So Pickin' Cute (Continued)

Pinterested?!

2011-10-27T05:07:00.000-07:00

After browsing pinterest for a while now, I finally decided to request an invite of my own! I'm finding some beautiful inspiration over there. I'm just getting started, but I wanted to invite you to come follow my boards. You can click on the first link in this post, or use the button on the right side of the page. You'll be my first friend!!!

Image: Pinterest

Kalia's 7th Birthday Tea Party

2011-10-03T08:49:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share a few of my favorite photos from Kalia's 7th Birthday Tea Party! The placemats and "menus" were free printables I found online, and my mom made the cute toy cupcakes. I used little picture frames (from Michael's dollar bin), with a photo of Kalia and each girl for their place cards. If you're interested in other details, such as activities and favors, feel free to send an e-mail my way.

Happy Birthday, Kalia!!!

My New Addiction

2011-09-13T06:41:00.000-07:00

Hello blogland friends! I hope you're still there. I'm afraid I haven't had a lot of time for blogging lately. Well, okay -- I haven't MADE a lot of time for blogging lately!

Anyway, Kalia's 7th Birthday party is in less than two weeks, and I have been busy "researching" for the big day. She would like to have a tea party, and I'm so excited about the food and decor, but games and activities have been a struggle. Do you have any good ideas?!

Although I don't have a lot of activity ideas, I hit the jackpot with free printables, and I wanted to share some of my favorites with you today. I am pretty much addicted to browsing the web for free printables now. I found a TON of cute ideas on the site EAT drink CHIC. I especially love the picnic invitations, popsicle memory game, and hanky love letters...but really, there wasn't anything on her site that I didn't like! I almost want to throw a picnic party, just so I have an excuse to use those cute invitations! I might print my tea party menu on the sweet hanky love letters.

When you're done at EAT drink CHIC, you should head over to The Pretty Blog for some more eye candy. I am going to use the free printable placemats at the tea party as well. Aren't they adorable?!

If you're looking for some cute, free art for your nursery or playroom, check out the printable alphabet cards over at the handmade home. AhhhMAZING! I haven't even scratched the surface of what I found over the last couple of weeks. There are some great ideas and printables for boy birthdays as well...but we'll save that for another day. Be careful...free printables are addictive! I'll be back soon.

Images:
1 EAT drink CHIC
2 The Pretty Blog
3 the handmade home

Peekin' On Pickin' - Angela's Loft

2011-03-24T06:54:00.000-07:00

Hi there! Soooo, this is going to be thee coolest loft you have ever seen in your entire life...I'm pretty sure. My dear, dear friend Angela purchased her antiques store several years ago, and has been working hard at transforming the upper level into her personal (and amazing) living space. You're going to love it!

So here, we have the kitchen. Don't you love the yellow?! So cheerful. Check out the long subway bench behind the dining table...and those chairs! Ooooooo.

The antique doors on the left side of the photo open to the pantry. How cool is that?!

...and here we have the living room. Angela has a knack for hanging art, don't you think?

You can't see it very well in this photo, but that stained glass mirror on the left is one of my favorite pieces.

And here we have a charming little seating area. I love all the attention to detail, from floor to ceiling. Have you noticed the cool rugs and lighting throughout?

Welcome to the office! She used an antique crib, and converted it to a little sofa covered with old feed sack pillows. Super neato.

Here's a better view of the pillows, and I'm pretty sure I recognize some design school projects hanging above the bed. Mine are in the attic somewhere - but I love the idea of displaying them for artwork. Angela often lectures me about my naked walls, so I'll have to hang my projects before her next visit!

Crates on wheels - brilliant storage solution.

I'm willing to bet that none of you have a pair of oversized spectacles hanging in your home - but you're jealous...aren't you?? I am! They came from an old optometrist's office.

Oooooooo...a gallery wall full of Huldahs! A little piece of heaven, folks.

This is where Angela gets her beauty sleep.

Okay, I'm jealous of the closet too. I suppose we could all trade our doors out for some pretty antiques! I love the bracket hooks. She sure has some nifty ideas! (I don't generally whip out the word "nifty", but sometimes it just works.)

Speaking of "nifty", check out the maps. -- SUPER nifty. Don't miss the sofa she had reupholstered!

How cool is this re-purposed shoe rack from a warehouse. It makes a great display piece for Angela's cigar box collection.

Now we get a little peek at the Master bathroom.

Angela re-purposed some old barn doors in the Guest bedroom for some privacy and separation. Sweet idea!

My favorite thing about the Guest bath would have to be the distressed piece of furniture used for the sink.

Here's a close-up. I'm drooling over this one!!

Well that, my friends, is the last room on our tour. If you need some similar eye candy, you can browse Angela's website...or better yet, visit Angelique's Antiques in Hazel, Kentucky.

