LV's Living

Long time no see.....

2011-05-18T10:55:00.001-04:00

It's been a while I know... a very long while... maybe even a year??!!! Shocking!

Anyways, I thought I'd start back up with a laugh or two - this had me cracking up out loud!!!

Simple

2010-05-18T22:21:00.002-04:00

I've been thinking about the little things in life. How even the smallest thing can have the biggest effect on our lives. A simple decision to do something which you think can't possibly make that much of difference, actually does.
And it changes our lives, for the better, and sometimes the worst, but in the end our lives are made up of these little things. These little decisions, a decision to walk this way home or take the subway, a text or email, a walk into a bar, a walk out of one, all little moments made up at the perfect time for our lives to unfold right in front of us....
The fun in life is really not knowing what tomorrow will bring, but the trick is being open to all of it's possibilities. The tests come with being true to ourselves and those around us, the rewards follow with friendship and love. Peace is found in our souls and our happiness comes from within.

A Paint Brush?

2010-04-10T10:52:00.002-04:00

Well, it's been a little while hasn't it?! Time hasn't exactly been on my side for writing posts!
But! I do have a fairly good excuse! The 'move in' was last weekend, and as stressful as it was, I guess in the grand scheme of things it went pretty well - and thankfully quickly!- or at least the actual move did, the unpacking/settling in is still needing work...
I will of course be sharing photos when the place is at least semi respectable! But until then, just know I'm really loving my new home! ;)
This weekend, along with other things, is going to consist of unpacking the last few boxes, not that I can guarantee homes for all of their contents yet! But I also wanted to keep a promise to myself, and get into my painting again... so I'm going to set up my art space and get dirty with it!! I'm really looking forward to getting back to it, I think it's just what the doctor ordered...

The burning question is, can I fit everything I want and need to do in one glorious weekend? Wishful thinking?!

New and Moo...

2010-03-26T22:50:00.002-04:00

Well, I did indeed pick up my new keys today! And I (of course!!!) checked out my new abode!! It's all freshly painted, looking bright, clean and sparkling!! I'm even MORE excited now! (and who thought that was possible?!!)
So I've been spending a lot of today packing, which will undoubtedly be the main job of this weekend, but I've also been dreaming of all the wonderful things that I'm going to buy and create to have my new home a slice of perfect!
And well, first thing on the list.... can you guess?!! I'll give you a clue... "moo"!!

03/26/10 @ 3:00pm

2010-03-25T23:17:00.001-04:00

Guess what I'm picking up tomorrow afternoon?!
Can anyone say "excited"?!!!!

Kitchen Color Choices...

2010-03-25T23:00:00.002-04:00

Kitchen color? Hmm...
When I viewed my new apartment for the first time (I was in there for about one minute before I said "I want it!") the previous tenants, who were still mid-moving out, had painted the back wall of the kitchen in this gorgeous deep luscious plum purple color.. so I did put a request in to my new super for it to stay when it came to repainting the apartment. However, I'm wondering now if I want to keep it! I LOVE the idea, so I debating whether I should go a smart sophisticated elephant grey or divulge in my most favorite kitchen color; duck egg blue! Oh the decisions!!

By the way, have I told you recently that I CANT WAIT to move in?!!

Movin' Movin' Movin' Rawhide!!!!

2010-03-22T20:13:00.003-04:00

SO!!! I'm seriously so very excited about whats about to happen in my life!!!!!
Finally, after stressful searching and an almost desperate need to get out of where I am living now, I have found myself my own perfect studio apartment in downtown NYC!!!

I CANNOT WAIT TO MOVE IN!!!!

With 12 days until the big day I have got some serious packing to do, but I think I'm really going to enjoy it (yes, I can't believe I just said that either!!) it's going to be some kind of a deep cleansing ritual after two years in my current apartment. Above are a two pics taken (via camera phone - nice and grainy right?!) when I first saw the place and it's still showing the remains of the last tenant.

So this is the beginning of what will be, I'm sure, blow by blow posts of the move in, the first set up, and every little detail and design that follows into making my own set of nyc square feet just the way I want it to be!

Oscar is Famous!

2010-03-22T19:47:00.003-04:00

My Oscar is famous!!!
He made the cut and was posted today on my favorite blog Desire to Inspire in their 'Monday's Pets on Furniture'!! Aww!!! I am so proud!!!!! :D

Simple is...

2010-02-27T21:33:00.003-05:00

The simple things in life... the past few weeks have been a bit tough this end. Really, February hasn't been so nice to me. Still, on the brighter side, with all of these downs and disappointments, something really good must be around the corner and on it's way soon.
So in all this mess, I try to remember the simple things in life. The things I enjoy, those quiet moments where it's just me and the rest of the world. Simple things like walking all the way home from work in the beautifully falling snow, curling up with my cat, appreciating clean water, hot showers, sunshine and a roof over my head...

Architectural & Apartment Insanity!

2010-02-23T22:16:00.006-05:00

I've lived in NYC a few years now, and right now I'm living not too far away from the (gorgeous) above 240 Center Street, which was built as the headquarters of the city's police department and designed by Hoppin & Koen in 1909.
I have often wondered what this building is doing these days, but I've never actually gone out of my way to find out (shame on me!). The building itself is really something quite amazing, born out of the "White City" Beaux Arts inspired notion of a beautiful city.
When the new modernistic red brick headquarters opened in 1973, this white masterpiece fell into a limbo of neglect.. it wasn't until 1988 when the building was converted into coop apartments 55-units designed by Charles Gwathmey.
Considered the premier residence of lower Manhattan based on the building and it's apartments, I was excited to finally get a peak inside (especially after finding out they are apts!) when surfing NYC real estate!
So, without further ado, I share with all of you the wonders enclosed in this magnificent and historical building... for the full real estate listing click here. And don't be shocked at the price!! Oh, and to add more juicy interest, I've add floor plans too!! Check these out again here!

Puppy Power...

2010-02-21T20:15:00.003-05:00

So, I've been having a rough time of it recently, and so on this sunny gorgeous day in nyc I decided to make some time for me. I started it off with a wonderfully long chat with my Mum in England (why is it Mum's are so good at making everything better?!) and sitting on my favorite set of park benches on Spring St in Soho.
I then decided to hit up Starbucks for my regular latte and go have a manicure... next door to the place on Christopher St there's a pet shop, full of little puppies. Now really I wouldn't ever get a puppy from one of these places but I figured I'd take a look and well, who doesn't get cheered up at the sight of puppies anyways?!
And so, right at the end, as cute as a button, a little brown and black speckled Cocker Spaniel looked right at me, and I couldn't help but be caught by his sad puppy face and big brown eyes! I put my hand up to the glass to which he tried to bite right through it!! aww!!
So, I had to have a play with the little fella, so out he came and into a little pen on the floor. I got in too, and there we played around for ages, him jumping up and down, nibbling my fingers and getting a good tummy rub or two! He made me smile and laugh so much I only wished I could take him home and love him forever.... but sadly, I can't...
One thing for sure though, we had some fun and he cheered me up a treat! Thank you lil fella, I hope you get yourself a loving home... x

Perfect Patchwork!

2010-02-21T19:33:00.002-05:00

Patchwork? Love it or hate it?
I love it! BUT it has to be done well!! In a white or neutral room, the bright patchwork taking center stage with nothing to compete with it. Imagine the above bed, as intense as it is, in a room of all white textures, billowing white linens, modern white wood furniture pieces, a light sisal & wool rug (from Merida, I know just the one!), just barely off white corduroy club chairs, white fur cushions, and just to finish it off some bright green table lights... niceeee.
Anyways... here are a few of my fav patchwork peices....oh, the fun is endless with these!!

Want This!

2010-02-20T23:10:00.002-05:00

I love this kitchen.. clean, black & white, classic, but warm & friendly.
A kitchen to live in, love in, laugh in...

Bling in a Ring...

2010-02-16T21:20:00.002-05:00

So I have a little obsession with big rings!!! Here's a few of my favorites via the wonders and talents of Etsy! mm... I'll have that one... and that one... oh, and that cute bag and pretty necklace while I'm at it!!

Pearl Cluster - Rigmarole Mega Mum - lizhutnick

Three Stone - Toosis Rosie Rose - GemDesignsbyBarbara

Bag - Ninu Necklace - GirlsInPearls

Because Orange Twice in One Day is Better...

2010-02-09T23:00:00.004-05:00

To Tuft or not to Tuft? I'll tuft thank you. Especially that stunning orange ottoman above (from cozycozy.com!) I wouldn't say no to that beauty! Also loving that aqua, sea green color of the sofa next to it!! Okay.. so here are some of my absolute favorite tufted masterpieces! Enjoy! (and if you don't like tufting, well... there's always the sweet potato recipe right?!)

Because Orange Is Good...

2010-02-09T22:24:00.002-05:00

Because I had a baked sweet potato for dinner (with butter, black pepper, raisins & sharp cheese!) I couldn't resist this pic (yum)... so I thought I'd post the recipe for it too. And boy, does it look deeeeelish!

Sweet Potato Stacks: Tri-color, garlic, fried sage

Tri-Color Garlic Sweet Potato Stacks

1 Tbsp chopped raw garlic

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

3 large sweet potatoes: one garnet, one jewel, one Japanese (about 2 1/2 lb), washed and sliced into 1/2-inch-thick rounds

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

24 fresh sage leaves

1. Preheat oven 450°F with rack in upper third. Toss garlic with olive oil and mix thoroughly with sweet potatoes in large bowl. Spread in 1 layer in a 15-by 10-inch shallow baking pan.

