Stacy Claire Boyd

Thanksgiving Place Cards

2011-11-23T13:34:00.004-06:00

Just thought I'd share a picture of the place cards I did for this year's Thanksgiving table. I used alphabet macaroni letters with some craft feathers that I had in my crafty-closet, and put them on a piece of folded brown card stock. My kids are going to love them! Happy Thanksgiving all!

"O" Boy!

2011-11-21T12:31:00.003-06:00

We were so excited to be a part of O Magazine's “Favorite Things” list this year, which featured our monogrammed string gift tags.

This Thanksgiving...

2011-11-21T09:43:00.001-06:00

Taking the time to stop and allow yourself to really think about the holiday and what it means, it's honestly not my 1st thought. Thanksgiving 2011 for me, however, is looking back at my year and being thankful for my blessings, looking ahead and being hopeful, looking upward and finding strength and looking inward and finding peace.

For me, it has been a year that deserves a little quiet reflection & appreciation. We truly have so much to be thankful for. When I think about Thanksgiving Day and having all of my family around me...how the house smells delicious and everyone is happy and looking forward to being together... I want to remind everyone to stop and remember what they are thankful for this year.

My centerpiece for this year's Thanksgiving table asks family members to add a leaf to the "Thankful Tree" and share what they are thankful for. Then, in return they may choose one of the hidden-treasure walnuts underneath the tree. Crack it open and reveal a special surprise...perhaps a piece of candy, a little message or a gold dollar coin (you'd be surprised how many different little treasures will actually fit inside a walnut.) This is a wonderful and fun tradition my family has shared throughout the years, and is a great way to mix a little conversation and excitement to the Thanksgiving dinner table.

Pretty DIY Pattern Notepads

2011-11-21T08:53:00.009-06:00

If you are anything like me, notpads are one of those things you can't live without. Not only am I an avid list-maker, but I always doodle and sketch out ideas while I'm on on the phone or when I'm just sitting around the house. I can literally go through a notepad every two weeks, which can get pretty expensive considering I like to jot down my notes on something prettier than the average bland white utilitarian notepad.

Recently, I found a way to "perk" up an average inexpensive tear-off pad that my kids always seem to have around for school needs. Using a ruler and an x-acto knife, I cut thin strips of patterned scrapbook paper to teh width of the pads, coat the back with a good smear of the glue stick, and press on the top of the unattractive cardboard at the top of the pad. Voilà!...a beautiful notepad I’m not embarrassed to carry around in public, and it only cost me around a buck. And think of what a cute little gift it would make for another “listy-lady” in your life. Just stack a couple of different size notepads together with a nice writing pen, tie together with twine and a gift tag, and you’re done.

Sometimes, it’s the little things that make you smile!

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T12:35:00.004-06:00

I thought I'd share two quick and fun Valentine's Day projects.
The first one was done by my youngest daughter Claire. She used color tape (I just found out they made it...who knew?), stickers and construction paper to create these cute little hearts to pass out to friends.

This one I just love. My friend Todd and his daughter used a box that some sweet Valentine's treats come in as a template, and recreated them into i-treats. What an adorable idea for kiddos who are a little older.

Hope you all have a love filled day with your sweeties!

Resolving to enjoy the little things

2011-01-31T11:44:00.005-06:00

So here it is…a new year, a new beginning. A time when we all get to “clean house” in our lives and try to forget about the unrealized dreams and broken promises we made to ourselves this time last year. As I began to think through my familiar list of optimistic goals for the year that would help guide me to a life of blissful happiness (exercise more, find a new hobby, work more efficiently, cut out sugar, keep a cleaner house…) I realized that my list seemed more like a list of chores than a guide to happiness.

After thinking it through and really asking myself what it would take to make 2011 better than 2010, I began to get some clarity. As a busy mother of three and a business owner, I sometimes focus so much on the big picture that I often forget to stop and smell the roses. Though when your daily list of things-to-do takes up more than one sheet of your notepad, it’s a little hard to schedule in rose smelling. So how does one squeeze in time to enjoy life’s little pleasures despite all the chaos around you? Like Nike says, Just Do It.
I may not have time to train for a marathon, or learn how to knit, or keep my home clean enough to be ready for a magazine shoot at the drop of a hat, but I do have time to create little bits of happiness for myself throughout the day. And hey, let’s be honest…life gets so nuts sometimes that simple pleasures may be the only thing that can get you through that day, and ready to take on the next one.

With that being said, I have decided to resolve to make life more fun for myself and fill my days with little perks and pick-me-ups during this new year. Some of the most trivial things can really change my mood for the better, like getting into bed with clean sheets or taking a few extra minutes in the morning to make an iced coffee. I’ve started a whole list of ideas (which I’ve shared below) that will hopefully keep me smiling a little brighter in 2011.

*Have fresh flowers, herbs, or pretty clippings from the yard and put them in little vases or jars all around the house
*Get a magazine subscription that your husband or kids wouldn’t be interested in or tempted to swipe. Once a month, it’ll turn up in your mailbox and make your day.
*Get a book on tape that you can listen to in the carpool line or on your way to one of the hundreds of places you have to go to in a week’s time
* Keep a large bowl of cleaned and cut lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers and carrots so that you’ll have a ready-to-eat salad whenever you need it
*Clean the inside of your refrigerator
*Set the table with pretty dishes and napkins for a special family dinner, but order Chinese take-out so you won’t have to do one bit of cooking
*Make your bed every morning
*Donate the clutter. You are never going to use that Thigh Master again.
*When you do the dishes, crank up your favorite CD and sing along
*Take a personal day off work to go to the movies. Get popcorn and coke, and don’t feel guilty about it.
*Get a car wash
*Fill pretty glass bottle dispensers with hand and dish soap
*Give yourself a facial.
*Have a secret stash of your favorite candy that the kids don’t know about.
*Drink more water
*Go to bed at a decent hour
*Light your favorite scented candle
*Enjoy, because you deserve it

Champagne cage chairs

2011-01-25T08:51:00.006-06:00

Wow. Sometimes I think I'm crafty, and then some creative genius comes along and reminds me that I have not yet begun to craft. Seriously, how beautiful and ingenious is this project from The Tamara Blog? I only wish I'd come across this a month ago before the Holidays, so that I'd have a few champagne cages to test my skills with. Oh well, looks like I now have an excuse to buy a few more bottles of bubbly! Tamara even gives a demonstration of how to make these little gems, here. I can't believe how easy it is. I love the idea of setting these out as place card holders at my next get-together. What great little conversation pieces. Thanks, Tamara!