And the winner IS...

2011-02-06T10:35:00.000-08:00

Jennai! Kalia and I put numbers in a hat, and she picked lucky #7. Congratulations Jennai! I will pass along your $50 CSN gift certificate. Forgive me for the delayed post.

So, was the weather crazy in your neck of the woods last week? Kalia has been home from school since Tuesday! I'm going a bit stir crazy. I'm SO ready for Spring, and this Birthday party I saw on Ohdeedoh is a little Spring-esque, and incredibly inspiring. I'm already thinking about Kalia's October party! Don't you love the hankie placemats?!

Images: Marissa Noe Photography / Ohdeedoh

$50 CSN Giveaway...

2011-01-23T07:35:00.000-08:00

Hello friends! I realize I have been slacking in the blogging department, but I have an announcement and a giveaway for you today!!!

First, I would like to announce that we had our baby boy!!! Actually, he was born in November, and we named him Bennett, meaning "little blessed one". His middle name is Jude, in case you were curious. We are really enjoying his smiles, and he gave me my first eight-hour night of sleep on Friday. Hooray!! He is keeping me busy, but I DO have plans to pick up blogging again in the near future. In fact, my friend Angela has been busy setting up her loft apartment right above her antiques store, so hopefully I will be sharing photos with you soon. (No pressure, Angela!)

Now, for the giveaway details -- I'm sure you are familiar with CSN stores by now, and they are offering a $50 gift certificate to any of their 200+ stores. Yay!!! You should check out their furniture site, where you can find adjustable bar stools, headboards, sofas, and much more. You can shop home decor, housewares, baby and kids, and just about anything else you can imagine! To enter the giveaway, just post a comment with some form of contact information, and just for fun, tell me about the best deal/bargain you've ever found. I want to know about the item, and how much you paid for it. I love a good bargain story!

Just so you know, if you happen to win, shipping is not covered by the gift certificate. I will announce the winner on February 5, 2011 -- so just be sure to enter by midnight on the fourth. Good luck!

Image: Mary Ruffle

PS I'm SO ready for Spring and flowers, how about you?!

And the Winner is...

2010-11-20T06:08:00.000-08:00

Gina from The Crave to Save -- Congratulations Gina! Enjoy your $65 gift certificate to CSN!!! Thanks to all of you for the great knock-knock jokes! I can't wait to share them with Kalia, so we can finally hear some variety around here!!!

Image: decor8 / danielle thompson photography

$65 CSN Giveaway...

2010-10-30T13:09:00.000-07:00

...in exchange for Knock-Knock Jokes!

I know, I know! I haven't done a post in ages, and I don't have a great excuse for you, since the baby has not yet arrived. I guess I have just been busy preparing for his arrival.

Hopefully, I can make it up to you with a fabulous giveaway from CSN Stores!!! You wouldn't even believe the selection they have to offer from their 200+ stores, where you can get anything from a drop leaf table, to bedding or lighting, or something for your kiddos -- and just in time for the Holidays! The winner will receive a $65 gift certificate to use on any product from any CSN site. How great is that?!

To enter, all you have to do is leave a comment on this post including your name, and your best knock-knock (or short) joke. (We must teach Kalia some new jokes -- IMMEDIATELY!) Jokeless entries will be accepted, but let's say a joke will give you an extra entry. Good luck to you all!

PS I will announce the winner on Saturday, November 20, 2010. Please leave your comment by midnight on Friday, November 19, and I am going to do a good old-fashioned 'name in the hat' drawing. I'm an honest person - I promise! Oh, and the $65 does not cover shipping.

Image: ateliegaaya.blogspot.com

Craigslist Junkie

2010-09-13T16:43:00.000-07:00

Soooo, I am trying to find a unique, masculine dresser for our baby boy, and in the process of scouting, I have become a Craigslist addict. It's soooooo addicting! There are some great deals on there, only you have to scoop them up IMMEDIATELY, or you'll lose 'em to some other Craigslist junkie. I have also figured out that you have to sound incredibly interested - or practically even commit to buying before you see the piece, or you'll miss your opportunity. Anyway, I am going to check out an antique bedroom set this evening, so wish me luck! Here are some of my recent Craigslist finds and scores. I know these are dreadful photos, but you get the idea. I'll bet I know where you're headed next! I'll make it easy for you: Click HERE!

French Bed : $1950 -- this one is still available, as far as I know. It's a little out of my price range at the moment. Would it be offensive to offer $150?? (wink, wink)

Guess how much I paid for this little desk...$25. It needs a little TLC, but overall, it's a great piece for the price. It currently holds art supplies in Kalia's playroom.

We bought this table last year for $40! It's another project we're attempting to tackle before the baby arrives. It will be beeeeautiful when it's done!