2. Bake until soft, about 30 minutes.

3. Meanwhile, heat oil in a small heavy skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, then fry sage leaves in 2 batches, stirring, until crisp, 30 seconds to 1 minute per batch. Transfer with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain.

4. To serve, stack sweet potato slices, alternating colors. Place sage leaves on top.

Hot Choc?

2010-02-08T22:45:00.002-05:00

Okay, fine. If I have to be here then I'm going to have one of these warming Chili Hot Chocolates while the snow falls down around me!
This recipe makes for 10 servings, So who would like to join me?!

Chilli Hot Chocolate

Naughty, delicious and with a hint of fire, just what you need after a chilly walk.

Serves: 4
Takes: 10mins

Ingredients

750ml (1¼ pints) skimmed milk
1 cinnamon stick
2 red chillies, halved and deseeded
100g (3½oz) dark chocolate, grated
25g (1oz) demerara sugar

What to do

Place the milk in a saucepan with the cinnamon stick and chillies. Carefully bring to a very gentle simmer for one minute. Take off the heat and leave to one side for 5 minutes so the flavours infuse.
Reheat, then remove the cinnamon, and reserve the chillies on one side for decoration later. Add the chocolate and stir in until it melts, add the sugar and mix.
Serve up in warming mugfuls. If you want to go for total luxury and a real one-off treat then top with a spoon of whipped cream, a dusting of chocolate and decorate with a half chilli – to give your family and friends a hint of what they are in for!

Sunshine vs Snow Storm?

2010-02-08T22:32:00.002-05:00

There's a blizzard coming towards NYC. It's ready to drop inches upon inches of white powdery snow.... I'd like to be in the Bahamas right now... right there in the photo above, dipping my toes in that crystal water, wandering through that soft sand... yes please.
And maybe riding a horse like those below, warm salt sea air brushing past my face as we gallop along the waters edge... don't mind if I do, thank you very much.

Portrait courtesy of Ralph Lauren...

2010-02-07T18:52:00.003-05:00

On the note of Ralph Lauren paint swatches, you must check this out!!!
Self portrait with swatches - I love this! I've been inspired even further!!
Check out Nathan's full Flickr set here!! and his .com here!

Paint Swatch Wall!

2010-02-07T14:34:00.004-05:00

This weekend I decided to get a little creative...so on a chilly Saturday early afternoon I walked into Home Depot on 23rd street and picked up a few Ralph Lauren paint swatches...

I've wanted to do something with the wall behind my bed for a long time. And back then I did start it off by painting the wall that pretty purple/pink color (see the inspiration post about it here!) but since then that's about all that happened to it. I did have one of my paintings hanging there, but really having it over my head while I slept didn't always feel so great...fear of it dropping on me perhaps?!!

So, with an idea I've played with before on canvases, and from some remembered inspiration from Design*Sponge on the below pics, I decided to try out some graphic artwork myself!

I did the top half first, setting all of the colors out on my coffee table, and over a few cups of tea I finally had them in a position I liked. Ill admit, I'm pretty particular about how things look and that they have to feel right to my eyes! And then with a bit of measuring on my wall, and after backing each swatch with mounting tape, I preceded to line up the first row!
I totally enjoyed doing this by the way!! Maybe it was because I was finally getting it up on the wall, or because I loved being so creative (after feeling as though I hadn't been for so long!) or maybe it was because I was blasting out music, singing along, and just thoroughly enjoying the whole time!
Now, the second half, neat little trick I pulled out of my hat! I mirrored the top half!! I was missing one or two identical swatches, and just replaced them with ones as similar as I could get it. The odd mismatch added a twist! I really love how it turned out! If I could change anything I'd make it bigger!! But maybe I can add a line here or there sometime too!

Images from this post on Design*Sponge! The reviews on that post are intense though I warn you!

Where I'd like to have some dreams...

2010-01-31T21:18:00.003-05:00

I completely adore this bed. But with mountains of fluffy white sheets. And in my bedroom.
I want it.... right. now. I don't know what else there is to say!

Fresh and So Clean, Clean...

2010-01-03T18:27:00.003-05:00

I just found these three photos on brent.darby's photostream on flickr and I instantly loved them. Cool minty frostiness... love the lipstick artwork. And the Union Jack doormat!

Happy New Year and East Hampton...

2010-01-03T17:40:00.004-05:00

Happy New Year to all!
Now even though NYC is facing sub-zero temperatures, the enjoyable Christmas season is over, the snow keeps coming down, and the first 2010 work week hits hard tomorrow morning, I've decided to do some real estate hunting. East Hamptons stylie...
So onto warm sunny days, where lounging by the pool is a 'must have'... doesn't sound bad now does it?!
Soo... here's a little beauty I wouldn't mind purchasing (if only my purse would stretch so far).
I love the lake, AND pool.. and I adore the cool white interior, the rustic worn woods, the gorgeous vaulted ceilings, the big windows with light flooding in, and the feeling of cool warmth this little abode exudes..
For the full posting....here!

Updates and Twinkle Lights!

2009-12-05T10:40:00.003-05:00

Dear Bloggers, Readers, and Blog World,

I offer my apologies! I have been gone far too long, and although I think I have a pretty good excuse, I have missed you so much!!
I had shamefully forgotten how much I loved posting here and sharing with all of you - return readers and new ones - all of the things that I love and get up to!

So, to recap on the past few months, and just briefly to spare you all the long drawn out story time!
My Sister moved to NYC, and has been staying with me until she gets on her own feet here, and I am happy to report she has done good job of it to! And right before Christmas - I think she got her Christmas wish! ;)
I got a new job!! Which, I have now been in since September, and I absolutely adore!!! I feel I am very lucky indeed that in this economy I was able to move from one company, right into another, and with more money! So, from an Architecture firm to a high end Interior Design firm as a project manager.. and I couldn't be happier!!
Home is pretty much the same. Same lovely apartment, with my fat boy slim cat, Oscar! He has gained a few more toys since August mind you! Thanksgiving was spend with my Sister at the Macy's Parade - I've been here over three years and that was the first time I'd seen it! And the holidays, of course, also came with the traditional trip to Las Vegas with my Dad!!!
On the romantic side of my life, my boyfriend and I broke up, I believe I had mentioned him on here before. Still, when it's not working, it's just not working.
And now we are all rolling on into Christmas!!! Which my the way - I LOVE!!!
Last night, while my roomie, and my sister was out, I had a glass of wine, sang Christmas songs and put up my own set of gorgeous twinkle lights around the breakfast bar! I hung my pretty glass ornaments from them too, and I must say, they look pretty special!! I went for the white wire twinkle lights of course - they are soo much nicer when a tree isn't involved!!
Talking of which, the tree was out of bounds due to my fat boy slim! Who I believe would have had way too much fun trying to eat the thing! This way is much more cat friendly, and still so beautifully Christmasy!!!! Oh!! It's so exciting!!

And so, to finish off my long update of goings on! I've posted below some pretty images of twinkly lights... because they're not just for Christmas, and yes, I'm trying to convince myself I can keep mine up all year round!! I love them around the bed - so beautifully pretty and rustic!!

Hot Down, Summer In The City....

2009-08-18T14:27:00.003-04:00

NYC has been pretty sweltering recently, and with this weeks real feel temperatures hitting 100 degrees, I'm thanking the heavens for A/C's, iced coffee's and sunglasses!

Of course, hot august nyc days always make me think of this beloved classic... ohhh yeaaa!!!!! ;)

hours and hours...

2009-08-17T15:40:00.002-04:00

Its four o'clock.... I wish I could go home and have a nook like this one to curl up in! An oversized armchair, a cool breeze and a beautiful view from the window, my trusty laptop, a good old book and a cuppa tea.... I would be content here for hours and hours and hours and hours.....

Dark and Delicious

2009-08-17T15:35:00.001-04:00

Talking of gorgeously delicious dark walls.... I love this living room!

Via Skona Hem

Real Estate - Connecticut!

2009-08-17T15:05:00.004-04:00

a view in connecticut

Over the Past weekend, my Boyfriend and I escaped from this steaming city into the lush green hills and beautiful forests of Connecticut and upstate NY.
I love the rides we take together, and love going to all of these new places, seeing so many beautiful things, enjoying simple pleasures, and just relaxing.
On riding through Connecticut, somewhere I've never been before, I was in delight of the gorgeous landscapes, the green forests, and - of course - in checking out all of the houses!!!

So, without fail, I am yet again found wandering through real estate!!
And here's a little beauty for you!
Located in New Canaan, this single family, 3 bed, 2 1/2 bath, 7 room house is just heavenly! Built in 1841, this 2,675 sq ft house on 16.8 acres has a charm I'm just loving. Its contemporary farmhouse done well, and I'm in love with it's grey exterior, dark floors, wall colors, the bookshelf, the white beams, and just the entire warm feeling of this living room.
Upstairs the bedroom is cool and neutral, while I think I might invest in updating the bathroom just a bit, as well as window treatments in all the rooms. I wish I could see the kitchen though!! And if the other rooms of the house are as beautiful as the living room I can only imagine how much more I would love this property!
For the full listing, click here!!!

beautiful brick!

2009-08-17T14:24:00.003-04:00

I love exposed brick.. it's just gorgeous. And who needs a headboard when you have brickwork like the above pic?!
I especially like it when it's white. So fresh, so textured, so lovely....
Also - check out the grey wall (I love grey!) or the amazing huge flower/plant mural on white brick for a different twist!

