Summa Summa Summatime! 5 Amazon Finds to Rock Your Summer!

These are my top 5 favorite summer finds on Amazon, guaranteed to enhance your summer experience with style and functionality. Each item is handpicked to bring joy and convenience, whether you're lounging by the pool, enjoying a barbecue, or exploring the great outdoors!

1. How cute is this super powerful handheld fan? Chill out instantly with this fully rechargeable companion, ideal for sporting events and beyond! $17.79 on Amazon

2. Encanted Flames! Check out these cool enchanted flames! They enhance outdoor fires with vibrant, changing colors, transforming any ordinary fire into a magical experience. Simply toss these self-contained packets into the fire for a mess-free way to enjoy a rainbow of colors. No chemicals, powders, or messy cleanup—just instant fun for all ages around the campfire! Only $9.99 on Amazon!

3. These Amazing Floating Pool Lights! Check out these amazing floating pool lights from LOFTEK! Their excellent waterproof design allows them to float effortlessly, making them perfect for poolside, garden paths, decks, and more. With vibrant, customizable RGB colors and multiple lighting modes, including fade, smooth, flash, and strobe, they create a tranquil ambiance that's perfect for night lights, mood lighting, or outdoor decorations. Ideal for various occasions like meditation, parties, weddings, and bars, these lights are crafted from high-quality materials with a robust waterproof seal! Starting at $25.99 on Amazon!

4. A Giant Flamingo Raft! Imagine the ultimate summer relaxation: the amazing Giant Flamingo Raft! This colossal floating island measures a spacious 10ft x 10.5ft x 6ft (L x W x H), offering ample room for 4-6 adults to lounge comfortably on the water with friends and family. Equipped with 6 built-in cup holders, it ensures endless fun and convenience during your water parties and gatherings! $159.99 on Amazon

5. This Inflatable Couch for the Ultimate Chill Sesh. Take your air hammock anywhere you roam—ideal for hikers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Available in 15 distinctive patterns, this inflatable lounger ensures you never settle for boring patio or camping chairs again. Chillbo's lounge chair is a must-have addition to your camping gear and beach gadgets, providing comfort and style wherever you go. Elastic anchor loops secure your outdoor hammock in windy conditions, while large side pockets keep your essentials like books, glasses, snacks, and chilled beverages close at hand! Only $36.99 on Amazon!

Unveiling the Quirky Side of the Victorian Era: Fun Facts You Didn't Know

Step back in time to the Victorian era, a period of grandeur, innovation, and strict social norms. While the Victorian era is often associated with its formalities and rigid etiquette, there's a quirky and amusing side to this fascinating period in history. Join us as we uncover some fun and unexpected facts about the Victorian era!

1. **Macabre Mourning Jewelry**: Mourning jewelry was a popular trend during the Victorian era, serving as a tangible reminder of lost loved ones. However, it wasn't just limited to somber black pieces. In a macabre twist, some mourning jewelry featured locks of hair from the deceased woven into intricate designs. Talk about keeping memories close to the heart!

Image Source: Pinterest

2. **Victorian Hobbies: Taxidermy and Fern Collecting**: While leisure activities in the Victorian era may seem quaint by today's standards, they were anything but dull. Taxidermy became a popular pastime, with enthusiasts preserving and displaying their own creations as a form of artistic expression. Meanwhile, fern collecting, known as "pteridomania," captured the imagination of Victorians, who were drawn to the intricate beauty of these ancient plants.

3. **Victorian Spiritualism and Seances**: The Victorian era was a time of great curiosity about the supernatural and the afterlife. Spiritualism gained popularity, with many Victorians attending seances in the hopes of communicating with the spirits of the deceased. Mediums and clairvoyants captivated audiences with their mysterious abilities, blurring the lines between science and the supernatural.

4. **Floral Fan Language**: Forget emojis – in the Victorian era, people communicated their feelings using the language of flowers, known as floriography. Each flower held a specific meaning, allowing individuals to express sentiments without uttering a single word. Whether it was a bouquet of roses to convey love or a sprig of lavender for luck, floral arrangements became a form of silent communication.

5. **Victorian Fads: Crazy for Crinoline and Mustache Cups**: Fashion fads in the Victorian era could be both extravagant and bizarre. Crinoline, a hoop skirt made of stiffened fabric, reached enormous proportions at its peak, turning women into walking works of art. Meanwhile, mustache cups became a practical solution for gentlemen looking to enjoy a cup of tea without getting their facial hair wet – a must-have accessory for any well-groomed Victorian gentleman.