I'm absolutely kicking myself for passing up this armoire. It was advertised on Craigslist, but was being sold at an estate sale. We were first in line to see it on the last day of the sale, so it was 50% off, at $140. Randy and I took too long discussing it, and in the meantime, some lady declared her intentions to buy. Ugh!

I think this one was selling for $130, but it's too small, and too feminine for our baby on the way. It was still tempting!

Happy Craigslisting!

Cherry on Top

2010-09-09T07:06:00.000-07:00

I would like to introduce you to my friend TJ from Any Given Moment. She has become a blogging friend, as well as an e-mail buddy, and she's pretty swell! Recently, she gave out some blog awards, and I am supposed to choose one from the three she received. I am going with the 'Cherry on Top' Award - basically because it's cute, and it involves cupcakes! I would like to pass it on to 5 deserving bloggers.

1. TJ at Any Given Moment (Right back at ya!)

2. Ms. Bright at The Bright Life (We attended the same high school and college, and I LOVE her blog!)

3. Christina at Full House (She definitely has a beautiful blog - with that 'little bit extra'.)

4. Such Pretty Things (This is one of my daily reads. I LOVE it.)

5. Rebekka at Dear Friend (Rebekka was my first college roommate, and I love keeping up through our blogs. She sells adorable artwork on Etsy, as a fundraiser for her upcoming adoption.)

Pass it on. Thanks for the cute award, TJ!

Horsin' Around

2010-08-23T07:22:00.000-07:00

Hi there! I just wanted to share a few photos from our little trip to Lexington. We drove by that beautiful horse several times, and I just loved how it reminded me of a teacup. I felt like such a tourist, getting out to take photos (especially since I actually lived in Kentucky for about 8 years!), but I just had to have a picture. Turns out, the horse was labeled 'Teacup'!

We took Kalia to see Keeneland, and although it's not racing season, she seemed to enjoy herself. The grounds are absolutely beeeeeautiful. Remember the movie Seabiscuit?? Well, Keeneland was one of the filming locations.

We also met some old friends for dinner at Saul Good, and I just adored the atmosphere. It was the perfect combination of glitzy chandeliers, red velvet tufted booths, and ornate mirrors. The fondue wasn't bad either!

I hope you're having a good Monday -- this is Kalia's second week of Kindergarten. I really thought I would be fine, since she attended the same school last year for Pre-K...but once I dropped her off, and walked out the door on the first day, I couldn't keep the tears from spilling over. Either it's just the pregnancy hormones, or what they say about sending your kids off to Kindergarten is all true!

On another note, did you watch Design Star last night?! I won't spoil it for you, but I really enjoyed the last two weeks of the show. Oh, and did you see Southern Girl Desserts on The Antonio Treatment last week?! It was fun to see a cupcake shop makeover, and I got some great tips on frosting and decorating cupcakes. Hopefully you can catch it again, if you missed it. I'll be back soon with an award post, and some party inspiration for Kalia's October birthday!

Holy Hohan!

2010-08-09T06:48:00.000-07:00

What happened to July?! I can't believe Kalia will be starting Kindergarten next week! I hope you all had a lovely summer. I just wanted to share these beautiful dress photos from Maria Lucia Hohan's showroom, taken by The Cherry Blossom Girl. Aren't they gorgeous?

I will be back soon, to share a few photos from our li'l trip to Lexington.

Images: The Cherry Blossom Girl

Peekin' On Pickin' - Kalia's Room

2010-06-28T08:14:00.000-07:00

Hello, friends! I unintentionally took a verrrrrry long break from blogging. I hope you're still there! I realized that I haven't shared any photos of our new place. We moved in January, and are still in the process of decorating and settling. Kalia's room is the closest to being complete, although I'm never truly finished decorating! A few of her furniture pieces could use a fresh paint job, and I would love to find some more flower pins for the lampshade...but I have some bigger priorities at the moment. We found out that we're expecting a BOY! We are trying to decorate the nursery, and I'm working on coming up with a gender-neutral playroom design. I will try to photograph our progress, and share little tidbits with you. In the meantime, I would love to hear any advice you might have on raising boys. It's all new to me!

Oh Baby!

2010-05-19T13:04:00.000-07:00

I can finally justify purchasing one of these cuties from Chickabiddy Baby Boutique on Etsy! I fell in love with them probably over a year ago, but Kalia was a bit too old for a rattle...but guess what! We're expecting another little blessing in November!!! I wanted to get through the first trimester before sharing the news - and now that you know, I would love to share my ideas for the nursery and playroom once we get started. Hopefully the baby will cooperate, and we will find out the gender at the end of June. Then...let the design process begin!!!

PS Chickabiddy Baby Boutique has some masculine rattles too ~ so no worries if it's a boy!

