Seams of Thought

Yummmm

2012-01-25T04:23:00.001-08:00

my love

2011-12-07T11:38:00.001-08:00

Amelie
Born November 2nd at 1:34pm

Pure happpiness!!

With my new bambina, comes a new blog dedicated to her and all things mommy.

xoxo

shower love

2011-10-25T12:23:00.000-07:00

In the mood for some baby shower inspiration?

Checkout my fabulous shower, thrown by my bestie and the mamas in my life. It was 100% perfection! I can't believe what an amazing job they did.

Fabulous dessert table

Candy, cupcakes, creme puffs, yum, yum, yum

Beautiful cupcake cups and handmade picks

Handmade picks spelled out baby's name, Amelie

Handmade signs for each delectable dessert

Favor boxes for guests to fill with goodies

Gorgeous flowers to match the color scheme

Homemade sangria with fresh fruit

Grey & white paper straws and custom printed napkins

Deviled eggs, veggies, shrimp cocktail, and more homemade appetizers

Polka dot linen napkins tied with grey and white ribbon

Merci, my lovelies, merci!

f is for fall

2011-09-29T14:15:00.000-07:00

L is for Love.

Popham Peacoat

In Clouds Blouse
(but, they are snails, not clouds!)

Level 99 Wide Leg Trousers

for dessert

2011-09-18T17:14:00.000-07:00

via Lonny

Better than a hot fudge sundae.

anthro dreams

2011-08-07T19:44:00.000-07:00

Fatigue Finery Cape

High IQ Corduroys

Cissus Button-Up

Stacked Strap Heels

And my heart goes pitter patter.....

Ah, Paris!

2011-07-12T20:17:00.000-07:00

I loved this film!!

Midnight in Paris

Hemingway: No subject is terrible if the story is true and the prose is clean and honest.

Tres bien!

summer

2011-07-10T18:52:00.001-07:00

The Summer Day

by Mary Oliver

Who made the world?
Who made the swan, and the black bear?
Who made the grasshopper?
This grasshopper, I mean -
the one who has flung herself out of the grass,
the one who is eating sugar out of my hand,
who is moving her jaws back and forth instead of up and down -
who is gazing around with her enormous and complicated eyes.
Now she lifts her pale forearms and thoroughly washes her face.
Now she snaps her wings open, and floats away.
I don't know exactly what a prayer is.
I do know how to pay attention, how to fall down
into the grass, how to kneel down in the grass,
how to be idle and blessed, how to stroll through fields,
which is what I have been doing all day.
Tell me, what else should I have done?
Doesn't everything die at last, and too soon?
Tell me, what is it you plan to do
with your one wild and precious life?

lr update

2011-07-01T06:34:00.000-07:00

Our living room has been slowly evolving over the last 12 months since we moved in.
Here's the progression & latest addition:

Starting out

Addition of tulip chairs, pillows, and coffee table.

New rug, yellow tray, and pillow change.

And the latest, a curtain change to Curtainworks Othello Modern Geometric Curtains! Great quality & the price can't be beat (all 4 panels for under $100).
Although I loved the Ikea Merete Curtains we used to have, they didn't warm up the room & it always felt like something was missing.
But, not anymore!

guess who's back

2011-06-18T05:56:00.000-07:00

Well hello there Seams & friends of Seams! It has been far too long! To make up for my hiatus, I bring you Julius Shulman inspiration. If you haven't seen this film, it is a MUST!

Thank you for the recommendation AR!

For more Shulman, checkout this "Oral history interview with Julius Shulman, 1990".

d.i.e.

2011-04-05T18:55:00.000-07:00

Issa Long Kimono Dress

early 30s

2011-04-04T19:48:00.000-07:00

Today I am 32.

There comes a time for nearly all women when they look in the mirror and say, "I'm turning into my mother."
Now a study has confirmed exactly when that moment occurs: age 32.
- NYDailyNews.com

wide

2011-04-02T07:09:00.001-07:00

Alice & Olivia Eric Wide Leg Pants

Delish!

weiwei

2011-03-30T20:06:00.000-07:00

Ai Weiwei

In China, when we grew up, we had nothing...But for even the poorest people, the treat or treasure we'd have would be the sunflower seeds in everybody's pockets.

Iron Wood Polyhedron

Bicycles

Only by encouraging individual freedom, or the individual power of the mind, and by trusting our own feelings, can collective acts be meaningful. - Ai Weiwei

ark-an-sas

2011-03-29T20:31:00.000-07:00

Yes, another wonderful visit with Mamaw!

We shopped at Penney's, made our spaghetti, talked about important things, laughed, and wished the visit was longer. But, we enjoyed every minute of it.

A Time to Talk
by Robert Frost

When a friend calls to me from the road
And slows his horse to a meaning walk,
I don't stand still and look around
On all the hills I haven't hoed,
And shout from where I am, 'What is it?'
No, not as there is a time to talk.
I thrust my hoe in the mellow ground,
Blade-end up and five feet tall,
And plod: I go up to the stone wall
For a friendly visit.

Merci, Mamaw. Merci.

a rose

2011-03-16T19:42:00.000-07:00

from my family photo collection: Mamaw, Aunt Ruth, and Mama Gene

The Rose Family

by Robert Frost

The rose is a rose,
And was always a rose.
But the theory now goes
That the apple's a rose,
And the pear is, and so's
The plum, I suppose.
The dear only know
What will next prove a rose.
You, of course, are a rose -
But were always a rose.