6. **The Hidden Language of Fans**: Fans weren't just a fashionable accessory in the Victorian era – they were also a means of non-verbal communication. From fluttering a fan to convey flirtation to snapping it shut to signal dismissal, the language of fans allowed Victorians to express their thoughts and feelings discreetly in social settings.

7. **Victorian Pet Portraits**: The Victorians had a penchant for pampering their pets, often treating them as cherished members of the family. Pet portraiture became a popular trend, with artists capturing the likeness of beloved dogs, cats, and even parrots in elaborate paintings. These portraits served as a testament to the deep affection Victorians had for their furry companions.

The Victorian era may have been characterized by strict social conventions, but it was also a time of creativity, curiosity, and eccentricity. These fun and quirky facts offer a delightful glimpse into the colorful tapestry of Victorian life, reminding us that even in the most formal of times, there's always room for a bit of whimsy and wonder!

Life Hacks Worth Trying: Simple Solutions for Everyday Challenges!

Life can sometimes feel like a whirlwind of tasks, responsibilities, and unexpected obstacles. Fortunately, there are countless ingenious shortcuts and clever tricks known as "life hacks" that can help streamline our daily routines and make life a little bit easier. From time-saving techniques to creative solutions for common problems, here are some life hacks worth trying:

1. **Use a Binder Clip to Organize Cables**: Tired of tangled cords cluttering your desk or workspace? Try using binder clips to keep your cables neatly organized. Simply attach a binder clip to the edge of your desk and thread your cables through the metal loops. This simple trick will prevent your cords from slipping to the floor and make it easy to identify and access the one you need.

2. **Freeze Leftover Coffee in Ice Cube Trays**: If you often find yourself with leftover coffee that you hate to waste, try freezing it in ice cube trays. These coffee ice cubes are perfect for adding a burst of flavor to iced coffee or for cooling down hot coffee without diluting it with regular ice cubes. Plus, they're a great way to avoid the disappointment of watered-down coffee on a hot day.

3. **Use a Clothespin to Hold Nail While Hammering**: Hammering nails into hard surfaces can be a frustrating task, especially if you accidentally hit your fingers in the process. To avoid this common mishap, try using a clothespin to hold the nail in place while you hammer. Simply clamp the clothespin onto the nail, leaving enough space to hold onto, and hammer away without worrying about injuring your fingers.

4. **Store Bed Sheets Inside Pillowcases**: Keeping your linen closet organized can be a challenge, especially when it comes to storing bulky items like bed sheets. A simple solution is to fold your fitted sheet, flat sheet, and pillowcases together and then store them inside one of the matching pillowcases. This not only saves space but also makes it easy to grab a complete set of sheets when you need them.

5. **Use a Rubber Band to Open Stubborn Jar Lids**: Struggling to open a stubborn jar lid? Wrap a rubber band around the lid for extra grip and leverage. The rubber band provides traction and makes it easier to twist off the lid without slipping or straining your hands. It's a quick and effective way to tackle a common kitchen dilemma.

6. **Turn a Dustpan into a Makeshift Funnel**: Need to transfer dry ingredients or small objects into a container without making a mess? Use a dustpan as a makeshift funnel! Simply place the dustpan over the opening of the container and pour your ingredients or objects into the wide end of the dustpan. The narrow spout will direct the contents into the container with minimal spillage.

7. **Wrap Rubber Bands Around Paint Cans for Drip-Free Pouring**: Painting a room can be a messy job, especially when it comes to pouring paint from a can. To prevent drips and spills, wrap a few rubber bands around the top of the paint can, spanning across the opening. These rubber bands will catch excess paint as you pour, allowing for a cleaner and more controlled application.

Life hacks like these can help simplify your daily routines, save time and energy, and make mundane tasks more manageable. So why not give them a try and see how they can make a difference in your life? After all, sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective!

7 Random Facts Everyone Should Know

Have you ever found yourself in a conversation and wished you had an interesting tidbit of knowledge to share? Well, look no further! We've compiled a list of seven random facts that are sure to impress your friends and spark some fascinating discussions. From quirky historical anecdotes to mind-blowing scientific discoveries, these facts are guaranteed to add a dash of intrigue to your day!

1. The Eiffel Tower Can Grow Taller in Summer: Yes, you read that right! Due to thermal expansion, the iconic Eiffel Tower can grow up to 6 inches taller during the heat of summer. As the iron structure absorbs heat from the sun, its molecules expand, causing the tower to stretch ever so slightly. So next time you're admiring the majestic landmark, remember that it's reaching new heights in more ways than one!

2. Bananas Are Berries, But Strawberries Aren't: Despite their name, bananas are technically classified as berries, while strawberries are not. In botanical terms, a berry is defined as a fruit produced from a single ovary with seeds embedded in the flesh. Since bananas meet this criteria, they fall under the berry category. On the other hand, strawberries are considered aggregate fruits, as they develop from multiple ovaries on a single flower. Who knew fruit taxonomy could be so intriguing?