Happy Thoughts

2010-05-05T07:22:00.000-07:00

Beautiful quilts for an outdoor picnic on a sunny day...

Wide, open spaces...

A sweet kiss...

Cute li'l books...

Flowers blossoming in Spring...

Hangin' out in the sunshine...

1 dress, design & decor 2 It's Mary Ruffle 3 Utterly Engaged / Max Wanger

4 Design Is Mine 5 Chocolate Therapy 6 My Serendipity

Aprons for Beda

2010-04-27T08:19:00.001-07:00

Do you remember Rebekka?! She was my very first college roommate, and holds a special place in my heart. Now, she and her husband Manley are raising support to adopt a sweet little girl (Beda) from Ethiopia. Rebekka has been busy whipping up these adorable child-sized aprons to sell on her website, and is now offering matching adult-sized aprons! You can help fund her adoption by visiting her website, and purchasing a sweet li'l apron or two. If the one you love is 'Sold Out', be sure to check back, because the site is updated frequently.

If you want to get to know Rebekka, or follow her through the adoption process, visit her beautiful blog. You may get to peek at the new loft she and Manley just purchased in Nashville! I have added an 'Aprons for Beda' button to 'So Pickin' Cute', so you can easily find the apron shop if you come back for another visit. I just purchased this sweet little yellow apron for Kalia, and can hardly wait to see it! Be sure to read the descriptions Rebekka included by each apron...they are so endearing!

Caravan Campin'

2010-04-05T08:38:00.000-07:00

How are you?! Did you have a nice Easter? We hosted dinner at our house for the first time this year, and I would definitely do it again! I got really lucky in the husband department ~ he is a huge help in the kitchen...in fact, he really should have gone to culinary school.

Anyway, Kalia is on Spring Break this week, and although we are just hanging out in Indiana this year, we have an extensive list of things to do! I'm hoping to run all my boring errands today, so we can enjoy the rest of our break. I just wanted to pop in since I have been MIA for the last week or two, and share these adorable caravan pix. I wouldn't mind spending a couple days hanging out in there with that beautiful wallpaper. That's my kind of camping!!!

Images: Lovelane Caravans / Daydate

Party Plannin'

2010-03-24T07:09:00.000-07:00

Did you catch this little party post on Decor8? The minute I saw it, I just knew I couldn't keep it to myself! Kalia has announced that she would like a "Bakery Birthday" this year ~ and I'm trying to plan ahead, before she changes her mind! (There is plenty of time, since her B-Day is in October). These vintage party photos taken by Jeremy Harwell are definitely going in my party inspiration file. I love it!

Images: Harwell Photography

Harwell Photography Blog

Decor8

Pink Loves Yellow

2010-03-16T07:40:00.000-07:00

(Beautiful Things to Share)

(Absolutely Beautiful Things)

(Decor8)

(Snippet & Ink)

(Beautiful Things to Share)

(The Enchanted Closet)

(Sarah Magid)

(Crayon Castles)

(Rebecca Thuss / Mary Ruffle)

(Martha Stewart Weddings)

Rose Hip

2010-03-12T07:18:00.000-08:00

These pillowcases are definitely on my wish list! Check out the rose hip blog and etsy shop.

Amanda Nisbet

2010-03-11T06:27:00.000-08:00

Melissa Rufty is still my hero, but I am definitely admiring the work of Amanda Nisbet. Check out her portfolio. I think it's interesting that both women paired the Manuel Canovas pink and orange toile (in the first photo), with brown and white fabrics. Would you hire Amanda Nisbet, or Melissa Rufty? Tough choice! Who is your absolute favorite designer?

Images: Amanda Nisbet / Elements of Style

Issue No. 008

2010-03-10T11:13:00.000-08:00

If you haven't checked out the latest issue of Utterly Engaged ~ you really should! And have you seen the Spring 2010 issue of Martha Stewart Weddings? Although I'm married, I couldn't resist flipping through at the grocery store the other day...it's all about PINK! So dreamy.

Image: Utterly Engaged

Sweet M's

2010-03-08T13:14:00.000-08:00

I would like to introduce you to my friend Maggie ~ although you may remember her house tour from my other blog. Maggie and her husband Kyle adopted a sweet little girl (Luci) several years ago, and she has been such a blessing to their family. Now Maggie wants to "pay it forward" and help other families in funding their own adoptions. Isn't that fabulous?! She is so stylish and creative, and has such sweet items to offer on her site (for the little girls in your life). I would just encourage you to check out her blog, and help her raise some support for Kami McKibben (a precious little girl from Ethiopia, waiting to join her new family). Fifty percent of the profits will benefit Kami, and the other fifty will cover material expenses. Please pay a visit to Sweet M's for all the details, and let's bring Kami home!!!

