After spending Thanksgiving in Big Sur, I was a little slow getting my Christmas decor on in Santa Barbara. Our plan is to spend Christmas in Big Sur as well, but winter storms are unpredictable and rock slides and closures on Highway 1 are common this time of year. So I’m hedging my bets and decorating a bit in both homes. I’m just not sure which one will get the tree! I favor an organic approach to Christmas decorating…pinecones, driftwood,…
Those of you who have followed me for some time, know I like to set a simple table…and usually with items I have on hand. I tend toward a neutral fall and winter decor, but I shocked my husband when I added just a tiny bit of autumnal color to a table for a recent dinner party. My inspiration were a pair of two tone mini rose plants that I bought at our local farmers market for $6. I miscalculated…
One of the questions I get asked most often, is “what do I put on my empty walls?” First of all, there’s nothing wrong with some empty wall space. In fact, it’s often a good thing! But a home devoid of art can feel a bit soulless. You don’t have to have a lot of money or a large collection of art, but it should be meaningful. I would rather see a blank wall than something randomly picked up at…
It occurred to me, now that I am in the process of helping a new client choose finishes for her kitchen, that some people are afraid of white. They think the kitchen will be too stark or feel cold and clinical. My client wants a white kitchen in her vintage 1925 Spanish style home, but just isn’t sure how it will feel. My own kitchen in Santa Barbara was not white when we purchased the house, and there was no…
Hi! I realize it’s been a long time since you’ve heard from me here. Sometimes life gets unexpectedly busy…in a good way. I’ve been involved in new projects, helping my daughter set up her new place, and oh, we bought a house in Big Sur! I’m looking forward to blogging again and sharing my projects with you, along with the work we’ve been doing on our new Big Sur home. And for all of you who have asked, we have…
I’ve had a love affair with Home Bunch since I first moved to California. Moving from the East coast was quite a transition and meant a change of lifestyle. Life here is geared to the outdoors and I wanted my home to lend itself to that…easy, bright, comfortable and welcoming. Luciane’s blog Home Bunch was such an inspiration with gorgeous homes from all over! But best of all, she lists sources for everything, including furniture, light fixtures, cabinet hardware and yes, paint…
I have shared this recipe before, but I believe with warmer weather on the way, it should be shared again. It’s that good! I served these to friends this past weekend and the next day one friend wrote: “I know what those cocktails should be called; KILLER! The color is totally appropriate! Just remember, I warned you! I found this recipe in Food & Wine magazine. Chef Dean Fearing created this drink which is a best seller at his wife Lynae’s…
It has been a rough winter in Santa Barbara. From the Thomas Fire to the mudslides, everything has been turned upside down. We have not had rain since the slide and with warmer than normal temperatures, it certainly doesn’t feel like winter. Although it is only the beginning of February, I was feeling the need for a bit of color and to lighten things up both aesthetically and emotionally.…