Cowhide...

2009-07-16T14:28:00.003-04:00

Some of you might hate me for saying this, but I love cowhide. Usually on my floor, but after seeing this gorgeously pale and subtle cowhide upholstered on this bed, I fell in love. Of course, with something like this, the room absolutely HAS to be carefully designed, or it'll just come off cheap and nasty.... in this room, I like the bedside table and the floor lights. I've hesitant about the floor, ceiling light and the window treatments... and definitely the bedspread!

If this were my room, I'd go gorgeously simple with Benjamin Moore's Dove White on the walls (and ceiling - flat finish), keep the bedside table and lamps, recessed lights in the ceiling, a rectangle white/off white rug (maybe something super textured), dark wood floors of course! and white white white bedding...forget that cushion too. Maybe replace it with kiwi green silk (I'm thinking Pollack fabrics) bolster cushions instead. I'd also place an old and weathered antique brown leather reading chair in the corner of the room too.

Okay enough of the daydreaming!! To check out this Palomino Bed, chick here for the link on the Design Lush Website.

Cool Classic White Living... Real Estate!

2009-06-30T21:24:00.006-04:00

I know, I have been completely awful in updating my blog for too many weeks now... But! I do have a reaaally good excuse... i just can't tell you what it is yet... sorry :( But I will when I can!!! ;)

Okay... soo! Of course, real estate... I've been keeping this beauty to show you for a while now too! (seeee... I have been thinking about posting!!)

This absolute beauty is on the Upper West Side in NYC, right on Central Park. This building landed twice in the top ten best co-ops in the city!

This 2,000 sq.ft. pre-war co-op apartment with four bedrooms and three bathrooms, also boasts 66 foot landscaped (and oh so gorgeous) sun filled terrace which stretches the entire length of the apartment just flooding in sunlight.

This apartment is completely renovated, and really nicely done too! I am loving the white white white, it accentuates the architectural features just beautifully!!

And the interior design nerd in me can spot and name all the plumbing fixtures, recognize the furniture and appliances!! Haha! ;)

Now, how much would I love to be relaxing on that terrace right now, gazing over Central Park? Yesss pleaassee..... just need to find that cool $4 million... ahem....

New York Real Estate!

2009-06-08T23:21:00.008-04:00

It seems I'm on a real estate hunt these days! And also on that note, I realized I have done very little hunting in this city! So off I went to find a little nook of NY that I wouldn't mind calling my own!

Of course then (like I always do) I imagine how I would redecorate it! This time, I searched my seemingly millions of images for what I thought would be just the right fit for this property... which was wayyy too much fun!!!

And so, above is the apartment, located in Greenwich Village on Jane street (a gorgeous tree lined street!) between West 4th and Hudson St. I love the WOOD BURNING fireplace! The wood floors, the layout and the gorgeous little kitchen oozing potential! This one bedroom apartment has a ton of exposed brickwork, 10 foot ceilings, as well as a southern exposure (so there will be sunlight coming in all throughout the day!). For the full listing, click here!

I would of course, keep all the features I love, but brighten it up with whites, light creams, earth tones, and add splashes of deep blues and grey tones! The kitchen, although recently renovated, I would brighten from top to bottom with cool blue paint on the cabinets, open shelving, but treasure the already existing farmhouse sink!

The bedroom need a redecoration overhaul with a dose a character, and the navy blue striped headboard below does the trick perfectly. By making it a plush, clean and cosy room, without making it feel small, it's miles better then the odd and cold layout it currently has.

Although I don't know what the current bathroom looks like, I'm thinking a navy accent wall, vintage tiles, crisp and sparkling in this small space with what unfortunately looks like no window...

In the living room, I want the walls and fireplace to hold their own, and not be cluttered by too many patterns which could end up making the space look small and messy. Instead textures and neutral tones will lead the way! A deep cosy white sofa, a leather armchair, a textured rug, baskets, cushions and repainting the fireplace mantle white should do the trick perfectly!

All pulled together to turn into a gorgeous NYC sanctuary, to relax, to enjoy, it's fresh and inviting...

Gorgeous New Jersey House!!

2009-06-07T22:39:00.006-04:00

I've been spending a lot of time in New Jersey recently, and I've come to really like it! I've seen rolling green hills, wildlife (including one giant bear eating garbage! Which was spotted while I saw safely -and thankfully!- inside!) and some absolutely gorgeous houses! Most of which include porches! And oh how I love porches!!

So, as I do, I search real estate!!!

And I came across this total beauty!!

Built in 1735 this four bed, one bath house sits comfortably on 6 acres. With a large red barn and a property overflowing with apple and cherry trees, this house is just adorable....

There are four large fireplaces including one in the master bedroom. And although it only has one bathroom, there is a storage room which could easily be made into the second. I love the old floors, the old stone and the old wood beams, and with some changes here and there including a lick of paint, this house could be a dream come true!

And yes - that little porch is screaming "place swinging bench here"!!!

For the full listing - click here!

I Want To Live Here!

2009-06-04T21:48:00.008-04:00

Please excuse me, I just fell in LOVE!!!!

Following from my last post about North Carolina, I went real estate huntin'! However, I was drawn to Virginia yet again! And then stumbled across this absolute gem, which is in Charlottesville, and instantly fell in love with it!

There are a few things that I must, must have in my dream home, and don't worry, I don't expect the house to come with all of them! But the house that does catch my heart, will eventually have all of those dreams encapsulated within it too! (as well as a few dreams!!) And this house, has a lot of them already!

I mean, just look at that garden in the photos above!!! It's just screaming 'English Rose Garden'!! And that porch too! Omg... heaven on a rocking chair or porch swing just waiting to happen!!

Now of course, with anything, it needs your own touch to make it yours, which I would enjoy anyways! For example, I'd change up the kitchen... although it's got a cute country kitchen vibe, I crave open shelves and a farmhouse sink. And I think the appliances need a change (I wonder if the space is big enough for my dream aga?!). Anyone who knows me, would know the walls would be duck egg blue within a week of living there! And I'd have a stunning solid wood countertop, clean white back splash tiles.... mm!! I think perhaps next I should do an inspiration post for my dream kitchen!!

This house is a 1,796 sq. ft., three bed, 2.5 bath, single family home built in 1925. The character of this house really caught my eye, and spurred on my love for it, I just don't think it's something you can get in newer houses and true character isn't something you just purchase from a store. Every home needs to start with the right foundations...

I just love the wood beams of the house showing in the living room and stairs, and I adore the exposed joint in the photo below... oozing coziness and warmth! (I would change the fireplace mantle to a big white one, with tile inside... maybe....vintage tile? hmm...) I wouldn't want to mix my woods, and loving the beams as I do, they would have priority!

Another one of my 'must haves' is a roll top bath!! And guess what! In the photo below there is one! I have a sneaking suspicion that the plumbing fixtures would need an overhaul, and I'm curious of the actual size of this bathroom too!!

I love love love the sunroom below, with it's window seat.. a perfect little office/painting/reading spot!! Or just somewhere I could sit with a cuppa tea after a long day! If it rains, I'd watch those drops gather and roll down the window panes...

And with big bright bedrooms, including that attic room, I don't think I could say no to this house if I tried!!

The full listing with all details is here!

Outer Banks, North Carolina

2009-06-04T00:40:00.007-04:00

The Outer Banks, North Carolina.... Where we got to spend a gorgeous four days over Memorial Day weekend relaxing on the beach, exploring the area, having fun, and where I got to do a few 'firsts' in my life!!

Which included.... eating pulled pork - real NC style, which when done well is soo good!! eating a dolphin sandwich (although tasty, I wonder if this negated all of the dolphin friendly tuna I've always insisted on buying?), and riding on a Wave runner!! but more of that later!! I also got to see Delaware, Maryland and (the East side) of Virginia on the drive down there! (oh, and NC too!)

I think one of my favorite parts of the trip were the sunset walks on the beach, it was quiet, beautiful, peaceful, and romantic... I loved taking the short walk to the beach, watching the sky turn pink, and feeling the waves curl around my feet.... I picked up so many shells too!!

The above two photos are from one of those sunsets.. just ... beautiful.

There was one scary moment on the first day, while out in the waves, it seemed the sea wanted to teach me a lesson... Lets just say, there was a strong rip tide, and I was very thankfully saved from what potentially could have been rather tragic...

And so, I was happy to see the sun set on another day, where footsteps in the sand could be made..

Above is the short walk we took to the beach, it was soo nice to be as close as we were! And with my milky white skin (yes, I like it that way!!) I slathered on 50 strong sunblock to stop myself turning into a painful lobster colored woman!!!

Wave runners!!! I had sooo much fun on these!!!! We rocked these out on the second day we were in NC, and they were a blast!!! Zooming around at top speed, doing donuts, swishing back and forth and going all out with them!! Loved it!!! And one of the guys on guard said I was good at 'sliding'! Although I'm not so sure what that means, I think from the info I did get, it means making a tight turn smoothly!! (correct me if I'm wrong here!!)

And ohh the houses.... all on stilts to protect them from high seas during hurricanes... some were HUGE! Others, not so much... I did like the aqua blue one in the pic on the left, and one thing I really wanted to see, was the famous house in Rodanthe from the movie (based on the Nicholas Sparks book) 'Nights in Rodanthe' with Richard Gere and Diane Lane. I love that house, all dark wood with those bright blue shutters!!!

And just like all holidays, they must come to an end... I was sad to see the end of this one, it's for sure. But it was gorgeous, and peaceful, and beautiful, and so relaxing... I loved it.