3. Honey Never Spoils: Archaeologists have discovered pots of honey in ancient Egyptian tombs that are over 3,000 years old and still perfectly edible! Honey's unique chemical composition, low moisture content, and acidic pH create an inhospitable environment for bacteria and microorganisms, preventing it from spoiling. So go ahead and indulge in that jar of honey – it's the ultimate pantry staple with an indefinite shelf life.

4. The Moon Has Moonquakes: While earthquakes are a well-known phenomenon here on Earth, did you know that the moon experiences its own version of seismic activity known as moonquakes? These tremors are caused by the gravitational forces exerted by Earth and the cooling and contraction of the moon's interior. Unlike Earthquakes, which can last for minutes, moonquakes can persist for several hours due to the moon's lack of atmosphere to dampen the vibrations. It's a lunar phenomenon that's truly out of this world!

5. The World's Longest Traffic Jam Lasted 12 Days: In August 2010, a traffic jam stretching over 62 miles occurred on a highway leading to Beijing, China, and lasted a staggering 12 days! The gridlock was caused by a combination of road construction, accidents, and an influx of vehicles heading to the capital city. Stranded drivers passed the time playing cards, sleeping in their cars, and forming impromptu communities along the highway. It's a testament to both human resilience and the power of patience in the face of adversity.

6. A Group of Pandas is Called an Embarrassment: While pandas may be adorable, their collective noun is rather unexpected – an embarrassment! This term originated from the 19th century when British zoos would refer to a group of pandas as an "embarrassment" due to the challenges of breeding and caring for these elusive bears in captivity. Today, the term endures as a whimsical reminder of the quirks of the English language and the delightful nature of pandas themselves.

7. Cleopatra Lived Closer to the Moon Landing Than to the Building of the Great Pyramid: Cleopatra VII, the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, famously lived from 69 BC to 30 BC. Surprisingly, she lived closer in time to the Apollo 11 moon landing in 1969 than to the construction of the Great Pyramid of Giza, which was completed around 2560 BC. This astonishing fact serves as a poignant reminder of the vastness of human history and the incredible achievements of civilization over millennia.

So there you have it – seven random facts to delight, intrigue, and inspire curiosity. Whether you're sharing them at a dinner party or pondering them during your daily commute, these nuggets of knowledge are sure to leave a lasting impression. After all, isn't life just a little more fascinating when you know a few random facts?

DESIGN CRAZE: TOP 7 UNUSUAL RESTAURANTS

When we go out to eat, we usually anticipate being comfortably seated in a warmly designed space filled with booths, chairs, and tables, while being served a meal we wouldn’t otherwise have the time or patience to cook for ourselves at home. It is not very often that going out to eat is a deeply memorable experience, but we can guarantee you that if you had your Filet Mignon at one of these restaurants, you would never forget it!

Design Craze: Top 7 Unusual Restaurants

1. W’Duck Toilet Restuarant, Portugal. Who needs conventional chairs and napkins, when you can dine on a toilet and wipe your face with toilet paper? This little restaurant located in a small port town in Portugal, is a tourist attraction, to say the least. With a Mediterranean inspired menu, the food has received surprisingly good reviews!

Image Source: Ifitshipitshere, Online.

2. O’Noir Restaurant. Montreal, Canada. Hence it’s name, what you see in this establishment is, well, black. Their theme is about dining in complete darkness so to enjoy the flavors of the food. This is the perfect place to have a blind date!

Image Source: Travel Spotcoolstuff, Online.

3. Mountain Bahenec Wellness Hotel, Czech Republic. It is definitely best to consider who you are going to attend this outing with. Hanging out in close proximity to your fellow diners in tubs full of beer-infused bath water, while enjoying a top-of-the-line beer should be a relaxing time, indeed! Did we mention you have your own tap?

Image Source: The Wonderous, Online.

4. Disaster Cafe.  Lloret de Mar, Spain. Though one of our greatest fears is an earthquake, the diners at this restaurant actually pay to experience one while they enjoy their meal. And not just a small one, either. Every diner experiences a (simulated) 7.8 level quake at some point while dining on a variety of different culinary cuisine. A word of advice: don’t wear your nicest attire; it is said that many drinks are spilled here.

Image Source: Republica Blog, Online.

5. Kayabukiya Tavern. Utsunomiya, Japan. The owners of this restaurant were sick of the turnover that comes with service staff in the restaurant industry. So, they trained monkeys instead. In between delivering your food, their monkeys jump around, sit on your head, and twirl in circles playfully. Live entertainment at its best! Watch the video:

Video Source: Youtube, Online.

