Christmas Gift Picks

I'm makin' my list ya'll. Here are a few initial wishes (even those that are out-of-budget) that are worth sharing.

Hot. Sexy. Lamp. How many lamps can you say that about? Allow me to introduce you to Mr. Whittier. His sweet silhouette will have you squeeling.  And his price tag will do the same. But if you use it for years and love it for years it might be worth it.  Yah-know-what-I-mean, hubby?

Jonahan Adler's Whittier Lamp - sexaaay

Michelle's 2012 Trellus Calendar doesn't make sense for my work environment (I need a close-up month-to-month calender I'll share later) but I love her work so much I would buy this just to frame the print! Not kidding. I'm considering it. 

2012 Trellus Calendar by Michelle Armas

This stylish, retro-inspired floor fan is much less expensive alternative to RH's Allaire Fan. This sucker (or blower, I suppose *ba-doom-ching*) would look much nicer than the chunky floor fan we currently have in our bedroom.

Living Accents Retro Metal Fan

Have you started making your list? What are you hoping Santa will bring you this year? Hope you had a great Thanksgiving!

Lonny's Nov/Dec Issue is Live (Holiday Time!)

At first glance, this issue isn't holiday-heavy.  So if you're not ready to ring in the bells you won't be annoyed. I'll enjoy it regardless... BUT, I will admit, am ready for all the Christmas celebration related to our Savior's birthday.

Happy Friday. Enjoy!  Visit Lonny's Nov/Dec 2011 issue here.

Pillow Updates

I haven't updated you about a few recent happy pillows in our home. Like some pillows I bought that have breathed life into our living room.  And pillows are important, yo. 

I luuurve turquoise. About as much as I love magenta.  And I've actually wanted some rich turquoise pillows for awhile but they've been hard to come by.  

I was super-excited to find some at Pier1 awhile back (three-or-so months ago?).  And then I found another precious addition at the very same store a month or so ago. I also adore oversized paisleys, so it wasn't a difficult choice (especially considering pillows are an easy return).

It's incredible how much happier I feel when I walk in the door because I bought a few pillows.  But then again, I've been holding out for the perfect turquoise pillows for awhile.  So maybe it's not so surprising? 

The only thing that's not so happy: the feathers have been coming out like crazy.  So I'm going to need some new inserts.

Talk to me. Are you a turquoise fan?  A pillow lovah?  Found any great new pillows recently? Where? SPILL!

Recap: Design*Sponge Book Signing in Birmingham

I mentioned on Monday that Grace Bonney of Design*Sponge held a book signing for her new book Design*Sponge at Home here in Birmingham. Kudos to Grace and her team (as well as the Books-A-Million crew) for putting on such a great event!  Ready for a quick recap for those of you who couldn't attend?

I showed up with a friend of mine a little early.  Perfect opportunity to play paparazzi. :)

Design*Sponge book signing in Birmingham, via Dwell & Tell

I whispered to my friend that it would be nice to get a pic with Grace, and we mozied our way towards the front. Right when I was about to ask for a photo they started the craft demo, which meant we didn't score the photo op, but we were in the prime location for to get some shots of the craft demo.  

via Dwell & Tell

Grace walked us through a project featured in the book where you take vintage plates and candleholders to create cake and cupcake stands. 

D*S book signing, via Dwell & Tell

Next, everyone lined up for the book signing (How the heck were we the sixth-or-so in line? I have no idea!  I think my friend was good luck...), and I awkwardly juggled my book, huge camera, lens cap, gi-normous handbag (I didn't realize it was the size of a small suitcase when I purchased it online)...

Design*Sponge book signing, via Dwell & Tell

...and prepped myself to take a great pic with Grace. This was was up there in the scrapbook photo-ops.

But for whatever reason, I took one of the worst photos of my life. As did my friend. We're talking bad lighting, bad angle, awkward placement of props (book) - the whole nine yards. I'm not exaggerating, you guys. We laughed so hard when we sat down to look at them we were literally crying.

(Imagine Photo of 
me + Grace here)

On the bright side, it was such a pleasure chatting with her for a second. She took her time with everyone in line and has a very warm, charismatic personality.

Design*Sponge book signing in Birmingham, via Dwell & Tell

*Update: Check out the photos taken by The White Rabbit Studios here. I ended up with a shot with her after all. :)

Design*Sponge at Home book signing in Birmingham - Grace & Me - via White Rabbit Design Studios

We hung out and enjoyed the yummy drinks while flipping through the book.

It's a great read and a wonderful addition to your decorating library.  Lots of inspiration for DIY projects and creating beautiful spaces, and a great way to spend a few Sunday afternoons.

Do you have a copy?  What do you think?