Saturday, July 9, 2011

Javier Bardem + Penelope Cruz | Perfect Together






Baby Leo born late January 2011. I am so happy these two got together and now have a family.

Laundry Flapping in The Wind

I made a fresh batch of my homemade laundry detergent this morning and my first load is flapping in the breeze getting bleached by the sun. I grated my Octagon soap with my micro-plane grater and it worked much better than the box grater I normally use though it took longer. My second load has been sorted and is ready for my front-loading washer. I honestly can't remember the last time I used my dryer. Enjoy the weekend and I'll see you a little later. xo

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Blessings, Morning Glory

 




Meramec River (Missouri), photo by Robert Charity. Click on the link to see more studding images by this talented photographer.

Thursday, July 7, 2011

Naomi Watts | Screen Test


Lynn Hirschberg of The New York Times Style Magazine talks to the actress Naomi Watts. I love her and all of her films. Read more here.

My Chosen Bedroom for Tonight

This is where I've decided to sleep tonight. I love that recessed bookcase wall behind the bed. A side table might be nice since I can't sleep without a stainless steel water bottle full of ice water within arm's reach in the summer. Especially if the windows are open and the central air is turned off. I broke down and turned it on today. I had to close all of my windows while the gutters were being cleaned and it's really hot outside. But as you all know I don't like being sealed inside. So before I jump in this big white bed, I'll throw open the windows. Goodnight. See you in the morning. xo

Beautiful Country Dirt Road

Have you noticed how seldom you see a good country dirt road these days? I can't even remember the last time I created a cloud of red dust while driving down a great one like this. ©Junga

Decorating with Diamonds

This photograph reminds me of the gray and white diamonds I painted on the country-kitchen floor of my previous home.

A Classic Home Renovation or Transformation

I can think of nothing quite as charming as an older home, surrounded by equally-classic architecture, on a quiet tree-lined street. Oftentimes, people shy away from buying these houses, in spite of the fact that they're located in established neighborhoods, because their interiors aren't as bright or open as those of newer homes; or, perhaps, potential buyers feel overwhelmed by the amount of work required to update the existing structure. Prior to the renovation, this house was hidden behind a wall of overgrown shrubbery. The team cleaned up the landscape, painted the dull red brick a bright white, installed a new slate roof with dormers, and added or replaced shutters as necessary.


 
When I first glanced at this wonderful article I did not even realize that this red brick house behind giant overgrown shrubs was the BEFORE shot of this amazing transformation. The new owners must be so happy that they were able to see the possibilities in saving this grand old home instead of tearing it down. More photos and complete article here.

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

Crested Black Macaque Snaps Self-Portrait | Maybe

I saw this story on the news last night. What do you think? Real or fake self-portrait of a Crested Black Macaque taken with a camera the primate snatched from award-winning photographer David Slater in Indonesia? Wait until you see the photo showing a toothy smile before you decide. Read more...

Vines Gone Wild

House to owner, "Help me. I can't breathe." This is what happens when you relax your vine clipping guard.

Super Outdoor Showers

I really like these outdoor showers with the industrial-style hardware from Sonoma Forge. Click around and find your favorites.

 

Great Garden Design

This is such an inspiring landscape design, isn't it? And impossible too. via Pinterest

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Best Swinging Bench Ever

LOVE this cottage swing, don't you?

Little Girl Befriends Baby Orangutan

I fell in love with this photo that I kept seeing here and there on the internet and finally found the story behind this adorable little girl and her new orangutan friend. Read more. Don't you love the picture of them having a tea party? I hope she is able to remember this event when she gets older. Another article here and here.

Piggy is Back for A Week-long Visit | Yay


Webster and I picked up The Pig last night. We've already been for two walks and both of the dogs are napping right now. I missed my weekly office meeting but want to go to a couple of open house tours. See you later. Aren't you glad to see Piggy again? He loves the balcony.