6. Hajime Restaurant. Bangkok, Thailand. The menu of this restaurant specializing in Japanese delicacies, has a twist. Your meal will be brought to you by robots. That’s right, robots! The owner, Lapassarad Thanaphant invested over a million dollars making her dream a reality. As if being served by robots wasn’t enough, they dance for your entertainment as well!

Image Source: Koolgrub, Online.

7. ‘S Baggers. Nurnberg, Germany. This restaurant is definitely innovative, to say the least. Diners are instructed to order their meals on touch screen computers provided at their table. Once prepared, they are send down a roller-coaster type device from the kitchen above to your table top!

CATHARTIC ART: True Feelings without Words

I absolutely adore spending a rainy afternoon in a local art gallery. I become swept into the emotions of each painting, each sculpture. I always end up leaving feeling refreshed and cathartic. 

Here are my top nine favorite works of cathartic art :

1. Banksy's Flower Girl. If you haven't watched "Exit Through the Giftshop," I have plans for you! This painter is incredibly mysterious.

2. Gwen Murphy, Shoe Fetish.  My sister and I have always said that everyone is like a different shoe. I believe her to be very "Ked-like," while she maintains that I am a wedged sandal. These sculptures speak to that. 

3. John Singer Sargeant. Mr And Mrs Isaac Newton Phelps Stokes, 1897.  I like that this painting was forseeing women's liberty so early on. The facial expressions of the subjects are just so true.

4. Jacques-Louis David - The Death of Marat. One of the most famous of powerful paintings, this image captures the true sorrow involved in losing a loved one.

5. Sad by Antonio Mora Diez. There is no real way to describe how this image makes me feel. However, on too many levels, I can relate.

6. Andrew Wyeth, Christina's World. I could spend hours just engulfed in the beauty of his work. There is something so beautifully haunting about this painting.

7. Symbiosis by Marta Orlowska. It is so profoundly true- we work symbiotically with the creatures in our lives. We provide them with love and care while they bring us a level of joy and comfort we would not otherwise recognize.

8. Kevin Sloan, Consequences of Hypnosis. The realism combined with playfulness and whimsy really captures me. His work is incredible. I have spent hours indulging in his art.

9. Francois Schuitten, Comic Art. My heart sunk when I saw this. I wanted to scream, "Don't do it!" while helplessly waiting for what is next. This image shows the true characteristics of cats and dogs- the feline sits unphased while the dog panics.

ALL ABOUT {PRESENT}ATION: 7 CREATIVE WAYS TO WRAP GIFTS

We typically put some thought into gift buying, pondering what the receiver may hope for, anticipating the look on their face as they open their presents from us. But, ironically, we don’t put a whole lot of thought into wrapping these special offerings.

Here are 7 Creative Ways to Wrap Gifts. Your receiver will relish in delight as you hand them a beautifully packaged endowment!

1. Old Photos On Paper. This is a simple statement that will be meaningful to the recipient. All you need is some old photos and a printer. Perfect for small gifts!

Image Source: Sweetpaulmag, Online.

2. Brown Paper Bag. There is something so timelessly classic about wrapping a gift in brown paper. It gives you a clean palette to work with, and you can add many decorative touches of your choice!

Image Source: Topinspired, Online.

3. Hamburger Wrap. Okay, so this one is a little over the top. But, I had to post it.There are suppliers of sesame seed bun and burger print paper! I’ll bet you could do this with regular paper in similar patterns. This is perfect for the occasion when you have to wrap a lot of gifts. You might as well make it funny!

Image Source: imgur, Online.

4. Crayon and Paper. This is the perfect way to wrap a gift for the creative person in your life. All you need is some plain white paper, and a basic set of crayons!

Image Source: Craftfoxes, Online.

5. Heart Cut-Out. This is such a clever idea! All you need is to wrap your gift twice- the outside layer with half-hearts cut and folded outwards. I’d recommend using a utility knife as opposed to scissors.

Image Source: DailyWT, Online

6. Word Search. Print out a word search of your choice online, with the keywords you would like to circle on your gift, according to the occasion. Use festive markers to circle, and viola! Your own creative touch.

Image Source: Notonthehighstreet, Online

7. Newspaper. Look through your old newspapers for a fun and interesting article, and use that as the theme of your wrapping paper. Since newspaper is a fairly neutral palette, you can add some touches of whimsy with ribbon, fresh pine, or decor of your choice!

Image Source: Blissfullycontentlife, Online.