I'm off to Arkansas tomorrow for another lovely visit with Mamaw.

bookshelf additions

2011-03-13T17:14:00.000-07:00

Perch! Basket Bowl
I picked this much coveted bowl up at The Foundary for $31 (regular price $54). It's a great addition to our newly spruced-up bookshelf.

Air Plant!
I went over to my mom's this weekend & stole a few sprouts from the air plant in her backyard. I had the glass container already, so it was an easy project. It just needs a few rocks added to the bottom. I hope it likes its new home.

tape

2011-03-09T19:59:00.000-08:00

So, I tried Jenny's tape project over on Pearl Street Interiors in our entryway & here's how it turned out...

Ta da! I think it adds a little somethin' somethin' to the space. The diamonds are far from perfect (especially towards the bottom), but the imperfection gives it character, right? I put the wall to the test this weekend when my mother-in-law visited & she thought I had painted the lines on, which is exactly what I was hoping for. Who knew tape could be so great?!

I used black Japanese Washi Paper Tape from Happy Tape. It took approximately 4 single rolls at $4.50 a roll + shipping, which brought the total project cost to less than $25 + a sore neck.

Before
Three cheers for tape!
Tape, tape, yaaaaay tape!

mud

2011-03-06T08:59:00.000-08:00

An old favorite.

via Darren Segal

Rice
by Mary Oliver

It grew in the black mud.
It grew under the tiger's orange paws.
Its stems thinner than candles, and as straight.
Its leaves like the feathers of egrets, but green.
The grains cresting, wanting to burst.
Oh, blood of the tiger.

I don't want you to sit down at the table.
I don't want you to just eat, and be content.
I want you to walk out into the fields
where the water is shining, and the rice has risen.
I want you to stand there, far from the white tablecloth.
I want you to fill your hands with the mud, like a blessing.

air plant dreams

2011-03-02T19:58:00.001-08:00

Michael McDowell

Air Plant Globe Terrarium by LBrand

Epiphytic plants (air plants) use photosynthesis for energy and obtain moisture from the air or from dampness on the surface of their hosts. - Wikipedia

1 cup = 16 tbsp

2011-03-01T17:42:00.000-08:00

Kitchen Conversions by Sweet Fine Day

bookshelf re-do

2011-02-27T17:59:00.000-08:00

Before

After

Paint: Behr Creek Bend matched in Olympic
(I stole the color from Jeannie's fabulous office)

The left middle shelf is waiting to be filled with a turntable/audio system for rocking out.

friday night lights

2011-02-26T07:02:00.000-08:00

Happy weekend lovelies!

We went to see The Company Men in the rain last night. I give the movie (and the rain) two thumbs up!

i wish

2011-02-24T22:20:00.001-08:00

This made my day today. It's in no way true, but still put a smile on my face.

From: T
Sent: Thursday, February 24, 2011 10:33 AM
To: Dianna
Subject: FW: On the Street....Blue London, Part 1, London

Thought you might get a kick out of this.

From: G
Sent: Thursday, February 24, 2011 10:26 AM
To: T
Subject: On the Street....Blue London, Part 1, London

this reminds me of dianna.

Wouldn't it be nice to be as chic as this fantastic lady? Yes, yes it would.

r.a.d.

2011-02-22T20:33:00.000-08:00

Schoolhouse Electric Co.

Orbit 7

weekend haps

2011-02-21T17:33:00.000-08:00

It was a rainy weekend here in So Cal & a long one for me, thanks to the holiday! The sun did peek through on Saturday, just long enough for my good friend Jeannie & I to enjoy the Racquet Club Estates Mid-Century Modern Homes Tour in Palm Springs. It was great fun!

This home was our favorite because of the incredible art collection both inside and outside & the textured wallcovering used in several rooms.

I fell in LOVE with this Frank Lloyd Wright Midway Garden Sprite, welcoming us as we walked up to this home. I've added the smaller version it to my wish list for our house.

I took advantage of the 3-day weekend and tackled our bookshelves. This is the before photo, the after photos are coming soon.

one avocado

2011-02-17T19:43:00.000-08:00

I recently put an avocado in my bag & forgot it was there for 2 weeks. Yes, it's true. I have no idea how this happened. How I avoided reaching into that corner of the bag I use every single day until it was too late, I will never know. The result of this "mishap" is a ruined bag (boo) and the need for a new one (yay). So, here's my new friend Milly. Isn't she purdy?! If all goes well, there will not be any moldy avocados in her future.

Milly Shiny Leather Hobo

happy heart day

2011-02-14T00:00:00.000-08:00

wall inspiration

2011-02-13T12:38:00.000-08:00

As much as I am obsessed with wallpaper & really want to use it in our house, there are two obstacles standing in my way. Number one, I have serious commitment issues & number two, the price does not align with my budget.
Luckily, there are so many wallpaper alternatives out there to consider.

Option #1 - Temporary Wallpaper
Takes care of the commitment issue & is more budget friendly. I love Silver Gio from Tempaper and the Sherwin Williams' Easychange line is great. It takes a little searching to find the treasures, but they're there.