If I could, I'd go back in a flash!!

England Round Trip!

2009-06-03T23:25:00.004-04:00

arriving.. the rolling hills of England! coming home.. the deep green of upstate NY!

I have no good excuses... I have neglected my blog terribly!!! And so, it's time to make up for um, lost time!

I have been a busy bee, jumping here, there, and everywhere for the past month! But all of that later! As promised, I shall start off with my trip to England!

It was a great week (although a week wasn't really long enough!!) and although I was exhausted from running up and down England (and in need of another holiday to relax from the holiday!!) it was worth it!!

So a few quick pics.. first off, my Family, from left to right, my Mum's Brother and my Uncle David, My Mum, my Sister Kathryn and my Brother Daniel. I'm actually standing in my Uncles boat (which was obviously on land at the moment for maintenance!). On the way back to my Mum's house, we stopped for a classic Cream Tea... scones, jam and clotted cream, and of course, Tea!! My mission while in England was to eat everything completely and classically British! And I did pretty well too! Fish and Chips, Toad in the Hole, Proper Breakfast Fry-up!!

I also went up to see my good friend Sarah, in Shropshire, who has just been spending the last two years renovating her house! Finally, it is near completion! And it was a delight for me to see it after hearing so much about it!! I did fall in love with her bathroom, which has turned out beautifully - I wish I had the before pictures to show you!! Just think avocado green.. ew!!!

In this huge room, she created a huge shower, and a deep and welcoming tub, with Grohe fixtures. But best of all, I loved the way she used her slate tiles!! (which needed a whole sealing process also). The artist in her came shining through to create an original and striking design which, I think, makes the bathroom so special. One of the best things was, is that with this design, there was hardly any wastage of tile at all! Every sliver of slate was used!! I'm in love with this! Definitely one to keep in the inspiration folder! I can't wait to see the bathroom, and house completely finished and accessorized!!

For Wicked Humor Only...

2009-05-14T12:03:00.002-04:00

Because this appeals to my wicked sense of humor, I had to share!

Happy Thursday... yup, it's almost Friday... phew!

England!!!

2009-05-11T22:07:00.005-04:00

I meant to say goodbye before I left for my holiday, but one thing happened after another and before I knew it, I was on a plane zooming off to another time zone!!

So!! Yesterday I came back from a 9 day trip to the wonderful England!! The last time I was back on the homeland was in 2007 and for unfortunately only 4 days! So this trip was particularly special, and a wonderful opportunity to really get over there and spend some quality time with friends and family!

I really did love my time there and made the most of every moment too, to the point of being completely exhausted by the time I got back to NY that I was knocked out cold last night and slept like a log, not a thing could of woken me up!!

I will be posting some of my favorite photos of my travels up and down England, the friends I'd seen, the places I went with the family, and of course, those gorgeous and most beautiful rolling hills of England... oh, how I love those hills...

But for now I'm posting my favorite interiors, furniture and accessories which all give a shout out to the beloved Union Jack! (including a few you might recognize as being designed by Vivienne Westwood!)

Some Like It Hot...

2009-04-28T17:23:00.002-04:00

It's a hot hot NYC today, kicking out a summer like 90 degrees.. and I can't say I'm quite ready for this kind of weather yet! (what happened to spring?! I swear, in ny that happens for only one week!)
Well, while the fan whirs near me, and I drink about 20 glasses of water, I dream of cold and delicious ice cream... because what else does a girl crave on a day like today?!

I hope you're all keeping cool, and enjoying the weather wherever you are!!

A Simple Sheet Of Paper...

2009-04-28T14:37:00.003-04:00

When first saw Peter Callesen's work on Marte & Louise's Blog, I was instantly drawn to it. His work is of cut paper, revealing a depth to a simple sheet we don't usually see. I love his precision, the delicacy of his work, and his humor in the pieces.
Here are a few of my favorite works, but there are a lot more beautiful ones to discover too, so please check out his website!!

Framed A4 Papercut, Clockwise from the above left, 'Holding Onto Myself' 2006, 'Cowboy' 2006, 'The Core Of Everything' 2006, 'The Lost Sheep' 2006.

"I find the A4 sheet of paper interesting to work with, because it is probably the most common and consumed media and format for carrying information today, and in that sense it is something very loaded. This means that we rarely notice the actual materiality of the A4 paper. By removing all the information and starting from scratch using the blank white 80gsm A4 paper as a base for my creations, I feel that I have found a material which we all are able to relate to, and at the same time is non-loaded and neutral and therefore easier to fill with different meanings. The thin white paper also gives the paper sculptures a fragility which underlines the tragic and romantic theme of the works."

"The paper cut sculptures explore the probable and magical transformation of the flat sheet of paper into figures that expand into the space surrounding them. The negative and absent 2 dimensional space left by the cut, points out the contrast to the 3 dimensional reality it creates, even though the figures still stick to their origin without the possibility of escaping. In that sense there is also an aspect of something tragic in many of the cuts."

Quotes from Peter Callesen.

A4 Papercut, Above; 'Wedding Dress Without Bride' 2005. Below, right; 'Distant Wish' 2006, left; 'Hunting' 2005.

Bright is Better!

2009-04-26T21:42:00.005-04:00

This weekend in NYC was perhaps the first really hot one of the year, and my gosh was gorgeous! Today, finally, I was able to pull out all of my beautiful, floating, feminine, bright and patterned summer dresses!!! I adore wearing them, so bold and beautiful, the bright patterns and colors are so much fun for me to wear... ohh, roll on summer!

So I thought I'd pull together some pics of some dresses I wouldn't mind adding to my collection! Starting clockwise from the top left.... though I can't remember where this first one came from!! So next, Just Cavalli, Zenboho.com, and last but not least, a most beautiful dress from Matthew Williamson's 2009 Summer line for H&M! Paired with a few of my Jimmy Choo kitten heel sandals, I'm all set! Now it's just time to get some organic sunblock!!

Happy Birthday Blog!

2009-04-24T12:09:00.003-04:00

Silly me... I forgot my own blog birthday!!!!! April 10th 2008, at 10:55pm was my first post, and my blog has come a long way since then!!
I'd like to thank everyone for commenting, emailing, and visiting my site! I've loved making this blog, and I hope you've all enjoyed checking it out too! Here's hoping the next year will bring as many improvements, exciting posts and lots more fun in sharing it all with you!

Thank you!!

When Zeppelin Lights Up My Day...

2009-04-23T19:47:00.005-04:00

I have posted about Marcel Wanders before (here!), and I do like what he does... One of my favorites is his Zeppelin chandelier, a classic structure made of steel, and then cocooned in a spray on resin which is protected by transparent finish. Not only does it provide diffused light, but there is a faceted crystal globe underneath and in the middle of the fixture, just to add that sparkle effect!

And yes, it does look like a spider had a field day with it... but that's what I kinda like about it too. Though perhaps not as much as the girl above...

It's clean, sharp, a little creepy, a lot rock and roll and well, when I see it, I have to of course listen to Led Zeppelin.. Ha! And I do looove Led Zeppelin...

Follow are two of my many favorite songs, unfortunately YouTube came up a little short on really good recordings, so these will have to do... I'm pretty sure I'll be listening to Robert Plant rock on for the rest of the night now anyways!

This first one, 'Your Time Is Gunna Come', is a bit more rock than the second and it suits the light fixture a little better, but I love 'Tangerine' so much and I think its such a beautiful song, that I had to share it too!

'Your Time Is Gunna Come' Led Zeppelin

'Tangerine' Led Zeppelin

Rain With A Side Of Cheese...

2009-04-20T22:59:00.007-04:00

New York City in the rain

A thunderstorm is rolling it's way across New York City (NY doesn't even do April Showers by halves!) And so what's a girl to do on such a soggy Monday evening? Well...

I think I few key things are needed here...

1) tea, of course (I'm British after all).

2) a comfy fluffed sofa with cushions, blankets and other such cosy accessories.

3) pj's, because every girl wears a pair of pj's on an evening like today.

Images from House to Home and Domino Magazine (so sad you're gone Domino!)

And finally,

4) large amounts of cheese in the form of that 1986 classic 'Top Gun'... yup my dears, think fighter pilots and classic one liners that you just love to hate and make you laugh! I haven't 'lost that lovin' feeling' for this one!!! (even though I don't like Tom Cruise at all!! ha!)

Cheese, wonderful cheese!

Ah, Maverick and Goose! Here's one quote I just had to share!!... A plate of cheese coming right up! Love it!! haha!!

Maverick: Jesus Christ, and you think I'm reckless? When I fly, I'll have you know that my crew and my plane come first.

Charlie: Well, I am going to finish my sentence, Lieutenant. My review of your flight performance was right on.

Maverick: Is that right?
Charlie: That is right, but I held something back. I see some real genius in your flying, Maverick, but I can't say that in there. I was afraid that everyone in the tax trailer would see right through me, and I just don't want anyone to know that I've fallen for you.

Bear Mountain!!

2009-04-19T15:46:00.011-04:00

Yesterday was amazing!! The weather was amazing and warm, and what else do you do on such day but get out of the city?!!

So!! Hoping on the back of an orange motorcycle, a wonderful man and I sped upstate to check out Bear Mountain! It was a perfect trip, and it was so so gorgeous out there, I can only imagine how stunning it will look when the trees are all green with summer in full swing!

I was in awe of Bear Mountain, and my eyes and soul were in relief in seeing so much open land spread out before me, the fresh air was wonderful, the sunshine a delight! (even if I did get a little sunburnt!!!)

