Odi et Amo

The Long Goodbye.

2011-08-26T20:39:00.001-05:00

{Baby G., about 6 weeks ago}

I suppose in some ways this post was inevitably, but I wanted to delay it until I was absolutely sure. I didn't want to lead you on or risk saying something I didn't mean.

I've decided I'm going to pack it in here at Odi et Amo. While I thoroughly enjoyed the 2+ years of blogging (and reading blogs), between juggling more responsibilities at work and a new baby, I just don't have time anymore. Beyond that, I'll confess that I've lost a lot of interest. Sure, the first few weeks of not blogging were a bit tough (something akin I'd imagine to going withdrawal), but as the weeks flew by, I've found myself missing this less and less. What time I have free I simply no longer wish to spend blogging. Perhaps even more importantly, my design mojo is all but gone. I'm just kind of...over it. (Sorry!) Might I change my mind? Of course, but I suspect that will require a serious change in my circumstances (like not working).

All that being said, I do miss my blogging buddies -- and I think of you often. You were wonderfully supportive during my various and sundry home renovation and home decor projects and so understanding during my pregnancy and Graham's first few weeks when I went all but AWOL. I wish you all the very best and hope sincerely to keep in touch (and get back in touch) very soon.

Much love,

Averill

PS - For the time being, I'll be leaving my blog up and publicly available. As far as I'm concerned, I spent way too much time on this blog to simply let it go into oblivion. It was a labor of love and, like all loves, even when over still stays with you.

Back to Work/Back to Reality....

2011-06-01T20:39:00.001-05:00

{Baby G. loves his play mat!}

Today was my first day back at work following a 12-week maternity leave. It was both easier and harder than I had expected. On the one hand, I felt as though I'd simply picked up right where I'd left off; my time away felt more like days rather than weeks. And yet…everything felt different as Baby G. continued to dominate my thoughts as I struggled to make it through a sleepy afternoon without the benefit of a nap.

The idea of leaving him with our nanny (whom I like very much) does not distress me nor do I feel overcome by guilt, convinced I am betraying him by not spending every waking moment taking care of him. And yet...I do feel some regret, some sadness in the knowledge of how much I’ll be missing in the coming weeks and months. I’ve spent the past 12 weeks witnessing every milestone, no matter how trivial and I’ve loved seeing Baby G. develop into a much more alert and interactive being than he was just weeks ago. But I also know that prior to Baby G.’s arrival, I loved my job and a large part of me is excited at the prospect of returning to my professional life, ready to conquer new challenges. I know many of you out there are also working mothers (and fathers) and share these mixed feelings with me.

{...And his mobile!}

I am sure you've also noticed the drop off in my posting (and commenting!) over the past few weeks -- and my absence is simply the byproduct of my cherishing what was left of my time at home with my son. Unfortunately, as I adjust to my new role as a working mom, I expect my blogging to remain sporadic, as my priorities have by necessity shifted to accommodate this new addition to our family. In the coming weeks and months, I hope to find my way back here to the design blogosphere, but in the meantime recognize that my reality currently does not allow for the level of involvement that I'd had the luxury of having up until 3 months ago. I ask that you bear with me during this transition and I hope we are able to reconnect soon once I’ve figured out how to fit my passions for design and blogging around my new duties as mother.

Know though that I do miss reading many of your blogs on a daily basis, living vicariously through your renovations and DIY projects and sharing your day dreams and fantasies of beautiful design. I firmly believe that blogging has revolutionized and democratized the interior design world and I’ve loved being a (small) part of that shift. I hope to see you all back here soon for more of what I love, hate and hate to love in the worlds of design, fashion and style.

Until then,
Averill

There's Something About Orange

2011-05-17T11:35:00.000-05:00

While just about any technicolor shade is right on trend this summer, there's something about orange that I'm loving right now. Perhaps it's because orange seems just right for the increasingly warm weather. Or maybe it's just the punch of bold, bright, cheerfulness that my wardrobe needs right now. Or maybe it's got something to do with how well it pairs with other colors I love like navy blue, turquoise and white. Regardless, orange is a "must have" for me this summer.

The key to pulling off head-to-toe orange? Keep the silhouette simple and streamlined; the color is the standout here, so keep the details unfussy and accessories (try just some simple gold jewelry) to a minimum. Also, stay monochromatic if you want to keep the look feeling sophisticated and edgy as too many bold colors easily read as too young. Nude shoes are a great (and leg-lengthening) choice.

Despite my love of statement-making color, I'll confess I don't always have the hutzpah to wear head-to-toe brights myself. I all too often tend to retreat behind black, navy or gray. If you're anything like me (and I expect many of you are), then the easiest way to play with the bolds and brights found on the Spring 2011 runways is to incorporate these shades into your existing wardrobe in smaller doses, via shoes, jewelry, and handbags.

Source List:

St John Double Face Crepe Jacket and Pencil Skirt (Nordstrom; $795 and $395)

Diane Von Furstenberg Bateau Neck Dress (Nordstrom; $285)

Verbena Dress (Tory Burch; $350)

Kate Spade New York "Daycation" pouch (Nordstrom; $50)
Lanvin Grosgrain espadrilles (Net-a-porter; $595)
Elephant Belt (Kate Spade; $95)

Cara Accessories Bead & Metal Bangles (Nordstrom; $48)

Dylan Large Shoulder Bag (Linea Pelle; $415)

Tory Burch Synthetic Straw Shoulder Bag (Nordstrom; $350)

Horton Sandal (Tory Burch; $295)

Shabby-Chic Linen Ballet Flat (Banana Republic; $79)

Juicy Couture Endless Summer Stackable Rings (Nordstrom; $88/set of 3)

Car Query

2011-05-16T09:45:00.004-05:00

Locked, loaded and ready to roll!

Yes, I know I've been a very bad blogger, but y'all may be unsurprised to hear that being a new mom and blogging regularly aren't exactly simpatico. In any case, while I promise better, design-oriented posts later this week, I wanted to pop in this morning and get folks' thoughts on cars.

2011 Acura RDX

While this isn't exactly a car blog, I thought you, my lovely and smart readers, might have some valuable opinions and insights on purchasing a "mom" car. After swearing up and down I wasn't going to succumb and trade in one of our small sedans for a SUV just because I happened to have a 15-lb. bundle of joy...well, just 10 weeks in, and I'm succumbing and we're going to start looking for a smaller, crossover SUV later this year.

2011 Volvo XC60

So here are my criteria: (1) comfortably fits rear-facing car seat while allowing ample room in the front for 6'-plus parents (something our current cars do not allow); (2) reasonable amount of cargo space for carting gear, groceries and the occasional flea-market score; (3) not so big that I'll detest driving it (I had a 4-runner for exactly a year in law school before trading down to a Matrix -- it was way too big for me then, and still is now); and (4) under $35k. Oh and yeah, I'd like leather seats, too.

2011 Volkswagen Tiguan

Tall order? I certainly hope not! Right now, I'm thinking about the Acura RDX, the Volvo XC60 and the Volkswagen Tiguan. I currently own an Acura TSX (and love it; we'll be trading in Dave's older Pontiac Grand Prix), but I have very little experience with Volvos or Volkswagens personally. There are things that I like and dislike about each of these models, but I'd prefer to hear your opinions uncolored by my own so I won't go into details here.

Have you owned any of these cars or know of someone who does? If so, would you recommend one (or all of them)? Do you have any other suggestions? Regardless, would very much appreciate your thoughts!

Update (7/4/11): We bought the Tiguan and couldn't be happier! (Though we did test drive the Volvo xc60 and it is a very, very nice car; we just found a deal on the VW we couldn't refuse!)

Wave on Wave

2011-05-06T17:56:00.000-05:00

Tobi Fairley's Arkansas home is featured in this month's Traditional Home. While I'd seen many of the rooms before via her online portfolio, I was still excited to see one of my favorite designers featured -- and to see a few "new to me" rooms. Her entryway, with its bold black and white wallpaper is certainly a stunner, but it's actually the Vitruvian scroll molding on the stairs that really caught my attention. What's more, I knew I'd seen it recently in House Beautiful....

With its softer, cooler color palette, this dining room by John Howard (Phoebe Howard's husband) is just about a complete 180 from Fairley's bold entryway, and yet the pattern works just as beautifully here as a subtle nod to the North Carolina home's beach locale.

While the motif has traditionally appeared on architectural friezes, there's no need to restrict the pattern to hard surfaces. In this living room, Katie Ridder creates architecture and movement with draperies edged in Vitruvian srcoll trim.

Want to know more? The pattern is a classic -- literally -- and you'll find it featured prominently on Greco-Roman buildings and mosaics dating back thousands of years. The name Vitruvian Scroll is for Marcus Vitruvius Pollio, a first century B.C.E. Roman architect whose book De Architectura was immensely popular during the Renaissance. And yet, despite its antiquity, the pattern (like greek key, the angular variant of the same scroll motif, which I waxed poetic about HERE) still feels modern and fresh to me. The soft curves of the Vitruvian scroll, however, reads as more feminine, more sensuous. And, since it's not experiencing quite the same level of popularity right now as greek key, it also reads as a bit more unusual.

Baby G. Update: Two Months

2011-05-03T17:44:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow Baby G. will be two months old -- man, does time fly! In many ways it feels like he's only been with us for a few days and, yet, I can't really imagine my life without him now. With each passing week he's getting bigger, more alert, more expressive and definitely more fun. This weekend we discovered how much he liked sitting up against one of us, looking out at the world (surveying his domain, as we like to joke). His serious demeanor continues, and he still spends much of his awake time quietly watching everything and everyone.

This week Baby G. managed to find his hand...and he's currently obsessed! In fact, I've been having trouble getting it out of his mouth so I can feed him.

Another change over the past few weeks is how interested he is now in mobiles, toys, etc. He's getting pretty good at batting them and even grabbing the ring on that bird hanging in the foreground. Today I set up a mobile over his crib that plays Bach and Chopin and he was absolutely mesmerized...well, for 15 minutes or so until he got tired of it. But, hey, I figure 15 minutes is about the max attention span you could possible expect at his age!

Of course, the big milestone at two months is the first round of immunizations. I'm actually excited at the prospect of Baby G. getting his first round of shots tomorrow, as it means I'll be taking him out more without worrying so much over every passing sneeze or sniffle. At the end of the month, we're headed to Florida to visit Dave's family and while I don't relish the thought of loading all of Baby G.'s gear onto a plane, I am very much looking forward to seeing everyone (and getting out of the house!).

Tilda has adjusted well to having Baby G. around. Indeed, she's incredibly protective of him and treats him like a member of our pack.

Of course, she's still a puppy herself, which means she can sometimes be a bit overly enthusiastic. I figure once Baby G. is mobile, he'll more than get her back though.

Jane's House: The Master Bedroom

2011-04-28T17:53:00.001-05:00

Jane's House as of April 20, 2011

Editor's Note: This post is the second in a series detailing the design of my sister's new house. If you missed last week's installment for Jane's study, go HERE.

Well, the construction of Jane and P.W.'s house continues at a quick pace -- indeed, the exterior is all but finished, the drywall is up and the flooring is going down. As they've set a closing date for the end of the month, I'm going to redouble my efforts to finish the decorating plans for a few key rooms. This week, we'll be focusing on their master bedroom.

The master bedroom is generously sized at 14' x 16', with a nice bay window overlooking the backyard, which will make for a lovely seating area for reading and relaxing. Like many couples, Jane and P.W. are looking for a balance of masculine and feminine, warm and cool tones and all on a strict budget! Moreover, they already have a nice bedroom set and are hoping to get a new look without investing in new furniture. Fortunately, this means I'll be working with some great basics that can act as the foundation for our new design.

Jane and P.W.'s existing bedroom furniture are from Pottery Barn's Valencia bedroom furniture line, whose classic yet clean lined pieces are stained a dark mahogany, as well as an existing white armchair and ottoman. These pieces are the perfect transitional building blocks and will add weight and balance to the lighter, more eclectic accessories and small furniture items that we'll be layering in to create depth, interest and personality.

Jane has her heart set on this soft modern Ikat print duvet set from DwellStudio. It's palette of grey-blue, greige and sand will be the jumping off point for the room. We'll pull out the cool grey-blue with the sheets a throw pillow for the white chair and the warmer greige for the walls, painting the room in Farrow & Ball's Elephant Breath, a color with interest and depth that goes way above simple beige.

The next layer will come in with accessories. The first task will be to swap out the simple oil-rubbed bronze knobs on the dresser and side tables with some gorgeous mercury glass knobs from Anthropologie. Yes, they're a splurge when buying in bulk, but they'll completely transform the pieces, bringing in the more ornate, traditional elements that Jane is so drawn to.

Next, because this is a bedroom, I didn't want to get too crazy with color and pattern, opting instead to create interest by varying textures and materials. As the main furniture pieces are dark wood (as the floors will be), I wanted to create some balance with lighter accessories. A pair of alabaster table lamps bring in a classic material, while the modern silhouette echoes the simple lines of the furniture. A bone mirror over the long dresser will add interest and a feminine touch. A bone side table repeats the material over in the seating area, where we'll also add a leggy chair with a feminine print (in a not-so-feminine grey) to balance out the larger, skirted armchair. A small garden stool next to it will bring in a touch of metallic.

So here's the look all put together:--

Source list:

Elephant's Breath Paint (Farrow & Ball)

Valencia Sleigh Bed (Pottery Barn)

Emile Lamp (Crate & Barrel)

Mercury Glass Melon Knob (Anthropologie)

Valencia Side Table (Pottery Barn)

Round Bone Mirror (Wisteria)

Valencia Dresser (Pottery Barn)

Carly Chair (Crate & Barrel)

PB Basic Armchair (Pottery Barn)

Dotted Trellis Azure Pillow (DwellStudio)

Chinese Garden Stool (Wisteria)

Chenille Jute Basketweave Rug (Pottery Barn)

Pintuck Azure Sheets (DwellStudio)

Batavia Dove Duvet Set (DwellStudio)

Bone Side Table (West Elm)

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T21:46:00.000-05:00

My Dining Room Gets a Face Lift

2011-04-21T16:24:00.002-05:00

Last weekend while my in-laws were in from Florida for a visit, I finally found the opportunity to recover my dining room chairs. In our old house, I had covered our dining room chairs in a pretty (if a little bit dark) print from Marimekko, but the purple-grey and black print was all wrong for my navy and white dining room. Since moving into our new house in July of 2009, I had put off recovering the set, assuming I would be upgrading my dining room furniture in short order.

Well, flash forward nearly two years later and that dining room set is still there...and not going anywhere anytime soon thanks to a baby and a very expensive backyard renovation. And so, having resigned myself to keeping my furniture for another few years, I decided I should finally get around to recovering the seats. I scored two yards of a pretty blue and white print from Mod Green Pod at 50% off a few weeks ago that's much more in keeping with the room. I won't go into the process of recovering seat cushions as there are a plethora of how-to's online right now (and frankly it's super-easy...if you can wrap a present, you can recover a seat cushion).

I love how the print manages to brighten up the whole set -- sorely needed given the dark tones of the wood, especially against my dark wood floors. I've attempted to bring even more light to the center of the room by adding a white and silver runner from John Robshaw that I scored on One King's Lane a few years ago and a pair of silver peafowl from Joss & Main (yes, I love sample sale sites!). The lovely ginger jar print on the wall is by Anne Harwell and the frame is from ZGallerie.

I'd like to perk this room up a bit further with two other additions: either some great wall art or a mirror for the lone wall (which is visible from the entryway) and some fabulous drapes for the two windows on the left wall. While I continue to hunt for the perfect piece for the wall, I'm working on the drapes right now. I'm in love with Iman's new fabric line IMAN Home available at Calico Corners and have decided to use one of her fabrics for the drapes...the question is, which print?

While I'm leaving heavily towards Option A with its two shades of blue that coordinate with the seat fabric and its larger scale print, I wanted to take a quick poll and see what my readers thought. Besides, who doesn't love a poll?

So you tell me, what do you think?

Which fabric would you use for the drapes?

poll by twiigs.com

TradHome

2011-04-19T16:16:00.001-05:00

Have you checked out TradHome, the new online decor magazine? It's a collaboration between Lonny Magazine and Traditional Home and I'm loving the fresh, updated take on traditional design. In some ways, the magazine reads much like Traditional Home as it features the work of the magazine's 20 New Traditional Designers, which in itself is great as the short article they usually run in the magazine always leaves me wanting more. Even better though, TradHome takes advantage of its digital medium by incorporating videos (love the short video featuring Jonathan Adler and Charlotte Moss!) and of course tons of visual eye candy in its over 300 pages.