Option #2 - Sharpie Stenciled Wallpaper
So cool! Checkout this HGTV how-to.

Option #3 - Contact Paper
Such a great way to add excitement to a wall without the permanence of wallpaper & at a very low cost. Checkout this fantastic chevron wall tutorial via Sabbe.

Option #4 - Stencils
There are so many fantastic stencil options out there. Royal Design Studio has some really great modern patterns and all under $50. I recently picked up the Chainlink Allover stencil with our powder room in mind.

Option #5 - Tape

I never would have thought of using tape to make your own wallpaper, until I saw this tutorial over on Pearl Street Interiors. Brilliant! Happy Tape is just the place to find Japanese Washi Paper Tape in lots of colors for this project. I recently picked up a few rolls of black at $4.50 a roll to try in our entryway.

one from her

2011-02-12T07:09:00.000-08:00

One year after they were married.

King, Ark.
June 4, 1897

My Dearest,

I was so glad to hear from you yesterday. I was afraid you would not write any more until you got to Marshall. I am getting along as well as anyone could. I can't be exactly well all the time. I wanted you to be here last night because I was sick, and couldn't sleep, but this morning I am all right and glad that you are where you can do the work your heart delights in. I wish I could be with you in your work and be benefited by it, but that could not be and so I'm happy anyway. I think everything is getting along nicely at home. Of course things happen that worry me but I think all will be right in the end. I love (torn out) and Belle better, if (torn out) than I ever did. I must write to Charlie today. Darling, I want to be a help to you and not a hindrance and I want you to tell me just what I ask you. Will you? Anything you say will please me. I need a new wrapper, and I can get a nice one for eighty cents. There is some pretty Swiss here and if I were to get a dress of it would (torn out) be pretty and then - now laugh - I can make the baby a dress of it. It is 12 and a half cents a yd. Tell me all about it dear. I am not wanting either if I ought not to have them. Tell you girl if she is getting too extravagant and she won't want a thing. It is too wet to work in the garden today, but tomorrow I am going to see what I can do.

Please write to your girl everyday. I was sick yesterday or I would not have felt bad at all. I felt all right after I got your letter. I can not tell you how glad I am that you found your uncle and cousins. I wish I could see those boys. I feel as though your trip was not all lonely. Write to Helen. Write soon oh very soon to your own girl,

Lottie

before becoming his lottie

2011-02-10T17:00:00.000-08:00

Mar. 30, 1895

Miss Eugenia,

If agreeable I would be pleased to call this eve in time for church.

Very respectfully,
W.T.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Apr. 13, 1895

Miss Eugenia,

I think that quite a number of the students will attend service at the Catholic church tomorrow morning at 10 O'clock, and if you would like to go, I would be pleased to accompany you.

Very respectfully,
W.T.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Apr. 28, 1895

Miss Eugenia,

I would be greatly pleased to call this eve in time for church.

Very respectfully,
W.T.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jun. 8, 1895

Miss Eugenia,

I thank you for your kindness, and will be pleased to call for the nice fruit. If you would like to attend the Mirror Rally at 8-15 I would like very much to accompany you.

Very respectfully,
W.T.

love letter

2011-02-09T19:53:00.000-08:00

From a collection of letters between my g.g.grandfather and g.g.grandmother.

Conway, Ark.
June 19, 1896

My Darling Lottie,

When we came here last September, we counted the long years until you could graduate and go with me. After you went away to teach at Hamlet, we decided that the years were too long and we shortened them into less than one year, fixing our wedding day in September. When you returned to school, we talked of the long time until September, and our marriage was fixed for June. We said three months, two months, one month, four, three, two weeks, and we would be married and separate for our summer's work. Tonight it is one week until our wedding day and you are going with me, to stay, throughout the long, tiresome summer, throughout our lives. And yet with the short time I get impatient. I want you tonight. Every day I need my own darling Lottie. The time seems near at hand when we can have a home of our own. If you do not teach this summer, you can begin to fix for our home in September. I want us to be all by ourselves as soon as possible. It seems to me that as complete happiness as can come to mortals is very near to us now. Only one more Tuesday night is to pass over me in my bachelor state. In contemplation of my wedding day I am as happy as my impatience will let me be. I am sorry that I must pass next Sunday without seeing you, but it will be very busy. There will be two sermons and a YMCA service to attend. Monday and Tuesday will be very busy also. There will be a crowd here from Saturday on to the close. I am glad the time is short. It will soon pass away and I'll claim Lottie for my wife.

I am very well prepared for commencement. I stood my French examination this evening and I am sure that I made a good grade. I have but one more, Latin, and I am reviewing that. I have been reading it tonight. I have plenty of time to review it well, and I have never made much less than ninety on it. I have no fear for it. I know my orations well enough to rehearse them. I practiced both of them this evening without referring to my manuscripts.

Next Tuesday morning I'll need for Lottie to remember me strongly about ten o'clock. My memory is treacherous sometimes. I do not want to forget my speech even if I can not win the medal. I am sorry my course was so heavy that I could not work for the scholarship medal. I wished it because you got one. Everything is alright though. I'll get Lottie and that will be enough for one fellow. As you can see from this writing I am all jerky, and I'll wait awhile.