OLD HOLLYWOOD: Stars in Candid Form

Okay, I will admit it. I sometimes find myself reading the latest, "US Weekly," or "People" magazine when in line at the grocery store. How they end up in my basket is beyond me!

Yesterday, I watched a documentary about Marilyn Monroe that was filled with old photos of her in candid form. This got me wondering what other stars from this era were like in their daily lives? So, I did my research and found my favorites.

Here Are My Top Ten Old Hollywood Candid Photos:

1. Betty Page.

2. Ella Fitzgerald and Marilyn Monroe.

3. Judy Garland.

4. Jackie Onassis.

5. Ingrid Bergman.

6. Lucille Ball.

7. Sophia Loren.

8. Elizabeth Taylor and James Dean.

9. Audrey Hepburn.

10. Patsy Cline.

ROAD TRIP: STEPPING BACK IN TIME in La Conner, Washington

One of my favorite past-times is to just get in the car and go, with no plans, no direction, and only the anticipation of what the day may bring forth. One of my favorite discoveries during one of these spontaneous road trips was the little town of La Conner, Washington.

This old mill town, established during the Victorian era, sits quietly on a canal, with tree lined streets full of beautiful old houses that appear to have remained the same since their birth in the late 1800′s. I have always had a fascination with the Victorian time period, so naturally, being in this little time warped town had me frolicking around like a kid in a candy store.

La Conner has a population of around 1000, and the town itself only covers a span of about a mile. It is easy to park your car and see the entire town on foot within less than an hour. There are cafes and shops, and many quaint little restaurants on the canal.

Located West of I-5, about 40 minutes North of Seattle, the drive to La Conner is as gorgeous and scenic as it gets. In the Spring, you wind through miles of colorful tulip fields, and old farmhouses with authentic, rustic barns. In the fall, you see pumpkin patches, surrounded by orange and red leaves covering the tree-lined rolling hills.

One of my favorite discoveries in La Conner was a place called Nasty Jack’s Antiques. This little diamond in the rough is full of old collectibles, furniture, clothes, and magazines. Since I was already feeling like I had taken a time machine back to the Victorian era, I found it suitable to wander through many rooms full of Victorian items.

Far in the back, there was an old hutch full of old magazines, dating back to the 1800′s. “The Ladies Home Journal,” a popular women’s magazine (still today), was fascinating to flip through and read. Especially the advertisements for fashion and household products in the 1800′s.

I found and purchased old  ”Life” and “Family Circle” Magazines from each member of my family’s birth month and year. These magazines have been great conversation pieces at birthdays and have made great gifts.  Within them, there are ads for popular products and interiors. It amazes me how many of the fashion and interior design styles are back in full circle.

One little known fact about La Conner is that Tom Robbins, author of many award winning novels, including “Even Cowgirls Get the Blues,”  which was later made into a movie, currently resides there. His house is distinctly different from all of the traditional Victorian homes. He re-faced an old San Francisco Palladian style Victorian into something more quirky and playful like himself.

A typical home in La Conner- beautiful Victorian.

Tom Robbin's Playful Exterior.

There are many reasons to see La Conner, Washington. These are just a few of my favorite memories there. If you ever get the itch to step back in time, this would be a great place to try. You will feel the overwhelming historical energy, as though you’ve been there before.

How I Was Inspired By a Simple Statement

 

Just like most people, I jot down my New Years Resolutions on New Year’s Day. However, I have found that for me personally, I tend to have a delayed start when it comes to moving forward with them. So, why, you ask, am I bringing this up? Because yesterday, my friends, is when I started mine. Just under two weeks late! It just took a little inspiration, is all.

This past Saturday, I decided to take a “me” day. I allowed myself to sleep in, watch old movies, and embrace the sheer invention of stretch-waisted pants. Taking a day like this can be challenging for me; I adore my job, so to step away from it for a few hours is a pursuit in itself. I read Kafka, ordered take-out, and gave myself a mud-mask facial.

In a moment of silence, it happened. I was inspired.  That spark of motivation. The sheer catalyst I have been waiting for to get moving on those goals of mine. I was scrolling through Pinterest, looking at “beautiful quotes” when I came across this image:

Just like that, I made up my mind. I want the “future me” to be grateful for a fit, healthy body. I am going to get in shape this year, and nothing can stop me! On Sunday afternoon, I laced up those running shoes that have been forgotten in the back of my closet, and hit the pavement.

It’s amazing how different your surroundings look when you allow yourself to be present. I live in the small waterfront town of Des Moines, Washington, on the outskirts of Seattle. It is a quaint little town with family-owned shops and restaurants overlooking a breathtaking view of the Puget Sound. While jogging the boardwalk, my total lack of being in shape was distracted by the rustic old houses, scenic beachfront, and crisp oceanic air. Rather than feeling like it was a chore, I embraced the moment and actually enjoyed it!  Instead of feeling exhausted, I was inspired to make this a way of life.