The main feature of this inaugural issue (please say this won't be a one-off!) is the work of the 20 New Traditional Designers, some of whom I was familiar with and love while others were knew to me. Of the 20, my top 5 (old and new) favorites:

Bonesteel Trout Hall

Bonesteel Trout Hall consists of a dynamite trio of interior designers that nails classic Californian style with ease. I love the Moroccan-meets-Western influences of this master bedroom. While there isn't a lot of color, there's a ton of gorgeous textures and intricate details to keep the eye interested.

Erika Powell

Erika's blog (Urban Grace) was one of the first design blogs I started following back in 2008, when my design obsession first took off. I've followed her career closely ever since and I was so thrilled to see her work featured here. Erika's style is decidedly traditional, but with a casual, beachy vibe that suits her Gulf Coast roots. And need I mention how much I love the vaulted ceiling in this master bedroom? I burn, I pine, I perish...

Jamie Herzlinger

The blue grasscloth wallpaper stopped me in my tracks while the intricate chinoiserie styling of the white chairs left me in a swoon. A rich cranberry velvet seat is a great balance to the blue walls and adds warmth that's nicely played up by the rich dark wood of the table. A modern chandelier is hung high enough not to obstruct the view of the gorgeous feature wall.

Sara Gilbane

Sara Gilbane's portfolio has been in my favorites' folder for some time now, but I love some of the more modern, updated work showcased in TradHome. This living room, which its classic Chesterfield done up in a peacock blue velvet juxtaposed with C. Jere's raindrops sculptures is a great blend of traditional and midcentury modern. Tonal horizontal stripes add subtle pattern and accentuate the high ceilings.

Tilton Fenwick

Another dining room with bold blue walls and white chairs, but this one has an entirely different feel with its luxe beach house look. I absolutely love the strong turquoise wall color, especially against the slick white furniture. Baker's tulip chair is a favorite of mine -- it's got a great classic shape streamlined and updated in a crisp modern lacquer. A white lacquer parsons table has a strong architectural presence that holds its own against (but does not compete with) the chairs' shape. It's "new traditional" at its best.

Have you checked out TradHome yet? If so, what did you think? Who were your favorite New Traditional designers?

Jane's House: The Study

2011-04-18T07:13:00.003-05:00

Today we're kicking off the design of Jane's house with her study, which will be in a 12' x 11' bedroom on the second floor of their new home. The room itself is fairly standard, though there is a lovely large West-facing window that we'll be playing up with some wonderful draperies. As this room will be primarily Jane's, we decided to go for a slightly more feminine look and play up the traditional-meets-bohemian look that feels just a bit English: think prep meets paisley. It's warm and comfortable, but still a little bit dressed up. Jane also requested a warmer color palette, professing a love for golds, oranges and reds. Of course, P.W. has declared an affinity for blues and grays, meaning that (as is so often the case), the decorator must put on her mediator cap and find a way to make both parties happy.

So where to begin? Well, I always like to find a rug or a fabric that really ties a room together; something that combines all the colors of the room into one fantastic print. From there, you can simply pull out wall colors and accent colors with ease. While I found this rug actually midway through the design process, I immediately knew it was the perfect piece to pull what had been disparate pieces together into a coherent design. Aside from the great color palette of sage green, orange, red-orange and slate blue, the large-scale floral pattern with its slightly raised pile reminds me of crewel work, lending it the sort of traditional-meets-bohemian vibe that I was going for. What makes this even better: at $329 (less a 25% discount we scored thanks to Horchow's frequent sales) for a 5' x 8', the rug is a good buy.

Next up are the fabric selections. Since Jane is a fan of warmer, earthier tones, I decided to pull out the rich orange in the rug as the primary accent color, with warm shades of chocolate brown and sand to keep the room grounded. The Moroccan-style tile print of the draperies is open, airy and fairly neutral, but still interesting. We'll pick up on the more exotic prints with an ikat print in two colorways of coral and sand. The bolder coral will go on the desk chair, while both colors will be made into throw pillows for the daybed (the one existing piece that's going into the room). Finally, a simple sand and chocolate ticking stripe will add a masculine, geometric touch to the space as another print for the pillows. Besides, I'm of the opinion that a room is never truly finished without some sort of stripe.

To balance the warm tones of all the fabrics, I decided to pull out the slate blue in the rug for the wall color (Benjamin Moore's Santorini Blue). Not only does the contrast of cooler walls with warmer fabrics and furniture create a more interesting room, but it also serves another key purpose: it brings in P.W.'s beloved blue-gray, ensuring his tastes are reflected in the room as well. Now that we've selected the color palette and fabrics, it's time to pull everything together:

As I noted, the only existing furniture we're working with is the West Elm daybed. We'll keep with the chocolate brown finish for the other major furniture pieces as well, selecting clean, modern furniture with simple lines and smaller foot prints to suit the dimensions of the room. Jane originally was attracted to a sawhorse-style desk she saw in a Ballard Designs catalogue; however, P.W. requested a glass-top desk, so we found this one on sale at Pottery Barn for under $300 that combines the glass-top with the open, sawhorse-style that Jane was so attracted to in the other piece. I opted for a simple Parsons-style chair (with slightly flared front legs, which lends it a bit more grace and femininity) upholstered in a vivid orange ikat -- just as comfortable, and infinitely more attractive than an ugly office chair.

To make up for the lack of storage, I selected a small filing cabinet from West Elm (that can also pull double duty as a side table) and some West Elm woven storage boxes in creams and slate blues add texture and are pretty enough to leave out. On the other side of the daybed, a vibrant orange table adds interest and color and breaks up all the dark brown furniture. A vintage-style task lamp from Pottery Barn adds a bit of antique flavor and interest.

Source List:

Firenze Embroidered Panel in Chocolate (Ballard Designs)
Malabar Fabric in Sand and Coral (Ballard Designs)
Ticking Stripe in Chocolate/Cream (Mod Green Pod)
Woven Storage Boxes (West Elm)

Modular File Cabinet (West Elm)

Upholstered Couture Chair in Malabar Coral (Ballard Designs)

Photographer's Task Table Lamp (Pottery Barn)

Ava Desk (Pottery Barn)

Martini Side Table in Persimmon (West Elm)

Vanessa Rug (Horchow)

Santorini Blue by Benjamin Moore

Of course, I'll post pictures once the room is finished (should be sometime in June), but in the meantime we'll continue to search for a few fun accessories and art to really make the space sing.

Jane's House

2011-04-15T12:22:00.000-05:00

Jane's House (as of April 15, 2011)

I know it may feel like I have abandoned you, but I promise I have not. Indeed, I've been hard at work on a new project (and a series here on Odi et Amo) -- Jane's House! My sister and her husband P.W. are designing and building a new home in the greater Houston area (right near me, in fact!) and I'm both honored and excited that they've asked for my help in decorating a few of the rooms.

While the house is still under construction, we're already starting to plan how to decorate it -- after all, that's the fun part, right? Jane and P.W. are almost doubling the square footage of their last home, so they'll be needing quite a bit of new stuff to fill the house. So, while several rooms will remain largely empty for the time being, they'd still like a few rooms to be "done" enough to feel like home. And, of course, since this is reality, they're also on a budget.

The Floor Plan

Over the course of the next few weeks, I'll be laying out some ideas for my sister on a few key rooms: her study, the master bedroom, P.W.'s media room (i.e., his pride and joy) and the open concept living room/kitchen. Throughout this process, my goals remain three-fold: to keep my "clients" happy, to stay within their budget and to demonstrate that great design can indeed come at an affordable price and from accessible sources (i.e., everything will come from "big box" stores -- no trade-only here!).

Stay tuned for the first installment next week: Jane's study! In the meantime, have a wonderful weekend!

Baby G. Update: Week 5

2011-04-07T14:05:00.000-05:00

On Monday Baby G. turned one month old and I have to say it both feels like he's been around forever and that he was just born yesterday. What makes me happiest is that I feel like I'm starting to get more back every day: he's more alert, more active, and even starting to coo and verbalize some! Even better, we're starting to get more sleep as he's been sleeping 5-7 hours straight at night for the past 10 days or so. I know, I know...I shouldn't brag and it's likely to come back to bite me in the behind in a few weeks or months (or with the next child), but for now I'm eternally grateful for the rest.

So far, his favorite activity (apart from eating, of course!) seems to be laying on my bed, staring at the ceiling fan, but he also loves car rides and walks in his stroller. He's a pretty serious baby, perhaps due to Dave's habit of discussing news and politics with him every night, and is already showing signs of being very independent. He tends to prefer sleeping in his bassinet to in someone's arms and is already good at falling asleep on his own (provided he doesn't get himself too worked up first!).

As you can tell from those chubby cheeks, he's also putting on weight like a champ. At his one month check-up last week, he weighed in at 10 pounds, 8 ounces and based on our inexact weigh-in at home, he's now over 11! I certainly hope he's an early walker because at this rate, I won't be able to carry him for long!

The Elephant in the Room

2011-04-05T17:45:00.001-05:00

Palmer Weiss

It's no secret that elephants are an incredibly popular motif in interior design right now. From paperweights to side tables, they're popping up just about everywhere. My favorite iteration so far though has to be this chic console table, shown above in classic white and below in cherry red. It's safari-chic but all glammed up in slick lacquer.

Ruthie Sommers

You can snag one for yourself from Circa Who on 1stDibs. If you're looking for a less expensive way to bring an elephant home with you, here are a few other great options:

Source list (clockwise, from top left): (1) Hook, Anthropologie; (2) Cast-Metal Elephant, West Elm; (3) Bottle Stopper, ZGallerie; (4) Bookshelf, DwellStudio; (5) Blue Elephant, Pieces; (6) Stationery, Iomoi; (7) Tape Dispenser, Iomoi; (8) Side Table, Revival Home & Garden; (9) Silk-Screen Print, Serena & Lily; (10) Salt & Pepper Shakers, Jonathan Adler; and (11) Pillow, John Robshaw.

HUGE Sale at Mod Green Pod!

2011-04-01T17:00:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to alert everyone to a huge sale going on now at Mod Green Pod, an eco-friendly fabric and wallpaper company based in Austin, Texas. Everything, yes, everything is currently 50% off. Fabrics are now $15/yard for solids and $20/yard for prints. Wallpaper is currently $55 a roll. Hurry while supplies last! I'm thinking of picking up some fabric to recover a small bench I bought on One King's Lane a few months ago.

And no, I'm not a paid promoter, just a big fan. A few years ago, I used their Grand Jubliee fabric in cream to recover a wingback chair. It's now one of my favorite pieces of furniture -- and where I nurse Baby G. every night!

Happy weekend!

Spring/Summer Essentials

2011-03-28T22:02:00.002-05:00

Although Houston enjoys moderate winters, there's just something about Spring that puts a little bounce in my step. Perhaps it's the promise of summer (though my summer vacations have long since passed) or the newly budding flowers, but a gorgeous spring day never fails to put me in a good mood. And, of course, I love spring and summer fashions: the bright colors, the perky prints, fabulous sandals and wedges...it's just so refreshing after months of grays on black.

This Spring, I'm looking to update my wardrobe with some fresh new staples that are easy wearing...and easy washing (both Baby G. and I seem to go through several wardrobe changes a day now)! The type of clothes that will transition from mommy-hood to my pretty casual office. Navy and white (especially white jeans!) are my go-to's for warmer weather, but I'll be updating the classic nautical pairing with bright accessories like those gorgeous Tory Burch Sandals (orange and hot pink are both amazing with navy) and fun prints like Kate Spade's Daycation shopper. An on-trend maxi dress in a bold print is an easy weekend staple that will keep me cool and casual without feeling schleppy. Finally, I'm longing to swap out my everyday watch for something fun, light and a little bit different, like Michael Kors' resin and rose gold watch.

Clockwise (from top left): Coral Dress (Tory Burch), Jersey Blazer (Boden), Daycation Bon Shopper (Kate Spade), Denim Pleated Trouser Short (Gap), Gold Coast Lacey wallet (Kate Spade), Stripe Sunburst Tank (J.Crew), Horton Sandals (Tory Burch), Michael Kors Show Stopper Resin Watch (Nordstrom), Sexy Boot Surplus Jeans in White (Gap), and Dorrie Skirt (J.Crew).

What pieces are you craving this Spring? Any new trends you're dying to try out?

Baby G. gets his portrait taken

2011-03-24T18:06:00.002-05:00

Last weekend my college roommate (who married my cousin!) came over to take pictures of Baby G. for his birth announcement. I went with an announcement from Pear Tree Greetings, which has a great selection of modern stationery that's highly customizable. Of course, I had to do an aqua and orange color theme to go with his nursery. Here are a few of the gorgeous pictures Lisa took:

Elizabeth Taylor

2011-03-23T21:28:00.001-05:00

I wanted to acknowledge Elizabeth Taylor's passing today. I was a huge admirer of her work, especially her title role in the 1963 version of Cleopatra, which ranks in my top 10 for all-time favorite movies. After all, with Elizabeth Taylor, Rex Harrison, Richard Burton how can you go wrong (especially when you put them into a 1960s epic with some seriously fantastic costumes and sets)? Besides, for Hollywood, it's fairly accurate insofar as it closely follows Plutarch and other ancient (albeit Roman and heavily biased) sources on the Queen.

Burton and Taylor set the screen on fire as Antony and Cleopatra. Fun fact: this is the film in which they first met and began their romance (though they were both already married!). If you haven't seen Cleopatra, I strongly encourage you to go rent it and watch it this weekend in tribute. In any case, as far as I'm concerned, few stars today possess Elizabeth's beauty, poise, style talent and star power. She will be both remembered and missed.

Miles Redd loves velvet sofas...and so do I

2011-03-22T19:37:00.002-05:00

Most designers tend to have a few favorite things (be it a particular color, pattern or even piece of furniture) that they use over and over again in their work. And sometimes that repetition can become a designer's trademark, their personal signature on a space. For Miles Redd, there are a number of elements that the New York based designer returns to again and again: bold color on the walls (often in high gloss), animal print and Chinoiserie all immediately leap to mind. But one thing I hadn't noticed until today was Redd's penchant for rich velvet sofas, often in bold jewel-tone hues. And like Miles, I can't seem to get enough.

Why velvet? Well you'd have to ask Miles himself; however, in my opinion, velvet has the perhaps unique ability to feel at once incredibly luxurious, but also incredibly comfortable and inviting. I can never keep my hands off of it -- and it's this gorgeous textural experience that I suspect keeps Redd coming back. Besides that, velvet works anywhere, from a TV room or study to a more formal salon or living room. It's unquestionably the star that plays so beautifully with Redd's maximalist style.

Is there anything sexier than red velvet? Maybe just red velvet set against pink walls. I love how Redd sets these feminine colors off against the serious artwork and otherwise more masculine feel of the room.

The rich olive green is a nice visual rest from the bold patterns of the rug and pillows. By repeating the wall color in the center of the large room, it also helps ground the floating seating group and keeps the space from feeling too expansive.

A rich chocolate brown velvet feels positively decadent, especially when played off against bold stripes and cheetah print chairs. The ruffled taffeta curtains in the icy blue bring in some coolness to the otherwise very warm space.

The shape of this sofa (enhanced all the more with the nailhead detailing) is absolutely to die for. The green is a nice counterpoint to the rich reds in elsewhere in the room. And those Elkins chairs? Love!

More red velvet, this time with a fringe skirt. The black and white fabrics and art are such a great balance, lending this room a decidedly modern edge despite the traditional furniture and layout.

When I think of orange velvet, I think of this hideous orange chair from the '70s that Dave had when I first met him in Austin. And yet somehow, this orange velvet seems to work. If I were that little girl though, I'd be napping on it rather than on the floor.

More olive green velvet! Such a rich pairing with the deep teals and oranges in the room. This has to be one of my all-time favorite rooms of Redd's.

So what do you think of velvet sofas? Love 'em, too, or hate 'em?