Goodnight my own precious darling,
Willie

There's so much to love about these letters; the writing, their dedication to each other, and the depth of feeling each one portrays. I also love the fact that her academic success seemed to challenge him, even though he was a high achiever in his own right, and that she was the one to win the scholarship medal.

paris dreams part I

2011-02-04T17:00:00.000-08:00

There are few places more romantic than Paris. And there are few things more delicious than a warm crepe on a cold winter's day.

From our trip last winter.
Mmmmmm! I can almost taste the sweetness.

always

2011-02-03T17:00:00.000-08:00

by Row Boat Press (spotted via)

Pitter patter goes my heart.

Bag-O-Gold

2011-02-02T17:00:00.000-08:00

I know we have been on EmersonMade overload lately, but how can we stop ourselves when they have so many fantastic offerings?!

The latest addition is the Bag O' White Ts!
There are few things more important in one's wardrobe than good white tees. Such a simple thing, but nearly impossible to find. Until now.

Perfection!

2011-02-01T17:00:00.000-08:00

For us, my love.

plexiroids

2011-01-31T17:00:00.000-08:00

How cool are Grant Hamilton's plexiroids, you ask? Pretty damn cool.

Neopolitan #3

Super Awesome

Kisses & Hugs

Found via You Are My Fave

sunday, sunday

2011-01-30T13:57:00.000-08:00

Morning
by Mary Oliver

Salt shining behind its glass cylinder.
Milk in a blue bowl. The yellow linoleum.
The cat stretching her black body from the pillow.
The way she makes her curvaceous response to the small, kind gesture.
Then laps the bowl clean.
Then wants to go out into the world
where she leaps lightly and for no apparent reason across the lawn,
then sits, perfectly still, in the grass.
I watch her a little while, thinking:
what more could I do with wild words?
I stand in the cold kitchen, bowing down to her.
I stand in the cold kitchen, everything wonderful around me.

yes, more wedges

2011-01-28T17:00:00.000-08:00

Why? Because the world spins & the obsession continues...Luichiny Pop Pin Wedge

Butter Sure Platform Slingback - Navy/Camel

JUMP Bess Wedge

Seychelles Hawk Open-Toe Bootie

marlon blackwell

2011-01-27T17:00:00.000-08:00

The Works of Marlon Blackwell

I recently discovered Marlon Blackwell before my most recent trip to Arkansas. And, while there, I was lucky enough to see the Keenan TowerHouse. His work is amazing and quite unexpected, but very well suited, for the Ozarks.
For Christmas I received a package from Mamaw that contained his book. An excellent collection of his work & explanation of his history. One of my most favorite books. Merci, Mamaw!

Srygley Office Building

Blessing Golf Clubhouse

L-Stack House

perch!

2011-01-26T17:00:00.000-08:00

Perch! Design makes me swoon.

Made from low impact materials & processes, non-toxic finishes and byproducts, Perch! products are environmentally friendly & beyond fantastic.
Some of my faves...

Stan the Bird and let's not forget about Henrietta.

Plantorb, yum!

Candle Orange

Last, but certainly not least, the Basket Bowl. I am secretly obsessed with this bowl. The basket shape, the design, the glossy white finish, it's just so dreamy.

eco-cuteness

2011-01-25T17:00:00.000-08:00

How adorable are these pillows & prints from Ferm Living?!
Sure, they're more for a kid's room, but I would like them for my room too. I can't decide which adorable creature I like best.
100% organic cotton shell with zipper closure & down filling.
And, to make them even more tempting, the pillows are 20% off at Branch Home ($36 ea).
Tres bien!

dining with elle

2011-01-24T17:00:00.000-08:00

So fresh & so clean, clean.Elle Decor

3!

2011-01-22T06:20:00.000-08:00

Modest print by The Light Fantastic

Seams of Thought is 3!
Oh, how they do grow-up so quickly.
Thank you, dear readers, for continuing to stop in.
What would I do without you & without this little space in the world?

xo.

exposed bulb love

2011-01-21T17:00:00.000-08:00

I love all of the exposed bulb fixtures that are out there, especially the West Elm Cluster Bulb Pendant and my favorite of all time (why don't I own one yet?).

Lonny Mag loves them too.

local library

2011-01-20T17:00:00.000-08:00

I love, love, love Lauren Haupt's jewelry. So many beautiful & unique pieces that are exceptionally well made.

Gold Nesting

Little Wing, Gold

Black/Gold

Gold/Rose Gold Trio

My personal favorite & a recent addition to my jewelry box.

Bellissimo!

oo la la

2011-01-19T17:00:00.000-08:00

Checkolite Chrome Crystal Sphere

Home Depot isn't known for carrying the most interesting lighting, but this beaut is quite the exception. I love it! The price is on the higher side at $300-$400 depending on size (14" or 21"), but it might just be worth it.

w is for wedge

2011-01-18T17:00:00.000-08:00

The wedge obsession continues.L.A.M.B. Plum Suede Wedge

L.A.M.B. Caitlin T-Strap Wedge

new look

2011-01-16T23:01:00.001-08:00

Seams has a new look!!
New header, features, and layout in honor of our upcoming 3rd blogiversary. What do you think?

deal of the day

2011-01-16T12:38:00.000-08:00

West Elm Cross Dye Basic Napkin

Since we are a paper towel/paper napkin-free house (except for cleaning up the occasional cat barf), I'm always on the lookout for good deals on cloth napkins. I previously tried the Buffet Napkins from Cost Plus, but the quality was really disappointing. Then I found the West Elm Cross Dye Basic Napkin. The fabric is soft, the size is generous at 22" square, and the color choices are great.

