tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74337955122229438672024-03-20T22:24:52.988-04:00Aspirations of a Southern HousewifeSouthern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.comBlogger191125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-48450215743459483792010-06-12T10:33:00.002-04:002010-06-12T10:38:29.992-04:00Taking a HiatusThis Southern Housewife is taking a bit of a break (obviously). I have lost some perspective about what's really important in my life and need to take some time to evaluate.<br /><br />Hugs,<br />EmmieSouthern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com124tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-47233306144738636222010-04-28T07:20:00.005-04:002010-04-28T07:47:36.683-04:00Digging in the Dirt: Contributing to Earth DayBetter later than never, I bring you my Earth Day contributions- or rather, my focus on sustainability. I have made a concerted effort to reduce the number of "bad things" I have or contribute to our Mother Earth.<br /><br />This summer, it started with our chairs. Our cushions were beyond repair- and while thick- not the nicest quality. Mr. Southern and I had several discussions- he wanted to just buy a whole new set. I argued that no one would want the chairs without cushions and I couldn't see sending them to a landfill just because of cushions. Even though new cushions were nearly as expensive as a whole new set.<br /><br />Several test runs of cushions later, we found these fabulous Sunbrella ones from <a href="http://www.homedecorators.com/">Home Decorators Collection</a> (if you, like me, had turned your nose up at HDC in the past, you should check them out again. I was surprised- ok, shocked- to recognize several of their decorative accents. And very reasonably priced!!).<br /><br />Back to the chairs. Clearly, we were test driving the look, as the plastic wrap is still on the second chair. And if I were totally Earth Friendly, I'm sure the cushions would be made of hemp or something, but I'm trying! I will say that Sunbrella is worth the extra cost. The water beads up nicely, I can brush off the pollen, and the color gives the porch a nice punch.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj-jVOaq9TJ9dGAjlTrSk6RlEyhjdSzdGJ6lPmi_EfUJJl8jN-nWaH0OMVqRTAqWZexTqjoyNJHY1Iercx2msno6FFpq-L0T_5BgwGALO5nMCDt5reDmXkzmCH12h8OiPQj61gvUTIrJt6/s1600/DSC03958.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj-jVOaq9TJ9dGAjlTrSk6RlEyhjdSzdGJ6lPmi_EfUJJl8jN-nWaH0OMVqRTAqWZexTqjoyNJHY1Iercx2msno6FFpq-L0T_5BgwGALO5nMCDt5reDmXkzmCH12h8OiPQj61gvUTIrJt6/s400/DSC03958.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465146208818001138" border="0" /></a><br />Phase two of the project will be sanding and repainting the chairs.<br /><br />In the garden (aka yard), I prefer Organic solutions to the bevy of chemicals. To be honest, this started because of Tilghman, our dog who likes to eat weeds. Not grass- just the weeds. So it makes treating the backyard quite challenging. (Unfortunately, he also likes the organic fertilizers- so I'm fertilizing, watering, and keeping him out of the yard).<br /><br />As any gardener will tell you, the easiest way to cut down on chemicals is to buy low-maintenance plants. I've learned this the hard way and am now brutal about my selection. Usually this comes about by buying a sampling of plants, killing half of them, and buying more of the ones that managed to stay alive. While I adore roses, I'm sticking with the Knock-Out variety, until I improve my green thumb. Here are my knock out roses I planted last year.<br /><br />The first is the Sunny Knock-Out, planted late in the season.I was a little worried they would "take" but looking great! And the rose has a lovely scent. So far, totally disease-free!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEEI9Hmo-AxOZ0Jj20RnibnlCbiUiqG55ZwZIrbMMscq6FSVXOmioaz2KLke9qKNMzWhpYE8Jp-gKD8A-ZfvS0jP_RPGfYK_F8sNnqqRq8KEF8rMVcg-HOv1HXxv6H4BjLI2SaUuH81-xH/s1600/DSC03959.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEEI9Hmo-AxOZ0Jj20RnibnlCbiUiqG55ZwZIrbMMscq6FSVXOmioaz2KLke9qKNMzWhpYE8Jp-gKD8A-ZfvS0jP_RPGfYK_F8sNnqqRq8KEF8rMVcg-HOv1HXxv6H4BjLI2SaUuH81-xH/s400/DSC03959.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465146219203953682" border="0" /></a><br />Here's the double-knock outs in pink- they are now a profusion of blooms- but this is what it looked like last week. We also have some residual daylillies underneath that probably need to be moved and some creeping phlox (light blue flowers), which I adore. Makes a great groundcover under the roses. It's probably getting a bit out of control though and the roses could use a trim?<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsPCQXG3DM2fecZ1VIGPoPGjf9wkryCeiz1p55W_dmEGfjUDlFgzGdD3AE2EGkwTDJ-HYVitLCcLYOgupAk1j-8JB73smGcl9DN5OLASLaHDGrVZNM2kYnnBThDZeAJdYYK7SIfB7u3QEN/s1600/DSC03961.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsPCQXG3DM2fecZ1VIGPoPGjf9wkryCeiz1p55W_dmEGfjUDlFgzGdD3AE2EGkwTDJ-HYVitLCcLYOgupAk1j-8JB73smGcl9DN5OLASLaHDGrVZNM2kYnnBThDZeAJdYYK7SIfB7u3QEN/s400/DSC03961.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465146226919744450" border="0" /></a><br />To the right of the roses is our mammoth holly bush cluster. We, and the previous owners, have had landscape plans done in the backyard, and both teams said to eliminate the hollies. Yes, they require trimming (and are well past the contained stage) but other than that, they require no work. Lovely scented flowers at the start of Spring, no black spot, no fungus, impervious to insects and Tilghman's marking... what more can you ask for? I can handle a little trimming.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPCMWNqeKoLSlRJ6q5E9XMQjv0_ZQIk0kR5RLvsw6VmC71rlP5qiwSEjAgYW-PdrKodtdEQE9UzDaa5F0qTGWrZSXmePdtuiTG-I7z9sB88uhQ0gPloM2Bu0gVMqKqWp6nX8sIgvb2sKE6/s1600/DSC03965.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPCMWNqeKoLSlRJ6q5E9XMQjv0_ZQIk0kR5RLvsw6VmC71rlP5qiwSEjAgYW-PdrKodtdEQE9UzDaa5F0qTGWrZSXmePdtuiTG-I7z9sB88uhQ0gPloM2Bu0gVMqKqWp6nX8sIgvb2sKE6/s400/DSC03965.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465146235808286946" border="0" /></a>Certainly better than the grass, which I keep trying to convince Mr. Southern to let me get rid of. <br /><br />Total change of topic... I was in Puerto Rico again this past week- which contriburted to my slacker posting/commenting- so I thought I'd share with you the beautiful view from my room (the rest of the trip, I was in the convention center... not such a pretty view!).<br /><br />Very cool fort of some sort on the property, that I think would make for fabulous photos...<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih1kQ-IwVMUiu7d6Ca48h_I0Om8NnnnfR5mVMYqASYyt8fiReGWszGcrHwOp_TI-_JZRmm17FUngscnbvOwtOBqITsnm-15jCQ3CMFgZgmJEIUQNKbPjfMPTvFrzKBmyWxg0AEzYzsmBZy/s1600/DSC03968.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 313px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih1kQ-IwVMUiu7d6Ca48h_I0Om8NnnnfR5mVMYqASYyt8fiReGWszGcrHwOp_TI-_JZRmm17FUngscnbvOwtOBqITsnm-15jCQ3CMFgZgmJEIUQNKbPjfMPTvFrzKBmyWxg0AEzYzsmBZy/s400/DSC03968.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465147062594001298" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The Condado section of San Juan, and the Conrad where we stayed the last trip.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl1FFrWMoHVAAgeD6foAp4OrLB_DiN9OgRo8utlwu8i1i2dtZ67z0lMUAG-YhOpr2WijbvR6k1kihq-T2CmvYwTn1lt60kzz70vLqKa6NLWrSJmZSRipc3qWArNIbpk2vNHBTmzsINVXWu/s1600/DSC03969.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl1FFrWMoHVAAgeD6foAp4OrLB_DiN9OgRo8utlwu8i1i2dtZ67z0lMUAG-YhOpr2WijbvR6k1kihq-T2CmvYwTn1lt60kzz70vLqKa6NLWrSJmZSRipc3qWArNIbpk2vNHBTmzsINVXWu/s400/DSC03969.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465147076138633602" border="0" /></a><br />And my attempt at artsy photography. I love the ocean in the morning.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUmYBKrhikz-n9JEVlAmdlmUoM0MsI4bZSfo9Ff-2PyL7DLalUESRFugXlvyojFIJsyQvXY_2o7-sQJof6FdxCG1LSzc6hKmgInl-MLCnVFu83Pl7_sRpFTH4MUKgcRoMfv0RIis6g-TFz/s1600/DSC03971.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUmYBKrhikz-n9JEVlAmdlmUoM0MsI4bZSfo9Ff-2PyL7DLalUESRFugXlvyojFIJsyQvXY_2o7-sQJof6FdxCG1LSzc6hKmgInl-MLCnVFu83Pl7_sRpFTH4MUKgcRoMfv0RIis6g-TFz/s400/DSC03971.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465147090068820434" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwdgl_zstJw11K4nHkQarfdDIkJE4PipSQB45chp4CfnKWiRCwkQIVa8QRViSjMFamvxTAIgv5TGEcfVh735o1S87i3DZPF5Su9v2V98nQwyjhpnyi2F4QdiiRhaXg2Is-_EItfFSEEjy_/s1600/DSC03970.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwdgl_zstJw11K4nHkQarfdDIkJE4PipSQB45chp4CfnKWiRCwkQIVa8QRViSjMFamvxTAIgv5TGEcfVh735o1S87i3DZPF5Su9v2V98nQwyjhpnyi2F4QdiiRhaXg2Is-_EItfFSEEjy_/s400/DSC03970.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465147081421478466" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Hope y'all have a fabulous week!! Looking forward to catching up.<br /><br />-EmmieSouthern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-59786246286776387512010-04-21T07:35:00.004-04:002010-04-21T08:01:39.795-04:00Relaxing in Shade<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbulz7g7utD5vEmBC2CcPifPCS7kXNfCjn8fuy_yhOMVVbL-xAVmA5RGjd95MTnnCj88PRSu2Q0_ScGIZ0nhkaI90pk78mW84L7jnCwuEbaJ2nUvVQuwIazQC9_THKIfFj_AmBNx1UtPMe/s1600/DSC03953.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbulz7g7utD5vEmBC2CcPifPCS7kXNfCjn8fuy_yhOMVVbL-xAVmA5RGjd95MTnnCj88PRSu2Q0_ScGIZ0nhkaI90pk78mW84L7jnCwuEbaJ2nUvVQuwIazQC9_THKIfFj_AmBNx1UtPMe/s400/DSC03953.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462557429366881234" border="0" /></a><br />I just received my green and white striped shirt from this-- <a href="http://www.caitlincreer.com/2010/03/giveaway-from-shade-clothing.html">Caitlin Creer Interiors: Giveaway from Shade Clothing</a> and had to share.<br /><br />You'll note I clearly love the shirt based on the <a href="http://southernaspirations.blogspot.com/2010/01/shopping-temptations-and-my-only.html">hanger</a> I gave it.<br /><br />One of the best parts? It's just $21.50. The shirt is 48% polyester, 48% viscose, and 4% spandex, which gives it a nice fit. It is a bit form-fitting, so just an FYI (or TMI) to those with more than their fair share of "girls." I got a Medium but may try a Large in the next shirt I buy. It worked fabulously under my khaki jacket yesterday!<br /><br />Great details, like a wider "cuff" at the end of the 3/4 sleeve.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxEbABapLHxee76ix4Fx9t4b8xsdNAloLzAsd2Xbwhlw8h9EU5PGohd_WtCwm4tZIKce0njrBJrhb4LCFVkEPjOmC_uUQbYjrzIMWV6mlbHvd-pKFpTp8M4sg3XKFnKmYoCTIRZwi2xVXz/s1600/DSC03955.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxEbABapLHxee76ix4Fx9t4b8xsdNAloLzAsd2Xbwhlw8h9EU5PGohd_WtCwm4tZIKce0njrBJrhb4LCFVkEPjOmC_uUQbYjrzIMWV6mlbHvd-pKFpTp8M4sg3XKFnKmYoCTIRZwi2xVXz/s400/DSC03955.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462557423396504674" border="0" /></a>And no tag- THANK YOU!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEoDmm6ICLgcSmKILtTPyDQGfDEgY1hw_d_0eBj29CYMMZ2jYAVVXReQSoyM6cFFkSQbrim-uwVfor9AQWOs01hgYkcFDYvvFswu9R1wBmWApeP7RSnj1yKJ7dL_kPEknE3OgGFZSefTS1/s1600/DSC03957.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEoDmm6ICLgcSmKILtTPyDQGfDEgY1hw_d_0eBj29CYMMZ2jYAVVXReQSoyM6cFFkSQbrim-uwVfor9AQWOs01hgYkcFDYvvFswu9R1wBmWApeP7RSnj1yKJ7dL_kPEknE3OgGFZSefTS1/s400/DSC03957.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462557413224648050" border="0" /></a>You can also see the great finish of the hems here.<br /><br />This is the perfect shirt to celebrate Spring, which I see everywhere! Makes me so happy. I had to stop and take pictures of these cherry trees at my library....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPm59BkGsvXoGmxO93QVaGm8SreKyfGBalfZgOgBDeWzuJPuHErm_eTYFwZcKkP3k94Vel2FGlKAfeIx4MOvFFwhk3mW2am_wLTIom5ahvfQhVWeLc-K3GMZ_eAsMePG1ZcHeZ0MIEJrAQ/s1600/DSC03947.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPm59BkGsvXoGmxO93QVaGm8SreKyfGBalfZgOgBDeWzuJPuHErm_eTYFwZcKkP3k94Vel2FGlKAfeIx4MOvFFwhk3mW2am_wLTIom5ahvfQhVWeLc-K3GMZ_eAsMePG1ZcHeZ0MIEJrAQ/s400/DSC03947.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462559011480620466" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGrca8i3xiHIqOj-daxud68q15-2RexVZsW5Qe3U8OXiuwO4AHXmbnGED8Zq56GRf5tkZnHBl4eWkxD48Gx50y7NAE-0FDCiDpIif9KmckPSnotDficib0DfYHs2PAzBdzxQoQK3hEyKJK/s1600/DSC03946.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGrca8i3xiHIqOj-daxud68q15-2RexVZsW5Qe3U8OXiuwO4AHXmbnGED8Zq56GRf5tkZnHBl4eWkxD48Gx50y7NAE-0FDCiDpIif9KmckPSnotDficib0DfYHs2PAzBdzxQoQK3hEyKJK/s400/DSC03946.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462559005209095522" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOsglCPZxDsNhv9ssVP676EfgmJ48iv39wsnvF887KucwTfQsV9r0iR9lNJv1hur5B2Zp1r55c43VfFXlRMnHTxXAgAGM2KJRFzeWot8ZQTMfTvlFq_Wytu7SOXSVGB8bS4CcMrZwKlYM-/s1600/DSC03942.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOsglCPZxDsNhv9ssVP676EfgmJ48iv39wsnvF887KucwTfQsV9r0iR9lNJv1hur5B2Zp1r55c43VfFXlRMnHTxXAgAGM2KJRFzeWot8ZQTMfTvlFq_Wytu7SOXSVGB8bS4CcMrZwKlYM-/s400/DSC03942.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462558999816489426" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Have a beautiful week!<br /><br />EmmieSouthern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-49297553119398621502010-04-14T09:36:00.005-04:002010-04-14T10:27:29.241-04:00Designers' "Split Personalities"As I've gotten older- or gotten to know myself better- I've realized that in my personal interior design, I need muted colors-- a sense of calm, and a nod toward minimalism (ok, scratch minimalism, let's say streamlined). While I love lots of bold colors and energizing spaces, I am too much of a stress case to live in an environment like that. But that doesn't stop me from loving those spaces.<br /><br />Perhaps because of this dilemma, I imagine it must be great fun as a designer to express or illustrate so many different sides or styles of design. Sure, there's something oddly reassuring about a so-called trademark style. For example, there are some rooms that scream, "yes, that is a <a href="http://milesredd.com/">Miles Redd</a> room." (though a glance through his portfolio may challenge some of our notions). <a href="http://www.phoebehoward.net/">Phoebe Howard </a>rooms are very Phoebe to me- and I'm not sure I'd want it any other way (I LOVE Phoebe).<br /><br />But here are a few examples of what I'm calling "Designer Split Personality" and in no way am I trying to be disrespectful. Admittedly, this is less about true styles or types, like midcentury modern, traditional, or my least-favorite term, transitional, but rather about the <em>feel</em> of a room.<br /><br />First example- <a href="http://www.sarahrichardsondesign.com/">Sarah Richardson Design</a>. I admit I had my own ideas of what I thought constituted Sarah Richardson Design. On the edge of rustic, a country European feel.<br /><br /><br /><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.sarahrichardsondesign.com/_images/portfolio/sarahs-cottage/master-bedroom/image1.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 406px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 538px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.sarahrichardsondesign.com/_images/portfolio/sarahs-cottage/master-bedroom/image1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /></p><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.sarahrichardsondesign.com/_images/portfolio/sarahs-cottage/dining-room/image1.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 406px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 538px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.sarahrichardsondesign.com/_images/portfolio/sarahs-cottage/dining-room/image1.jpg" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.sarahrichardsondesign.com/_images/portfolio/sarahs-house/kitchen/image1.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 406px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 538px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.sarahrichardsondesign.com/_images/portfolio/sarahs-house/kitchen/image1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />But then I saw these rooms. Did anyone else stop to take a second look, at these?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.sarahrichardsondesign.com/_images/portfolio/city-chic-lounge/living-room1/image2.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 404px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.sarahrichardsondesign.com/_images/portfolio/city-chic-lounge/living-room1/image2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.sarahrichardsondesign.com/_images/portfolio/city-chic-lounge/living-room1/image1.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 338px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.sarahrichardsondesign.com/_images/portfolio/city-chic-lounge/living-room1/image1.jpg" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.sarahrichardsondesign.com/_images/portfolio/contemporary-century-bath/bathroom2/image1.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 404px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 539px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.sarahrichardsondesign.com/_images/portfolio/contemporary-century-bath/bathroom2/image1.jpg" border="0" /></a>Amanda Nisbet also provides a lot of variety. Yes, lots of color pops in her room with fun and funky...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj81YGGeqGwBRkVGjrUh0YvL9ojbR5kNQlsl5CGGoZljl-F2oNqhKkO8zCJ6jOf77E8XboI9uZMKlmTNTGvP3C71rSUTeB3_qjNba3f8wpmZXX5ZIXOAwHn56qNml6Stun2vrrOi5348udN/s1600/and1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459805775296547282" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 255px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj81YGGeqGwBRkVGjrUh0YvL9ojbR5kNQlsl5CGGoZljl-F2oNqhKkO8zCJ6jOf77E8XboI9uZMKlmTNTGvP3C71rSUTeB3_qjNba3f8wpmZXX5ZIXOAwHn56qNml6Stun2vrrOi5348udN/s400/and1.jpg" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh04o6k45GRzeXiEdmTGh5x6jqm-C_1_y5dTRQk6x8qkt1l9ffmKe-HAEmV_eMLb5KOHOyVnUd38lzeLRv65uobLbvGp-GTLWR45pNcbl2CBdbxYjegvKR8cfS2n_mcmrKiERQUKmUTzu35/s1600/and4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459805788325910050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 290px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh04o6k45GRzeXiEdmTGh5x6jqm-C_1_y5dTRQk6x8qkt1l9ffmKe-HAEmV_eMLb5KOHOyVnUd38lzeLRv65uobLbvGp-GTLWR45pNcbl2CBdbxYjegvKR8cfS2n_mcmrKiERQUKmUTzu35/s400/and4.jpg" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtUwJ3Q6ivxCMkygKM-MkjrvbYzQH0sx-oCUwevvC92PqQ6p-S2KpjesJCSj5Qyw8zTdVly4q2PWAhz1ujztq9hqACYRJF_1b7upwvUA7K3FDP3hICA5L9IeBv0ylc5FaFA8znDHYDXz6N/s1600/AND2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459805777033681746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 296px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtUwJ3Q6ivxCMkygKM-MkjrvbYzQH0sx-oCUwevvC92PqQ6p-S2KpjesJCSj5Qyw8zTdVly4q2PWAhz1ujztq9hqACYRJF_1b7upwvUA7K3FDP3hICA5L9IeBv0ylc5FaFA8znDHYDXz6N/s400/AND2.jpg" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBGT_4E6nOSDSdO6VkoZImCr7THhEwP9Z0Sr7LBXLozmfoLYjW95qzO8KgYBD2Lec9QgAiIP8K5f2rI8SUxtcLm0XtkBkbD4bogzdE4Yj3YM4Ifbda_7V9EHGGMMF3mvMwygqYmuSWCHT2/s1600/and3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459805782367090514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 329px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBGT_4E6nOSDSdO6VkoZImCr7THhEwP9Z0Sr7LBXLozmfoLYjW95qzO8KgYBD2Lec9QgAiIP8K5f2rI8SUxtcLm0XtkBkbD4bogzdE4Yj3YM4Ifbda_7V9EHGGMMF3mvMwygqYmuSWCHT2/s400/and3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />But she does elegant glamor just as well...<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgik5ko79QP4jszu1rRYOalkUSYWA6y0SwXeEXW36dTAMQ0gK0_UpdjRbUXGdl-Zz88eh8QE_lDfLNOGq7hRaiCk8glN3tEu2AjYcWQlu4A0YsuWZA09YyFJ5Dq_o0hmlzRZexa6t3p6f1y/s1600/and8.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459807929429407202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 295px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgik5ko79QP4jszu1rRYOalkUSYWA6y0SwXeEXW36dTAMQ0gK0_UpdjRbUXGdl-Zz88eh8QE_lDfLNOGq7hRaiCk8glN3tEu2AjYcWQlu4A0YsuWZA09YyFJ5Dq_o0hmlzRZexa6t3p6f1y/s400/and8.jpg" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUiiy1w1jmI9uQMuAoTbstonUR6mr4VKVvsBoe3srQpj-kJkLPcH3lnCb9PtchXqGuE7Ry2PEcbMlSWAlVY9A8kMt4ZSXgn6jXq-LHDn4q1-UwNePjEdrXKLhKyFMNEyDV7NPtKnMOmfVC/s1600/and10.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459807934873605506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 258px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUiiy1w1jmI9uQMuAoTbstonUR6mr4VKVvsBoe3srQpj-kJkLPcH3lnCb9PtchXqGuE7Ry2PEcbMlSWAlVY9A8kMt4ZSXgn6jXq-LHDn4q1-UwNePjEdrXKLhKyFMNEyDV7NPtKnMOmfVC/s400/and10.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYxXMl56RP9FvEA8IQ9mBsZ1crhgHuX8h-fd5xHoIp0lQhBXUyVLQj8GdokLUJOxTo-eogFHXqZbsMnFlH65TpJpFuxCtuy9HXhNly5vZyl4V273jgZ-0BLhAFSeqI8BlPPLLXjqqh9hwD/s1600/and5.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459807914813094050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 350px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYxXMl56RP9FvEA8IQ9mBsZ1crhgHuX8h-fd5xHoIp0lQhBXUyVLQj8GdokLUJOxTo-eogFHXqZbsMnFlH65TpJpFuxCtuy9HXhNly5vZyl4V273jgZ-0BLhAFSeqI8BlPPLLXjqqh9hwD/s400/and5.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpZmAl1S9U1bat0oCpS_DQDq3A-DdWUgmRXOLwV6kX0Vl5nsrnj4E7nrHkdPWwkaLLS9MFdSb2uO3Vuj4V9smWGZbjEnldYWkPGi7Q_ux4mJ_twslK37l3Mq3cNutj3st263XPXNkYUKhE/s1600/and6.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459807919123886162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 295px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpZmAl1S9U1bat0oCpS_DQDq3A-DdWUgmRXOLwV6kX0Vl5nsrnj4E7nrHkdPWwkaLLS9MFdSb2uO3Vuj4V9smWGZbjEnldYWkPGi7Q_ux4mJ_twslK37l3Mq3cNutj3st263XPXNkYUKhE/s400/and6.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZmA2sw8VQw5qfGRAF05Yp4av7KYoBb8LpG4iv8GyFm6c6h4gA-BhUtjtmQ5QUZaX4iUPeXiM3LcNmg7ZK3hLp87d1fWimJ2l2CpMRQ4UOR-cO80mcYYUOoQ5qAsLWpIOVGkV-QN0gs17r/s1600/and7.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459806992846467298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 287px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZmA2sw8VQw5qfGRAF05Yp4av7KYoBb8LpG4iv8GyFm6c6h4gA-BhUtjtmQ5QUZaX4iUPeXiM3LcNmg7ZK3hLp87d1fWimJ2l2CpMRQ4UOR-cO80mcYYUOoQ5qAsLWpIOVGkV-QN0gs17r/s400/and7.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />I also have very definitive ideas about Jamie Drake's designs. COLOR and very hip.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEJqDVwm_eAgylFoN2TR-oUI0w8rtrbEpAco8sQovX7AFQybrergBq7FDwS8XK5M2hBZdsEktSIMrCX1Bj0kw5sWJqezNSyRLlqIUK_WYDyuy693akolW5NTNSnecwDmDm6m6JWVdIcPOa/s400/Jamie-Drake-Horizontal-Bed-.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 346px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEJqDVwm_eAgylFoN2TR-oUI0w8rtrbEpAco8sQovX7AFQybrergBq7FDwS8XK5M2hBZdsEktSIMrCX1Bj0kw5sWJqezNSyRLlqIUK_WYDyuy693akolW5NTNSnecwDmDm6m6JWVdIcPOa/s400/Jamie-Drake-Horizontal-Bed-.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpG2cwWtSrUpJ09CHjG80aLzTnv07aTjtadXe3sPclkZHWpRL5oBGHOm_21sFa5mDRKXlnxZZ23VVCMKJfX0lADYITTiksPlcJ7KS5qVszJbyna0nbdEwfoOZZrFGIbkRoJ2mqsq3OYDCJ/s400/jamie+drake.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 313px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpG2cwWtSrUpJ09CHjG80aLzTnv07aTjtadXe3sPclkZHWpRL5oBGHOm_21sFa5mDRKXlnxZZ23VVCMKJfX0lADYITTiksPlcJ7KS5qVszJbyna0nbdEwfoOZZrFGIbkRoJ2mqsq3OYDCJ/s400/jamie+drake.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/ol-images/chicago/uploads/2007-10-12-drakeorange.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 424px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 516px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/ol-images/chicago/uploads/2007-10-12-drakeorange.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459992298960205426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 307px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkRhaSDgN8-p8nvwVXy0vPQmxEU4NIvP99xj7hxezXLu-HS5qowXEwJivGeEzE0KZ6u7j4vV2ATVxhceM4MIHdGdBya51_H-u09NdTmvi5XsiD_XOGB1VdCWf1H4ucsxFK-2e18K5EhHB2/s400/JD1.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><p></p>But check out these more muted rooms... the first illustrating a definite shift in style.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459992316710598226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 250px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheUj8nXUmi3ynyenAawTrote_-4CF-rDC5sD-5sfdMskDZg21OQ3N8UTz7zEg73fP9WxjuAZEOInQGzG94aHUv8DYpIRlYgy3JEJfvTVz0idUAm14K-gx93tTMQ52B6KkdpBech6mhwyKy/s400/jd4.JPG" border="0" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGsUxGxRUCM_17kupNuyNYc07-55f4NzTPbNdLTn7j9nj45E4rNLUlkStO_Biuwdb82Vymdjmc-hnZv9Ah7du1CrdE6jUmRQSjc_Q0reWeC04c_jxcycnrOL_ZKCwCKwoCMXPkWKOlRDNU/s1600/jd5.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459992323341851426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 250px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGsUxGxRUCM_17kupNuyNYc07-55f4NzTPbNdLTn7j9nj45E4rNLUlkStO_Biuwdb82Vymdjmc-hnZv9Ah7du1CrdE6jUmRQSjc_Q0reWeC04c_jxcycnrOL_ZKCwCKwoCMXPkWKOlRDNU/s400/jd5.