Form and Function

2011-01-04T14:27:00.005-06:00

You get form and function with these stylish bags from S. Stein... love them! They even have a collection inspired by the quirky town of Marfa, Texas.

Kitty Named Moo

2010-06-07T09:52:00.004-05:00

I'm really more of a dog person but this cat could steal anyone's heart. Photos courtesy of Color Me Katie.

Sweet Occasion

2010-06-03T14:23:00.003-05:00

Is this not the cutest party ever? Photos courtesy of The Sweetest Occasion.

Puebla, Mexico

2010-05-28T14:39:00.002-05:00

The color and textures of Puebla, Mexico... a lovely colonial town 2 hours east of Mexico City.

Paper Flower Shoppe

2010-05-27T15:06:00.001-05:00

I love the creativity that is everywhere you look in David Stark's Paper Flower Shoppe...isn't it great?

Online Magazines

2010-05-25T15:41:00.002-05:00

Just some great online magazines courtesy of decor8.

Katrina's Bridal Shower

2010-05-21T14:08:00.005-05:00

Happy Friday, everyone!
Today was a fun day around the office for us. My friend Lisa and I threw a Bridal Shower for a co-worker of ours, Katrina. We decorated in orange and pink, and reworked one of the cards in our stationery line to match the party colors. We made a cute little "Money Tree" and hung fanned out bills as a gift, and favors were cookies and cute little flower rings from annie b boutique. A fun time was had by all, and Katrina was thrilled! Too bad we can't find a reason to party everyday. Maybe I'll have to start making things up to celebrate..."Paper Cup Day...Hoorah!"
Congratulations, Katrina and Barron!

Rie Elise Larsen

2010-05-20T14:00:00.003-05:00

I just love all of these things from Rie Elise Larsen. Especially all of the hang-y up-y stuff.

Tea Party in the Park

2010-05-18T14:40:00.005-05:00

It just does not get any cuter than this Japanese Tea Party in Central Park spotted over at the imprintables blog and created by the folks over at lmnop. So adorable!

Love these erasers...

2010-05-17T14:23:00.004-05:00

Holy cow...how cute are these things! Why didn't they have these when I was a kid. I would have stopped bothering my mother for fancy dolls and been completely content playing with erasers instead! Check out more at Hapaculture.com.

NYSS May 16-19

2010-05-13T14:28:00.009-05:00

I am so excited about this coming weekend! I'll be at the National Stationery Show in N.Y.C. showing off all of our newest designs that we've been working so hard on for the past few months. Now it's scramble time, getting all of the last minute details dealt with and loose ends tied (isn't it ALWAYS like that before any trip...or is it just me?).
I am also thrilled about our recent partnership with PrintsWell, a well known and widely respected fulfillment company in the Stationery Industry. I'll be with some of the great people from PrintsWell in booth #2444 at the show, so if you're in the city stop by and see us! I can't wait to show off the amazing new Everyday and Holiday books that we're debuting, and I'm also happy to announce that our pricing has lowered substantially...which should bring a smile to everyone's face!
Hope to see you there!
Below: Some of the designs from our new Everyday Album containing social stationery, invitations and announcements.

The Coop

2010-05-10T10:43:00.004-05:00

I hope that everyone had a Happy Mother's Day! I had a very quiet and relaxing day, which was wonderful.

I always love anything to do with children and kid's parties...I recently found out about a cute place called "The Coop" in Los Angeles. It's a fun, modern place that that can be enjoyed by the kiddo's as well as mom and dad (hello, coffee bar!). They do private parties, as well as host open free play. I would have LOVED a place like that when my sweeties were little chick-a-dees!

Sugarcoat It Studio

2010-05-04T07:55:00.002-05:00

I found this site that has beautiful, modern, clean cake design. Check out some of these pretty things.

Great Mother's Day Gift

2010-04-26T12:06:00.003-05:00

I am loving these sweet little rings for mother's day from Love and Victory. My youngest child saw me looking at them on line this morning and said, "What about Kate Gosselin, what would she do...hope she has some lonnnnnnng fingers!"

Chocolate, Hazelnut and Coconut Mousse Cakes

2010-04-23T14:04:00.004-05:00

Don't these wonderful little cakes look scrumptious! Recipes can be found here.

Love & Toast

2010-04-20T15:11:00.003-05:00

I love Love & Toast handcreams and I'm such a sucker for pretty packaging! Still trying to decide which one is my favorite... right now I'm enjoying the mandarin tea.

Easy Cheesy

2010-04-19T08:29:00.001-05:00

Here's a quick and easy crowd pleaser.

The Macbeth Collection

2010-04-16T10:25:00.004-05:00

I love all of the cute galvanized buckets, tubs & vases from The Macbeth Collection. There are a million uses for these adorable containers...they are terrific for storage, icing down beverages, flower buckets, holding party supplies, etc... So cute and perfect for spring & summer fun!

Charmed

2010-04-12T14:54:00.002-05:00

I'm a big fan of photographer and designer Monica Rich Kosann. Here are several of her lovely little charms that I fell in love with recently. What talent!