So here are a few of my favorite photos....... Above - looking over a beautiful glistening lake, the curly tree near Bear Mountain Tower.

Below, left to right, first row - A pretty pink tree in early bloom at Bear Mountain Tower, From the top of Bear Mountain Tower - such a beautiful view!

Second row, the view from a stop point on the road, From the top of Bear Mountain Tower looking down.

Third row, another view of glistening water from a stop point on the road, On the road- taken from the bike riding down the mountain on our way home.

It's been such a wonderful weekend I wish it wasn't almost over!

If I Were To Cook A Feast...

2009-04-13T20:58:00.007-04:00

When I lived back in England my roommates and I would have dinner parties, sometimes they were a little extravagant, other times they were simple - like a stunning Sunday Roast! I loved the cooking, and when everyone joins in and does their bit to help, the build up and preparation to the dinner was sometimes the best part of the evening!

I do miss those times! Maybe it's time to organize some more of those dinner parties!!

Well, I'm certainly not short of inspiration for setting the table these days!! So I've pulled together my favorites, and I'll admit to saving a couple of these for quite a long time, just waiting to share them!!

Above must be my two most favorite! Both of which are from Skona Hem, I adore the chandeliers, the mixed textures, the mis-matched chairs, the soft and rustic with touches of glam... I just love, love, love these two photos!!!!

Below are a few more great and beautiful table settings, the below left is so dreamy in all white, with lace, silver and antique wood chairs, it's totally feminine and great for when a few generations of women come around for tea and biscuits!

Below right, is one of the prettiest outdoor dinner tables I've seen, simple, elegant, not too fussy. I adore those iron chairs! (unfortunately I don't know where these two images are from! Let me know if you do!)

These next two are a little more contemporary, but they definitely aren't lacking in style!! They are both from Skona Hem, and are much more suited to mixed parties, so bring on the couples! The one on the left oozes cool white chic, with a fresh spring charm, it's hard to resist. There is something so perfect in mixing sharp crispy whites and warm woods - a look which will never go out of style!

The table setting on the right with the chrome, silver and the deep moody wall color and place mats has sense of masculinity and is lightened and softened perfectly by the plants and green accents.

Although I don't remember where I picked up the below left photo, I just love how the rugs are seemingly layered over each other haphazardly. The powerful patterns work perfectly, and the simple wood table and white chairs, dishes and accessories add a simplicity which just makes the rugs more striking and gorgeous. This is a simple table, relaxed and so subtly classy, it would be perfect for serving the tastiest Sunday Roast, where the food does the talking!

Below right is another gorgeous outdoor table setting (from Skona Hem), this oozes hot summer dining, where casual is everything.. and as the sun sets, I'd imagine this dinner rolling into the evening with dozens of candles and beautiful twinkly lights - oh I love candles and twinkly lights outdoors!!

Last but not least, these two super sharp dining tables are overdosing in wood - but they do it so well, and so effortlessly, I'm just loving them. On the left, from Living Etc., dark woods, solid black chairs, sharp chrome lighting, and the texture and colors of a cowhide rug creates the perfect mix to balance this luxurious room.

On the right, from Taverne Agency, simplicity is key. Mixing woods, old and new, with the delicacy of the chandeliers and lots of flowing sunlight, this is a table ready for any occasion, great or small. And I'm ready to start cooking up a feast!!!

Happy Easter!!

2009-04-12T21:12:00.003-04:00

Happy Easter!! I hope you're all enjoying a wonderful Easter weekend! Now, time to eat that chocolatey delicious Cadbury's Creme Egg I've been keeping in my handbag all day!! Haha!!

Perfect Patchwork...

2009-04-07T22:46:00.003-04:00

Tonight I checked out Living Etc. and their photo gallery - where I found a TON of new amazing inspiration!!! I am loving so many, and all at once!!

And so, for a touch of something cheerful, check out the above two bright and colorful photos straight from the gallery! I am in LOVE with the green patchwork chair on the left - deep, deep love!!!

Mirror, Mirror, On The Wall...

2009-04-07T20:50:00.003-04:00

I was just cruising Taverne Agency (as one does) and came across the above left bathroom from stylist Anne Draijer's house - I immediately fell in love with the mirror!! I've seen them pink before - but not looking this great!

So I searched my collections, and picked out my favorite 'new antique' mirrors to share with you, each interior has a different feel, and therefore adds a little something different to the same kind of mirror.. I just love all of these photos!

Clockwise from Top Left, Taverne Agency, Shootfactory, House to Home, Living Etc.

Amanda Prior...

2009-04-01T22:23:00.004-04:00

I have to do a little shout out!! Been checking out Amanda Prior's Photography, and I just had to share!! I adore the iron balcony above (I would loovvvee to have one of these!!) and I'm dreaming of having that most perfect green kitchen below - totally fresh and bright, this is the only way I could have a kitchen so small!!! And well, who doesn't love chalkboard paint??!!

Polaroid Humor...

2009-04-01T21:40:00.004-04:00

I think I've found one of the best Flickr sites ever! Esoule knows her way around a polaroid camera, and I just love what she does! Her sense of humor is right up my street!! There's too many to post them all, but here are my favorites from her 'Little Zoo' set!! I'm loving the fish and the bear one above, and the ostridge below with it's head in the hole in the wall, I think these are my top 3!!

Do check out her 'Letting the Horses Loose' set - those are just great too!

Here are Esoule's Flickr Site, Etsy Site, and Website!!!

My New Painting!!!!

2009-04-01T20:44:00.003-04:00

Well I've been promising a new piece of my artwork for so long now... and here it is!!

Life's been so busy recently, but it feels so very good to complete one - and one I like so much!! It turned out better than I expected!!

Time to get cracking on ideas for the next one!!

Oh- and no name yet, I'll have one soon though, and I'll keep it on the sidebar to the right along with my other paintings! This one is Acrylic paint on a 8"x10" and 1 1/2" thick stretched canvas.

Daylight Desk Pics!

2009-03-30T20:38:00.006-04:00

As promised, photos of my new desk in daylight!! Ohh, I'm so in love with it! Believe it or not, I've been longing all day to sit at it!! And here I am! Time to get some painting done! The desk has actually inspired me!!!

DREAM FIND!!!!

2009-03-29T21:51:00.006-04:00

I am amazed at what people throw out in New York City!!!

This afternoon, walking down the street, and on turning the corner I stopped gasped out loud! I saw this beautiful desk just sitting there on the curb with the trash!!! It's just beautiful, and just the desk I had been dreaming of!!! There wasn't even a split second where I even considered leaving it!!

And so, the wonderful man with me (thank you!! ;) ) picked it up for me, and we dragged it to his apartment, where later on he popped it into a cab and I took it off to my apartment! I'm so happy with it!!!

In the above left photo it's pre clean, and as soon as I walked it in the door!! The desk has some varnish or something which was spilt over it the top of it (see the above right photo), and down the front too, which did make the top drawer stick (but that was fixed with a bit of clever man power!!). The spilt varnish has chipped off in places, and with encouragement, patience and a lil' elbow grease, I hope it should all come off without too much trouble! The only problem area I think will be the black top... I'll delicately do my best with it, but I think this will eventually just have to add a little character to the desk!!!

I will be taking daylight photos soon too so you can see it better, but well, I couldn't wait to share the best find ever!! Below are the photo's of it a bit more settled into my room!

I really am amazed what people throw out in the trash though!! What's that phrase? 'One man's trash is another man's treasure' ? Oh so true!!!! I LOVE my new desk!!!!!

Sweet, Sweet Love...

2009-03-28T16:45:00.006-04:00

I. Am. In. Loveee.

I was cruising blog Decor8 yesterday, and as soon as my eyes were caught, so was my heart..

The post (here!) was featuring Knack Studios, based in South Carolina.

Secretly, I've got a dream of owning my own shop where I give flea market finds and old furniture and home stuffs a fantastic new life... and so you will see why I'm so deeply in love with Knack Studios!! I am totally in heartfelt longing for the cream dresser in the above left photo! And I'm a total sucker for mismatched old plates too (below)!! Hey... I love it all, what can I say!?!

"Knack Studios was born of a passion for discovering home products that reflect a distinctly urban professional lifestyle. With and eye for detail and a talent for repurposing found objects, Knack offers an eclectic selection of furnishings that are sleek yet warm, detailed but relaxed. Clever design. Easy Style. Uncommon Expression." From the Knack Studios Website.

Also Knack studios has a Blog and a fantastic Flickr set! Check them out!!

Oh, To Be Grey...

2009-03-23T21:25:00.005-04:00

So I've been seeing a lot of grey around recently, and I feel it only my duty to participate! Some might think it strange, but I've liked grey for quite a long time! I do love how it can flip flop from being cool to warm, and masculine to feminine, either by it's tones or just by the right accessories...

Most of all, I love grey with earthy warm tones, natural woods and stone, and with metallics, creams and bright whites, it's just beautiful! The mix of textures in the accompanying pictures is what I love the most!

So here are a few of my favorite grey interiors and still life photographs. Clockwise from the top left, Living Etc, (sorry, I don't know this one!), Skona Hem, Shootfactory, House to Home, and Glen Proebstel.

Happiness Is...

2009-03-22T23:33:00.001-04:00

Happiness is... a long drive out into New Jersey on a warm early spring Saturday afternoon... ;)

Update - Empire State Building!!

2009-03-22T16:57:00.002-04:00

Ah, at the top of the Empire State Building!