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpmJj3_FUHclNg0fS6DWyatNFd9kyA7ZQ79jvWurL3GHC52DRxuvzHjQybeI90iuWjwexX-LkYPvBHo9B9bxHNPgsimxEuddC9grISVSmh5wHvt4lgVelz3u1-2iBoiCCI1uC7XlbKKRsl/s1600/jd3.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459992312370187490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 306px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpmJj3_FUHclNg0fS6DWyatNFd9kyA7ZQ79jvWurL3GHC52DRxuvzHjQybeI90iuWjwexX-LkYPvBHo9B9bxHNPgsimxEuddC9grISVSmh5wHvt4lgVelz3u1-2iBoiCCI1uC7XlbKKRsl/s400/jd3.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfpO8fQ0mda-OuplzHlZu8bcQaLhyphenhyphen6vbEYoBShXzR80cGE5GpqBjpNpP8NzBPm1Z4ZVQjK6cciBVsoo7sHQmZgizUIqPA7zF0AjlhhQ3lT3tq_vnBg580P0fZYdxkWR5_nGAV1ZorhPtzI/s1600/jd2.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459992302045279282" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 250px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfpO8fQ0mda-OuplzHlZu8bcQaLhyphenhyphen6vbEYoBShXzR80cGE5GpqBjpNpP8NzBPm1Z4ZVQjK6cciBVsoo7sHQmZgizUIqPA7zF0AjlhhQ3lT3tq_vnBg580P0fZYdxkWR5_nGAV1ZorhPtzI/s400/jd2.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><p><a href="http://www.ruthiesommers.com/">Ruthie Sommers</a> portfolio is all over the board (pardon the pun) with some spaces I adore, and others are just not my favorite.</p><p>She has dark bold rooms with a "global" feel...<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459819641233761074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 322px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFRexr5id5A5niqrvzOWAT6c7Cg8WNUITlXkdhRnsMMBitBYn8DJtknLpDNX21SuCLi8-ZGWLnl_Qgb9r8B7HJyiQ8tesz7WYekCuh01DvSQmJapAnLMz_sNghZ02WO9VWrnkbusooPbtB/s400/rs9.jpg" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459819128640820850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 330px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiukoav8uvpf5R6PL9NTBx4veTUPqhuSDzJr1E29do_0b5aTC8vVcvGgKu_SjOyFYLqj3trtDii8AfilxVD1DRbQ7ISMlRVDpCjbzIAKQKXo_6u0HdFD7L5xwhKZElA9h1RoBkhtMzM-pK/s400/rs5.jpg" border="0" /></p><br /><p>to streamlined updated traditional..</p><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459819121753076274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 332px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnsJgy12o2ftU5Ijjg_dsW2ALGySRdM-MeBn59g8O8XYjgOHofSIjT-jj5kUKv-T9aU-6tZuLFo0PoRiB5QBoAt8eOPbXedmeNbh_VnySEBf5EXLiqHMf-ETb591XFv_Z6dYctCPHC5gGU/s400/rs4.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459819119667577090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 314px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8PfR2naZyR26_477A5NnYs8an4e9aBLG8sUJc70XmuYDpJO9_oHUfK1hfbN7-BuUSEyO31X-ooyGfhkD0tYajoHhApAtDpDd5_VfNE0CdaAJghFmT1cYJMeD8JYbbBUUkXNRV3UZvJ5HD/s400/rs3.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459819636083999346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 329px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvcJbbXehioC_L7p6jCRnjS8FfJaII5J-tLXRB5u_mHZ1I47NKt2G46c_5Xqn-yx83m5iYsoIKlD-nuyUekOH9yvDuVaAjlZEWH5DJHC-PGAZe1_w5qWa66-mmIoJWiKVqeuEaFH4xpmZC/s400/rs6.jpg" border="0" />And Romantic "country" or European style.</p><br /><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWb7_lMG_8iJ-2HuyY5hTyQVsid8UuXtAlvopHBQ1orN_SM1WfyvicKmnuSiIfeoEawOr0GcoVa507Rt78kueNqgbUUPj6lqtrS5FCfmgqZY-_63hgrY6m-iiROV2QNxfVJYoGovVvOgFV/s1600/rs12.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459819875389851602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 317px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWb7_lMG_8iJ-2HuyY5hTyQVsid8UuXtAlvopHBQ1orN_SM1WfyvicKmnuSiIfeoEawOr0GcoVa507Rt78kueNqgbUUPj6lqtrS5FCfmgqZY-_63hgrY6m-iiROV2QNxfVJYoGovVvOgFV/s400/rs12.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Ws03TNHPUSHmQ3Pb5hYQwPQzI6XGpLmB7Obcum-wDQmDquq1s07QbdG_jKHw0r6fhfi7QPi-GABG1jNd0h9sMAOxX5Ff9NqNfqGSJXrS30jEkT6ZhxkSd6pxvwDnEQO_VB-PSBTEItb3/s1600/rs11.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459819655782403714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 332px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Ws03TNHPUSHmQ3Pb5hYQwPQzI6XGpLmB7Obcum-wDQmDquq1s07QbdG_jKHw0r6fhfi7QPi-GABG1jNd0h9sMAOxX5Ff9NqNfqGSJXrS30jEkT6ZhxkSd6pxvwDnEQO_VB-PSBTEItb3/s400/rs11.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJACOW6h19Lr2f1CRV7dOkHogqek4GZG68qf0UMb6_-Abc_ZUmcjbfH3oRUmZPI8J14iaEvvOLxBiNfKRsq20IbtzqJip5w2C_K5Vlbbp-KQQXHUtrbMRAsINNlobipMbt9QtLInGKU4jr/s1600/rs10.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459819644476273058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 325px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJACOW6h19Lr2f1CRV7dOkHogqek4GZG68qf0UMb6_-Abc_ZUmcjbfH3oRUmZPI8J14iaEvvOLxBiNfKRsq20IbtzqJip5w2C_K5Vlbbp-KQQXHUtrbMRAsINNlobipMbt9QtLInGKU4jr/s400/rs10.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.michaelsmithinc.com/portfolio/">Michael S. Smith</a> differentiates among Beach House, Town Home, and High Rise, which give hints at different styles.<br /><br />The City...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF6o9Zr9egSuDH2O7pvtVvvBbT8lyXML3iBuKhMsUCmQrHHhTH9_j46wJdeQ5SBoTUuxnBYzYgvFTFxvae7W74VUjbP2m8P4nq-vNqw4jJdP0y_auDZ8iVzp0O7Fqg0jlLXR0a1QDM-PZm/s1600/msmith1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459812661232597314" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF6o9Zr9egSuDH2O7pvtVvvBbT8lyXML3iBuKhMsUCmQrHHhTH9_j46wJdeQ5SBoTUuxnBYzYgvFTFxvae7W74VUjbP2m8P4nq-vNqw4jJdP0y_auDZ8iVzp0O7Fqg0jlLXR0a1QDM-PZm/s400/msmith1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7872T9xJmsq506APRc__L1H4JBbRJyq_b7I594TtC3XrVt32aHo6EJ8njhjBbJIrKjL4KUaSWxk2t0Mr4i-EwVahZtFrm_FzLKl0iC7SOG-OKG5DN3RWJ9GoqQYDa9CGvY05RT1FeTNsd/s1600/msmith2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459812654025547746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7872T9xJmsq506APRc__L1H4JBbRJyq_b7I594TtC3XrVt32aHo6EJ8njhjBbJIrKjL4KUaSWxk2t0Mr4i-EwVahZtFrm_FzLKl0iC7SOG-OKG5DN3RWJ9GoqQYDa9CGvY05RT1FeTNsd/s400/msmith2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6afpuovFUqzf4-k0TQ5oq4iSPAyzsMufd2t1Q7BXfsQ72tlj_041GYqDVx0zGcbiUnI7ZeK8TOLhFpjkGs2CIKzpDjq8uBob2svB0wwQJ2v6dYj250GQzXGjln2xMw_3MpKTKjswfDcrl/s1600/msmith3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459812651124214290" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 314px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6afpuovFUqzf4-k0TQ5oq4iSPAyzsMufd2t1Q7BXfsQ72tlj_041GYqDVx0zGcbiUnI7ZeK8TOLhFpjkGs2CIKzpDjq8uBob2svB0wwQJ2v6dYj250GQzXGjln2xMw_3MpKTKjswfDcrl/s400/msmith3.jpg" border="0" /></a>And The Country<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4d27-8D6ptVnXtkGQG5anymEN2Tm4aCTSVJsMfqiA9LD5zMhY50gGOZml6fFKR5HvJrJYCBt56dGM_UxS8BGWUjmA1Blhwx0gDImcQDPA9MPnGtK44khaF7M2mtDaZ53D9vJ1rb5nGItO/s1600/smith5.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459812646760959154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 327px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4d27-8D6ptVnXtkGQG5anymEN2Tm4aCTSVJsMfqiA9LD5zMhY50gGOZml6fFKR5HvJrJYCBt56dGM_UxS8BGWUjmA1Blhwx0gDImcQDPA9MPnGtK44khaF7M2mtDaZ53D9vJ1rb5nGItO/s400/smith5.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj678PMyYV54UnN-j1TVMC4_rScskdUB5pHyMMX2VT5QMsf5ib9bAhdHrLpzizfayFq9lI5XiwGyCCxg_RSt2csSG5MKXU_PGTcAZUBZr2qDlSqP8KVcabdtE-20l200jc1qnURTc2HKchV/s1600/msmith6.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459812636922183938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 319px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj678PMyYV54UnN-j1TVMC4_rScskdUB5pHyMMX2VT5QMsf5ib9bAhdHrLpzizfayFq9lI5XiwGyCCxg_RSt2csSG5MKXU_PGTcAZUBZr2qDlSqP8KVcabdtE-20l200jc1qnURTc2HKchV/s400/msmith6.jpg" border="0" /></a></p></div></div></div></div></div><br /><p></p><p>So what do you think? Do you "buy" my theory of different personalities being represented? Can you see consistent themes of each designer throughout their work? Who else would you add to the list?</p><p></p><p>-Emmie</p>Southern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-91638090459855154582010-04-13T07:16:00.003-04:002010-04-13T07:42:52.372-04:00for Friendship<div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.136926752.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_430xN.136926752.jpg" alt="live simply - love generously - care deeply - speak kindly ORIGINAL ART 10x10" width="430" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/signsofmylife">Signs of My Life</a></div><div><br /></div><div>I'm running quite late this morning as I stayed <b>way</b> past my bedtime- <i>on a school night</i>- meeting up with my college roommate. We hadn't seen each other in 11 years but it was just like old times. It's funny how (ideally), spending your first chunk of time away from home, and realizing you're not the smarty-pants you thought you were, with another person from whom you are quite different, can create lasting bonds. J transferred from our college after the first semester, but I treasured our times together.</div><div><br /></div><div>In celebration of friendship, here are a few pieces of art on the topic. Isn't it amazing the diversity and availability of art?</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 377px;" src="http://www.keithmallett.com/yahoo_site_admin/assets/images/girlfriends.60205555_std.JPG" border="0" alt="" /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.keithmallett.com/giclees">Keith Mallett</a></div><div><a href="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.136926752.jpg" target="_blank"></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="width: 425px; top: 18px; left: 17px;" src="http://cdn.dailypainters.com/1258574160/images/scale/scaleimg/475/495/N/0/_2F_images_2F_origs_2F_721_2F__happy_hour_ii___girlfriends_sisters_beach_ocean_daily_oil_painting.jpg" alt=""Happy Hour II" Girlfriends Sisters Beach Ocean daily oil painting -- Heidi Malott" height="424" width="425" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dailypainters.com/paintings/48284/-Happy-Hour-II-Girlfriends-Sisters-Beach-Ocean-daily-oil-painting/Heidi-Malott">Heidi Malott</a></div><div><br /></div><div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.artpostgallery.com/painting-details/transitional/Grey%20-%20Visiting%20with%20a%20Friend%20-%2028x24%20%28fr%29.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 458px; " src="http://www.artpostgallery.com/painting-details/transitional/Grey%20-%20Visiting%20with%20a%20Friend%20-%2028x24%20%28fr%29.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Loren Grey via<a href="http://www.artpostgallery.com/"> Art Post Gallery</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Go call up an old friend!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">-Emmie</div></div></div></div>Southern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-19934529074400657112010-04-09T08:51:00.004-04:002010-04-09T09:18:13.242-04:00When the Cat's Away...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw9Aul21EkHCK45kU9NPWVvUPLdxsyXhod-ENbOrVdRlDWgfhUY39wTEd1pEeBnFrjpueoQ1miBuSTJGkjzayfmfRXw8wIzrCpWJ3TKfDE4OpTErcDZNRbyk-O-Qr-UTTZ9ZpcrZEE3q-b/s1600/DSC03930.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw9Aul21EkHCK45kU9NPWVvUPLdxsyXhod-ENbOrVdRlDWgfhUY39wTEd1pEeBnFrjpueoQ1miBuSTJGkjzayfmfRXw8wIzrCpWJ3TKfDE4OpTErcDZNRbyk-O-Qr-UTTZ9ZpcrZEE3q-b/s400/DSC03930.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5458123593956854866" border="0" /></a><br />Mr. Southern is out of town for work. While this used to happen far more often, his trips have decreased (while mine, on the other hand, have definitely picked up!). While of course I miss him, it is admittedly nice to have a moment of solitaire (if you can call hanging out out with four dogs solitaire).<br /><br />Of course, me in the house unchaperoned with several projects on the agenda is asking for trouble. You see, Mr. Southern is an Engineer. Born into a family of engineers. This means that he does not "measure twice, cut once." This means that he measures three times, walks away from a project in case the measurements change, comes back, measures three or four more times, studies intently, and then cuts. I, on the other hand, am more of an instant-gratification kind of girl, preferring to measure once, and then cut about 50 times to get it right. This applies to just about everything- determining where to plant something, where to hang a picture, hang curtain rods, paint, etc. Clearly his way is better, but it <span style="font-style: italic;">seems</span> to take much longer.<br /><br />Without Mr. Southern's precision, I was free to hang my recent purchases from <a href="http://www.onekingslane.com/">One Kings Lane</a>. I managed to score two of the Anemone botanical prints a few weeks ago after debating with myself whether I needed them or not. I was looking for two square pieces of art and these were a veritable bargain! And it had been a while since I purchased from the gals at OKL.<br /><br />I actually cut out squares from wrapping paper and hung them on the wall so I could determine exactly (read: pretty much) where I wanted them. I am sort-of breaking the art rules, I guess, as neither is really at eye level. Hmm. Here they look a little close together.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI_TVs_WdTxDbTYdnXZ7Kmwsjc-Zl9THNlCWIbzhAeROT6vwFl5gbO4leVzHDDva7wLY4boSJNHE-81JROocsTEHPgQcSjm5o0suoRu19TFOgLTl3KirhYSMUoseg1ZwlcgaoJxoxa-HFW/s1600/DSC03928.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 257px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI_TVs_WdTxDbTYdnXZ7Kmwsjc-Zl9THNlCWIbzhAeROT6vwFl5gbO4leVzHDDva7wLY4boSJNHE-81JROocsTEHPgQcSjm5o0suoRu19TFOgLTl3KirhYSMUoseg1ZwlcgaoJxoxa-HFW/s400/DSC03928.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5458123567544982770" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Unfortunately, I stink at cutting in a straight line so I couldn't show you the white squares on the wall. But here they are hung.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrU4zvC_Ci2l29jJZGKe_giZAr3O6_62B093-Ek1ccaU41EimBDNejIur33K7zgK-OLw3hAjgE9kTHcBteKRyyTA1-9nLy1ZkpdNyvX3xjXIkodOkhnqMmSr4LBZ2EGFwD_-KNKVvYaSAj/s1600/DSC03931.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrU4zvC_Ci2l29jJZGKe_giZAr3O6_62B093-Ek1ccaU41EimBDNejIur33K7zgK-OLw3hAjgE9kTHcBteKRyyTA1-9nLy1ZkpdNyvX3xjXIkodOkhnqMmSr4LBZ2EGFwD_-KNKVvYaSAj/s400/DSC03931.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5458123576399959698" border="0" /></a>Hopefully, this gives you some perspective of the scale. I think it looks OK, what do you think? I could probably add a little more space (there is an inch between the two now) but given that this corner typically houses a dog bed, I didn't want to hang the bottom frame too low.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqejvt0BbseXRsn8krH9hxofSCRPcCzneuDURGs0VVLavpIgPmUH5lvHAYZvqL3rqXzySQyvyW0BJJLkbn9cfh62iixYQxHRI5fyb0WoWTws6dZGpVUtpQdEAvkKSz2AjClNpc08OP_d02/s1600/DSC03932.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqejvt0BbseXRsn8krH9hxofSCRPcCzneuDURGs0VVLavpIgPmUH5lvHAYZvqL3rqXzySQyvyW0BJJLkbn9cfh62iixYQxHRI5fyb0WoWTws6dZGpVUtpQdEAvkKSz2AjClNpc08OP_d02/s400/DSC03932.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5458123583833357858" border="0" /></a>At least Mr. Southern will be home tonight to fix anything amiss. On the bright side, I only ended up with three nail holes for two pictures- that is pretty good!<br /><br />And, please pardon my sappiness, but another example of my "opportunities" is my inability to make coffee properly any more, since Mr. Southern kindly makes it for me every morning. In my last attempt, I didn't put the filter in properly and we had coffee all over the counter.<br /><br />So this is what I found when I awoke this morning.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZBUVVz-2fRlemOR4Z0uQpDWiyc98qhl2Gs9AVmhKlEUJEQB33mACT5OlNzmaItgatf39xA7Zq05GJCRak-ggiDYd9HI2A1w4YKdq5qkvPm_KsSs3ncnga-cpXOFLZDGO_4_hOLGxxPtGA/s1600/DSC03937.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZBUVVz-2fRlemOR4Z0uQpDWiyc98qhl2Gs9AVmhKlEUJEQB33mACT5OlNzmaItgatf39xA7Zq05GJCRak-ggiDYd9HI2A1w4YKdq5qkvPm_KsSs3ncnga-cpXOFLZDGO_4_hOLGxxPtGA/s400/DSC03937.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5458121392033982306" border="0" /></a><br />Awww... isn't he sweet! (and for the record, while I am taking a vacation day today, I was up before 8:42AM, I just didn't photograph it right away!!)<br /><br />Have a fun weekend!<br /><br />-EmmieSouthern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-40072522372391383582010-04-07T08:25:00.000-04:002010-04-07T08:26:41.046-04:00Lovely Lemons- Baking Traditional Home's Cake and Gardening<p align="center"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 450px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.traditionalhome.com/images/img_VisualFeastlg_ss10.jpg" border="0" /></p><br /><div align="left">It's been a while since I've done a cooking post, probably because I've not done much cooking of late! Over the weekend though, I used our cul-de-sac Easter Egg Hunt party as the perfect excuse to try out the Lemmon Poppy Seed Coconut cake featured in this month's Traditional Home Magazine. Truth be told, the recipe did not actually appear in the magazine and readers "lit up" TH's Facebook page. (I wonder if that means Traditional Home will no longer feature fabulous food photos or if they'll start offering recipes? Design and good food seem to go along so well together. Remember Met Home's fabulous recipes?)</div><br /><div align="left"> It's a slightly complicated, yet not terribly difficult recipe. And the results are worth it. Here it is, interspersed with my pictures.<br /></div><br /><div align="left"><br /><strong> Lemon Poppy-Seed Layer Cake </strong></div><br /><div align="left">Prepare Lemon Curd filling the day before you bake the cake. Chill overnight. </div><div align="left"><em>Note: Forgot to make ahead of time. Put in fridge for the initial stage of cooling and then the freezer for a bit. Worked fine.</em></div><br /><div align="left"><strong>Lemon Curd (see recipe) </strong></div><br /><div align="left">1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened </div><div align="left">1-3/4 cups sugar </div><div align="left">3 tablespoons finely shredded lemon peel (from 3 large lemons) </div><div align="left">4 large eggs </div><div align="left">1/3 cup fresh lemon juice </div><div align="left">2 teaspoons lemon extract </div><div align="left">3 cups cake flour </div><div align="left">1 teaspoon baking powder </div><div align="left">1 teaspoon baking soda </div><div align="left">1 teaspoon salt </div><div align="left">1 cup buttermilk </div><div align="left">3 tablespoons poppy seeds </div><div align="left" style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div align="left"><strong>Coconut Buttercream Frosting (see recipe) </strong></div><br /><div align="left">4 cups natural raw chip coconut (about 5 to 6 ounces), toasted* </div><div align="left"><em>Note: I used regular bagged coconut and it was fine!</em></div><div align="left">Fresh strawberries </div><br /><div align="left">Prepare Lemon Curd. Cover; chill at least 8 hours. </div><br /><div align="left">Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two (9x1-1/2 inch) round baking pans. Set aside. In very large mixing bowl, beat butter, sugar, and lemon peel on medium speed until light and fluffy, scraping sides of bowl occasionally. Beat in eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in lemon juice and lemon extract. (Mixture may look curdled.)<br /><em>Note: it looked very curdled. Not to worry!</em><br /><br /><br /></div><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNjk6LPvBtpraXT4bS3IZcD18XL08IWm__CeImUNyqEXFW720-mCcdlQa4NwxomhSdJHYs6ygDAMkMfs8f1NEzKlaAiBQWFAvkuRC-7YBRBrLnLuOsGgzp7Bup3U_YwiOjYAGj0-LdZPym/s1600/DSC03848.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457352371816697106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNjk6LPvBtpraXT4bS3IZcD18XL08IWm__CeImUNyqEXFW720-mCcdlQa4NwxomhSdJHYs6ygDAMkMfs8f1NEzKlaAiBQWFAvkuRC-7YBRBrLnLuOsGgzp7Bup3U_YwiOjYAGj0-LdZPym/s400/DSC03848.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;">In another large bowl combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add flour mixture and buttermilk alternately to butter mixture, beating on low speed after each addition just until combined. Fold in poppy seeds.</div></div><div align="center" style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457352377734649762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibYRyYMnuMoZFSrI3HQHwP2IzSrar6zbO5cwrygKLRabLfX3HoCNwB-IOZcP2HTxGAMSIYb0Nx3LingUaN11m0OXVSQ4mKs-Byp4Qr0y-X_cOE4CPsHv0MtX2epljuP4-vV6aNe7A9d1Hy/s400/DSC03849.JPG" border="0" /><em>Yummy!</em></p><p>Divide cake batter evenly between prepared pans.<br /><br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHqD3Usxn2FUUadguK_g3r0u1jIHtTQ1Ef8fjp0yR5AenjV8uTlUNJn6Lyi_be9Cf40oQNPiZ_rHl22k36w5XWeJCkMFIyoiVvmsiEGdy-F0BmOpzipcLWWkcxvbJK4j1_L8qCWQSfomsl/s1600/DSC03846.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457352369388650754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHqD3Usxn2FUUadguK_g3r0u1jIHtTQ1Ef8fjp0yR5AenjV8uTlUNJn6Lyi_be9Cf40oQNPiZ_rHl22k36w5XWeJCkMFIyoiVvmsiEGdy-F0BmOpzipcLWWkcxvbJK4j1_L8qCWQSfomsl/s400/DSC03846.JPG" border="0" /></a> Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool cakes in pans on wire rack for 10 minutes. Remove cakes from pans; cool completely. When cakes are cool, trim tops of cakes if necessary to make them flat. Split cakes in half horizontally to create four cake rounds. </p><p><em>Note: Mr. Southern did a fabulous job. I am miserable at cutting in a straight line, be it a cake or wrapping paper.</em></p><em></em><p><br /></p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457352386937145490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilLp_mLPiWfXmiNsSktqBswuZUfx9Uy877hH80Qn0Nbgnta9dCgzX03Mb2oxlAs0X9r_dfbLILSqhyphenhyphenygxlp_oswME9NUJNtaRYX6tWRQOHdOaZClI6hFjm2ht4ZBk-7Sn_9jGDLhLhJ_28/s400/DSC03851.JPG" border="0" />To assemble, place one cake round on cake plate. Spread with 1 scant cup Lemon Curd. Top curd with another cake round and another scant cup of curd. Repeat with third cake round and the remaining curd. Top curd with last cake round. </p><p><em>Note: Use more than a "scant" on your first layer or you'll have lemon curd left over. Better yet, divide it into thirds so you know how much to use! I added a bit of the frosting in the middle layer as well.</em><br /><br /></p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457353220185880114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxunxU50NSd54969jsR3Ns4OMKMWKmwruVaAv8F8lbURcnhx1aor3GmQ30sqia0Pnxtp2M6GzWDeooY_P51RpYGp7MHWBdX0yTy7d0u6_WAiiO2oCAWYu8pE0KXpNy67g3g4ALveePiZqs/s400/DSC03852.JPG" border="0" /><br /></p><p>Frost top and sides of cake with Coconut Buttercream Frosting. Sprinkle toasted coconut on top of cake and press into sides of cake. Serve immediately with fresh strawberries, or store cake in refrigerator. </p><p>Let chilled cake stand at room temperature 1 hour before serving. Makes 12 to 16 servings.<br /></p><p><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457353228173853010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX7QHz4DLNicpopve9fb1KkDsxQX7eNU3hzXgZw9yt_VrWGPPf-akuxEz3d07X_H2DJ6wIRYP_R7KPRlgFAnacM3Y3HYlK_3W_wj9_49r7SEnBRHOnDOeMu6jPqMdlXmGjRj0cKtmvPa1c/s400/DSC03853.JPG" border="0" /></p><p>So while my cake is not quite as beautifully styled as the one featured in the magazine, it looked pretty good! (I think).</p><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457353213922845714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1JJ1xR4pCZe5sk5hDTTZlrvHXQT6tjwvmcvIOr3cO22xz50m6CWpaCKB5HoiWDt6x2SYTeKlBmYnh32YdxVnokppcb0s1wXESlOncHN0pX1ZVaxUnXV8ptNj1AComB4uujAoya8QhE9Cw/s400/DSC03857.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><b>Lemon Curd: </b><br />In large saucepan stir together 1-1/3 cups sugar and 2 tablespoons cornstarch. Stir in 1 tablespoon finely shredded lemon peel, 3/4 cup lemon juice, and 1/2 cup water. Cook and stir over medium heat until mixture is thickened and bubbly.<br /><br />In large bowl lightly beat 7 egg yolks. Slowly stir about half of hot lemon juice mixture into eggs. Return lemon-egg mixture to saucepan. Cook, stirring continuously over medium heat until mixture comes to gentle boil. Cook and stir 2 minutes more. Remove from heat. Stir in 1/2 cup butter, 1 tablespoon at a time, until melted and well combined. Cover surface of curd with waxed paper or plastic wrap. Chill curd at least 8 hours or until firm. Makes a scant 3 cups lemon curd.<br /><br /><b>Coconut Butter Cream Frosting: </b><br />In large mixing bowl beat 1 cup softened butter with electric mixer on medium speed for 30 seconds. Gradually beat in 2 cups powdered sugar. Beat in 3 tablespoons milk and 1 teaspoon coconut extract. Gradually beat in 4 cups additional powdered sugar until smooth, with spreading consistency. If necessary, beat in additional milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, to make spreading possible. Makes about 3-1/4 cups frosting.<br /><br />*To toast coconut: Preheat oven to 325°F. Spread coconut in shallow baking pan. Heat about 5 minutes or until coconut is fragrant and just barely toasted, stirring once. Cool completely.