Jaime Oliver

2010-04-07T14:21:00.011-05:00

My friend Todd recently told me about an app for the iphone called 20 minute meals- Jamie Oliver. It is the best cooking app and it costs $7.99. When I dug a little deeper and learned more about the renowned British chef & host of Food Revolution, I became a big fan. In my research I found a video describing his latest project, which is his mission to lead a food revolution in this country and I say it's about time! I think he is awesome and the changes that he is setting out to make are desperately needed. You simply ROCK, Jamie Oliver! Watch this video and become a fan too ( I found this on Joanna Goddard's blog- A cup of Jo.)

Animal Portraits

2010-04-05T14:18:00.000-05:00

Love this!

Button Prints

2010-04-02T08:07:00.004-05:00

A cute button print by Eva Juliet that I found via eat drink chic. I just love anything with buttons!

Easter Collage

2010-04-02T08:04:00.002-05:00

Just a collage of pastel Easter images that I thought were pretty. My friend Jennifer sent me this today.

crewcuts

2010-03-31T15:35:00.002-05:00

Just love all the cute new crewcuts clothes for kids!

Grocery Store Musical

2010-03-29T15:33:00.003-05:00

Saw this great video on color me Katie. My daughter tells me that it's been around for a while but I never saw it. It made me chuckle and wish that I shopped at that grocery store. I would have loved to experience that in person... too funny!

Juicy Wedding

2010-03-26T15:19:00.004-05:00

Love this beautiful wedding and all of it's orangejuicy details...isn't it wonderful?

credit: stylemepretty.com

Ring in Spring!

2010-03-25T13:07:00.003-05:00

Above: Found these lovelies at Kate Spade. $75-$95
Below: Some funky designs from Old Gold Boutique. I particularly love the "Circo de Bango" cirucus tent ring. So fun! $45-$55

Easter Gift Jars

2010-03-24T15:17:00.003-05:00

What a wonderful idea for a fresh take on the traditional Easter basket... or even just a special something extra to put in it. I just love these Mason jars filled with Easter treats!

Birthday Surprise

2010-03-23T10:16:00.003-05:00

I just love this! Wouldn't you just die if someone wished you a happy birthday in such a creative and thoughtful way. Absolutely positively PRECIOUS! A big "thank you" to San Fran based party planner Jordan Ferney and his wonderful blog Oh Happy Day! for sharing this sweet moment. This just shows that it doesn't take a lot of money to make someone feel like a million bucks!

Wine Tag Humor

2010-03-23T10:06:00.003-05:00

I love these adorable wine tags from Papermash...and they are so perfect for me because whenever I choose a wine as a gift, I always feel like I need to include a disclaimer or a note of apology incase it is no good (I'm afraid I wouldn't know the difference...after a few sips it all tastes pretty good to me)! I always choose the wine based on the pretty bottle or label never knowing a thing about the wine itself...that is why these tags are just what I need : )

Free Cone Day 2010!

2010-03-23T09:58:00.003-05:00

Well, I can't believe that it has been nearly a year since I started this blog. I wouldn't have believed it if I didn't hear that it was time for "Free Cone Day" at Ben & Jerry's...which happened to be the first thing I ever blogged about. So get out today and get yourselves some free ice cream love at the grooviest ice cream parlor in America!

Flowery Balloons

2010-03-18T15:24:00.002-05:00

Looking back at some of my favorite kid's party inspiration that I have kept. This flowery ballon party from Martha Stewart Kids magazine is definately one that has always stayed in my mind. I love all of the clever ways that they have used the balloon blossoms... just adorable!

Easter Egg Ideas

2010-03-17T15:04:00.004-05:00

Here are a couple of my favorite Martha Stewart ideas for decorating your Easter Eggs. Instructions on the spring menagerie eggs can be found here. Instructions on the cracked eggshells and chick can be found here.

Liberty of London for Target is here!

2010-03-16T14:26:00.005-05:00

I mentioned a while back that Liberty of London has a limited time offering at Target that I am thrilled about! Well, the new line previewed the other day and of course I was one of the first through the doors to see what they had before my fellow L of L admirers snatched it all up! The items were gorgeous...cute ladies clothing, bathing suits, wallets, totes, dishes, etc. I have to say...I went a bit crazy. There won't be much left to buy soon, so make sure you get there soon!

Click here to view all of their new items for Target.

Mud Australia

2010-03-15T14:22:00.004-05:00

Loving these soft beautiful handmade dishes and platters from Mud Australia... so perfect for setting your Easter table!

Little Bee Birthday

2010-03-11T07:46:00.003-06:00

I always love visiting the blog of inchmark. They have such clean fresh designs... always something adorable! Here are a few cute things done for little Bee's birthday party... so sweet.

Spring Sweets

2010-03-09T16:11:00.002-06:00

I'm ready for spring and warmer weather, sandals and all the nice things that go along with this time of year. I love pastel colors and sweet little cakes and these are some of the cutest that I've seen lately.

Eye Candy

2010-03-08T13:10:00.006-06:00

This is the definition of eye candy! I found this wedding on Style Me Pretty and I am just eatin' it up... every sweet detail.

Ministyle

2010-03-05T15:16:00.003-06:00

We just recently moved and my two young daughters are wanting a little space of their own to 'hang out' in. This house happens to have a small little attic nook that I'm thinking about letting them decorate after I get it to more of a finished space. They are so excited about this possibility as they flip through the latest issue of Pottery Barn Teen catalog putting post-its on all the fun chairs and colorful shag rugs that they want for their space. So, I kinda' have all of that on my mind these days...and here are a few things that I found that interest me for the project from Ministyle.com.

Burgon & Ball Jars

2010-03-04T07:52:00.002-06:00

I think these jars are so pretty, I often want to make little jarred gifts for friends and the jars are always so old-fashioned looking. I think these are modern and wonderful!