Image: Sweet M's
One of my personal favorites: Let them eat cake!
More Information: About Sweet M's

PS Don't you just LOVE the cupcake and rosette combo?! Two of my favorite things on one sweet shirt. Maggie, you rock! I wish we lived in the same state so I could learn your techniques and work with you in that amazing craft room!

Cupcake Crazy

2010-02-25T17:14:00.000-08:00

What if a guy showed up for a date in his Customized Cupcake Car from Neiman Marcus?! HaHa. It might be fun to take one for a spin, and it would definitely save on garage space. With a maximum speed of 7 mph, and a $25,000 price tag, I won't be designing one any time soon. I wonder if they thought about making a child-sized cupcake pedal car for kids. Hmmm...Do ya think I'm on to somethin'?!

Image: Neiman Marcus

Two Minutes & Fifty-Three Seconds

2010-02-19T13:36:00.000-08:00

I can definitely relate to this photo. I spent the day with a bunch of Pre-Kindergarten classes, subbing at Kalia's school, and all I want to do is flop down on the bed and sleep! But here I am, blogging, while I should be figuring out what to make for dinner. I just had to sneak in a quick post.

These sheets remind me of the tent scene from The Holiday for some reason. If you have no idea what I'm talking about, then you MUST WATCH THIS - NOW! It will only take two minutes and fifty-three seconds - I promise! I saw it again last night, and decided that you need to see it too. I would love to hang out in there, reading design magazines and taking naps. Ahhhh, doesn't that sound appealing? Anyway, enjoy the scene, and have a marvelous weekend. Oh, and let me know if you have any delicious (but quick) dinner ideas!

Image: Ohdeedoh

Magnifique Technique

2010-02-15T09:56:00.001-08:00

I just want to take some photography classes, travel the world, and photograph beautiful shops, people, and bakeries. Is that weird?! Are any of you into photography? I LOVE this type of photograph, but I'm not sure how to describe it, or capture it. Any tips? It's just kind of blurry or foggy in all the right places, and it has a vintage appearance. I must learn this technique!

Images: Dress, Design & Decor / Martha Stewart Weddings

Dress to Impress

2010-02-10T11:19:00.000-08:00

I don't know if I actually want to wear this dress, or if I just want to hang it on my wall as an art piece. Either way, it caught my attention!

Image: This is Glamorous

You Are My Sunshine

2010-02-08T12:45:00.000-08:00

(Country Living)

(Brown Button / Tumblr)

(Kalia's Bathing Suit)

I could definitely use a little sunshine today - how about you?! The ground is covered in slush right now, and we're supposed to get another snow dumping this evening. *sigh* At least The Bachelor is on tonight, so I can curl up in my comfies and snack on some Joe-Joe's (delicious chocolate cookies from Trader Joe's), while indulging in one of my most favorite shows. (Yep - I'll admit it.) Yay!

Anyway, I am loving yellow this season, and never stopped loving ruffles...so I found the perfect bathing suit for Kalia! What color are you in love with right now? Anyone else in on The Bachelor tonight?! We'll have to compare notes after the show.

Buttercup Cottage Down Memory Lane

2010-02-03T06:58:00.000-08:00

Last night, I finally sat down to catch up on my blog reading. I am SO behind! I think I only made it through the A's and B's. Have you been over to A Field Journal? I LOVE that blog! Do yourself a favor, and head on over for a peek. Isn't her dollhouse amazing? When I was in first grade, I broke my leg while ice skating - and that year for Christmas, my parents spent hours assembling a 3-story dollhouse kit. It was the perfect gift, since I had to do a lot of sitting anyway. I spent decades playing with that piece. Kalia is going to receive the same dollhouse in a couple years, and I can't wait to spend time decorating it together. Mine was gray with a black roof, but I just adore this yellow and pink cottage. Do you have a dollhouse?

Images: A Field Journal

Finally. Fabric!

2010-01-28T12:17:00.000-08:00

Hellooooooo! I have missed you terribly. Since my blog break, I have found myself constantly thinking, "man...this would make a great post". I received some adorable cupcake-ish items for my Birthday this year, and it about killed me to keep them to myself! Then, I found another little bakery in town with a bathtub-sized cupcake on the roof. (That might be a slight exaggeration - but it's pretty darn big!) I am waaaaaaaaaay behind on reading my favorite blogs, and definitely need to build up my inspiration photo folder. However, I did find this tutorial on making fabric pom-poms the other day. I know we had a little discussion about the durability of the tissue paper version, so I thought you might be thrilled about this DIY project. I would love to hang some in Kalia's playroom. Where would you hang them?

Image: Ada & Darcy / Once Wed

And The Winner Is...

