Home Sweet Home Inspiration

Spring Floral Arrangment

2011-04-20T19:47:00.004-05:00

Just as I shared in my last post (shamefully from last fall), I was admiring the beautiful spring wildflowers that grow on the side of the road I drive everyday. Purples, yellows, whites dotting the edge of the road.

I decided to take few minutes the other afternoon and gather a big bunch and make a bouquet. All free and they are doing quite well. Day three and still beautiful. And like I said in my last post, not only does it feel good to get out and pick flowers to enjoy, but you might just inspire someone else to do the same!

Be Inpired,
Karol

Fall Floral Arrangment

2010-10-09T16:50:00.007-05:00

I have a beautiful, scenic drive down 30A on the Gulf coast every morning to work and recently I had been noticing so many beautiful fall wild flowers along the way and decided last week I would make a few stops on my way home and gather some to make an arrangement.

Ever drive by flowers like this and admire them?

Well, make plans to take a few minutes to stop and gather them and go home and make an arrangement! It only takes a few minutes. And it's also inspiring for others to see you picking flowers. I bet they will think that they have wanted to do the same thing, but just hadn't taken the time yet. :)

Be Inspired!

~Karol :)

Slip Cover Complete!

2010-05-11T20:37:00.016-05:00

Today I finished up my weekend project. Slip covering a chair in my son's room. Last week I shared a few before pics. I will share some "during" pics of some of the things I fixed to make the chair even better.

If you have read my previous post, you will see this pic of what the cushion looked like in the chair. It is sinking in because the strips that hold up the seat are broken.

I removed the sewn-in cushion and this is what I found. It just needs new stripping put down before adding the new cushion.

This is what the cushion looked like by the time I removed it. Kind of a mess and if I had just made a new slip cover for the seat cushion it would have been very lumpy and not looked good.

So I made a casing for the foam piece and also added more stuffing to make a fuller, more comfy seat for the chair.

I replaced the strips with new jute material strips.

I made the seat cushion slip cover first. It looks so much better already!

Then I made the slip cover for the chair. I would share step by step, but I don't really have a method to my madness. But I do prefer the process of laying out the pieces wrong-side-up and pinning everything and cutting to get the best fitting slip cover.

And if I could give two words of advice for making slip covers. Pin everything! I hate pinning things and I get in a hurry sometimes and don't want to, but it is really worth it to take my time and pin everything.

Be Inspired!
Karol

This Weekend's Project

2010-05-07T12:24:00.007-05:00

This weekend I am going to recover an old chair that my son uses at his desk in his room. I bought a set of two chairs like this at an estate sale several years ago. I thought they were perfect for my kids' rooms to have at their desks.

I have shared on my blog before and after pics of my daughter's chair slip covered HERE.

And to be honest, I never took a before pic of my daughter's chair so I took a pic of my son's for the before and after on that page. Her chair looked the same except the seat was in better shape.

This is how the seat looks now. The chair is a very solid chair. Good structure and I like that it has casters on the bottom. What is wrong is the strips that they weave beneath the seat when making the chair are worn out and broken.

I purchased this seat strip stuff (sorry, I have no idea what it's called) at Wal Mart the other day. I was there and decided to see what clearance fabric they had. I wanted something inexpensive since it is covering a teenage boy's chair. Need I say more? Well, Wal Mart had this stripe fabric for $3.00 per yard. I think the stabilizer-strip stuff was $.67 per yard. Very inexpensive.

This weekend I am going to fix the bottom of the seat on this chair and make a simple slip cover for it. I'll share some pics when I have it done. I will also show how to fix the bottom of the seat.

Be Inspired!
Karol

Slip Covers Complete!

2010-04-29T23:00:00.005-05:00

I took pictures as I went along on this project, but to even think of explaining how I did this is overwhelming. Let's just say I am glad they are done and I don't have 1980's mauve chairs in my living room anymore! And they are totally removable and washable.

I used inexpensive muslin to make my pattern pieces. I also made the slip covers out of Osnaburg, which is a muslin fabric, but kind of looks like a linen. Osnaburg is very inexpensive and did well when I pre-washed and dried it.

Be inspired!
Karol :)

My Goodness!

2010-04-28T15:31:00.002-05:00

What a wonderful day.

I have been a guest poster on The Nester's Blog today:

http://www.thenester.com/2010/04/layering-to-create-a-cozy-outdoor-space.html

AND I am also on The DIY Show Off blog today, too! Roeshel is sharing my Shower How-To:

http://thediyshowoff.blogspot.com/2010/04/easy-outdoor-shower-tutorial.html

How exciting.

Thank you Nester and Roeshel for sharing my how-to's with your visitors. I am honored.

Be Inspired!
Karol :)

My Weekend Project...

2010-04-23T13:13:00.004-05:00

Finally. I am ready to slipcover these MAUVE wing back chairs that are in my living room. I purchased the fabric, it is pre-washed and dried. This will be my weekend project. I will post an update with pics when they are done.

Be Inspired!
Karol

Outside Shower DIY "How-To"

2010-04-19T22:17:00.032-05:00

Here's a quick step by step how-to for putting up your own shower. No plumber, electrician, handy-man, or building inspector needed. Just a list of things you'll need to get, a couple of tools, a few tips I'll share and about an hour of your time to put it all together.

Showers like these can be installed right outside your mudroom entrance (if you are lucky to have a mudroom) or on your porch, or wherever you want to rinse off before going inside. Near an outside water spigot is ideal since this how-to is for hooking your garden hose to it.

Below is a list of parts you will need. I went to Lowe's and purchased everything I needed. The person in the plumbing department helped me find every single part I needed and even showed me how to piece them all together. I wish I had written down her name. Next time I am there I am going to thank her for being so helpful.

A few things I want to specify.

I wanted my shower to be all metal/silver colored. But you can use pvc pipe or there's even a black pipe and if you want to get really fancy, copper! You can get all the fittings, shower head and lever to match. Can you imagine all black or all copper on certain homes? ...gorgeous!
You can use whatever type of shower head you would like. I wanted the rain shower type, but you can use a regular one or even a handheld one -which might come in handy for rinsing things off or even washing a dog.
There are different types of valves you can use, too. I wanted the pull chain kind because I wanted to be able to leave my water hose on and have the shower work whenever we pulled the lever. And I didn't want it to accidentally get left on so the pull-chain type valve works great because it shuts off when you let go of the chain. But you can also get the kind that you turn on and then turn off. Again, it's up to personal preference and needs.
The two most expensive parts are the shower head and lever/valve. If you can, shop around for the best deal on those. Everything else is very inexpensive.

Ok, now on to the supply list.

Things you will need:

SUPPLIES

(2) 1/2 inch in diameter sections of pipe. -two sections because the water valve goes in between so decided how tall you want your shower to be. I bought (2) 31" sections (the ends are already pre-threaded).
(2) 90° -1/2 inch pipe elbows
(1) 1/2 inch pipe coupling
(1) 1/2 inch brass hose bib
(1) 1/2 inch x 3 inch pipe nipple (a pipe nipple is just a short section of pipe with threads at both ends...just like the large pieces of pipe listed above)
(1) 1/2 inch x 6 inch pipe nipple (this is the section of pipe that determines how far out from the wall the shower head will be so choose the length you prefer).
(4) 1/2 inch 2-hole pipe straps
Exterior stainless wood screws (if attaching to wood, which is most likely)
Thread seal tape

TOOLS

Wrench (for tightening pipes together, but thread seal tape also helps assure a good seal)
Screwdriver to attach pipe straps to wall or post or whatever you are attaching your shower to. (preferably an electric or cordless drill or screwdriver which required less "elbow grease").

INSTRUCTIONS

Below I will explain how to put everything together (with pictures). I started at the bottom since the shower head should go on last (easier to handle and work with without shower head on).

First let's put the seal tape on the pipe threads. Wherever there are threads, apply some seal tape. Seal tape is not really tape but a super thin plastic strip that is stretchy and clings as you wrap it around the pipe threads. Wrap around a few times. This seals the pipes and fittings together better so there are no leaks. (Above) is what it should look like after you put seal tape on pipe thread (sorry for blurry pic).

Next, let's put some parts together. Attach the water valve to the bottom pipe. Turn as hard as you can to assure a tight seal. You can even use a wrench if needed. *If using a pull-chain valve, be sure you have the lever going the right way so if you turn it one way for on and one way for off. The pull-chain valve I bought works either way pulling up or down and rests in the middle for off. If it is the kind that turns one way for on and way way for off you might want to make sure you have it the correct way and on the side you want it on, too. It's mostly preference on that.

Then attach the upper pipe to the other end of the water valve and turn to make a tight seal. Again, use wrench if needed.

Now to the bottom pipe end attach the coupling and then the hose bib. Tighten as tight as you can get them. Especially the hose bib. (they tend to leak if not tightened good). The hose bib is what you attach your garden hose to.

Now we will work on the top part of the shower. Attach one of the 90° elbows to the pipe. Then attach the longer of the two pipe nipples to the elbow. As usual turn as tight as you can get it, but also so that the elbow is facing straight out (this is important!) away from the water valve so that the shower head is centered and out in "front" of the shower unit. If it is not completely tight, but you have it straight out in front like it should be it will be ok because you put seal tape on the threads.

Attach the other 90° elbow.
Attach the smaller pipe nipple.
Last, attach shower head to other end of pipe nipple

Now assembly is all done. Be sure shower head is positioned straight and water valve as well and you will be ready to attach the shower to post or wall.

Attach shower using pipe straps and screws. It is good to place a pipe strap at each joint. I put a pipe strap above and below the water valve at connections (see pic) since there will be a lot of pulling on this part with the water valve. I used 4 straps total.

Last, attach your garden hose to the coupling at the bottom and tighten as tight as possible. Then turn on the spigot and give your shower a try!

If anyone makes their own outdoor shower using my how-to, please write me and let me know. I would love to know.

Be Inspired (and handy, too)!

Karol :)

Outside Shower DIY Project

2010-04-18T21:33:00.006-05:00

I have been wanting an outside shower for over 3 years now. It is so nice to rinse off outside after a day at the beach or even just from working in the yard before heading inside. It's also nice to use to rinse things off under, too.

It was very simple to make and hooks right up to my garden hose. I chose a big rain shower shower head. Now I want one of these in my shower inside!

I even installed a pull-chain valve.

It took less than an hour total to complete and all the parts I picked up at Lowe's. They also have kits, but they were out today when I went there so I bought all the individual parts instead. That's the way I wanted to do it anyway.

There's a total of 9 parts, plus the four brackets I attached it to my porch beam with and then the pipe tape I had to purchase that makes sure all the pipes are sealed together good. The only tools I needed was my screw gun for the screws to attach it to the beam and a wrench to tighten a few of the pipes together.

Please let me know if you want to give this a try at your home. I would be glad to share a list of things you will need and how to do it.

Be Inspired!

Karol :)

Sprucing Up for Spring and Summer

2010-04-15T08:58:00.009-05:00

(*Newer Pic Added 4-19-10)

Spring has sprung and Summer is on its way! Time to spruce things up for spending more time outdoors and entertaining.

I had some down pillows on my wicker chairs from last year and they just needed some sprucing up. There's no need to buy new pillows when down pillows will last forever and never loose their loft. They just need a face lift. I had some coordinating Waverly fabrics that I was going to use on another project and decided to use on my pillows instead. Below is what they looked before. I just used two pillows as the bottom and back cushions.

I decided to make one pillow look more like a cushion bottom. After I made the bottom cushion I cut a large piece of "batting" from an old comforter I had in the attic and wrapped it round the pillow before inserting it into the new cushion cover I made. This gave it more thickness and filled in better. See pic below...

I then made a cover for the back cushion and even added some piping in the stripe pattern used in the bottom cushion....

This project only took a few hours to complete and I am very pleased with the results. I didn't do anything to the pillows inside so I can always change them back or make new covers for next year if I wish.

Be Inspired!

Karol :)

Multi-purposing Furniture

2010-03-31T15:59:00.008-05:00

I love using a piece of furniture for something other than what it was made for. It's just fun to do. And anytime I can use a piece of furniture for more than one purpose is even better! I have posted about my sofa table before (a long time ago), but wanted to share more.

From the front door, it just looks like I have a regular sofa table behind my sofa.

As you can see, it is also a nine-drawer mahogany dresser. Great for storage!

The left three bottom drawers I use to store tissue paper, wrapping paper, gift bags, ribbon and tags. So easy to find everything when I need to wrap a gift quick!

One of the drawers on the right I use for school supplies. During homework time, if my kids need paper, pencils, a folder...it's all right there in the drawer. Easy to find.

I hope this inspires you to consider multi-purposes for furniture.

Be Inspired,
Karol

Inspiring Chalkboards

2009-09-15T10:40:00.005-05:00

I have had this handy chalkboard shelf hanging in my guest bathroom for quite sometime. It's great for hanging towels on the hooks and also keeping part of my sheep collection together. We have a few chalkboards around the house and I like to write inspiring things on them. When using chalk on a chalkboard and especially in a bathroom (and with 2 kids) the chalk can get wiped off very easily.

I will share how to write beautiful things on chalkboards (and in really pretty fonts!) that are more durable, but still not permanent, so you can change them out whenever you want!

