Outdoor Living Lagniappe

Outdoor living lagniappe hints and inside information helps to start the season with a clean slate.

outdoor-spaces-kitchen-patio-poolside

Domaine

Two outdoor living features close together in postings support what most of us know to be the case when it comes to good subject content- too much of a good thing is a great thing when it comes to summertime outdoor living lagniappe.

lagniappe-text

[ lan-yap, lan-yap ]

Louisiana French, from Spanish la ñapa

:something given as a bonus or extra gift; by way of compliment or for good measure.

outdoor-space-Austin-Abode

Luxe Interiors + Design – Photography by Lisa Romerein

Outdoor furniture, decor accents and the like attract dirt, dust, pollen, creepy crawlers, and garden variety grime over the course of winter and early spring.

It’s just an outdoor living lagniappe fact that outdoor spaces and places demand attention at the beginning of the fun in the sun season.

outdoor living lagniappe

Lincoln Brooks

Outdoor Life is Dirty So Let’s Clean It Up

Give your outdoor oasis a look see through the lens of polish and refresh.

Clean what pieces will greatly benefit from a brush-sweep-soap session, and assess the situation of items not so worthy.

Clear the deck so to speak of debris, replace rotten/rotting/missing boards, secure loose ones, nail down pop ups, and sand down signs of splinter or potential problem areas (ouch!).

patio-ideas-green-white-outdoor-cushions

Good Housekeeping – Photography by Christopher Baker

Do you refresh or has the time come to replace outdoor furniture, umbrellas, pillows, and cushions?

When it comes to the decision to refresh or replace, weigh initial cost and difficulty in replacing item against budget friendly-ample retail availability.

Aluminum Market Patio Umbrella in Navy Blue Features UV Resistant

Aluminum Market Patio Umbrella in Navy Blue Features UV Resistant

Outdoor Cushion Cleanser

Ingredients

1 Tablespoon dish detergent

¼ cup Borax

Directions

Add dish detergent and Borax to a bucket of water. Dip a soft bristle brush into the cleaning solution and proceed to scrub cushion in a circular motion cleaning the entire surface.

Allow at least five minutes for the cleaning solution to penetrate the cushion.

Using a garden hose, rinse the cushion thoroughly in order to remove residual cleanser.

You’ll want to use an old towel for the next step. Pat the cushion with the towel in order to absorb as much of water as possible. Prop the cushion(s) upright in a sunny spot and allow to air-dry until completely dry.

outdoor space on water Palm Beach Florida

Luxe Interiors + Design – Photography by Jessica Glynn

In all things outdoor oasis summer spaces, keep it summer simple.

Mediterranean herbs

Mediterranean Herbs

Vegetable and herb gardens unite and produce- it’s your season to be in the  spotlight and on the patio dining table in seasonal cocktails, dishes, and salads.

Garden Sun Tea

Garden Sun Tea Recipe from Must Love Herbs

Garden Sun Tea

Ingredients

5  Black Tea Bags

Approximately 1 cup Fresh fruit

A Few Sprigs of Garden Herbs (Lemon balm, Basil, Rosemary, Thyme, Bee Balm, Sage, Mint, etc.)

Filtered water

Honey

Ice

Directions

Add tea bags, fruit, and herbs to your half gallon container. Cover contents and fill jar with filtered water.  Seal the jar tightly and set it out in the sun for 4-5 hours.  Once the tea is finished steeping add honey to taste while it’s still warm.  Strain and serve over ice.

Store any leftovers in the fridge.

Please note, make sure to make Sun Tea on a very warm day (85° plus is what I use). Also, make sure you’re using a good filtered water. You don’t want bacteria growing in your sun tea… yuck! You can swap out the honey for flavored simple syrups!

-Must Love Herbs

acrylic-tumblers-green-clear

Better Homes & Gardens Acrylic Ribbed Tall Tumblers

basket-of-fresh-mint

From full-on rows of growing goodness to a patio container garden, fresh is best.

fresh-herbs-garden

Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash

Decorative outdoor planters give good outdoor living it up visual zest and appeal.

orange-tree-in-planter-tabletop

One Kings Lane

outdoor-planter-german-shepherd-feet

If your existing plants have beautifully weathered winter simply refresh by adding a fresh top layer of mulch.

flowers-in-planter

House Beautiful – Photography by Harperley Hall

Saw this on social media and boy, does it apply.

mosquitos-like-your-post (1)

Certain herbs and plants naturally repel mosquitoes while looking and smelling so summer good.

lavender-pink-flowers

Photo by Markus Spiske

Here’s my favorites:

Lavender

Lemon Balm

Peppermint

Catnip

Mint

Marigolds

Make sure to empty standing water from planters and containers to eliminate attracting mosquitoes.