Baby G. Update: Week 2

2011-03-19T17:49:00.003-05:00

In some ways, it feels like an eternity since we brought Graham home from the hospital; in others, it feels like the blink of an eye. So far, we have been blessed with a healthy, generally happy baby who's been growing like a weed (an inch and 1 lb, 6 oz. in a mere 13 days!) and even giving us some (relative) rest. This week, we've seen a decrease in the quantity and increase in the quality of his naps; he's even been sleeping for 4 or 5 hour stretches at night! I chalk this up to the benefit of having a larger, full-term baby as well as our continued efforts to put him down at the first signs of sleepiness rather than waiting for him to get overtired and fussy.

On Monday Dave returned to work and I've been adjusting to playing a stay-at-home-mom. I'm off work through May and starting to get into the rhythms of my new life. The first few days I felt very panicky and my anxiety translated to some difficulties breast feeding (largely now resolved thanks to the invaluable help of a wonderful lactation consultant). Physically, I'm feeling better and more like myself every day and am thrilled to be back down to my pre-pregnancy weight already (which, admittedly, is about 10 to 15 lbs heavier than my preferred weight, but we'll worry about that later...).

All this notwithstanding, I'm not going to say it's been all roses. The idea of someone being so utterly dependent on me still scares me to death and the thought of not getting an uninterrupted night's sleep for at least another few months is utterly depressing. I also long for the time when he's able to interact more (though he is becoming more and more alert every day). But...I have to remind myself that babies are newborns for such a short period of time and that I need to savor what he can offer now; namely, being utterly adorable. And yes, I'm a bit biased...but shouldn't I be?

Vintage, yet modern kitchen

2011-03-18T12:18:00.000-05:00

When you look at shelter magazines and design blogs as much as I do, it can sometimes feel like you've seen absolutely everything before. Been there, done that. Sometimes it feels like the more I dive into design, the harder it is for designers to truly knock my socks off and show me something I haven't seen before. Kitchens and baths seem particularly vulnerable to my growing design ennui as designers and builders continue to cling to the same predictable styles and materials.

But of course, every so often a room comes along that reinforces why I fell in love with interior design in the first place. This updated vintage kitchen belongs to Bob Williams (of Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams) and it, along with the rest of the home, is featured in this month's Traditional Home. And I love it. The mix of materials, from Carrara marble (an exception to my grip about tiring of seeing the same materials over and over again) to honed granite (a finish I'm loving so much more than polished right now!) and butcher block is superb, especially alongside those dark teal cabinets (brilliant!) and the mix of new and old appliances and lighting. It's the best of vintage and modern and perfectly suits an older, remodeled home. The overall effect is elegant, but also warm, inviting and intensely personal.

The modern red drum shades are a bold touch of color that matches the intensity of the deep teal cabinetry and beautifully sets off the black and white tile floor. The few upper cabinets along the back wall are painted off-white to blend in with the walls and help keep the room feeling open and bright.

While there's a lot to be said for ultra-modern, high tech appliances, they never have quite the same charm as a vintage piece. The concealed vent hood ensures that the focus stays put on the 1930s range.

In yet another nod to the home's period, Williams converted a vintage 1940s walk-in cooler into a pantry. Now how clever is that? I also adore the marble baseboards and wall-to-wall subway tiles. Talk about easy cleanup!

Master Bedroom Design: Almost There...

2011-03-14T07:46:00.000-05:00

Back in December, I updated y'all on my master bedroom (re)design as we swapped out our queen bed for a king and our tiny end tables and dresser for more ample (and more glamorous) storage. At the time, I was dubious as to whether or not I'd be able to get anymore done on the room before Baby G's arrival, as the nursery had become my top priority decorating-wise.

Well, I suppose that nesting instinct really kicked in my last few months of pregnancy and I was able to add a few more decorative touches that really make the room feel more complete. While I'd still like to add some curtain panels around the three-windows and some artwork (or something!) on the wall opposite the bed, I feel like the room is really starting to take shape.

I added this sunburst mirror that I picked up from Horchow on sale over the the long dresser. The finish is a goldish-silver (or gliver) that I think adds some warmth to the room. I didn't want to stick with just silver -- it seemed too matchy-matchy (and a bit cold with all the grey in the room!). The other big change on this end of the room was swapping out my old (and a bit dull) Pottery Barn rug for this graphic cream and blue flatweave from DwellStudio.

My big splurge was this Jonathan Adler screen (also scored at Horchow on sale). I really wanted something substantial in this corner, not only to fill the space, but to help balance out the height of the four-poster bed on the opposite wall.

I love, love this vintage Chinoiserie lamp. I scored it off High Street Market on Etsy some months ago (alas, it had been languishing in my hall closet for months before I got around to finding a black paper shade for it). I also added a greek key finial for that extra little touch.

A few more shots of the room in its almost finished state. I'll be honest, since the arrival of Baby G. the room isn't looking quite as pristine, what with G.'s bassinet next to the screen and my dresser now cleared off to make way for the changing pad and associated accoutrement. We'll be moving Baby G. upstairs to the nursery in a month or two when his sleeping schedule stabilizes, but for now I'd like to remember my bedroom as the sanctuary it was, rather than the mess it's rapidly become!

Ah well, I know in time we'll get there again!

Graham Kirk

2011-03-06T15:45:00.001-06:00

Graham Kirk arrived on Friday morning at 11:08 am at a hearty 8 pounds and 10 ounces, 20.5 inches. After checking into the hospital Thursday evening with regular contractions, we ended up having to kick-start my labor with Pitocin around 3 am (don't worry, I caught some solid sleep from 10 pm on). Once my doctor broke my water at 8 am, things quickly accelerated (as did the pain!) and we were pushing by 10. Dave was fantastic throughout, as were the nurses -- all in all, much less scary than I expected.

We got back home last night and it's definitely been an adjustment to our schedules and our lives. Family and friends have been fantastic though, cooking and cleaning and changing diapers while I work on nursing and healing (unfortunately, I lost a significant amount of blood so I'm working on getting my strength back as well). I'll be taking a few weeks off from blogging while we adjust to this new addition to the family.

Many thanks for all the well wishes late last week! Y'all definitely gave me the extra encouragement I needed to get through the last few days.

Plannin' and Dreamin'...

2011-03-01T13:08:00.006-06:00

Wishin' and hopin' and thinkin' and prayin'
Plannin' and dreamin' each night of his charms
That won't get him into my arms

Okay, so I may be taking some liberties with the old Dionne Warwick song, but the essential message is the same: if wishes were horses, beggars would ride. I'm 39 weeks pregnant today, 4 cm dilated and waiting for everything to start. I went to see my OB/GYN yesterday and she expressed surprise that I was still pregnant. Trust me, after several false starts over the past 3 weeks, I'm surprised, too. Even my Gmail seems surprised, as these past two weeks I've ceased receiving my weekly prenatal updates from various and sundry websites that I've been perusing during pregnancy.

Yes, I know, I'm not even technically at my due date yet, but with everyone in my family delivering early (even with the first one), I half expected to be in a similar boat. After weeks of co-workers marveling "you're still here?!" and daily texts from family and friends alike "just checking in," I can't help but feel a bit of pressure to get on with things -- as if I had any control of it!

Well, I suppose I have some control of it. These days an induction after 39 weeks is offered up as an option without any required medical need whatsoever. And that makes me a bit nervous. Shouldn't we wait until the baby is good and ready? Isn't it also true that the average pregnancy actually runs longer than the 40 weeks allocated to women by their doctors? The answer to both is "yes"...and yet....

Now that I find myself at this late stage of pregnancy, I'm suddenly very sympathetic with women who elect to make this decision. Indeed, there's some comfort in having a firm deadline, in being able to wrap up things at the office in a definitive manner without the vague (and often unhelpful) "I'll be here 'til the baby comes...whenever that is" response. A response, by the way, that my clients have not been particularly receptive of. Everybody likes a due date, a deadline, a goal. Letting nature take its course is so antithetical to modern life, where we attempt to control everything. Patience and flexibility just don't seem to jive with our schedules.

So what have I decided to do? Well, I've currently got an induction scheduled for Friday, which would require Dave and I to show up at the hospital at the unholy hour of 4 am in the hopes of having a baby sometime before COB (close of business) on Friday. Very convenient for my doctor, yes? I'm justifying this decision on account of my (normally very low) blood pressure having creeped up in the past few weeks. While not at dangerous levels, this upward trend is somewhat worrisome. In the interim, I'm working from home, walking twice a day and praying to God that he'll come of his own volition. If not? Then I suppose I'll let Science take his course and pray that I'm not making the wrong decision.

Baffling Pregnancy Products

2011-02-27T22:04:00.000-06:00

There are some truly ridiculous pregnancy products out on the market today. While I understand that expectant mothers may want to create some keepsakes and mementos of such a big event, I daresay that there are a few memories that may not really be worth memorializing and reliving.

Recently I joined zulily, a Gilt Group-style sample sale site dedicated to products for children and maternity. While zulily has great sales on lots of wonderful products (email me if you want an invite!), from time to time they do hawk some rather ridiculous products. This week, the belly casts on offer from Proud Body take first prize in my (very unofficial) "Baffling Pregnancy Products" contest.

A belly cast. Really?! For starters, the process for making a belly cast would be not only a bit ridiculous, but potentially uncomfortable. The last thing I really want to do right now is get naked and drape wet plaster across my giant belly and then let it dry (itchy!). And once it dries...what exactly am I supposed to do with it? Well, I suppose you could always perk up that plain plaster cast with some paint:

These look like baby shower games gone very, very wrong.

And again....then what?! Am I going to hang this up in my house with pride? Not a chance. Not to put too fine a point on it, but I'll go ahead and say it: they're all kind of, well, hideous (though I'll admit the frog is a rather clever use of the shape). Beyond that though, what an incredibly awkward (and personal) thing to show off to friends and neighbors. "Oh that? That's just my naked torso when I was 39 weeks pregnant with Junior -- weren't my breasts magnificent?" Talk about embarrassing Junior.

I mean, I've heard of bronzing baby shoes, but this is just ridiculous....

And no, I'm not ashamed of my pregnancy body. In fact, I'm rather proud of it given that I've managed to keep my weight gain to about 20 lbs., the bulk of which is in my bump, as it should be. That said though, I don't really feel the need to immortalize it in plaster.

Second prize goes to the Mommy Measure Pregnancy Tape. I spied this one in a parenting magazine I was flipping through at my OB/GYN's office last week. Now, you can track your growing belly's progress, marking off those inches with little hearts. Seriously. This can't be a big seller. Most women I know don't even want to know their weight at the doctor's office!

Frankly, I found it upsetting enough to realize that not only did I no longer fit into my own jeans, but I didn't fit into my husband's either (and, at this point, I'm not even close to that). I just can't picture myself pulling this sucker out in a few years time and marveling at how at one point my waistline passed 38" (and then 40"...) inches!

What about you? Spied any baffling pregnancy products out on the market? If so, please share!

10 Reasons I Love this Master Bedroom

2011-02-21T20:48:00.001-06:00

1. The color palette. Wheat and cream punctuated with cool slate blue and rich coffee is soothing, gender neutral and classic. The perfect choice for a master bedroom where you're looking to balance competing tastes and create a sense of calm.

2. The iron chandelier with wood bead trim (Visual Comfort). It's a wonderful mix of materials that lends the traditional shape a very up-to-date feel.

3. The bold curtains. While the fabrics used on the bed are quiet and monochromatic, the African inspired print from Peter Fasano lends a much needed graphic punch. The dark coffee tone picks up on the dark wood of the bed frame while the slate blue trim ties in with the other blue accents used throughout the space.

4. The ceiling moldings! I'm a sucker for a gorgeous ceiling, and the beautiful trim here is classic, but still streamlined enough to work in a more transitional space.

5. The greek key rug. I'm of the opinion that greek key is a pattern that goes with absolutely everything -- and it's a great way to bring in some geometry when you're working with florals, paisleys or other more intricate (and feminine) patterns. Besides, I love something soft underfoot in the bedroom.

6. The sunburst mirror. Despite being ubiquitous, sunburst mirrors are still a favorite of mine -- and this one from Ironies is absolutely stunning.

7. The curtains hung around the bed. The oatmeal linen (the same linen used on the duvet) with the wrought-iron hardware is simple and unfussy -- essential for keeping the room more gender neutral and adult. The subtle ribbon and button trim on the drapery adds a touch of glamorous luxury while still keeping the overall look understated. I also like how high they're mounted (to the height of the windows), which accentuate the high ceilings and help balance out the large windows adjacent to the bed.

8. That painting (by Christina Long). While I'm a lover of art for art's sake (and not just for matching your decor), that painting does an outstanding job of bringing together all the colors used in the room. It's also lovely and intriguing in its own right. Bonus: Christina Long's work is also relatively affordable!

9. The beautiful throw pillows. If the bed is the star of a bedroom, then the throw pillows are the star's jewelry -- and it's essential that they shine. The mix of fabrics and styles on these pillows is lovely and tie in the room's color palette without feeling matchy-matchy. Note how the bolster includes a trim reminiscent of the drapery's zebra-inspired print while the euro shams incorporates the embroidered linen on the bed's drapery.

10. In short, this room epitomizes classic, thoughtful design at its best.

Photography Credit: Traditional Home. Interior Design: Amy Bergman.

What I Want This Spring: A Stripe Blazer

2011-02-17T19:09:00.004-06:00

At 37 weeks and 2 days pregnant, I'm absolutely dying to get back into "normal" clothes (or have my normal clothes fit, well, normally). While it will probably be a few more months before I do any serious shopping to let my weight/size settle back down, the top of my wishlist is a stripe blazer, which is popping up everywhere this spring. Blazers have always been my go to piece for the office and even on the weekend when I want to look pulled together. Either way, I'd pair with white or dark denim and some fabulous wedges. Wear a bright colored top (like orange!) or mix in a small-scale floral to make a bigger statement.

Source List: (1) Maritime Stripe Blazer (J.Crew; $118); (2) Striped Jacket (Banana Republic; $167.99); (3) Bailey 44 'Gyro' Jacket (Nordstrom; $187); (4) Robert Rodriguez Stripe Blazer (Nordstrom; $375); (5) Elizabeth and James Preppy Striped Blazer (Sakes Fifth Avenue; $425); (6) Navy Breton Stripe Jersey Blazer (Boden; $98).

What's on your shopping list this spring?

The JuJu Hat: Are you over it?

2011-02-15T19:30:00.001-06:00

Last night I was watching Dear Genevieve on my DVR. Genevieve was decorating a small office, the focal point of which was going to be a juju hat. And it got me thinking how fascinating it is that these feathered Camaroonian ceremonial headdresses (also known as tyns) have become the darlings of the design world. How in the heck did that happen? Sure, they add a wonderful pop of color and texture to a wall and are a fun conversation piece. But now, with their debut on HGTV, they've officially gone mainstream.

So the question I have for you is: are you over it? I'll be honest, I've got mixed feelings on the subject. I hate the idea of spending several hundred bucks on what is probably just the next "Keep Calm" trend and yet I can't deny their ability to add some wonderful color and texture to a space -- as all of these wonderful examples show.

Sally Wheat (via High Gloss)

As an avid fan of bright color, I can't help but be drawn to the bright orange juju hat against the soft gray walls. The color also ties in nicely with the orange flowers on the mantle. Sometimes, it just takes a little splash of bold color to make a big statement.

Laura Day

Another brilliant red-orange example, this time against a bright yellow wall. There's just something so incredibly happy about these colors; this is a room that could make even doing your taxes less chore-like.

Jenn Cranston (via Canadian House and Home)

In a room full of whites and neutrals, the white juju hat adds a nice touch of texture (essential for keeping a neutral space from being a total snooze fest).

Elizabeth Martin (via Elle Decor)

I've got to say, I'm falling more and more in love with orange everyday -- especially when played off against blues or grays. It just feels incredibly fresh and sophisticated but still (and I think this is so important in design) fun. The hat's African origins compliment the other exotic accessory choices, including the zebra skin rug.

Alessandra Branca

This pink and chocolate brown lounge is an all-time favorite of mine -- and I only just noticed it sports a white juju hat on the wall! I think the white juju plays up the crisp white trim nicely and really pops against the hot pink walls. It's also a fun mix with the Chinoiserie print chairs and traditional furnishings.

LivingEtc

Of all the examples of juju hats I found, this bubblegum pink (with a dash of black) version might be my favorite. It fits perfectly over the asymmetrical fireplace and is balanced nicely by the narrow tapestry in the adjacent niche.

