Viva

Is it really almost the end of July?  Where has this summer gone?  I can't tell you how I've thoroughly enjoyed it.  The weather has been so beautiful.  Fortunately I've been indulging in some favorite summertime activities--cocktails on the porch, splashing in the pool, drives in the country, concerts, ooh ... and getting caught in thunderstorms.  

Speaking of concerts,  Coldplay was outstanding!  Aside from the heavy petting occurring right next to me, it was almost perfect.  One can't help but fall deeper in love with your best friend, boyfriend, girlfriend, spouse, children.  Chris Martin has this amazing presence, it's hard to take your eyes off him ... the modern-day Pied Piper ... irresistible. Thinking about it now makes me a bit sad it's over.  But seriously, the buzz in the air was contagious.  We were high ... high on Coldplay.  

And speaking of getting caught in thunderstorms, boy did I ever.  Why did I wear my suede moccasin boots yesterday (not to mention a tissue-thin mini dress, but that story deserves a good wine)?  So what's a sensible girl to do, but instinctively take her shoes off and ... run!  If I didn't have those particular boots or that particular dress on, I might have actually slowed to a walk.  I guess that's the fun of surprises and putting it simply ... living.   

Weekly Treats

We should commit to a weekly "treat" for ourselves. I'm not saying go overboard, but what can you do weekly to replenish and rejuvenate? I don't know what others enjoy, but my weaknesses are fresh flowers, candles, and massages. Seriously, at the cost of a latte or two, one can buy gorgeous roses at The Fresh Market. Cut them under lukewarm running water, I would say leaving a four inch stem, and just stack in a short vase. I sometimes use a pretty glass or maybe an old preserve jar. I'm also a big fan of monochromatic, it just adds more of a punch.

And candles are a must! I've been enjoying a line called Linnea's Lights. Speaking frankly, these are simply the best out there. My favorites are their Amber and Cashmere for the bedroom, Lyndan and Sweetgrass for common areas. The sense of smell is often neglected, but I believe associated with most memories. Why not create a sublime olfactory experience with a simple strike of a match?

My greatest indulgence is a two-hour massage. I absolutely love love love them! One cannot underestimate the power of the human touch. I didn't even know certain places needed help until the next day I am feeling 100% better. A local boutique spa is the way to go, better service all around. And I am huge fan of eucalyptus or lavender oil. It just take the experience up ten notches. Oooh, thinking about it now takes me to the most pleasant of memories.

Please don't wait around for birthdays, special occasions, or someone else to do it. One of the best gift to others is to be the best you!

The Color Purple

Where is this gorgeous lounge? 

The decor is sophisticated yet relaxed.  I love how there is simply one dominant color.  Would you call it lilac?  I imagine great conversations with girlfriends and champagne.  

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Chris Everard

Chris Everard is a London-based photographer. He creates such beautiful vignettes inviting you to seek out more of the story. I just love the vibrant cascade of green here, so fresh.

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French Macarons

Oh my ... I really really could eat a few everyday. They are nothing like those yucky coconut ones. Once you have a taste, you'll know what I mean.

Form Follows Function?

So here is something I've been working on ... selecting new furnishings for my home.  I enjoy doing this for others, but find it difficult for myself.  Don't get me wrong, I know what I like, it's not that.  It's the idea of living with something for a while.  Anything with a sense of permanency is hard.  And lets face it, you can't just tuck away a new dining table in the back of the closet very easily.  

Why so arduous you ask?  Firstly, I rarely buy what I don't absolutely want.  Secondly, I am always searching for that "great find."  And thirdly, I don't want regret.  Once I make a decision, I don't like to later realize it was the wrong one.  At times, I don't make a decision at all ... which I guess, in and of itself, is a decision.  And I don't like filler or transient pieces.  I'd much rather live in a bare room with a single amazing chair, versus one filled, to simply be functional.  I want thoughtful selections.  This is all well and good, except when practicality is an issue.   

I realize there's nothing to sweat here, just where I'm at.  So what did I go and do?  Came home with an amazing mirrored brass side table with beautiful patina.  Didn't need it at all, but oh, can't imagine living without it now.

Secret Garden

It's been a while since I've blogged about the ins and outs of my life.  I've been running around so much, it was nice to just take some time off yesterday.  While walking the gardens at the local art museum, I noticed the picnickers.  So many smiles, outbursts of laughter, and some quiet whispers ... where the eyes tell all.  I love that, when there is no need for the exchange of words, merely glances. 

The gardens are quietly beautiful and public, yet feel like my very own secret place to disappear.  I tend to forget exactly which city I'm in, a bonus.  I've been content lately, feeling more settled.  Not itching to run off to another city, except Paris (which looks like might happen this fall).  Or maybe Tuscany, just got an invitation today!

I saw Wolverine the other night, entertaining.  I don't care what those critics say.  I am dying to see the Star Trek movie, I'll watch anything by J. J. Abrams.  Last thing, I am smack in the middle of Breaking Dawn (got me listening to Debussy again) and attempting to stretch out this event.  It has been such a fun read.  So really, not much has been going on, besides dinners with friends, great conversations, long walks ... oh, just heard jingling from the ice cream truck ... how I love this season.