First of all just write out your inspiring saying, Bible verse, your last name, or whatever in Microsoft Word or whatever program you use to create documents. You can play around with the font and size until you get it just right. I will say now in hindsight, I should have put the words all the way across my chalkboard. The good thing is, I can always change it later if I want.

When you get your words just right for your chalkboard, generously rub white chalk on the back of your template.

Next, tape down your template to the chalkboard being careful not to smudge chalk on your chalkboard if possible. Then you will just need to use a pencil to trace the letters out. When you finish remove the template to see a light outline of your words. *I suggest you start from left to right to keep from smearing the letters you have already traced.

Rather than use chalk to fill in the words, I used a white colored pencil. It is durable, but can still be easily erased from the chalkboard when I want to write something new and inspiring.

If you want to put something permanent, you should use carbon paper instead of white chalk on the back of the template and then paint in your letters.

Be Inspired!

Karol

Choose Your Home Giveaway!

2009-06-25T10:44:00.007-05:00

This is the last week to choose and enter to win the Dream Home of your choice from Southern Living and MyHomeIdeas.com. Click on the links and take a tour of each home, learn more about its location and features. The photo above is the Sugarberry Cottage at Habersham in Beaufort, South Carolina.

This cute little cottage, the Caroline Jessamine, is located in Callaway Gardens. A beautiful place in Pine Mountain, Georgia.

This is a cute little cabin, Whisper Creek Cottage, in Asheville, North Carolina.

Or the lodge-style Cottonwood at the Traditions Club in Bryan, Texas.

Four Dream Homes in four Dream Locations. My favorite is the Habersham.

Good Luck!

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

All photos from www.myhomeideas.com

S'mores Cookies

2009-06-22T16:18:00.002-05:00

Loved this cookie idea I received in my inbox today from Martha Stewart's Cookie of the Day! What a fantastic idea for a cookie. Click on picture above or the following link to get the recipe:

http://www.marthastewart.com/recipe/smores-cookies?lnc=5a79cf380e1dd010VgnVCM1000005b09a00aRCRD&xsc=eml_cod_2009_06_22

Be Inspired!

Karol :0)

Organizing Old Paints

2009-06-09T12:10:00.003-05:00

What a great idea I found in my inbox this morning. Compliments of Martha Stewart's daily email. This is a great way to organize your paints and save space by throwing away the huge cans that may have just a little bit in the bottom. They would also last longer being in well-sealed plastic containers. I know my cans of paint never seal back tightly because I am such a messy painter and slop it all over the edge of the cans and then it dries! And plastic containers are SO much easier to open the next time.

Here's link to read more: Left Over Paint Storage

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Photograph courtesy of www.MarthaStewart.com

Home Office Space

2009-05-20T14:53:00.008-05:00

I was inspired by Nester's post today and wanted to share about my home office space. As I have shared many times, the rental home I live in is small. The bedrooms are small, the bathrooms are small, the living room/dining/kitchen area is awkward, open and small. I love the home and especially the location so it is worth it.

So when we moved here I had to find a place for my home office. At first it was downstairs in the multi-purpose room, over in the corner.

Later I decided to use an open space upstairs in the landing area. It was small and couldn't be used for much but a seating area which was what I originally used it for.

I moved my desk and chair up there and my magazine organizer (a must) and a dresser that disguises craft supplies, sketch pads, and printer paper, etc. It also serves as a table top area when I am working on something. I love to multi-purpose furniture!

I love this little area I claimed. It has double doors that lead out to my cozy balcony. I can open the doors on beautiful days like today, let the natural light in and feel the wonderful breeze that carries the smell of the ocean air.

I liked the note at the end of Nester's post where she commented on the paint color in her office area. Depending on the light and angle of each picture I took today of my office area, the paint color looks 3 or 4 different colors!

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Find Your Color

2009-05-14T20:45:00.003-05:00

I love these videos and articles on HGTV's website that show how to find your color and then how to add it to your home and accessorize with that color. Very helpful tips. Also on the page you can read more about "Take Your Color Quiz", "Top 10 Color Tips" and "Your Best Color Ideas" where you can check out colorful rooms uploaded to "Rate My Space".

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Photo from www.hgtv.com

Cheaper Magic

2009-05-12T15:13:00.008-05:00

First of all I cannot begin this post without apologizing for my absence. I have been busy with work (substitute teaching), my art and life things. Plus, sometimes I have not felt inspired enough to write something inspiring for others. Ever get like that?

Well, I do want to share a discovery with you that might save you some money and/or a trip to the store when you weren't planning on going.

One of the difficult things about living in a rental home is that the walls are usually all painted neutral, even white. When you have kids, it's not easy to keep the walls clean. I will admit that sometimes I scuff the walls carrying things up and down my stairway. It just happens.

Marks like these below. Not sure how they get there. I have used the Magic Erasers and they work great on lighter colored walls for scuff marks.

I went to clean scuff marks one day and realized I did not have anymore magic erasers. So I decided to give my Bar Keeper's Friend a try. I used a wet wash cloth and a bit of BKF and it did a fantastic job!

Take for instance, hand rails in your stairway! Just daily use of holding on to them as you walk up and down the stairway can get them quite dirty.

A quick scrub with some BKF and the railing is like new again!

Another thing that can happen near the hand rail is scuff marks from nail polish. These are from a recent visit from my friend, Dawn. I told her I was going to post about her nail polish on my stairway wall! :0) She always has her nails all done up girly in pink and even little decals on them sometimes.

Look, they came right off with some light elbow grease and a little BKF on a damp cloth.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Feathers & Eggs

2009-04-22T10:09:00.007-05:00

I totally misunderstood Nester yesterday when she said she was going to have a Mr. Linky Party and anyone who has purchased or won prints from L. Herbert Designs could post about it and link up. I was checking out the few links and admiring how others have used her beautiful prints and then I discovered that I do not actually have to HAVE the prints yet. One of the three qualifications was to post about where you would put them should you win some or purchase some art prints. Ohhhhhhh, now I understand.

A few months ago Nester inspired me to take a few minutes and make my master bathroom a place I would love. Well, I did it and it worked. I love my bathroom now. So have a few guests that have come to stay here recently.

I am slowly (unfortunately not in 10 minutes) working on my downstairs bathroom using that same inspiration from Nester. I took a photograph this morning of the wall I would love to display a coordinating set of L. Herbert Designs Prints.

See that plain blank wall to the left? That is right where I would love to hang the art prints. I am going for a cozy cottage look in this bathroom. I have a pretty berry wreath on the wall (far right) and a pretty eggs & nest framed art piece on the other wall with words from an Emily Dickinson poem. I bought that at Hobby Lobby a few years ago. I placed a pretty lamp on the counter. I think the L. Herbert Prints would go great in here! This is a very small bathroom so I had to stand in the bathtub to take this photograph!

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Books

2009-04-22T09:03:00.013-05:00

I love books. I love decorating books, cook books, autobiography books, fiction books, non-fiction books, books about organizing, books about homes, books about people, books about books, children's books, you name it. I love to have books displayed throughout my home. To me, it is comforting to be surrounded by books.

I also love to give books as gifts. I try to buy my nieces and nephews a few books every year. A great gift for a little one for their birthday is a cute set of pajamas and a few good bedtime books.

Above is a wooden basket on my desk where I keep books I am currently reading, refer to often, read daily or just want at my desk.

I also love bookends. I am always finding cute and unusual bookends at TJ Maxx and Home Goods. I should be getting paid for always mentioning those stores, huh?! At the top of my blog there's an adorable frog bookend, a lucky find at Home Goods one time. Then just above, I found these cute Mother Goose inspired bookends. They are metal, painted white and distressed.

I also have a cute cast iron Scotty dog door stop I use as a bookend for a few cook books I have out in my kitchen.

This week one of Martha Stewart's Craft of the Day ideas was to make handmade bookplates. I love the idea. I am going to make some up for my books and also make some up that I can put in books that I give as gifts.

If you don't want to make your own bookplates, but you love the idea, you can check out this Etsy shop >The Little Chickadee<>

I really love this one with the fox and crow. So sweet.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Country Living Magazine

2009-04-13T09:11:00.003-05:00

I am so happy that Country Living Magazine is still being published. The new issue is out and full of great ideas, stories and inspiration. They have a brand new editor and she is taking cues from readers on how to make Country Living a magazine everyone will love. This issue has something for everyone. I am very pleased with the changes and I hope Country Living will be around for a long time.

Country Living also has a wonderful website that is just a greater extension of the magazine. Lots of tips, past issue content, beautiful and inspirational photographs, contests to enter and more.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

He Is Risen

2009-04-12T08:07:00.003-05:00

He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. Matthew 28:6

Grouping

2009-04-09T10:27:00.004-05:00

I have received many compliments through the years about groupings in my home. Friends, family and visitors to my home have commented on the fact that I can have groupings around my home, but it does not look cluttered. Some tell me that they could never pull that off. I think they can and I tell them so. Do you feel that way?

I love grouping things on top of hutches and cupboards or on a shelf or on a table. If you look through any decorating magazine you will see groupings of items in the room. These items can be of like colors such as the grouping I have on top of my cupboard in the corner of my living room/kitchen area. None of the items are related, but they "go" together. Everything is either green, white or a combination of the two. Some greens are light, some are dark, but they all work together. Some of the whites are bright, some are cream, some are distressed. I have a bunny topiary on a finial, an old green lantern, a white birdcage, a cream colored pitcher, a green rooster figurine, and two pineapple candle sticks and a wooden mermaid. I think I may have forgotten to list a few things, but you get the point. None of the items are similar in use, but they look great group together. I added the rusty pineapple candle sticks for contrast.

Groupings can be made up of like items such as my sheep above. This shelf is in my downstairs bathroom and also serves as a towel holder. It's a great way to display my sheep collection I started years ago. It looks cute, but not cluttered.

One way to avoid a room looking cluttered, is to take 8 or 9 pieces you use in a room and group them rather than the 8 or 9 items scattered throughout the room. Also be sure the rest of the room is clean and simple. This takes your eye right to the groupings and the rest of the room looks great, too.

To de-clutter a little in my kitchen I found this lovely antique reproduction of a french soap box. I bought it at TJ Maxx. I was so happy to find that my two mason jar soap dispensers fit perfectly inside! In one jar I like to keep hand soap and the other dish soap. When both jars are neatly tucked in a cute soap box it makes the sink area seem less cluttered.

Don't be afraid to make groupings. Use magazines and decor websites for ideas and give it a try! Want some really great inspiration? Visit The Nesting Place. The Nester makes the most beautiful groupings EVER!

"Thrift"-y Decorating

2009-04-06T15:07:00.004-05:00

I wanted to share a recent find at the local Goodwill store. I don't stop in there often, but I do like to stop from time to time and see what is new. I bought this oil painting for $39.99. It measures 45" x 33". I hung it above my bed to tie in with all the ship pictures I have in my bathroom. I just love this painting. It is so peaceful and relaxing. And what a deal! The frame is so nice.

I have donated so many nice things to Goodwill through the years. I truly hope someone found a treasure when they found my donation. I realize that others do the same. You never know what you will find at a thrift store. I have read so many blogs where others have found some awesome furniture pieces or art.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Making A Simple Cozy Spot

2009-03-31T11:26:00.008-05:00

This is the rental home I live in. If you look upstairs you can see a small balcony. That balcony is just outside my office area upstairs. There are two double doors that lead out to the balcony. It actually wraps around to the side of the top floor, but the front is covered by a roof.

I have always wanted to make it more cozy and inviting to use for guests as well as myself.

Last week I started working on some curtains to hang on my balcony. I wanted to be able to close them if I wanted to or have them open as well. I always feel like curtains make a space warm and cozy. I have always said curtains are like hugs. They just wrap around the room and make it feel so warm and inviting. There's something comforting and cozy to me about curtains blowing softly in the breeze.

I purchased 4 queen size flat white sheets from Wal Mart. Very inexpensive. I found plastic grommets at Hobby Lobby in packs of 4. You simply use the template included with the grommets and mark where you want them. Cut out the center as instructed and simply snap the plastic grommet sides together to make a sturdy hole for the sheet/curtain tops. I then used simple silver shower curtain hooks that I put in the grommet holes to be able to hook them on the nails I put in the back of the wooden beams on my balcony.

I originally wanted to use spring curtain rods and just grommets and slide the curtains, but I could not find spring rods long enough for the front part of my balcony that is 12 feet wide. I then went to Lowe's and brainstormed some ideas. I could not find dowel long enough to make my own curtain rods so I then decided to use plastic coated wire and eye hooks and string the wire around the three sides. After I added the grommets to the sheets I was so excited to just see how they would look so I grabbed some large nails and a hammer and spaced the nails evenly with the grommets on the sheets and hung them. I am pretty happy with it just as it is. I don't have to worry about the wind blowing the curtains and having to slide them back, etc. I don't have to worry about the wire getting loose and having to tighten it. For now I am going to use the nails.

I like the white bed sheets because I used the top wide hem of the sheet to be the bottom hem of the curtains. There was no sewing involved. They looked finished just as they are hanging now.

