Kitchen Inspiration: A Second Look

Last weekend, a dear Boston friend [who also happens to be designer] spent the weekend with us.  Of course, I took the opportunity to discuss our upcoming kitchen renovation and I was immediately challenged on my original concept.    My friend's thoughts were inclined toward honoring the mid-century design of our house by using more textural elements, mainly on the walls, which I originally wanted to cover in this wallpaper.  I'm now researching other finishes to give the space a more natural and earthier look.  Given my love for wall coverings and bold patterns, I'm not entirely convinced yet, but I do think I should explore other looks for this very important family space:

It is pretty, isn't it?  Take look here at my original inspiration and let me know which style you prefer.  Next week I'll reveal our kitchen as it is now, so you can get a better sense on the scope of this project.

Many thanks to MV for getting my creative juices flowing in an unpredictable direction.  The whole family loved hosting you and we look forward to seeing you in July.

Closet Updates: 5 Patterned Tops

I've recently updated my closet with a few patterned tops that give my wardrobe a much needed Spring lift.  I love the colorful geometric and floral prints that pair so easily with any type of jeans.  Take a look at some of my favorite designs on shirts and tunics.

1./2./3./4./5.

Sunset Magazine And The Helios Heated Lounge: A Hot Seat Contest

This month Sunset Magazine and Galanter and Jones have teamed up for the hottest contest of the year offering a Helios Heated Lounge to the lucky winner.  The lounge, which is super sleek in design is also innovative since it is heated.  Literally,  it's a hot seat and I want one.  I'm submitting an entry and you should too.  Details on how to enter can be found here.

The Helios Lounge at Flora Grubb.

Out And About: The Ruth Bancroft Garden

Last Saturday I visited the The Ruth Bancroft Garden in Walnut Creek for the first time (definitely not the last).  The garden is a spectacular extravaganza of succulents in different sizes, shapes, colors and textures. It was originally planted in 1972 by Mrs. Bancroft who became interested in water conserving plants after moving to the dryer climate of Walnut Creek from Berkeley.  Her passion for drought tolerant gardening matured into a dramatic botanical display that both inspires and educates its visitors.  My visit (not so happenstance) coincided with one of the garden's quarterly plant sales.  Following my neighbor's advice the two of us arrived at the garden well before the sale began to ensure first picks.  We shopped till we dropped.  Take a look at few of my favorite images from that day.

Many, many thanks to AM, my neighbor, friend and fellow plant enthusiast for introducing me to the Ruth Bancroft Garden.

Fleeting Moments

Lately I've been feeling like time is passing so quickly.  I look at our children in awe of their growth, both mental and physical.   At times, it's hard to believe that they where once "little".  When I try to recall infant milestones and preschool memories, their immediate presence pulls me back to the present.  Fleeting as it may be I am grateful for every second of time.  This week's event and others that caused so much pain and loss leave my heart heavy and my soul searching for answers.  We may never have the answers but for now we need to live in the moment with kindness and love for all we meet.

We're thinking a lot about the city that was our home not so long ago and all our loved ones who still live there.