The large rectangular shape can accommodate a variety of dishes and cookware. Once items are dry, the easy-to-clean Mat can be rolled up or hung for storage. The heat resistant silicone material allows the Mat to double as a trivet.

And if you’re wondering… YES! I am experimenting with themes again. Feel free to drop me a line via The LEAVE A REPLY feature Located directly above the image. If no one has commented yet, you’ll see LEAVE A REPLY, otherwise you’ll see for example “2 REPLIES”, click on that to leave a comment… Catch you back here tomorrow!

Charleston Photo: Broad Street’s Golden Light

On January 20, 2013January 19, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn HOMELeave a comment

LOVE THIS GOLDEN LIGHT! This is the light that makes everything so beautiful! This is a popular painting spot… on Broad Street looking towards St. Michael’s Church. The gorgeous light and the shadows make this an interesting photo (or painting)… Reminder to self… pick up a brush. It’s on my list ;) of things to do!

Enjoy your day, see if you can find some golden light somewhere! Catch you back here tomorrow!

Time for the teeny weeny bikini?

On January 19, 2013January 16, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn HOME, THOUGHTS2 Comments

First I want to ask a favor… at the end of this post is a poll… would you mind offering me your opinion? It’s confidential, I have no idea who responds or what their answer is… appreciate it!!

Well, with the weather here in Charleston last week in the 70-80 degree range I think it’s almost time to hit the beach! Not so much to lay out in my teeny weeny polka dot bikini (HA!), but to take Charlie out walking… Fred and I like to take him usually in the spring and fall, but we missed the fall this year, and it appears spring has sprung, at least for this week! This photo was taken back in April 2011 when my parents visited. We headed out for a walk on the beach at Sullivan’s Island after a delightful lunch at Poe’s Tavern (best hamburgers!).

Hopefully your weather is warming up, wherever you may be!? Catch you back here tomorrow!

Battling Clutter… Streamlining your kitchen utensil drawer!

On January 17, 2013January 18, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn HOME3 Comments

{via}

Note: If you haven’t yet taken the poll on the design of this site, please see the end of this post. Only takes a click to select (or type in your own response) then click VOTE. I don’t know who responds, so feel free to answer how you like, you won’t hurt my feelings! Appreciate your help!

You know the feeling… a jammed utensil drawer in the kitchen. Always fun, right? I haven’t organized mine in a year or so and I swear the “stuff” multiplies… I find myself sticking stuff in the drawer “just in case” I need it. If I find a part that fell off of something, I stick it in the back of the drawer in case I ever figure out what it belonged to. Bad idea. I read an article in Real Simple magazine and what it boils down to, is the fact that you don’t need 5 different pancake flipper things (called spatulas)… or 4 wooden spoons (that I never use because I’m freaked out about how bacteria will stick to it, then you can’t put it in the dishwasher). The list goes on and on… I was surprised. I emptied the drawer, washed it out. Pulled out ALL THE STUFF I HAVEN’T USED IN THE PAST YEAR (or ten). I put that “stuff” in a few stacks. One stack to toss, I mean really… I’m saving CORKS in case one goes bad? I had enough for an army… another stack that there was a small chance I could use again (I put this in the garage. If I don’t use it in a year, it will find a new home), and the rest I deemed good enough to put back in the drawer.

I used to despise opening that drawer. It was full, inevitably something would jam it and make it a pill to open. But NO MORE! I am ORG-A-NIZED now! Woohoo, it feels good!

Oh, did I mention giving the drawer a good wipe down? Now is your chance to clean one of the busiest drawers in the kitchen (at least my kitchen)… go ahead and clean the organizer that holds your silverware while you’re at it… EEEK! How does dust get INSIDE a drawer? Never mind, I don’t want to know…

It would have been nice to purchase a few things to hold the supplies, but I haven’t yet, so I made do with what I had… I wish I would have taken a “before” shot! I threw out quite a bit of stuff I haven’t used in years, the rest ended up in a shoe box in the garage… If I find I need anything in that box I’ll come back for it, but I’m pretty sure I won’t!

Do these little things… no matter what drawer, the same principles apply and it just FEELS GOOD! Use the same rules as cleaning out your closet, click to read my past post, “The Simple Way To Organize and Clean A Closet”…

Here’s a list from Real Simple, this is what they say you need in your utensil drawer!

All You Need in Your Utensil Drawers

An instant-read thermometer, to take the guesswork out of steaks, chops, and roasts.
A large Microplane grater, for cheese, citrus zests, ginger, chocolate, and garlic.
A straight-edge wooden spoon, for getting in the corners of saucepans.
A classic wooden spoon, for everything else.
A natural-bristle basting brush holds more liquid than silicone versions.
Nesting measuring cups conserve space.
Stainless-steel measuring spoons last longer than plastic ones.
A large slotted spoon, to scoop food out of boiling water.
A low-tech can opener that pops bottles, too.
A metal spatula, for pancakes, burgers, and cookies.
Long tongs, for tossing salads, turning chops, and plucking vegetables from a steamer. The locking kind store most easily.
A standard spoon, for sauces.
A Y-shaped peeler: more control than the standard variety.
A silicone spatula, for mixing and getting the last bits of batter from the bowl.
A palm-size vegetable scrubber offers serious leverage.
A mini offset spatula, to free frittatas, lasagnas, and brownies (and to frost cupcakes).
A whisk, to get air into eggs and batter.
A fish spatula: thin, flexible, and perfect for fragile foods, from flounder to fried eggs.
A ladle, for soups, stews, and sauces.
A potato masher: also great for breaking up canned whole tomatoes for sauce.