Flip Burger

2010-03-03T14:10:00.004-06:00

I finally got out to check out one of our newest buzzed about restaurants here in Birmingham called Flip Burger. This is Flip's second location, after much success with their first restaurant in Atlanta. Flip's menu was conceived by none other than Richard Blais, the very talented Top Chef contestant from Bravo's hit TV show that came in second place a few seasons ago (he clearly...in my opinion...should have won). Stepping into the restaurant, it's easy to see that this isn't your average burger joint! The decor, as well as the crowd is very mod, the indie music is cranked up, and the staff proudly show off their piercings and tattoos. The menu items are simple in theme (think burgers, fries and milkshakes) but further inspection reveals the interesting twists that keep people talking...such as the venison burger with gooseberry relish, brie, toasted pecans and mushroom jam...the panko and parmesan zucchini fries...or the almost instantly famous Krispy Kreme liquid nitrogen milkshake. Everything we ordered at our table was mouth-watering in presentation and taste, and I have a feeling that it won't take long for more Flip's to start sprouting up around the country.

The Owls are Hunting

2010-03-02T12:13:00.005-06:00

As you may (or may not) remember, I have quite a thing for lamps. Well, you can only imagine how gaga I went when I found this site...The Owls are Hunting. These beautiful and fun lamps have each gotten a makeover from this talented English artist named Jo who now resides in Australia. She takes vintage lamps and adds a new base along with a handmade lampshade and, voila!...a gorgeous lamp that I want so badly. This is just the kind of thing that makes my heart race.....LOVVVVVVVVVVVVE!

The Spoon Sisters

2010-02-26T11:22:00.006-06:00

I just recently found the company The Spoon Sisters online and I found so many cute little items. They have a little bit of everything... but here are a few of my favorites...go to their site and click around and see which things you like...enjoy! Have a great weekend!

Below: Alphabet, Number & Symbol Ice Trays
Below: Match & Munch Sandwich Cutters

Below: Soapsicles What a cute party favor idea!

Below: Art School Bandages

Below: Mini Happy Birthday Banner
I'm going to order this and surprise my daughter by hanging it on her school locker next week for her b'day. Shhh...don't tell!

Below: Bibs to go - A tear off pad

johnnie b

2010-02-25T13:40:00.007-06:00

Wow...I keep getting great news about the ventures of my favorite companies! First Liberty of London coming to Target, and now one of my all time faves Mini Boden has begun designing for teens and tweens with their new division johnnie b. I remember lamenting the day I had to throw out my Mini Boden catalog because my girls had gotten too big. Looks like they have a special deal on right now to promote the new line...a cute Union Jack bag with your first order.

Linzie Hunter

2010-02-24T14:16:00.006-06:00

I was poking around looking for a hand-lettering font today and I came across all of these lovely examples of letter-art from England based artist Linzie Hunter. Every good stationery designer knows that lettering becomes a part of the art on our little paper canvases, but it looks like in Linzie's world the letters are the stars. I just love this!

Liberty of London at Target!

2010-02-23T11:42:00.003-06:00

I have always loved Liberty of London. When my girls were younger, they wore precious little smocked dresses made of Liberty of London fabrics...each one a little treasure. My dog wore a Liberty of London collar and I designed stationery that had that timeless feeling with dear little florals, so perfect to announce the arrival of a sweet baby girl. When I lived in New York City I would go uptown just to walk through the Liberty of London store and drool my way through all of their inspirational patterns with their perfect color combinations. Today, my daughter Annie uses many of their fabrics to design such adorable hair accessories and jewelry for her annie b boutique line. Well, with all of that said, you can only imagine my excitement when I learned (from the Real Simple Blog) that Liberty of London will be at Target this Spring, March 14th, is what I've heard. This will be for a limited time only, here are a few of the items that they will be offering...can't wait!

Cell Phone Cases

2010-02-22T14:42:00.003-06:00

We stopped by the MAC store the other day and saw some really cute iPhone cases. My daughter Claire ended up with the Kate Spade stripey one...so cute!

Rice

2010-02-18T15:52:00.003-06:00

If I could, I would buy one of everything that they have in their catalog! I'm just lovin' all of the colorful wonderful goodies in the new rice spring/summer 2010 catalog! ...want.want.want.

Oren Lavie

2010-02-17T11:19:00.001-06:00

j'adore oren lavie!

2010-02-17T11:17:00.001-06:00

"growing old is mandatory, but growing up is optional" -rick alvis

photo credit: the fabulous Shana Rae

Cottage Delight

2010-02-15T14:25:00.006-06:00

I love this new Cottage Style magazine that I picked up at the store the other day. I'm nuts over the way this home owner had her place decorated. The colors and mix of textures are awesome!I also love a quote that was in the magazine from one of the homeowners whose cottage was featured..."Buy what you love, and you'll find a place for it." So true, so true.