It amazes me that such a simple quote could have inspired me in such a way. There was just a profoundness to it that got me off of the sofa and out into the fresh air! The great motivation of this small quote brought me inspiration to look at other quotes, this time, by my favorite fashion icons.

Here are my Top Five Fashion Icon Quotes:

 ”Nothing is impossible, the word itself says, ‘I’m possible!’” – Audrey Hepburn

“We must never confuse elegance with snobbery.” -Yves Saint Laurent

“Success is achieved by those who don’t know that failure is inevitable.” – Coco Chanel

“Women often try to tame themselves as they get older, but the ones who look best are often a bit wilder.” -Miuccia Prada

“Imperfection is beauty, madness is genius, and it is better to be absolutely ridiculous than to be absolutely boring.” -Marilyn Monroe

NOSTALGIC INTERIORS: A GLIMPSE INTO THE PAST

When looking at old paintings and photographs, I often find myself looking past the person or subject in the photo, and into the background with hopes of getting a glimpse of what life was like during the time the picture was taken. More specifically, what people’s homes looked like.

I love how in old impressionistic paintings, interiors reminiscent of times past can be seen. I love looking through old black and white Victorian photographs that are candid and not staged. From old paintings to photos, our interiors leave lasting impressions, whether they are intentionally captured or not.

Here Are My Top 5 Authentic Interior Captures from the Past:

1. Jean Alaux.  ”Louis Vincent Palliere in His Room at the Villa Medici.” This painting is of the artist’s room, while staying at a hotel in the early 1800′s. In looking at this painting, you can see that there are many interior trends from that era that are still popular today. What a great example of timeless design.

2. Old Dormroom Photo, 1915. I found this old photograph of a dorm room to be fascinating. These three women figured out a way to capture their image in the mirror, while still being able to showcase their proudly decorated gem at Brown University.

3. 1930′s Kitchen. This beautiful photograph of Lucille Ball is reminiscent of the fully-tiled, frilly curtained kitchens of its time. Even this famous actress knew her gender-stereotyped place in the home during this era!

4. 1950′s Tupperware Party. Party on, ladies! This photo shows what the classic tupperware get-together looked like in action. In the background, you can see the lovely wall sconces that were oh-so-fashionable, and the natural stone fireplace look that had taken the nation by design storm.

5. 1980′s Family Dinner. This image may not mean anything to you, but when you look into the background, it most likely would if you lived in the 80′s. No, that is not a flat screen t.v. above the fireplace. Back in the “olden days,” framed art went above your mantle. The beautiful vertical plastic blinds paired with the brass chandelier screamed 80′s decor, if you ask me.

Blast from the Past: 80's Nostalgia!

Last night, a group of friends and I got on a Youtube kick, watching Stephanie Tanner from the hit 80's show "Full House," and her amazing dance routines! I remember as a kid, thinking she was the cat's pajamas. I seriously idolized her-- watching these videos was so truly nostalgic of my childhood.

Seeing these sparked an interest in 80's nostalgia for the group of us, which led us to watching hours of 80's commercials. It is amazing how times have changed. This morning, I thought it was only necessary to continue rediscovering the great memories of my adolescence. 

Here are my top 20 80's nostalgia picks (in no particular order):

1. Popples! Who wouldn't wanna roll around in that basket? I mean really.

2. Teeny Little Super Guy. The best part of Sesame Street!

3. Pound Puppies. Came with an adoption certificate!

4. Squeez-it! Only the lucky ones had this in their lunchbox.

5. L.A. Gear. The more socks and laces you had, the more popular you would be.

6. Viewmaster. The perfect 3d escape!

7. Dancing Flower. I so proudy presented this in my bedroom decor!

8. Refillable Pencils. Worthless if you lost one of the lead refills!

9. Cabbage Patch Kids. An 80's kid must-have. I remember writing on my sister's CPD's head when I was mad at her in permanent marker. haha!

10. Lite Brite! Hours of fun. I might just have to get one of these for myself now.

11. Gloworm. The cuddliest night light.

12. Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No-Good, Very Bad Day. "I went to bed with gum in my mouth and now there's gum in my hair."

13. Be Kind Please Rewind. The sticker future generations won't understand.

14. Speak and Spell. 80's Ipad.

15. McDonald's Packaging. Before being "green" was "in."

16. Iron Kids Bread. "The taste is really the best!"

17. Fashion! I'm pretty sure I had the outfit in the middle. 

18. 80's M&M's. Anyone else wonder what happened to the tan one?