I grabbed two wicker chairs from my porch downstairs, added some pillows, a quilt, a small table and lantern with candle and I now have a cozy, welcoming spot to sit and read and relax. I think my guests will find it inviting as well.

When it's windy or I am not out on the balcony, I can tie them back with ribbon. I also purchased one king pillow case that matches so I can make some matching tie backs eventually.

One thing I wish I would not have done is used grommets. Grommets are so permanent. Clip rings could have given me the freedom to use more or less, depending on how I wanted to hang them, I could make them shorter if I needed. I could have also used the sheets for something else later if I wanted.

The great thing about using sheets for something like this is you can just throw them in the washing machine and wash them whenever they need a good cleaning and if for some reason they get stained or torn, you just have to purchase another inexpensive sheet.

To make it even more cozy, I added a nice rug, a magazine holder with some favorite magazines, and coffee cups for two and the paper (WSJ) for the perfect start to every morning.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Beauty Tip

2009-03-24T19:05:00.004-05:00

What? A beauty tip from Home Sweet Home Inspiration? Trust me, I am no beauty or makeup expert, so this will probably be my only post on the matter. I have been so busy substitute teaching (my new job) the past few weeks, I have not had much time for a new home project, let alone blogging about it.

I just went for a 4 mile run this afternoon after I got home from subbing a 4th grade class of 19 students all day, then took my shower and as I was removing my waterproof mascara I decided I needed to share about the best eye makeup remover I have ever used.

I have tried the cream eye makeup removers, the Almay hypo-allergenic eye makeup remover, and several other kinds for sensitive skin. It seems that once I use a certain kind of remover for a few weeks, it starts to irritate the skin around my eyes.

I use waterproof mascara and it requires a good remover to get it off my eyelashes. I have found that the removers that actually remove waterproof mascara are also so harsh that they damage my eyelashes and they break off when removing my mascara.

One day as I was applying some silk split end mender (FX Special Effects Silk Drops, Split End Mender -about $5.00 at Wal Mart or Walgreens and a 4 oz. bottle will last FOREVER) to my hair I noticed how it reminded me of eye makeup remover. I decided to give it a try as that. I have been using it ever since -as split end mender for my hair, but primarily as my eye makeup remover. I use it every day for months and it has not irritated the skin around my eyes once.

Not only does it remove my eye makeup and waterproof mascara, but it also conditions my eyelashes and makes them stronger and longer. -Also works great on your hair, too. Which is what it is made for!

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

3-Step Decorating Makeovers

2009-03-19T06:07:00.002-05:00

LOVED this article on Better Homes & Gardens website. They take a room, or an area of a room, and show you the three step process to transforming it from bland to beautiful (and functional, too). There are several rooms featured, so go take a look. You may find some ideas to use in your own space.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Deceptively Delicious

2009-03-18T09:01:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite spots in TJ Maxx, Marshalls, or Home Goods (they are all the same company) is the cook book section. You can find some awesome deals on cook books. I bought this cook book Deceptively Delicious a few months ago. I only paid 6.99 at Home Goods for it! The cover price is $24.99. So, the first part of this post is about saving money on cook books by going to TJ Maxx, Marshalls and Home Goods.

Second, the cook book itself. The author is Jessica Seinfeld. -Jerry Seinfeld's wife. I love the cook book because she introduces her panel called the "Kitchen Cabinet" which includes herself, her husband Jerry, and their three children, Sasha, Julian, and Shepherd.

Every recipe, whether it be a sweet, a meat dish or a side dish, they all "deceptively" have veggies in them. Her cook book will give you tips on having purees ready in the freezer for use when needed. Her cook book explains all about vegetables, what is in them, what health benefits they have, how to puree them and so much more. Here's a few examples of veggies used in recipes...

Pancakes - 1/2 cup sweet potato puree

Peanut Butter and Banana Muffins - 1/2 cup carrot or cauliflower puree

Italian Meatloaf - 1/2 cup carrot puree

Blueberry Oatmeal Bars - 1/2 up spinach puree

See what I mean? I love this cook book. Jessica Seinfeld has a website for her book. By visiting the site, you can learn more about Jessica, her recipes, her cook book and there is an image gallery of some of the recipes in the book.

One of the cutest things about the cook book is the comments on some of the recipe pages. Some are from her children, some from Jerry Seinfeld, some from the author herself.

Mirrors

2009-03-17T13:01:00.003-05:00

This dresser is in my bedroom (hence the intruding foot board). I have been looking for a piece of art to hang above the dresser. I have wanted something that hangs tall. The wall seems so blank behind this dresser. I had an extra mirror and decided to place it behind the dresser, just leaning against the wall. It really reflects the light from the french doors to the right and brightens up the room. It also reflects the white pip berry arrangement and makes it look fuller.

Give this a try in a room where something is needed behind a piece of furniture. I think you'll like the results.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Button-Up Window Shade

2009-03-13T15:33:00.003-05:00

I love this idea from Martha Stewart's Craft of the Day. It's a "button-up" window shade. What a great idea. The MSL instructions are not very detailed and the picture above is the only one provided (says me, who makes a mile-long post with a gazillion pics about my window treatment in my kitchen!), but it is a very simple shape so it should not be too hard to make. I would think you could do this to a panel you might already have, too.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Fabric Love

2009-03-12T12:11:00.008-05:00

I have been trying to decide what fabric to use on my pink wing back chairs for months. I go back and forth on something toile (LOVE toile), but that limits the color, something floral for a more cottage look, something plaid just because I love plaid. I would like to get a new sofa someday and I want the fabric for these chairs to be colorful so it is easier to match with something else.

Yesterday I was at the Old Pottery store. They have a remnant table. $4.99 per yard, but you have to buy whatever the yardage is. I found a large remnant that I loved. The colors are rich, but also in softer tones.

The patterns are kind of formal floral, but when you study it, you will see fun things going on.

It's almost a Dr. Seuss look with the stripes added in the veins of the leaves and in some flower petals. So fun!

I also adore the wooden branches that wind through the fabric.

This fabric has every color imaginable. This weekend I am going to Joann's and shop for a large plaid for the sides of the seat cusions and inside flaps of the skirts and fronts of the arms and another coordinating fabric for the piping.

I hope to start recovering (not slipcover) my chairs this weekend or beginning of next week. I will share a How-To soon.

Next will be my son's chair in his room.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Cast Your Vote!

2009-03-11T10:14:00.004-05:00

How fun! My Home Ideas.com has an exciting Room Challenge. You can cast your vote for the best room.

Starting next month you can enter your room to win.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Window (Mis)Treatment How-To

2009-03-10T10:03:00.000-05:00

I took this picture the next morning after I posted about the new window (mis)treatment I made. I wanted to show that it has a nice contrasting fabric on the back. So when gathered up or rolled up (as I did for this photo) and tied, it looks great. It also looks great from the outside, which is important to me as well. It is always worth it to take the time to make a window treatment lined if you plan on keeping it there for a while.

As I looked through my pictures I took as I was making this treatment I began to realize I should have taken more pictures. I hope that with the info I share and the few pictures I took, you will get a good idea of how to make one of these (mis)treatments for your own window.

Let me just say if you are a sewer that requires things to be exact, or the thought of sewing something without pinning it first is frightening, stop now. Please do not read any further on this post.

Now, for those of you who don't want a long, tedious tutorial, then this is for you. Just remember I like to do things quickly without all that silly pinning and measuring exact and I make things up as I go along, but I also like to pay attention to some detail to make my curtains looks nice. Nice enough for someone to ask where I got them. I really hope this helps you get the same results.

Let's get started...

1) You will need two or three (or more!) coordinating fabrics of your choice. I chose three. A pretty floral, a coordinating stripe and a cute plaid.

2) Decide how you will use your fabrics for the window treatment. Which fabric will be the the main print, which will be the back and ties and which will be the cording trim. I chose the floral as the main front fabric, the stripe for the back (which will be seen when rolled up and also from outside the window), the same stripe for the ties and the cute plaid for the piping.

3) Measure your window. Add three inches to each side. That will be the measurements for how large your fabric pieces will be cut out to. My window measures 36" L x 35" W so I cut my two main fabrics 42" L x 41" W.

4) Cut a piece of piping the width of your fabrics cut. Piping?!, you say? Have you ever added piping to something? Give it a try! It is quite simple and really finishes a window (mis)treatment or pillow, etc. You can find piping at any fabric store. It comes in different sizes, depending on the size of piping you want. The piping I purchased only cost $.29 per yard. Very inexpensive. I decided I just wanted piping at the bottom edge of the window treatment so I cut a piece of piping 41" wide.

5) Next, cut a piece of fabric you have chosen for your piping that is the same length as the piping fabric and 2" wide. Mine was 41" L x 2" W. Nothing exact, just cut it so it can be folded over the piping and sewn with enough seam allowance left to be sewn into the window (mis)treatment seam. Fold the fabric over the piping, right side out. A good tip is to also sew a top stitch at each end after you have sewn in the piping. Just to make sure the piping does not slip out or move around later when you are sewing it into the window (mis)treatment seam.

6) Your piping should look something like this. See, very simple.

7) Next begin sewing your panels together, starting at the top, on one of the long sides, right sides together.

8) When you get near the bottom, stop and add in your piping that will go along the bottom. If you have never sewn piping into anything, just remember the seam of the piping goes right along with the seam that you will be adding it to.

9) Next, begin sewing to the bottom. Square your corner and begin sewing along the seam making sure the piping seam is right along the edge as well. Since I am lazy and always in a hurry when making things like this, I did not pin this, but if you feel more comfortable pinning... pin away, then sew the seam.

10) Square your corner again and sew up the other side, leaving the top open.

11) Before turning right side out, clip your corners. Always clip corners. It makes nicer corners on window (mis)treatments, pillows, duvet covers, or whatever you are making.

This is what the seam looks like at first. If you like this look you can keep it like this. Read below for what to do next if you like a tighter piping seam.

12) One of the things I didn't do when adding my piping to the bottom seam was to change my sewing machine foot to a one-legged foot so it would allow for the piping thickness and a close stitch along the seam. If you like changing the feet on your sewing machine, then you can do that. What I do instead is just do another seam over the top once the piping is in place. I sew as close as I can to the piping without sewing into the actual piping string. As in the picture above.

13) Turn window (mis)treatment right side out and take a look. This is how the seam will look if sew closer to the piping as I instructed above. Doesn't it look so nice?

14) After turning right side out and admiring the fabrics all sewn together, make sure your corners are square, use a boning tool or scissors (but be careful not to push through the fabric!) to push out the corner seams square. They won't be perfectly square with the piping in the seam, but just do your best. They look nice with the piping.

15) Press, press, press. This is such an important step. Press all of your seams all the way around. Come on, it only takes a few minutes. Can you tell I love to iron?

16) Just as important as pressing the seams, is top stitching ALL the seams. This makes a huge difference in making window (mis)treatments. Not only does it give them a professional, finished look, they last longer and are more sturdy, especially if you will be opening them and closing them on the window often or washing them. Go ahead, finish the seams all the way around. It only takes a few minutes and it is SO worth it.

17) Next, you will need to make the ties for this window (mis)treatment. You will need to cut four strips of fabric that are the same length as your window fabric cut and 7" W. So, my tie pieces were 42" L x 7" W.

18) With right sides together, sew the length of the ties. Sides only. Turn right side out and center the seam so it is in the center back. See picture above. Note that I specify where the seam is in the picture because the fabric is striped and it is difficult to see. Press the four ties flat so the center seam stays in the back center. At the bottom of the tie, tuck the open end in so it can be top stitched and finished. Press in place as well.

19) Top stitch the four pressed ties on all four sides. Terrible picture, but you can see how the front of the ties look after pressed and top stitched.

20) One of the last steps is to sew your ties to the window (mis)treatment. Measure in approx. 12" on each side and pin two ties to the front and pin the last two ties to the back of the (mis)treatment in the same place, pinning all in place (yes, pin, it helps hold them in place). Sew across the top of thew (mis)treatment, sewing all the ties to the top. Remove pins.

21) Last, fold the window (mis)treatment over at the top about 1 inch and sew a simple seam across. Then fold over about 3 inches and sew across once more to make the rod pocket. That's it!

I used a spring-y curtain rod to hang my kitchen window (mis)treatment. Since I wanted mine to hang inside the window, I tucked the ends of the (mis)treatment around the ends of the rod and then put the spring rod in the window. It comes down to personal preference and your window when deciding what type of rod you want to use and whether you want to hang it on the outside of the window opening, or inside the window opening. You can then decide if you want to roll up your (mis)treatment or fold it up accordion style and then tie. Have fun with it!

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Do you like graphics?

2009-03-08T18:31:00.006-05:00

I have been so inspired with Spring just around the corner and some redecorating I am doing here in my own home. I created a new graphics set at http://www.hshpgraphics.com/hshpSpringNest.htm.

*Suzanne made a good point. I have kept my graphics and blogging so separate that I did not even think of this. If you want to purchase this new set and you need a custom header, just email me. I would be glad to make up something larger as a header on your blog.*

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

My Kitchen Hutch

2009-03-04T20:03:00.009-06:00

(before & after)

I painted my hutch green over red. I then sanded the edges to give it an aged look. I changed out the 80's hardware with some cute handles and pulls I found at Lowe's.

