Oh Deer

Love simple, stylish and inexpensive art. 

Stumbled upon this treasure a while ago..and can't find the original source...Trying to convince a friend to reproduce it..this would be great mixed into a group of photos, oil paintings and immediately makes me think about settling in for Fall. 

Happy Weekend

This has been a CRAZY, busy and really tiring week. (translation, little free time, and no blogging )

Wanting to relax and recharge this weekend, with likely some work mixed in. 

This beautiful image from one of my favorite photographers, Ken Kochey sums up my weekend plans.

Have a great weekend, recharge!

Tara Donne..I heart photography

I love photography. There is nothing much more to add...There is so much captured in a photograph and I am in awe of those with a keen eye and an opportunity to capture the layers of life. 

Photography and imagery are something I wanted to incorporate into our stores, and I realize I have yet to really do so...

Seasonal Photos that celebrate the cycles of life

Local Photographers who capture the life in the nearby surroundings

Simple Photography lessons and celebrations of kids own works...our daughter truly takes the most amazing shots

Images that celebrate who kids really are, free in exploring and doing and the people who love them

And on an on I go...motivated again to reconnect with those plans and to make it happen. 

Until then,  the work of Tara Donne is added to my file....her work is exquisite.

Sweetiepie New York

Planning a trip in October to NYC and making a little list of places to go...Thinking that a trip to Sweetiepie is on the top of the list. The concept was developed as a place for kids to take their parents to...What is not to love about that...

What is not to love at a restaurant owned by two stylish New Yorkers, whose family apartment I adored in the September issue of Vogue last year, whose menu consists of old favorites; Grilled cheese, BLT's and Roast Chicken and who will be serving some of my favorite classic deserts...

A test run in October, a trip to New York with our kids and lastly perhaps a spectacular place for a little party..for the launch of Peek...Aren't You Curious in New York?

The Gift Closet Supplies

I remember first reading about this neat couple that re thought their lifestyle after having a child, moved and created a cool on line emporium...Three Potato Four has since become a little go to spot for great gifts, neat vintage kids stuff and a place for great ideas. 

After RSVP'ing to 3 Birthday parties yesterday, and realizing we were back on the Birthday party circuit now that the school year began, the idea of restocking the gift closet became a focus!

I have learned that a few great gifts, tucked away makes life a bit easier once the school year is in full swing. Interesting gifts, favorite books and sports stuff are always a winning combination..Now that the girls are a bit older, some stylish accessories and such will be added to the mix.

The other trick is to make sure you have the requisite wrapping supplies. 

My new find-Craft paper from U Line. Inexpensive and stylish this paper comes in sheets..so virtually anything can be wrapped in it...The kids can draw, write a note or decorate on it and we are good to go. Colorful, chic, artistic, personal and inexpensive...

The final touch-some simple twine AND these new little labels/tags from Three Potato Four

Try it ( perhaps with out the drawings ) for the next grown up gifts...

Back to School

A few weeks ago I found a great shop for gifts, and bookmarked some pages to come back to. 

For me, New Year resolutions happen twice a year-once in the fall and once in January. 

Less about a long list of things I am likely not going to do, but more about things, places and adventures I want to have. A quiet moment to reflect. 

One thing that usually helps, is feeling organized. Closet cleaning, getting organized with the school year schedule, taking care of pending stuff...This little notebook/diary from Present&Correct seems like the perfect way to stay organized AND keep all of my notes and inspiration in the same place!

Green Machine

 

I heart Topiaries. 

The perfect, simple design detail-bringing a bit of green and nature into any setting..

As summer light and flowers start to fade, a hint of green makes a world of difference

In our stores in Santa Monica and Corte Madera, we have giant animal topiaries ( Giraffes ) that are amazing...Kids see them from outside, and stare in awe. They are truly spectacular. 

In our home, some tall simple topiaries in our entrance are the perfect detail.

In my office, two small topiaries on my credenza add the perfect element of green without the weekly worry of fresh flowers. 

Loved this tear when I saw it..Very Edward Scissorhands