Hout Bay Manor, South Africa

Two red jujus, one over each doorway, are a nice way to highlight the red trim around the walls. I must say though that what I'm most drawn to in this room is that stunning floral artwork over the sofa, which is really just stunning.

Photograph by Melanie Acevedo

I love the bright, warm colors of this room, which are nicely tempered by the white walls and neutral sofa. I'm a big fan of very traditional Victorian spaces painted out in white and decorated in a modern, colorful style. It just always seems to work.

The rich jewel tones of this room are fantastic. Despite the fact that nothing "matches," all the bright colors work so beautifully together because they're all the same level of saturation. The lack of print (save for the over scale floral of the rug) keeps the noise level down as well. Could all this be achieved without a juju? Absolutely, but it's a eclectic touch that works well with the Moroccan pouf, midcentury chair and loveseat and the very ornate console. By the way, I have no idea who to credit this room to. If you know, please share so I can give proper credit!

Where to Buy. If you're not over this trend, there are a number of good e-stores that carry jujus in a variety of colors and deliver internationally:

Laviva Home (USA)
Table Tonic (Australia)
Design My World (UK)

So now that I've shown you some examples, I want your opinion.

poll by twiigs.com

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T21:16:00.000-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day, my darlings! I hope each of you got to spend the day with your sweetie and other loved ones. As always, many thanks for your continued support of Odi et Amo.

Hugs and Kisses,

Averill

Photography Credit: Doxie Valentine courtesy of Persnickety Pelican.

Bedding for the Fashionista

2011-02-09T18:31:00.001-06:00

As with throw pillows, there are approximately a bazillion fabulous options for bedding. And I for one can never get enough. Truly, great bedding can make a bedroom -- and it's far easier to swap out with the seasons (or your mood) than furniture. If you're a lover of linens like me, then you'll be thrilled to hear about a few more wonderful options to add to your wish list. Two of my favorite fashion designers are jumping into the home goods market by launching bedding collections at Bloomingdale's this month.

Diane Von Furstenberg's new bedding collection (available now) is, unsurprisingly, all about bold, colorful prints that are right on trend (think batik and animal print). In short, exactly the kind of bright, bold prints that I gravitate towards (and why I covet DVF's iconic wrap dresses). One could argue that it would take an adventurous, confident person to pull these rooms off, but I'm a big believer of "fake it til you make it." Basing a bedroom around some of these prints will not only make you look confident, but ultimately feel confident. After all, how could you wake up in one of these beds and not feel like you could take on the world?

Kate Spade's collection (available later this month) is softer, with a feminine, preppy vibe with that slightly playful twist that the label is famous for. These are the pretty linens you'd expect to see on in a chic bachelorette pad or perhaps in the guest rooms of a classic east coast beach house. Regardless, these are the types of linens that make me sigh and think "oooh....pretty."

The Nursery Reveal!

2011-02-07T06:30:00.028-06:00

Apologies for being a week late in getting pictures of the nursery up on the blog, but I was waylayed a bit by work and weather last week and couldn't get the finishing touches put in the nursery until this weekend. Last Friday I showed you a photo of the finished window seat, complete with cushions (which I ordered in Sunbrella fabric for maximum stain-resistance/durability). While I stuck with a neutral off-white cushion, I had a contrast welt done in orange to inject a bit of fun and pick up on the orange grosgrain trim on the pillows and pelmet box.

Dave and I made the pelmet box from some thin pieces of MDF, glued and screwed together and then thickened by Styrofoam (adds a nice visual heft without any extra weight). I then wrapped the three sided box in batting and used a staple gun to affix the fabric. Orange grosgrain ribbon in two thicknesses was then added with some simple fabric glue. My mom and I then made two throw pillows with leftover fabric and trim. The pillows are a simple envelope style, which eliminates the annoyance of sewing in a zipper, but still allows for removal for washing (essential in a kid's room, I'd imagine).

But you've seen this photo already. Time for some new eye candy, right? Before we get to that though, a reminder of what the room looked like before (think storage room):

Inauspicious start, yes? Well, after cleaning the room out (and several trips to Goodwill), I was able to finally get to work on the nursery in December. After several weekends of smaller DIY projects (the crib skirt, pelmet box and pillows), waiting around on painters (didn't have the energy this time around to paint the room myself) and assembling quite a bit of furniture, it's finally finished (well, mostly!):

Of course, the room really won't be finished until Baby G. makes his debut and it gets crammed full of photographs, toys, clothes, diapers....in short, the room really starts to live. But I'm really happy with how the bones of the room have turned out. There's plenty of room to grow, but it's also cozy enough to feel like home straight away.

I'm still in love with my schoolhouse-inspired ceiling fan. I've decided to forgo a mobile over the crib for now because I hear many babies are more enraptured by a ceiling fan than any mobile...and hopefully Baby G. will fall into that group! Besides, it was impossible finding one in my color scheme (and right now I'm not up to the task of making on myself!).

I ordered the glider back in November, but only just received it a few weeks ago. While I loved the aqua-on-blue polka dot fabric in the store, I had some serious reservations almost as soon as I came home: would the polka dots be too loud? Would I regret not going with a solid color? Would the blues work with the wall paint? Fortunately, when the glider finally arrived, I was relieved to see that it wasn't nearly the disaster that I'd built it up in my head to be; in fact, I rather like it and the polka dots are a playful, fun addition to the room without being overly loud.

My mom made a nice lap quilt with more of the O&L fabric. The back and binding is a multicolored polka dot print, which picks up on the polka dot print on the glider and around the monogram.

The "g" monogram and was my first real attempt at wall stickers. I must say, it was easier to apply than I feared and the end result looks like I painstakingly and meticulously painted the monogram on the wall. I gussied up the white Jonathan Adler-knock off floor lamp with some spare grosgrain ribbon (again, affixed with simple fabric glue).

The rug is from DwellStudio and a great buy at $200. At 5'x8' it fits the room nicely and will be a great play area for Baby G. when he gets a little older. I intentionally left a lot of floor space in the room for tummy time, playing, crawling etc. I think all kids' rooms need that extra space for creativity and play.

With little wall space left, Dave and I installed the bookrack from Pottery Barn Kids. I went with an ultraslim rack over a traditional bookcase both because I love how it shows off the colorful kids' books, but also because I had little wall space left that wasn't near a door (and I didn't want to crowd the room out). Currently, it houses my collection of Roald Dahl books as well as some cute board books I received as shower gifts. The top shelf has baby pictures of Dave and I in fab zigzag frames I scored at Furbish Studio (because not everything in a kid's room needs to be from a kid's store!).

Source List:

Crib: Oeuf

Dresser/Changing Table: Oeuf

Glider: Little Castle

Window Seat Cushions: CushionSource.com

Rug: DwellStudio

Bookrack: Pottery Barn Kids
Floor Lamp: ZGallerie

Fitted Crib Sheet: Giggle

Fabric for crib skirt, pelmet box, pillows and throw: Osborne & Little

Ribbon Trim: M+J Trimming

Wall Decal: Elephannie

Letterpress Prints: Sycamore Street Press

Alphabet Poster: Binth
Chevron Frames: Furbish Studio
Ceiling Fan: The Period Arts Fan Company
Wall Paint: Forget Me Not by Benjamin Moore
Ceiling Paint: Icing on the Cake by Benjamin Moore

Baby Shower Recap

2011-02-03T06:23:00.000-06:00

I wanted to share some photos of my baby shower to show off how amazingly talented, creative and generous my friends (and sister) are. While I love design, party planning is definitely not my forte. My go-to formula is to book a private or semi-private room at a fun restaurant, get my friend Natalie to make invitations and then just show up! In contrast though, my friend Jess (blogger behind Jackson's Lane) is an amateur party planner (who should maybe consider going pro!). She turned my friend Christina's beautiful home into the perfect spot for a shower with beautiful, tasteful decorations, thoughtful details and some really great food (much of which I have my sister Chef Babs to thank for).

The theme of the shower was "feather the nest," so of course the primary decorations were birds and feathers. I loved the feather wreath over the fireplace decorated with BB Conn's initial and a glittery bird. The colors are very "Martha Stewart" to me and then blend in perfectly with the home's more traditional decor, softer color palette and soft gold touches. I think that's a huge part of decorating for a party: the theme and decorations really need to work with your home's existing decor.

Simple white roses and blue hydrangea are scattered throughout the downstairs in small clusters. I think this is a great way to get a lot of bang for your buck and you can be guaranteed to get a sophisticated look when you keep arrangements simple, tight and petite.

Large manzanita branches in a tall vase (filled with feathers, of course!) create a fanciful tree for more glittery birds. Guests were asked to write notes and advice on pretty paper ornaments and hang them on the tree. I thought this was a great touch and a wonderful keepsake for the honoree -- and it would work equally well at a bridal shower.

A close up of the tags. I thought the paper was absolutely lovely and the tiny birds nests brought texture and a bit of color.

The ladies show that even paper plates and plastic cutlery can look chic with the right presentation. I also love the mint julep cup for the floral arrangement.

Jess decorated the dessert buffet with arrangements featuring baby/toddler pictures of Dave and I. The height of the arrangements work perfectly with the tall mirror and the pictures add the perfect personal touch. Again, this would work equally well at a bridal shower or engagement party.

The dessert spread. Don't you love the cupcakes decorated to look like bird nests? My sister made them with toasted coconut and candied eggs. My sister and I joked that I'd get gestational diabetes from my shower! Given that she insisted I take the leftover cake home, I'm starting to fear that there may have been some truth in our jests!

The favors were cookies made by Jess's sister-in-law, who turns out to be (in addition to an OB/GYN) a fabulous baker/decorator. I love how they incorporate my nursery colors as well as the shower's avian theme. They tasted as good as they look, I can assure you.

The lovely hostesses. Thanks ladies for a very memorable baby shower!

Introducing High Gloss

2011-02-01T18:49:00.006-06:00

I'm so excited that the premier issue of High Gloss, the latest web magazine to hit the virtual newsstands, has arrived. The brainchild of fellow Houstonian blogger Paloma Contreras (of La Dolce Vita), High Gloss is all about interior design, style, fashion and entertaining. HG promises to deliver high style combined with a fresh, stylish (and thankfully, colorful!) perspective that I honestly haven't seen in its competitors (though let's face it, there's always room for another good decor magazine, isn't there?).

Of course, as a contributor for this first issue, I say all this with a wee bit of bias. You can check out my small contribution as the copy writer of the "Modern Makeover" article, which features a truly gorgeous Houston home designed by local favorite Sally Wheat. The home is truly drool-worthy and I've been dying to share it with y'all.

Of course I'm not going to go and spoil all the surprises now that the issue is up -- you're going to have to go check it out for yourself. I did, however, want to give you a little sneak peek of the living room, with its more traditional bones, modern furnishings and pops of bold color in the accessories. It's chic, but also incredibly livable.

You can also see me on the list of contributors on page 10. Gotta love how I'm astride the virtual fold, right? In any case, I couldn't be happier for Paloma and her fellow editors at the reception the magazine has been receiving. Congratulations, ladies, on a job very well done! And Paloma -- I'm here whenever you need me!

How to have a Stylish Pregnancy

2011-01-31T06:30:00.003-06:00

I've picked up a few tips and tricks for navigating pregnancy as stylishly as possible over the past 8 months or so and I thought I'd share some of them with you today. Fortunately, there are now plenty of maternity clothes options on the market today so you have no excuse not to look your usual cute self (especially since now you'll have that pregnancy glow to go along with your gorgeous bump).

1. Pants/Jeans. Hands down I'd say Gap is the winner in this category for both style and price. Sure, you can throw down some serious cash for designer maternity denim (much of which is pretty useless once you get into the third trimester anyway as they're often cut too low and with too little support for late term pregnancy), but I honestly don't think any of the designer jeans I tried on compared to Gap's "Always Skinny" maternity jeans, which I've been living in since Thanksgiving. Similarly, Gap's perfect trousers have become my work week staple and are (blessedly) wash and wear.

2. Basic Tops. Basic tees and tank tops are essential during pregnancy. You can wear them alone, under open jackets and cardigans, or layer them under shorter (non-maternity) tops for more coverage. While not inexpensive, Isabella & Oliver's scoopneck ruched tees are lifesavers for me. They're comfortable, long enough (without running the risk of looking like a tunic -- a problem that seems to plague much maternity wear, even for this 6' tall gal), flattering and I wear them constantly. For tank tops, I actually prefer Classiques Entier's camisoles, which come in an array of colors and, while not technically maternity wear, are stretchy enough to look good from the beginning of pregnancy to the end. Even better, you can wear postpartum without feeling like you're still stuck in your maternity clothes.

3. Open Cardigans. Fortunately, open front cardigans are a big trend right now and can be found in abundance at all price points. I'm a big fan of Nordstroms' in-house brand Caslon for inexpensive cardigans in fun colors. Again, these have the added benefit of being wearable postpartum as well.

4. Comfortable Flats. Comfortable shoes are essential. I had to temporarily retire my heels a few months ago once my balance started to become affected by my bump. At first I was worried that my feet would grow so I avoided investing in well-made, comfortable flats. Big mistake. Buying a couple of cute, well designed flats will not only perk up a basic black maternity wardrobe, but it will keep your feet (and therefore your legs and back) happy. For my money, you can't get better than Gentle Souls. Just don't go buying a whole new shoe wardrobe until you're well past postpartum and are sure your feet have permanently spread (or not).

5. Proper Undergarments. Let's talk lingerie for a moment, ladies. The first new clothing you'll need to buy for your pregnancy are a few new bras. Make sure they've got plenty of support (I made sure mine had that third hook-and-eye closure and larger, more supportive straps). I would suggest not buying nursing bras immediately as you can never be sure what size you'll need by the time the baby arrives. My other suggestion is to get yourself a few Spanx maternity shaper and/or tights. Not only do they smooth you out, but they provide invaluable belly support as you grow. As for maternity underwear? Completely unnecessary unless you prefer high-waisted granny panties. I've had no trouble wearing my usual boyshorts/bikini underwear throughout pregnancy.

6. Some Fun Stuff. So now you've got the basics down, but fashion is also supposed to be about having some fun, right? For more playful maternity tops and cute dresses, I'd recommend the brands Olian, Maternity America and Moody Mamas. I've found they all fit well and easily transition from the second to third trimester. [Note: it's unlikely you'll need maternity clothes during your first trimester and, if you're taller or it's your first child, during much of the second either. So, if you're newly pregnant, don't rush out and buy a bunch of stuff just yet!] These brands regularly go on sale at Nordstrom and even on Gilt Group and Ideeli, so keep your eyes peeled for bargains. Still though, you really won't need more than a couple of cute maternity tops and dresses.

7. Accessories. Remember, jewelry and purses are one size fits all (well, except for rings of course!). Invest accordingly. Statement-making necklaces and earrings keep the attention up at your beautiful, glowing face and your enhanced decolletage.

So what about you? Do you have any tips and tricks for staying fashionable (and, of course, comfortable) during pregnancy?

Nursery Sneak Peek

2011-01-27T21:54:00.002-06:00

The nursery is almost done! While the big reveal will have to wait until next week as I put the final touches on the room over the weekend, I thought I'd whet your appetite with a sneak peek of the window seat, complete with cushions and my DIY pillows and pelmet box (more on both next week).

In other baby news, my shower is this weekend and I'm really looking forward to catching up with my favorite girlfriends, several of whom are coming down from Dallas for the event. Happy weekend!

Object of Desire

2011-01-25T19:45:00.002-06:00

I'm totally in love with this ottoman/stool (dubbed a chakki by Serena & Lily). Available in two finishes (white and a dark walnut) and 12 fabrics (including some fantastic prints), it's a truly versatile piece that would work in a bedroom, living room or den. Even better? The cushion is slip covered for easy washing; perfect if you've got small children or pets. The one downside? It's on the pricier side at $450. That said though, it could really make a room.

Black Walls: A Lasting Trend?

2011-01-21T19:05:00.001-06:00

Kelley Interior Design

More than a decade ago, my cousin painted her small living room black. At the time, I was skeptical, but now it's perfectly clear that she was truly ahead of her time; indeed, in retrospect, those black walls with her black and white toile sofa was super chic).

In any case, black walls have been a growing trend in the design world for several years now and they don't appear to be going anywhere in 2011. I've been a bit slow in embracing this trend (despite my love of darker wall colors like plum, navy and peacock blue), but I can say now that I've fully come around. While I'm not sure how and if I'll work it into my home, I do enjoy coveting some of the amazing rooms that designers have created featuring black walls.