</p><div></div><br />For the Gardening portion.... let's take a look at my Improved Meyer Lemon tree, which we just moved outdoors. Ahhh, beautiful flowers (and they smell fabulous!)<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZsgJYwKYAfbb2UFOuHwC6xhCzoGsE762wKE8DRzXtuOeynyyF-Zp-DmOlcvzQj-BEu7B-_0WClUsUJYW2FuGIDfkEtT1YZ1nBrV0tX3xPS4dEYOn9Y0C1wuRlaH7TNUsG0mOfBzh_gViJ/s400/DSC03924.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457363912066025890" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Unfortunately, you can see that the leaves aren't as healthy as I'd like...</div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh91D_qpMVBPF_R1lFGNnv3v_MbdaHKFXSHQ7i0O_TQgpM84SzYTEGeyTYQcJckRFvRWQikrPau6Cb77G4A_1BATww9MytorTJGcm6JdygpwVSd6BNCXG0abD7kCe8vZFqujiRhYoVXR2qY/s400/DSC03922.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457363889206554178" />I believe we have an infestation of spider mites(??). So off to get Horticultural Oil and get rid of those nasty buggers. Oh how I long for a green thumb.<br /><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJcj2hSlsvZEo-xShjD6xQvkqe95kp8xl57DbJxeeI920QWJdvzdU6e_uyU-EGX2ZxbtvediRbDFYVY7Q3SKN6LHjmgEI-FW-HEVecu-B6__yaIgplzdiyZKIJefgUJYXWOv7A3C6WBbjY/s400/DSC03923.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457363906213341554" /><div style="text-align: left;">Oooh and I almost forgot- our little Easter Bunny! We have a big adoption weekend coming up, so I'm training her to look as cute as possible.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVb-Fag0tFOC1-RWj72mBA95vwiVJpPdHtLbPh6kDvCQhIvYGgdSgaUhwk48alqyan3EAUKAw9XEVxP7f4qZbCxkGw0p7Yn0b_UMblov-pLQ2UOy5PX42PO96G14MPcgaBWSycfdoC487B/s400/IMG_4360.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457370012027502834" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Have a Happy Week!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Emmie</div></div>Southern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-52373684358540660042010-04-05T07:27:00.006-04:002010-04-07T08:07:55.065-04:00Spanish 101 and Recalling Peru<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.emory.edu/home/img/home_715x334/home_spring_walking1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 715px; height: 334px;" src="http://www.emory.edu/home/img/home_715x334/home_spring_walking1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Friends, I have misplaced my camera cord so I cannot do my weekend review post as planned! Oops. So instead, some other goodies.<br /><br />Tonight Mrs. Southern Aspirations heads back to school. I'm enrolled in Accelerated Spanish 101, in an effort to shed myself of my self-titled "Ugly American" status. Please don't get me wrong... when I travel to other countries I do behave myself and try not to be overly touristy.<br /><br />However, I have not achieved my personal goal of being fluent in a language other than English. (For those readers who also are fluent in one language, I don't mean to sound judgmental of you! This is just my goal!!). You see, my sister is bilingual and teaches bilingual children. My mother taught High School Spanish and is very proficient in conversational Spanish. I, despite four years of Spanish and two years of French, am proficient in English. I have bought some CDs as well, but figure the classroom experience will be good for me.<br /><br /><br />On to Peru. I had the great opportunity to visit Peru with two of my dearest friends a few years ago and it was an amazing experience. We went from Lima...<br /><br />the city was so beautiful in many parts and I can't believe I didn't take more photos! My favorite was my morning run with <a href="http://jillieofalltrades.blogspot.com/">Jillie</a> along the Pacific Ocean...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM12FIE7doIYRaCZ1V_FmBQ5DwFg2q7yRzg_w3CQ88L67dTx2RdDEPzRmNND1W0ivWj8QKefzwzunnJNdteOY3cVL-zBCFpVLvtSaqxzoyLvZD4ByzOlEV8JNhjO0ptRQyYYGAFj_If8FI/s1600/474448299303.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM12FIE7doIYRaCZ1V_FmBQ5DwFg2q7yRzg_w3CQ88L67dTx2RdDEPzRmNND1W0ivWj8QKefzwzunnJNdteOY3cVL-zBCFpVLvtSaqxzoyLvZD4ByzOlEV8JNhjO0ptRQyYYGAFj_If8FI/s400/474448299303.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456620032086249218" border="0" /></a><br />to Cuzco....<br /><br />Santo Domingo Convent Monastery- quite simply gorgeous.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnFyxJrBcWa1VTIoU1zMU2smXXSWf_Z8IRls55CO1YID_vuoJv5lgBE7X5dQF-aQnt_oVfbcp55ZigkYESrrxJhV5KmOY0nx_9N4q_3rQnIuBRzFCbHODIW6kGO_R2KOId3DrjtMZxKldy/s1600/892684299303.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnFyxJrBcWa1VTIoU1zMU2smXXSWf_Z8IRls55CO1YID_vuoJv5lgBE7X5dQF-aQnt_oVfbcp55ZigkYESrrxJhV5KmOY0nx_9N4q_3rQnIuBRzFCbHODIW6kGO_R2KOId3DrjtMZxKldy/s400/892684299303.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456617821252622706" border="0" /></a><br />Pisaq Market for a little shopping<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfs0Sq5aHJMcah4YRLQiYaLr09QlQ_AuE4u_Jue4bPt2PFAMIEM5XT1zu3b9IAXgN4oUNjK_am5rFgTsU-4FoDR-uVdsEHOGfFLPQ1KrtcRCIFtvMu5Y-PBeHs_ibNQ8r94SBXmC4J-fRT/s1600/639115299303.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfs0Sq5aHJMcah4YRLQiYaLr09QlQ_AuE4u_Jue4bPt2PFAMIEM5XT1zu3b9IAXgN4oUNjK_am5rFgTsU-4FoDR-uVdsEHOGfFLPQ1KrtcRCIFtvMu5Y-PBeHs_ibNQ8r94SBXmC4J-fRT/s400/639115299303.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456620044722137122" border="0" /></a><br />Ollantaytambo, the only Incan village where folks still live in the ancient buildings<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjED6yQ6ZX13wnCjDSXli0J-yKOAwGGjbDT0jND6CfErtXU8zxfQnSPtrXjw4LTOG6lP7m7mCjK0kn81RIdPuQM-e5zMNNpiObSNczY0pXmOoh0VJlbk1Xnf_bis4xtOYhbtpzP3qKODcN9/s1600/136555299303.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjED6yQ6ZX13wnCjDSXli0J-yKOAwGGjbDT0jND6CfErtXU8zxfQnSPtrXjw4LTOG6lP7m7mCjK0kn81RIdPuQM-e5zMNNpiObSNczY0pXmOoh0VJlbk1Xnf_bis4xtOYhbtpzP3qKODcN9/s400/136555299303.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456617831194376194" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiTj4_j_AwfXpZ-mmjgx0CX9UrKMvi7cO1HuystXLq308-UGG0vE8w06YH6JugLGS-WZ3-5suZw5fpxVpQCEHeEBqsev6IezOPpiGW-5XDTrRyzzH8koFJqBGwxklx9aWNSnbmCpi-qtlJ/s1600/821494299303.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiTj4_j_AwfXpZ-mmjgx0CX9UrKMvi7cO1HuystXLq308-UGG0vE8w06YH6JugLGS-WZ3-5suZw5fpxVpQCEHeEBqsev6IezOPpiGW-5XDTrRyzzH8koFJqBGwxklx9aWNSnbmCpi-qtlJ/s400/821494299303.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456622654538832146" border="0" /></a><br />our super-cute hotel, <a href="http://www.hotelsolyluna.com/spa2.html">Sol y Luna</a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7F9uFMxXfMkL5H3Z6lnhqMdqCO9JW2N_GhCdkhU4n3boxv9nDqn-YanZxaBH_pLdbE1ghI-FhQgmz4BzZvx2MJFN4Ca9yiwxt9RyHVB-ZuZ4BNGx7ZoQT9JF4JcIqxIS4KsmBd336nZnT/s1600/116885299303.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7F9uFMxXfMkL5H3Z6lnhqMdqCO9JW2N_GhCdkhU4n3boxv9nDqn-YanZxaBH_pLdbE1ghI-FhQgmz4BzZvx2MJFN4Ca9yiwxt9RyHVB-ZuZ4BNGx7ZoQT9JF4JcIqxIS4KsmBd336nZnT/s400/116885299303.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456620012398415442" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizpUaZL4S5HkCOYqAEthD9ytG-bzZ7RU3fQbdMwZM4UoJSOIei52k-zwUKWEt9PFaxKoJmhVbifE1Lv1kotla7O5RMOCUE0aKmuV8_eIGOpyk451bhkIpj32up2roke9Mv-khuU93-YLgU/s1600/717795299303.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizpUaZL4S5HkCOYqAEthD9ytG-bzZ7RU3fQbdMwZM4UoJSOIei52k-zwUKWEt9PFaxKoJmhVbifE1Lv1kotla7O5RMOCUE0aKmuV8_eIGOpyk451bhkIpj32up2roke9Mv-khuU93-YLgU/s400/717795299303.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456622640990487250" border="0" /></a><br />to the Sacred Valley of Machu Picchu...<br /><br />Because of the elevation, it apparently is cloudy/foggy most mornings. However, still absolutely incredible views. This can be my inspiration for terracing the little hill in the backyard! (kidding, of course).<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi618-feT-lJa_hNXO7sXNxhi6N1VbgnoT-XKXxYHyaiDji0kq2Dfx6xeI3iuvrIlq79ve_QVu6EegCPS6dJvCfknfA5ku_IFwYh84Nj69z22qRKI66EpaSqDBnx2Ei9G7rkNRK8EVRbf6q/s1600/252026299303.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi618-feT-lJa_hNXO7sXNxhi6N1VbgnoT-XKXxYHyaiDji0kq2Dfx6xeI3iuvrIlq79ve_QVu6EegCPS6dJvCfknfA5ku_IFwYh84Nj69z22qRKI66EpaSqDBnx2Ei9G7rkNRK8EVRbf6q/s400/252026299303.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456617842194314818" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOSTuDKF3blZfPj8yCZ_oDJguS-M9iD1E1Y56xx-d16SeiNxNKueQMFuYF4EPT3TEOsT6M0DBTyQLPAWwvpaqRzIS2ST1xJ6w0Uye9-E9P8z6rrohBrE3FTHc9rGwsMngm57Gzd8pxhgXI/s1600/395156299303.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOSTuDKF3blZfPj8yCZ_oDJguS-M9iD1E1Y56xx-d16SeiNxNKueQMFuYF4EPT3TEOsT6M0DBTyQLPAWwvpaqRzIS2ST1xJ6w0Uye9-E9P8z6rrohBrE3FTHc9rGwsMngm57Gzd8pxhgXI/s400/395156299303.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456620019157148610" border="0" /></a><br />and then down to Puno.<br /><br />We did a little hiking- and it was quite cold in parts!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsPGMz7Rm191qgAjl75loW8wrHmIbByELeAk7dTHDwP4zvb29WzDlyN0-T0cEbTPn4t1PSDjND2nIWaaVJEXxGVIF88DqGV0plh9zYZYOZ5YiEJ6wo73aT5_W8g-Zy0xUfFQZ51zaSQY7j/s1600/685496299303.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsPGMz7Rm191qgAjl75loW8wrHmIbByELeAk7dTHDwP4zvb29WzDlyN0-T0cEbTPn4t1PSDjND2nIWaaVJEXxGVIF88DqGV0plh9zYZYOZ5YiEJ6wo73aT5_W8g-Zy0xUfFQZ51zaSQY7j/s400/685496299303.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456622630836636498" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHTg6I3iyb0c2H24oxelMg15sQ8ndMy19FHEdWYKig4sS3Vh6LUpadsBNl1Z3yZR0y0qm5gtvhbL4TJ0cME-b00UziI8TlcQ1zDwVU-gUiQzo7TQvEvpPxsx6fJ11U4YjA3mztlHdW6F6V/s1600/252026299303.jpg"><br /></a>Lake Titicaca<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi23yC5i8MHuSr09OE1ahWWPV3fHsX2VdM47X7QKDngquJU8aP8YQwy6_hwlQrMsa-_5ENzoxXXtFAi0gIcs3r2bKsIm52ugjhpZlvP233be7Pe3sV9BiU3bxUGGksDFRQ83JJE4PAE-Nhu/s1600/355196299303.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi23yC5i8MHuSr09OE1ahWWPV3fHsX2VdM47X7QKDngquJU8aP8YQwy6_hwlQrMsa-_5ENzoxXXtFAi0gIcs3r2bKsIm52ugjhpZlvP233be7Pe3sV9BiU3bxUGGksDFRQ83JJE4PAE-Nhu/s400/355196299303.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456617856722108882" border="0" /></a><br />So yes, the trip was a bit touristy, but it was great to learn the history of the beautiful country while seeing it. Additionally, we used <a href="http://www.latindiscover.com/">Latin Discover</a> tours (we're not the group tour types) and were very pleased. Whenever we felt lost or confused, it's amazing how someone from Latin Discover would appear and call for us. Even when we didn't realize we should have gotten off the train.<br /><br />cute little alpacas in Puno<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDWN6QHwACihgKNAWV61aqkHcRJ6YAPmXcfbNihkuWQLfYd_lXr9MITwo2yV8ExQMNUFsj2U3Pr7QtXHrN6RAenodVSVEXvoVoBTCqYJ53eawYbE9yeaPQH8UjIUBIl77n6yZhYcZN7Liz/s1600/430517299303.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDWN6QHwACihgKNAWV61aqkHcRJ6YAPmXcfbNihkuWQLfYd_lXr9MITwo2yV8ExQMNUFsj2U3Pr7QtXHrN6RAenodVSVEXvoVoBTCqYJ53eawYbE9yeaPQH8UjIUBIl77n6yZhYcZN7Liz/s400/430517299303.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456620027900922818" border="0" /></a><br /><br />By my next trip, I hope to be a bit more conversant in Spanish!<br /><br />Have a great week!<br /><br />EmmieSouthern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-4680132592885766892010-04-04T07:12:00.002-04:002010-04-04T07:14:57.827-04:00Happy Easter!<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://rlv.zcache.com/white_easter_lilly_card-p137540970742080588qi0i_400.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="http://rlv.zcache.com/white_easter_lilly_card-p137540970742080588qi0i_400.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><table style="text-align: center; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" class="ts"><tbody><tr></tr><tr><td class="rt1" style="background-position: -10px 0pt; background-repeat: repeat;"><br /></td><td style="padding: 0pt 5px 1px; width: 100%; text-align: left;">"He is not here; for <em>He is risen</em>, as He said. (Matthew 28:6a)</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br />Go share the good news!<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div>Southern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-84505528621262548552010-04-01T22:32:00.011-04:002010-04-07T08:08:11.988-04:00Bunny Love and Happy Birthday Tilghman<img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 380px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://oregonjon.files.wordpress.com/2008/09/bunny.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>This is probably a little bit out there, but with the upcoming Easter holiday and all the bunnies around, I thought I'd introduce you to Leaping Bunny. </div><br /><div></div><a href="http://www.leapingbunny.org/shopping.php"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455363269245113074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 48px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7IrclReOupxUzWBEiXDBvX05CNXBfcZ3mZdBGNUtoD9E_Cw0OdfzvfmqtNFXiVr9IDZp8AxGBmAkeiTfhp8mZObg69fOnzzlFPhs4LWB-hQZKeQXPpLI_r_e8R75pF0Oi_Ej9UvgbptbV/s400/LBPledge498X60.gif" border="0" /></a><br />The Coalition for Consumer Information on Cosmetics (CCIC) is comprised of numerous organizations across the globe to help consumers make more informed decisions when purchasing household products, like cosmetics. The whole "cruelty free" piece can be rather misleading. Does a company use someone else to "do their dirty work" or are they committed to truly being cruelty free?<br /><br />The CCIC has the most comprehensive pledge I've seen and their website has opened the door for me to all kinds of great products, be it great skincare lines, makeup, or cleaning products. Another bonus? Most of these are environmentally friendly in other ways, making use of natural materials and minimizing their carbon footprint.<br /><br />Some examples? (click on the logos to go directly to their website)<br /><br /><a href="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/yhst-35287263477925_2097_22712949"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 295px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 514px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/yhst-35287263477925_2097_22712949" border="0" /> </a><p align="center"></p><br /><a href="http://www.goodhomestore.com/index.html">The Good Home Co. </a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.cactusandivy.com/"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455368052631362850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 234px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 207px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-yw9pnN8tGP85XJb5z19Eqg4hTqqx-1NAv3adr85LcVmwU-Ipl8qzsL5Ca1NwoJ_qjI0hK7QXhKXOMgKKjOU8_6Fp57JwOOqu0R5O29yq40bhvwWgRMAXTyF93gDcwS3RukMirbCn8SCo/s400/cactus+and+ivy.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.vermontsoap.com/"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455365950127695954" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 294px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 221px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzTYcvMIqr-w02wosnrJLZg1ZFeEyDPJGGvDsR294rYT8u7AOkZ43eL52gXWzUAyYq3YsV3ZFtBEWlCsAOca6Z7cbCzaFQDx3EGVWp2d327L6E83i4oPt0GZRoeNtGX9cxxURpxsikWXbN/s400/VTsoaplogoSMLR.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.springrainbotanicals.com/"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 179px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 158px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://springrainsoaps.homestead.com/SR_logo_50dpi.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455368058682382866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 196px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 92px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMv53_8_R7GfVmaPTlf2HVgh2QqYZ7FrXEkbCv9f9TUgBgipag_8HNzSKr3v7N0SrfdKstYGAVbdNjs9sqtBOa_5A2szo7DpRZBa1kUIsu78QjEmwKgzUYkFa8IGaDiViJRUXGeWjQVpVX/s400/yves.gif" border="0" /><br /><a href="http://www.toofaced.com/" target="_blank"></a><br /><br /><div></div><br /><a href="http://www.toofaced.com/"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455371261589545618" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 97px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 109px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk6Zbk5qp-4qD5BSLn76r1H1NMJutk_Z9wcHlWVF6G42bkb3wYvwnMYS7QTg4BndRzCENFRejhWtN6odIVmjrfvmavVGJe2ZuQjXacSQujybB_JdRil5Hbtshk-t-lvIjKFk_sgK1V1gDg/s400/toofaced.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><div>Click <a href="http://www.leapingbunny.org/shopping.php">HERE</a> for a complete shopping guide. No lecture or horror stories -- just please don't be a Kelly (yes, that's a Real Housewives of NYC reference) and blindly believe that human consumption and animal suffering are always mutually exclusive.</div><div><br />And I would be remiss if I did not wish a Happy Birthday to my baby boy, Tilghman (aka Tillie). Apologies for the terrible camera phone picture, but it so perfectly captures him and his naughtiness. Tilghman turns 6 today and we are blessed to have had him join our family nearly 4 years ago.</div></div><br /><br /><p><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW637WDT17F6Zg6D0ruOX3kxEakWlVOv8xEQx1G0uK3ZeHhr05RbvPw0LxupTNlpRNXQ2hFdIp2pzoeVghw931-nGw5eN1WY7IMjIoBEYX6OvyGeXAw20aANsqxtBCIv9w8j5gBticP7tl/s1600/Tilghman.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455371543087610258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 303px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW637WDT17F6Zg6D0ruOX3kxEakWlVOv8xEQx1G0uK3ZeHhr05RbvPw0LxupTNlpRNXQ2hFdIp2pzoeVghw931-nGw5eN1WY7IMjIoBEYX6OvyGeXAw20aANsqxtBCIv9w8j5gBticP7tl/s400/Tilghman.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Yes, that is a toilet paper roll he stole from the downstair's bath trashbin. Oh but he's a cutie. </p><p></p><p>-Emmie</p>Southern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-28771216208814449332010-03-30T22:09:00.012-04:002010-04-07T08:10:02.560-04:00Ballard Designs Backroom Bonanza<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRLXwh2fsheSZCtE9-RVpw3RWAFWHnNNVubVSfzPXAZzJ_-J2GwNYcS1M3TZvS8O-qGPf2aQpmwoYSxklSyU6UZGxPJ2bfGSqri4nvK2K25jwi11evKUmGT6wgsxfHv_1rHIqjnbJbQdwG/s1600/16864_283113796133_6241321133_3511506_5775583_n.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRLXwh2fsheSZCtE9-RVpw3RWAFWHnNNVubVSfzPXAZzJ_-J2GwNYcS1M3TZvS8O-qGPf2aQpmwoYSxklSyU6UZGxPJ2bfGSqri4nvK2K25jwi11evKUmGT6wgsxfHv_1rHIqjnbJbQdwG/s400/16864_283113796133_6241321133_3511506_5775583_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454629140769939954" border="0" /></a>via Ballard Design's <a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=3511506&id=6241321133">Facebook</a> Page<br /></div><br /><a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.highglossblue.blogspot.com">Claire</a> and I were discussing fabric options for the <a href="http://http://southernaspirations.blogspot.com/2010/02/pull-up-bench.html">banquette</a> at my dining room table and she casually suggested I check out Ballard Design's Backroom location to see some of the fabric in real life. Little did she know (OK, she probably knew) that a visit would solve all of my dilemmas.<br /><br />Upon my visit, I immediately checked in with the salesperson to see if I could take photos. Alas, no, as a previous blogger apparently took photos then posted a negative review AND showed locations of all the hidden security cameras. So, my personal before and afters will have to suffice. But the showroom near downtown Atlanta is fabulous. I ran up to check the one is Roswell too and just didn't like it nearly as well.<br /><br />On to the good stuff- my salesfriend helpfully informed me that they had four upholstered <a href="http://http//www.ballarddesigns.com/comShop/customProdAction.do%3Faction%3DinitCustom?ruleID=2357&fromNewSearch=true&itemType=PRODUCT&itemID=1539&mercadoResultId=5">Parsons</a> chairs available and on sale- at the greatly reduced retail of $94 each (sorry, I'm just so excited!). <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO05UkSl9EC9k-CvMElJ9FKM_a06OFh684eBKGvhWHl35bZKtlMYS0ecNW-Tb1zX1zPUbRJ-srUx9aFyifksrME7_9kwOJIhtZxAQsh4LRNZSH2aMqVUxpb4uOzse1LRxo07DSVDCJHyfI/s1600/DSC03667.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO05UkSl9EC9k-CvMElJ9FKM_a06OFh684eBKGvhWHl35bZKtlMYS0ecNW-Tb1zX1zPUbRJ-srUx9aFyifksrME7_9kwOJIhtZxAQsh4LRNZSH2aMqVUxpb4uOzse1LRxo07DSVDCJHyfI/s400/DSC03667.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454620592032686610" border="0" /></a>I snatched them up and picked up 2 natural linen slips (<a href="http://cotedetexas.blogspot.com/">Joni</a>, you've convinced me). I would have bought 4 slips, but alas they could only find two. Off to the website to order the other two. And yes, they need more ironing and straightening (sorry! I'm also packing for a trip. But I'm cringing at how wrinkled that one chair is!).<br /><br />But wait! There's more! Ballards also had the black check <a href="http://www.ballarddesigns.com/comShop/customProdAction.do%3Faction%3DinitCustom?ruleID=2357&fromNewSearch=true&itemType=PRODUCT&itemID=5785&mercadoResultId=8">Coventry</a> bench. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNKyACA7_G8B9iTnIlqLFLDdNaNSCRQQdAwdn9Kv2va4Bb3k1o7jXixgDq_0KEeP2tcRY3QyHjAUg2seggs0HC7IAtdZdUhR_J5RQWEsrh7MnRBUybOH85prW9EHaiAfqYv7ugeKFcVj-m/s1600/DSC03688.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNKyACA7_G8B9iTnIlqLFLDdNaNSCRQQdAwdn9Kv2va4Bb3k1o7jXixgDq_0KEeP2tcRY3QyHjAUg2seggs0HC7IAtdZdUhR_J5RQWEsrh7MnRBUybOH85prW9EHaiAfqYv7ugeKFcVj-m/s400/DSC03688.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454625350408833634" border="0" /></a>While we were not really considering the black and white check, the discounted $186 option prompted a quick change of heart. An immediate/panic email to Claire and some quick verification measurements at home, and the bench was mine.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVlc0Z2KWaD7v3gKYiU-dMlczYHbjkzsZdYiOSIf7rID_EhaM-C8B8mOtWN7fRHyZJf28LJZSbSJS7IKEdoiDXYehdV08FwbXYtrxrx7C3RlnMzwc6sPdIEPrJ8cAc22LhmqNIwqeWlyN8/s1600/DSC03685.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVlc0Z2KWaD7v3gKYiU-dMlczYHbjkzsZdYiOSIf7rID_EhaM-C8B8mOtWN7fRHyZJf28LJZSbSJS7IKEdoiDXYehdV08FwbXYtrxrx7C3RlnMzwc6sPdIEPrJ8cAc22LhmqNIwqeWlyN8/s400/DSC03685.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454622915590810338" border="0" /></a><br />I added the square linen-covered pillow to help pull the slipcovers and bench together. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVsIOOwhJBPgK4ktRIhdt1x-6uRMVc4Rc25b55abHHpRC_X_Ac_bSQD4bC0RZRBGektQ1w_3LAnc2YdWaiGzr6ufIU4c2itbTkATomj__z4i6qHq9DaqX2DHKbPkeLIcr6JfjxqDm0mWao/s1600/DSC03689.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVsIOOwhJBPgK4ktRIhdt1x-6uRMVc4Rc25b55abHHpRC_X_Ac_bSQD4bC0RZRBGektQ1w_3LAnc2YdWaiGzr6ufIU4c2itbTkATomj__z4i6qHq9DaqX2DHKbPkeLIcr6JfjxqDm0mWao/s400/DSC03689.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454622907082376386" border="0" /></a>Claire suggested adding some black ribbon along the bottom of the chairs as well, which I think would work nicely. Additionally, we still need to strip the wallpaper and swap out the chandelier. But progress!<br /><br />A quick review of the before:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOUzPrCAe2sNr8-8Rv3xJZVJKTVutmhsl3gjLXFA2U0U5TUSkAgK5fBpno4LSW6kzWsmGsyCPHC1qzG_h-e-IwMEGduA_nia25f7N8Q2HO93fHSwhgMGZ_5EcnOF7NIGcDuSIVVgxon5Ah/s1600/DSC03002.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOUzPrCAe2sNr8-8Rv3xJZVJKTVutmhsl3gjLXFA2U0U5TUSkAgK5fBpno4LSW6kzWsmGsyCPHC1qzG_h-e-IwMEGduA_nia25f7N8Q2HO93fHSwhgMGZ_5EcnOF7NIGcDuSIVVgxon5Ah/s400/DSC03002.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454618930095874658" border="0" /></a><br />And after!<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik4cSrQUlQesIMSlvv6PtuzPC0aJEjY7C_BeGo3J-K3t59RRWg6OfaopagmUfVzrGToVMShuBB3_52zNAj90tDGNrwlHupO-iGuLGuHYZ80xixzIHE0c71pgmRUCJgZ_0_GxMM6ccI6C9c/s1600/DSC03686.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik4cSrQUlQesIMSlvv6PtuzPC0aJEjY7C_BeGo3J-K3t59RRWg6OfaopagmUfVzrGToVMShuBB3_52zNAj90tDGNrwlHupO-iGuLGuHYZ80xixzIHE0c71pgmRUCJgZ_0_GxMM6ccI6C9c/s400/DSC03686.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454625338477864466" border="0" /></a><br />And Kaylee was dying to be included in the photos, so I had to post this shot of her. She's still <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rescue-Me-Animal-Project/133822049274?v=feed&story_fbid=143719138582#%21/album.php?aid=111206&id=133822049274">available for adoption</a>!!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf6Xq6TUVhU7yd8Hc6SOdBK0PeFr2fForpxU9d8ITWDXj5oL-R4fCBiHHREVrT6_tbf59Qeijb6QjNIO3mjz2FVlW2USeXopO5aD8kLiRIRp1tXLFKHCbktInMrjYKocMBhgGnLQDFeahD/s1600/DSC03682.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf6Xq6TUVhU7yd8Hc6SOdBK0PeFr2fForpxU9d8ITWDXj5oL-R4fCBiHHREVrT6_tbf59Qeijb6QjNIO3mjz2FVlW2USeXopO5aD8kLiRIRp1tXLFKHCbktInMrjYKocMBhgGnLQDFeahD/s400/DSC03682.