I love the new colors in my kitchen. It has encouraged me to go lighter and brighter and more cottage in my decor.

Thanks to everyone that has followed as I have decided on colors and ideas, painted for weeks, and posted detail after detail.

Roxanne commented (so very sweetly) on this color I used on my hutch and requested the color code. I thought I would share here. I bought the paint at Wal Mart mostly because I happen to be there for other things and I thought "what the heck", found a great color I liked in the paint swatches and had it mixed.

Paint Brand: Wal Mart ColorPlace Interior Latex Satin Wall & Trim (Accent Base 37142)

Color: Basil 94282

Codes: C 2 46, D 30, KX 7 44, L 2

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Etched Glass Storage Jars

2009-03-04T09:35:00.007-06:00

I LOVE these! Aren't they fabulous? They look great as storage jars in the kitchen or bathroom, but I was also thinking about gifts. Especially teacher gifts. A nice jar with their name etched on it would be so nice for them to use on their desk.

The jars above are called cracker jars. They can be purchased at Wal Mart in several different sizes.

Click Here to go to Martha Stewart's Craft of The Day for this great idea.

***After a comment from Mrs. D Lightful about an etched baking dish as a gift, I wanted to add to my post. What a great idea for a gift. Wouldn't it be great to receive a pie dish or baking dish as a gift with your name etched on it? Thanks Mrs. D Lightful for visiting my blog, your comment, and great idea! ***

Photo credit: MarthaStewart.com

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

To Age or Not to Age

2009-03-03T11:10:00.009-06:00

This morning I was sanding a few spots on the top part of my kitchen hutch project and decided to see what it would look like "aged". I really like how it looks with the corners and edges sanded lightly. It shows the red paint through. (You can click on the top photo for a larger image)

I used a 3M 180 grit foam sanding block to sand the edges and corners of my hutch. The foam sanding blocks work great because they bend around edges and corners nicely and they have sandpaper all around so they last a long time.

I will share the finished hutch later this week. I am also working on the how-to for my kitchen window treatment.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Kitchen Window "Treatment"

2009-02-26T14:50:00.010-06:00

I have lived in this (rental) home for almost 2 years. The window above my sink looks out to the side yard full of magnolia trees, pine trees, oak trees and palmetto plants. It's a beautiful view. For some reason there were no blinds on this window when we moved here. I have wanted to make a window treatment for this window, but I could never really decide what I wanted.

While at Joann's last weekend I found some fabric on clearance. I had decided I would recover some cushions for the furniture on my front porch. Then I also thought about using these fabrics to recover or slipcover my pink wingback chairs that I haven't gotten around to dealing with yet. Below is a photo I took just trying out the fabrics to see if they would look good on the chairs.

Then today, on a whim, I decided to use the fabrics to make a window treatment for my kitchen window. The colors are perfect in the kitchen. They match great with the blue walls and really tie in the basil green and yellow I am painting my hutch in.

I would love to say this was a quick no-sew window "mistreatment" (as Nester would call it), but it was a sewing project. It took me about 2 hours to make. If anyone would happen to be interested, I will share the basic steps next week in detail. If you sew at all you can make these. It really is quite simple to do.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Kitchen Hutch Update

2009-02-25T18:47:00.004-06:00

Moving right along. I am loving the yellow inside.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Curtain Mistreatment

2009-02-25T10:35:00.007-06:00

These are the Waverly curtains I bought for my living room a few months ago. Remember my post about using a tablecloth for a curtain? Well, when I was at TJ Maxx and thought of that great idea, I only purchased one of the pretty green/yellow/blue/cream plaid tablecloths. So after experimenting and then posting my idea I needed three more. I went to two other TJ Maxx stores and cannot find anymore in that design. So, if any of you decide to use tablecloths as curtains, be sure you purchase as many as you need at once.

Back to the Waverly curtains I have up now. I love them. I love the rich colors and how I can pull those colors from the curtains with colorful accessories and other fabrics in the room.

I purchased this plaid fabric and added an easy mistreatment to the top of my curtains. So simple to do. I just clipped the piece in the ring clips with the curtain top. I love it. I love that touch of red at the top. It makes the curtains look more substantial. I feel it makes the room even more cozy.

* I will post in a few days about my hutch. The paint is drying. I decided on the new hardware I will replace on it. *

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Painting My Kitchen Hutch

2009-02-24T12:16:00.005-06:00

Finally. I am painting my kitchen hutch. It took FOREVER to decide on a color. I appreciate everyone's ideas and votes for a color. The blue/green color I had originally decided on seemed it may be too much blue/green for my kitchen. My kitchen walls are almost turquoise. The counter tops are the same. Not a color I have ever had in my color scheme. But since I am renting, I cannot change the colors.

I decided on a greener color called "Basil". Even the color sounds nice for the kitchen, doesn't it? In the photo above you can see how it actually makes the walls look more blue. Which I was hoping for. I am going to use that yummy butter color some of you voted for on the inside of the top hutch.

Are some of you freaking out seeing the hinges painted? Well, I would have taken the doors off and removed all the hinges, but the hinges were already painted red.

I will share some progress photos tomorrow.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Craigs List and My New Bench

2009-02-23T00:01:00.002-06:00

Have you ever listed or bought something on Craigs List? This weekend I bought this bench from Craigs List. I LOVE it. I have always wanted a bench like this. There are tons of awesome deals on Craigs List.

Craigs List (if you haven't heard of it) is like the want ads in your local paper. You can search for items in your local area. There are free listings, for sale listings, garage sale listings, swap/trade listings, even listings of things people are wanting.

You just have to use common sense when it is time to make the purchase or sale. Just like you would if you had an item for sale in the paper or were having a garage sale. I have sold a few things from storage and I always stop at the storage facility office and tell them I am meeting someone. I never give out any of my personal info. Never.

I just had to share about my new bench. I love old furniture. I had the perfect spot for this bench. Can you believe I have about 2 1/2 inches to spare on each side? It was difficult to get the bench in that spot, but it is staying there.

Be Inspired! Karol :0)

10 Minutes To My Bathroom That I Love (Now)

2009-02-18T14:39:00.021-06:00

(Before)

I live in a rental home at the beach. Which means two things: I can't change the paint colors and all of the rooms are very small. Especially my bathroom. This is the master bathroom. One small sink and a tiny counter space area. I think because of the size I haven't really tried to make it look nice.

(After)

After reading Nester's post with simple steps on how to make a bathroom more inviting and cozy I was instantly inspired to do something about my bathroom.

I decided to keep the overall color scheme light with white and off-white accents. The art is the only thing with strong color. This keeps the room feeling clean, neat and not so small.

I added a whale weather vane (isn't he adorable?!) and a glass container with shells and driftwood I already had. I added a lamp (as she suggested) for more cozy lighting. I would not have even considered a lamp until I read Nester's post. I guess I didn't think I would have room on my counter. I used a small buffet lamp. It fits perfectly in the corner where it is.

I had several ship paintings that I decided to display in the bathroom. I also like having lots of fluffy white towels for myself and guests.

I added a pretty silver tray to my counter to put my jars on and just used hemp twine to bundle a stack of washcloths together with a tiny starfish.

To keep the extra cord together and out of sight (as best as I could) I grabbed a piece of scrapbook ribbon with adhesive on the back and wrapped it around the cord. Looks kind of pretty.

I added a shelf I had in another room to the wall behind my toilet for a nice visual display. I added some candles, a vase and a topiary I had in the attic. I plan on adding small sea shells to the topiary later. It looks so much nicer than just the ship painting alone.

I will be honest and say it took a little longer than 10 minutes to get from the before to the after, but I am the type that works on a room in several steps. I like to walk by and see how it looks each time I add a few things. I will change something or think of something else I can add "here" or "there".

Thanks to Nester and her endless inspiration and experience, I am now working on my guest bathroom downstairs.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Are you ready to Par-TAY?

2009-02-18T09:06:00.006-06:00

For several weeks now Nester has been offering a Monday series called "10 Minutes to a Room You'll Love". Tomorrow is the big day we fans/students get to have -show and tell- and post about a room we've changed in 10 minutes.

Is there a room you want to love, but haven't taken the time to spruce it up? Go grab some things from around the house and follow Nester's tips to make it a room you'll love -in 10 minutes!

I decided to work on my master bathroom which I did not love and I wanted to love. I can't wait to share the easy, quick things I did to make it a room I now love.

Tomorrow is the big day (the party) to share a link to your post on her blog and share what you have done. Don't forget to grab one of the cute buttons to put on your blog, too. If you don't have time to make up a room (come on, it's only 10 minutes!), maybe seeing others ideas will give you even more inspiration to do something to a room that needs a special touch.

See you tomorrow!

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Decorating Inspiration

2009-02-17T11:19:00.006-06:00

Going through my email this morning I recieved one from Better Homes & Gardens. I followed the link Fabulous Room Makeovers for Every Budget. I ended up browsing around on BHG's website and found some room makeovers by Stephen Saint-Onge. He does a fabulous job with makeovers.

You can visit Stephen's beautiful website and see more of his awe-inspiring makeovers as well as learn a little more about him and what inspires him.

Speaking of inspiration. If you have been visiting The Nesting Place on Mondays, maybe you've been inspired to begin a makeover in one of your rooms. Thanks to Nester, I have been working on my master bathroom. Actually both bathrooms in my home. Nester is inviting everyone to share their makeovers Thursday on her site. I can't wait!

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Cheddar Pepper Straws

2009-02-13T08:33:00.007-06:00

I made these this morning for a teacher's luncheon at my daughter's school. I wanted to share the recipe. Consider variations; cheddar and course ground pepper (which is what I made above), Cinnamon and sugar and you could also add some apple jelly or apple butter with the cinnamon and sugar (yum!), pepperoni and mozzarella cheese, or how about cheddar and crumbled bacon with some basil. There are so many ways to make them. The basic recipe from Pepperidge Farms is below. Enjoy!

Parmesan Cheese Twists

Thaw: 30 minutes
Prep: 20 minutes
Bake: 10 minutes

Twisted Pepperidge Farm® Puff Pastry strips laced with Parmesan cheese, parsley and oregano are easy to make for dinner to accompany a steak and Caesar's salad. Make ahead and freeze; remove directly from freezer to oven to bake.

ingredients

1/2 pkg. Pepperidge Farm® Puff Pastry Sheets (1 sheet)
1 egg
1 tbsp. water
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
1/2 tsp. dried oregano leaves, crushed

directions

THAW pastry sheet at room temperature 30 min. Preheat oven to 400°F. Mix egg and water. Mix cheese, parsley and oregano.

UNFOLD pastry on lightly floured surface. Roll into 14"x10" rectangle. Cut in half lengthwise. Brush both halves with egg mixture. Top 1 rectangle with cheese mixture. Place remaining rectangle over cheese-topped rectangle, egg-side down. Roll gently with rolling pin to seal.

CUT crosswise into 28 (1/2") strips. Twist strips and place 2" apart on greased baking sheet, pressing down ends. Brush with egg mixture.

BAKE 10 min. or until golden. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Makes 28 appetizers.

TIP: To make ahead, twist strips. Place on baking sheet and brush with egg mixture. Freeze. When frozen, store in plastic bag for up to 1 month. To bake, preheat oven to 400°F. Place frozen strips on greased baking sheet. Bake 15 min. or until golden.

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Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Absolutely-No-Sew Curtain Panels for $7.99 each

2009-02-12T09:29:00.010-06:00

With spring just around the corner wouldn't it be nice to just switch out your curtain panels to something light and fresh for spring? Well, curtain panels can be quite expensive, but I want to share a very affordable way to do that. Not only are they affordable, but there's no sewing needed and they are so versatile.

Above, I have hung this panel with an approx. 18" fold-over at the top. If you like it a little poofier you can use Nester's "Fold, Clip and Poof" method, as I did in the photo below.

I think I like the poofier top to the panel. What do you think? Now, let's get to how I made this panel...

I purchased this cotton oblong tablecloth at TJ Maxx the other day. Yes, I used a tablecloth as a curtain panel!

I purchased the largest one I could find. This one measures 60" x 102". I measured the Waverly curtain panel I took down to hang this panel and it only measures 50" wide. Using a panel that is 102" long or longer allows you to make a nice topper on your valance using the fold-over method or the Nester's method I mentioned and linked to above.

The great thing about using a tablecloth is that all the sides are already hemmed. I paid $7.99 for this tablecloth. So for my living room I can change out the curtains for less than $40.00! I paid more than $40.00 per panel for the Waverly panels I have in there now.

And later if I want to change them out again (using tablecloths, of course), I can always use these for something else. I can use them as tablecloths. Wouldn't they look great to take on a picnic or to use on a table outside to have dinner outside on a beautiful Summer evening? I could also use these as fabric later for slipcovers. There are so many uses. A great buy all around.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

TJ Maxx

2009-02-11T10:03:00.004-06:00

I miss Home Goods. It is my favorite store. The next best thing is TJ Maxx. They are the same company. I like TJ Maxx. They have great prices on designer name clothes, but they also have a lot of nice home goods. I bought a few things last weekend at TJ Maxx and I will share about them this week.

Above, I bought this lovely cake plate. Isn't it beautiful? $7.99! What a deal. I can't wait to serve a layered cake on it. I will always keep it out, even when I am not serving something on it.