The large bedroom above is an absolute favorite of mine. What I find particularly striking is how light the room feels, despite the dark walls. A good tip for those looking to test out black walls but scared of making a room too dark: keep your ceiling, trim and your floors light. The accents of red in the room, inspired by the black grounded shell motif fabric used throughout the space keep the room from being too monochromatic. Much as I love black and white, I find a total lack of an accent color to be too hard to live with.

Windsor Smith

Black walls really highlight the detailed molding in this small office. The graphic effect is mimicked in the iron windows and wrought iron lantern. I particularly love how Windsor painted the ceiling in a glossy pale blue. It adds a touch of lightness to the space. Oh yeah, and how awesome is that flame stitch office chair?

Atlanta Decorator's Show House

Black is an obvious choice for a study, library or den, where a cozier, darker environment is a welcome respite from a day's worth of work and chores.

Sally Steponkus

If you want the graphic punch but are a bit afraid of feeling closed in, try just painting one wall. I'm not generally a fan of an accent wall, but I do think it works well in a bedroom (of course, you have to put your bed against said accent wall to pull this office!). Of course, the white bed frame and side tables against the dark wall makes the most of both. Remember: it's all about contrast!

Ruthie Sommers (via domino)

Tight spaces can sometimes really benefit from the black wall treatment. It may seem counter intuitive but dark walls can really create a feeling of more space as they recede in the background -- and can highlight other great features like a fun turquoise door or high ceilings.

Sherrill Canet

This dining room is an all-time favorite of mine. The black background of this gorgeous wallpaper modernizes classic Chinoiserie and the silver ceiling generate some serious drama. The more casual dining table and chairs keeps the room from feeling too stuffy. To paraphrase Mary Poppins: it's practically perfect in every way.

Image from Marie Claire Maison

A black bathroom, like a black kitchen, is a fun deviation from the standard white -- and I'd argue it's just as classic. Of course a black clawfoot tub is just the icing on the cake. One thing I don't like about this room though: those floors. That shade of green reminds me of the green marble that was oh so popular in the '80s. Yuck.

Jenna Lyons - Domino

Somehow, I feel like the Jenna Lyons spread in domino a few years ago was a major catalyst for the black wall craze that's been raging ever since. I'll admit that the black cast iron tub paired with the brass fixtures and herringbone wood floor still leaves me breathless.

Image via Metropolitan Home

I can describe this room in 3 words: Drama, drama, drama. This image appeared on Metropolitan Home's last book Glamour: Making it Modern and I can tell you that it was just about the sole reason I picked up a copy (yes, I did judge a book by its cover!).

Anne Coyle

Black walls are a great backdrop for artwork. Like white walls, they let the art do most of the talking, but unlike white walls, you won't feel like you're sleeping in a sterile art gallery.

Stephen Shubel

While I love a white kitchen, black cabinetry is definitely growing on me. Shubel did a nice job here of keeping the look monochromatic and graphic. The flatweave rug is very chic. I also like how he selected two different countertops. The black marble on the island creates a ton of drama, but the white marble on the cabinets behind tone things down and blend in seamlessly with the creamy walls.

Image via Canadian House and Home

Another black kitchen, this time from the 2010 Canadian House and Home designer show house. The mix of materials is great and I love the crisp white beadboard ceiling. The stone floor and kitchen table and chairs add a French bistro touch that nicely balances all that black and stainless steel.

Rob Southern (via House Beautiful)

Entryways and hallways are great opportunities to experiment with black walls without really having to live with it. These walls are actually covered in vinyl wallpaper, which I'd imagine would be more cost-effective and long-lasting than lacquered walls.

Image via House Beautiful

I like how this den feels less buttoned up than most black rooms. Instead of dramatic, it feels cozy -- but it's still sophisticated (as evidenced by that fabulous KWID fabric).

Steven Gambrel

This den feels at once incredibly masculine and incredibly dramatic. The liquid leather armchairs combined with the glossy black walls (and glossy marigold yellow ceiling!) are admittedly pretty over the top. And yet Gambrel manages to balance them with smart striped curtains and a softer, more beat up leather sofa and armchair.

So what do you think, are black walls a new classic or still just a passing trend?

Making an Entrance

2011-01-18T19:06:00.000-06:00

Entryways and hallways are so often ignored in decorating, but they can be a wonderful opportunity to create some serious drama in these pass-through spaces. Even if your entry or hallway is small, I suggest going big with larger scale patterns and a few large pieces of furniture or accessories as smaller patterns and pieces can just make a small space feel even smaller and (horror of horrors!) more cluttered.

If you're looking for some inspiration or guidance, Nicky Haslam's work at a stylish London townhouse really does set the bar for stunning hallways. In the entryway (shown above), the wide set chocolate and cream stripes visually widen the narrow entry and pack a major graphic punch. I also love the single topiary -- a classic, tailored touch. A whimsical stair rail adds a touch of levity.

A round hallway is played up with a modern medallion on the floor and circular moldings on the doors.

Sure, these over scale moldings are over the top, but they add undeniable drama, especially when paired with high gloss chocolate brown walls and a contrasting slate blue ceiling.

All photographs courtesy of Nicky Haslam Design.

Obligatory Bump Shot & Giveaway Winner

2011-01-14T07:28:00.001-06:00

Okay, okay, so you guys have worn me down. I've resisted showing pregnancy photos of me up until now primarily because (a) I honestly wasn't showing until around Thanksgiving and didn't look really pregnant until Christmas so until recently there wasn't much to look at and (b) I manage to remember that I should take some photographs only at really inopportune moments...like when I've removed all my make-up, am in my pajamas and look really, well, rough.

But let the record show that here I am: 32 weeks and 3 days pregnant...and in my pajamas! I'm pleased to report that I can still see my feet (though I'll admit I have to crane my neck somewhat) and my belly button is still an innie (though it's getting shallower by the day!).

On some more baby-related business, the winner of the Binth Baby Book giveaway is...#3 -- Patch! Congratulations Patricia and many thanks to everyone who entered to win and for continuing to support this little blog.

Happy weekend!

Nursery: Quick Midweek Update

2011-01-12T21:09:00.001-06:00

I came home today to find a completely painted nursery; what a wonderful midweek pick-me-up! I'm loving how bright and clear the pale aqua is. Now all that's left is to starting loading in the room. Stay tuned!

{I should note that I didn't have a surprise visit from the painting fairies. Dave and I decided to bring in the professionals for this paint job given the fact that I'm 32 weeks pregnant and time is of the essence. I have to say though that I could get used to this; so much better than spending my weekend taping, painting and then cleaning it all up!}

In case you've missed out, you can catch up on this nursery design project by clicking HERE and HERE. Also, don't forget to enter for your chance to win a Binth Baby Book! I'll be announcing the winner Friday morning.

8 Reasons I Love this Dining Room

2011-01-11T07:28:00.002-06:00

Windsor Smith

1. The rose print linen on the walls and chairs is feminine, but the oyster and grey colorway and grid pattern keeps it from being overly sweet.

2. The more modern mix of wingback and Parsons chairs is a great counterpoint to the traditional Louis Philippe table.

3. The settee -- I love bench style seating in any dining space!

4. The silver leaf screen; because every dining room needs a touch of elegant Chinoiserie.

5. The painted tin ceiling adds character and texture without distracting from the upholstered walls.

6. The simple panel drapery mounted on a bamboo rod lends a more casual and modern air, despite the floral print walls and strong use of metallics.

7. The sisal rug takes the entire look down a notch and warms up all the gray.

8. A tight monochromatic color palette keeps all the pattern from overpowering the small space.

So what does all that add up to? One great room in my opinion! But it also showcases a new twist on classic English style, which I think we'll be seeing a lot of in 2011. Classic English decorating is marked by floral fabrics, matching prints, tin ceilings, touches of Chinoiserie, an eclectic mix of modern and antique furniture. Windsor manages to make this style feel fresh, young and a bit more undone with the addition of the sisal rug, less fussy drapery and a more monochromatic color palette.

What do you think? To see the rest of this gorgeous California home, check out the House Beautiful feature HERE.

Win a Binth Baby Book!

2011-01-07T08:00:00.000-06:00

Today I'm thrilled to announce that I'll be giving away a Binth baby book (in green -- perfect for either sex)! Original woodland illustrations lead from the day of birth through the 3rd birthday with ample room for photos, thoughts and memories. This would make a wonderful gift for the expecting or new parent.

To enter, simply leave a comment here and be sure to include your email address so I can contact you if you're selected as the winner. I'll select one winner randomly next Friday, January 14. Good luck and happy weekend!

Happy Second Anniversary, Odi et Amo!

2011-01-05T07:10:00.012-06:00

{If I could give you each a Sprinkles cupcake, I would!}

Today marks the completion of my second year as a blogger. 2010 was definitely an exciting time for this little blog as I saw my readership quadruple over the course of the year and my focus -- and my voice -- shift slowly towards the more personal (but I suppose pregnancy will do that to you).

Last year at this time, I featured a roundup of my favorite posts, all of which focused on interior design. This year, I thought I'd celebrate with a roundup my own design projects that I've documented here on the blog over the past twelve months (as well as previews for what's to come in 2011!):

February 2010

The Master Bathroom

March 2010

Sprucing Up a Credenza

March 2010

The Powder Room

April 2010

Mini-Makeovers for My Home Office

July 2010

The Family Room

December 2010
The Master Bedroom - Stay Tuned for an Update!

December 2010

The Backyard

January 2011
The Nursery - Stay Tuned for an Update!

I can honestly say that without the encouragement of my readers -- and the pressure of getting things done so I could have some blog content -- I would not have been nearly as productive in my mission of turning my new, somewhat cold, house into a home as I was (even if I didn't get it all done). While I doubt any home is ever truly "done" (and goodness, how boring would that be?!), I do feel our home reflects us and our tastes so much more than it did a year ago. Many thanks to you all for your continued support, kind words and generous spirits. I look forward to a third year of blogging, this time with baby in tow!

Gratias vobis ago!

Guest Post at La Dolce Vita

2011-01-04T07:00:00.003-06:00

Today I'm over at La Dolce Vita guest posting about my dream home. Be sure to stop by (click HERE) and say "hello" and check out my indulgent design choices for decorating my ultimate fantasy home. Thanks again Paloma for giving me the opportunity to participate in your new series!

Nursery: Progress Report

2011-01-03T07:30:00.005-06:00

Over the course of the holidays, despite plenty of company and my growing fatigue (and belly!), I did manage to get a good bit done in the nursery. When we last left off, the spare bedroom was essentially our storage room, which meant the first task was clearing it out. After several trips to Goodwill, we managed to empty the room and get cracking. Dave's big task was to remove the light and install the new fan, which has the added benefit of being on a dimmer. I like how the fixture has an old schoolhouse vibe; it's definitely the kind of piece I can use long after the crib is gone.

We've also purchased several of our "big ticket" items like the crib and the dresser (both of which are from Oeuf's Sparrow line). The dresser will double as a changing table. I had initially planned on buying a separate changing table, but decided the temporary convenience of a separate (and higher) space didn't really justify the additional cost. I also got DwellStudio's Draper rug, which ties in with the fitted stripe sheet and I really think it's going to make the room.

My big DIY for the nursery last week was making the crib skirt. I used the Alphabet Tales print from Osborne & Little's Zagazoo line. While my mom taught me the rudiments of sewing when I was younger, I'm hardly a seamstress, so I opted to go the no-sew route with some Stitch Witchery, an iron and this short DIY video courtesy of Young House Love. Sherry does a wonderful job of walking you through it, so I won't take you step by step here. Instead, I'll just throw in my quickie advice: make sure your measurements are accurate for each side before you cut (and measure the inside, not the outside, of the crib for accurate dimensions, taking into account any support slats, screws or other obstacles that may keep the skirt from laying flat).

After hemming each panel with the hem tape, I used fabric glue to secure orange grosgrain ribbon along the bottom edges and secured each panel to the crib with Velcro (the stick-on kind for the crib and the iron-on kind for the panels). While the skirt might withstand a few washings, it's certainly not for the ages -- indeed, I even had to do some impromptu (and very hackneyed) cutting once I installed the panels to get the skirt to lay flat despite the support slats behind each leg. That said though, I think it looks good and I'm happy with the results.

The nursery is connected to a Jack-and-Jill bathroom that I'm also sprucing up (in the same color scheme) in time for BB Conn's arrival. I found some adorable towels in orange and aqua off ideeli a few months ago, but I'd been having a lot of trouble finding a shower curtain that I really liked in the same colors that didn't read as too juvenile (after all, this bathroom is also connected to our guest room). And so, I decided to make my own...well, I prettied up my own in any event.

I purchased an inexpensive plain white fabric shower curtain and some grosgrain ribbon in orange and aqua. I then used fabric glue to adhere the ribbons to create a wide band across the bottom of the curtain. I actually eye balled the spacing but if you're a bit unsteady (or a perfectionist), then I'd suggest marking your distances with a washable fabric pen. While the fabric glue does a reasonable job of keeping the ribbon in place, I knew that I needed to sew down the ribbon along the edges to really get them to stay flat and hold up in a damp environment (and in the washing machine).

Under the watchful eye of my mother, I used a sewing machine to sew down the edges. I used a clear thread to avoid having to change out the thread for each color. A great tip from my mom: sew the right (or left) sides of all four ribbons in one go and then turn the curtain around and sew the other sides down. This will keep the ribbons from puckering and ensure they lay flat.

Of course, there are still a number of items to check off the list in the next 8 weeks or so before I can call this room complete. Here's the status of my to do list as of last weekend:

~~(1) Clear the room.~~
(2) Paint the walls (Benjamin Moore's Forget Me Not) and ceiling (Benjamin Moore's Icing on the Cake). [Note: I have, for once, decided to outsource the paint job to professionals; hopefully, my painter will be out in the next week or two to get this done.]

~~(3) Order the crib, dresser, glider and rug.~~
~~(4) Install the ceiling fan.~~
~~(5) Sew the crib skirt.~~
(6) Build the pelmet box for the window and upholster in the O&L fabric.

(7) Sew covers for throw pillows to go on glider and window seat.
~~(8) Order artwork and frames.~~

(9) Establish a furniture arrangement that optimizes space.
(10) Purchase/install floating shelves above the dresser for photos and diapering essentials.

(11) Arrange and hang wall art.
(12) Organize baby's closet -- wash and fold clothes, store toys and gear, etc.

I'm pleased with the progress so far, but my nesting instinct seems to have kicked into high gear here in the last week or so (perhaps something about hitting the 30 week mark?) and I'm ready to power this out quickly now. I'll keep you posted!

2011: New Year, New Life (?)

2010-12-31T20:49:00.003-06:00

2011 will mark some major milestones in my life:

March 2011: David and I will welcome our first child -- a boy.

May 2011: David will turn 30.

June 2011: I will turn 30.

September 2011: David and I will celebrate our 5th wedding anniversary.

November 2011: Marks my 5th year as a licensed attorney (unfortunately, I'll be missing my 5th year reunion in April due to above mentioned baby). Of course, that still makes me the baby of our legal department, but there is something to be said for getting past the first few, really tough years of being a young attorney.

In many ways, the dawn of the second decade of the now not-so-new millennium marks Dave's and my entrance into actual adulthood. Sure, we've technically been adults for over a decade, but I'll admit that we both indulged in the extended adolescence that our society has long allowed twenty-somethings. And we've very much enjoyed all the traveling, eating out, etc. that our disposable income and lack of kids has allowed us. Am I a bit scared at the prospect of this transition? Absolutely, but I think I'm finally ready to embrace adulthood, motherhood and this new year.

But enough of the serious stuff; have a wonderful New Year's Eve and a very Happy New Year! See y'all back next week for some updates on the nursery (I swear my absence in blogland this week is due primarily to being productive!) and more design inspiration.

Photograph courtesy of Elle Canada.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-22T10:13:00.000-06:00

Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I'm off for the next few days enjoying some quality time with the family and some much needed R&R. I'll be back next week though with plenty of updates on the nursery (including some DIYs) as I scurry to get the room in shape before returning to work in January.

Love,

Averill

P.S. - The winner of the Bold & Noble Noah's Ark print is #19 -- Mary! Thanks to everyone who entered and congratulations, Mary! I'll be in touch about shipment later today.