At $12 for a set of 4, the best buy is to snatch up the sale colors. I recently bought blue and poinsettia at $2.97 per set plus free shipping. And, to make the deal even sweeter, West Elm was offering an additional 20% off of sale items, which put the total cost at $2.38 per set.

Tres bien!

edison...again

2011-01-16T06:30:00.001-08:00

Nicole over at Making it Lovely has the much-dreamed-about Edison Chandelier in her bedroom & it looks fantastic!

via Making it Lovely

roar!

2011-01-15T06:53:00.000-08:00

As if the new t-shirts weren't enough, EmersonMade has added gold coin necklaces! And, they are beyond fantastic!

Choose from the monarch, bird, balloon, lion, dragonfly, and little lucky clover. All but 2 are engraved with Latin phrases to accompany the image.

I am a sucker for coin jewelry (and anything EmersonMade), so I had to scoop one up for myself (naturally). My choice was the lion, but, truth-be-told, I secretly wish to own all 6.

Lion Coin: "Fiducia, Virtus, Amplitudo" - Confidence, Courage, Nobility of Soul
Roar!

love

2011-01-12T20:10:00.000-08:00

Guess what?! Our favorite shop, EmersonMade, has tees!

Just in time for Valentine's Day, the paper heart tee is calling my name.

lr update

2011-01-11T20:06:00.000-08:00

More changes to the living room.

Before

After

1. Rug: West Elm 8 x 10 Starlings Rug (Ikea rug moved to the dining room)

2. Pillows: Yellow Chevron Pillows from This Little Home (Mod Diva pillows moved to the bedroom)
3. Tray: West Elm Yellow Lacquer Wood Tray

rack

2011-01-10T20:19:00.001-08:00

I'm embarrassed to admit that I just discovered Nordstrom Rack is online. I went to the actual store once and never went back because it was such a mess. So, I'm excited to be able to checkout the deals online. And there are so many!

Kate Spade NY Ela Coat

Guess Tweed Riding Jacket
Previously lusted over here.

L.A.M.B. Walderston Satchel

Stuart Weitzman Stiltspump

Jeffrey Campbell Dance Pump

blue valentine

2011-01-09T16:54:00.000-08:00

I give this film a solid B+. Michelle Williams & Ryan Gosling are fantastic. It is a raw, hard and very real (almost too real) look at a relationship and love. Gosling's character brings in humor to lighten it up some. A must-see in my book.

forever love

2011-01-04T17:00:00.000-08:00

I fall in love with Amelie more and more each time I watch it. A forever love, for sure.

Narrator: Amelie has a strange feeling of absolute harmony. It's a perfect moment. A soft light, a scent in the air, the quiet murmur of the city. A surge of love, an urge to help mankind overcomes her.

crops

2011-01-03T18:11:00.000-08:00

Vince Cropped Flare Pants

Oh so good!

sot year in review

2011-01-03T10:48:00.000-08:00

2010 was a good year here at Seams, I'd say. How was your year?

A few highlights...

January

We rang in 2010 along the Seine in Paris, with champagne in our hair & frozen fingertips, during one of the most fantastic trips of our lives. And, Seams turned 2!

February During the month of love, we drooled over schoolboys, bell bottoms, and cute kitties.

March

March was a busy month, we oohed and awed over photos of Sadie-Blue, tried our skills on the slopes, put our condo on the market (ack!), and went to Pasadena for the Pasadena Heritage Spring Home Tour (fantastique!).

AprilIn April, I turned 31, we celebrated the 40th Earth Day, and became 100% obsessed with everything house.

MayThe house obsession continued into May while we found inspiration for our new house & waited (very impatiently) for escrow to close.

JuneIn June, we breathed a sigh of relief after landing in our new house, made progress in our living room, and got back to fashion just a little bit.

JulyJuly was a month full of more home inspiration and a tulip delivery(!).

AugustIn August, we found Hudson Wide Legs and made more progress.

SeptemberIn September, we missed Missy Foo while she was away from home, celebrated our 6 year wedding anniversary, and fell in love with mercury glass.

October
In October, we crashed Jeannie's fabulous office, were introduced to Eva Zeisel, and died over the Chris Benz 2011 Spring collection.

November
In November, we were inspired by Sunset Magazine, Stieg Larson, and food (naturally).

DecemberIn December, we put up Christmas decs, recapped my visit with Mamaw, and found hostess gift ideas.

We ended the year happy and content, with lots of excitement for whatever comes next. Wishing you all a very happy 2011!

january

2011-01-02T14:48:00.000-08:00

Straight A Student Coat - Mod Cloth

Origami Amy Navy Blue Dress - Lulu's

Low Whispers Petticoat - Mod Cloth

It's a Bird, It's a Dame Navy Blue Dress - Lulu's

wowza

2011-01-02T06:42:00.000-08:00

Lanvin Puzzle Peep Toe Wedge

What do you say we start the new year off right by adding this beauty to our closets? Or, at least our dream closets. My jaw is dropped.

bon anne!