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454625354301140706" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Clearly Mr. Southern and I do not use the breakfast nook very often. I'm embarrassed to say that most dinners are consumed while we're sitting on the couch (I know! What are we, 19!?) When we're entertaining, we eat in the dining room. So my hope is that these comfy chairs will encourage us to act our age and actually eat at the table.<br /><br />Also, I must apologize for the science project on the table but we're starting our veggies (tomatoes, sweet peppers, yellow and green squash, and cilantro). Yum!<br /><br />Best,<br />EmmieSouthern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com53tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-15787228754937935602010-03-29T07:34:00.008-04:002010-04-07T08:11:07.993-04:00It's a Brand New Day!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitPT65UibLyUXSPeiOsY4quTjuoPhVecs5vOBt7z72yabEf6SGIrXs5E8qOM1_p4fPjequW-1r4IvYrWbMWZ7HYjTd9lSjwWpsPRTx0QTRWb4AaEqaaUPtwCLFvVlWf3EhqB_5kvhDOIf3/s1600/DSC03602.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitPT65UibLyUXSPeiOsY4quTjuoPhVecs5vOBt7z72yabEf6SGIrXs5E8qOM1_p4fPjequW-1r4IvYrWbMWZ7HYjTd9lSjwWpsPRTx0QTRWb4AaEqaaUPtwCLFvVlWf3EhqB_5kvhDOIf3/s400/DSC03602.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454035826114276802" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;">Great quote: Every sixty seconds you spend angry, upset or mad, is a full minute of happiness you'll never get back.<br /></div><br />Good morning! I hope everyone had a lovely weekend. Mr. Southern and I got a bit of gardening accomplished- mostly weeding, admittedly, but rather cathartic! Madison, our youngest furbaby, tossed up Daddy's sock that she apparently had eaten<span style="font-style: italic;"> last week</span> when Mommy was out of town. Of course, we thought the culprit was Tilghman! (sorry, that is probably TMI). Needless to say, she is feeling much better and is now getting along fine with foster dog Kaylee.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqPA-smBbV8Btk-3jPgXpeAIj7kM-liyNcxlluxISt3sylSqf5I3VICXemUja9l4JJqGFmetmrpy4rEe4a-pA3G1y70nQ86xx5F0bYxsH6fFzkw2NIsGEWx0_X8yN_HpbQisDjYILxtzcs/s1600/DSC03560.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqPA-smBbV8Btk-3jPgXpeAIj7kM-liyNcxlluxISt3sylSqf5I3VICXemUja9l4JJqGFmetmrpy4rEe4a-pA3G1y70nQ86xx5F0bYxsH6fFzkw2NIsGEWx0_X8yN_HpbQisDjYILxtzcs/s400/DSC03560.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454029577730272050" border="0" /></a>Speaking of dogs, last week we attended a fundraiser for the Atlanta Humane Society, hosted by the fine folks at Sweetwater Brewing. We got to meet Lemonhead, an incredibly sweet Staffordshire Terrier rescued from a dog-fighting ring in Atlanta. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgifOrGS7K7mQU3qNK4HqjOBIwCQbvD15MKt3eBSfS_Q6CWnhNwWl0ovwHUEqU94ELRlEH7fGYpc3XeOJd_2pQmxDSwIg0kB7HGq8uekDnjllFcIRmm8oQKqC4bIkAmOaTB1JBVsWFJ-bM2/s1600/DSC03556.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgifOrGS7K7mQU3qNK4HqjOBIwCQbvD15MKt3eBSfS_Q6CWnhNwWl0ovwHUEqU94ELRlEH7fGYpc3XeOJd_2pQmxDSwIg0kB7HGq8uekDnjllFcIRmm8oQKqC4bIkAmOaTB1JBVsWFJ-bM2/s400/DSC03556.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454029586855349026" border="0" /></a> After socializing (and after I-<span style="font-style: italic;">nicely</span>- finished grilling of one of the directors), we had a tour of the facility.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLQ76veSopn8cbygCkMRx-wP49WPgrV1399n2luHX68PsnsaxvvAohrOvO66XmSSxafV7b8_CUKYl3OkqsWg_uFJE8DNMNzjQHclfM2OsA0GWJtJVTPx6KzmihIBtXOUNs5op8LJO6Edx8/s1600/DSC03566.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLQ76veSopn8cbygCkMRx-wP49WPgrV1399n2luHX68PsnsaxvvAohrOvO66XmSSxafV7b8_CUKYl3OkqsWg_uFJE8DNMNzjQHclfM2OsA0GWJtJVTPx6KzmihIBtXOUNs5op8LJO6Edx8/s400/DSC03566.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454029598278069362" border="0" /></a>Friday night, Habersham hosted another Garden Party with a few tasty snacks and wine. Few things better than sipping wine in the garden.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-a_yCujkMa-SWNFu8x21a1cU64b-7aILbmKww-Wl-rpGR5WlQh0JVrrZ8CKXnTDKnOAtmBszDsg4gwx229qQFdzEnKacCM4GWqcF-pcJRSjuafgUovFapXtiJ4OsOOmK37v6ZExteWTXP/s1600/DSC03579.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-a_yCujkMa-SWNFu8x21a1cU64b-7aILbmKww-Wl-rpGR5WlQh0JVrrZ8CKXnTDKnOAtmBszDsg4gwx229qQFdzEnKacCM4GWqcF-pcJRSjuafgUovFapXtiJ4OsOOmK37v6ZExteWTXP/s400/DSC03579.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454029606546609570" border="0" /></a><br />It's no secret that I would replace all of the grass in our backyard with gardens and pathways if Mr. Southern would allow me and Habersham is just the place for inspiration (I also posted about them last Fall).<br /><br />Honestly, not to knock anyway, but how many garden centers have staging like this?<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw7XSTCV9Q83l5ddbWfxITtXNCkdfPg1ku1p3jPVClzJIIAviTv1xKF_Py473TvbJETZDjtuHZZ-OPAviJjoTMRjITS1aQQwZUhNig6MXsoJBxWb23EtIeTtRjr6Vlez4q5BtDCxQeFJGj/s1600/DSC03582.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw7XSTCV9Q83l5ddbWfxITtXNCkdfPg1ku1p3jPVClzJIIAviTv1xKF_Py473TvbJETZDjtuHZZ-OPAviJjoTMRjITS1aQQwZUhNig6MXsoJBxWb23EtIeTtRjr6Vlez4q5BtDCxQeFJGj/s400/DSC03582.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454033028347965618" border="0" /></a><br />Not to mention their fabulous indoor spaces, a respite from the chilling temps, featuring items that look equally great indoors as out.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2A3dWz7Z4QtFSuCL99P0XHhA5PpVgfKa1Rd5KStc993x_AkEeVktunHCbkk2-BK9hL_uTtwZkDS1SzNO_MremYRBB3TMd6SIC-_CWPVKvgE2m8uLfre1EAULMnC74xMQHujGXalytwBuY/s1600/DSC03592.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2A3dWz7Z4QtFSuCL99P0XHhA5PpVgfKa1Rd5KStc993x_AkEeVktunHCbkk2-BK9hL_uTtwZkDS1SzNO_MremYRBB3TMd6SIC-_CWPVKvgE2m8uLfre1EAULMnC74xMQHujGXalytwBuY/s400/DSC03592.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454033058340648738" border="0" /></a><br />Love this little guy...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglOmnmbcyRK0tCWxvWVFPJVb43ukOsMPK69Ld_1H9Ffh1G3LePt744QDbBX-79NGVX-iNh5D16EKueUx3xttPHksu4Zqp1guAIxi-KKC3ucBXsoLNHqwM3sRN_Vi5WP3P1nx4S4t_Q2csq/s1600/DSC03594.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglOmnmbcyRK0tCWxvWVFPJVb43ukOsMPK69Ld_1H9Ffh1G3LePt744QDbBX-79NGVX-iNh5D16EKueUx3xttPHksu4Zqp1guAIxi-KKC3ucBXsoLNHqwM3sRN_Vi5WP3P1nx4S4t_Q2csq/s400/DSC03594.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454033053445661746" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrpXbh3JPAbCaCPd4J1K5NS1Ft26t6opZiypIRpBboOlkQxLrOu_0WVhf6Z3-3DG2xEcHy6R85A9llR7pPsRfjolpoFKaDKXU-QhlVdoaesLBcK4gqbNWZiXJ2K36Uo2sR_1HGJ3zDWyY5/s1600/DSC03589.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrpXbh3JPAbCaCPd4J1K5NS1Ft26t6opZiypIRpBboOlkQxLrOu_0WVhf6Z3-3DG2xEcHy6R85A9llR7pPsRfjolpoFKaDKXU-QhlVdoaesLBcK4gqbNWZiXJ2K36Uo2sR_1HGJ3zDWyY5/s400/DSC03589.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454033047547503154" border="0" /></a>This little house was too expensive for my taste (well over $200!) but oh so cute.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiferFsQ2zS2ci360T8rTvhoNswkG0MDbCUGFC-hSnUzYBzCs3tD2gJ51FXE2kTn-8Dwii2Nlw_LbdoGDrrNnwTO-Ko46zrJlty9AFG5UdIeIGEJ5uvdMG4zz2BzWVnKYNenL7aQNG7twfi/s1600/DSC03587.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiferFsQ2zS2ci360T8rTvhoNswkG0MDbCUGFC-hSnUzYBzCs3tD2gJ51FXE2kTn-8Dwii2Nlw_LbdoGDrrNnwTO-Ko46zrJlty9AFG5UdIeIGEJ5uvdMG4zz2BzWVnKYNenL7aQNG7twfi/s400/DSC03587.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454033035119221186" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzfeb5fwTi48J4LQ5UDV9M513YZSz0fRVKMr5Se7rSmr94A59xGdCLLkJfRAFj5KhsMCON4OWOPRTHw59tjuod7_EaYjX5zRukb_o9YF-OCR0UMD6l0Ni9tp8CiAFvptuxHCycc78oqpx6/s1600/DSC03601.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzfeb5fwTi48J4LQ5UDV9M513YZSz0fRVKMr5Se7rSmr94A59xGdCLLkJfRAFj5KhsMCON4OWOPRTHw59tjuod7_EaYjX5zRukb_o9YF-OCR0UMD6l0Ni9tp8CiAFvptuxHCycc78oqpx6/s400/DSC03601.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454034362251930498" border="0" /></a>This little bunny would be a welcome visitor in any garden... and just in time for Easter.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi56w_izMUMOG2rfJGH7ZDpjPGdTlOHtQlrfXKlFlK-OAIo_REeSpuTFpG4q5vxkNCyXcDLSIwh9q0rsJV_I1ybkn3zYcdfgEM5Ey6QwkLDxmiykRnq64H-i_EzYgJOxGkVCpcqZhfogcA0/s1600/DSC03598.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi56w_izMUMOG2rfJGH7ZDpjPGdTlOHtQlrfXKlFlK-OAIo_REeSpuTFpG4q5vxkNCyXcDLSIwh9q0rsJV_I1ybkn3zYcdfgEM5Ey6QwkLDxmiykRnq64H-i_EzYgJOxGkVCpcqZhfogcA0/s400/DSC03598.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454034348747895714" border="0" /></a><br /><br />LOVE the look of these edibles.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrbvY4nuAqdBWf4CqH-bt4bCXa8Qcb_zm0jEPdk6MxoKGPhO7prg-TqSqShteu4eo8ryZGF1Ql_wJdPrERpsrJzzcFPy25vOogC5Pc1caZlHhludLkO36Hua2ahfGSr4tdNc8mp7SuH1lL/s1600/DSC03599.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrbvY4nuAqdBWf4CqH-bt4bCXa8Qcb_zm0jEPdk6MxoKGPhO7prg-TqSqShteu4eo8ryZGF1Ql_wJdPrERpsrJzzcFPy25vOogC5Pc1caZlHhludLkO36Hua2ahfGSr4tdNc8mp7SuH1lL/s400/DSC03599.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454034355436524322" border="0" /></a>And as we did last fall, we finished up at <a href="http://www.alfredositalianrestaurant.com/">Alfredo</a>'s, a great old-school Italian place.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE6b_UphtKqXiIvQgFKxndDb9xhFCTM3e9uSevUysBK8VQZi9n1Dqf9M8GEV-PHVbLeQss2ND9NhBOBUDyD4F8WrvFcdemBV4tvOUhw28Cu7s1Wmope69Ht3YHEiarHvqy9rlxtmf0WWdS/s1600/DSC03604.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 231px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE6b_UphtKqXiIvQgFKxndDb9xhFCTM3e9uSevUysBK8VQZi9n1Dqf9M8GEV-PHVbLeQss2ND9NhBOBUDyD4F8WrvFcdemBV4tvOUhw28Cu7s1Wmope69Ht3YHEiarHvqy9rlxtmf0WWdS/s400/DSC03604.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454034373252326066" border="0" /></a><br />Have a fabulous week!!Southern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-2333269358191725382010-03-25T07:00:00.008-04:002010-03-25T08:45:13.366-04:00Upping the Girly Factor~pretty pink<div align="center"><a href="http://eachlittleworld.typepad.com/.a/6a00e554503eee883301053706ff63970b-pi"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 666px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 537px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://eachlittleworld.typepad.com/.a/6a00e554503eee883301053706ff63970b-pi" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://www.phoebehoward.net/">Phoebe Howard</a><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left">It's been a little chaotic in our house the past few days. Mr. Southern is working working working. I'm recovering/catching up from all my traveling (with another sinus infection). And our dear foster dog and youngest resident dog are on the outs with each right now. Life, of course, is still very good but all the bits of stress make me want a little pretty. The fastest way to pretty, to my mind, is Pink! Not sick-to-your-stomach Pepto Bismal pink. Pale, lovely, dreamy pink. </div><br /><div align="left">The reality is that I'll probably never to a pink room (unless one day we have a little girl) so here are some take-me-away pretty pinks.<br /></div><div align="left">Pink can be "grounded" with a healthy dose of brown or black, like this living room. While the walls (and it appears, ceilings) are done in pink, the dark brown of the chairs, sofa and light brown of the carpet serve to balance the girly factor.</div><br /><div align="center"><br /> </div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://www.lolalina.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/love-happiness-xlg-96361795.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 460px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 360px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.lolalina.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/love-happiness-xlg-96361795.jpg" border="0" /></a> House Beautiful via <a href="http://www.lolalina.com/2009/07/28/thinking-pink-part-1-walls/">Lolina</a><br /><br /></div><br /><div align="center"><br /></div><br /><div align="center">Suzanne Kasler seems to use a lot of pink, ranging from bright bright to more muted tones. Here, we see more chocolate browns, with the sofa and trimming on the draperies, and a pale- almost beige- pink. I <em>adore </em>this room and would love to see it from another angle!</div><br /><div align="center"><br /></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tKUwC7TQWt0/SyKWCy9q9OI/AAAAAAAAHwg/SuZbiDmpFRA/s800/Interiors%20-%20Windows%20Internet%20Explorer%2012112009%20125641%20PM.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 328px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 414px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tKUwC7TQWt0/SyKWCy9q9OI/AAAAAAAAHwg/SuZbiDmpFRA/s800/Interiors%20-%20Windows%20Internet%20Explorer%2012112009%20125641%20PM.jpg" border="0" /></a> via <a href="http://odietamoblog.blogspot.com/2009/12/suzanne-kasler-southern-elegance.html">Odi et Amo</a></div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">Another Kasler- I couldn't do just one! In this room, a taupe offsets the pop of pink accents. The sconces and side tables really give the space some glam.<br /></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_tKUwC7TQWt0/SyKWB2EYTvI/AAAAAAAAHwI/uY5jQ8Cmj6w/Interiors%20-%20Windows%20Internet%20Explorer%2012112009%20125524%20PM.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 575px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 415px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_tKUwC7TQWt0/SyKWB2EYTvI/AAAAAAAAHwI/uY5jQ8Cmj6w/Interiors%20-%20Windows%20Internet%20Explorer%2012112009%20125524%20PM.jpg" border="0" /></a>via <a href="http://odietamoblog.blogspot.com/2009/12/suzanne-kasler-southern-elegance.html">Odi et Amo</a><br /></div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">Similarly, the taupe/greenish wall color perfectly sets the stage for very sophisticated twin beds.<br /></div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 336px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 420px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://legacylinens.com/catalog/pc/catalog/pink-silk_bed_336_395_detail.jpg" border="0" /><a href="http://legacylinens.com/catalog/pc/viewPrd.asp?idcategory=42&idproduct=17115">Legacy Home</a></div><br /><div align="center"><br /></div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">This space really ups the glam factor with these fabulous drapes, Louis XV armchairs and frou-frou throw rug.<br /></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3440/3203919912_3c7b8a9af5_o.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 403px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3440/3203919912_3c7b8a9af5_o.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://citified.blogspot.com/2009/01/inspiration-pinkish-lavender-still.html">This is Glamorous</a><br /></div><br /><div align="center">Love the bedcrown over this bed, in a deeper shade of pink than the wall, and the crystal chandelier. And is that houndstooth I spy!?<br /><br /></div><br /><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzxh4hIp39HJ_IN2J13ta1zNqoX2sKfiqemPNZCAlWmMmq4HuE_2ldZgwxlwR1VFLbHUIjjkxFjz0Du7uoEUuNco2HMR1EAhLo5n1fBeCIKr-mSCIW0P-k4bWg8AnES53MMqE49a8dL8pL/s1600/pink+tufted+bedhead+-+Philip+Gorrivan+Designs.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 205px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzxh4hIp39HJ_IN2J13ta1zNqoX2sKfiqemPNZCAlWmMmq4HuE_2ldZgwxlwR1VFLbHUIjjkxFjz0Du7uoEUuNco2HMR1EAhLo5n1fBeCIKr-mSCIW0P-k4bWg8AnES53MMqE49a8dL8pL/s1600/pink+tufted+bedhead+-+Philip+Gorrivan+Designs.jpg" border="0" /></a> Phillip Gorrivan via <a href="http://villaanna.blogspot.com/2008/10/its-time-of-year-to-think-pink.html">Villa Anna</a></p><br /><p>Here are more unabashedly girly and glam, but still quite "liveable." Pale, pale pink, lots of white wood (furniture and floors), and fabulous natural light. And would you not LOVE to have that fireplace and tub in your bath?!<br /></p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 520px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 768px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://moodboard.typepad.com/.a/6a00d83539e9ed69e20128765cdb7d970c-800wi" border="0" /><br /><br /><div align="center"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 534px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 799px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://moodboard.typepad.com/.a/6a00d83539e9ed69e20120a759f5c5970b-800wi" border="0" /><br />both images Elle Decor via <a href="http://moodboard.typepad.com/my_weblog/2009/12/my-entry-5.html">Moodboard </a><br /></div><br /><div align="left"><br />Brightened up with white accessories and pop of green.<br /></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO-XF8GCpfHWEZ8eEoJvVDokxnPMm3ztowZL0de53EDDqq5-wukO0A4bYWvwwd2dqwz_kayM59gjIq3-ZRHYKZywDYGnhkS4b1aBVFI1upZkImZmWIWncxKNghLoDMo2NJdtlJqf8jWTo/s1600/house+to+home8.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO-XF8GCpfHWEZ8eEoJvVDokxnPMm3ztowZL0de53EDDqq5-wukO0A4bYWvwwd2dqwz_kayM59gjIq3-ZRHYKZywDYGnhkS4b1aBVFI1upZkImZmWIWncxKNghLoDMo2NJdtlJqf8jWTo/s1600/house+to+home8.jpg" border="0" /></a> House to Home</div><br /><div align="left"><br /><br />Can't forget Martha, who seems to feature lots of pink, either in others' rooms...</div><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ58Yi9RWEemFwdon6A8ETULF6b78UPmVt2L004Le1X3ElX7Ol7zdSLt20NMDWL4NT77l4vk3zdUnRQNy84PXV8h5K3rsSfxjCKjT9Qbda7k_bYEt_9Gio43lOyWkXtHl0p-2TCwu3OT3V/s1600/Martha-PinkBathroom.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 406px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 619px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ58Yi9RWEemFwdon6A8ETULF6b78UPmVt2L004Le1X3ElX7Ol7zdSLt20NMDWL4NT77l4vk3zdUnRQNy84PXV8h5K3rsSfxjCKjT9Qbda7k_bYEt_9Gio43lOyWkXtHl0p-2TCwu3OT3V/s1600/Martha-PinkBathroom.jpg" border="0" /></a> Martha Stewart Living via <a href="http://kec-contentedme.blogspot.com/2009/06/design-inspiraton-bathroom-thats-pretty.html">Contented Me</a> </div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="left">or her own home (or guest home).<br /><br /><br /></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/patriciagray1/R93Y9dmXSsI/AAAAAAAADqQ/nBnX18zs7sc/Martha+Stewart[5]"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 360px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 450px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/patriciagray1/R93Y9dmXSsI/AAAAAAAADqQ/nBnX18zs7sc/Martha+Stewart%5B5%5D" border="0" /></a> Farrow and Ball's Middleton Pink, via <a href="http://www.30elm.com/accounts/PatriciaGrayInc/blogs/3437">Patricia Gray</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="left"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 360px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkq22uK5RMtlyaFEJjoFuO5Gi9kHP511Ma2LXGnCR5w_Rygq1TkaOZZEdOlpt1ia5ct1YwU6NPhXZ-1coP1NYponrmLaqqcPt97MaxmQQ4hjPATTW2Oujmr9Dt7o4_pty6UO2RNaOQyE9W/s400/martha+pink.jpg" border="0" />More Martha, via <a href="http://southernchateau.blogspot.com/2009/02/think-pink.html">Southern Chateau</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="left"><br />Perhaps just a touch of pink? This room has several pink pieces (sofa, lampshades, and perhaps the duvet?) but is still decidedly pretty.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 460px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 360px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg400Q78MM7h4FtjdnEhPOal8739ak4HZlT69O5NYM5hh8yMZup6QdXQUAO7dQ67DunyGxcH-PGQ9x1uZfXUSNr9xK__kqKchlmQUGQYx6W7G1YOdyxni_JDmiSoO_BPzc9jHUsTpVsfzr/s1600/pink+and+pretty+bedroom+from+house+beautiful.jpg" border="0" /> House Beautiful via <a href="http://blog.ctcinteriordesign.com/2009/08/after-fun-weekend-in-charleston-sc-i-am.html">CTC Design</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="left">A great source for a pink lampshade-- I adore the green ribbon.<br /></div><a href="http://www.thebellacottage.com/images/productImages/TLJC102451a2925933717940.00351a2925933717940.JPG"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 288px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 511px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.thebellacottage.com/images/productImages/TLJC102451a2925933717940.00351a2925933717940.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><p align="center"></a><a href="http://www.thebellacottage.com/">Belle Cottage</a><br /></p><br /><br /><br /><br />And, with Spring here, cannot forget the option of pink flowers (faux or real).<br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://www.gracioushome.com/images/5007689_3.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.gracioushome.com/images/5007689_3.jpg" border="0" /></a> Diane James Pink Peonies, <a href="http://www.gracioushome.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay_10001_10051_29676_-1_13515_10004">Gracious Home</a> </p><br /><p align="center"></p><br /><p align="left">Hope y'all have a lovely day!</p><br /><p align="left"></p><br /><p align="left">-Emmie</p></div></div></div>Southern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-84670271434019198392010-03-24T10:00:00.002-04:002010-04-07T08:08:36.903-04:00To Market To Market<div>Mr. Southern and I went to <a href="http://www.americasmart.com/markets/">Market</a> over the weekend to meet with a potential vendor. Afterward, we tooled around AmericasMart, popping into shops that really, we really had no business in visiting. As I've mentioned, both Mr. Southern and I are in some way involved in retail and can gain access to AmericasMart. Which is sort of a blessing and a curse- while I love my job, I, probably like many others not in the design world, feel a twitch of envy when I see all the great products for which I could envision the perfect home. But alas, none fit into my "job role" (which is food, if you're wondering).<br /><br />One of my favorite predominately wholesale companies I've realized, is <a href="http://www.twoscompany.com/">Two's Company</a>. This will sound like an advertisement for them but I am in no way compensated for my love. :-) The diversity of the products is what gets me.<br /><br />Need to add some polish to the bath? May I suggest:<br /><a href="http://www.organize.com/carrington-set-3-covered-vanity-jars-two-company-reg.html" class="pagedLinkG"><img src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/organizeeverything1_2094_709113955" alt="Carrington Set of 3 Covered Vanity Jars by Two's Company®" border="0" hspace="5" vspace="5" /></a><a href="http://www.organize.com/chatelet-perfume-tray-two-company-reg.html" class="pagedLinkG"><img src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/organizeeverything1_2094_431394233" alt="Chatelet Perfume Tray by Two's Company®" border="0" hspace="5" vspace="5" /></a><a href="http://www.organize.com/timeless-crystals-pearls-box-two-company-reg.html" class="pagedLinkG"><img src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/organizeeverything1_2094_431557555" alt="Timeless Crystals and Pearls Box by Two's Company®" border="0" hspace="5" vspace="5" /></a><a href="http://www.organize.com/charlotte-antiqued-victorian-hand-mirror-set-two-company-reg.html" class="pagedLinkG"><img src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/organizeeverything1_2094_55542308" alt="Charlotte Antiqued Victorian Hand Mirror Set by Two's Company®" border="0" hspace="5" vspace="5" /></a><br />Carrington set of vanity jars, Chatelet Perfume Tray, Timeless Crystals and Pearls Box, Charlotte Antiqued Victorian Hand Mirror (all available at <a href="http://www.organize.com/brand-two-company-mindy-weiss.html?campaign=adwords&kw=two%27s%20company&gclid=CPbg7bik0aACFSoMswod2AXnAw">Organize.com</a> and numerous other sources).<br /><br />Entertaining? Here are some great "must-haves."<br /><a href="http://www.organize.com/va-bene-murano-glass-butter-knives-set-two-company-reg.html" class="pagedLinkG"><img src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/organizeeverything1_2094_431473386" alt="Va Bene Murano Glass Butter Knives Set by Two's Company®" border="0" hspace="5" vspace="5" /></a><a href="http://www.organize.com/be-seated-vase-place-card-holder.html" class="pagedLinkG"><img src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/organizeeverything1_2099_6773753617" alt="Be Seated™ Bud Vase/Place Card Holders - Set of 4 by Two's Company®" border="0" hspace="5" vspace="5" /></a><a href="http://www.organize.com/victoria-ribbon-cake-stand-set-two-company-reg.html" class="pagedLinkG"><img src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/organizeeverything1_2098_40408923" alt="Victoria Ribbon Cake Stand Set by Two's Company®" border="0" hspace="5" vspace="5" /></a><a href="http://www.elizabethsembellishments.com/Vases-by-Two-s-Company.html"><img src="http://www.elizabethsembellishments.com/images/C/Twos_Company_Vases.jpg" alt="Vases by Two's Company" height="150" width="150" /></a><br />Va Bene Murano Glass Butter Knives, Be Seated Bud Vase/Place Card Holders, Victoria Ribbon Cake Stand Set.