*Holiday card designed by my friend Natalie, owner of the lovely stationery boutique Sicily Eason.*

I love Ruby Love's Modern Baby Books

2010-12-20T13:19:00.002-06:00

I'll admit that I'm a big fan of documenting everything (I'm a lawyer, after all!) and I cherish the baby books my mother and grandmother made for me. But a lot of the books on the market today just strike me as a bit too cheesy, a bit too...well, babyish. Cue a random (but most welcome email) from my blogging buddy Laura over at JourneyChic a few weeks ago recommending Etsy seller Ruby Love's gorgeous baby books. Needless to say, I ordered one immediately and I love it so much I just had to pass the recommendation on to y'all. There are, of course, a lot of great baby books available on the market today, but here are a few reasons that I think Ruby Love's makes the top of my list:

1. There's a wide assortment of styles/colors to choose from -- and plenty of not-so-cutesy options that may appeal to your more sophisticated side. [By the way, if you're interested, I happened to select the "Ryland" option for myself.] Because let's face it, you're going to have to live with plenty of cartoons, and kid stuff for the next, oh, decade, so I say pick what you like now before your baby forms his or her own opinion.

2. The books come as 3-ring albums, which means you can customize, add or subtract pages to your heart's content. I love that I'm not constricted by stupid prompts or left staring at blank pages because I didn't get around to documenting Baby Conn's first sneeze (just toss that page!). This leads me to reason #3...

{Baby Book Holiday Pack}

3. While the standard album comes with plenty of great prompts (personal favorite includes "This Day in History", which reminds me of my Grandma saving the major headlines of the year of my birth -- something I will always treasure) and lots of blank pages for your photographs, there are loads of supplemental pages you can purchase to beef up your album and even extend it into your child's toddle hood (assuming, of course, you haven't completely abandoned documenting your child's every move out of to sheer exhaustion).

If, however, none of Ruby Love's albums strike your fancy but you're still looking for something modern and fun, I'd suggest checking out my two runners up: Baby's First Book over at Rag & Bone and the Binth Baby Book. Any of these would make a wonderful holiday or shower gift for an expectant or new mom.

Win a Bold & Noble Screen Print!

2010-12-17T07:49:00.008-06:00

So a few weeks ago I ordered the Noah's Ark print in turquoise from English design collective Bold & Noble for the nursery. Unfortunately, they initially sent me the print in poppy red -- a great color, but definitely not what I ordered. Quick to make amends, however, B&N shipped me the turquoise version and offered to let me keep the red version for myself.

Well, of course the first thing I thought of was that I should give it away to one of my readers -- tis the season, after all! And so, if you'd like this gorgeous, hand pulled print for yourself, all you need do is leave a comment to this post (Note: please include your email address). A random winner will be selected on Wednesday, December 22. Good luck and happy weekend!

The Backyard is (Finally) Finished!

2010-12-16T08:36:00.017-06:00

Back in August I posted some pictures showing off some preliminary work we'd done to our backyard. Well, four months later I am thrilled to report that we've finally finished landscaping and that I couldn't be happier with the finished results. While we spent a huge chunk of my 2010 bonus on the yard, both Dave and I believe that we've managed to create a little something out of the ordinary, something that would set our home apart from our neighbors, and somewhere that we'd be happy to spend our spare time given that Baby Boy Conn's arrival will almost certainly mean an end to our big trips (at least for now). In short, I think it was worth the money...and the wait.

Probably the single biggest change to the yard was the extension of the patio and the construction of the pergola. We decided to go with the same brick as the house and the same paint as the trim for a seamless look and I must say that the finished product looks like it came with the house.

Our landscaper Kevin insisted that we must have pots (and big ones!) for annuals and some small citrus. Dave was hesitant initially (both because of cost and an inexplicable aversion to pots) but we found some simple, inexpensive gray pots at a local garden center that blended perfectly with the crushed granite beds and that we're both happy with. I must say that these may be my single favorite element in the design as they add both height and color around the patio.

The side entrance to the backyard has been transformed from ho-hum to something quite lovely. Note the Meyer Lemon tree on the right. I can't wait for those babies to ripen so I can use them to make some lemon pistachio cookies for the holidays! We still need to add a few pavers to the pathway (and let the grass grow back in), but come spring when the hydrangea bloom this corner of the yard will be almost magical.

We decided to erect a few screens to block the view of our red brick fence (which isn't awful, of course, but it does rather clash with the brick on our house). I love the circle motif on the screens, which echo the circular fire pit and break up all the straight lines of the fences. Vegetation is a mix of tropicals (an orchid tree, hibiscus), citrus (several orange varietals), native Texas plants, and more traditional garden plants (camilas, roses, etc.).

Absolutely love the vivid silver of the Texas sage, especially against the darker green of the rose bushes. Can you see the large planters behind the screens? They've been seeded with wildflowers and I'm looking forward to seeing what pops up this spring.

The patio extension and fire pit are flanked by six crepe myrtles, which come spring will be in full bloom through most of the summer. We've planted a few wisteria at the base of the pergola. Kevin promises that they'll quickly grow up and along the pergola, creating a wonderful canopy of violet and deep green. I love the romantic quality of wisteria -- there's something very Southern about it -- and I look forward to spending some quiet afternoons sitting outside, sipping lemonade and playing with the baby.

Ah the fire pit: Dave's big "want" that I'll admit I was a bit dubious of at first. I insisted we put it away from the house and Kevin came up with a great solution for making it blend in perfectly with the rest of the design. The low wall behind it provides excellent seating for toasting marshmallows or just sipping a beer or two. We actually built a fire on Sunday for the first time and had a lovely time sitting outside in the chilly weather enjoying the smell of burning wood (it's rather intoxicating, no?) and watching the fire. I'm having family over for Christmas Day dinner and I'm hopeful that the weather will cooperate so we can build another fire and move the party outdoors.

If you live in the greater-Houston area and your yard is in need of some serious sprucing up, I'd highly recommend Kevin Boyd (of Nature's Realm) for any sort of landscaping or hardscaping needs. He was by far the most creative landscaper we spoke with and his ideas really helped make our less-than-defined vision a reality.

Virtual Vacation: Great Smoky Mountains

2010-12-15T09:22:00.004-06:00

Dave and I have elected to spend our Christmas vacation at home again this year, and while I welcome the opportunity to indulge in a bit of a "staycation," I can't help but wish we were sitting around a slightly more festive environment -- like, say, a cozy cabin nestled in the mountains.

Now I'll be the first to admit that I am not, by any stretch of the imagination, a girl who likes to "rough it". To pull a few lines from Troop Beverly Hills (a favorite movie of mine as a kid) [In reference to the Troop "camping out" at the Beverly Hills Hotel]:

Velda: "Is this what you call roughing it?"

Phyllis: "One bathroom for nine people? Yes."

And so, while I may be a fan of the Great Outdoors, I've always preferred to spend my nights in slightly more luxurious surroundings -- and I wouldn't normally consider cabins as qualifying. But in the talented hands of Atlanta designer Suzanne Kasler, this cozy English-style cabin (dubbed Toad Hall) nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains in Tennessee manages to be both rustic and luxe. It also happens to be the kind of place I'd love to escape to for the holidays: the perfect spot to cozy up by a big wood burning fire with the hubby, pup and a good book.

I love the warmth that the tapestry, rug and heavy curtains bring to the exposed wood walls and ceiling. The overall feeling is to reminiscent of an English country house, where the cold wood and stone walls and floors are covered with heavy fabrics and tapestries to insulate against the harsh British weather.

Decorating Tip #476: A beautiful Chinoiserie screen works anywhere, even in a log cabin. Perhaps what I love most about this cabin is that there's nary a moose head or stuffed pheasant in sight. Just goes to show you that there's no reason to slavishly adhere to "hunting lodge style" if you want to create a rustic, cabin mood.

Should you decide to invite a large group over to your winter hideaway, there's plenty of space for entertaining in the dining room. Anchoring the large table with two wingback chairs in a buttery yellow brings in a more modern touch, a nice counterbalance to the traditional dining set, candelabra and curtains. While much of the furniture and the walls are dark, plenty of light streams in from the french doors.

I'm fairly certain I'd be parked in front of this fire for much of the day, watching the snow fall outside the window while enjoying the crackle of the fire. Divine.

I love how the kitchen is both rustic and modern. The cabinetry has the look of fine furniture and the lack of upper cabinets gives the kitchen a more refined look that you might find in a dining room. Indeed, the lower cabinets resemble a buffet that just happens to have a gorgeous oven in the center of it.

Of course the master bedroom has a large stone fireplace -- all the better to snuggle up by on a cold winter's night. I love the height of the room as well, but the canopy bed keeps the feel cozy rather than cavernous. The juxtaposition of the floral fabric and the rustic walls and fireplace makes this room perfectly suited for both men and women.

This beautiful canopied bed has me simply dying to dive in it head first. Nothing like a big, fluffy duvet and a roaring fire for sleeping in over the holidays. My only question: where are the side tables and bedside lamps?! As an avid reader in bed, I'm at something of a loss to explain their absence (especially since there's clearly room around the bed for small tables).

Of course though, like any good cabin worth its salt, it's the view outdoors that's the most compelling, the most awe-inspiring. This time of year you might need a space heater and a few blankets to make this porch comfortable, but I'm sure the views across the lake would be well worth it.

Who doesn't love sitting on a rocker on the front porch chewing the fat late into the night?

The "Writer's Cottage", another guest house, is nestled between the garden and the woods beyond. I'd imagine it's exactly the sort of place a writer might go looking for some inspiration.

One of the guest houses, adorably dubbed "Tadpole Cottage".

All photographs courtesy of Suzanne Kasler and Architectural Digest.

Advice for New Moms: Haven & Home

2010-12-14T07:38:00.001-06:00

Today marks the final installment of the Advice for New Moms guest post series and I'd like to thank all the wonderful bloggers who contributed to the series and made it so informative (not to mention entertaining). We're finishing up strong today with Marianne Strong (sorry for the bad pun!) from Haven & Home and Marianne Strong Interiors. While Marianne is not yet a mother herself, she's had plenty of practice setting up both beautiful and functional nurseries for her many clients and she's graciously offered to share some of her wisdom here today.

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Hi Odi et Amo readers, I am so happy to here today! Since we do not have children yet I am not sure how much help I can be but I will give it a try. I may not have a little one yet but I do know a thing or two about a nurseries. Right now I am currently working on my 12th, 13th and 14th future baby rooms for clients. Nurseries are actually one of my favorite spaces to design, I love the idea of creating a little child's first space. These are tips I would give any soon-to-be Mom:

1. Get the big pieces taken care of first then worry about the rest. Gliders generally take anywhere from 6-12 weeks to come in so I usually keep them high on the priority list. I wish I could give you a source for inexpensive gliders that have GREAT fabric but I can't. All the fabulous gliders I have found come with a hefty price tag. So, choose a neutral fabric and add a pillow or throw for looks.

I also like to pick the crib early in the process. It can set the tone of the room and it gets the future parents excited when it is set up.

2. Just say no to changing tables. Any piece can be a changing table, look for something that you will use down the road. I personally love chests. I already know when we have kids that I will use this wood and metal potting table I found for a changing table. Don't be afraid to use items in unconventional ways.

3. Don't forget the ceiling. I don't think I have done a single nursery with a plain ceiling. It is an easy way to add visual interest. Also pay attention to lighting, it is a great excuse to use something fun and whimsical.

4. Throw in a bookcase if possible. You will receive items you want to display and I think every child's room should include books....especially by Eric Carle.

5. Don't neglect the walls. There are so many cute things out there for wall decor it can be mind boggling. Etsy is a great place to start. Another thing I have done over and over and never get sick of is framing several pages from a favorite book. Sometimes frames can get lost on a wall when floating solo. A gallery wall looks clean but still adds color.

6. Don't stress too much. It is likely your baby won't even be in his/her room for the first few weeks. Just make sure you feel at home in your babies nursery and they will too.

I hope this helped some. Congratulations to all the expectant mothers out there. I am blown away every time I see a baby by what a miracle the whole process really is. Enjoy this time in your/their life, from what I hear it flies by.

All images Marianne Strong Interiors.

2011 Color of the Year: Honeysuckle

2010-12-10T15:21:00.000-06:00

The powers that be over at Pantone have dubbed "Honeysuckle", a vibrant pink hue with a yellow undertone, the color for 2011. While I'd describe the color as more pink lemonade than honeysuckle (after all, a honeysuckle flower is yellow!), I do like the vibrant feminine energy the color conveys. And I have to say, given the popularity of this more adultified pink (actually, pink in general) on last fall's runways, I'm not particularly surprised. But, while it may be easy to infuse your wardrobe with a bit of on-trend pink this coming Spring, refreshing your home for 2011 may prove a bit trickier -- especially if you happen to live with a man.

This is not to say that I'm an advocate of updating your decor as often as you update your wardrobe. Not only would that be grossly wasteful (not to mention expensive), but it's also completely unnecessary given interior design's tendency to hold on to trends longer than fashion. To whit, both 2009's color of the year (mimosa) and 2010's color of the year (turquoise) are still tremendously popular colors for the home. But let's suppose you want to stay a bit ahead of the curve -- or you happen to love this color as much as I do. Then how should the reasoned decorista go about bringing a little honeysuckle into her life?

Suzanne Kasler

Of course, honeysuckle is the ideal wall color in a little girl's room. It's bright and pretty, but less sugary sweet than a purer bubblegum pink. I also like the idea of painting a guest room or guest bath in the color. Pinks and reds are exceptionally flattering to skin tone (just ask my sorority, which used red tents in our initiation ceremony rather than blue for precisely that reason!) and the color would look great in just about any light. While you can always have your local paint store color match a Pantone swatch, both Benjamin Moore's Florida Pink and Gypsy Rose are good options.

Massucco Warner Miller

If you're looking to take the color out into the main areas of your house, I'd strongly suggest doing so with fabrics and/or accessories. When paired against neutral camels and khakis, honeysuckle takes on a wonderful sophistication that feels more sophisticated and gender neutral. Note how the ladies at Massucco Warner Miller kept this sitting room relatively free of pattern (save for a few fabulous throw pillows), allowing the color to take center stage. If you're going to do a pattern in this hue, I'd urge you to consider subtle tone-on-tones or, if you want to go bolder, geometrics and stripes, to counteract the femininity of the color. In short: no chintzes or toiles, unless you want your house to look like the Junior League!

Jeffers Design Group

The warmth of honeysuckle is the perfect compliment to warm wood tones and gilt. The overall effect here is incredibly rich and the neutral walls keep the color from feeling overwhelming. Can I also add how fabulous I think the cherry blossom runner on the stairwell is?

Finally, Honeysuckle works well as an accent color in small doses -- that one shot of bold, rich color that can absolutely make or break a room. Paired with a soft, buttery yellow or a sage green, the tone reads as very preppy and traditional. If you're looking for more modern pairings, I'd go for cooler tones of gray. For high drama, try metallics or a rich navy.

I thought I'd do some of the heavy lifting for you and pick out a few of my favorite home accessories in "the" color of 2011:

Clockwise, from top left: (1) Alpaca Throw in Melon from Serena & Lily ($148); (2) Dark Walnut Chakki upholstered in Coral Diamond from Serena & Lily ($450); (3) Charlotte Mirror from Clayton Gray Home ($950); (4) Tini Table IV in Eros Pink from Oomph ($495); (5) Pair of Button Tufted Chairs from Pieces (sold); (6) Artichoke Lamp in Stray Dog Pink from Stray Dog Designs ($625); (7) Tripoli Quilt and Shams from John Robshaw ($80-$435); (8) Ceramic Melon Knobs from Anthropologie ($8/each); (9) Pink Avenida Maze Pillows from Trina Turk ($148); (10) Translucent Venus Pendant in Pink from The Well Appointed Home ($318); (11) Kelly Two Door Lacquered Cabinet from The Well Appointed Home ($5500); and (12) Quadra Table Lamp from Weego Home ($425).

Master Bedroom Design: Progress Report

2010-12-07T20:56:00.000-06:00

It's been a few months now since I first posted about my plans for our master bedroom, but I promise that I didn't forget about it, despite my baby haze. In fact, real progress has been made towards achieving my initial vision and I'm excited to share the changes the room has undergone in recent weeks.