19. Rainbow Brite everything. This would have been my dream room.

20. Kid Pix. Where my interior design passion began. On our Commodore-64 computer, I would design entire houses with this program! Who woulda thunk I'd end up as an Interior Designer now!

As an ADDED BONUS--- I thought it was only appropriate to give you a glimse of my 80's mullet. Yes, people... I had a mullet. Thanks mom and dad! 

INNOVATIVE ARCHITECTURE: SHIPPING CONTAINER BUILDINGS

I’ll never forget a former design client I was working with who was determined to place some shipping containers on his tenth floor penthouse roof to make extra rooms for himself. I remember thinking he must be crazy! Why on earth would he want this? Well, in doing my research, I came across an entire shipping container culture. Many people are building homes and commercial properties with these simple, rectangular boxes. So today, I am going to share some of my favorite shipping container architecture!

Here are my top five picks of shipping container buildings across the world:

1. Shipping Container Guest House. San Antonio, Texas. How cool would it be to spend a weekend with these folks? Your very own shipping container guest house? You could check that one off your bucket list. This little gem has its own bathroom, tons of windows, and a sleek, contemporary design.

2. Shipping Container City. Cholula, Mexico. This shipping container shopping center features restaurants and bars, galleries, residences, and stores! It is painted colorfully, and has an eclectic spunk to it. There are lounge areas with ping-pong tables and places to relax. On weekends there are live bands that showcase in the common areas as well!

3. Shipping Container Holiday House. New Zealand. This vacation home was designed to close into a perfectly sealed box. When in use, the walls come down, and there are pull-out beds, a patio, and windows in tact!

4. Oceanscope Scenic Observatory, Songdo New City, Incheon, South Korea. These containers were placed at fixed angles, providing different views of one of the most popular harbors in the city. This architectural delight attracts tourists from all over the world.

 5. Multi-Container House, Redondo Beach, California.This beachfront property is built with eight fabricated shipping containers. One of the coolest attributes to this home, is that one of the containers was converted into a swimming pool!

DIY Party: 5 CORKY CRAFTS!

When I was brainstorming a DIY topic for today, I stumbled across some awesome crafty things you can do with your leftover wine corks. These ideas are easy, fun, and useful, while adding character to your home!

DIY Party: 5 Corky Crafts!

1. Cork Coasters. When paired with a bottle of great wine, these make the perfect gift! Simply assemble the corks into a pattern, and glue (a hot glue gun works best). Wrap in pretty ribbon, and viola! A gift from the heart.

2. Corky Letter Wall Art. Using quick dry tacky glue, place your cork onto a cut-out of your desired letter. Once it dries, place in an antique frame (spray-painted white), and assemble on your wall. Shabby chic decor!

3. Cork Key Chain. All you need are looped-screws and key chain rings, and you’ve got yourself some great stocking stuffers!

4. Cork Place Holders. This little DIY is as easy as it gets, and will have your guests amused at your creativity. Simply cut the cork on one end (lengthwise) to give it a flat bottom, and score the other side for the name card. Using high-quality craft paper will give it a nice touch!

5. Wine Cork Bath Mat.  This craft takes a lot of corks, but will really give your bathroom space great character! Because cork naturally repels liquid, it dries easy while providing a cushion for your feet. Simply glue your corks together with tacky glue, let dry, and enjoy!

DIY Party: 5 THINGS YOU CAN MAKE WITH OLD MAGAZINES!

We all have it. That random pile of magazines lying around, creating clutter in our space. We are apprehensive about throwing them away; we might want to read them a second time, right? Well, we almost never do. So, what can we do with them? Do we toss them into the recycling bin? Or, can we recycle them in a more creative way? I choose the latter. Here are five crafty activities we can do with our old mags.

1. Old Magazine Foot Stool. Making one of these will allow you to keep those magazines you’re afraid to part with, while giving them a second chance at life. All you need is a serving tray, a stack of old mags, and a small throw pillow. Belt those babies together, and viola!  Not too shabby!

2. Gorgeous framed mirror. All this little craft takes is your clutter, some scissors, and an old framed mirror or picture frame! Cut the magazine into strips, roll them up and glue them down. I love this!

3. Magazine Envelopes. All you need are some plain envelopes, scissors, magazines, and glue. Gently un-glue and unfold the envelope until you get a square piece of paper. Glue that piece of paper to a page in a magazine, then cut around it. Re-assemble the envelope, and you got yourself the world’s best stationary! Write to an old friend!

4. Magazine Butterfly Chain. This DIY is as easy as they come! Simply cut your magazine into almond shapes. Then fold back and forth (like a fan) lengthwise. Pinch it in the middle and tie. Do small ones, and large ones (for the large wings and small wings) and tie them together. Then place on some twine, and hang. What a great party idea!