<br /><br /><br />Dying for a seaside home and need some seashore accents to get you through?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.organize.com/large-shell-on-glass-stand-two-company-reg.html" class="pagedLinkG"><img src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/organizeeverything1_2094_429602908" alt="Large Shell on Glass Stand by Two's Company®" border="0" hspace="5" vspace="5" /></a><a href="http://www.organize.com/blue-coral-sculpture-on-glass-base-two-company-reg.html" class="pagedLinkG"><img src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/organizeeverything1_2094_429946623" alt="Blue Coral Sculpture on Glass Base by Two's Company®" border="0" hspace="5" vspace="5" /></a><a href="http://www.organize.com/triton-sea-shell-mosaic-wall-mirror-two-company-reg.html" class="pagedLinkG"><img src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/organizeeverything1_2094_72138784" alt="Triton Sea Shell Mosaic Wall Mirror by Two's Company®" border="0" hspace="5" vspace="5" /></a><br />Large shell on glass stand, Blue Coral Sculpture, Triton Sea Shell Mosaic<br /><br />And let's not forget the furniture.<br /><a href="http://www.organize.com/cote-d-azur-rectangle-white-bench-two-company-reg.html" class="pagedLinkG"><img src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/organizeeverything1_2094_429897788" alt="Cote d'Azur Rectangle White Bench by Two's Company®" border="0" hspace="5" vspace="5" /></a><a href="http://www.organize.com/golden-bamboo-butler-table-two-company-reg.html" class="pagedLinkG"><img src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/organizeeverything1_2094_431261843" alt="Golden Bamboo Butler Table by Two's Company®" border="0" hspace="5" vspace="5" /></a><a href="http://www.organize.com/golden-bamboo-5-shelf-stackable-tower-packed-two-company-reg.html" class="pagedLinkG"><img src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/organizeeverything1_2094_431236320" alt="Golden Bamboo 5-Shelf Stackable Tower Packed by Two's Company®" border="0" hspace="5" vspace="5" /></a><a href="http://www.organize.com/haute-couture-dress-jewelry-rack-two-company-reg.html" class="pagedLinkG"><img src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/organizeeverything1_2094_55531140" alt="Haute Couture Dress and Jewelry Rack by Two's Company®" border="0" hspace="5" vspace="5" /></a><br />Cote d'Azur bench (I need for my bathroom vanity!), Golden Bamboo Butler Table, Golden Bamboo 5-shelf Stackable tower (would this work for housing my china, Claire?), and Haute Couture Dress and Jewelry Rack (OK, probably <span style="font-style: italic;">not</span> furniture, but how cool is this!!??)<br /><br />And I'd be remiss if I didn't point out that they are the ones behind these fabulous prints.<br /><a href="http://www.organize.com/reflections-coral-wall-art-prints-set-two-company-reg.html" class="pagedLinkG"><img src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/organizeeverything1_2096_405848637" alt="Reflections Coral Wall Art Prints - Set of 6 by Two's Company®" border="0" hspace="5" vspace="5" /></a><a href="http://www.organize.com/marine-life-wall-art-print-set-two-company-reg.html" class="pagedLinkG"><img src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/organizeeverything1_2094_71822474" alt="Marine Life Wall Art Print Set by Two's Company®" border="0" hspace="5" vspace="5" /></a><a href="http://www.organize.com/wildflowers-wall-art-set-12-prints-two-company-reg.html" class="pagedLinkG"><img src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/organizeeverything1_2094_71877163" alt="Wildflowers Wall Art Set of 12 Prints by Two's Company®" border="0" hspace="5" vspace="5" /></a><a href="http://www.organize.com/aves-set-6-bird-wall-art-prints-two-company-reg.html" class="pagedLinkG"><img src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/organizeeverything1_2094_71839287" alt="Aves Set of 6 Bird Wall Art Prints by Two's Company®" border="0" hspace="5" vspace="5" /></a><br /><br />What I also learned though, is that Two's Company makes these fabulous enamel bracelets (just saw the nautical series at their showroom-- does anyone carry them? I'd love to get one for my MIL) and cute glass rings, which I actually picked up in Puerto Rico for myself and my "girls."<br /><br />The company was founded more than 40 years ago by Bob and Bobbie Gottlieb. Bobbie and son Tom are the current "two," keeping Two's Company a family-owned venture. If you're in the New-York area, I believe they have sample sales open to the public near the Elmsford HQ. Has anyone been?<br /><br />-Emmie<br /></div>Southern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-44285532877488104072010-03-21T21:44:00.006-04:002010-03-23T09:15:21.046-04:00Fruits & Vegetables and Health Care<div align="center"><a href="http://i.ehow.com/images/a04/ra/qv/fruit-tree-bear-fruit-800X800.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 478px; height: 599px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://i.ehow.com/images/a04/ra/qv/fruit-tree-bear-fruit-800X800.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.lindapaul.com/Under_The_Apple_Tree_Giclee_Prints.asp">Linda Paul</a><br /><br /></div><div align="center"><div align="left">Mr. Southern and I are watching C-SPAN for the coverage on the Health Care bills- one of the biggest (if not THE biggest) political topics in the United States right now. While I'm not about to jump into the middle of the debate with my lovely readers, I wanted to share a fascinating program I discovered last Fall at one of my Produce conventions (attended for work).</div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://wvs.topleftpixel.com/photos/pumpkin_field.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 410px; cursor: pointer; height: 266px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://wvs.topleftpixel.com/photos/pumpkin_field.jpg" border="0" /></a>Image via <a href="http://wvs.topleftpixel.com/05/10/31/">Daily Dose of Imagery</a> </div><br /><br /><div align="left"><br /></div><br /><br /><div align="left">The program? Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP). In short, the program uses funding to disseminate research results from the Department of Agriculture and to help low-income families and individuals learn how to purchase and prepare healthy dishes. EFNEP is available in all 50 states and 6 US territories.<br /><br /></div><br /><br /><div align="center"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 500px; height: 352px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://www.boggycreekfarm.com/media/2007%20Market%20and%20Crops/kale.field.10.24.07.jpg" border="0" />via <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.boggycreekfarm.com/">Boggy Creek Farm</a><br /></div><br /><br /><div align="left">What I find amazing is the great cost:benefit ratio this program has, when looking at the cost of the program versus and the benefit of reduced health care costs. In California, for example, $1 invested in nutrition education yielded between $3.67 and $8.34 in health care savings (research by Amy Block Joy, George Goldman, and Vijay Pradhan). See <a href="http://www.csrees.usda.gov/nea/food/efnep/pdf/research_studies.pdf">Research Studies of the EFNEP</a>.</div><div align="center"><br /><br /></div><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 500px; height: 500px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://www.umassvegetable.org/images/soils_crops_pest_mgt/crop/tomato1.jpg" border="0" /><br /><p align="center">via <a href="http://www.umassvegetable.org/">UMassVegetable.org</a> </p><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left">95% of adults reached through the program reported improved diet, including the equivalent of one additional cup of fruits and vegetables. To learn more about the program, visit <a href="http://www.nifa.usda.gov/nea/food/efnep/impacts.html">here</a>.</div><br /><br /><div align="left">While there were significant improvements in the consumption of fruits and veggies, most adults in the study remained below recommended levels. I would bet that many of our fruit and veggie intakes are below the recommended levels... and I'd also guess that it is not due to lack of access or economic hardship. </div><br /><br /><div align="left"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 385px; height: 357px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://chloesblog.bigmill.com/uploads/Image/Berries-in-field-lo-res-049.jpg" border="0" /></div><p align="center">via <a href="http://www.blogger.com/chloesblog.bigmill.com/berry-pickin-time/">Chloe'sBlog</a><br /><br /></p><br /><div align="left">Honestly, I have to stop and say, what the hell am I doing!? Yes, I'm still going to enjoy a few bad-for-me things (for example, I LOVE the improved chocolate:peanut butter ratio in the Reese's Peanut Butter Eggs--> less chocolate, more peanut butter). But I must do a better job of planning out meails to ensure that I enjoy more fresh produce. Because it's yummy and good for me! (Remember, in the study mentioned above, $1 spent in eductation about food yielded a roughly $4-$8 reduction in health care costs. I know what I need to eat.... what would happen if I actually did it all the time!?)</div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">And because I care about y'all, I'd like to encourage you to up the number of fresh fruits and veggies you eat as well. Not because I'm so good at it, or on a soap box... just because it's good for you!</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 500px; height: 381px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://blog.lib.umn.edu/carls064/freealonzo/apples.jpg" border="0" /></div><p align="center">via <a href="http://blog.lib.umn.edu/carls064/freealonzo/2008/03/the-apple-orchard.html">Lost Forest After Dark</a></p><p align="center"></p><p align="left">Have a great start to the week!</p><p align="left"></p><p align="left">Emmie</p>Southern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-8220605476239761692010-03-16T21:03:00.003-04:002010-04-07T08:08:54.144-04:00The Twin Cities: Two Much of a Good Thing<div align="center"><a href="http://minneapplerealestate.files.wordpress.com/2008/06/698px-minneapolis_warehouse_district.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 698px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 599px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://minneapplerealestate.files.wordpress.com/2008/06/698px-minneapolis_warehouse_district.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><div align="center">So I mentioned I"m up in the Great White North as I jokingly call this place. I'm up in Minneapolis, Minnesota- a city I moved to after I graduated grad school. While I'm thrilled to be out of the cold (mostly) and back South, I have very fond memories of this place. First of all, it represented my first big move by myself and some sense of my claim for independence. (Of course, I then left my city and my job to move to Atlanta for Mr. Southern, so there goes my whole Independent Woman schpiel. But, I did make the choice and am happy I did.)</div><div align="center"><br /><br /></div><div align="center">For those who have never ventured to Minneapolis or St. Paul, you may be recalling movies like Fargo (which was actually filmed, in part, in Minneapolis). Or perhaps Grumpy Old Men. While there's a nugget of truth in these films, the reality is a much more diverse- and engaging- cultured town. With so many large companies based in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, the Twin Cities are rather cosmopolitan. Great dining, great art (including theatre), and great shopping.</div><div align="center"><br /><br /></div><div align="center">For example, when you think outdoor sculpture, do you envision the Spoon Bridge and Cherry? That's here in Minneapolis. <img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 600px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 560px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://media.walkerart.org/1671600.jpg" border="0" /></div><div align="center">Claes Oldenburg & Coosje van Bruggen at the Walker Art Museum (a fabulous museum, by the way).<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><p align="center">Tonight, I took my team to the first Coal Fired Pizza joint in Minneapolis- <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blacksheeppizza.com%E2%80%8E">Black Sheep Pizza</a>- and got to walk through my old stomping grounds, The Warehouse District (aka North Loop). I, in fact, lived on the third floor of the building of The Black Sheep (side note: so glad they were not there when I lived in the building, or I would have gained 20 pounds, easily.)<br /><br />With the cities' Midwest "sensibilties" you might be quick to assume much of the Design in this area is bungalow or craftsman style. And there is a good bit of that around town (and I LOVE it! Especially when envisioning a warm and cozy home in the cold cold winter. )<br /></p><a href="http://www.bungalowclub.org/"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.bungalowclub.org/images/WindowBox018med.jpg" border="0" /> </a><p align="center"><br /><a href="http://www.bungalowclub.org/">Bungalow Club </a><br /></p><a href="http://minneapplerealestate.files.wordpress.com/2008/06/bungalow_1002.gif"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 575px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 405px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://minneapplerealestate.files.wordpress.com/2008/06/bungalow_1002.gif" border="0" /> </a><p align="center"> <a href="http://minneapplerealestate.files.wordpress.com/">Minneapolis Real Estate</a><br /><br /><br /><br /></p><a href="http://minneapplerealestate.files.wordpress.com/2008/06/mpls1.jpeg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 341px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 256px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://minneapplerealestate.files.wordpress.com/2008/06/mpls1.jpeg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://minneapplerealestate.files.wordpress.com/">Minneapolis Real Estate</a></p><br /><p align="center"></p><p align="left">But there are some very sleek loft spaces here too. For example, Andrew Flesher's Minneapolis loft, featured in Loft Living and <a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/uimages/chicago/1-27-09loft1.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/chicago/inspiration/traditionalmodern-loft-in-minneapolis-loftlife-magazine-074879&usg=__dSZjBT1-RMbZ3a3sE6DTQjEK3Bw=&h=525&w=540&sz=45&hl=en&start=14&um=1&itbs=1&tbnid=bmrkZzTsdAnL6M:&tbnh=128&tbnw=132&prev=/images?q=minneapolis+loft&um=1&hl=en&gl=us&tbs=isch:1">Apartment Therapy</a>.</p><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 570px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 555px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://loftlifemag.com/blogimages/aloftfirst.jpg" border="0" /><br />Others, like these:<br /><br /><br /><p align="left"></p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.minnesotas-real-estate.com/photos/12-lc_thumb1.jpg" border="0" /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 293px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://photos.rentlinx.com/Large/330315.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><p align="left">They also have some "crazy" Modern updates too, similar to what we see in Atlanta (and I do not mean this in a pejorative way at all). </p><a href="http://www.midwesthomemag.com/core/includes/phpThumb/phpThumb.php?src=/media/Midwest-Home/April-May-2009/Razing-the-Roof/RazingRoof.jpg&w=563&q=75&aoe=0"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 394px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.midwesthomemag.com/core/includes/phpThumb/phpThumb.php?src=/media/Midwest-Home/April-May-2009/Razing-the-Roof/RazingRoof.jpg&w=563&q=75&aoe=0" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://www.midwesthomemag.com/media/Midwest-Home/April-May-2009/Raising-the-Roof/JackieKitchen.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 290px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.midwesthomemag.com/media/Midwest-Home/April-May-2009/Raising-the-Roof/JackieKitchen.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://www.midwesthomemag.com/media/Midwest-Home/April-May-2009/Razing-the-Roof/">Midwest Home</a></div><br />So I can't say "Twin Cities" and omit St. Paul, though I don't know St. Paul as well. What I can tell you is that I would ADORE a house on Summit Avenue, reportedly a site of refuge for some of the Chicago gangsters of the early 1900s. Regardless, let's take a look.... (photos from real estate listings).<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoHoNr7Rth8wfYGYbglourHaNOmKDXMLrQWTmBZIir6sqGv6Nvqu3UVf3PBQKhRT529A4aHZtg2p_UoeJOUn53gs_UzEAqnDsmhOJZK1jrx3-tSYCOmEalH8bMxXEj7vkUvx-ZhBXUStY/s400/295+Summit.JPG"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoHoNr7Rth8wfYGYbglourHaNOmKDXMLrQWTmBZIir6sqGv6Nvqu3UVf3PBQKhRT529A4aHZtg2p_UoeJOUn53gs_UzEAqnDsmhOJZK1jrx3-tSYCOmEalH8bMxXEj7vkUvx-ZhBXUStY/s400/295+Summit.JPG" border="0" /> </a><p align="center">295 Summit<br /><br /></p><p align="center"><a href="http://imgprd.nrtwebservices.com/minneapolis/properties/JPG_Large_Tan/EBF/9AB8345C-ED29-423D-BDDD-8CF7271E5EBF.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 425px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 319px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://imgprd.nrtwebservices.com/minneapolis/properties/JPG_Large_Tan/EBF/9AB8345C-ED29-423D-BDDD-8CF7271E5EBF.jpg" border="0" /></a>266 Summit </p><p><br /></p><a href="http://photos.listhub.net/RMLSMN/3848150/0"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 468px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 398px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://photos.listhub.net/RMLSMN/3848150/0" border="0" /> </a><p align="center"></p><p align="center">476 Summit<br /></p><p align="center"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 425px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 319px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://imgprd.nrtwebservices.com/minneapolis/properties/JPG_Large_Tan/E07/25BB1E3F-226C-474B-B492-9BBEB02CFE07.jpg" border="0" /> 251 Summit </p><p align="center"><br /><a href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2407/2683064199_517a981a23.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 370px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2407/2683064199_517a981a23.jpg" border="0" /></a> 807 Summit </p><p><br /></p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2NNH7muRsqEnShRLHCaZ_iG97KifqLipa_eesnwQjdfmBkcJleRJIfu0R_BkG8UAGsT8dDLD-xL4l0pKG3pZhtvpf6MCUNtx9pum-NccRwQ0qM8NloIB2quHjUi-Yo0bGgTEpZ8wKvzM/s400/807+Summit.JPG"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2NNH7muRsqEnShRLHCaZ_iG97KifqLipa_eesnwQjdfmBkcJleRJIfu0R_BkG8UAGsT8dDLD-xL4l0pKG3pZhtvpf6MCUNtx9pum-NccRwQ0qM8NloIB2quHjUi-Yo0bGgTEpZ8wKvzM/s400/807+Summit.JPG" border="0" /> </a><p align="center">955 Summit</p><p align="left"><br />For more great homes, and the source of the photos from Jennifer Kirby, please visit <a href="http://www.minneapolisluxuryrealestateblog.com/">Minneapolis- St. Paul Luxury Real Estate</a>. </p><p align="left">And I have to give a shout-out to my relatives, though we've sadly lost touch over the years- at <a href="http://www.grethenhouse.com/">The Grethen House</a>- (visit their blog <a href="http://www.grethenhouse.blogspot.com/">here</a>) THE source for cutting edge, quality fashion. The company was started by my Grandmother's sister, Greta, and is run by my grandmother's niece (Greta's daughter). HUGE honor.</p><p align="left">And lastly, a personal note. I mentioned leaving my job and heading South for Mr. Southern. I know that once one gets married, all the other little anniversaries fall by the wayside, but I had to mention that two years ago tonight, Mr. Southern asked me to marry him (after he asked for the blessing of my mom and stepdad, as well as daddy and stepmom). I love him so much and am so thankful he's a part of my life. I miss you sweetie and can't wait to see you Thursday! :-)</p><p align="left">-Emmie</p>Southern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-37432648697198514712010-03-14T18:35:00.007-04:002010-04-07T08:09:10.016-04:00Vieux San Juan<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448647985720358034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 283px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCcIVjF4aRylCx2KrmXUF2SveH0HcuBFnIlGF1sTWzjr30h6urqbIO6tXtirjljdWAaQb0e1nzJ2rlky88gI6OqsAD9VsuSkxYyaYPHYwlJNwqjwsfvjazduGecHYvTGbMtQLeKqlPYDFo/s400/DSC03495.JPG" border="0" />Puerto Rico was a fascinating territory to explore. I know several folks from Puerto Rico and have always been impressed with their sense of pride for their country. There is a ton of natural beauty in Puerto Rico- particularly as you move outside of San Juan. On the other hand, there is also a lot of poverty in the country.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>One of my favorite parts was touring Old San Juan. While discovered in the mid 1400s, the city was first "settled" by the Spanish in the early 1500s. Old San Juan has maintained much of the colonial Spanish Architecture. </div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p>This is the city wall built around Old San Juan. Love the contrast of the wall and the newer bank building.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqbyfIAowrBQIdsziqgnJHLrCgI1FNovLRePMm-78QaOQ8SXFWTM975AaCds46ToGkPzfuuO5Y68W9n4PxctWCEnO1_mWMC2mTNsPTIKqCmJrT4o4sSkt1xmwzk666Hwm4DOZSRzVlmxU2/s1600-h/DSC03482.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448642476617691970" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 330px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqbyfIAowrBQIdsziqgnJHLrCgI1FNovLRePMm-78QaOQ8SXFWTM975AaCds46ToGkPzfuuO5Y68W9n4PxctWCEnO1_mWMC2mTNsPTIKqCmJrT4o4sSkt1xmwzk666Hwm4DOZSRzVlmxU2/s400/DSC03482.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Can't show old San Juan and miss the San Jose church, which hopefully will be undergoing renovation. I LOVE the lines of this building... and see the quatrafoil!</p><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOMQgV6oddnSxB2fFFziMArCpdl3GB8H2Tz04uB6iU_cU3cNDUQE-dswPauhUK-lend5GJYNxMRuXJF1qnRdCIrG3hBfWe_bErQN0plCA7FdXxT2hxQ90DxzfgIQxo8tZmJR_lW0bx27z0/s1600-h/DSC03465.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448642463427637218" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 311px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOMQgV6oddnSxB2fFFziMArCpdl3GB8H2Tz04uB6iU_cU3cNDUQE-dswPauhUK-lend5GJYNxMRuXJF1qnRdCIrG3hBfWe_bErQN0plCA7FdXxT2hxQ90DxzfgIQxo8tZmJR_lW0bx27z0/s400/DSC03465.JPG" border="0" /></a> More quatrafoil.. and fantastic arches.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448642434814241314" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisN4zK2gnOAvNwsTbUmLwlTPdxb39Z9XsRO_W6wVdvE-FAM4nxtTZ3iwWASnrvVgjrXnAmThKS-4BXvhht0Pdx-kcwZWt2YGLbsvLXfD-0KN-NiFU0WABYsP3e48pv3RrUlF8c313DKPQx/s400/DSC03448.JPG" border="0" /></div>And look at the beautiful mosaic and intricate detailing here.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448649672749066898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 303px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNLKHGNmMtUeojf-q5Yuq6gPFe_u3pnTopmUaZH2jOyBaVboD-K75NH8TpcNcFIo60vvP54egb9QLXPmqnkvs3cXtu8ge4twXnOhCu1vv0YOM3O7BtvFLl8OuQ_TqNjZ6f7SYv-p-XUaHc/s400/DSC03518.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><div>Can a doorway get any better than this?</div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448644355572492002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8P4erRjn6Y6N8j2gkLiiEE8uoXuWU81XGP6RhGBhEgoY7RWyLp9uTPRA0fa-EQlBJcoRDsHRcVUNgwQRJrgt5mIXcqblHC74GkPQLe3e39GHtNijp39tTDPL1upwkxFLWhqCP3srNzLF-/s400/DSC03493.JPG" border="0" /></div><br /><br /><br /><div>And this is the view through the doorway. I love the plaster walls, dark wood bannister, tiled stairwell. Gorgeous.</div><br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448644346614466338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMSAHFRWWwf7EMAba8tykbsVsjwED-x3yUc5OKiY8wiGYIBTmwQez8ALXinfsO8XU7zyoSXCAFQIbLIocmTEO7_Gs25dKkYWkRhKAvthrviSJswcPjUpY_anHwjBG4Uao2Bfg9QBw7trvy/s400/DSC03492.JPG" border="0" /></div><br /><br /><div>And THESE are shutters. </div><br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448644363751328002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcOGM5E952MHhIq_akGiFJ6oJkFZHn71DpVsLyw2S0jM1GMzXdlFLjVGEcnobJwMMvWFUqNqmHLo-hKtiDFza9NuNUrLr9ntEL_FeJI3Vfz9ZuWzJFXwBmlYMyBjh6gF31U16i1WzLe5S7/s400/DSC03497.JPG" border="0" /></div><br /><div>Love the varied bright colors and all the balconies. </div><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAiZySwVE9eIFnuG4ixHXgj8ExLh-dFWEuzcgDI2l0gPX-U_cPrGIlmpARR8fc2AWRQlWpxGJJhr3Gpt4F-rqqRC066XrK_QCf1krW8f9F2ovEEmDp_Q1rH4EamXVRVJ604-VZNqfV9KeL/s1600-h/DSC03467.