I've swapped out our queen size bed with a larger king. I selected a modern, black version of a Shaker pencil post bed from Ethan Allen to help fill up some of the vertical space in the room. I had initially considered getting the canopied version of this bed and leaving the canopy frame bare, but ultimately decided to go with the four-poster (though it can always be converted to a canopy later fairly inexpensively).

My almost all-white bedding also got traded out with far more colorful peacock dove bedding from DwellStudio. For me, this is the change that really makes the room...well, make sense. The print brings out the blue-gray of the walls, the metallic slate gray of the ceiling and even the black of the bed frame. The print's modern take on Chinoiserie helps tie in the existing Japanese woodblock art above the bed. In short, the bedding looks like I picked it out first (rather than vice versa, which I'll admit was a bit ass backward of me but no matter...) and based the entire room around it.

The other major change in this space is that I replaced the too small, matchy-matchy side tables with a larger side table and long dresser. Initially, I had planned on going with all-mirrored options, but ultimately selected these white and mirrored babies from ZGallerie's Concerto line for two big reasons: (a) I am way too type-A to not let smudged mirrors get to me -- and, let's face it, they'd inevitably get smudged, cracked, etc. with a new puppy and a baby on the way; and (b) these pieces were way, way cheaper than the ones I had initially chosen. As an added bonus, I got them in just a few short weeks instead of the typically 8-12 week lag of more expensive furniture. I was a bit concerned about quality given the relatively low price and the fact that I'd never purchased ZGallerie furniture before, but I'm happy to report that these are both very solid, well built pieces that look far more expensive than they actually were.

So what's left? Well, I still need to trade in my drab, too small 5 x 8' rug for a larger, punchier 6 x 9'. I'll still mulling over whether or not I am going to go for the Madeline Weinrib Greek key, which means I should probably keep looking to find something I love even more. I'm also in desperate need for large-scale art or a screen (or something!) for the wall across from the bed. Replacing the sleigh bed freed up more floor space as this four-poster sits tightly against the wall, so I'll also be looking for a deep bench or maybe even a small sofa for the foot of the bed. Finally, fixed drapery panels on either side of the windows will add the finishing touch to the space. Of course, I'll keep you posted, but I can't guarantee much more progress before Baby Boy Conn's arrival in early March!

Advice for New Moms: Pewter + Sage

2010-12-07T10:25:00.000-06:00

I'm pleased to welcome Sarah of the blog Pewter + Sage as this week's guest blogger in the Advice for New Moms guest post series. Sarah is a new mom herself, having just had her sweet baby girl Maura just three short months ago. In addition to her new role as mommy, Sarah is also the owner of her own business, where she makes beautiful custom stationery for weddings and just about anything else you could think of. If you haven't checked out Maura's birth announcement yet, be sure to do so here; it's absolutely gorgeous.

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Hi! Odi et Amo is one of my favorite stops on my daily blog list, so I’m super excited and honored to be included in this Advice for New Mom series. Congratulations again to Averill and Dave! Can’t wait to meet your little guy and see his awesome nursery. I’ve only been a mom for 3 months now, our little girl Maura just turned 12 weeks on Friday! Sometimes my husband and I still look at her and think “We have a baby?!” It is an amazing feeling, a crazy ride, a tremendous blessing. My “advice” is a bit random, just some things I’ve been jotting down ever since Averill asked me if I’d like to participate. Hope it helps!

{Maura's Nursery}

If you get a chance before you give birth, go out and purchase some cute thank you notes. Maybe even take some time and put your return address and stamps on them. Trust me, you will need these once your little one arrives! I don’t think we will have to buy Maura any clothes until she is like 2 years old! Our family and friends and neighbors have been so generous and I have been writing a lot of thank you notes. You will not have much free time taking care of a newborn and anything like this that you can have done ahead of time will be a huge relief. On this same note, if you plan on sending out birth announcements, try and get as much done on those as you can too while still pregnant. Oh, and complete the nursery as much as you can. The two additional projects I decided to do in her room after she was born are still unfinished!!

I highly recommend setting up a changing and sleeping spot for the baby downstairs (if you have a 2 story home), this makes things much easier during the day. We have a hand-me down Pack ‘N Play from our friends in the living room where Maura loves to take naps. As terrible as it sounds, her downstairs changing spot is the kitchen table! And it turns out this is one of her favorite places to be, she is so happy just laying there smiling and playing with us. So, go with what works for you. You will figure out what that is as you go.

Keep all your receipts. Both for any gifts you are given (if they are smart enough to include a gift receipt) and for anything you buy for the baby yourself. A lot of stuff I thought we would want or need (even when we closed out our Babies R Us registry after she was born) I have not ended up using. This way I can take them back and put that money towards other things…like diapers!

If you are like us and want to/plan on having more kids, try to get your big ticket items (like the car seat, stroller, high chair, swing, bouncy seat, play mat) in neutral colors. This way you don’t have to get another version of everything if you are blessed with both genders.

If you are going to try breastfeeding, I highly recommend nursing tanks. I have four Gilligan and O’Malley nursing tank tops (2 white, 1 black and 1 gray) that I got at Target for $16.99. I wear one literally every day. With a cardigan (or zip up hoodie). Cardigans are my other best friend.

I know everyone has a different philosophy on sleeping but here’s my two cents. Try and get your little one to sleep in their crib at night as early as possible. Both you and the baby will get a better sleep. We planned on having Maura sleep in the new Pack ‘N Play we registered for in our room for the first few months. However, she didn’t really go for it. Figures, she likes the hand-me down one we have downstairs but not the new one we have upstairs! So, in desperation one night, we put her in the crib. And she slept fine! We could still hear her on the audio monitor (a must have) and I could still get to her quickly for the night feedings. We sleep better because we are not sitting up to peer at her and see if she is still breathing every 5 minutes and I think she sleeps better because our tossing and turning doesn’t wake her up either. Sleep is a rare commodity in the beginning, so try and get as much as you can! And trust me, it will get better.

It’s all about attitude. I learned this the hard way. Maura had colic for a few weeks (thankfully it has passed now) and it was really tough. At times I broke down and cried in her room in the middle of the night when she would not go to sleep and all I could do was count down the minutes of sleep I was losing because each second that ticked away brought me closer to the next time I would have to be awake to feed her. However, once we took her to pediatrician and she told us it was probably colic, it was much easier to deal with the crying and the sleepless nights and frustrating feelings. Once I looked at the situation differently, it was easier to face. I mean, here was this little thing, uncomfortable and not able to help herself. Completely dependent on me. For everything. The poor little baby. I’m her mom, this is what I do. This is why I’m here. So I changed the way I was looking at things. And everything got better.

Make the most of this time. Three months have gone by so quickly, I can’t believe it! I mean, this time last year I wasn’t even pregnant yet (though we were working hard at it!) and now I have a daughter! Amazing. Take lots of photos, record video, keep a journal of your baby’s milestones. Just spend time together. This is such a special time in your life, enjoy it.

If no one minds, I’d like to also offer the following “advice” for labor and delivery as this was one of the main things that I stressed out about and feared during my pregnancy:

-Go in with an open mind. (Whether you plan on delivering naturally or have decided to go with the drugs, whatever your birth plan, even if you don’t have one – stay open-minded, try to go with the flow and don’t worry if things don’t go exactly as you had envisioned. You might not react the way you thought you would to the pain, you might experience symptoms you didn’t think you would, you might be more of a warrior than you gave yourself credit for. Just do what’s best for you and your baby.)

-Expect the unexpected.

-Try to make the most of your hospital stay. Even though we looked forward to going home as a new family, I actually really enjoyed the 2 days and 3 nights we spent in the hospital after Maura was born. The nurses were so helpful; ask them as many questions as you want (they know what they are doing, we didn’t!!) Our hospital offered classes we could attend and videos we could watch; I learned a lot. We did make use of the nursery at night. I would highly suggest this, even though it’s a bit heart wrenching to see your new little one wheeled away in the bassinet for a few hours. It helps for you to get some sleep; you’ll be a better parent if you’re well rested. Even though I was exclusively breastfeeding, they had Maura on what they called an “Out on Demand” schedule at night – whenever she woke up crying and hungry they just wheeled her back to our room. I would feed and burp her and then I could call the nurse to come back and get her when we were done.

-As funny as it sounds, take as much stuff back with you from the hospital as you can!!! The large stretchy underwear they give you to wear is actually a godsend; try to steal a few pairs! Our nurses were super nice about giving us stuff to take home, they loaded us up with bag after bag of Vaseline, baby bath soap, pacifiers, diapers, pads, even formula just in case we wanted to try it. Don’t be ashamed –those first few days at home are hectic and it helps if you are not running out to Target or CVS at the last minute for something you might need.

Thanks for having me! Congratulations again to Averill and any of you out there who are also expecting!

Meet Matilda!

2010-12-03T08:01:00.016-06:00

I'd like to introduce you to the newest member of our family: Matilda, a 3.5 month old miniature dachshund!

After the loss of our dear Olivia in October, Dave and I thought long and hard about whether or not we wanted another dog, especially since we're expecting a baby in just a few short months. Ultimately, however, we decided that, if we did want another dog, it was "now or never," as the chaos that accompanies a newborn would inevitably delay getting another dog for several years and that the sooner we could get another dog and get her trained prior to the baby's arrival, the better. Yes, we've been warned that getting another dog (especially a puppy) would only add to our stress levels, but in truth we both felt like our house just wasn't complete without a canine companion and that, like children, the joy of having a dog far outweighs the negatives.

So we've brought home Matilda. While the process of house breaking her has been some serious work (and yes, both Dave and I have lost some sleep), we're well on our way to having a charming, well-trained pup by the time of Baby Boy Conn's arrival in early March. And, perhaps more importantly, she's done so much to keep our minds off of the loss of Olivia. It's been such a blessing to have a lovable, affectionate dog to come home to again. Of course, I'll always miss Olivia, always wish that she had been able to live to a ripe old age, but Matilda has already taught me that there's room in my heart for more than one dog.

P.S. - Stay turned next week for updates on both the status of the backyard makeover and the master bedroom makeover! A ton of progress has been made that I can't wait to share with y'all. In the meantime, happy weekend!

Advice for New Moms: JourneyChic

2010-12-02T07:16:00.045-06:00

Back again with yet another fantastic guest post in the Advice for New Moms series. Today I'm thrilled to have Laura of JourneyChic, who welcomed her first son into the world back in June...wow, I can't believe how time flies! I feel like I was just reading about her being pregnant! In any case, Laura has (unsurprisingly) some incredibly smart thoughts on decking out the nursery, delivery and parenting generally.

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As a new mom of a 4.5 month old son, I've really enjoyed reading all of the other guest posts in this series because I'm still figuring out what the heck to do with my getting-bigger-every-day bundle of love. It's hard to believe there was a time when I didn't think I ever wanted kids! Averill, I'm so happy for you! Here are some words of wisdom and products that we can't live without in our home.

All That Stuff!

For such small people, babies sure do require a lot of things - but probably not as much as you think. Before starting a registry I sent an email to all of my mom friends asking about the products they can't live without as well as the ones that were a total waste of money. As you think about what to buy for your baby, consider this:

Will it only be useful for this child, or will it last long enough to keep for future babies? Keep this in mind when buying furniture and other pricier items. Keep these pieces gender-neutral so you can re-purpose them for baby #2.

Does it fit your house? If you are fortunate to have a large home, or at least one with a finished basement, this isn't an issue. Since we don't, we looked for space-saving toys like this frog jumper, a high chair that attaches to one of our kitchen chairs, and a changing pad that fits on top of the nursery's dresser.

Does it fit YOU? Averill addressed this issue last week when she talked about a changing table that was comfortable for her tall height. At 5'1", I have the opposite problem. I also have a bad back, so when looking for baby carriers, I focused on those that had lumbar support. Even the infant car seat had to be light enough for me to carry (a moot point now, since my baby's so heavy already that I can't carry him in his seat anymore!).

Are you buying this because the baby will like it, or because you like it? Newborns love things that are high-contrast: black/white, yellow/red, etc.. Neutral colors that look good in your living room may not be the most entertaining things for your child. I made this mistake with our bouncer (in the picture). Although it does the job very well, it's pretty boring for our boy.

What we bought and love:

Baby Einstein Around The World Play Gym: My son has loved this from the moment we put him on it when he was just a few weeks old. The globe at the top of the arches lights up and plays music, and he loves staring at it. I hung additional toys using plastic links so he can have even more things to grab, although the variety of toys in this gym is much better than others I've seen. This thing allows me to eat breakfast on the weekends.

Winkel: This toy has a small rattle in the middle, but mostly my son loves to grab all the loops, which are small enough for his hands to easily wrap around. It's one of the first toys that he held onto, and now when he sees it his legs start kicking!

Freddie The Firefly: This colorful bug has crinkly wings that my kiddo loves to grab.

Sassy MOD Pop Bouncer (aka "the monkey seat"): Although this bouncer is a bit too bland to offer lots of good times for baby, it allowed me to take showers while I was on maternity leave - I just popped baby in the seat on the bathroom floor with his firefly toy and prayed he'd amuse himself long enough so I could shave my pits.

"What To Expect: The First Year": I didn't read the pregnancy version of this book (actually, I really didn't read much of anything while I was preggo), but this book is written in an easy, casual manner and provides lots of interesting developmental information.

Due Date!

Sorry ladies, your due date is a bunch of crap. Babies come on their own schedule, so unless you have a planned c-section, you won't know when that person will decide to make his way into the world. And even when he does decide, your body may not cooperate. My suggestions:

Be flexible. Your birth plan is just that - a plan. It may not be reality. With a June 28 due date, I fully expected to spend my Independence Day sipping a long-awaited margarita in one hand while rocking my newborn with the other. He had other plans, and was ultimately evicted ten days after I thought for sure he'd arrive.

Do what's best for your baby. You may not want a c-section (I didn't), but that may be the best way get your baby out safely. If you are comfortable with your doctor and have trusted him/her so far, make sure you think very carefully about what they're suggesting and be sure to...

Ask a lot of questions about what to expect both before and after your baby arrives. Don't forget that you not only have to deal with all the contractions and other madness that leads up to your baby showing his face, you also have to handle what happens to your body after the fact. For example, I had no idea that I would experience such severe shaking after my c-section that I would hardly be able to hold my son. Shaking is very common, but that wasn't thoroughly explained to me.

{Laura's baby boy nursery}

What Now?

Every baby is different. This isn't news, but it's worth repeating. Each child grows differently in both mind and body, and while comparing notes with fellow moms is tempting (and we all do it), don't let another child's development make you think something is horribly wrong with your own wee one.

Your parental choices are yours to make. For personal, non-health reasons I chose to formula-feed my son from the get-go, and it's the single best decision I've made so far. Some moms may be horrified by this, and that's fine because I know that my choice is not adversely affecting my son. Whatever decisions you make - whether they be what to feed your baby or whether or not to go back to work - odds are that your kid is going to turn out just fine in the end. And everyone else should mind their own beeswax.

There's nothing more stressful/wonderful than being a parent. People who think that having a baby will fix their relationship problems clearly don't yet have children. Nothing is more of test of your relationships (mostly your marriage, but your friendships and family relationships as well). The sound of your baby crying will bore a hole in your brain. When you finally see that first smile, you'll be able tolerate that hole much better.

Give yourself time. All my mom friends told me that six weeks makes a huge difference. I didn't really understand what that meant until it happened. Suddenly he started sleeping better, didn't cry quite as much, and shortly graced us with his first grin. Those first six weeks were incredibly difficult. Fatigue + hormones = madness. Slowly, I started to feel like myself again.

It's not possible to be Super Mom; baby will think you're a super mom no matter what. Note that I am writing this to reaffirm this message to myself. It's hard advice to accept.

Giving birth is truly a miracle. It's amazing to watch my son become more and more aware of his world each day. His new favorite thing to do is touching people's faces. Although this means that my hair gets pulled out of my scalp and my glasses constantly have tiny fingerprints on them, I love his little way of showing affection and exploring his world.

At the end of the day, it won't matter whether you have all the "right" things in your house or the nursery decorated to perfection; all he will want to do is stare at you, and all you'll want to do is stare at him. Enjoy this special, crazy time!

Goodbye Patrick.