Tomorrow I will share an idea for some absolutely-no-sew curtains for $7.99 per panel.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

ClosetMaid Organizing Labels

2009-02-04T09:39:00.013-06:00

This is my little space in my closet I have made for my scrapbooking supplies. I love these ClosetMaid storage/shelf units. The collapsible fabric cube bins are perfect to store scrapbook and craft supplies. I have been using these for about 5 years now. I like to have the bins labeled so I can find things quickly and easily. I also have a little crafter (9 year old daughter) that likes to use my supplies sometimes so it also makes it easier for her to find things AND to put them back where they belong.

I just came up with a great way to label the fabric cubes so they will "stay". Before, I used my print out labels from my label maker, as below:

Before

Because of the fuzzy type of fabric the ClosetMaid cubes are made of, print out labels do not stay on. Slowly they begin to curl up and then fall off.

After

I decided to print out labels and adhere them to the cubes with velcro dots. I will share how to do that below.

First you will need a few packages of velcro, hook & loop, or Scotch Reclosable Fasteners. There are so many names for them, but you know what I mean. I bought the Scotch Reclosable Fasteners at Wal Mart in the fabric/crafts department.

Next, just make your labels anyway you like on paper. I typed the labels using Word and printed them on white cardstock. I cut them out with my paper cutter the same size 2" x 4" each. I then cut out black cardstock rectangles about 1/8" larger than the white and glued the white cards to the black. I then laminated them. You don't have to laminate them if you don't have a laminator, but it makes them sturdier and last longer. Especially if you are going to be pulling the bins in and out all the time like I do.

*Did you know you can buy a great laminator ("Duck" brand) at Wal Mart for less than $30.00? You would be surprised how much you would use it if you had one. They are great for school projects, labeling, scrapbooking.*

Next, you will only need the "hook" only sheets from the package.

Save the "loop" only sheets of dots. They work great on the bottom of your kitchen chairs if you have tile or wooden floors. They also work great as furniture protectors under lamps and vases. You can also use them on the backs of framed art to protect the walls.

Just put four loop dots on the back of each label and stick them on the cubes. The great thing is you can move them around, change them out, they are not permanent.

Ahhhhhh. Now everything is organized AND labeled nicely. I can go on about my day.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Sad News for Magazine Lovers

2009-02-03T10:51:00.012-06:00

If I could only choose one magazine out of all the magazine I love, Country Home would be the one. Every issue is inspiring from the front cover to the very last page. I was sad to read an article yesterday that had a list of magazines that are closing. I went to Country Home's website to read that they will no longer be publishing Country Home Magazine. I do believe they are going to keep their website so I will still be able to enjoy the inspiration from Country Home. I will miss flipping through the pages whenever I please though. I will miss seeing Country Home on the news stands.

I was just as sad to read in the same article that another magazine I really love, Cottage Living is no longer publishing. In fact, on their site it says the December/January issue was their last. Luckily they have a wonderful website with all their other magazines included and I will be able to visit there. Still, there's nothing like leafing through Cottage Living for inspiration. I love the travel section and the very inspiring cottages they feature.

And where have I been? SoBella Creations commented on this post and said she was sad to see Mary Engelbert's Home Companion was no longer in print. WHAT? How did I not know? I have noticed there hasn't been a new issue out and I keep seeing the Christmas issue everytime I look, but I guess I just wasn't paying attention. How sad. I loved this magazine and the very interesting artists she featured and interviewed in each issue. Well, I did read on ME's site that she holds rights to the magazine and may find a future publisher. Let's hope.

Domino is another magazine that will no longer be published. I didn't buy this one often, but it really is/was a great magazine. Lots of simple, stylish living ideas and inspiration. I am sure it will be missed by many.

In the same article there were a few other magazines named that I wasn't worried about personally and a "rumor" that Martha Stewart Living's Editor resigned. The article went on to say that he may have been let go and the magazine might end publishing. Just a "rumor" for now. I did not see anything on MSL site that says anything about the magazine. In fact, right now you can subscribe and get the free tote bag I received with my subscription last year.

With recent news of some major newspapers closing, I am sure I will be reading about more magazines doing just the same. I know it is the economy, but for some it is also the result of the internet and how easier and cheaper it is to publish to a website. And with laptops being so popular, one can just sit in their favorite chair or at a corner cafe and look at a website or news article online just as easily as a magazine.

Still, there's nothing like a real magazine newspaper for me.

Be Inspired. -Karol :0)

A New Project

2009-02-02T09:15:00.011-06:00

I have a new project I am going to begin working on this week. A little kitchen hutch I had in storage that I did not want to part with. It will work perfect at the edge of my kitchen to keep my cookbooks in the top and use the bottom as a buffet area when needed. I will keep linens in the drawer and some counter top appliances in the bottom area until needed.

A while back I shared about another hutch I replaced the broken glass in the doors with chicken wire. Don't worry, I did not replace that hutch with this one! I moved that hutch to the corner of my open living/dining/kitchen area.

Now I am trying to decide on a color for the kitchen hutch. I am renting so I can't change the color of my kitchen (unfortunately). We'll just ignore that color. I try so hard to.

Whatever color I paint this hutch, I am going to distress it and give it a nice antique wash and change out the hardware with something more vintage. I will share some pics and how-to's.

Now, if I can just decide on a color.....

Love this green.
White works with everything.
I love this buttery yellow.

I also like this green/blue color.

And, red. I love red. I just cannot live without red in my decor. I also like the hardware on this cabinet.

I need help. I would love your opinion!

Be Inspired. -Karol :0)

Pollen!

2009-01-29T19:43:00.005-06:00

I've been a little under the weather the past few days. Pollen is thick here where I live right now. Today I walked out to check the mail and I could see it floating in the air. The predominant pollens here right now are Cedar and Juniper. I am allergic to cedar pollen.

The photograph above is my windshield from one afternoon this week as I was leaving to pick up my kids at school.

I thought I would do an entry with some allergy info. Do you have allergy symptoms during certain times of the year? Did you know you can go to http://www.pollen.com/ and type in your zip code and find out your pollen forecast? You can also explore the site and learn about plants, trees, weeds, grasses indigenous to your region.

If you experience severe allergy symptoms you ought to consider visiting an allergist. They can test you for every plant, tree, weed, grass, mold, food, animal. I had this test taken about 7 years ago when I lived in Albany, GA. I was so sick and decided to find out what I was getting sick from. Come to find out I am allergic to Pecan trees. Well, Georgia is the pecan capital of the world I think.

I also found out from this test that I am allergic to food: bananas, soy (yes, that's right, soy), animals: cat hair, cat pelt, weeds: dock/sorrel, lamb's quarter, marsh elder, pig weed, trees: pecan, cedar, cottonwood, sweetgum, sycamore, walnut, molds: monilia/neurospora, and rhodotorula sp.

Some of the things from that list do not bother me at all. Soy, however, does so I have to try to avoid it as much as possible. I believe the more of the things on the list that my body is exposed at once the worst my allergies can be.

I know this isn't about decorating or cooking, but I like to share information that others can use, too. Maybe you or someone in your home suffers occasionally from allergies. It's always good to check the pollen count in your area to know when to take allergy medicine as a preventative.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Valentine's Day Workshop

2009-01-26T15:55:00.006-06:00

MarthaStewart.com is hosting a Valentine's Day Workshop. It begins February 2 so sign up now if you are interested. During this two week online course you will learn techniques to create handmade cards, gifts, and treats for loved ones.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Household Tips 1-5

2009-01-23T01:00:00.001-06:00

Ok, I have been very busy this week and I haven't had time to really "decorate" or share any home projects. I will say I do have a weekend project I'd like to share about soon and get some opinions on. For now, I thought I would just share some household tips that I know. These are not ones I have googled and copied. These are ones that I was either taught or discovered on my own. Feel free to comment and share any tips you may have.

1) To get small ink stains out of clothing, pretreat the ink spots with rubbing alcohol. My son has left pens in his pockets several times and they have made their way into the dryer and the pen ink has leaked all over an entire load of clothes. IN THE DRYER! Just pretreat the spots with rubbing alcohol and wash immediately. This should get rid of most ink spots. Unless the pen just leaked out mostly on one item, then just discard that item instead. You can also get the dried pen ink out of your dryer by using a paper towel and a dab of rubbing alcohol. Be sure to wipe out the dryer again with a damp cloth. P.S. if you have a teenager, buy the big bottle of rubbing alcohol! Oh, and check their pockets before you load the washer.

2) Rubbing alcohol also removes permanent marker from solid surfaces such as furniture and glass. Just test a small area first.

3) Greased lightening is the best laundry pre-treat ever! It is also a good cleaner. Just be sure to read the label for surfaces that it could damage such as aluminum, etc. It is great for a laundry pre-treat. It works on red Georgia clay in socks and clothing, tea, coffee (works great to clean coffee stains from your coffee pot and counter), blood, sweat/dirt from athletic clothing, and it will also clean floors real well when other cleaners cannot do the job. In fact, I buy it in the large refill jug and add a 1/4 cup to each load of my wash. I have used OxyClean in the past, but have never seen it live up to its claims. Especially linoleum floors with tiny crevices. Speaking of floors I use it to remove spots from my Suburban's beige carpet (I have two kids) and even in my home on the carpet. It will get rid of all types of stubborn stains in carpet.

4) Bar Keeper's Friend is fantastic for cleaning stainless steel sinks, also white sinks, and stoves. It works great for cleaning your pans under your electric stove top coils. It is non abrasive and does not contain bleach like some powder cleaners do.

Have you ever purchased one of those magic eraser sponge things? I really believe that it has Bar Keeper's Secret as the cleanser. Whenever I need to clean a mark on a painted wall I use a damp washcloth and a bit of Bar Keeper's Friend and lightly scrub the spot and it cleans right off!

5) To remove melted crayon from a car seat or carpet, first try to get as much of the crayon off the surface as possible. Next spray a small amount of DW-40 on the area and try to "lift" as much of the crayon as you can. The DW-40 will begin to dissolve/break down the crayon wax. Clean up as much of it as you can. Next to remove the oily DW-40, clean the area with a good grease-cutting dish washing liquid, such as Dawn. It really works!

I will share more tips in the future.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Hello, Cupcake!

2009-01-21T02:00:00.000-06:00

I remember the days when my son was in Kindergarten. He was my first child and just starting school. I wanted to do all I could to help out in his class and be involved at his school. I told Ms. Wilson, his teacher, that I would love to make cookies anytime for the class. And I did. I made alphabet cookies and Jaguar paw print cookies (for the Jacksonville Jaguars) and hands in different skin pigments for Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday and hearts for Valentine's Day. And that continued on until he went on to Middle School. During that time my daughter began school and I made cookies a few years for her classes. I haven't made cookies like that in a few years now. I have hundreds of cookies cutters, dozens of Wilton cake decorating tips and icing bags and accessories. I think I finally got burned out from all the baking and decorating.

I was in Books A Million with my daughter Monday and I saw this book and couldn't resist. Makes me want to break out my Wilton stuff.

The new trend is cupcakes. They even have a chain of shoppes now that sell and serve cupcakes. I know several moms who have made or ordered cupcakes instead of the traditional birthday cake for their child's birthday celebration.

This book has some of the most clever ideas for decorating a cupcake! The fanciest I ever gotten with cupcakes are the owl cupcakes I made last year and it was also one of my first posts on my blog. Nothing compared to the ideas in this book.

Like the Shark Attack cupcakes. The shark bodies are twinkies!

Or how about these adorable panda bears...

Or Van Gogh's Starry Night!

This book is available at all the major bookstores, in store and online. Definitely worth it for inspiration and instruction.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

All photos from the book Hello, Cupcake! by Karen Tack & Alan Richardson

Spinach and Mushroom Quesadillas

2009-01-20T00:01:00.001-06:00

I wanted to share a recipe with you that I have made a few times now and my kids and I love it! This recipe and photo above comes from Martha Stewart. CLICK HERE or on the photo above for the recipe and instructions.

Since I have made them a few times I will share some ideas/tips. First of all, the recipe tells you to flip the quesadilla over half way through the baking process. Well, let me tell you if you use the larger flour tortilla shells, that is almost impossible without spilling the insides out. Honestly, they do not have to be flipped. You are only baking them to melt the cheese anyway.

Be sure to use red onions if possible. It gives the quesadillas an awesome flavor combined with the cheese, spinach and mushrooms.

If you are making these for your family and they do not like spicy foods, you can substitute the pepper jack cheese for just monterey jack cheese. If they don't mind a little spicy, a small cup of ranch dressing tastes good with them and it cools down the spicy. You could also just drizzle a little over the quesadillas when serving them. I am not sure in the picture what is in the jar. It is not explained in the recipe.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

A Great Sewing Box

2009-01-19T09:11:00.007-06:00

I have been needing a new sewing box for quite sometime now. I loved the one I had. It was wooden and the top was a giant pin cushion. It opened up and the sides folded out and revealed 3 drawers on each side. It held a lot of things. Sadly, one handle was broken off and it was so big and bulky anyway. I had to sew a button on something yesterday and as I got my sewing box down out of my closet I decided that it was time for a new sewing box.