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448642444280935154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAiZySwVE9eIFnuG4ixHXgj8ExLh-dFWEuzcgDI2l0gPX-U_cPrGIlmpARR8fc2AWRQlWpxGJJhr3Gpt4F-rqqRC066XrK_QCf1krW8f9F2ovEEmDp_Q1rH4EamXVRVJ604-VZNqfV9KeL/s400/DSC03467.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448644333302672754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidkyP6ZtnUr8fDVvGDMRSd04BzOkoKUG1xLgyLsqgVBnFai8bjsHRwMdJRDisanh5z3Mr9mSW1fRdsZ3pWFPJuJ-BEPh9DUBhBVubTbABkLn3qab55qaPouNgJmxX3TpDFSNMAhHHKc5qB/s400/DSC03491.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQyMU6m1ZRbnF-BapRrRFTFb8Fy0sHc3s9Bx1uCp7IiUkxgPBppONvPDnSwRz694ImGPAEIjiqYqCOhU7gE-STF8oEAxX1TrHBO2czMUu4tqV4iVRCymoiuyC_2cjDr3Iy6Q6nLJza0CA_/s1600-h/DSC03508.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448647994964444130" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQyMU6m1ZRbnF-BapRrRFTFb8Fy0sHc3s9Bx1uCp7IiUkxgPBppONvPDnSwRz694ImGPAEIjiqYqCOhU7gE-STF8oEAxX1TrHBO2czMUu4tqV4iVRCymoiuyC_2cjDr3Iy6Q6nLJza0CA_/s400/DSC03508.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />My dream house includes a bedroom with a balcony like this-- love the idea of opening the doors and having sheer drapes billowing about.</div><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Dv42WaqtC_49oXtEUxOvaB7fGquZ66Ei-_Jqxnp-Xktg9HT4ivSJ4ReRH0flRHeho1JXLUA88GLbJubR8RxZ3LnRqjAAwCcxJ7gOAWoPZ4gsujK8DgC1-o5TiQjvKQR27D_xtj86pN7f/s1600-h/DSC03509.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448647958308042754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Dv42WaqtC_49oXtEUxOvaB7fGquZ66Ei-_Jqxnp-Xktg9HT4ivSJ4ReRH0flRHeho1JXLUA88GLbJubR8RxZ3LnRqjAAwCcxJ7gOAWoPZ4gsujK8DgC1-o5TiQjvKQR27D_xtj86pN7f/s400/DSC03509.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6VvjkY3zaPpbAZZtKQzoBOXipPS0KQZu1K7WNuN01BGABaimtDzG8gADwGOjjyZe9LcFn6xRBXZzKexBe3aA1HvcH4UR1YaIswUG2nO5b9z_HfDqLhvGtv891FRJWJcCMBU9g-cUljgqy/s1600-h/DSC03511.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448647970890375618" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6VvjkY3zaPpbAZZtKQzoBOXipPS0KQZu1K7WNuN01BGABaimtDzG8gADwGOjjyZe9LcFn6xRBXZzKexBe3aA1HvcH4UR1YaIswUG2nO5b9z_HfDqLhvGtv891FRJWJcCMBU9g-cUljgqy/s400/DSC03511.JPG" border="0" /></a> </div><div>And just beyond these beautiful buildings is the sea...</div></div><br /><br /><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448649660276783586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoHZbVaFTigYWkZjNnHby17lUXijBlcd9OXFEDMv-AKRuBpwGrqw_dcegq4xuQt0Q6RB72j1KZGjMvQvmJInc4GVsjJnufz4Xsu7SKDWfvB6k3ysbKehsd4v1DDzTAmTJ7H60s-VgRVyAS/s400/DSC03506.JPG" border="0" /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPx9Cq1nGtYXfxb-G5uaolahKSBa-QoWk-KrImoylAruL7MosXjRSG-p3JBIRzkZc3ly_-Ug4nHA4iUpFi-Ac0ZzH3kWcSs_BHXS1GL_BDBh1a0Aw_MyGBnbMhsNmO4Y0uI-eqJUACr2VJ/s1600-h/DSC03519.JPG"></a>Hope you enjoyed the mini-tour. Have a great week!</p><p> </p><p>Emmie<br /></p><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoHZbVaFTigYWkZjNnHby17lUXijBlcd9OXFEDMv-AKRuBpwGrqw_dcegq4xuQt0Q6RB72j1KZGjMvQvmJInc4GVsjJnufz4Xsu7SKDWfvB6k3ysbKehsd4v1DDzTAmTJ7H60s-VgRVyAS/s1600-h/DSC03506.JPG"></a> </div>Southern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-45333367367586794502010-03-12T08:42:00.006-05:002010-03-22T09:25:12.788-04:00All Modern Giveaway Winner and Puerto RicoThank you to those who entered the giveaway! I was thrilled to do it and hope to offer future ones. And a huge thanks to <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.csnstores.com/">CSN stores </a>for sponsoring this event. Check them out for any household needs from <a href="http://www.allbarstools.com/">barstools </a>to pillows to fruit bowls!<br /><br /><br />The winner is <a href="http://everythingleb.blogspot.com/">LindsB</a>, the first commenter, who selected the gorgeous <a href="http://www.allmodern.com/Blomus-68722-68723-RY1659.html">Blomus </a>bowl.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447812106813126418" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 400px; height: 250px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtYX3N-Rcddiw_epFauCKY9aEbgqsA3mfQ-Ch7AZQQALxQvXnUxV-mnVGUlIFANQ6aQpRIFMkCx91rjxDlTZpd1cGOezUCXrfSlYTMFXvsQU_fiF_tvZ3EmaPkniNXFZ7S3oI3a-XtRKQh/s400/random.JPG" border="0" /><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 400px; height: 400px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://common1.csnimages.com/lf/1/hash/689/1693988/1/Ondea+Round+Bowl.jpg" border="0" /><br />It couldn't have gone to a sweeter gal!<br /><br />I am uploading my hundreds of pictures from this week in Puerto Rico. Most are work-related and unless you're interested in my "corporate espionage" the photos aren't that exciting (believe me, it sounds MUCH more scintillating than it actually is). I did take a morning of downtime today, however, to walk Old San Juan.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCSYUhQfcASHbjER0bWpY-7WtIDyh6Q16b7c25I5eCvCkIS77t1c39MS8cSEt349yFkqpyZkxCkTkBCEWzcM-o4j75w79Q4nfQ3GKi_WM9J4ReNvbBtyd0CsUiPzLOJAn4M5L1yIOF_hCy/s1600-h/DSC03467.JPG"></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzPCTMZQbwQfbf7V7OiCkAC8f9cMSINqAyLmW4Dj4L4w4v7UKrAfvgiwKUvvtnOFk62x1xhGNX7Bc0tVHrVH-FO9b3rqeUxi3BdjwUYufFKZISrosVfVBdtRqGBp2On-tfqTII7m6NRXT7/s1600-h/DSC03501.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447818990802747170" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 300px; height: 400px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzPCTMZQbwQfbf7V7OiCkAC8f9cMSINqAyLmW4Dj4L4w4v7UKrAfvgiwKUvvtnOFk62x1xhGNX7Bc0tVHrVH-FO9b3rqeUxi3BdjwUYufFKZISrosVfVBdtRqGBp2On-tfqTII7m6NRXT7/s400/DSC03501.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdSDg1w-K3MoR6kXabCXjf_Ohk0JtdVXHMuY5EhxHmFIiejjvXy_XOOzedguCmgLau2aGqJSqS6BfFf5ohqhodOYPIFT_YlWTc1GUa0KH4qcCCWmROUqxDJxqxxCBBt5PhKdIh-kUncE-O/s1600-h/DSC03467.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447818987431223234" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 400px; height: 300px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdSDg1w-K3MoR6kXabCXjf_Ohk0JtdVXHMuY5EhxHmFIiejjvXy_XOOzedguCmgLau2aGqJSqS6BfFf5ohqhodOYPIFT_YlWTc1GUa0KH4qcCCWmROUqxDJxqxxCBBt5PhKdIh-kUncE-O/s400/DSC03467.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnmHH1kx_YTcZ2jx-SI5xm3DarHYHu33PrXHrpQnZNhPSxFzMqm-KbfvCAQdREp9mXg_KwTkgPKvwI9bEVtGK7nK1_2Eb9lJOzTMbQd9j2KYzrpm81VN8FtBf5VAenObiPdAj6bgrMuXjV/s1600-h/DSC03456.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447818979465161538" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 400px; height: 300px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnmHH1kx_YTcZ2jx-SI5xm3DarHYHu33PrXHrpQnZNhPSxFzMqm-KbfvCAQdREp9mXg_KwTkgPKvwI9bEVtGK7nK1_2Eb9lJOzTMbQd9j2KYzrpm81VN8FtBf5VAenObiPdAj6bgrMuXjV/s400/DSC03456.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijcEB6CmwPjAbXg2RyApHxSexi9u4N4TuWegknosxNWdJazHH4QQxRFfKXOfusfKtUxdm70atZ94MfduQlRiN-NGmJChm89Ot9LHGQ4Tv2xTyez3f5PhwCDj3KnTLMqOycruAEhX40sANK/s1600-h/DSC03489.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447820569616955090" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 300px; height: 400px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijcEB6CmwPjAbXg2RyApHxSexi9u4N4TuWegknosxNWdJazHH4QQxRFfKXOfusfKtUxdm70atZ94MfduQlRiN-NGmJChm89Ot9LHGQ4Tv2xTyez3f5PhwCDj3KnTLMqOycruAEhX40sANK/s400/DSC03489.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK-PBV4ibBSt8-wLeXXUJGz2bCNxiRoLg5veufgwfokSpsoQ1cefhoUx5n3_ONyMnKM_q8ueE44ebCYBJG2tfHCxUD4zVGIfJnL9Yjn8bJnS7BVxnXhJFuuf8tXILY2bHfbbkob8jCZ6aq/s1600-h/DSC03503.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447820556219810866" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 400px; height: 300px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK-PBV4ibBSt8-wLeXXUJGz2bCNxiRoLg5veufgwfokSpsoQ1cefhoUx5n3_ONyMnKM_q8ueE44ebCYBJG2tfHCxUD4zVGIfJnL9Yjn8bJnS7BVxnXhJFuuf8tXILY2bHfbbkob8jCZ6aq/s400/DSC03503.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div>I realize this is not a travel blog (but given my travel of late, perhaps it should be!) but I'll do a follow-up post tomorrow with musings from my trip. One last big one next week- this time to the Great White North.</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>Take care!</div><br /><div>Emmie<br /></div><div> </div></div></div></div>Southern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-83112534411292950672010-03-08T20:22:00.005-05:002010-03-09T17:55:21.367-05:00My First Giveaway- AllModern Home Unique Options for the Guest Bedroom<div align="left">I'm thrilled to offer to you my first giveaway, courtesy of <a href="http://www.allmodern.com/">AllModern Home</a>, part of CSN stores, who sells everything from <a href="http://www.allbarstools.com/">barstools </a>and bar accessories to modern bedding and bunk beds. Carrying on with my home decor theme, I thought it'd be fun to showcase several items designed originally for the kitchen, but equally (in my humble opinion) at home in the guest room.</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"><br /><br /></div><div align="left"><br /></div><div align="left">One lovely guest suggested a tray for my collection of things. I've become a big fan of trays of late but never have found the right one. Here are a few options that I think would work well! </div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://common1.csnimages.com/lf/1/hash/1263/805490/1/Ufficio+Tecnico+Alessi+11%2E81%22+Mercurio+Round+Tray.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.allmodern.com/Alessi-146-30-AAS1551.html">Alessi Ufficio Tecnico Alessi 11.81" Mercurio Round Tray</a> </p><p align="left"><br />Another option (which also happens to microwave and oven safe!).<br /><br /></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446443846150549602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 260px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggkYddnwtuJsG5m90txWR8lOLTbbVaTcONJEmGP0DHe5fnwmTBMS2pbXZ59ABccNxK0rVjzz_jZNfzFwbNo8OLqPkJg-wYG_tqGPY4WIyo0Uqgm1MWllZYroHp91xBKFzL3_2FQbuyMDmQ/s400/tray.JPG" border="0" /> <a href="http://www.allmodern.com/Working-Class-Studio-00161-WCL1067.html">Working Class Studio </a>Un Petit Tour de Lacoste Ceramic Platter, illustration by SCAD professor Allan Drummond<br /><p align="center"></p><br /><p align="left">Perhaps a bowl to corrall some mints, candy, other bits and pieces? Love the green and white in this one. </p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://common1.csnimages.com/lf/1/hash/2516/772952/1/Suomi+Rangoon+22+oz%2E+Multi%2DFunctional+Bowl.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.allmodern.com/Rosenthal-17000-407757-15394-ROT2032.html">Rosenthal Suomi Rangoon </a>22 oz. Multi-Functional Bowl (note: one bowl)<br /></p><br /><br /><br /><p align="left"></p>Or maybe this little number with some fresh fruit (or flowers) by the bed.<br /><br /><br /><br /><p align="left"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://common1.csnimages.com/lf/1/hash/689/1693988/1/Ondea+Round+Bowl.jpg" border="0" /></p><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://www.allmodern.com/Blomus-68722-68723-RY1659.html">Blomus </a>Ondea Round Bowl</p><br /><br /><p align="center"></p><br /><br /><p align="left">And of course, we can't forget a carafe. All Modern has several great ones, but these stuck out to me. <img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://common2.csnimages.com/lf/1/hash/2102/241605/1/tranSglass%AE+Lidded+Carafe.jpg" border="0" /></p><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://www.allmodern.com/Artecnica-F-5021-AS-AIC1028.html">Artecnica </a>tranSglass® Lidded Carafe</p><p align="center"></p><p align="left">Which item could you use in your guest bedroom (or master bed, or kitchen...). Please leave a comment and let me know which items you'd love to have. Deadline for entry is Thursday at 9:00AM Eastern Standard Time and I will announce the winner on Friday! Rules for entry: you must be a follower; if you do not have a blog with contact info, please leave me your email address!</p><p align="left">I hope y'alls week is off to a great start! Again, <strong>thank you so much </strong>for your patience during my crazy travel schedule, failure to comment on your great blogs, and lack of consistent posting. I've left Florida and headed farther South to San Juan, Puerto Rico. I just switched hotels - after first one kept losing power. (PS, if anyone knows the brand manager for the Waldorf Astoria properties, I'd love to chat with them!).</p><p align="left"></p><p align="left">-Emmie</p>Southern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-7054332021610575782010-03-04T17:26:00.008-05:002010-04-07T08:09:37.872-04:00A Look at my "Sea" room... and All Modern giveaway preview<div>Back when I was actually blogging ;-), I wrote my list of recommended items for hosting guests. Unfortunately, I did not take any photos of my hostess preparations. I'm out of town AGAIN and have "Auntie DiDi" staying with our dogs. While our friend is doing a "service" for us, I certainly want her to feel welcome in our home so I employ the same strategies for her as when planning for guests (although I forgot the fresh flowers, so it's not quite perfect). Also, I dangled the carrot of a giveaway last week but did not give any details- I'm thrilled to offer a choice of several great items from <a href="http://www.allmodern.com/">All Modern</a>- great pieces that can be used in the kitchen or in creating a perfect guest room space.</div><br /><div></div><div></div><br /><div>Without further adieu, here is one of our guest rooms, which I affectionately nicknamed the "Sea" room, aka the "C" room, or the first letter of our last name.</div><br /><p>Here's an overview of the room.<br /></p><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444913153713944466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqx1podzVMQqjEhNdvCfPxiMIiote-EBSix3HzvYbzSyYh-E7zDWjtihI_jxkm0L9TzqVYbrkliYD3AFLewGnpn9hjZvd1bDsUueV65Fhpy9g0bhXrelEtenbVIbTaRXwCLyyUKeCJ-Vc0/s400/DSC03073.JPG" border="0" />WOW that ceiling fan light looks bright.</p><br /><p>OK, there are some flowers- my faux orchids here (they're not too bad are they?) along with the bottle of water. I'm using a bottle of water as I haven't decided on the bedside carafes I'd like for the guest bedroom. Dresser is an antique, from one of my grandparent's guest rooms, that I'm considering painting white (again, much to Mr. Southern's dismay). Parasols, in the silver vase, are from our wedding.</p><br /><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh_JBFnwkETL3d6QWwaIULtqzrCC6H3QOUXOlkGo8OBdSH7uMo0mGOASVEXp0vW67MecODH8frZWBETazGjxdskntDxoSDdjsYWmJk2SpKTpDyME9zuaSWiVx8LyckYbQN7WaqaaUmS9RB/s1600-h/DSC03075.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444913159464068546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh_JBFnwkETL3d6QWwaIULtqzrCC6H3QOUXOlkGo8OBdSH7uMo0mGOASVEXp0vW67MecODH8frZWBETazGjxdskntDxoSDdjsYWmJk2SpKTpDyME9zuaSWiVx8LyckYbQN7WaqaaUmS9RB/s400/DSC03075.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Slightly different angle, but you see the bedding.</p><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdp1-a14h1RPy5QJUwSqTenEwRwJ88Sw1YFEbUX4yRF5Qvv772kcWFKlGqnv9hKGb6YCzVOH3KruJRd4P8vqaT9bds_mv4K_qhikGcjl5OX3fLe9K00xZk5Hnb11g81YetarRhG9vpySnW/s1600-h/DSC03068.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444913150982335186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdp1-a14h1RPy5QJUwSqTenEwRwJ88Sw1YFEbUX4yRF5Qvv772kcWFKlGqnv9hKGb6YCzVOH3KruJRd4P8vqaT9bds_mv4K_qhikGcjl5OX3fLe9K00xZk5Hnb11g81YetarRhG9vpySnW/s400/DSC03068.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />And a close-up of one of the pillows I won on <a href="http://www.completely-coastal.com/">Completely Coastal's </a>Giveaway from <a href="http://www.obxtradingroup.com/">OBX Trading</a> Group! I LOVE these and they are so perfect for this room.</div><br /><div><br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444911020591938146" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_2qsvzN5mXfe3NWmh3odUuCCkU4N7f1HEbMla2hiW5zcNoXBB3cI89CGwoASLREFmDPYUrmfzXso3Zz9efjp3JppgvVThKJ6imvoKzHmGTg_EfoLBmVoyxVhAPDwxlpuaVwaI1GVrYeus/s400/DSC03065.JPG" border="0" /></div><br /><div>Here is the other pillow from OBX Trading Group/Completely Coastal, resting on the chair in the corner of the room. Seriously, weren't these pillows MADE for this room?!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL6yhHHlT2ine8c-OG3jcuLpb0UP2lMjD0hl8DRaFwVQePIbPdbbjOhrkpDcgH2Ix_9gp9qNQn649ixKzU2a5j-eLrqMVo4vP-IYrcZJivYCFEGdJ0eJvnL0J20tvnwI9UbNv2FHTklrgh/s1600-h/DSC03067.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444911024389552754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL6yhHHlT2ine8c-OG3jcuLpb0UP2lMjD0hl8DRaFwVQePIbPdbbjOhrkpDcgH2Ix_9gp9qNQn649ixKzU2a5j-eLrqMVo4vP-IYrcZJivYCFEGdJ0eJvnL0J20tvnwI9UbNv2FHTklrgh/s400/DSC03067.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />A look at the bedside table- an end table I bought and now repurposed. Shell lamp from my grandmother, magazines, a book, candle, and mini framed photo.<br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzmzuD8_RwPsCErsKDez4Ofe-EalML_8A5M0kOyEAeRQY5SN-2agr_Epg2A3zPAZn_7XL6NGRwFVbSGUQ8_CrPiGXHpGP1xhvfoj4H5VA7Je6caDZWyHl5cBrwD5-QnEU7FiLH40cqAOjL/s1600-h/DSC03062.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444911017410599858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 351px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzmzuD8_RwPsCErsKDez4Ofe-EalML_8A5M0kOyEAeRQY5SN-2agr_Epg2A3zPAZn_7XL6NGRwFVbSGUQ8_CrPiGXHpGP1xhvfoj4H5VA7Je6caDZWyHl5cBrwD5-QnEU7FiLH40cqAOjL/s400/DSC03062.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />The bed again. I need to frame the artwork I bought from <a href="http://jeandsanders.blogspot.com/">Jean </a>and put above the bed to add some visual height.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp_eLgclh4QTEQgVN00W2OOKWPfUM_RoMuO8j1Xh31I5a_kqgHBFttQK7ms-Sm9B-NL4x7PkwYPIZJ725R5sv2u3t2_CrIVE_49oA-dhn5aE_AK7tjMEPXNzfoi2NjrmcLSrp5kRJHzArX/s1600-h/DSC03061.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444911013800980882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 287px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp_eLgclh4QTEQgVN00W2OOKWPfUM_RoMuO8j1Xh31I5a_kqgHBFttQK7ms-Sm9B-NL4x7PkwYPIZJ725R5sv2u3t2_CrIVE_49oA-dhn5aE_AK7tjMEPXNzfoi2NjrmcLSrp5kRJHzArX/s400/DSC03061.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div>I welcome any suggestions on the room- especially the painting of the dresser! My inspiration is from Traditional Home's <a href="http://www.traditionalhome.com/design_decorating/howwelive/decorating-apartment_1.html">First Nest </a>article featuring designer <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goodbonesgreatpieces.com">Suzanne Grua McGrath </a>and daughter Laren McGrath.<br /><br /><br /><br /></div><a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/atimg/1191407/030110firstplace03_rect540.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 437px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 540px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/atimg/1191407/030110firstplace03_rect540.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Hope y'all are having a great week!</div><div> </div><div>Emmie<br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Southern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-82351559032546903562010-03-01T07:13:00.006-05:002010-04-07T08:10:54.009-04:00Living it up at South BeachJust returned from Miami, Florida for the South Beach Food and Wine Festival. This is one of my favorite festivals of the year and I'm fortunate enough to be able to attend several of the great events. On Thursday, we went to Rachael Ray's Burger Bash. You can see Rachael (sort of) below as she she thanks the sponsors of the event.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiooPxyBVCyWtO49jozBPfO_eV-KDDIyPsUyII15VcnEDY0MbLHArOUduQdzC2w2zg1x24eMbOoIDNhrEjhyLmKLUAubkqpANGlHxF6dfk0t4B98zytCBs7Cv-0P-emRWUOvYzuA3Ht1jYy/s1600-h/DSC03009.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiooPxyBVCyWtO49jozBPfO_eV-KDDIyPsUyII15VcnEDY0MbLHArOUduQdzC2w2zg1x24eMbOoIDNhrEjhyLmKLUAubkqpANGlHxF6dfk0t4B98zytCBs7Cv-0P-emRWUOvYzuA3Ht1jYy/s400/DSC03009.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443454486359589826" border="0" /></a> That haze you see is not from my poor photo skills- the tent gets really smoky. With the chilly weather in Miami this year though, I was thankful for any heat source I could find!<br /><br />Last year I got to meet Bobby Flay... and this year... !<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZWJCP8VH9kStfq0W4Ix8N6QKpsBYswfR2dFzkGdOd7sGNQ2ZU83R2XMzKJT2mXXsPHS4z7OwuMGLJ-7pedVv7t2yutVVOKHBgXThWseqca686pbiUMequzIImVDdoW7JZrEZ1oiPS8-GM/s1600-h/DSC03014.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZWJCP8VH9kStfq0W4Ix8N6QKpsBYswfR2dFzkGdOd7sGNQ2ZU83R2XMzKJT2mXXsPHS4z7OwuMGLJ-7pedVv7t2yutVVOKHBgXThWseqca686pbiUMequzIImVDdoW7JZrEZ1oiPS8-GM/s400/DSC03014.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443454505372513234" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Here we are! It was a fantastic event- each of the <span style="font-weight: bold;">27</span> restaurants had their own kitchen/booth and served their take on the best "burger." The place was PACKED and it was difficult to navigate the tent- especially being part of a 10-person group. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5-S4bTv4inAWaj5JpTpwKowC2veFYjJfx98BJg6fkqo6g3wNsN_F9DL-Zmq2eN1Shzp10RDpwaWC2JS2Q3vuZZo0nDXMDKnulvqjRc0HhUMmc6Sw0tU3GkXSWNmVoctdvr6xBWXbNNE5O/s1600-h/bb.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 302px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5-S4bTv4inAWaj5JpTpwKowC2veFYjJfx98BJg6fkqo6g3wNsN_F9DL-Zmq2eN1Shzp10RDpwaWC2JS2Q3vuZZo0nDXMDKnulvqjRc0HhUMmc6Sw0tU3GkXSWNmVoctdvr6xBWXbNNE5O/s400/bb.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443645042706178162" border="0" /></a>via <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/Details-from-2010-Burger-Bash-Hosted-Rachael-Ray-7542276">YumSugar</a><br /></div><br />Chefs in attendance (and cooking) included Spike Mendelsohn, Morimoto, Michael Symon, and Rocco DiSpirito. I think my favorite was David Burke's Primehouse- a<b> </b>40 Day Dry Aged Burger - With Cheddar, Cripsy Shrimp, Pickle Chipotle Mayo, Maple Pepper Bacon and Pickled Watermelon Skewer<b>... </b>but I LOVED Spike's cotton candy milkshake. Blackberry Farm attended this year (with a fabulous Bacon-Beef Burger with Chow Chow, Pimento Cheese, Ramp Mayonnaise and Pickled Okra on Potato Onion Bread and a side of baked peanuts). Admittedly, I voted for their burger as I just got so excited for the Southern representation. Get more details here at <a href="http://www.burgerbeast.com/2010/02/south-beach-wine-and-food-festival.html">Burger Beast </a>(they must have avoided the Amstel Light and the Columbia Crest reserve wines and brought a notebook or something... their notes are impressive!) or at <a href="http://mangoandlime.net/2010/02/26/south-beach-wine-food-festival-burger-bash/#more-3100">Mango and Lime</a>.<br /><div style="color: black;"><b> </b></div><br />We ended the evening here...<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.cooljunkie.com/fashion/images/features/delano4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 340px; height: 268px;" src="http://www.cooljunkie.com/fashion/images/features/delano4.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Rose Bar at the Delano via CoolJunkie<br /></div><br />Friday was lunch at Emeril's place at the Lowe's Hotel. Isn't this view fantastic?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYBntwadPobUj4DMST7tYPbZbamw7dCPtyTGybUDdcGXyHXFKjzQia2DrRerF4MCWg2qRjgFOifWYG1i2Yp_OOAi3soY1tonnd4D44o4aza6CC3e0fRUb9H0mpWhEyKGIhyphenhyphenJpzaVa-60j3/s1600-h/DSC03017.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYBntwadPobUj4DMST7tYPbZbamw7dCPtyTGybUDdcGXyHXFKjzQia2DrRerF4MCWg2qRjgFOifWYG1i2Yp_OOAi3soY1tonnd4D44o4aza6CC3e0fRUb9H0mpWhEyKGIhyphenhyphenJpzaVa-60j3/s400/DSC03017.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443454514595861314" border="0" /></a>The service here has always been fabulous, and this year was no exception. The gumbo was awesome and perfect for restoring some semblance of normalcy to my poor body after the evening prior. No sighting of Emeril... until later in the day!<br /><br />We attended the for-the-trade tasting that afternoon. The line for our glass and gift bag- which you must get before entering the tent- was crazy long (you can see the tent in the distance)...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4jjZdoHyw77mZ33dOkAinVDEKYvpH_l-QJWu9GwYIU0W5I4wDSez7SLqCThLeEiswhn7kpRPmAmuZGlzzNWiUs0YAm0FG6tPLNpgA7cmyqdtoopPAvJVqY9RCq3e0jheFcuF7KwzSZ_OV/s1600-h/DSC03019.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4jjZdoHyw77mZ33dOkAinVDEKYvpH_l-QJWu9GwYIU0W5I4wDSez7SLqCThLeEiswhn7kpRPmAmuZGlzzNWiUs0YAm0FG6tPLNpgA7cmyqdtoopPAvJVqY9RCq3e0jheFcuF7KwzSZ_OV/s400/DSC03019.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443456160070443298" border="0" /></a>but with views like this, it is hard to complain!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJJWQFm6SPWm4WZQ6UJV6EYCzFqS04AJJgyynoLYvxDP4W8IfIQUXjreitJIWaqPiHwthVLXYsjtok1OlCBWfMnR1wpET0YhJCUp1whDEi3r27vgE8lBqhOLPbrADphoeoE7KH3eZGaRn2/s1600-h/DSC03018.