2010-01-02T05:49:00.001-08:00

ROSE!!! Random.org selected the number 4, so we have our winner! Congratulations Rose, and happy new year to you all!

Great Day for a GIVEAWAY!

2009-12-21T07:15:00.000-08:00

Hello?? Are you still there?! I know I said I would be taking a break from blogging, but I was presented with a fabulous giveaway opportunity, and couldn't resist popping in to share it with you before the holidays.

First of all, let me introduce you to CSN's Dining Rooms Direct - a wonderful source for dinnerware, glassware, linens, dining room furniture, and even more. Now, let's discuss the prize! (Drumroll, please.) The winner of this giveaway offer will be allowed to choose any item from Dining Rooms Direct, valued at $60 or less - thanks to my new friends from CSN Stores. I browsed around for a few minutes - (okay, fine...HOURS!) - and there are many pickin' cute items to choose from!

To enter the giveaway contest, all you have to do is post a comment telling me what you would choose with the $60! I will give you some time to browse Dining Rooms Direct, so you may enter until January 1st, 2010. The winner will be posted on the blog January 2nd, so make sure that I have a way to contact you if you're the lucky gal (or guy). Sorry to my International friends - shipping is only available to the U.S. and Canada. Good luck dear friends, and have a very Merry Christmas!

~Abby

PS I will be using random.org to choose a winner. If you mention the giveaway on your own blog, and add another comment with the link, you will be entered for an extra chance to win! Also, I am not officially off my blogging break, but hope to start up again in the next few months. If you are just here for the giveaway (no shame in that), be sure to check out my original site here.

Farewell Friends

2009-11-09T10:32:00.000-08:00

When I started blogging last February or so, I was immediately addicted, and it became a daily routine - almost like brushing my teeth! As most of you know, I posted so much, and so often, that I ran out of photo space on my original site. So, I decided to come over here, and pick up where I left off, but somewhere in that transition, I started desperately desiring a break. With the holidays and my big move quickly approaching, this just seems like a good time to conclude the blog.

I wanted to let you all know that I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know you through your comments and your own blogs, and will genuinely miss hearing from you. I will try to keep up with your blogs, and will post a note on here if I ever have the urge to start up again when life calms down. (This is definitely a good possibility!)

Thanks SO much for reading, and I wish you all the best!

xoxo,
Abby

PS I realize the photo has absolutely nothing to do with my post, but I had to leave you with some kind of inspiration - and I LOVE this particular piece. Image: Daisy Pink Cupcake

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T12:38:00.000-07:00

Wouldn't you love to see this place restored?? It would be absolutely ahhhh-mazing. Right now it looks just creepy enough for a Halloween post. Sorry about my lack of effort in blogging lately. I really do hope you'll stick around, because eventually, I do plan on posting more frequently! What are your plans for tonight? We are going to trick-or-treat with some friends, and Kalia is going as "Snow White". She hasn't seen the movie, but that's what she chose for her costume. Unfortunately, the bottom of her dress is shredded, from jumping in a bouncy house this morning (I know - so lady-like)...so we might end up going as "Belle" instead. Enjoy your weekend, and we'll chat next week!

Image: Home Sweet Home

Bedding Borders

2009-10-22T07:58:00.000-07:00

(Material Girls)

(House of Turquoise)

(beach bungalow 8)

Sometimes I don't even realize how much I like something, until I find myself saving photos and posting similar items repeatedly. One thing I seem to be drawn to in the bedding department lately, is simple borders or geometric patterns on pillows and duvets. Who would have thought?! If you don't already have one, you should start your own inspiration blog, to see what you really like!

Hanky Panky

2009-10-22T07:11:00.000-07:00

(Poppylarity)

(Posh Tots)

There is SO much sickness going around here - it's just crazy! Last week I subbed at Kalia's school several times, and this week, Kalia has been home with a fever since Sunday. Now Randy seems to have caught the bug. Are you all staying well? I know people are getting sick everywhere, and schools are even shutting down because it's just ridiculous how many kids have been calling in sick!

Although it seems to be cold and flu season, I could never, EVER bring myself to use such beautiful hankies as kleenex. I have a small collection of vintage hankies passed down from my Grandma, but unfortunately, they are just sitting in a little box in the closet. After we move, I have decided to use them in Kalia's future playroom. I informed my mom that 'we' have a sewing project, and she agreed to help me create a window treatment. I also wanted to share the first photo, because I love bunting oh-so-much, and love the idea of creating bunting out of old hankies. Isn't that great?! If you aren't feeling ambitious enough to tackle the project on your own, you can purchase the bunting in the photo at the etsy shop 'Poppylarity'.

Oh! The second photo is just for inspiration - I haven't actually made mine yet. Y'all stay well now!

UGH! I have a question for you other blogger users...do you ever have issues with spacing or separating paragraphs on here?! SO obnoxious. I'll try to fix it later.