I ended up using something I already had. I have another bag just like the one above, but a little bigger. Also made by the Paper Studio. I use it to take to school when I am decorating a bulletin board or other project for a teacher. I carry scissors, a stapler, staples, tape, markers, etc. That way I don't have to keep walking in the classroom asking for supplies while she is teaching class.

The photo above is another bag made by the Paper Studio. I honestly bought it because it was 50% off at Hobby Lobby and I was going to carry my colored pencil supplies in for when I go to draw away from my desk. I really haven't used it for that purpose much, so I decided to re-purpose it for my sewing kit.

I used to sew a lot and needed something larger, but for me this is just right now. It holds everything I need for a quick mend or a small sewing project. These scrapbooking totes have so many pockets, you can keep everything organized. Since it is made of fabric, I can put some needles (some threaded) for quick use if I am in a hurry.

Inside I put all my spools of thread. This tote can hold a lot of spools inside.

In this zipper side pocket I have my sewing machine bobbins and attachments.

If you need a new sewing box and you are a patient Hobby Lobby customer like me, just wait until the week they have all the scrapbooking totes and organizers on sale and get one of these for 50% off. I believe this one was originally around $25.00, but I got it 1/2 off.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

More Organizing

2009-01-15T09:48:00.009-06:00

When I am nervous, I clean and organize. I do. I would see someone about this nervous habit of mine, but since the results are productive and since cleaning and organizing makes me feel better, it's a good thing. I am sure Martha would agree with that statement.

I was going through some things and found these wooden organizing trays I had and decided to put them to use in my utensil drawer. They work so well in this drawer for the smaller things that seem to get lost.

Ahhhhhh, I love it when everything is in order and where it should be. I am not always consistent with putting things back where they go so every once in a while I have to get things back in order.

This morning I received an email from "My Home Ideas". They have a great article on organizing. "8 Affordable Ways to Tidy Up". They offer some great tips on clearing clutter and organizing from the junk drawer (their photo above) to your kid's school papers.

Whether organizing is a habit, an obsession, or you have to force yourself to do it, it really is a good thing.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

A Moment of Fame

2009-01-14T01:29:00.006-06:00

Today is a moment of fame for me. Before this, I had been featured at Casa Costa in Seaside, FL. I sat at an antique desk at the back of that beautiful store with my humble little tole painted bucket full of pencils (which I later drew as my logo). Visitors came in that night for "Art Walk" and watched me draw, asked me questions, complimented my work. I felt like a million bucks. Art Walk in Seaside is the first Friday of every month. Locals and visitors peruse the shops in Seaside, mingle with shop owners and managers, meet featured artists and have free champagne and hors d' oeuvres . It is an excellent place to meet people and have your work seen. I have had an open invitation to sit at Casa Costa and draw. I have been several times and it has been a wonderful experience. I am very, very thankful to Sylvia F. at Casa Costa for her hospitality and encouragement.

I have drawn several homes since then. One of those homes being The Nester's home. I have been visiting The Nesting Place since I started blogging over a year ago. I have loved her blog, her humor, her sensibility, her whim, her talent, her class. She has been an inspiration to me in decorating my own place and a bright spot in my day visiting her blog and enjoying her wit.

I remember when she first posted about her home she had to sell and move from. When I began drawing this last year, her home was on my list of things I would love to draw. I loved the "after" photograph. I loved how it was photographed. The trees perfectly framed the beautiful off white home with golden shutters. I loved the copper roof that was added to the front entrance (very classy). I love the square columns, too.

Sometimes I see a building or a home and I immediately see it drawn in colored pencil. The Nester's home was one of those structures I HAD to draw.

It was a pleasure drawing her beautiful home. I can relate to her love of home. I sold and moved from a home that was loved. It wasn't anything I would think an artist would want to render. Nothing like Nester's gorgeous home, but it was home to me. Everything was just right. It was cozy and I had made it that way.

I am so happy to have created this drawing for Nester to always remember her beautiful home by. I am thankful for this Moment of Fame.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

New Home Book

2009-01-12T19:57:00.009-06:00

My favorite designer in the universe is Candace Olson. I. Love. Her. I love her style, I love the way she can tranform any room into perfection. Pure class. I love her personality, I love her clothes, I love how tall she is, I love how beautiful she is.

My next favorite designer is Laurie Smith. She is just as classy, just as talented, just as fun to watch, just as beautiful, although I'm not sure how tall she is. Anyway, I was at Wal Mart today (I really dread going to Wal Mart). The nearest Wal Mart to me is in Destin, FL. Now if I was going to Wal Mart for a swim suit or a boogie board or some sunscreen, then the Destin, FL, Wal Mart would be a one stop shop for me. But when I am going to Wal Mart for toothpaste, shaver refills, peanut butter, laundry detergent, etc. then the Destin, FL, Wal Mart is not the quickest place to shop.

Don't let me scare you, if you are ever in Destin, FL, for vacation, the Wal Mart there is fine. It is just that January is not "tourist season" so cashiers are sparse. It takes forever just to check out.

So anyway, back to Laurie Smith. I was standing in line for 20 minutes waiting to check out. My line was near the magazines and books. I noticed a bargain book table out in the middle of the store right next to where I was standing. I saw Laurie's photo on the front and decided to grab my purse, leave my cart (hey, the line wasn't going anywhere) and walk over and check out the "bargain" book table. What a great "bargain" I got. Wow. $4.00 for "Discovering HOME with Laurie Smith ...Find Your Personal Style". Not sure if any other Wal Mart stores have these bargains, but if not, I found it on Amazon HERE.

I love a good design book with beautiful photographs and great tips. I am SO glad I was shopping at the Destin, FL Wal Mart this afternoon.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Decor for Your Blog

2009-01-08T12:38:00.011-06:00

I had someone visit my blog (Tam at Apple Creek Cottage -love the name and her blog.). She left a sweet comment sharing her love of paisley and said she was wanting a paisley background like I have on my blog.

Well, anyone can do it. I took a pretty piece of my scrapbook paper, placed it on my scanner and scanned it. I then saved the image to my computer and I opened it up in Paint Shop Pro 7 (which I prefer to use to draw graphics, edit photos, etc.) I viewed it in psp at normal and since I scanned it in and it increased the size, I could choose to resize it smaller. I got it just how I wanted it to look in psp and saved it. Then I edited the html in my Blogger layout where the background image goes. I will also say I googled some great sites that help with adding your own backgrounds and things. There are soooo many helpful sites to help us decorate our blogs.

So, if you have a beautiful fabric or a pretty scrapbook paper print, scan it in and give it a try! If you don't, next time you are at a craft store, go to the scrapbook section and look through the scrapbook paper. There are some gorgeous prints and I am sure you will find a great one to use to decorate your blog.

Want to make everything coordinate? If you happen to know a little about working in your html and if you happen to have psp you can use the dropper tool to click on colors in the background image you scanned in. Take a look at the html color code for the color you have chosen and then use that color for your blogger colors. The easiest way is to have your blogger edit open and psp at the same time. Copy (highlight the html code, press cntrl + c) and then paste in the html color choice on your blogger (cntrl + v).

If that all sounds intimidating, go to google and search for some sites that explain step by step how to do it.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Organize and Display

2009-01-07T09:11:00.007-06:00

This is my utensil drawer. What's the first thing you notice besides the utter chaos? ..and the fact that it is too small. Well, I notice the cookie cutters. Mostly because when I just need a rubber spatula or shish kabob skewers, they are all tangled up with some cookie cutters I have in there.

I have over 100 cookie cutters. I have round ones, square ones, scalloped edge ones. I have a dog bone, a fish shape, two complete alphabet sets, acorns, leaves, fire trucks.... You get the idea.

The majority of them are plastic, but some are metal. I decided this morning to get all my metal cookie cutters out of my utensil drawer and out of the Rubbermaid bin where they were mixed in with the plastic ones and put them in a jar. They make a cute display in a glass jar. I'll keep all the plastic ones stored in the Rubbermaid container in the pantry. If you like more colorful displays, the plastic ones would look cute in a jar, too.

The jar I used is an old cracker jar. I bought it at an antique store years ago. But did you know Wal Mart sells these same cracker jars? They have silver lids instead of painted, but they look just as great. Wal Mart carries a nice variety of glass jars with lids that you can buy to store/display things like this. So does Target, Home Goods, TJ Maxx, Marshalls, etc.

Hope this inspires you to find a use for an old jar (or new) and a way to organize/display things in the kitchen.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Old Linens

2009-01-06T10:44:00.009-06:00

I love old linens. When I lived in Jacksonville I would frequent estate sales and seek out the linens. I have a nice collection of old table cloths and napkins.

A few months ago my Aunt Gerry from Missouri came to visit me. I love it when she visits because she will go all day with me to antique shops. She loves to venture out to places I have never been. We always have a great time. While in Bienvenue Antiques in Destin, FL I found this pretty sage green embroidered linen table runner. It was on a table with lots of things on it, but I spotted it. I think it was $10.00. I love it.

It is embroidered with white poinsettias, but I don't care. I am going to use it year round. I love the crocheted border, too.

Several years ago at an estate sale I found these adorable linen napkins and tablecloth with beautiful embroidered scenes on them. I would love to use these sometime. I have them displayed in my white hutch.

Do you collect old linens? Don't be afraid to use them and display them. Don't just keep them in a drawer. Enjoy them.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

And the winner is....

2009-01-05T10:02:00.007-06:00

Ok, let me first of all say that Random.org is kind of strange. I had never used it, but I have seen it used so much to pick a winner from blog comments on other blogs so I just decided I would do the same. Well, anyway, I used the Random Integer Generator and put in 1-9 (the number of comments I had) and it chose number 3. The third comment on this post was Kasey at Beautiful Mess. If you haven't visited Kasey's blog, please do. It's so fun and you never know what she'll blog about. I love her photos in her header. So very clever.

Here's what info Random.org gave me so it will look official and all:

Random Integer Generator
Here are your random numbers: 3
Timestamp: 2009-01-05 16:01:35 UTC

Congratulations, Kasey! BTW: You're not getting my "K", I'll get another one from Hobby Lobby for you! Please email me at hshpgraphics@aol.com with your mailing address and I will get your initial in the mail to you this week.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Another Use for Ceramic Cabinet Knobs

2009-01-02T15:02:00.006-06:00

A few months ago I posted about these pretty ceramic knobs I purchased at Hobby Lobby for $2.99 and that they were also 1/2 off. I haven't worked on any furniture to put them to use yet, but I thought of an idea today as I was cleaning. Why not use them for your drapery rod finials?

This is how my drapery rods are now in my living room. Round sculpted balls which I like. Actually, I am going to replace them with some larger rods soon and use these in my son's room. Anyway, why not replace them with a drawer knob like the ones below....

I think the red looks great and brings out the red in my curtains.

The blue ceramic looks great, too. Maybe not with my colors, but definitely in a room with blues, beiges, blacks. I am thinking they would look great in a kitchen!

If you're lucky enough to have a Hobby Lobby in your area, be sure to check out the drawer pulls and cabinet knobs sometime. They have so many cute cabinet knobs/drawer pulls and they are very reasonably priced. Especially if you are patient and wait until they are on sale for 50% off.

The knobs already have a screw through the center, just as you will find the finial on the rod has. If the screw is too small for the hole, you can replace the screw with one the same size as the original finial, or you can do what I did for these photos (because the screws in the knobs were a little too small) and dab a bit of hot glue around the inside of the curtain rod at the hole and hold in place for a few seconds. Be sure you keep the screw in the knob. They'll stay in place just fine and because it is metal, the hot glue peels off when you need to remove them.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

How to Make a Fabric and Ribbon Noteboard

2009-01-01T00:01:00.002-06:00

Originally I was going to add cork to this black frame I had in the attic. I was at Hobby Lobby getting some art framed today and as I was looking around I saw several note boards that were fabric and ribbon and I changed my mind. Besides a roll of cork was $14.99. Insanely, it was cheaper to buy a whole cork board for $12.99 (which I pondered). Then I wandered over to the decorator fabric and saw that it was 30% off. It actually cost less to buy some beautiful decorator fabric and a couple of rolls of $.99 grossgrain ribbon. So that is what I did.

First you will need some supplies; 1) a nice frame, 2) two pieces of foam board cut to the size of the frame inset, 3) a remnant of fabric of your choice (preferably something heavier such as a home dec. fabric), 4) a piece of cotton batting (cotton batting works best for these note boards. It is denser and not "fluffy" like the polyester batting), 5) a few spools of inexpensive grossgrain ribbon, 6) upholstery tacks (I used 21 for my note board), 7) and a hot glue gun.

First, you may want to lay the frame over the fabric to center any print in the fabric. Trace around the frame with a pen and cut on lines. This will allow extra fabric to wrap around the foam board backing.

Next, cut a piece of batting to exact size of the foam board and lightly glue in place. Lay out your fabric wrong side up and place foam board, batting side down on fabric, centering on the fabric.

Cut the corners out just as I have (above), this will keep the corners from being too bulky when you place it in the frame.

Next, glue the sides to the foam board back. A great tip is to start on one end and then switch to the other end opposite. This keeps the fabric stretched evenly as you glue in place.