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 289px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJJWQFm6SPWm4WZQ6UJV6EYCzFqS04AJJgyynoLYvxDP4W8IfIQUXjreitJIWaqPiHwthVLXYsjtok1OlCBWfMnR1wpET0YhJCUp1whDEi3r27vgE8lBqhOLPbrADphoeoE7KH3eZGaRn2/s400/DSC03018.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443454521103646194" border="0" /></a><br />The line wrapped around to the street, so we took in the scenes from Ocean Drive...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCQzVfPDJeCN2I3SVeJh2MVryQVSg24gXFflYmmEEPN5ZJIZB8J2t93ztKdOmnyVeQyF3UmX3j8CIa-PLHqh2nvxsRoM4CGz7TfUIJywQgLqZ5iW706fRX6F1A3wYdnBHHbla-bLUcTqpP/s1600-h/DSC03020.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCQzVfPDJeCN2I3SVeJh2MVryQVSg24gXFflYmmEEPN5ZJIZB8J2t93ztKdOmnyVeQyF3UmX3j8CIa-PLHqh2nvxsRoM4CGz7TfUIJywQgLqZ5iW706fRX6F1A3wYdnBHHbla-bLUcTqpP/s400/DSC03020.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443459280207358930" border="0" /></a><br />The intent of the Trade Tasting is that folks in the industry get a chance to try some of the Reserve wines and spirits available in the market. Over time, this event has turned into a free-for-all with people getting smashed. While this may look like a grown-up drinkfest, it was great to speak with some of the winemakers and other experts about the different types of wine they produce. And see a few "familiar" faces...<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-9QbyOFomF6m5QdM8RL5_yBYUqmK0lgOAsyLSPeHrIYFgHK0rT8r9J5ThQUfxJeUTn7Klbpgkkcqe8Oob6Rc8qghiKj9HapvgAI3_SrkdhyphenhyphenSfigTjg3i1JC9l3ZeANRRyVXtmRQVEXCGW/s1600-h/DSC03024.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-9QbyOFomF6m5QdM8RL5_yBYUqmK0lgOAsyLSPeHrIYFgHK0rT8r9J5ThQUfxJeUTn7Klbpgkkcqe8Oob6Rc8qghiKj9HapvgAI3_SrkdhyphenhyphenSfigTjg3i1JC9l3ZeANRRyVXtmRQVEXCGW/s400/DSC03024.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443459274661804354" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">That evening was the BubbleQ, this year sponsored by Perrier Jouet and hosted by Emeril Lagasse. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBqBUva8z0jc1H6foe0FAUtSE1yo269A_iCnupDG5Ob9lBq8oEap3Pd3HrFsQ4f9Fl1IHut8dHh_nkZyhvg6fczSuPYXdId2tRQeHgj1e8tQJaOnAYfZErnvuWdg_ro-SU2R1KjYLh89hg/s1600-h/bbq.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 258px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBqBUva8z0jc1H6foe0FAUtSE1yo269A_iCnupDG5Ob9lBq8oEap3Pd3HrFsQ4f9Fl1IHut8dHh_nkZyhvg6fczSuPYXdId2tRQeHgj1e8tQJaOnAYfZErnvuWdg_ro-SU2R1KjYLh89hg/s400/bbq.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443657733516882834" border="0" /></a>photo via SOBE Food and Wine<br /><br /></div>Same tent as the Rachael Ray event- only this time, it's Champagne and BBQ. I was smarter this night and broke away from the group with two other guys to try to make it through as much of the tent as possible. Tim Love, from Lonesome Dove Western Bistro in Ft Worth had my favorite dish- lamb belly BLT.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCZ0ufkgqm5FULoiYZkguUviMRg2GtMs6EGlgw5DNF6E1AjuEFLppPdiRXE9yhee-QJPDCWq-KkFN8FKHZKfLFTFDNPWeyJvsXa7_dXUYykrqBb4FB5ZhCHEB2aWCFU_o3PLhJT-sQYqbV/s1600-h/DSC03028.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCZ0ufkgqm5FULoiYZkguUviMRg2GtMs6EGlgw5DNF6E1AjuEFLppPdiRXE9yhee-QJPDCWq-KkFN8FKHZKfLFTFDNPWeyJvsXa7_dXUYykrqBb4FB5ZhCHEB2aWCFU_o3PLhJT-sQYqbV/s400/DSC03028.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443657088922223826" border="0" /></a><br />Todd English was graciously taking photos (our group had grabbed a table in front of his booth)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVR9FZC08fYkEuOxj-uKuP_aRbOoH7PDo3MYORpdvebItvo3pvOntjuwUoaaM2lM6Q9iQQGVg8s_6SXtsvN-SQvr8KUWcWTGljDaLUkNG0ypcM_cb7w0Bq3bzrnS-6qK2rtACPHJZ3PYXO/s1600-h/DSC03037.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVR9FZC08fYkEuOxj-uKuP_aRbOoH7PDo3MYORpdvebItvo3pvOntjuwUoaaM2lM6Q9iQQGVg8s_6SXtsvN-SQvr8KUWcWTGljDaLUkNG0ypcM_cb7w0Bq3bzrnS-6qK2rtACPHJZ3PYXO/s400/DSC03037.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443456182065164066" border="0" /></a><br />but Emeril was a little harder to nab. But how cool to see him working!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxEMjhmGh0IKsSr83mo1TuHNJ8FaYeiVZN47303zo-O1gJJdwsbzUMuK6r0iW99Sy1OXv26stCdVE_3VJxBbIsEIPA9ks3iPdVzEca1UXYQ1pPSMu09cc7-4Ort5ZJo4HgdXGvi-kOUMi9/s1600-h/DSC03034.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxEMjhmGh0IKsSr83mo1TuHNJ8FaYeiVZN47303zo-O1gJJdwsbzUMuK6r0iW99Sy1OXv26stCdVE_3VJxBbIsEIPA9ks3iPdVzEca1UXYQ1pPSMu09cc7-4Ort5ZJo4HgdXGvi-kOUMi9/s400/DSC03034.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443456174988198130" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6KjebnziIg1OuzbXdqQFy8HkPMvDUaaC0BStf1F3Qi8WpZIcwM-z8lldswn7AT1Oxhm0hyphenhyphencLIvy4NV0wul3gA3zCf0D0XwLxfqnN1G0l7zyefw60T5yGZarTwMfvmwDkrQFM_NVM3JHBT/s1600-h/DSC03032.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6KjebnziIg1OuzbXdqQFy8HkPMvDUaaC0BStf1F3Qi8WpZIcwM-z8lldswn7AT1Oxhm0hyphenhyphencLIvy4NV0wul3gA3zCf0D0XwLxfqnN1G0l7zyefw60T5yGZarTwMfvmwDkrQFM_NVM3JHBT/s400/DSC03032.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443456162626424002" border="0" /></a>Again, the evening was dominated by the who's who of FoodTV, but great to see some other familiar faces like Al Roker! Some of the Bravo Real Housewives of NYC were in town apparently- saw photos of Bethenny at the BubbleQ event, while Kelly attended the Best of the Best.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivU6HqqJ0TiL2Nahzu4EWjgWNICbFIm5F3qiMYkQVR63Eyd8-SV3OHwHf03qHHtjesy-6rGIHTNi9jPQ52Eye9QKCGhX3Ba-MkupzWDYMYQCMRRHzWMtSbeQQAgMO4MAh_3ADiT7gB8qW1/s1600-h/bbq2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 260px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivU6HqqJ0TiL2Nahzu4EWjgWNICbFIm5F3qiMYkQVR63Eyd8-SV3OHwHf03qHHtjesy-6rGIHTNi9jPQ52Eye9QKCGhX3Ba-MkupzWDYMYQCMRRHzWMtSbeQQAgMO4MAh_3ADiT7gB8qW1/s400/bbq2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443657739847230082" border="0" /></a>photo via SOBE Food and Wine<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Despite the $$ tickets (even more than the Burger Bash) the tent was packed with people overflowing outside both ends of the tent.<br /></div></div><br />My hosts also got us VIP tickets to the Svedka event that evening so we went out like dancing queens...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.soulofmiami.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/svedka6_evite_550-500x500.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 500px;" src="http://www.soulofmiami.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/svedka6_evite_550-500x500.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>We had a fantastic wine educational seminar Saturday morning hosted by Wine Spectator at the Gansevoort South (yes, we began with sampling Pommery at 10 o'clock in the morning). Of all the events, this one is the most serious educational one and for any wine lover, just an unbelievable experience. (Sidenote, you MUST spit to get through the event with your senses in tact).<br /><br />While I had an incredible time, by Saturday afternoon, I was missing Mr. Southern terribly and couldn't wait until Sunday evening to head home. After a tearful phone call, I booked a last-minute flight back to Atlanta and enjoyed Saturday evening on the couch with the fam. So much for being a rock star... that spot is where I'd much rather be!Southern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-63833684418554203462010-02-23T08:06:00.001-05:002010-02-23T08:09:09.348-05:00Pull up a Bench<div align="left">It has been a week! I feel so unbelievably guilty for my lack of presence in the blogosphere. I missed the connection so much, yet somehow was completely sucked into my work sphere. Last night at a fundraiser, I met some gals who had heard of my blog through a mutual friend and it occurred to me that this is a commitment just like anything else. Yep, it's a bit indulgent, certainly doesn't pay the bills, but boy does it add a lot to my life. For the bit that I invest, it pays tons in returns! So thank you for your patience through my challenge to juggle it all (how do you guys manage to raise children too!!?? We had doggie bath night recently and it nearly killed me!) So THANK YOU for sticking with me!<br /><br />I'm celebrating my return to Blogland with the announcement of my Interior Designer, Claire Watkins from the blog <a href="http://highglossblue.blogspot.com/">High Gloss Blue</a>. Claire is a fellow resident of Atlanta and I fell for her sharp wit and enthusiasm for design. As you likely heard me mention, I finally came to the realization that while I LOVE home decor, I really do need assistance. My own space is much too personal to critique and, having lived here for four years, I certainly don't have that fresh look. I would imagine that having a design-loving blogger for a client may not be the easiest task, but Claire handled it in stride. She took all of my suggestions to heart, gave me guidance, but in the end, is allowing me to make my own decisions. With her eye and framework, however, I feel much more set up for success.<br /><br />As all you designers/experts in your field have said, it is so much better to just hire the talent from the beginning. One would save so much time and money. During our walk through the house (which I was SO nervous about!) I kept saying, I bought that because I thought... and that because I was thinking... blah blah blah. The advice, "buy something because you LOVE it and you will find a home for it"... ignore that voice. That is just not true. Unless you happen to own four homes and then yes, that object will likely work in one of them.<br /><br />OK, so onto the redesign. I have several rooms I want to update and, like many of us, a limited budget. So we broke things down by room, but keeping in mind the overall "master plan." One of my first projects will be the breakfast room area, just off the kitchn. </div><div align="center"><br /></div><br /><div align="left"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441411040271242514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeft-4BUuZK81qm2c-MfBa3ACQFOxsoluoujzWI9TDFT9ajXKowrWIgkW4zZYpE-ON-Chxb5CAuD79iPCEkI_Sjj9go8oJe6kSnUIkj_72WlT30Kbkyk5t8QO55LHeP24HuEuAO_vfbPV9/s400/DSC03002.JPG" border="0" />I am blessed in that I've inherited several antique pieces of furniture. The down side is that I feel compelled to use these pieces and am hesitant to change anything. Our breakfast room set is a great example. I freely admit it- I'm not an oak person. But this set is very oak. Claire suggested painting the hutch (below)- which Mr. Southern nearly passed out over. But since I agreed not to paint the kitchen cabinets and showed him some lovely examples of painted furniture, I think we've gotten to an OK to paint. </div><div align="left"><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441411049301052162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnQethhamuGnqn8l3e6oBByonEj9uz3BjwVdsWoRIbRP777SX9mSwxItPShDxyvs56BCiuh4GJJ7w70McNOpxO8DR0jS5QQIxVFWRpdlyTP8H7QRaw8e62TdERhNlDpSUT33thxx5Fr2jc/s400/DSC03004.JPG" border="0" /> </div><br /><div align="center"></div><div align="left">Could we pull off the Belgian/Swedish look here a la Brooke, Joni, and Gina?</div><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center"></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441418348081479058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZH1PgFg355nc9jdNJav5_9CYGfNybiTGsIs-dPHVzPtmD21npOgzMmPsQw4loeaEU_KVJEn3Zl3yzWqGPtwJIzttHtdP5ktUhR5roqrGgR1tr5SmjqlWiZ07eCtXONFlhJzsJWRdR4lul/s400/velvet+aned+linen.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center">via <a href="http://brookegiannetti.typepad.com/velvet_and_linen/2009/02/the-swedes-are-here.html">Velvet and Linen</a><br /><br /></p><br />The other challenge is seating. These chairs just are not super comfortable. But they've been in the family for years! So, I will let them rest in the attic and just go for the comfort (I'm hoping) Parsons chairs and bench from <a href="http://www.ballarddesigns.com/">Ballard Designs</a>. Oh yes and the walls. I loved the red wallpaper when we first moved in but have realized how drawn I am to neutral palletes. So at some point this paper will go and be replaced with (ideally!) grasscloth- but done in vinyl for washability. I've heard that these options are great, despite all the negative connotations of vinyl paper.<br /><br />First, the eye candy inspiration for creating a great breakfast nook (though some of these are a little "country" for me)... I grabbed these images for their banquette seating, which Claire suggested for the far wall in the bay window.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJovgg3mV3sTCIPoB36HE37nLp81ESJxFeSDAvyn7yZ0MZgsRl_vCTzbLJ5CxJe4H6LbUew_uiPRplEdkcHpkeQ73y-C6lC5YuXoPsIwyD_40W95ijFAR1Qv0aG3oEQ_iyzYV7Up_RBW2V/s1600-h/via+young+house+love.png"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441411844550460946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 378px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJovgg3mV3sTCIPoB36HE37nLp81ESJxFeSDAvyn7yZ0MZgsRl_vCTzbLJ5CxJe4H6LbUew_uiPRplEdkcHpkeQ73y-C6lC5YuXoPsIwyD_40W95ijFAR1Qv0aG3oEQ_iyzYV7Up_RBW2V/s400/via+young+house+love.png" border="0" /></a> Young House Love</div><br /><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf6mQgiycRIMTAXvWp3-Rx9uPLVAXmuOQqiC-P01V5qMOkHSME9taoFI_4-b7v65cRm8TyTDWHKsii4M35NCZ4q0Bwb3FORxBAcVcsP0xawLn-zURq2CHfva6N0dLiPYGLhG0abOS7Hwq0/s1600-h/thekitchendesigner.org.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441411841836657890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 275px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 325px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf6mQgiycRIMTAXvWp3-Rx9uPLVAXmuOQqiC-P01V5qMOkHSME9taoFI_4-b7v65cRm8TyTDWHKsii4M35NCZ4q0Bwb3FORxBAcVcsP0xawLn-zURq2CHfva6N0dLiPYGLhG0abOS7Hwq0/s400/thekitchendesigner.org.jpg" border="0" /></a>The Kitchen Designer<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu2oBZtAGumOzqcvWa_TFmsxDMBma3F-qc70zjOG77LfK1gpISaUIAOjjUDrsNDibRXQixesiBVfQ2s8eam5AzjLM367Mh4_OpSKMngkIp5qyvNqLXAoWmCY2V3jcetsM0aPxZbTm6ZPSq/s1600-h/country+living+bench.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441411837349330818" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 313px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu2oBZtAGumOzqcvWa_TFmsxDMBma3F-qc70zjOG77LfK1gpISaUIAOjjUDrsNDibRXQixesiBVfQ2s8eam5AzjLM367Mh4_OpSKMngkIp5qyvNqLXAoWmCY2V3jcetsM0aPxZbTm6ZPSq/s400/country+living+bench.jpg" border="0" /></a> Country Living<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441411055752986114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQwsA9xqcEYhgBY7Z9SvRx-Gzj8AyRpUMuZJiSTLb3XHUBi7rySz5Hqgkqmgqgd7bKJgqjQWUwbxa3dqFMg_B8bVLd6Doh21j1tLzKUXMDpENkdnhAZ9gzbklc5MLVvP6OzsmxfKWRy8CD/s400/bhg.jpg" border="0" /> Better Homes and Gardens<br /><br /><p align="center"></p><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikUOmkAUeym4R_-uypNigl6GAaVutCWMTdEIEeAw1o5Yuy6M0AUeP-YjKe0SOTlegD7P5KH34_ERRWK6NdXSomvnQlqWoDv7AXk_gSq-kdcPpXlAsPQ-rF5Awm3GUBKFhSWz_D23A0NR1f/s1600-h/bhg+builtinionwindow.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441411052916266210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 360px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 360px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikUOmkAUeym4R_-uypNigl6GAaVutCWMTdEIEeAw1o5Yuy6M0AUeP-YjKe0SOTlegD7P5KH34_ERRWK6NdXSomvnQlqWoDv7AXk_gSq-kdcPpXlAsPQ-rF5Awm3GUBKFhSWz_D23A0NR1f/s400/bhg+builtinionwindow.jpg" border="0" /></a> Better Homes and Gardens<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmKNV_Bj235sXVkJlkJOMaJaltWj2eYSzWH_Y2HQ4JVNJZroIZA30su-gLklc-vqjlTzFFX-CPUWPum696BKzFXArw479Hktd8udQ54NgF737sNzi4Fv8wjBcSDtA4NNDIju8ZZf6q-cC/s1600-h/bhg3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441411050477951842" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmKNV_Bj235sXVkJlkJOMaJaltWj2eYSzWH_Y2HQ4JVNJZroIZA30su-gLklc-vqjlTzFFX-CPUWPum696BKzFXArw479Hktd8udQ54NgF737sNzi4Fv8wjBcSDtA4NNDIju8ZZf6q-cC/s400/bhg3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><p align="center">Better Homes and Gardens</p><br /></div><br /><div align="left">Here's the Ballard Design bench Claire suggested paired with several of the fabric samples she had. </div><br /><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><br /><div align="left">There's the Como Ikat Dijon from Sunbrella...<br /></div><br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://www.ballarddesigns.com/comShop/Linens-Fabrics/Fabric-by-the-Yard/Indoor-Outdoor-Fabric/Como-Ikat-Dijon-Sunbrellareg-Fabric-by-the-Yard/p/11725"><img height="100" src="http://a248.e.akamai.net/f/248/12335/6h/www.ballarddesigns.com/images/us/local/products/swatch/large/CID.jpg" width="100" border="0" /></a></p><br /><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><br /><p align="center"><img id="customImg" alt="" src="http://s7d4.scene7.com/ir/render/BallardRender/SB106-800?wid=400&res=50&src=CID" border="0" name="customImg" /></p><br /><br /><div align="left"><br /></div><br /><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><br /><div align="left">the Daphne</div><br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://www.ballarddesigns.com/comShop/Linens-Fabrics/Fabric-by-the-Yard/Patterns/Dafne-Fabric-by-the-Yard/p/7613"><img height="100" src="http://a248.e.akamai.net/f/248/12335/6h/www.ballarddesigns.com/images/us/local/products/swatch/large/DCH.jpg" width="100" border="0" /></a></p><br /><br /><p align="center"><img id="customImg" alt="" src="http://s7d4.scene7.com/ir/render/BallardRender/SB106-800?wid=400&res=50&src=DCH" border="0" name="customImg" /></p><br /><br /><p align="left">I honestly forget the name of this one and it was not in our sample list, but I like it!</p><br /><br /><p align="center"><img id="customImg" alt="" src="http://s7d4.scene7.com/ir/render/BallardRender/SB106-800?wid=400&res=50&src=PRH" border="0" name="customImg" /></p><br /><br /><div align="left"><br /><br />Easy Care Anya in Chocolate (Mr. Southern worries this is too busy)</div><br /><br /><div align="left"><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><p align="center"><a onclick="javascript:showSwatch('Pattern','ANC',this); "><img height="50" src="http://a248.e.akamai.net/f/248/12335/6h/www.ballarddesigns.com/images/us/local/products/swatch/thumb/ANC.jpg" width="50" /></p></a><br /><br /><p align="center"><img id="customImg" alt="" src="http://s7d4.scene7.com/ir/render/BallardRender/SB106-800?wid=400&res=50&src=OAC" border="0" name="customImg" /></p><br /><br /><div align="left"><br />and the Arabesque- which here looks far less pretty than the actual fabric sample.<br /><br /></div><br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://www.ballarddesigns.com/comShop/Linens-Fabrics/Fabric-by-the-Yard/Patterns/Arabesque-Fabric-by-the-Yard/p/10261"><img height="100" src="http://a248.e.akamai.net/f/248/12335/6h/www.ballarddesigns.com/images/us/local/products/swatch/large/ARA.jpg" width="100" border="0" /></a></p><br /><br /><div align="center"><img id="customImg" alt="" src="http://s7d4.scene7.com/ir/render/BallardRender/SB106-800?wid=400&res=50&src=ARA" border="0" name="customImg" /></div><br /><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><br /><br />And of course, must replace that builder light fixture. Claire selected this one for us from Pottery Barn, which I think will work perfectly.<br /><p><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMLrT91rpFSjyFfug5wedHQyHBzaeuDCSDEwYYaqXi3bVYTa6bYTxp7E5Cf5qoIlxRfZeag4QsB9OtQyhZTwi-KQLXPm8Kx2pS8btg_kw48GZey0Zi57gpJNizWHtl-m-6C0rkmw_hhFJz/s1600-h/pottery+barn+lamp.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441419911539319442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 360px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMLrT91rpFSjyFfug5wedHQyHBzaeuDCSDEwYYaqXi3bVYTa6bYTxp7E5Cf5qoIlxRfZeag4QsB9OtQyhZTwi-KQLXPm8Kx2pS8btg_kw48GZey0Zi57gpJNizWHtl-m-6C0rkmw_hhFJz/s400/pottery+barn+lamp.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />I'd love to hear what you think! OH! And, I have my very first giveaway coming up this week, so please stay tuned!</p><p></p><p>-Emmie</p>Southern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-41586488072114577072010-02-15T07:42:00.002-05:002010-02-15T21:14:55.291-05:00Mardi Gras in Mobile<div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5e/Mardi_Gras_Mobile_flag_stylized.gif"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 280px; cursor: pointer; height: 170px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5e/Mardi_Gras_Mobile_flag_stylized.gif" border="0" /></a><br />Last week, work led me to the Gulf Coast of the Southeastern United States. Deep in Alabama and Mississippi to mea are the true "Deep South." The threat of impending snow during the trip, however, added a little something I wasn't expecting. Fortunately, though delayed considerably, my Friday evening flight still landed safely and I made it home. Travel during a snowstorm (or any other bad weather) and it is amazing how happy you feel when you walk in the door of your own home! </div><div> </div><div>I especially enjoyed getting to see Mobile, Alabama, particularly during the Mardi Gras season. While often people think of New Orleans, Mobile actually holds the record for the first Carnival celebration, in 1703. The Carnival season culminates this Tuesday with Fat Tuesday (or Mardi Gras, french for Fat Tuesday). The celebration precedes Ash Wednesday, or the start of Lent.<br /><br />My hotel kindly left me a gift of beads and a MoonPie.</div><div> </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438444861030696354" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 300px; height: 400px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigJpkKT0wlzbv3wmE8LDz3pir9dWx0ESbIlJqifX9vYA0XdudRGDIbR66YnJuSQVn55nNrTxCCp0Ymn_ipbnyThu-NdcpqS-NjxaLl2NmkELzLC10AzH_LsexjHjPTd2wNrcUEhtB8CpXc/s400/DSC02958.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br />You know I had to take a quick drive through the Historic District to catch a glimpse of the homes. I was surprised and delighted to find out how absolutely affordable they are- in comparison to Atlanta standards. The houses were constructed in a mix of styles and price points. </div><div> </div><div>Here are two I captured and I must apologize for the poor photo quality. I love the inviting nature of this house and the lower side window pane suggests lots of great architectural details inside.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidpzpfd_m8_DwcKebLWd4_VKakPrdDGBeyscK-kPNiON_YmUSsyA-5xBLEzHcxU9ImtAxwCmudTwIAmEnOmvcHhesLHH1-jGJoJtMbdHExLk69v5bEwmBeHgzTm_IEZOuARxvLT39qOUEW/s1600-h/DSC02909.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438444875519415522" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 311px; height: 400px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidpzpfd_m8_DwcKebLWd4_VKakPrdDGBeyscK-kPNiON_YmUSsyA-5xBLEzHcxU9ImtAxwCmudTwIAmEnOmvcHhesLHH1-jGJoJtMbdHExLk69v5bEwmBeHgzTm_IEZOuARxvLT39qOUEW/s400/DSC02909.JPG" border="0" /></a> This house, which sadly we can't see through the trees very well, but seems to have a gothic quality. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi45_liwJIMpql5hwJanMDjegkX9-9jd9UxoKYxAAWRQWZnE6jHFbz7wtBclcSa1NkzbLVsgov3gRNS-gRosy7QNOEGTkaVLO8gwOaZu5SHwG8meV06yNdIVKab6U11hi2rJHTm-7yS9v42/s1600-h/DSC02904.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438444865915314546" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 400px; height: 300px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi45_liwJIMpql5hwJanMDjegkX9-9jd9UxoKYxAAWRQWZnE6jHFbz7wtBclcSa1NkzbLVsgov3gRNS-gRosy7QNOEGTkaVLO8gwOaZu5SHwG8meV06yNdIVKab6U11hi2rJHTm-7yS9v42/s400/DSC02904.JPG" border="0" /></a>Since my photographs stunk (the others I did not upload were even worse), I poured over some real estate listings to share. This little number on Lafayette Street is on the market for $329k.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://p.rdcpix.com/v03/lda2e5242-m0x.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 459px; cursor: pointer; height: 344px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://p.rdcpix.com/v03/lda2e5242-m0x.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/lda2e5242-m2x.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 459px; cursor: pointer; height: 344px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/lda2e5242-m2x.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://p.rdcpix.com/v02/lda2e5242-m1x.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 459px; cursor: pointer; height: 344px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://p.rdcpix.com/v02/lda2e5242-m1x.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/lda2e5242-m10x.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 459px; cursor: pointer; height: 344px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/lda2e5242-m10x.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/lda2e5242-m16x.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 459px; cursor: pointer; height: 344px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/lda2e5242-m16x.