Felt Valentine's Garland

2010-02-12T12:24:00.004-06:00

I found this really cute felt Valentine's Day garland intructional over at Apartment Therapy. I've always wanted to learn how to felt. This would be a really fun first project. Hope you all have a lovely Valentine's Day!What You Need
Materials*wool roving: a 50 gram ball will make about 15 1" felt balls*fingering or lace weight yarn: to string the felt hearts onto*old or cheap pantyhose/tights*scissors*laundry detergent*felting needle*padded envelope*hand sewing needle: with an eye big enough to put the yarn through
Equipment*washing machine
Instructions
1. Cut separated out roving into two 8" sections.
2. Lay one of the sections across the other.
3. Roll them up into a ball.
4. Cut the leggs off of the pantyhose. Tie a knot at the toe and then stuff the ball of roving inside.
5. Tie another knot and repeat the process to make as many felt balls as you'd like.
6. Put the stockings full of roving balls into the washing machine. Run it through a hot cycle with some laundry detergent. I threw in a pair of jeans to give it extra agitation. This is where the felting magic happens!
7. Remove stockings from the washing machine. Cut them open just below the knots to peel out the felt balls.
8. Roll them in your hands to help round them into balls. (note: You can stop here if you simply want to make a felt ball garland!)
9. Using the felting needle, stab the felt ball repeatedly to create the crease that will be the top of the heart. This can be a little time consuming, but by pinching the felt with your fingers then stabbing the compressed felt it goes a little faster.
10. To make the point at the bottom of the heart I pinched the felt together and stabbed through it. It helps to do this over a padded shipping envelope because 1) You won't stab your fingers, and 2) You won't break your felting needle by stabbing the table. Carry on until you are pleased with the shape and density of your felt heart.
11. Thread your yarn onto the sewing needle. Pierce the heart near the top to ensure that the top heavy hearts with hang properly on your garland. Hooray, you are done! Hang up your garland and enjoy.

Sweet Valentine's Sweets

2010-02-11T11:46:00.005-06:00

So when I think of Valentine's day, I tend to think of two words...dainty and sweet. I'm talkin' tiny little lacey hearts, pink scalloped icing, all things pink and all things sugary. I can think of none finer in the arena of "all things cute" than the ever talented hello naomi. You may or may not be familiar with this gem of a custom-order confectionery located in Newcastle, Australia...but let me tell you, if you haven't seen their sweet creations you are surely missing out on a feast of the eyes. If only their handywork was available locally over here across the pond. I'd love to say "Happy Valentine's Day" to my sweeties with a box of these sweets!

Card Table Playhouses

2010-02-10T12:19:00.008-06:00

Below: Pirate Card Table Playhouse (includes cool Pirate Messenger Bag) - $170 Below: Double Delight Card Table Playhouse - $175

Below: Fire Station Card Table Playhouse - $140

Below: Bluebird Cottage in Pink (includes personalized address, curtains, removable apples, watering can and "mail") - $175

I love the simplicity and creativity of these adorable card table playhouses from etsy seller Miss Pretty Pretty's "Imaginative Play Toys" site. Who doesn't remember those days of making a fort out of bedsheets strung over various items of furniture in the family room or creating a little house out of a large cardboard box? Miss Pretty Pretty takes it one step further with these beautiful felt creations that fit snuggly over a card table. I love the fact that they set up so quick, and can be stored flat so they don't take up much real estate in the house. And the little details like felt letters that can be put into the mailboxes are too cute! My favorites are above.

BloemBox

2010-02-09T15:38:00.003-06:00

What a precious gift for Valentine's Day...or for any occasion, really. Bulbs or seeds that will grow into beautiful flowers, all tucked inside this precious little keepsake box that is ready for gift-giving. I just love everything about it! I have seen them in a few catalogs for several years now, but they have expanded their line and have so many different things to choose from. I can't decide between the specialty, seed mat gardens, habitat gardens, perennials or mini standards! Which would you choose? They help you find a store in your area if you want to pick up a few. In Birmingham, I found them at Snoozy's Kids in Crestline Village. Go see George, he'll get you fixed up :)

Mix My Granola

2010-02-08T14:03:00.003-06:00

Oh boy...I'm not sure if I'm having good karma, good timing or just good luck but I am so very excited to hear about this new company that has gotten rave reviews and lets you create your own mixes of granola. MixMyGranola.com lets you pick your own granola base (organic muesli, please) then add in your personal selection of different ingredients like fruit, nuts, candies and "enhancers" (I'll take dried blueberries with almonds and chocolate bits). You can even name your mix and upload a photo for the packaging. This site is heaven-sent because I've recently been mourning the absence of my very favorite brand from the grocery isles. Plus, from the looks of the reviews posted, it seems as if this stuff is amazing. Yum!

Smart Cookies

2010-02-05T10:40:00.005-06:00

I have been an admirer of Eleni's cookies for years. I love to visit her site every once in awhile just to see the pretty new sweets that she has added to her repertoire. Valentine's goodies are always particularly playful and fun! Here are some of my favorites...have a lovely weekend.

Rainbow Breakfast

2010-02-04T14:26:00.005-06:00

So my friend Melissa just told me that she'll be having a "Rainbow" themed party for her little birthday gal's slumber party later this month. I am encouraging her to serve these hilarious rainbow colored pancakes for breakfast! How cute are they?!

Mama Rosa

2010-02-03T14:47:00.003-06:00

I just love these beautiful handmade knits from Mama Rosa's Knits. What a special baby gift they would make, even down to their adorable signature wrap... precious!

Fun Valentine's Ideas

2010-02-02T12:00:00.008-06:00

Oh how I miss the days where I got to choose what Valentine's day cards my kids sent out. I would have been all over these "Friendship Blossoms" and "Treat Transmitters" crafts from Family Fun Magazine. Alas...long gone are the days of sincere sentiments and sweet images. Here is what my youngest daughter Claire designed for her Valentine's Day pass out this year...

I'm not knocking Nick Jonas (rock on, Jonas Brothers)...I'm just saying...where did my little ones go?

Circus Party

2010-02-01T14:35:00.004-06:00

I just saw this awe-inspiring Circus party up on the fantastic Party Perfect blog. The kids could not be cuter and the styling....just amazing. It doesn't get much better than this!

Images: The Winding Road blog.

Donna Hay

2010-01-28T14:21:00.007-06:00

I was so excited to hear that the incomparable Donna Hay has a new book entitled Seasons that just came out. I just happened to notice it while browsing her website. I'm sure it is every bit as mouthwatering and gorgeous as everything she has ever done. I also read while on her site that she is now dabbling in homewares. I can't wait to see what she comes up with!
Oh, and of course I had to grab a recipe for this weekend. Hopefully mine will turn out this beautiful! Here's the info for it.