5. Magazine Waste Basket. This is perfect for a rainy day! Put on your favorite movie, and start snipping away. Once you have made strips, simply roll them up, and glue them into the shape of a waste basket. I love this!

Shut the Front Door: ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY GRAFFITI!

Unless it is done by a talented artist, graffiti can be an eyesore. When you think of graffiti, you probably picture a spray painted cluster of words, symbols, and drawings that have been placed where they shouldn’t be. But, in doing my research, I found a little DIY graffiti gem that I am excited to try!

Moss-Art Graffiti. Did you know that moss contains spores that grow easily, can spread, and withstand harsh conditions? Well, I didn’t until now. Green Graffiti, made with moss, has taken the nation by storm, and I feel like I’ve been living under a rock for not knowing about it.

So, how do you make this concoction? With just moss, sugar, buttermilk, and gardening gel. Blend it together, and you’ve got yourself hours of entertainment! Here is a tutoral on how:

 Here are my three favorite green graffiti masterpieces:

1. Represent Your Family Name. How cool would this be to have on the side of your house? Many of these artists use stencils to get a clean, streamlined look.

2. Geometric Pattern to Dress Up An Otherwise Uninteresting Wall. By taping off the pattern, then applying the solution, this landscape architect created a gorgeous design masterpiece!

3. Bring A Dead Car Back to Life. Moss artist, Edina Tokodi took moss graffiti to a whole new level. By adding grass seed to the moss spores, this sad little Beetle got a rebirth.

WOAH! 3 AWESOMELY UNIQUE HOUSES

We all aspire to live the dream.  We go about our daily lives, keeping up with the Jones’, in a constant state of redundancy.  We live in our commonplace homes, with right angles and two-by-fours.  We desire constancy, and prefer predictability.  Or do we?  There are a handful of people who have decided against the norm.  At least when it comes to their living quarters, that is. They prefer to live in spaces that are uniquely theirs.  Here are my favorite three awesomely unique houses:

1. House NA, Japan.

The House NA, designed by architect, Suo Fujimoto, is made almost entirely of glass.  His whole idea behind this concept was to experiment with what defines a house.  He is known for his designs with letting in light, and took his niche to a whole new level!

2. Bubble House. Tourrettes-sur-Loup, France.

This crazy looking house is still a work in progress, even after 35 years! It has become a historic monument, designed by Hungarian architect, Antti Lovag.  He built this house full of windows facing the volcanic Côte d’Azur landscape and the beautiful Mediterranean.

3. Space House. Signal Mountain, Tennessee.

This space-age style home is tucked away in the hills of Tennessee.  Built by architect, Curtis King and his sons in the 1970′s, inspired by the science fiction movement of its time.  It is currently up for sale, with the owner stating that the price is, “whatever the public is willing to pay.”

Beat the Heat: Clever Cool Down Tricks You'll Love!

It's that time of year again! Woo-ee! It is hot! It definitely doesn't help that the free-ons in my car decided to die, so I get to drive to and from work in a 100 plus degree car-- go figure!

On that note, I thought it only made sense to write about some clever cool-down tricks I have found and tried- only to realize they are fantastic!

Here are my Top Six Summer Cool Down Tricks:

1. Frozen Grape Ice Cubes. I love a refreshing glass of white wine in the summertime- and what a wonderful way to keep it cool! The best part- you get a treat at the end, and some vitamins too!

2. Aloe Vera Ice Cubes. Living in Seattle, I tend to worship any Vitamin D I can get! The unfortunate part is that this usually leads to sunburn. This has been a hack I have used for years- I love the cooling effect, while it's helping my skin to heal!

3. Homemade Air Conditioner. Yes! It works! Just a styrofoam cooler, some cutouts, pipe and a fan. Viola!

4. Homemade Sprinkler. This is one of the easiest, but fun hacks I have tried on a hot day. It is perfect for when you are basking in the sun and need a quick cool-me-down!

5. Noodle Sprinkler. Nuff Said!

6. Freezer Pillows. Just take your favorite pillow and freeze it for 15 minutes before you hit the hay. Cooling your head down will cool down the rest of your body. Nighty night!

INTERIOR DESIGN: Coastal Love

There is something so beautiful about beach inspired decor. While I have not ever personally indulged in this style, I have a true love for it. Maybe in my next place! Here are my top seven beachy inspired spaces!

1. Pelican Focal Point.

2. Fresh and Bright.

3. Coastal Kitchen.

4. Bathroom Bliss.

5. Sunny Chic.

6. Beach Smart.

7. Coastal Nursery.