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />This Dauphin Street Beauty is less than $600 (I can't remember the exact figure). I especially love the second floor porch and the second building (pool house? guest house?). I would guess Queen Anne architectural style... <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/ldc905942-c0x.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 459px; cursor: pointer; height: 344px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/ldc905942-c0x.jpg" border="0" /></a> Oh to have a glass-front Butler's Pantry...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/ldc905942-c15x.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 459px; cursor: pointer; height: 344px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/ldc905942-c15x.jpg" border="0" /></a> Such detail on the mantle.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/ldc905942-c8x.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 459px; cursor: pointer; height: 344px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/ldc905942-c8x.jpg" border="0" /></a> Very intricate woodwork.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/ldc905942-c17x.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 459px; cursor: pointer; height: 344px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/ldc905942-c17x.jpg" border="0" /></a> Here it is! The little house!!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/ldc905942-c3x.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 459px; cursor: pointer; height: 344px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/ldc905942-c3x.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />This cute little Arts and Crafts guy on Macy Place is less than $200k... I think there's probably lots of potential here but a good bit of work too.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/205058_0317532.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 450px; cursor: pointer; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/205058_0317532.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/205058_1411331.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 450px; cursor: pointer; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/205058_1411331.jpg" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/205058_2348873.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 450px; cursor: pointer; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/205058_2348873.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />This one on Houston is also less than $200k. Both houses are a bit smaller- less than 2,000 square feet- and likely could use some updates. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/203005_0366674.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 450px; cursor: pointer; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/203005_0366674.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/203005_0319607.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 450px; cursor: pointer; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/203005_0319607.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/203005_0540991.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 450px; cursor: pointer; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/203005_0540991.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/203005_0049672.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 450px; cursor: pointer; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/203005_0049672.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/203005_0906369.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 450px; cursor: pointer; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/203005_0906369.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />This house is just fabulous. And I think "only" $560k.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/lcfd72e42-c0x.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 459px; cursor: pointer; height: 344px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/lcfd72e42-c0x.jpg" border="0" /></a> Love the staircase and doors here.<br /></div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/lcfd72e42-c5x.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 459px; cursor: pointer; height: 344px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/lcfd72e42-c5x.jpg" border="0" /></a> Another view of the stairs through the door... but a handsome room in its own right.<img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 450px; cursor: pointer; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/lcfd72e42-c11x.jpg" border="0" />Great light throughout the house and I love all the French doors and transom windows.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/lcfd72e42-c4x.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 459px; cursor: pointer; height: 344px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/lcfd72e42-c4x.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/lcfd72e42-c6x.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 459px; cursor: pointer; height: 344px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/lcfd72e42-c6x.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/lcfd72e42-c8x.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 459px; cursor: pointer; height: 344px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/lcfd72e42-c8x.jpg" border="0" /></a>Note the yellow/purple/green flag flying in front of this Georgian Revival house.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://cdn.homes.com/cgi-bin/readimage_v2/429907601"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 320px; cursor: pointer; height: 240px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://cdn.homes.com/cgi-bin/readimage_v2/429907601" border="0" /></a>My absolute favorite though is the house known as "Elephant Walk."<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://cdn.homes.com/cgi-bin/readimage_v2/429907601"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/205907_0326250.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 640px; cursor: pointer; height: 480px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/205907_0326250.jpg" border="0" /></a>Yes, this little guy is in the Mardi Gras spirit, decked out with his beads.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/205907_240000.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 640px; cursor: pointer; height: 480px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/205907_240000.jpg" border="0" /></a>The yard seems fabulous- lots of texture among the plantings.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/205907_0920000.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 640px; cursor: pointer; height: 480px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/205907_0920000.jpg" border="0" /></a>I didn't find a lot of pictures of the interior, though the ones I found are quite delightful. I adore the coffered ceilings here and the wall color is just lovely.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/205907_0958750.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 640px; cursor: pointer; height: 480px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/205907_0958750.jpg" border="0" /></a>The bay window, visible from the front of the house, provides a terrific seating area in the parlor.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/205907_0083750.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 640px; cursor: pointer; height: 480px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://cdn-6.eneighborhoods.com/c1/176/205907_0083750.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />That wraps up my tour of Mobile. I also saw loads of great places on the Gulf coast- you Florida beach ladies are quite fortunate!! I hope y'all are safe and warm and had a wonderful weekend!<br /><br />--Emmie<br /><br />PS- thanks to a reader email, I have learned that Zatarains is throwing "<a href="http://akamediainc.com/SMNR/zatarians_world_largest_mardi_gras_party_1032.html">The World's Largest Mardi Gras Party</a>." To learn more, simply click on the link. While I'm slightly saddened that I was not invited to host one... Laissez Les Bon Temps Roulez! (please note that I understand this is imperfect French).<br /></div>Southern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-36974529946128352492010-02-11T21:55:00.000-05:002010-02-12T07:46:38.852-05:00Be Your Own Valentine<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisMx3rc-XR20DG0jdgZ1eLbvivmuAiEulC9_wzp8TPyYMXC7loqBYPJRqHxG3r9Z8jXfWbOVn75TRW5HHDTJFRZyeSMQTxsnI0YhbNmeRcyCotznppH4PqUKyMgsIVeYZUawEo4VFVikvt/s320/pink-rose-valentine-day-flowers.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisMx3rc-XR20DG0jdgZ1eLbvivmuAiEulC9_wzp8TPyYMXC7loqBYPJRqHxG3r9Z8jXfWbOVn75TRW5HHDTJFRZyeSMQTxsnI0YhbNmeRcyCotznppH4PqUKyMgsIVeYZUawEo4VFVikvt/s320/pink-rose-valentine-day-flowers.jpg" border="0" /></a> via <a href="http://weddingtypesofflowersguide.blogspot.com/2009/02/valentine-flowers-valentine-wallpapers.html">Wedding Flowers</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="left">With this and my <a href="http://southernaspirations.blogspot.com/2009/12/my-peaches-list-for-canine-and-chef.html">Peaches </a>Present post, I fear I'm running the risk of having y'all think I'm a complete narcissist. Not so! However, over the years, I've learned the importance of self love. As in, you have to love and appreciate yourself in order to truly and fully love others. <em>OK, I lied. I'm <strong>still </strong>learning the importance of self love. </em></div><br /><br /><br /><div align="left">When one is Type A and a perfectionist, like I am, this "self love" is not always an easy thing to accomplish. I am often yelling at myself that I could do something better, should have done that, shouldn't have done this, etc. You get the idea. I honestly have to stop and remind myself- hey, I'm OK.</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://justiceace.files.wordpress.com/2009/08/beach-sunset-large.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 412px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center; px: " alt="" src="http://justiceace.files.wordpress.com/2009/08/beach-sunset-large.jpg" border="0" /></a> via JusticeAce </div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="left">Additionally, we're heading into a holiday, Valentine's Day, which can be rather bittersweet. Whether you have a Significant Other or not, I encourage you to be your own Valentine first. </div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">Take a moment and think about all the great qualities you have. Commit to be supportive of yourself and your work and efforts. Take care of yourself- your physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing.<br /></div><br /><div align="center"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 391px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.healthmoneysuccess.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/valentine-day-optimized.jpg" border="0" />via <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/aussiegall/465898486/">aussiegall</a><br /></div><br /><div align="left">I happen to be traveling again this week (which explains my poor posts and even poorer commenting- I apologize!) and have had ample time with myself. As I've mentioned, I occassionally like to do my own "date night" and take myself out to dinner. These solo dinners after a long day aren't quite what I typically have in mind for date night, but it works. Your Significant Other may think you are completely insane if you suggest a solo date night, so that might not work for you. </div><br /><div align="left"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 623px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 862px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://gallery.photo.net/photo/5111519-lg.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><p align="center">via <a href="http://photo.net/photodb/photo?photo_id=5111519&size=lg">PhotoNet</a></p><br /><p align="center"></p><br /><p align="left">But perhaps you can take a few extra moments in the bath, go for a run (perhaps on a treadmill?), or just enjoy a moment of quiet. Maybe splurge a little bit. Buy a little somthing-something, have a great piece of candy, buy yourself flowers. But do something to recognize you.</p><p><br />This probably a little "touchy feely" for many of you, but it was a thought I wanted to share with you.</p><p></p><p>Happy Valentine's Day!</p><p></p><p>Emmie</p>Southern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7433795512222943867.post-24784859018936659922010-02-08T07:03:00.004-05:002010-02-08T08:37:30.698-05:00Southern Gardens<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gardenvisit.com/assets/madge/new_orleans_rose_garden/600x/new_orleans_rose_garden_600x.jpg" rel="lightbox"><img src="http://www.gardenvisit.com/assets/madge/new_orleans_rose_garden/c185x165/new_orleans_rose_garden_c185x165.jpg" alt="Rose Garden, New Orleans Botanical Garden" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">New Orleans City Park<br /><br /></div>In honor of New Orleans' win last night, all those tempting gardening catalogs I'm receiving, and the fact that I'm just tired of the cold.... I thought I'd take a quick look at Good Southern Gardens.<br /><br />A good Southern garden has some structure to it, achieved with shrubbery and trees- in addition to some man-made structures. I love boxwoods too for their evergreen.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="http://img4.southernaccents.com/i/2003/11/boxwoods-vardar-l.jpg?400:400" alt="Best of Show: Seven Boxwoods That Thrive in the South" /><br /><a href="http://www.southernaccents.com/outdoor-living/flowers-plants/boxwoods-southern-gardens-00400000026541/page2.html">Southern Accents</a><br /><br /><a href="http://blog.savannahgetaways.net/.a/6a00d83451876969e201156e9dbeed970c-pi" style="display: inline;"><img alt="Savannahgarden" class="at-xid-6a00d83451876969e201156e9dbeed970c image-full " src="http://blog.savannahgetaways.net/.a/6a00d83451876969e201156e9dbeed970c-800wi" title="Savannahgarden" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blog.savannahgetaways.net/news/2009/03/index.html">Savannah Getaways</a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe1bGPHRDGPVUjyN3TnnpHn5-4CMS8WZy58Cxafx0P7hN0t9YGHs7Kj0yrF2JNqeNKz66nzQBBPYuIYRFmgDR1IJuRuiXD7V1IY2l5FtN1tygT6qT7J35P9YWDVfDuXal70K30DjdAJ5gz/s1600-h/100_6208.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423636579011076418" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 400px; height: 266px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe1bGPHRDGPVUjyN3TnnpHn5-4CMS8WZy58Cxafx0P7hN0t9YGHs7Kj0yrF2JNqeNKz66nzQBBPYuIYRFmgDR1IJuRuiXD7V1IY2l5FtN1tygT6qT7J35P9YWDVfDuXal70K30DjdAJ5gz/s400/100_6208.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://taradillard.blogspot.com/2010/01/garden-designers-bloglink-taras-trinity.html">Tara Dillard</a><br /><br /><a href="http://gardenandgun.com/galleries/photos/party-garden?curImage=3"><img src="http://gardenandgun.com/files/GG0309_In-the-Garden_03.jpg" /></a><br />Flannery O'Connor's garden via <a href="http://gardenandgun.com/article/party-garden">Garden and Gun</a><br /></div><br />One can't mention structures and gardens without referencing <a href="http://www.pearlfryar.com/">Pearl Fryar's Topiary garden</a> in South Carolina.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.fryarstopiaries.com/pearlpicbiophoto.jpg" border="0" height="422" width="421" /><br /></div>Pearl began his topiaries, reportedly, in an effort to win a neighborhood garden award. He certainly succeeded and his passion and art are amazing.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gardenvisit.com/assets/madge/fryar_topiary_south_carolina/600x/fryar_topiary_south_carolina_600x.jpg" rel="lightbox"><img src="http://www.gardenvisit.com/assets/madge/fryar_topiary_south_carolina/384x/fryar_topiary_south_carolina_384x.jpg" alt="Pearl Fryar's Topiary Garden" /></a><br />photograph by Pat Hartley<br /></div><br />When I think of Southern gardens, I also think of statues- adding a bit of gothic to the setting. This one is in <a href="http://www.gardenvisit.com/garden/dothan_botanical_gardens">Dothan Botanical Gardens</a> in Alabama.<br /></div><a href="http://www.gardenvisit.com/assets/madge/dothan_botanical_gardens/600x/dothan_botanical_gardens_600x.jpg" rel="lightbox"><img src="http://www.gardenvisit.com/assets/madge/dothan_botanical_gardens/384x/dothan_botanical_gardens_384x.jpg" alt="Statue, Dothan Botanical Gardens" /></a><br />photography by cablebreak (flikr)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Mixed with Hydrangeas- another very Southern view.<br /></div><img src="http://www.phillipoliver.net/0504hydrangeas.jpg" height="345" width="460" /><br />via A Southern Garden- <a href="http://www.phillipoliver.net/hydrangeas.htm">Phillip Oliver</a><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://thiseclecticlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/Garden-in-Savannah.JPG" alt="Garden in Savannah" title="Garden in Savannah" class="size-full wp-image-9725" height="301" width="450" /><br />Garden in Savannah via <a href="http://thiseclecticlife.com/2009/08/26/disjointed-photo-album/">This Eclectic Life</a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">And amid the dreaded Spanish Moss.<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAVoXgo_kusS8XruZA0UpPdbEZuyrnx-ZuYbHAb8m9fsg4IAH1xf1c5x2PvyEmB-8T1th0MkNxl3HXDBR92C_l1eZuVZdsyD_MhwcgbJ57Wdw8RsQtu2XdejUcyHmEl7FJUBiHCz5va6xl/s1600-h/afton2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 262px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAVoXgo_kusS8XruZA0UpPdbEZuyrnx-ZuYbHAb8m9fsg4IAH1xf1c5x2PvyEmB-8T1th0MkNxl3HXDBR92C_l1eZuVZdsyD_MhwcgbJ57Wdw8RsQtu2XdejUcyHmEl7FJUBiHCz5va6xl/s400/afton2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435855696229605202" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.aftonvilla.com/">Afton Villa Gardens</a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Pests are a given... Spanish moss is evil, evil, evil but I can't help but romanticize it when in reference to Southern Gardens. Below is a photo from <a href="http://www.gardenvisit.com/garden/magnolia_plantation_garden">Magnolia Plantation</a>, which has been open to the public since the 1870s. This is a long time for Americans!<br /></div><a href="http://www.gardenvisit.com/assets/madge/magnolia_plantation_bridge/600x/magnolia_plantation_bridge_600x.jpg" rel="lightbox"><img src="http://www.gardenvisit.com/assets/madge/magnolia_plantation_bridge/384x/magnolia_plantation_bridge_384x.jpg" alt="Bridge, Magnolia Plantation Garden" /></a><br />photo by Carl<br /><br />Can't you just feel the humidity?<img src="http://www.magnoliaplantation.com/IMAGES/swamp_huffalumptree.jpg" alt="Huffalump Tree" border="0" height="393" width="500" /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br />This photo from <a href="http://www.aftonvilla.com/">Afton Villa Gardens</a> in Louisiana is a great transition to Azaleas, another Southern staple.<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihQTGbdFfBuccBZd9O6H5AIqA9yaDcngZAmzaJmxlBZIEfB7DsaxLEZX3VRfk8Ub5Qys1KrPjdHb1vumIUV2bYCmg13EdXuWQTYtyVPoK6ODfuZWNYuPoMnDMdcaEVgeROJZMTBe0E_do2/s1600-h/afton+villa.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 290px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihQTGbdFfBuccBZd9O6H5AIqA9yaDcngZAmzaJmxlBZIEfB7DsaxLEZX3VRfk8Ub5Qys1KrPjdHb1vumIUV2bYCmg13EdXuWQTYtyVPoK6ODfuZWNYuPoMnDMdcaEVgeROJZMTBe0E_do2/s400/afton+villa.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435851311631867266" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Azaleas (the old school variety; I've found that the the new, highly-advertised ones just don't up to the Southern heat). A great example at <a href="http://www.goodwoodmuseum.org/">Goodwood Museum and Gardens </a>in Tallahassee, Florida.<br /></div><br /><a href="http://www.gardenvisit.com/assets/madge/goodwood_garden_usa/600x/goodwood_garden_usa_600x.jpg" rel="lightbox"><img src="http://www.gardenvisit.com/assets/madge/goodwood_garden_usa/c185x165/goodwood_garden_usa_c185x165.jpg" alt="Goodwood Museum & Gardens, USA" /></a><a href="http://www.goodwoodmuseum.org/images/photo_gal/gardens/hi/gar26_hi.jpg" rel="lightbox[gardens]" title="Formosa azaleas on walkway to pool"><img src="http://www.goodwoodmuseum.org/images/photo_gal/gardens/lo/gar26_lo.jpg" height="118" width="148" /></a><a href="http://www.gardenvisit.com/assets/madge/goodwood_garden_tallahassee/600x/goodwood_garden_tallahassee_600x.jpg" rel="lightbox"><img src="http://www.gardenvisit.com/assets/madge/goodwood_garden_tallahassee/c185x165/goodwood_garden_tallahassee_c185x165.jpg" alt="Goodwood Museum & Gardens, Tallahassee" /></a><br />photos by <a href="http://www.karlgercens.com/">Karl Gercens</a> and the Goodwood Gardens (center)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">And while I'm leaving out numerous Southern gardens and plants, I can't not mention two of my favorite plants with their cool white flowers- Magnolias and Gardenias. Evergreen, so you have some winter interest, and lovely scented blooms in the summer. Can you get any better than that?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://alt.coxnewsweb.com/cnishared/tools/shared/mediahub/03/20/14/slideshow_1142038_gardenias0731a.jpg" alt="Gardenias take July in stride, spreading their scent like an evening benediction after a day of relentless heat under the blaring sun. Cultivating them, however, requires fussy attention." /><br /><a href="http://projects.ajc.com/gallery/view/living/garden/gardenias-garden/5.html">AJC</a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Gardenias in a container" src="http://www.learn2grow.com/gardeningguides/shrubs/featuredplants/%7E/media/images/articles/GardeniaHeavenScentLandscape_239x250.ashx" align="center" border="0" height="250" width="239" /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.learn2grow.com/gardeningguides/shrubs/featuredplants/GardeniasSoothingScenes.aspx">Learn2Grow</a><br /><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://inlinethumb14.webshots.com/45773/1018895977017307396S600x600Q85.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 600px; height: 450px;" src="http://inlinethumb14.webshots.com/45773/1018895977017307396S600x600Q85.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://home-and-garden.webshots.com/photo/1018895977017307396VYqxURZPAw">leonardj446</a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Southern magnolia flower" src="http://www.clemson.edu/extension/hgic/graphics/1015/evergreenmagnoliaflwrw.jpg" title="Southern magnolia flower" align="bottom" border="0" height="225" hspace="3" vspace="0" width="300" /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.clemson.edu/extension/hgic/plants/landscape/trees/hgic1015.html">Clemson Extension<br /></a></div><br />OK, sometimes Magnolias are pink.<br /></div><img src="http://www.mooseyscountrygarden.com/botanical-gardens/magnolia-tree-path.jpg" alt=" One of the many Magnolia trees is in full bloom. " title=" One of the many Magnolia trees is in full bloom. " height="474" width="600" /><br />via <a href="http://www.mooseyscountrygarden.com/botanical-gardens/christchurch-botanic-gardens-4.html">Moosey's Country Garden</a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Check out <a href="http://www.gardenvisit.com/">Garden Visit</a> to find gardens to visit. For more on Southern Gardening, you must visit <a href="http://www.phillipoliver.net/garden.htm">Phillip Oliver's blog</a> (his gardens are amazing!) and <a href="http://taradillard.blogspot.com/">Tara Dillard's blog</a> (I was fortunate to have taken her class on Southern Gardening at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens). <br /><br />For more resources, great books include <a href="http://www.hachettebookgroup.com/books_9780821257753.htm">The Southern Garden</a> by Lydia Longshore<img src="http://www.hachettebookgroup.com/_images/ISBNCovers/Covers_Large/9780821257753_154X233.jpg" alt="9780821257753_154X233" /> and A Southern Garden by <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Southern-Garden-Elizabeth-Lawrence/dp/0807849308/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpi_1">Elizabeth Lawrence</a>.<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/reader/0807849308/ref=sib_dp_pt#reader-link" onclick="if (typeof(SitbReader) != 'undefined') { SitbReader.LightboxActions.openReader('sib_dp_pt'); return false; }"><img onload="if (typeof uet == 'function') { uet('af'); }" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51WclkWp6jL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA240_SH20_OU01_.jpg" id="prodImage" onmouseover="sitb_showLayer('bookpopover'); return false;" onmouseout="sitb_doHide('bookpopover'); return false;" alt="A Southern Garden" border="0" height="240" width="240" /></a><br /><br />Have a great day!<br /><br />Emmie<br /></div></div>Southern Aspirationshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00042045652329926178noreply@blogger.com26