There's No Place Like Home!

2010-01-27T11:30:00.003-06:00

Here are a few pics of an ever so sweet Wizard of Oz party that I spotted on the wonderful imprintables blog. How fun!

William's 4th Birthday

2010-01-26T08:42:00.003-06:00

I absolutely love this party that Sharnel (from one of my favorite blogs my life-my loves) created for her son's birthday party. The navy and green theme is unique and wonderful. I love the way you do things, Sharnel....crisp and clean with attention to every detail...very inspiring!

Click here to get more details on William's awesome party.

Anna French

2010-01-25T13:16:00.003-06:00

I have been a long-time fan of designer Anna French...even her name is perfect. I have always been drawn to her sense of color, particularly in her children's wallpaper design. She now has a new collection out called Wild Flora. I just love wallpaper, if I had my way, every room in my house would be papered in a totally different print and colorway. There would be no rhyme or reason to what I chose...each room would stand alone and their would be no flow from room to room. It would end up looking somewhat like a fun house, I'm sure...but I could satisfy all of my different loves...and when I'm feeling peaceful I could go be in my soft, muted, very little color room and when I'm feeling more playful and fun, I could be surrounded by a wild pattern in pinks and reds. It would be kinda' like a mood house :)

Artist Leah Anderson's Portland Cottage

2010-01-21T14:22:00.006-06:00

I was just wondering around the All Things Cottage blog site when I happened apon this lovely posting of the cottage owned by Portland artist Leah Anderson. What beautiful style and talent.

Here's what All Things Cottage had to say about the artist:

"Born in British Guyana, South America, Leah gained a broad view of societies and cultures as her father’s exploits as an adventurer meant living and traveling to new and exotic countries all over the world. After completing her education, mostly in British schools, she spent twenty years dedicated to family and horses. Clearly her appreciation for calm and serenity is reflected in the decorating style which she displays in her comfortable cottage…the perfect space for her and her husband, and their guests, to enjoy the relaxing tranquility Leah so cherishes."

These beautiful images are of Leah's home and artwork from the ATC blog.

SPROUT HOME

2010-01-20T13:10:00.009-06:00

SPROUT HOME is a cool retailer/website with lots of unique gifts and gardening what-nots. A friend of mine use to live down the road from their Chicago store (she raves about how beautiful the storefront is), and they also have a Brooklyn, NY location. Here are some of my faves I found on their site.
They have a great blog to...check it out here.
Clockwise from top left: Bloom Floral Coaster Set, Assorted Rubber Bowls, Pantone Mugs, Table Cutlery and Napkin Set for One Person, Nesting Doll Measuring Cups, Cray Watering Can, Garden-in-a-bag Basil and Lavendar, Souvenir Tea Towels, Porcelain Milk Carton

Sweet Winter Treat

2010-01-19T10:40:00.004-06:00

I just saw this sweet post on the awesome bakerella blog and was so impressed with this young gal Emelie from Sweden who created magical winter cakes using winter's finest ingredient! What creativity!

Nele Azevedo's Ice Figurines

2010-01-18T12:10:00.006-06:00

Some of you may have seen images of this amazing art installation done by Brazilian artist Nele Azevedo who sculpted one thousand tiny ice figurines and placed them on the sun-warmed cement steps of the concert hall in Berlin's Gendarmenmarkt Square in late 2009. The figurines, which began melting within half an hour, were meant to bring awareness to the World Wildlife Fund's warnings on Climate Change.

What a beautiful and haunting sight that must have been to see in person.

Just Something She Made

2010-01-15T10:15:00.007-06:00

I think this is one of the greatest craft projects I've seen in a while. I stumbled upon Cathe Holden's blog Just Something I Made and am so happy I did. Look at this gorgeous project. Self admittedly, I am a jewelry junkie...but I can think of so many other cute ways to incorporate this idea. Here's Cathe's tutorial on the project an her images from the JSIM blog. LOVE. IT.

Faux Engraved Jewelry from Acrylic Stamps from Cathe Holden:

"To make my pieces, I first ordered the sampler set of bezel settings from Etsy seller dasb56. When they arrived, I carefully measured the inside area of each bezel. I designed my images in Adobe Illustrator to size with the engraved area white and the raised area black."

"Before committing to the sizes, I first printed the images out onto cardstock to place in the settings to make sure I had a good fit."

"I then emailed a PDF file of the images to a local B&M North Coast Stamps (they also do web orders if you don’t have a local shop near you!). I requested the stamps un-cut. My order was ready the same day. Set up this way, the individual image/stamps averaged just over $3 a piece. When placing an order like this, be certain to explain what you are making and that you do not want the image mirrored as with traditional rubber stamps, since you won’t be stamping with them. I cut out each individual stamp image, double checked their fit into their settings and trimmed as necessary."

"I used enamel paint to coat each piece, Krylon Fusion spray paint for plastic for the black and red and Testors paint for model painting for the blue and silver. Once dry, I used acrylic paint to enhance the engraved areas of some by filling the area well and wiping the surface clean. I gave each piece a final finishing coat of clear matte enamel spray and glued each stamp into its setting with Super Glue."

Below are Cathe's beautiful finished pieces. Gorgeous!

Initial Success

2010-01-15T10:03:00.005-06:00

A friend of mine recently introduced me to local Birmingham gal Allison Banks and her beautiful calligraphy and monogram business. Allison says she's been perfecting her art since her teenage years and has always had a love for the traditional beauty of custom hand-printed lettering. Here are a few of Allison's pieces. Check out her website. Beautiful stuff...go Allison!