2010-12-31T18:10:00.000-08:00

Paris, NYE 2009 by moi

Wishing you a very happy New Year & all things good in 2011!
Thank you for visiting Seams of Thought & continuing to inspire me.
xo

powder inspiration

2010-12-31T14:16:00.001-08:00

Our powder room hasn't received much attention since we moved in, but the ideas continue to churn. A few changes to spruce it up are next on our list.

Vanity area

Current light fixture & mirror

Wish list - Sparkle Chrome Crystal Fixture

Mirror option #1 - Baroque Style Mirror

Gorgeous & quite substantial in size, but way out of our price range. We'll put this one on our dream wish list.

Mirror option #2 - Kenroy Home Kendrick Wall Mirror
I love the texture & white lacquer finish of the frame & the price is right.

Mirror option #3 - Chunky Wood Mirror
Even though the frame is not detailed, the chunkiness & finish choices add interest.

I love the pedestal sink & faucet, so no change is needed there. But, I would like to find a bright/patterned hand towel to add color.

Adding shelves above the toilette will give us an area to display pretty things & warm up the space.

Wish list - Lacquer Thin Shelf

holiday

2010-12-30T11:57:00.000-08:00

Hope you are enjoying the holiday season!

A few of my favorite photos from our festivities...

for the birds

2010-12-28T07:00:00.000-08:00

Alessi Bird Tea Kettle

cozy cardis

2010-12-27T07:43:00.000-08:00

Rubbish Fair Isle Cardi

Zeotrope Cardi

Cooperative Pet Intarsia Cardi
Who doesn't love a cat sweater?

powder

2010-12-26T07:06:00.001-08:00

via decorpad

yellow Baroque mirror + silhouettes = l.o.v.e.

joyeux noël

2010-12-24T06:56:00.000-08:00

Wishing you a very merry Christmas from our family to yours!

xoxo

hello lova

2010-12-21T21:51:00.000-08:00

Chloe Cary Zipped Shoulder Bag

hostess bouquet

2010-12-19T20:54:00.001-08:00

My version of a DIY hostess gift winter flower arrangement, via Little House Blog.

We went to several Christmas parties this weekend & a winter flower arrangement was the perfect hostess gift (& so economical). I had a collection of clear vases stashed away in a cabinet, so the only cost was the flowers. I picked them up at Trader Joe's, bringing the total cost per arrangement to approximately $8.

Missy Foo & Betty approved.

partay

2010-12-19T07:02:00.001-08:00

via here

nice baeg

2010-12-18T07:09:00.000-08:00

2-tone love.

Chloe Billie Leather Bowler

Kate Spade NY Frosted Felt Magazine Tote

Rebecca Minkoff Covet Ostrich Embossed Satchel

tgif

2010-12-17T00:00:00.000-08:00

via canadian house & home

Quite fantastic, no? If you think the exterior & sunshine yellow door are great, checkout the inside here. Die.

trees

2010-12-13T19:40:00.000-08:00

First, for the good news, the white tree arrived & I like it!

But, the red tree is officially the biggest disappointment of the season and went straight back to Target.

This pathetic little tinsel tree did not even come close to fulfilling my red tree dream. Maybe next year...

dr update

2010-12-13T17:00:00.000-08:00

Dining room changes...

Before

After

Replaced the Agnes Martin prints above the cabinet with a CB2 Wire 9 Cube Wall Shelf
Moved the Ikea Hulda Vilse Rug in from the living room
Added a 3-Piece Lotus Holder from CB2 to the center of the table

The cube shelf is a great place to display various ceramics & glassware. I added the CB2 Beam Mugs for a splash of color.

Who's out there Missy Foo?

Holiday table setting for a recent dinner party

Still on the list:
A new frame for the mirror, etc, etc.

a start

2010-12-12T19:09:00.000-08:00

I started our stairway gallery today, but am far from finishing. The hardest part was hanging the first frame, it got easier with each nail.

Before

So far.
From left to right:
1. Top left - empty Ikea frame, which will be filled soon
2. Bottom left - xoxo Fayetteville print via Capow
3. Top middle - Agnes Martin 6 limited edition vellum print
4. Bottom middle - NYE in Paris taken by moi
5. Right - wedding photo of Pipo's parents

2. xoxo Fayetteville print via Capow

3. Agnes Martin 6

4. NYE in Paris

More to come....

hostess gifts

2010-12-12T17:32:00.000-08:00

A few ideas for your favorite hostess with the most-est.

DIY elegant winter flower arrangement via Little House Blog

Pure & Good Hand Soap - Anthro

Hourglass Salt & Pepper Shakers - Pottery Barn

Jo Malone Candles

Live Paperwhite in Barbara Eigan Cachepot - Pottery Barn

Always a favorite - Veuve Clicquot

stairs

2010-12-11T07:58:00.001-08:00

via design sponge

My weekend project & I'm scared to death.

happy weekend lovelies!

2010-12-11T07:34:00.000-08:00

And who do you think you are
Running around leaving scars
Collecting your jar of hearts
And tearing love apart

ar-kansas

2010-12-09T20:11:00.000-08:00

Without further ado, I give you another fun-filled trip to Arkansas to visit Mamaw...