It was my very good friend Kara's Birthday a few days ago, and she'd never been to the top of the Empire State Building, so at her request, we shot up there to finally tick off one of those NYC things most tourists hold high on their lists of things to do! As locals, it was quite fun to 'act the tourist' for a few hours!!

The last time I was up there, I was about 13 years old and with my Sister, Brother and Dad on a trip to the city. I remember being up there and calling my Mum in England from a cell phone you could purchase for a few minutes to make a call anywhere you wanted - and in those days, cell phones were no where near as prevalent as they are today!! It was like a huge novelty item back then!!

So returning once again, put a touch of perspective on my life, and made me think back to all thats happened in the last 'few'(!) years!!! Back then, I never had a clue I would be living in this city now, or how far I've come... sometimes life plays those funny tricks on you!

We had a great time, and of course, as one could imagine the city looked somewhat beautiful from so high, all sparkly lights and the rows of streets and avenues that stretch out below you.

And as a local, there are of course parts of the city one tends to avoid, one of those for me is Times Square. I hate it! Too much tourist bustle, flashy lights and not enough NYC for what it really is (sorry tourists!! - I'm sure you think the same of me when in your towns and cities!!).

At any rate - from the top of the Empire State Building, Times Square looks better than one could hope.. and even possibly quite pretty with it's glowing lights rising in between the buildings! Check out the above left pic!

Above right, and below right, are some pics of the streets to the east and west, and in the below left picture is the view all the way downtown! Bridges, avenues and all - I live down there!!!

Update - Vegas!!

2009-03-22T16:39:00.002-04:00

Time for a little update! Not so long ago, I zoomed out to Vegas for the weekend to spend some time with my Dad!! It was a wonderful trip, and we had a lot of fun as we always seem to do!!

Of course, it was way to short, and I would have loved to have stayed there longer with him, however, work called me back to the city...

We stayed in the Flamingo hotel, and our view looked out onto their gardens, which, if you look closely in the above pic, you can see the pink flamingos through the trees!

And in the pic on the left is my cool-as-you-like Dad!! We had a blast, and we both needed a good 'get away from it all' to a sunny warm destination.

And of course, as usual, we played a ton of roulette, and although lady luck wasn't going crazy for us, we didn't do half bad! Through all my playing, I left with $20 more than what I went with!!!

Flu...

2009-03-17T21:30:00.003-04:00

Well folks, I've been sick... and not your average kind of cold either, the flu got me this time. I haven't had the flu for over a year!

So anyways, my schedule is becoming a bit more even these days (even if I think I said that last time) but my jet setting weekends have come to a (temporary!) end, and although every week these days seem to be packed full, and my weekends are gone in a blink of an eye, I cannot neglect my blog any more!! (I'm even getting my Mum worried!! Sorry Mum!!!)

So, all will be coming thick and fast soon! (and with my new piece of artwork too!)

Also, I had to share the above ecard (from someecards.com) from my very good, and very funny, friend Kara! Oh you know me toooo well dahling!!! ;)

Virginia Beach!

2009-03-05T22:26:00.003-05:00

Thinking of warmer weather... I want to live HERE!!!!! Lake Drive, Virginia Beach... I've got a soft spot for Virginia as it is, and this little cutie is screaming at me to move in!! Ha!!

I'm loving it's lake side location and view, the gorgeous, big and bright sun room, the baby porch at the front, the reading nook in the master bedroom (once you get rid of the tv!), the light in all the rooms, the deck out the back, and it's cosy warmth! A perfect little beach house!

Built in 1948, this three bed, two bath, cottage is a little gem... few changes I would make though.. change the kitchen appliances to stainless steel and a gas stove (and buy that gorgeous mixer next to the cooker from the owner!!), change the countertops too. I'd rip out the wall between the dining room and the living room which strangely has a cut out for the stairs (?), and have a new staircase made - a really nice one, but in keeping with that cottage feel. And of course, I would add my own touches here and there to make it just the way I like it!!!

For a better look yourself, check out it's listing here, and also have the guided - and panoramic tour here! (where you can see the stairs, and all of what I'm talking about a little better!!!)

This Weekend!!

2009-03-05T21:37:00.003-05:00

Ah yes, it's that time again, where I run away from this cold snowy weather to a warm 70 degrees of Las Vegas desert heat... mm, not bad!

This Saturday morning, I shall be relaxing at the Flamingo's Garden Buffet with my wonderful Dad (after jumping the line because of his platinum card!!) And we'll chat away, and look out onto the Flamingo's in the garden as they bask in the sunlight...

Hm, not a bad way to spend a weekend I would say... in fact, I'd say, I CAN'T WAIT!!!!

Last Weekend!

2009-03-05T20:46:00.003-05:00

Well I have been a busy bee lately! Last weekend I went crazy on cleaning and revamping my apartment, trying to bring in Spring quicker with some dusting maybe?!!

Anyways, over the past few months, the number of books I own has greatly increased! I had no idea I had gained so many until I started picking them up from all around the apt and piling them up!!

So first thing first! It was high time my bookshelf got a through dusting, and the additions to my collection were correctly placed - and yes in color order!! What other way IS there??!! ;)

From there, I went from a complete clean, from washing the floors, to organizing my tubes of paint!! me? a little o.t.t.? no!

Above are two pictures of my shelves completed (I have a huge shelves in the living room for bigger books and all of my art books) And below is the 'before' picture! Right after my huge apartment redecoration in Spring 08! (see that post here, here, here and here!!)

I just Love how they're looking now, and with my inspiration pin board too! (which will need a spring revamp soon enough as well!) I'm still looking for the perfect desk (which I posted about here) as well as some nice curtains... I'll get on that soon!

Another thing in my bedroom I just love is my dresser! I remember it from when I was a child in my Dad's house, my Sister had it for soo many years! It's got different pulls on two out of the five drawers, has a huge chip out of the second one down and the paint is crackling in places! It's hitting Shabby Chic, and I adore it!

Check out the photo below on the left! - On the right is a photo I just stumbled across, though I can't remember where from! (If anyone knows, please tell me!!) It completely reminded me of my own dresser!! A little different, a little similar... And I do soo love my antique mirror!! So gorgeous and so perfect on my dresser!!

Campanelli's Apple Blossoms...

2009-02-27T21:16:00.007-05:00

'Apple Blossoms' and 'Wild Rose Berries'

I was just browsing the internet for some inspiration for my next piece of art (starting and -hopefully! - finishing this weekend!!) when I stumbled across the above two prints - which I really like!!

With a little follow up research, I found out they were by the American artist, Pauline Eble Campanelli (1943 - 2001). She painted superrealist still lifes, and although she never got much interest from prestigious galleries or art museums, her prints sold by the thousands through catalogues and poster and print shops. She had reportedly rivaled only Andrew Wyeth in sales by a living artist.

See my previous post about Andrew Wyeth and his artwork here.

'Mute Swan' and 'Don't Put All Your Eggs In One Basket'

'Summer Peaches' and 'Nuts and Oranges'

'All American' and 'Shoo Fly'

Lucky Stars..

2009-02-26T21:28:00.003-05:00

Hiiii.... yes, I know, the regularity of my posts has well, left little to be desired...

Anyways! I'm back, and all has VERY thankfully found it's way back to being normal and good again.

Over the past week I've hopped over to Michigan to see my Dad and my Sister (who's been over from England). It was so very good to see them both, I was glad to find them both with smiles on their faces, and to join in with that comforting security a family can bring... at the end of the day, there is something so wonderful being surrounded by people who would go to the ends of the earth for you, if you needed them, if you asked them to. My family is so priceless like that, I thank my lucky stars to have them all.

Above is a purdy pic of my Sister, Kathryn, it snowed a ton in MI and it was our job to shovel it off the driveway - but not without a few snowball fights and snow angels!!! You'll see Dad's dog Rufus in the background, who has a taste for eating the fluffy white stuff as well as rolling in it!!!!

So posts will be coming thick and fast again soon!!

Work and M&M's...

2009-02-16T17:54:00.004-05:00

Well, I'm taking a break, so I thought I'd do a quick post. Yup, it's President's Day.. but I'm at work. Just as I was yesterday too. Still, I think I prefer the office when I'm the only one in it! Nobody is around to bug me or distract me.. oh yea, and I get to listen, sing, and dance to some terribly cheesy music and no one can see or hear me!! ha!

The below card from Someecards.com is so perfect it made me laugh out loud!!!

Anyways, regarding the M&M's above... I'm eating them as I take my break and thought I'd give you a random fact about myself. Something I bet very few people know about me!
When I open a little pack of M&M's (which unfortunately isn't often! ha!), I sort them all into color order... long stringy lines of chocolate morsels! I flip them up so their M's are showing too. If any are badly damaged, they usually get eaten and get to bypass the whole line thing.. lucky M&M. Then, one by one they go, the colors I don't like first.. yellow, orange, green. Then my red's and browns. I like lining them up to see which color I've got most of!
And then there's my favorite.. the BLUE ones!! I'm happy if I have more blue ones than any other... this time though, green outdid them all by about five morsels.
Blue ones go last.. not that they taste any different mind you.. I just like the blue ones.

Anyways, enough of my random (and slightly weird) habits... time to get back to work!

Meow

2009-02-16T11:42:00.004-05:00

I know my posts have been scarce recently, I've had a lot on my plate, and plenty weighing on my mind... Still, hopefully things will be looking up soon, and my posts will become regular once again.