Catch you back here tomorrow!

Warm temps, time to hit the beach with the beast!

On January 13, 2013January 9, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn HOME6 Comments

Well, as unbelievable as it is… it’s about time to hit the beach! This weather can’t possibly last… warm temps, near 80… makes it a nice time to hit the beach with Charlie… Since he can’t go in the summer (unless it’s before 10AM or after 6PM) we like to go in the spring and fall, anytime before May 1 or after September 30th, then they can go any time of day.

I still remember the first time he went… he was scared of everything, the sand, the wind, THE WAVES! But then he got his feet wet, and started chasing the waves, now when we go he jumps right in, no matter the temperature!

Hope you are all having nice weather as well! Get out and enjoy your day! Catch you back here tomorrow!

The simple way to organize and clean a closet!

On January 10, 2013January 10, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn HOME4 Comments

(Image)

Let me start by saying YOU AREN’T SEEING THINGS… I made a theme change to my blog… it’s about 4:40PM, so if you visited earlier YEP it looked much different! Cleaning things up and giving them a fresher appearance, let me know if you like it… or if you don’t!

It’s almost always time to clean out your closet. If you do it on a regular basis it’ll never get out of control… BUT you have to start somewhere, right? Make today the day you start getting your life in order. Start with one closet at a time and you will feel so good! The steps couldn’t be easier… It’s easiest to go through everything and put it in one of four piles… Note: I’ve written this to apply to cleaning a closet, but same goes for art supplies, a garage, kitchen cabinets, etc.

C L E A N Y O U R C L O S E T – C L E A R Y O U R M I N D ! Don’t laugh, it’s true!

KEEP

These are the clothes/shoes/etc. you KNOW that you wear on a regular basis. The items that you can’t live without.

TOSS

These are the clothes that have seen better days. You know the ones, the holy shirts, and I don’t mean the ones you wear to church on Sunday… these are the shoes that are worn slap out.

DONATE

This is where you can do so much good with items that you may want to hang on to. It gives you motivation to let go of “stuff”. There are so many places that accept donations, the Kidney Foundation, Good Will, local homeless shelters, etc.

SELL

Whether it be a yard sale or a consignment shop there are some items that will make you some money. That never hurts, does it? What doesn’t sell can later be donated.

If you have a some things that you don’t really want to keep, but don’t want to toss, donate or sell, pack them in a box. If you don’t pull them out of the box after a year (or two!), its time for them to move on…

It’s nice to have boxes to put items to Donate, Sell and Toss.

Image: Rd.com

Before you hang everything back in your closet go ahead and give it a good cleaning. Wipe down the shelves and walls. Wash (or vacuum) the floor. It’s not easy to do this when there are clothes hanging in the way, so now is your chance.

Hang your “Keep” clothes back in the closet. One idea is to hang the hanger backwards. After you wear the item hang it the way your normally do. After a period of time, you’ll see the items that you’ve worn (hung the regular way) and the items you haven’t touched (hangers hung backwards), so the next time you clean out your closet you won’t have to wonder if you wore it or not. It should be easier to get rid of!

They say the best time to clean a closet is in the morning. It’s when you’ll make the best decisions. Remember we all have stuff, some is sentimental and we don’t want to get rid of… but sometimes stuff is just stuff and it overtakes our lives. You will feel a sense of calm when you walk into your closet (or open your dresser drawers, etc.) when its not overflowing with STUFF. When you look and what you see are possibilities and none of the items that you know every time that you look at them, that you’ll never wear.

Catch you back here tomorrow!

Plans to make, gifts to take… remember the reason for the season…

On December 23, 2012December 9, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn HOME, THOUGHTS2 Comments

Plans to make. Presents to wrap. Trees to water. Goodies to bake. It won’t be long now and Santa will be dropping off his gifts!

In the midst of the hustle and bustle try to take a moment to remember the reason for the season… Catch you back here tomorrow!

(Image: biblelockscreen.com)

Christmas Tree… Fresh or Fake?

On December 2, 2012December 2, 2012 By Barbara StroudIn HOME, THOUGHTS3 Comments

Well, it’s that time of year… time to put up the Christmas tree! Have you ever had a tree fall over after you’ve decorated it? In the 20 years that we’ve been married we’ve had two trees topple over… devastating consequences… the first tree had lots of glass (beautiful) bulbs… only a few of the glass bulbs survived… it happened as soon as we finished decorating it. It was beautiful. We went to bed and CRASH! Ugh… hours of cleanup and then cement blocks to keep it from falling over. Over the years we finally gave up the cement blocks. Do we REALLY need those big heavy things? Nah… We decorated the tree and a few days later CRASH. Tree toppled… water was everywhere. We had one of those big heavy duty stands that seemed (at the time) to hold about 90 gallons of water! We UNdecorated the tree (sigh)… and moved it to the sunroom… if it floods in there all is well… then we put a little cup hook in the moulding and have tied the top of the tree to it. You can’t see it, but it’s keeping the tree from taking a dive! That (and the cleanup) is the downside of a fresh tree. But the smell, ahhhh… I guess it’s what you grow up with. We always had a fresh tree, so I can’t think of anything but.

Whether fresh or fake, Christmas trees and their beautiful lights can give off such a nice warm glow. I love that! The bonus is that we can see the Christmas tree that’s in our sunroom, but it’s in a cooler room away from the fireplace!

Enjoy your tree! Catch you back here tomorrow!