Love, Sweet Love

2010-01-14T12:37:00.007-06:00

Valentine's Day has always been one of my favorite holidays because I get to go overboard with the goopy love stuff for my kids (no joke...I'm talking heart-shaped pancakes with pink strawberry syrup). I love having a holiday that I don't have to make an excuse for being sappy over. Bring on the pink and red, boxes of dainty chocolates and little "theme-y" gifts. It's also one holiday that I LOVE designing for because I am the girliest of girlie-girls, and Valentine's Day is one day that I don't have to tone it down. I know that the Christmas/Hanukkah holidays are still sort of hanging around (I think I have a holiday hangover), but I'm already lookin' out for some sweet nothings for my sweet somethings. Above are three cute little gifts I've already spied from Rhode Island manufacturer, Decor Craft (top: the very adorable "Blooming Heart", middle: heart shaped magnetic board, bottom: "Flower Pot Pens") along with some Stacy Claire Boyd Children's Petite Valentines and Valentine Photocards.

Paper Cut

2010-01-13T12:05:00.004-06:00

I first became aware of this amazing paper artist when I received an e-mail from a friend that knew I would lose it when I saw the pictures. Peter Callesen is a Denmark born artist who has found beauty in an artists' most overlooked tool...paper. It is hard to believe that these creations are born out of the paper they seem to grow out of. Peter's work is really amazing and beautiful.
Images: petercallesen.com

Custom Kid Kitchens

2010-01-12T14:24:00.002-06:00

My kids are too old for this now, but I LOVE these beautiful little handmade kitches for the little ones that I just saw on ohdeedoh's blog. How adorable. I wish I'd had something this cool when I was a tot! What great parents these kiddos have!

rag & bone

2010-01-11T14:12:00.004-06:00

I've always been interested in handbound books and think that they make such a beautiful and heartfelt gift. I happened upon the rag & bone bindery boutique website the other day and became an instant fan. These talented peeps work out of Pawtucket, RI and have been creating photo albums, journals, guest books, baby books and other custom items since 1991. You can tell by their website that founders Jason Thumpson and Ilira Steinman are sincere in their efforts to create a work of art with every book created. Here are a few of their wonderful designs.

Baby Bites

2010-01-08T14:18:00.002-06:00

I must still have a sweet tooth even after all of the holiday eating because I can not stop thinking about one of my recent obsessions at a local pastry shop here in town. I discovered the Pastry Art Bake Shop a few months ago, and let me tell you...I am in love. They make these amazing little cake bites called "Baby Bites" that come in all different cake flavors. The great thing is that you get an entire cake in one little bite (which is good because who knows how much I'd eat if there was a whole cake)! Red Velvet is my current fave, but they also have Caramel, Chocolate, Turtle, French, Vanilla, Coconut, Carrot and Strawberry. Yum!

Snow Friends

2010-01-07T10:06:00.008-06:00

Well, we're getting geared up for a little snow down here in Alabama which everyone is excited about. Even though the weatherman predicts only around two or so inches, the schools are already closed and I am planning on sitting in the warm house with the kids and watching as the beautiful white flakes fall. My friends up North always giggle at the novelty of snow down in the South...it's all we can talk about if there's even a chance of it because it happens so rarely.

Thinking about all this snow made me remember some photographs from National Geographic photographer Norbert Rosing that I saw a while back which captured a beautiful happening.

Above: A Polar Bear approaches a team of sled dogs outside Churchill, Manitoba.

Above: Mr. Polar bear lays on his back in a submissive play position

Above: Best friends!

Above: the dog bears it's neck in play

Above: Play time!

I found this little write-up about the event on About.com's "Urban Legend" website (which confirmed that, yes...this unbelievable event actually happened this way). Here's what they said about the meeting:

"The location was a kennel outside Churchill, Manitoba owned by dog breeder Brian Ladoon, who kept some 40 Canadian Eskimo sled dogs there when Rosing visited in 1992. A large polar bear showed up one day and took an unexpected interest in one of Ladoon's tethered dogs. The other dogs went crazy as the bear approached, Rosing says, but this one, named Hudson, "calmly stood his ground and began wagging his tail." To Rosing and Ladoon's surprise, the two "put aside their ancestral animus," gently touching noses and apparently trying to make friends. Just then another large polar bear arrived and advanced toward one of Ladoon's other dogs, Barren. The latter rolled on his back, then the pair commenced playing "like two roughhousing kids," Rosing writes, tumbling around in the snow as he snapped pictures of the surreal encounter from the safety of his vehicle. The bear returned for more play sessions every afternoon for 10 days in a row."

What a strange and wonderful world! Hope this makes you smile!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-06T14:23:00.006-06:00

I can't believe we are already nearing the end of the first week of 2010! I plan on spending much time in this new year doing one of the things I love most...shopping! I've already got my eyes on some of Anthropologie's new wares for the kitchen and home. Love these...

Above: Mountain Laurel Dishware, Garnish Cocktail Spoons

Above: assorted Dishtowels

Above: Short Cut Placemat

Above: Vintage Rotary Phone

Tasty Bling

2009-12-30T13:57:00.004-06:00

Did your parents ever tell you that your teeth will rot out from eating too many sweets? If you're not careful with this adorable jewelry from Miam Paris you just might chip one. Don't they just look good enough to eat?

Pinwheels

2009-12-29T14:27:00.005-06:00

I think this craft project from the StyleMePretty blog is just the cutest. They'd be great as decorations or party take-alongs.
Images: Kari Herer and Christina Wnek

Sora Designs

2009-12-28T12:06:00.003-06:00

Over the long holiday weekend I had lots of time to blog/website roam. I fell in love with this wonderful etsy company named Sora Designs ("sora" is Japanese for "sky") owned and run by Wen Chang in San Francisco. Apparently Wen recently traded in her day job as a researcher at a government agency to run her etsy business full time. I can see why...her jewelry designs are so beautiful and unique...they must be getting snatched as soon as she posts them up for sale. Gorgeous stuff!

Happy Holidays!