In the mean time, a totally random thought. When I leave NYC, I've pretty much decided I'm going to get Oscar a little friend (and no, this doesn't mean I'm going to be a crazy cat lady!). Oscar is a hyper little fella, and a little sister would entertain him and bring him someone to play with all the time... I think he'd like it! So a little fuzzy pale furred lady as a feminine contrast his dark, would be perfect.. just like the cute little dopey eyed kitten above!

Still, I couldn't have one now, mainly because I don't have the space for two, and I don't want to be unkind... so I shall await a bigger abode where they can run havoc!

Pool...

2009-02-08T12:31:00.003-05:00

I went out last night with a few friends of mine, we had a great time! By the end of the night we were playing pool, much to my delight! I LOVE playing pool!!! I swear I spent most of my youth playing on the pool tables in the pubs in England, so without trying to toot my own horn too much, I'm not bad at it! However! Last night - after not having played for a year or more, I was rusty - too rusty! And although I made one or two peerrrfect shots, I was not on top form. I was disappointed with myself! Still, I shall give myself the excuse that it was about 2am!

Anyways, I secretly want a pool table in my house one day.. in the basement or library or something! Maybe a gorgeous antique table - I like the aubergine felt better than the green too!

Anyone for a game?

Tim Walker... more of!

2009-02-07T18:31:00.016-05:00

As promised, here is some more Tim Walker Photography! I particularly like the two Vogue ones above, and adore the two whimsical one right below! The one thing that really draws me to Tim's photography is his use of light and shadow, through this, he can make an image really powerful and quite striking, like the one right below on the left - LOVE this photo...

Hooked...

2009-02-07T00:12:00.003-05:00

Today I checked out Tim Walker's Portfolio again, my last post of his work was here in November!

I was thrilled to see more of his photography shown on his site (I'll post more of his work soon!), but this one made me think of a quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson...

"Beauty without grace is the hook without the bait"

My favorite white stuff.

2009-02-03T20:27:00.007-05:00

It's been snowing again in NYC - and if you didn't already know, I LOVE the snow.. and as there isn't much winter left (I think!) Here's just one more snow post... :)

(Above - Cavalli!)

Lotus Love - in situ!

2009-02-03T20:12:00.004-05:00

A little while ago I posted about "Lotus Love", my admiration for a lotus flower chandelier made of hundreds of hand cut capiz shells edged in metal to make these gorgeous spheres!

Well, I found a couple of pictures on Shootfactory which had them perfectly situated and looking gorgeous.... mm, preeetttyy!

Wish Two...

2009-02-01T11:46:00.006-05:00

Milan's famous Teatro Ala Scala.

Time for another Bucket List entry....

I LOVE Italy, I went once when I was about 18, and fell in love with it... I dream of when I'll go back again, stay longer and travel a little more within it...

And so, with that, one day I want to go see a classic Italian Opera, the real thing. Maybe 'La Traviata', of which, is in the youtube link below. I can only image how stunning it must be to hear their voices live, how breathtaking.

Next, where? Well... of course, if I'm going to do this, I want to do it right... so how about Milan's famous Teatro Alla Scala. An absolutely beautiful building, designed by neoclassical architect Giuseppe Piermarini. It opened in 1778, and after being badly bombed during WW2, it reopened in 1946, and quickly regained it's prestigious reputation.

And then, of course, it's the dress.... oh yes, the dress!

I don't think I have ever disliked one of Oscar de la Renta's gowns... I love his consistency of shape and the design of his dresses, he really does know a woman's body - and how to make her look stunning, so feminine, so beautiful, so flattering... and what more does a woman want when they go to the Opera, but to feel absolutely heavenly?

I love the following three Oscar dresses... I'm not sure I could pick between them!

Or perhaps some stunning, silky Versace?! I love all of the following three, careful pleats and shape with a beautiful flow.. gorgeous. I love these colors too...

And yup, I know there's one thing still missing with this trip... but maybe one day I'll get lucky there too, and he'll look just to die for in the perfect suit!!

And so, until then... 'La Traviata' clips from youtube...

Perfect Plum!

2009-01-31T19:43:00.010-05:00

Oh, I do love Roberto Cavalli clothes!! And after seeing the above outfit on the website - I couldn't help but pick out a few matching interiors to go with it!

(The bedroom on the right is from Living Etc.)

Left, Living Etc. Right, House to Home, UK.

Left, Living Etc. Right, Shootfactory.

Wish One...

2009-01-31T16:17:00.010-05:00

these two photographs from Taverne Agency

A few weeks ago, by chance, I watched 'The Bucket List' with Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson (whom I think is a great actor). Anyways, without delving too much into the plot, it's basically about two old men who, sharing the same hospital room, find out they have only a few months to live. In finding this out, they make their 'bucket list' - all of the things they want to do before they die.

This got me thinking, as I'm sure most would, what would I do if I found out I had only months to live? Some answers came right away, others over time... so, I'm going to post them here - in no particular order. The things I want to do, places I want to go... and maybe I'll never have a deadline to keep to.

So - here's one, I want to ride a beautiful horse along an endless beach, and at times, really fast so I can feel the wind on my face. Late in the afternoon too... so I can watch the sun set as I trot alone the sandy beach.... an absolutely beautiful, peaceful, and invigorating moment to be lived.

Thinking about how beautiful and powerful horses are, and how much I admire their beauty, grace within that strength. I couldn't help but think of the photographer Tim Flach, who's 'Equus' book project, displays his entire horse series. For an article and interview with Tim Flach on this, see this link.

These photos say it all, and are so breathtaking, they are so visually descriptive in their simplicity, I am quite captivated.. Here are some of my favorites, I particularly like the one below on the right - which was taken as this horse was racing down a track at 30 mph, and then pulled to a grinding halt... it's a powerful image...

Light Of The Moon...

2009-01-28T20:35:00.004-05:00

In my mind, this is where I am when I hear this music...

I just got off the phone with my Dad, and sometimes he'll play the piano for me while I listen. I absolutely love it...

My most favorite, which he did play, is Claude Debussy's 'Claire de lune'. It's a stunning piece. One that warms my heart in so many ways... It also reminds me of when I listened to him play it at Christmas, which I enjoyed so much. I can see Dad now - and his smile when's he's finished...

Time to go a lil South - Virginia!

2009-01-25T19:33:00.014-05:00

This time - South of the city!! Yup, I'm hunting real estate again.. and thought I'd investigate 'down' since I'd been 'up' already!!

Above is a 5 bedroom, 3 bath, renovated 1915 gorgeous house, sitting on 10 acres in Huddleston, Virginia. Although I'm not a big fan of such renovated homes, I do LOVE the wrap around porch! (I like that green room with the stone fireplace too!)

Below is something a little more up my street! This 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath Farmhouse is known as Bosworth House. Located in Brownsberg, Virginia and built in 1834, it's attached log cabin was built in 1850. I LOVE the architectural details of this house; the chestnut & heart pine floors, the fireplaces (6!), the walls, and the ceiling beams... It's got a beautiful view from the back porch, just a shame that it's only on .45 acres! Still, I love this lil place!!

A Rentin' In Maine...

2009-01-24T21:19:00.006-05:00

Yes, I've been looking at homes in Maine again... this time to rent, although, if I could own either one of these two places I would LOVE it, and make my own little improvements....

Above, a beautiful 3 bed, 1.5 bath house on Cousins Island, near to Portland, which looks over Casco Bay.... I really like the look of this little plot of land! But most of all I LOVE and ADORE that porch.... there are in fact two, one of which comes off the mater bedroom... HEAVEN. I can only imagine how beautiful it would be watching the sun set over the water from there...

Below, is another gorgeous and totally charming little place. 1 bed (although it says it can be a 2 bedroom in the summer? hm..) house in York, and just a short walk to Long Sands Beach.

I'm in love with the total charm this little place has, the brick, the wood, the light, the general cottage feel...cosy and adorable! And completely unpretentious! Just my cup of tea! There's a deck out the back too, although the pictures don't show it... Soo when can I move in?!

Friday...

2009-01-23T21:42:00.006-05:00

Interiors to describe how I feel.... On the left, how I feel right now; worn, beaten, rough, used and abused... On the right, How I wish I felt; fresh, warm, bright, and soft... Thank gosh it's Friday, perhaps I'll wake up to a better day tomorrow.

Brainwashed!

2009-01-21T21:12:00.004-05:00

Humorous Etsy find! From Trixidelicious... onto vintage plates, cups, saucers and more, she hand paints words such as the seven deadly sins, the seven heavenly virtues, and my favorite "Brainwashed"!

She's been featured in Elle Decoration (UK), O at Home and many more.. for the full tale, check out her blog here!

Maine - The Winner!

2009-01-21T20:21:00.007-05:00

Drum Roll Please!!!!! Here is my top house, the one I would move into in an instant, the one which ticks all of my big boxes, a little haven...

Sitting on seven glorious acres, and built in 1830, this three bedroom, 2 3/4 bath, antique coastal cape on the waters edge is beautiful. It's adorable.. and it includes a barn, guest house and two bunkhouses! The possibilities are endless...

And I did want a fixer-uper, and this one's got it coming... I just needs a bit of work (and a better sofa), and of course, this has to be in keeping with this old house!! - Just look at those original old ceiling beams in the photo below! Love them!!!

The lighting, the porch, the gorgeous front of the house (almost like a British cottage!), the amount of land, the view, the water, and yes!!! -One of these bunkhouses (with a bit of tweaking!) would be my very own painting studio!!! Oh! How happy I would be!!!

Okay.. my number one find, a lil slice of heaven in Maine...

Maine - Second Place!