Now you will begin to add the ribbon. Start by going from corner to corner. Dot a small amount of hot glue on the front just as the edge of the fabric to hold in place. Then once you have criss-crossed the ribbons, add a tack. This keeps your lines straight. Helpful tip: after I pressed the tack through I put a glob of hot glue around the point of the tack to hold it. Later you will add a second piece of foam board to cover the back and cover the sharp upholstery tack tips. Finish your ribbon and tacks.

Then you are ready to place it in the frame. Next you will add the second piece of foam board and then secure in the frame by bending down the tabs on the back of the frame. Last, add a hanger if it did not have one and then VOILA! you are done.

Hang it on the wall and admire your work. Oh, and don't forget to tuck some things in the ribbons or tack things to the note board as needed.

Anyone who comments on this post will be entered to win a fabulous initial (letter of your choice), like the one I have on my note board. I will use random.org to choose the winner. Winner will be announced Monday, January 5th.

Oh, and Happy New Year!

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Wallpaper

2008-12-31T12:54:00.007-06:00

No, not for the wall. For the computer screen. I am working on a Flick'r album of photographs that can be used as desktop wallpapers. I will post tomorrow with a small collection of photographs I have taken just around my home and outside. Anyone can use them and share with others. You may use the one at the top of this post if you wish. Just click on it so it shows the actual image size then right click and choose "Set as Background" or save as a file on your computer and then set it as your background.

If you don't like my photographs, take some of your own in a high resolution setting on your camera and see what you can come up with.

It's always nice to have something pretty and inspiring on your desktop. It's like a piece of art decorating your desk.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Christmas Clean-Up

2008-12-30T08:36:00.007-06:00

Well, Christmas has come and gone and now it is time to get ready for a brand new year. I usually wait until after New Years to take down my tree and decorations, but I have decided to clean up early.

It feels just as good to me to put things away, clean and organize as it does to drag it all out and put it up. Everything feels clean and fresh.

I am gearing up for a few home projects. One is a cork note board for my office. I am using an old frame I had in the attic. I will share this week how I make my cork board. Very simple. The "K" initial I bought at Hobby Lobby a few weeks ago. Hobby Lobby has the cutest initials in metal, ceramic, and ceramic tiles. This week, again, they are all 1/2 off!

I also painted this star in nice spring/cottage colors last night. It was a deep rust color. Nester gives great tips on how to paint stars when you need a fresh touch of color. This star is hanging in my stairway now.

Be Inspired! -Karol

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-23T22:04:00.004-06:00

Keeping Warm

2008-12-22T20:15:00.005-06:00

Last week I decided to treat myself to a Christmas present and purchased a hand-knitted scarf. I have been eyeing these beautiful scarves by Davids Knits on Etsy for quite a while. The above scarf, Aqua Groovy Araucania Scarf, is the one I purchased. David purchases his yarn from the mountains of South America, specifically from a women's cooperative established to promote social and economic growth within their rural areas.

David's Etsy shop is very professional. He offers about 5 photos of each scarf so you get to see the detail. My scarf arrived quickly and beautifully packaged. I definitely recommend Davids Knits.

Lucky me, the weather has turned cold and I can enjoy for a few days anyway.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Chocolate-Gingerbread-House Petits Fours

2008-12-19T09:01:00.005-06:00

I received this cookie idea from Martha Stewart's Cookie of the Day email this morning. They are adorable. If the Gingerbread Dream Homes were a bit too fancy for you to try, then take a look at these mini chocolate-gingerbread bite size houses. They would make cute place markers for Christmas Dinner or just on a cake plate as Petits Fours. CLICK HERE to see the recipe.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Foggy Night Christmas Lights

2008-12-17T22:14:00.012-06:00

This is what it looked like at noon today as I left for my daughter's school to help with the Christmas party. Keep in mind, I had just emailed a friend to say how sunny and blue-skied it was here today. Next thing I know the fog rolled in off the Gulf. This is Seaside, FL at noon....

Just a mile farther at Western Lake in WaterColor, FL (at noon).....

Then tonight I had to go to the grocery store for the movie day tomorrow at her school. They are watching some Christmas movies and having hot chocolate and popcorn (eeks, what a combo). I had to get some hot chocolate and milk. I purposely went to the Publix in Carillon Beach so I could see the Christmas lights in the fog. I took my camera and tripod so I could capture some pictures. Below is what I saw on my way back home....

This is the main park in Rosemary Beach. Beautiful fountain.

This is just across the street.... Pretty Christmas tree.

This is a courtyard in Alys Beach.

This is pic of the rows of palm trees on 30A at Alys Beach.

This is closeup of one of the palm trees. They are magnificent in person.

The fog was so wet and so thick. This is the Florida Fish house just a few blocks from my house on Eastern Lake. I love how the sign was reflecting in the water....

This is Nativity scene at Seagrove Baptist Church. It looked so pretty on this foggy night.

Be Inspired. -Karol :0)

Genius Gift Wrap Guide

2008-12-16T19:35:00.005-06:00

I am sure, like me, some of you are just beginning to wrap gifts. I received an email from My Home Ideas, part of Coastal Living, Cottage Living magazines. They offer this great Genius Gift Wrap Guide with some clever ways to give and package gifts. The photo above is just a bakery/pastry box filled with 6 inexpensive white votives (probably unscented) and a box of matches. Very simple, but so classy with the packaging. Please visit My Home Ideas and while you're there, look around, they have helpful tips on how to tie a bow, how to wrap a gift and so many other things.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Gingerbread Dream Homes

2008-12-13T19:36:00.022-06:00

Today was the annual "Breakfast with Santa" at my daughter's school. My favorite part of this event is the gingerbread houses made by local chefs. This year there were a few that I could not stop taking pictures of. Above was a beautiful storybook cottage. I wanted to live in it. Every detail was meticulously made. It is a coastal/storybook cottage. Below are some more pictures of the amazing details...

Next is a Stunning Lighthouse! Complete with a cobblestone walkway. I want to live in this one, too.

This one was so cute, too. I love the pretzel stick fence. Sadie, this looks like your home!

Inspiration

2008-12-12T09:32:00.012-06:00

Am I the only one that can't resist a decorating magazine? Sometimes I just say "No! Karol, you just bought a magazine yesterday!". Sometimes I am in line at Wal Mart for 20 minuntes and I can look through the pages and pictures and soak it all in and put it back and feel proud that I saved $5.99 for that issue. Then there are times I just have to have it. The covers do it to me every time. Who can resist the beautiful, eye-pleasing photographs? I am so inspired visually.

I am that way about my home. I like to walk around and everything looks nice. Not perfect, but nice. Nice -as in cozy. Nice -as in the colors feel good. It motivates me creatively.

What about you?

BTW: I have all the issues above.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Deck Your Cars

2008-12-11T10:22:00.005-06:00

....with boughs of holly, Fa la la la la, la la la la.

It's always fun to put a wreath on the front of my truck. I do it every year. I bought this wreath a few weeks ago at Michael's on sale for $3.00. I added a ribbon bow and tied to the grill on my truck with twine.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Argh! Pirate Ornaments

2008-12-10T10:08:00.004-06:00

Each year I buy a new ornament or two for the Christmas tree. This year I found these adorable pirate ornaments at a local beach antiques/gift shop called Scavengers. My Aunt was visiting here from Missouri and we stayed busy visiting antique/gift shops. I couldn't resist these cute ornaments. They are made with bells. How clever. My tree is FULL of variety.

Making a Table Centerpiece

2008-12-08T16:44:00.005-06:00

Did you find some free pine branches? You could also make a nice table centerpiece, as I did above (click on picture for larger view). Same steps as wreaths, but use a smaller wreath form. You can make your centerpiece round or long, as I did. Then add a candle sconce in the center and a bow, if you wish.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

How to make a fresh wreath for $2.50 each

2008-12-04T18:24:00.018-06:00

Today I made two fresh frazier fur and berry wreaths for my front doors. I love making these wreaths. It smells so good and they look gorgeous, too. Below I will show you how to make them and virtually for free!

First, you will need a wreath form and some green floral wire. Both can be purchased at any craft store such as Michael's, Hobby Lobby, etc. Most wreath forms are around $2.00. I used 18" wreath forms. Which means you should end up with 24" wreaths.

Next, you will need pine branches. Just visit your local grocery store or home center where they are selling fresh Christmas trees. Some places use the cuttings to make their own wreaths and sell them, so your best bet really is a grocery store. My local Publix grocery store actually keeps all the cuttings in a box just for people like me who want to make a wreath. How nice! Be sure to get plenty so you will have a nice full, lush wreath. Take a black plastic bag to put them in. You don't want pine sap in your trunk or carpet.

If you are lucky enough to have some of these berry trees around, gather a big bunch of these beautiful berry branches. Unfortunately I don't have any of these trees in my own yard so I drove around and found some. They weren't "technically" in someones yard, just on the side of the road at the ditch. ;-)

See, I only took enough for my two wreaths. That's it.

Snip and gather a small bunch of pine branch tips as above. Start wrapping the floral wire just at the end of the branches. Next add a bunch of berries (if using berries) and wire them in place.

Keep going around adding pine branch tips and berries. Don't be stingy, use full bunches. Remember, they were free!

Almost there!....

Ok, all done. Isn't it pretty? This is the time to look at it. See if it needs a bit more green "here" or another bunch of berries "there".

Last, it's time to hang your wreath. I like to hang my wreaths with a nice wide ribbon. I saw this idea recently on the Nesting Place blog. I was so excited to see that I was actually doing something that Nester does. I l-o-v-e how she does things. Use a nice wide ribbon. I cut my ribbons 2 1/2' long. Tack them to the very top of the door using a heavy upholstery tack. These wreaths are heavy.

I made the first wreath just after lunch. Then I had to pick up my kids at school and by the time we got back home it had been storming. So I had to make the next one on my wet porch. Taking the picture of the two wreaths together did not turn out like I wanted, but you get the idea. Also, my front steps are not centered with the front doors (don't blame me, I did not design this house) so it is not easy to take a picture of the front doors without some kind of angle to it.

If you make one of these wreaths, please comment or email me and let me know. I would love to hear all about it.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Post Card Painting

2008-12-03T04:22:00.001-06:00

I just saw the neatest idea for art today. I bought the December'08/January '09 issue of Mary Engelbreit's Home Companion. There was a story on the owner of Joan's on Third in Los Angeles. The story includes a tour of her beautiful LA loft.

As my eyes feasted on the beautiful photos of the monochromatic back drop of her home, embellished with whimsy and bright touches of color, I immediately saw the painting on her bedroom wall. You can CLICK HERE to read the entire story on ME's mag website.

The painting above her bed is a postcard. I was hoping to find information on the artist or where they are available, but there is a footnote regarding the painting that Joan found the painting in a Santa Monica restaurant and kept bugging the owner about it until they let her buy it.

Isn't it clever? What an idea. I might just have to buy a canvas and make one of these. Wouldn't they make a great gift for someone far away. You could paint it just as you would have written them a postcard.

I love it!

Be Inspired. -Karol :0)

Driftwood Jar

2008-12-02T10:20:00.005-06:00

During Thanksgiving weekend I spent a few days in Jacksonville and I visited my favorite store in the whole world, Home Goods. I found the perfect jar for my driftwood for $9.99.

I love Home Goods.

Be inspired! -Karol :0)

Paper Evergreens

2008-12-02T09:36:00.004-06:00

I had to share the Martha Stewart craft of the day with you. Aren't these trees cute? Since I scrapbook and I love working with paper, these trees look so fun to make. What a fun project to do with your kids. They would look great in the center of your table for Christmas dinner or on the mantel, as above, or as a fun classroom/homeschool project. They could be left plain or decorated. Sky's the limit!

CLICK HERE (or on the picture above) to go right to the 5 step project at MarthaStewart.com.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

I did it!

2008-12-01T00:01:00.005-06:00

This post has nothing to do with decorating or the holidays or my home, but it does have to do with inspiration. I ran in my first 1/2 marathon yesterday. 13.1 miles. I have never been a runner, but always wanted to. Last year a friend inspired and encouraged me to start running. I began training at the end of December, 2007.

I am completely exhausted, but it was SO worth it. My kids were there at the finish line to take my picture and cheer me on.

Want to see something funny? This is me at 5:45am before the race began....

This is me several hours later just before crossing the finish line. My son remembered to watch for me and take my picture. I did not even see him. So, this picture really shows how I was feeling at mile 13....

If you are a runner and you want to know my results, they are:

83 911 1023 Karol Harrison 39 Santa Rosa Beach FL 2:54:06 13:18

I wish I had made better time, but I never would have thought a year ago that I would be running in a 1/2 marathon and actually cross the finish line. I'll work on my speed later.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Bless Ye

2008-11-27T00:01:00.001-06:00

Have a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving.

Giving thanks today. -Karol :0)

An Afternoon at the Beach

2008-11-26T12:48:00.011-06:00

Yesterday my kids and I took a break from school projects we are working on. We packed a lunch and rode our bikes down the shore about a mile or so to Deer Lake State Park. Not sure why, but we like it there better than at our beach right here. It has a very long boardwalk that goes through the beautiful white dunes and past the dune lakes. It is breathtaking to me. We picked up tons of shells. I even found a nice sand dollar (as you can see in the photo).