Kiddie Cuteness

2009-10-13T08:20:00.000-07:00

Obviously, I was not successful in limiting myself to one post for the day. I just had to share this adorable bedroom, and now I'm officially done. For now.

Image: ish and chi / flickr

Sorry, Pink.

2009-10-13T07:38:00.000-07:00

I am just popping in to tell you that I saw this pillow over at elements of style, and do you know where it came from??? Target! It is only available online, and I absolutely love it. I can't tell you anything about the quality since (unfortunately) I haven't actually seen or held one - but the picture looks good, and the price is right (at $19.99). Before I did my research, I was going to say that I wish I had some more color options. (Sorry, pink - you're still my favorite!) Then, I found it in black and teal! If you're a fan of the style, what color would you prefer?

Image: Target

Pink Delight

2009-10-07T06:49:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love the lamp in here. I also love the pale pink drapes, puddled on the floor. Oh, and don't forget the moulding! I wonder if Randy could survive in a pink living room. Hmmm....

Image: first home

Pickin' Cute Inspiration

2009-10-07T06:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I found these adorable inspiration boards from Johnny Miller on ada & darcy. I honestly think I'm going to create some inspiration boards of my own, for each room of my new place. I know - I'm such a dork, but I think it would help Randy to see my vision for the rooms, and it would help me stay focused. I often get off track when I'm out shopping and find a piece I absolutely "can't live without", whether I have the perfect place for displaying it, or not. As a designer, I can appreciate so many styles and color schemes, but I want to really focus in on one particular idea. Have you ever created an inspiration board for yourself?

Images: Johnny Miller / ada & darcy

Life Update

2009-09-29T07:00:00.000-07:00

Hello friends! I have been trying to pop in and post some eye candy for you every now and then, but all of a sudden, I have just been overwhelmed with everything going on in life right now. My husband almost took a job in the Chicago suburbs recently, until he received an offer in the Indianapolis area - and decided to stay here.

We just moved here last fall, and quickly understood that his new job would not be his last. Now we will need to move a little closer to his new job in the very near future. I am so excited to announce that we have been house hunting, and finally found "the one"! It's so nice to have that piece of our puzzle solved, and soon our weeks will be filled with meetings, excitement, and lots of boxes!

Kalia is back into the swing of school, soccer and AWANA, and I have been busy planning her upcoming birthday parties - (three, to be exact). It didn't work out for our families to be here on the same weekend, so we're having two family parties, and one kid party. Yikes! Hopefully I will have some cute photos to share at some point.

It took forever, but we finally found a Church to call home this past year, and we just got involved with a small group there. It's so exciting to make new friends, and it feels like our social calendar is filling up more quickly. Anyway, I just realized that I haven't been consistently posting on here, so I thought I would share a bit about what's going on in our household right now. I'm sure that everything will slow down once the parties are over, and hopefully, I will get back to searching for home inspiration...especially since I'll need some for my new place!

Images: Decor8 / Homes & Gardens UK

Bedroom Bliss

2009-09-29T05:35:00.000-07:00

(Shoot Factory)

(Home Sweet Home)

(Desire to Inspire)

(Shoot Factory)

(Ada and Darcy)

(Dear World, You're Pretty)

Frilly Frocks

2009-09-24T05:45:00.000-07:00

(Brides.com)

(Beth Retro Photography)

(The Wedding Chicks)

(Fleur Avenue)

Dish Duty

2009-09-24T05:20:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, our dishwasher has been out of commission for the last few days, but our new one should be here by Friday. Yay! It's so easy to take that thing for granted, until you have to wash everything by hand. We're so spoiled!

To be honest, I needed a good excuse to share this photo. I mean- it's all true, but I wouldn't generally blog about my broken dishwasher unless I had a really sweet picture (such as the one above) - that I've been waiting to post. Now, I'm pretty sure that the majority of those plates would not be dishwasher safe, but it sure makes for a pretty photo.

Image: Yahgie Interiors

Baby Sophisticate

2009-09-24T04:52:00.000-07:00

I'll give you three good reasons to love this room...

1. The damask wallpaper
2. The pink and turquoise combo
3. The sophistication of the overall nursery

In my opinion, it is such a good idea to use furniture pieces and lighting that you won't end up listing on Craigslist when your baby turns seven or eight. It is much easier to change out artwork and accessories rather than entire pieces of furniture. Of course if you love to re-decorate, and it's in the budget, it would be hard to deny yourself the pleasure!