2010-12-01T14:23:00.007-06:00

Patrick

{who so thoughtfully confiscated my father's blackberry
for the duration of my wedding in 2006}

I wanted to take a time out today from the usual blogging about design and babies to say goodbye to Patrick, my cousin Carol's husband. Patrick passed away today after suffering massive head trauma in a terrible car accident in mid October. On Monday my family went to say goodbye to him at the hospice, and I cannot begin to describe how it felt to see what the past six weeks had done to such a young, healthy man.

{Patrick with Annie}

I'd like though to remember Patrick as he was. A gentle, sensitive man devoted to his family first and foremost. I'll best remember Patrick down at our family's bay house, where he spent most weekends fishing. He was truly in his element out on the water. Patrick's gentle nature also made him particularly good with animals -- I was always amazed at how well even the more difficult dogs in my family responded to his soft touch and firm voice. He was also wonderful with my Grandpa in the last years of his life. Now that Patrick is released from the confines of a body no longer able to contain him, I pray that he is able to find peace, a few dogs (take care of Olivia and Gretel for me!) and a great spot where the fish are always biting.

A few weeks ago, Dave and I heard a verse from Jeremiah (31:1) that has stuck with me: “The people who survive the sword will find favor in the wilderness; I will come to give rest to Israel.” The hardest part of the last six weeks has been watching my dear cousin and her sweet baby girl go through such heartache and stress. This has indeed been a trial by sword (and fire and whatever else). And I pray that God grants them both that rest and peace. I love you Carol and Annie!

Advice for New Moms: Green Street

2010-11-30T07:25:00.015-06:00

Dave and I are back from Florida and this week we've got not one but two guest posts coming in my Advice for New Moms series. Today, I'd like to welcome Fran from Green Street. Fran is a fabulous mom with an equally fabulous sense of style and I'm sure you'll find her advice as helpful as I have. Take it away, Fran!

* * *

Congratulations Averill - I am very happy for you and your husband for your upcoming new addition! Thank you for inviting me to participate in your series. I have a 3 year old son who is the love of my life! While three years is certainly not a long time, it definitely feels like eternity since my days of cradling a newborn. My mind is a bit foggy, but there are some things you will never forget.

Most Indispensible Product:

Hands down - swaddling blankets! If I had to recommend the best swaddling blankets out there, it would be aden + anais muslin swaddling blankets. They are lightweight and breathable (100% cotton), sized generously and have a wide selection of beautiful designs. This will save you from a lot of sleepless nights! (But, learn how to swaddle tightly!)

Nursery Must Haves:

Land of Nod changing pad covers.

And, don't forget the Diaper Dekor Plus which is very good at controlling odors!

At a very young age, my son listened to music. I would always have music in the back ground while caring for him. I love Music Together's collection of songs. And, when your baby gets older, they have classes to enroll your child in. They're fabulous!

And, the last nursery must have to complement your nursery design (which is fabulous, btw) are the Land of Nod eco-friendly wild and wheelie animals.

Most Useless Product: were the sleep wedge and positioners (at least for me)!

If I had to do it over again:

I would have bought a calendar and recorded all the milestones (even the littlest of milestones). At a later date, I would then transfer all the dates to a journal so I would have a record of my son's baby years. Moreover, I would have taken a picture of him every month in the same position so I could see the progression of his growth over the year!

Well, Averill, I have no doubt that you'll be a wonderful mommy!! Best of luck to you and we can't wait to see your little boy!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-23T12:28:00.003-06:00

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite times of year. I absolutely love the holiday's emphasis on family, gratitude and (of course!) food -- especially since those same virtues don't come with the attendant stresses of gifting and performance anxiety that Christmas inevitably seems to put everyone under. After a stressful fall, I'm particularly thankful this year for what I do have: my health, the support and love of my husband, family and friends, and the anticipation of getting to spend next Thanksgiving with a new addition to our family.

Dave and I are off today to Florida to see his family. Whether you're traveling or staying at home, I wish you the happiest of Thanksgivings.

Photograph courtesy of MarthaStewart.com.

Nursery Design: The Beginning

2010-11-18T13:47:00.000-06:00

So I'm over 24 weeks into my pregnancy, which gives me less than 16 weeks (or 3.5 months for those unaccustomed to measuring time in weeks) to decorate Baby Boy Conn's nursery. To give you an idea of what we're starting with, above is a shot of the soon-to-be nursery. I had considered cleaning the room out first before taking a photo, but I thought I'd best be totally honest with you guys. As you can see, the room is our currently storage room, chock-a-block full of leftover furniture, hand weights, Christmas gifts and baby clothes (largely courtesy of my sister, soon-to-be Auntie Babs).

So the first task, obviously, will be to clear out the space, donate/sell the unwanted furniture and install the ceiling fan that's still sitting in a box on top of that old IKEA ottoman. Once that's accomplished, the room will truly be a tabula rasa for my nursery vision.

As mentioned in previous posts, I've decided to go with an orange and aqua color palette for the nursery, accented with plenty of white. The dominant patterns will be stripes and the alphabet (or typography, really), both of which are currently en vogue but also happen to be (male) child appropriate.

The first task will be repainting the room from its current greige to a soft aqua; I'm thinking of going with Benjamin Moore's Seabrook, but I need to get a sample up on the walls before I make the final call (yet another task for this weekend!).

All of the major furniture pieces will be white and relatively modern in style. Given how dark the room is, I didn't want to drag it down with dark, heavy furniture. The Sparrow Crib from Oeuf has the fresh simplicity that I'm looking for and in person it seemed sturdy and well constructed (added bonus: this one will also convert to a toddler bed, buying me an extra year or two before I have to spring for his "big boy" bed). The Bam six-drawer dresser is similarly clean lined and the sort of piece I can see using in an older child's room in a few years time.

I debated about whether or not to spring for a changing station -- in many ways it seems like an unnecessary expense -- but ultimately I've decided to go with Stokke's care changing station for several reasons: (a) I absolutely adore how tall it is -- the height is way more comfortable for me than the standard dresser or changing station; (b) I'm giving cloth diapers a go and as such will need a designated station near the bathroom for optimal efficiency; and (c) once the kiddo is out of diapers (and the sooner, the better in my book!), this piece can function as an open bookshelf or even a small desk with just a few minor adjustments.

The other major purchase will be a rocker/recliner. I absolutely love the lines of Jennifer Delonge's luxe rocker and the punchy aqua velvet would inject a stylish note into the space; however, I may end up going with a different (but similar) piece that I can test out in person as this baby is, alas, only available online.

For bedding, I'm keeping it simple with Giggle's orange striped crib sheet and forgoing a bumper altogether [aside: a new study indicates that you're better off without one for safety purposes]. The darling aqua/orange blanket not only coordinates with my color scheme but features a pair of darling dinosaurs. (Dave and I were both big-time dinosaur fans as children so I'm rather hoping BB Conn will feel similarly rather than developing an obsession with, say, monster trucks, to which I cannot at all relate.) I'll also be transforming the Alphabet Tales fabric from Osborne & Little's new Zagazoo collection into throw pillows, crib skirt and a pelmet box for the lone window.

To liven up my beige carpet, I'll be laying down DwellStudio's peppy draper stripe rug, a great buy at $200 for a 5' x 8' (and I prefer a cotton flat weave -- much easier to keep clean with a baby than anything too plush!). Among other accessories (yet to be chosen, I'll be honest), I'm thinking of going with this fun orange lamp from Jonathan Adler. Art wise, I've long loved Binth's alphabet poster, with its vintage style and soft orange, blue and gray colors, so of course I snapped it up the first chance I got to actually use it. I'm also adding a pair of letterpress prints from Sycamore Street Press and a beautiful Noah's Ark print from Bold & Noble (not shown in the collage).

Stay tuned for updates over the coming weeks! In the meantime though, happy weekend!

Guest Post at Cottage and Vine

2010-11-17T08:05:00.001-06:00

Today you'll find me guest blogging over at Cottage and Vine. This week Rene has been featuring guest bloggers' gift ideas for just about everyone on your list and today she's asked me to share some of my top gift picks for men this holiday season. Please stop by and say "hi" -- and, of course, feel free to share what's on your shopping list this year (I'm always looking for more ideas!).

Advice for New Moms: (Chef)uality

2010-11-16T07:10:00.070-06:00

Today I'm thrilled to welcome my dear sister-in-law Dani , the blogger behind the fantastic food video blog (Chef)uality and mother of two of my all-time favorite kiddos (yes, they also happen to be my nephew and niece, but I'd still argue they're unequivocally awesome and I give Dani tons of credit for how they're turning out). And so, it's little wonder that I've asked for her advice and sage wisdom this week -- and you can bet I'll be pumping her for more info. when I see her over Thanksgiving. [I'll be honest though, I already told my OB that I'm down with the epidural!!]

* * *

Dave & Averill,

It's a boy! Congratulations! I am sure you are sick of hearing the whole "your life is going to change" spiel from family and, if it has happened to you, random strangers. I remember when I was pregnant some random desk clerk at Hertz lectured Micah and I for 15 minutes on how things will never be the same, and how we just can't imagine it now, how much he wasn't prepared and, well you get it. Unless you are totally clueless you can probably assume that OF COURSE your life is going to change. People have probably also inundated you with advise regarding what to expect during delivery, how to care for a newborn, and so on. Here are some things people may have not told you, some serious, some not, and some totally random, but it's information I wish new moms shared with me!

- You do not know how much you love the little Conn until you hold him in your arms; your heart will melt when you see him in David's.

- You will take pleasure, secretly, of another child having a melt down in a public place.
- You won't be able to sit and have a nice meal at a restaurant for at least three years.
- No matter how hard you try, your house will turn into Kiddie World.
- You will become an expert one-handed (and dare I say no-handed) driver.
- From now on, quiet will never be a good thing...It usually means mischief is going on.

- You will be scared when your child has a fever, and think the worse. This goes back to the whole neurotic thing.
- Your medicine cabinet will soon look like a Walgreen's pharmacy.
- Inevitably, you will compare your child to another child.

- As the kids get older, the happy hour gets earlier.

- Yet, the first time you go away for an adult mini-vacation, and sit to enjoy some peace and quiet, all you will think about is how much you miss the chaos.
- If you are considering it, go natural! Birth that is. It's the most painful experience. You will curse and cry but you will feel like superwoman afterwords. Get one of those exercise balls, the one you use to do crunches, straddle it, and bounce. I swear that when I did this, I did not feel a single contraction! Swear!
- Diaper caution: Be wary! Boys have great aim!- You actually won't mind when some baby poo accidentally gets on your hand.
-No sleep will leave your short tempered, not to mention feeling like a zombie.
- There will be days that you will feel like a failure.
- There will be days you will cry, not from joy, but from frustration.
- There will be days you will feel like the world's worst mom.
- Routines are invaluable, start one immediately.
- You will become totally neurotic.
- No matter how much experience someone else has, you will believe that no one can take better care of that baby than you.
- Watch out! Mom circles are like being at a mid-week brunch at some yuppie country club. They constantly boast, brag and compare. Choose your mom friends wisely.
- Moms that breastfeed can have a "holier than thou" persona. It is so obnoxious! (I can say this, because I breast fed.)- You will fight with David more than you ever have. (I never really understood the whole "We are having a kids to save our marriage" deal.) But don't worry, your relationship will become stronger.
- Don't feel guilty when you start comparing yourself to other moms.

So here are a few things that I have saved me in my journey through motherhood:

The nurse at the hospital sold Micah and I a copy of this DVD and it pretty much saved our life. You will watch it and wonder how the heck these strategies will work, but they do! It's so amazing you will actually be tempted to "perform the magic" to an audience. I don't say this often, but skip the book, and get the DVD.

There's nothing I enjoy more than laying in a hammock, so I could only imagine how the little peanut feels bundled up in a baby sling. I pretty much had a fourth trimester of pregnancy...that's how much time Cayden spent in this thing.

Of all the baby books I have read, this one was the best. The authors are witty and their take on parenting is so refreshing. The overall message is that your baby doesn't need a ton of crap to be happy, it just needs you. They share funny stories, and practical solutions, on temper tantrums, sleep, pacifiers, siblings, and so much more.

This book pretty much transformed me from a walking zombie to functioning mother.

I highly recommend the Britax Marathon car seat. We have been through a few and this one is amazing. You will never have to purchase another one since it is appropriate for children 5 to 70 pounds! It also doesn't hurt that they have super cute design options!

You are going to be so tired from sleepless nights. Get a co-sleeper so you don't have to get out of bed every three hours. When baby wakes, you just grab, nurse, and fall asleep. It pretty much rocks. 

Ikea rocks when it comes to kids!

As soon as the peanut turns into Picasso, frame his art! It's my favorite part of the kids' room.

DwellStudio Stationery

2010-11-15T11:04:00.000-06:00

DwellStudio has recently teamed up with Tiny Prints to launch a new line of paper goods. The clean, crisp modern designs combined with the fresh color choices perfectly channel the brand's home and baby offerings. Above is a selection of holiday card designs that I think are particularly charming. Even better, many of these have coordinating gift tags and address labels, ensuring all your paper needs are met for the coming holiday season. And, of course, the brand made famous for beautifully designed options for the nursery has a deep selection of birth announcement cards on offer as well -- and I'm making a mental note to revisit the site next spring for just such a purpose.

Advice for New Moms: Emily A. Clark

2010-11-09T07:00:00.002-06:00

Today's sage advice on motherhood comes from Emily of Emily A. Clark, interior decorator, mommy of three, and DIY-genius. I'm particularly grateful for all the "what not to waste your time/money on" advice that's been featured in so many of these guest posts (including this one!). In fact, I'm off to delete some more items from my registry now.

* * *

I'm so happy for Averill and her husband on their impending new addition. It's hard to believe that in six short years, I've become the mother of three. Watch out, Averill! While I still don't feel like I exactly know what I'm doing, I have learned a few things along the way that I'm happy to share.

My favorites:

Baby Gap's "favorite bundlers" are the absolute best, softest gowns I've found. My babies lived in these for the first few months of their lives. They are extremely washable and so easy for those middle-of-the-night diaper changes. I would highly recommend stocking up on these.

I started off with the deluxe, super-padded highchair for my first baby. By the second baby, it was a nasty mess and so bulky that it was always in the way. When my third baby was ready to sit and eat, we ditched the big highchair and went for this small, sleek model from IKEA. You can buy the padding, if you want it. I use it without so that it's even easier to wipe down. It's lightweight and small enough to tuck away in the corner.

Let me start by saying that not one generic diaper or wipe ever touched my first baby's bottom. Name brand all the way. Fast forward to my third baby, and I'm not sure she's ever seen a real "Pamper." It's definitely an individual decision, but for me personally, I can tell absolutely no difference in the generic vs. name-brand diapers--except for the price. I'm still using Parent's Choice (Wal-Mart's brand) diapers and wipes with my third, and it hasn't seem to slow her down :)

The "Bumbo" seat was a lifesaver for me. As soon as they could hold their heads up, I popped them in one. We kept it on our kitchen counter (this is technically against the rules!) while they were really little (always supervised, of course) and even took it out to eat with us. The baby is happy because he feels like he is up and a part of what's going on. Mommy is happy because she actually has both hands free to eat/cook/etc. It's a win-win!

While sippy cups won't come into the picture for a while, these by Gerber are my absolute favorites. We've gone through lots of cups in our house, and these are the only ones I've found that don't leak and hold up during lots of dishwasher cycles.

I Could've Done Without. . . .

I was adamant that I had to have a $25 wipe warmer on our first baby registry. In truth, I used the thing for two weeks and threw it out. It dried out the wipes and the baby didn't seem to care either way. I think he just wanted a clean diaper.

While some moms swear by a changing table, I never had one. I just felt like it was another piece to take up space and I honestly ended up changing my babies on our bed, the floor or (gasp!) our living room ottoman. If you feel like it's necessary, I would go for one of the covered, contoured pads that you place on top of a dresser so that you could remove it later.

My best advice. . . .

When I was pregnant with my first baby, I thought it would be a great idea to pre-invite everyone from work, neighbors, friends, etc., over to see the baby as soon as we got home from the hospital. Little did I know, I would be a hormonal, emotional, nervous wreck. I was exhausted but felt like I had to clean the house, put on make up, and wash my hair every time we had another round of visitors. Oh, and did I mention I was also struggling with feeding the baby? I was a mess and definitely learned my lesson. With my second and third babies, I turned off the phone, stayed in and spent the time getting used to our new family. It's a precious time and one that you should cherish with your husband and baby.

Best of luck, Averill! You'll be a terrific mommy.