We have been filling this jar full of shells since we moved here and it is almost completely full now.

We just started collecting driftwood recently and I am looking for an interesting jar to display the driftwood pieces in.

After we ate lunch and gathered shells, we found this very large piece of driftwood or a tree. Whatever you want to call it. It was a great spot for a photograph. We all got our feet wet a few times, but it was fun.

Later in the evening I had to run a few errands. On the way back home I saw this beautiful sunset. I pulled over and ran down the road with my camera to get a few pictures.

I thanked God for this beautiful world he created for us.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

More Thanksgiving Inspiration ..and a recipe to share

2008-11-25T10:15:00.008-06:00

This extra post today is for Stacey (love her sweet blog) and anyone else who needs a little inspiration for Thanksgiving. I got this "post card" from Southern Living in my email box this morning. CLICK HERE or on the post card above to see what inspiration is waiting.

BTW: I love the picture from my last post, but I doubt too many people's tables look like that either. It was arranged for a nice photo. All crowded around that one plate. I just love the colors and textures in the photograph. I am inspired visually and that photo does it for me. I would also think that if that was someones place they might feel a little crowded. But hey, if I could make a luscious table like that, I would!

What is most important for Thanksgiving meal is Food, Family, Friends. Being blessed with them and thankful for them. Being thankful to God for all those things.

Are you looking for an unusual side dish? I want to suggest one that I love to make every year. In fact I am usually asked to bring it each year. It is called Carrot Souffle'. It is so good. Even if your kids, grand kids, nieces, nephews, husband, brother, sister, neighbor kid won't eat carrots, they might just like carrots in this dish....

I recommend the "Cafeteria Carrot Souffle" recipe. It is the one I use from the All Recipes site. Said recipe is below, but I would also recommend going HERE to the exact recipe. You can choose how many servings and it will recalculate the recipe for the amount of servings you need.

Cafeteria Carrot Souffle from http://www.allrecipes.com/

submitted by Tammy Photo by Rebecca

INGREDIENTS (Nutrition)
2 pounds carrots, chopped
1/2 cup melted butter
1 cup white sugar
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon confectioners' sugar for dusting

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add carrots and cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash. To the carrots add melted butter, white sugar, flour, baking powder, vanilla extract and eggs. Mix well and transfer to a 2 quart casserole dish. Sprinkle with confectioners' sugar.
Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes.

***Side notes: If you are in a hurry you can use canned carrots. They work just as good and cut the time of peeling, cutting, boiling the carrots. Fresh is best, but canned is good. Also, I put way more powdered sugar on top. There's NO WAY you can get a nice dusting of powdered sugar on top with 1 tsp! I use about 2 Tbsp, maybe more. I don't measure, I just put in sifter/strainer thing and dust the top.

========================================================

UPDATE!

Visit THIS LINK at Martha Stewart.com for endless Thanksgiving side dish choices! THIS LINK goes directly to the page where side dish recipes are categorized and have thumbnail photos of each dish. You'll love it!

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

Thanksgiving Centerpieces

2008-11-25T00:01:00.001-06:00

I hate to keep sending everyone somewhere else, but Better Homes & Gardens does such a wonderful job at inspiring me. I am on their email list and get an email everyday right now with ideas for the holidays. I love this table setting above. I am looking forward to the days when my children are grown and I host Thanksgiving for everyone.

CLICK HERE to visit BHG's slide show of inspiring table settings and centerpieces for Thanksgiving.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

My Favorite Sight to See

2008-11-24T00:01:00.004-06:00

I love this sight. Christmas trees and greenery with lights. It is so cozy to me.

I know it's early, but I couldn't wait. Plus I will be travelling in a few days for Thanksgiving and I will be running in my first 1/2 marathon. I won't be back until Monday. When I return, all the hard work is done and I can enjoy Christmas.

Be Inspired! -Karol :0)

My "Mantel"

2008-11-23T00:32:00.007-06:00

I began a little decorating today. I wanted to give Nester's Mantel Garland a try. I don't have a fireplace or a mantel so I used my old cabinet that my tv is on as my mantel. I wired together two strands of my wimpy old garland (I now wish I had added about 2 more) and then I added some red berry garland in. Added lights, lots of tiny white starfish, some ornaments here and there.

I added bows to the corners and tucked in some goldish antique looking roses.
I even added a few birdnests for good measure. Plus Nester would do the same thing and I like how she does things.

Well, this will be my mantel this year. I really wanted to put the tv in this cabinet, put a mirror above and have some nice things on the mantel, but the tv will not fit in the cabinet. :-(

Now that I am looking at my photographs, my garland needs some more weight to it. I will work on it again this week and make it fuller.

Be Inspired! Karol :0)

Luscious Homemade Food Gifts

2008-11-21T18:41:00.007-06:00

Better Homes & Gardens has a wonderful slide show with photos and recipes for some delicious homemade gifts. CLICK HERE to take a look at their "Luscious Homemade Food Gifts". There are 26 recipes with photos and tips on how to package and give these gifts.I chose a few photos from the slide show to remind myself and anyone who reads this entry that making homemade treats for gifts can be very simple. In fact, I have learned to keep things simple. I think it is important to remember that a lot of people receive things like that around the holidays. So to just bundle a half dozen cookies in a nice way with ribbon and a pretty tag is best.

This first photo is Almond Breton Biscuits. I chose this one for the name mostly. Have you ever added almond extract to a good shortbread cookie recipe? Give it a try. Almond extract is my "secret ingredient" in my shortbread cookies. I always get compliments on the flavor.

For instance the nougat treats above. There are only four. A great sampling of your culinary skills, but not too much. Four small treats packaged in a tasteful box with a nice personal message attached is perfect.

Last, (above) look at these bars. What a nice way to package them. Just a enough for a sample, but not too much. Not too much for the recipient and not too much (stress) for you!

Remember, presentation makes all the difference.

Be Inspired! Karol :0)

Magnificent Mantels

2008-11-20T19:38:00.007-06:00

It's time to think about how to decorate your mantel this year. In just a week or so we will decking our halls. My favorite blog NESTING PLACE has a great "how to" for making a gorgeous greenery swag for your mantel. She even shows you what to do if you don't have a mantel.

I don't have a fireplace or a mantel. I have an antique cabinet as a focal point in my living room that serves as our tv stand. It does have a ledge so I am going to see if I can use it as a mantel. I may even try to put the tv in the cabinet for the next few months, not sure it will fit. (sorry thinking out loud).

My Home Ideas has a great slideshow of Magnificent Mantels. CLICK HERE to take a look. Maybe you will find some inspiration there.

I really like this photo (from the slide show). Great idea!

Be Inspired. -Karol :0)

Salmon Patties & Salad

2008-11-19T19:19:00.003-06:00

I just made Salmon Patties for the first time a few days ago. The kids and I liked them so much we all wanted them again tonight for dinner. I decided to serve them on a bed of leafy greens with a homemade vinagrette dressing. I want to share both recipes with you.

Salmon Patties
Recipe from All Recipes.com

INGREDIENTS (Nutrition)

1 (14.75 ounce) can canned salmon (I prefer Bumble Bee skinless boneless Salmon in pouch)
1 egg
1/2 cup seasoned dry bread crumbs
1/4 cup chopped onion (I prefer a sweet vidalia onion)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Add to Recipe Box
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Add to Shopping List
Add a Personal Note
DIRECTIONS

Drain and reserve liquid from salmon. Mix egg, onion, bread crumbs and salmon together.
Make into patty's. If mixture is too dry to form into patties, add reserved liquid from salmon.
In a frying pan, heat olive oil. Place patties in pan. Brown on each side, turning gently.

Drain on paper towels and serve.

======================================================================

Martha's Favorite Vinagrette
recipe from: Martha Stewart.com

Ingredients
Makes 1 cup.

3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon walnut oil (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
Pinch of sugar

Directions

In a jar, combine all ingredients. Shake well to combine.
=============================================================

I tossed the vinagrette with fresh spinach leaves and a variety of leafy spring mix greens. Then served the warm salmon patties right on top.

Enjoy! Karol :0)

A Crate & Barrel Thanksgiving

2008-11-19T07:00:00.000-06:00

Crate & Barrel has some very nice things for Thanksgiving. CLICK HERE to go right to their Thanksgiving items.

Below are a few things I love! (which can be found HERE):

Not only do they have really nice Thanksgiving items, their prices are reasonable, too.

Be Inspired! Karol :0)

Cookie Decorating

2008-11-18T13:42:00.005-06:00

Want to practice decorating sugar cookies? Just CLICK HERE to visit Better Homes and Gardens website to decorate your own sugar cookie and send to friends/family with your personal greeting. It's fun!

Be Inspired! Karol :0)

More Festive Front Entries

2008-11-14T21:06:00.003-06:00

As I ponder how I will decorate my front entry/porch this year, I will share these inspiring ideas from My Home Ideas.com. Enjoy!

Be Inspired! ~Karol

Some Holiday Inspiration

2008-11-10T10:03:00.010-06:00

One of my favorite things beginning in November is hearing Christmas music playing in the stores. I found myself thinking the other day "wow, they are playing Christmas music already?" and then I realized it IS November. I don't mind hearing Christmas music before Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving and Christmas to me are two separate holidays, but are just part of the "Holidays". The entire end of the year is my favorite time of year.

I love to listen to Christmas music this time of year when I am cleaning, working on handmade gifts for others, and baking. It's inspiring to me and brings back great memories of holidays past.

So, if you are like me and like to listen to holiday music I wanted to share a free online music site. It is http://www.accuradio.com/. You can listen for free whenever you want. I love listening to Christmas music on Accuradio because they have a huge variety of music to choose from. If you like the classic Christmas sounds of Bing Crosby, Ray Charles, Mel Tormé, Dean Martin, Tony Bennet, The Carpenters, Nat King Cole, etc. (my faves), then you'll love Accuradio's Holiday Music. If you like jazz they have the awesome oldies such as Miles Davis, Louis Armstrong, Count Basie, and they have the magnificent contemporary jazz artists such as Chris Botti (my favorite!), Gerald Albright, Rick Braun, Norman Brown, etc. You can choose holiday music and then choose from over 30 subcategories for your favorite Holiday music such as: old-fashioned(love this one), standards, jazz(love this one) celtic, country, rock, pop, new releases, etc. You'll love it!

One last thing. In my inbox this morning I had the Cookie of the Day from Martha Stewart. Iced Oatmeal Applesauce Cookies. They look delicious! Click Here to go right to the MS website and recipe for these cookies.

Now, go light some yummy smelling candles, put on some nice holiday music from accuradio or your own holiday cd collection, start baking cookies, and get yourself in the mood for the holidays.

Be Inspired! ~Karol :0)

Holiday Curb Appeal

2008-11-08T01:34:00.005-06:00

There is nothing I like more than photos of front porches and front doors. Cottage Living has a great slide show of Holiday Porch and Door ideas. I chose the photo above because 1) it is a craftsman bungalow style porch (my absolute favorite home style) and 2) the decor is fabulous. I love the greenery on the ceiling of the porch. This porch, to me, says please stop in and have some eggnog or spiced cider with us.

Click here to see 15 more inspiring photos of front porches and doors with Holiday Curb Appeal!

Be Inspired! ~Karol :0)

What's Your Fall Decorating Style?

2008-11-06T22:43:00.002-06:00

I took this fun quiz at Martha Stewart.com to find out my decorating style. Click Here and see what your Fall Decorating Style is!

My style result was "Warm and Cozy". Sounds just right. Also, enjoy the quiz, the photographs to choose from are exquisite.

Be Inspired! ~Karol :0)

Curtains & Hugs

2008-11-03T10:35:00.005-06:00

I realized something last week. I am living in a rental home. At the beach. Totally out of my element. For over a year I have tried to combine this beach cottage type home with my country/cottage decor. The floors are all ceramic tile in the downstairs living space. I do not like it, but I can't change it. All the windows downstairs in this area are actually double doors that lead out to the wrap around porch. I have not added curtains in any of the rooms. I love curtains and I finally bought some for the living room area last week.

I realized curtains are like hugs. Curtains just make a room feel so cozy. Curtains warm up a room. I have never lived in a home without curtains. Now that I have added them in the living room it feels warmer when I am in that room. I will feel even better when I add a cozy room size rug to the living room. That will be next.

I balanced out the room by adding a set to the doors at the front entrance. -Don't mind the pink chairs. Slip covers are on my to do list. Soon!

I am thinking of adding a "mistreatment" (as my fave blogger Nester calls it) of plaid at the top of the curtains. Just to add a little more substance to them. I will share pics when I do so.

Be Inspired! ~Karol :0)

Country Home Magazine

2008-10-29T11:53:00.003-05:00

Country Home magazine is probably my favorite magazine. I love the inspiring photographs and stories on Country Homes. I wanted to invite you to visit their website. They have a lot of great stuff on their site. I suggest clicking on the Photo Gallery (left hand side of main web page). Anyone can share photos. They are categorized by things people find, things people make, country kitchen photos, country home photos, country pets, etc. Lots of great submitted photographs. They also have a lot of contests and promotions you can enter to win. Visit Country Home's website for some great decorating inspiration.

Be Inspired. ~Karol :0)