Image: Ohdeedoh

Living Room Love

2009-09-22T05:28:00.000-07:00

(Lolalina)

(Home Sweet Home)

(House of Turquoise via The Glam Lamb)

(Domino)

(Heidi Claire)

(decorology)

Yippee Skippy

2009-09-22T04:58:00.000-07:00

I really wish I could remember who deserves the credit for introducing me to Skippy Designs on Etsy, but I have no idea. I just know I love the lighting, colors and subjects in Mandy Lynne's work. Wouldn't it be fun to take that car for a spin? If you're adoring these photos, then check out Mandy's gorgeous portfolio.

Images: Skippy Designs

Show 'n' Tell

2009-09-17T05:21:00.000-07:00

Well, I hope you don't mind if I share a few pix of my old set of plates. When I took photos for my teacup collection post, I snapped a few of my dishes. This is the first set I bought for living on my own, and I am still in love with it. It's a bit too feminine for Randy, and it's not dishwasher safe, but I still like to whip it out for dessert, or when I have a girlfriend over for lunch. It's very similar to Tracy Porter's Evelyn collection, but it was made by Zrike.

My glasses were part of Rachel Ashwell's Target Collection from a few years ago. I passed them up a few times, and then when they went on clearance (I think it was $5 for a set of 4...and they came in a cute wooden tray), I couldn't resist!

That's my show 'n' tell for the day! If you ever feel the urge to participate in a show 'n' tell session, feel free to e-mail your photos to SoPickinCute@live.com, and if you don't mind having them shared on the blog, then be sure to give permission in your e-mail.

Mold - No. Moulding - Yes!

2009-09-17T05:02:00.000-07:00

(Home Sweet Home)

(Luphia Loves)

Grace's Place

2009-09-14T07:18:00.000-07:00

Isn't this little girl's room inspiring?! It just puts me in the decorating mood. Not that it takes much to motivate me in that department, but I'm just in love with this space! I love that chandelier, the vintage pieces, and color choices - such as the blue used on the armoire, against the pink. Great combo! There isn't anything I don't like about this space. I found it on little pumpkin grace - so check it out for more inspiration, and to see photos of the adorable bedroom occupant!

Images: little pumpkin grace

Collection Affection

2009-09-14T05:58:00.000-07:00

Meet Christina! She blogs over at Full House, and I guarantee that you'll be hooked after reading one post about her twins or triplets, her shopping excursions, or design loves. She has great taste! I mean, just look at that piano. And those dresses! A few posts back on the original blog, I requested some photos of your collections, and Christina is the first participant. She has a gorgeous collection of vintage dresses. I really want to shop with this lady - she finds the best stuff! So thanks a ton for the photos, Christina - and the rest of you really need to check out Full House. Be prepared to "ooh and ahh" or crack a smile!

Peekin' on Pickin' - Jenny and Aaron's Place

2009-09-11T07:08:00.000-07:00

I believe this sign was painted for a bakery - with very good taste (obviously!). Jenny Heid from Everyday is a Holiday is an amazingly talented artist - along with her boyfriend, Aaron. Their creations are just adorable, and you could own your very own masterpiece from their online shop! I am in love with this sign, and if I ever get to fulfill my dream of designing a bakery, you can bet I'll be putting in a custom order for an "open" and "closed" sign. Sooooo cute!

I generally don't begin a house tour with the bathroom, but this is the sweetest room I've ever seen! I love the stripes on the wall, and I'm eyeing those pretty towels.

Just a cute lil' setup!

I love the idea of a different shabby chic-ish paper in each box. And just look at the cute little cakes!

Here's some more striped cuteness! I love the sign. I need to ask Jenny if it's one of her masterpieces, or just a great find.

Now this is one of her masterpieces, and one that I like very much. I have a really bad sweet tooth, and I love to bake.

If you've spent any time on etsy, then I'm sure you have run across the "Keep Calm and Carry On" signs. Isn't this the greatest twist ever on that saying?!

Isn't the bedding sweet?! It reminds me of this. Carlos is pretty cute too!

And that my friends, brings the first house tour (at my new blog address) to a close. Jenny has a bunch of adorable photos of her home and work on her flickr page...I would do some more sharing, but obviously I need to cut back on photos a bit, so I don't have to start a third blog any time soon! Thanks a bunch for the photos, Jenny!

Takin' Care of Business

2009-09-10T07:14:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my blog! If you happen to be a new visitor, then please check out my original So Pickin' Cute for an idea of what you can expect at this new address. If you want to make my day, you can become a Pickin' Cute Fan (follower), and leave plenty of comments! My new blog friend, Christina said that it's like Christmas every time she receives a new comment - and I couldn't agree more! I also love finding out about your blogs through your usernames.

Oh! Also, I requested collection photos in a recent post, and am still very interested in receiving those at SoPickinCute@live.com when you get around to it. I know at least a few of you were considering participating, so I'll just post them as they trickle in. I'm looking forward to a fresh start on So Pickin' Cute (continued)!

~Abby