The leaves were gorgeous & the air was crisp. We spent much of the time oohing and ahhing over all of the beautiful Fall colors.

I stayed at Mamaw's while my bro & fam stayed at a hotel nearby.

We ate chocolate before bed and & wished each other goodnight.

We shopped at Masons, our tradition & my favorite place.

And enjoyed every minute of it. I brought home several treasures, including a red Splendid 1 x 1 cardigan, a grey BB Dakota Miner Jacket, and a fabulous grey zipper clutch. Tres bien!

We wore our Razorback red & called the Hogs. The Razorbacks beat UTEP 58 to 21.

We made our spaghetti and treated each other to books. I picked Margaret Atwood's latest. We saw Marlon Blackwell's Keenan TowerHouse, shopped for antiques, laughed a lot, and cried when we had to say goodbye.

For Once, Then, Something
by Robert Frost

Others taunt me for having knelt at well-curbs
Always wrong to the light, so never seeing
Deeper down in the well than where the water
Gives me back in a shining surface picture
Me myself in the summer heaven godlike
Looking out of a wreath of fern and cloud puffs.
Once, when trying with chin against well-curb,
I discerned, as I thought, beyond the picture,
Through the picture, a something white, uncertain,
Something more of the depths - and then I lost it.
Water came to rebuke the too clear water.
One drop fell from a fern, and lo, a ripple
Shook whatever it was lay there at bottom,
Blurred it, blotted it out. What was that whiteness?
Truth? A pebble of quartz? For once, then, something.

Merci, Mamaw. Merci.

eye spy

2010-12-08T19:45:00.000-08:00

Eye chart decor & accessories are totally rad.

Ikea Gyllen Light

Eye Chart - Gemini Studio

Eye Chart Glasses Case - Uncommon Goods

Customized Eye Chart Pendant - Yvonne 4 Eyes

Albert Einstein Eye Chart Print - Oh Kayk

glossy gloss

2010-12-05T15:11:00.001-08:00

M.A.C.'A Tartan Tale gift sets

I love these sets! Lucky for me, I just received the Sassy Coral Lassies' Lipglass Set from my good friend Jenny. I'm so excited!!

christmas is coming

2010-12-05T07:34:00.000-08:00

As a kid, whenever I would ask for something during the year, my mom would usually reply with, "Christmas is coming". Which meant that everything I asked for from about July on, had to wait for Christmas. And, inevitably, by the time Christmas rolled around, I had forgotten what I had asked for in the months prior.

Now that December is here, and I am finding all sorts of treasures that I would like to add to my closet/jewelry box/home, I hear those 3 words repeated over & over in my head as I attempt to practice some form of self control.

Here are some finds that have tempted me so & I've either been successful or unsuccessful at resisting.

Unsuccessful!
Vintage Courreges Paris Fine Whale Corduroy Skirt - Ikhan Vintage
Completely impossible to resist, I would have eaten Top Ramen for the rest of my life to be able to bring this one home. I died when it arrived & saw that it is even more beautiful in person.

Successful (so far)!
Cross Stitch Sweater Cardigan - F21
It's living in my shopping cart, but I have not taken the plunge yet. I just love the shawl collar and cross stitch design.

Successful!
Kissing Bird Ring Gold Vermeil - Odette New York

So unique and dainty, I'm adding this one to my list for Santa.

Successful!
Traveler Necklace - Japonicas
This fantastic pendant, along with everything Japonicas, has been added to my list.

Successful (sad face)
24K Gold Encased Geode Long Necklace - Iris Jewelry Design
I LOVE this necklace! It only doesn't belong to me (yet) because I can't justify the splurge.

Successful!
Rock Star Scientist Posters Steampunk Prints - Megan Lee Katauskas

How cool are these?! We don't have any room in our home for them, but I wish we did. They remind me of you, Megan.

And, remember, Christmas is coming!

thanksgiving

2010-11-29T20:26:00.001-08:00

How fabulous was the long weekend?! I could use one of those every week! Thanksgiving was tres bien & so was the rest of our holiday.

Sauteed Green Beans with Tomatoes & Basil

Pumpkin Banana Mousse Tart

"Turkey" & "ham" from our favorite vegan restaurant, The Wheel of Life.

We spent Friday at Magic Mountain with my bro & fam, our annual tradition.

The rest of the weekend was spent relaxing, eating leftovers, watching movies, and relaxing some more. I also took advantage of some of the online deals, of course, and decided on our Christmas tree(s).

Prelit White Glacier Pine Tree for the living room.

Prelit Pencil Tree for the dining room.

I'm thankful for such a fantastic weekend & for you, dear readers.
xo

happy tofurky day!

2010-11-24T18:46:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving lovelies!
A few new recipes I'll be trying this year...
Sauteed Green Beans with Tomatoes and Basil

Pumpkin Banana Mousse Tart

And, No-Bake Apple Ice Cream Pie.

Cheers!

sunset

2010-11-22T17:10:00.000-08:00

Three more reasons to love Sunset Magazine...

Decadent Chocolate Mousse

Ladies and Gentlemen Studios - Superior Servers

Fall Table Settings

more books

2010-11-22T14:05:00.000-08:00

Penguin's hardcover & graphic classics are the perfect gift for your favorite book lover.

happy weekend!