2009-12-22T14:37:00.007-06:00

Well, I'll be gone for a few days as Stacy Claire Boyd is closing today for Christmas holiday...but I wanted to leave you all with just the cutest little video that a friend sent me the other day. Click here to check it out. I hope you all have a lovely and peaceful Christmas, and I'll see you back here next week!

2009-12-22T14:18:00.006-06:00

I just checked in on Amy Atlas' blog Sweet Designs and was so impressed with a recent dessert table her team put together for a holiday party for "O" Magazine. They used a beautiful and nostalgic color palette of red, lavender and white and had this to say about the her design...

"We created a modern snowflake pattern that we used to tie into the decor through custom vessel liners, popcorn boxes, straw flags, candy wrappers, goody bags, and much more!"

I am just so impressed with the perfection that Amy achieved for this, and how great that it was for Ms. O herself! Go, Amy!

Hotchocspoons from the Chocolate Company

2009-12-18T13:02:00.004-06:00

Lovin' these yummy European hot chocolate-making spoons from the Chocolate Company. Available in over 50 varieties, including ones that include a whiskey or amaretto shot as well as a "G" rated M&M version for the kiddies. You can order them online here. Mmmmmmm....

Repurpose your Sweaters

2009-12-18T12:39:00.003-06:00

Here are some very cute wine bottle wraps that are made from old sweaters. I've also seen these sweater cuffs used to hold decorative candles that are in glass jars. They make such cozy gifts!

Here are the directions from the greylikesweddings blog...

Wine Bottle Gift Wrap:

Materials:

1 old sweater (I scour the thrift stores!)
2″-3″ of Fabric
Sewing Machine, or needle and thread!
Fabric scissors
Ribbon, yarn, gift tags etc… for embellishment

1. Once sweater is washed, start by inserting the wine bottle into the sleeve of the sweater. The sleeve should start just below the top of your wine bottle. Mark the sweater with length of your bottle, pull out the wine and cut the sweater sleeve off.
2. Place your bottle on the small square of fabric and trace a faint circle around the bottle. Give yourself an extra 1/4″-1/2″ outside of the bottle. Cut out this circle.
3. Turn the sleeve inside out and pin your fabric to the cut end of the sleeve. Sew together. Turn right side out and voila!
4. To complete, thread yarn through the sweater, or affix ribbon.

Images: greylikesweddings

Tree Trim Trail Mix

2009-12-18T12:37:00.004-06:00

This looks like a fun holiday snack...a nice mix of salty popcorn and sweet tangy dried cranberries. Yum!

Image: Family Fun magazine (Dec/Jan '10)

Ukelele Boy

2009-12-17T15:13:00.002-06:00

This little boy just cracks me up. I hope that this puts a smile on your face. Have a great day!

These Cookies Make the Cut!

2009-12-16T13:50:00.002-06:00

My friend Jennifer sent me this DIY project and I just love the presentation of these adorable little cookies. The project comes from designer Shana Faust for Hello Lucky. She suggests making your own cookie cutter font by using alluminum siding. I can promise you that I would not have the patience for that...but I do love the idea. I believe that I would purchase nice store-bought alphabet cookie cutters and spell out my cookie message that way and still do the cute packaging that she shows using gum paste to attach the letters to the cardstock. Clever little cookie wishes...what a sweet idea!

The Bow on Top!

2009-12-15T11:28:00.007-06:00

I have had issues with the "generic" gift bow ever since my years of hand-cranking them out on a machine for my father at his jewelry store when I was young. I would have been happy to never see one again until I spied a couple of Kate Spade's newest intros. These "Fiona" slipper shoes ($95) and "Bourgeois Bow" keyring ($50) are so cute and sassy in such bold colors. I love them. What a great way to have fun with such an everyday item, and a great gift for the holidays. I think Kate just helped me get over my bow issue!

Chicken Tortilla Soup

2009-12-14T14:08:00.004-06:00

This is a simple recipe that I received from my friend Dolly King. It's one of those dishes that I make often and don't know what I would do without the recipe. I love the fact that you can throw it in the crock pot and go, too. It's really delicious and my children love it. I've made it countless times using a rotisserie chicken and skipping the crock pot altogether...just making it on the stovetop. It's still good...but it is really much better done in the crock pot. With the cold weather we've been having, it is the perfect feel-good comfort food. Simple & yummy. Enjoy!

Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe

Ingredients:
4 Chicken breast halves
2 15-oz. cans black beans, undrained
1 15-oz. cans Mexican stewed tomatoes, or Rotel tomatoes
1 cup salsa (mild, medium or hot)
4-oz. can chopped green chilies
14 1/2-oz. can tomato sauce
tortilla chips
2 cups grated cheese

Directions:
1 Combine all ingredients except chips and cheese in large slow cooker.
2. Cover. Cook on Low 8 hours.
3. Just before serving, remove chicken breasts and slice into bite-sized pieces. Stir into soup.
4. To serve, put a handful of chips in each individual soup bowl. Ladle soup over chips. Top with cheese.

Furry Friend Fashion

2009-12-11T11:56:00.003-06:00

I just love this book, "Pet Projects: The Animal Knits Bible" by Sally Muir and Joanna Osborne. It includes adorable photos and instructions for making fashionable pet accessories for your furry friends.

Firefly Lane

2009-12-11T11:00:00.003-06:00

Just passing along the name of a good book that I read lately, "Firefly Lane" by Kristin Hannah. You'll love it!

Wall Canvas Art from Amy Butler

2009-12-10T13:47:00.005-06:00

Most of you know that I am SUCH a huge Amy Butler fan, because every time I see something new from her I want to tell the world. Well, I just saw on the decor8 blog that she has now partnered with Artaissance to offer wall canvas art. The designs don't disappoint, and have Amy's trademark look of traditional motifs in quirky and modern color combinations. I love, love, love it all!