2009-01-21T19:59:00.004-05:00

Runner up! Now, picking between first and second place wasn't easy. And it was just a few things that swung it... but important things.

So here we are, a beautiful and whimsey three bed, 2 3/4 bath, contemporary cottage with panoramic views of Rockland Harbor... and I must say, that deck is stunning!

I love the idea of being near the water - and this is so close you could hear it! With lots of charm, I'm really liking this place... and it has that 'ready to move in' quality which I know many like. Also, on it's lower floor it has a separate apartment, great for guests, as well as - yes!! A painting room!!!

It's current owners have done a wonderful job on redecoration too - whimsy is the right word! Warm, homey, comfortable... this would be a gorgeous place to live, I really couldn't complain...

What does drop it to second place is that it's a 2005 construction. And yes, I'm sure some would kick me for saying such a thing. But I need old... character which has come from many years and generations of use..

The other thing, is again, the proximity to other homes. This house only sits on 0.1 acres... not much. Also, I'm a big fan of putting my own stamp on my home, so 'ready to move in' although nice, isn't a huge selling point for me... I need to retile a bathroom, renovate a kitchen!!

As so... second place, but a really beautiful one..

Maine - Third Place!

2009-01-21T19:42:00.007-05:00

I have been cruising real estate again!! But this time, in Maine, which by the way, I'm really liking the look of!

I found three gorgeous homes I wouldn't say no to, and I'm going to post them all, third place first... So! Without further ado.....

This is a four bedroom, 2.5 bath, colonial house with hardwood floors, located in downtown Camden.. just a five minute walk away.

I love that this house was built in 1903, as I'm not a fan of new housing.. and I just adore the look of the front of this house!! (see first pic!). This house has got a little charm, I'm loving the wood floors, sloped ceilings, fireplaces and the amount of light.... but it's dropped to third for it's lack of garden and acreage (although what it does have is very pretty - don't know about the painted deck), it's proximity to other homes (which are looking right over my back porch) and I'm not quite sure I can see the oodles of charm and character that I'd need...

Still.. third place isn't bad!

Andrew Wyeth

2009-01-16T21:43:00.007-05:00

Andrew Wyeth, 1917-2009

Andrew Wyeth, one of the last great American painters, passed away last night in his sleep. He was at home in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania.

(Today's article on his life's work, from the Washington Post.)

There are sadly few true artists like Wyeth today, and America will surely feel the loss of such a talented man.

His works, with their delicate beauty, peace, and his powerful use of light and shade, contain strong emotional undercurrents.. Every strand of hair, blade of grass and branch on a tree can be seen in it's perfect detail...

Andrew Wyeth was an inspiration, and one which will live on forever... In his own words, from his 1976 exhibition interview;

In some of Wyeth's most unforgettable portraits the subject is not even there. He told Mr. Hoving, "I think a person permeates a spot, and that lost presence makes the environment timeless to me. A lost presense keeps the area alive." Thus, a room, a house, a table setting, such as Karl Kuerner's in "Ground Hog Day" become "the very essence of the man who wasn't there."

In this sense Wyeth's painting is the epitome of the "less is more" precept, an application of measure and effacement that the artist extends even to himself. So intense is his involvement and his control of its expression that Wyeth loses himself in his work and can say quite matter-of-factly, "I don't think I exist really as a person, particularly, I really don't and I'd rather not."

Above, one of my favorite Andrew Wyeth Paintings, "South Cushing", 1955.

Below is a collage, which was passed onto me, of some of his works.. this is beautiful...

Vintage, With Humor!

2009-01-15T22:57:00.006-05:00

I think I have just found the best Flickr set ever! It's time for a little bit of humor!!!

Vintage Ad's posted by SA_Steve, there are so many! Some great, some hilarious, some too "ew", others a little shocking... anyways, here are my favorites!!

May I?

2009-01-14T20:23:00.003-05:00

I would like to be here right now... At this gorgeous little house. It looks so quiet, peaceful, green and lush... and with tea I think, in a beautiful china teacup...

Lean Creations!

2009-01-12T21:38:00.007-05:00

*Lock Ness* 40cm x 40cm

I am surprised at myself for not making the post much earlier!! Shame on me...

My very good friend Sarah (You may remember me yelling out a 'Happy Birthday!' a couple of posts ago to her!), with whom I met while living in Bristol, and who was also studying the same Fine Art Degree as myself, has become one of my most favorite artists ever! And no, I'm not biased - look at them for yourself!!!

Anyways, I have watched her art progress over the past few years, via her website... and I must say, I am totally IN LOVE with her new works, she's stepped it up a gear and I really feel as though she's beginning to show off her true talents as an artist.. they are simply gorgeous! I can't wait to see what she produces next, and where her inspiration takes her!!

So, I've picked out my favorites, but first, I'd like to share with you a word from her!-

"Painting has always been a passion and also something more or less self taught. My work is a pure enjoyment of colour, tone and texture. I revel in being able to play with paint to my heart's content and that others take pleasure from seeing things I have created. I feel the work itself holds a quality which allows it to be evocative and yet, equally, undemanding of the viewer. I believe that attributing significance should be a personal choice."

(Sarah's paintings are available for purchase on her website. She also works on commission, for further information on this, see her website and email her.)

*Just One Sheep* 40cm x 60cm *Nothing's Missing* 45cm x 30cm

*Making Bail* 60cm x 100cm *Looking The Other Way* 110cm x 50cm

*Raison D'etre* 40cm x 75cm *Three Apples and a Pork Pie* 60cm x 80cm

Desk Update...

2009-01-11T12:33:00.003-05:00

So, a little update on the Desk situation... I think I may have found one sooo much better than the ones I posted earlier! Older, better, prettier and basically much more up my street!

I didn't want to spend too much, as I've got my steel desk on hold! But this one is in a style of it's own, and the purchase would be more of an investment, than something temporary..

Anyways, I'll keep you updated on it - and unveil it if it all comes to fruition!

In the mean time, it reminds me a little of this! Which I LOVE! And something I think every woman should remember and hold dear....

My Favorite Compilation...

2009-01-10T20:42:00.004-05:00

I just watched 'Pride and Prejudice' (the 2005 movie), and with my obsession with reading Jane Austen right now, it was an additional pleasure! I LOVE this book, and of course, Mr. Darcy!

A little while ago, while cruising You Tube, I came across one of the best compilations I've ever seen on the site... Clips of 'Pride and Prejudice' to Elton John's 'Tiny Dancer' - a song so very close to my own heart...

So, without further ado, here it is....

My Dream Desk!

2009-01-10T19:30:00.004-05:00

Vintage Metal Desk

Talking of desks....

My Dad has worked for Michigan State University for many years now (I'd have to say 30+ years!), and has had the same office for almost the entire time. Over that time, it's changed a little bit here and there, but it's essentially looked the same as it did when I was a little girl growing up in Michigan.

With that office, he's always had the same greenish metal desk - one I distinctly remember hiding under too! But when he had to move out of there last year, and into the building's new addition, it was a little sad.. (even if his new office looks rather nice!).

Due to this, his desk was to surely change too - and I couldn't bear the idea of loosing his old vintage metal desk which held so many memories, it was like a piece of family history!

Thankfully however, at my insistent request! Dad saved it!! And now sits at his house (along with a matching table!) waiting for me to give it a proper home!!!! One day, I will have it in my home, where it will take pride of place and be tenderly cared for.. I'll look forward to that time!

It looks very similar to the one in the image above - if not exactly like it!

When it does come to be with me, I think I'll have it sit on a cowhide rug, like those in the photos below - either in it's hide shape, or in a patchwork! Perfect!!

Cowhide!! Left, Kim's Living Room (and that's Kim from Desire to Inspire!). Right, Black and White Patchwork rug from Pure Rugs.

my lil room...

2009-01-10T18:30:00.004-05:00

West Elm's Parsons Desk in Silver and in 'Wheatgrass' Green.

This year, I want to do a little re-vamp on my bedroom, give it a little more love lets say..

First off, I think it will be some decent curtains! I'm a little undecided though... I want to keep it simple, clean. So.. sheer-ish cream or white? Or how about something prettier, and a lightly patterned semi sheer white? Hm.. I think I like that idea better! I LOVE the light - in fact I swear I need it at all times... so I'm not into total black-out curtains.

Above, would have to be the next step - a decent desk! The little round one I have right now, is becoming more of a problem than I'd like! There's never enough room! From a little investigation, my favorite would have to be West Elm's Parsons Desk, nice and simple... the silver has a touch of glamour (and on sale!) or perhaps in the new 'Wheatgrass' green?! Oh, decisions!

Ivory Sheer Curtains, and Ikea's Ofelia Curtains

My Dad!!

2009-01-10T10:14:00.007-05:00

Chair Ladder, South Cornwall, UK

So I decided I'm going to do a lil shout out to my Dad!

Even though we're only an hour or so away from each other by plane, I wish we were closer, and I could see him more often than I do (the next time will be the beginning of March! I can't wait!)

My Dad is a great rock climber, and he loves it! He travels all over the US and England with his friends on climbing trips, hitting one rock after another, with Rufus in tow when possible!

Dad used to climb before he met my Mum, and I'm so happy he's gotten back into it so much - it really makes him happy!

This year I'm hoping he'll be making a climbing trip to The Gunks, so he'll be close for a NYC visit!!! Fingers crossed!!

Ripple, Enchanted Rock, Texas High Exposure, The Gunks, New York

Brinton's Buttress, Devil's Lake, Wisconsin The Gunks, New York

*LV's Living*