2010-11-20T06:09:00.000-08:00

I'll be spending mine at home with a cold (ugh), so I hope yours is much better.
How about some orange delight to start it off right?!

via Brandon Barre Photography

this week's finds

2010-11-17T16:09:00.000-08:00

So far this week...

M by MJ Henry Rose Gold Chronograph Watch
Love at first sight. And, on second sight, the Henry 2-Tone is almost equally as rad.

7 For All Mankind Cali Bell Bottom
I'm drooling.

Illume Monogrammed Votive
Soylicious.

P.S. Arkansas pictures are coming soon. I spent a few fabulous days there last week surrounded by beautiful Fall leaves, crisp air, and my wonderful Mamaw.

books on the brain

2010-11-15T19:44:00.000-08:00

I am officially fully (100%, rarely think about anything else) immersed in this series & still trying to figure out what to do with our bookshelves.

Luckily, i suwannee's bookcase of the day series is full of inspiration!

hello lova

2010-11-15T19:36:00.000-08:00

Found via the always amazing Belle Maison.

weekend haps

2010-11-07T15:22:00.001-08:00

Saturday afternoon at the roller rink + discovering Marlon Blackwell + daylight savings = F.U.N.!

It takes two to make a thing go right...

In preparation for a visit to Fayettevile, AR to see Mamaw next week (yay!), I stumbled across Marlon Blackwell's fantastic architecture.

L-Stack House, Fayetteville, AR

I couldn't pass this one up, Faux Fur Trim Cardigan.

Betty enjoyed the long Sunday afternoon in her favorite napping spot.

beaut boots

2010-11-04T17:00:00.000-07:00

Cri de Coeur's Sara Ankle Boots are deliciously bad ass!

Ash

Mocha

Java

I can't decide which flavor I like best.

dear santa

2010-11-03T19:47:00.000-07:00

Because it's never too early, I'm adding anything & everything from EmersonMade to the top of my Christmas list.

1960's Jacket - The Tweed

The Pockets Skirt - Goldie

Dandy and Dogs Clutch

EM Pumpkin Patent Heels

White Bouquet

Harvest Runner - Giving Thanks

One for me, one for you. Two for me, one for you.

weekend haps

2010-11-01T19:32:00.000-07:00

How was your weekend? Sad it's over, I know, but I hope it was fun!

We had fun & also accomplished a few things around the house. First, we organized the garage, which I don't have photos of, but it was a success & my muscles are still sore! Second, we spruced-up the upstairs hall by hanging some art.

Before

After
End of the hall: Jean-Paul Philippe Bird Sketch
Movie poster illustrations: Claudia Varosio

We also hung some shelving in the Master Bath, which really warmed up the space. But, I'm still playing around with what to put on the shelves.

And then there was Halloween!

The trick-or-treaters were out in full force & it was so much fun!

Missy Foo hid under the covers all night.

bookshelf inspiration

2010-10-31T13:45:00.000-07:00

These are our built-in bookshelves, which I love, but am having a hard time getting to look right. The shelves are deep, which leaves a lot of space to fill, and makes my book collection look minuscule. I'm in need of inspiration for sprucing them up.

via luxury living

via house to home

via spoon & tomango

via ill seen, ill said

via home design

happy weekend!

2010-10-29T18:24:00.000-07:00

True love.

too soon

2010-10-27T20:00:00.000-07:00

After coming across these fabulous red flocked trees in Paris last year, I haven't been able to stop thinking about them. Our current artificial tree is on it's last leg, so it seems fitting that we start with a new tree this year, in our new house, to commemorate our unforgettable trip.

I know it's early, but I've already started the search for the right one. Here are some red options & other fun trees I've found so far. If you're going to go faux, go all the way.

Prelit Slim Ashley Tree - Red

Rudolph the Red Christmas Tree

Blinded by the White Snow Pine

Cashmere Tree Blue

Flocked Alpin e

Little Miss Sunshine Yellow Christmas Tree

Pre-Lit Fantasy Silver Tree

All of this Christmas thinking also brought about the realization that we don't have a mantel to hang our stockings from (hmm...).

Seams of Thought

Yummmm

my love

shower love

f is for fall

for dessert

anthro dreams

Ah, Paris!

summer

lr update

guess who's back

d.i.e.

early 30s

wide

weiwei

ark-an-sas

a rose

bookshelf additions

tape

mud

air plant dreams

1 cup = 16 tbsp

bookshelf re-do

friday night lights

i wish

r.a.d.

weekend haps

one avocado

happy heart day

wall inspiration

one from her

before becoming his lottie

love letter

paris dreams part I

always

Bag-O-Gold

compartir

plexiroids

sunday, sunday

yes, more wedges

marlon blackwell

perch!

eco-cuteness

dining with elle

3!

exposed bulb love

local library

oo la la

w is for wedge

new look

deal of the day

edison...again

roar!

love

lr update

rack

blue valentine

forever love

crops

sot year in review

january

wowza

bon anne!

powder inspiration

holiday

for the birds

cozy cardis

powder

joyeux noël

hello lova

hostess bouquet

partay

nice baeg

tgif

trees

dr update

a start

hostess gifts

stairs

happy weekend lovelies!