fan-stainless

Photo by Yoris Yunanda 

Beat the summer heat and mosquitoes by setting up fans.

pouring-glass-of-wine

 Image by Freepik

There’s something so delicious about the combination of a warm evening and a cold summer salad.

garden-salad-spring-fork

Summer salad season exemplifies the crisp, the chill, and the complement of garden tomatoes topped with a dollop of mayonnaise, fresh asparagus spears spritzed with lemon and sea salt, and vinegar marinated cucumber slices.

salad-paint-colors

Good lighting lights the outdoor livin’ it up night setting a relaxing, inviting, and aesthetically pleasing backyard bistro scene.

string-lighting-chandelier-patio

Photo by Vitor Monthay 

Deck out the deck, patio, and backyard spaces with chic outdoor living it up accent lighting.

2-Pack-LED-Vintage-Lantern-Battery-Operated-Flickering-Flame-Hanging-Lanterns

2 Pack LED Vintage Lantern Battery Operated Flickering Flame Lanterns

Candle filled glass jars and holders hanging around, twinkle string lights wrapped tree trunks and branches, tabletop lamps or paper lanterns- all super ideas!

hanging-votive-filled-with-flameless-candles

One Kings Lane

woven-solar-pathway-light

Woven Solar Pathway Light

TIKI-tabletop-lantern

Large Table Top Studded Glass Oil Lamp 

TIKI-large-lantern

Glass Tabletop Torch Clear – TIKI

blown-glass-beaded-rope

Lit Coastal Objects

Lit Coastal Objects

DALA Lounge Chair

DALA Lounge Chair

Iron chandeliers purchased at auction have become outdoor candle chandeliers.

iron-candle-chandelier1 (1)

Votive candles with battery operated LED versions in flicker fabulous mode replaced standard votives, and the look and the ease of operation confirms its patio practicality.

LED-flicker-votives

Simple is always a welcome guest at any outdoor gathering. Nothing is more simple, and might I add simply elegant, as a glass container filled with string/fairy lights.

string-fairy-lights-in jar-at-night

Photo by Abijith K on Unsplash

Regarding design and decorating, when I love and appreciate the look of a space I interpret the core design style influence and fashion to my own taste in the style of the original.

In the style of the French tradition, an apéro, short for apéritif, is the planned or spontaneous pre mealtime custom of cocktails and converse with the inclusion of savory bites.

savory-cheese-pecans-figs-garlic

Photo by Jez Timms on Unsplash

Summer evenings seem tailor-made for an in the style of apéro featuring light bites and tasty beverages to enhance the idea of relaxing and connecting.

Click on the link below photos for recipes.

light-bites-graphic

tomato-recipes-saltines-with-basil-mayo

Country Living- Photography by Becky Luigart-Stayner

Easy plan, prep, and presentation begins with super easy items picked up at your local grocery store in taste and flavor combinations light yet flavor packed.

summer-fruits-charcuterie-board

May I suggest:

Hummus

Veggie Strips

Grapes

Cherries

Melons

Peaches

Plums

Berries

Cherry tomatoes

Dolly Parton Acacia Wood Butterfly Serving Tray

Dolly Parton Acacia Wood Butterfly Serving Tray

From the Dolly Parton line of products, this butterfly serving tray is an in season serving tray gotta have for crackers, cheeses and chips.

Fresh Pineapple Salsa with Sesame Tortilla Chips

Fresh Pineapple Salsa with Sesame Tortilla Chips

summer-salads-graphic

The Casa Wedge Salad

Casa Wedge Salad Recipe

Creole Shrimp Caesar Salad with Cheesy Croutons

Creole Shrimp Caesar Salad with Cheesy Croutons Recipe

20-Minute Burrata Salad with Stone Fruit and Asparagus

20-Minute Burrata Salad with Stone Fruit and Asparagus Recipe

main-course-graphic

Shrimp Ceviche

Easy Shrimp Ceviche Recipe

BBQ Chicken Wings

BBQ Chicken Wings Recipe

Grilled-Pizza

Grilled Pizza

sweet-summer-sweets-graphic

blueberries-mangos

Tropical Fruit Salad

Ingredients

2 cans tropical fruit, drained

1 can pear halves, drained

1 pint fresh blueberries

juice of one(1) lemon

1 large ripe avocado, halved and cut into slices

1 small container plain Greek yogurt

2 Tablespoons honey

black pepper

Directions

In a mixing bowl, toss together canned fruit with juice of one lemon. Cover and chill 1 hour.  Add two Tablespoons of honey to a small container of Greek yogurt and you’ve got the dressing.

Garnish with avocado slices, yogurt dressing and a fine dusting of black pepper.

Lemon Ice

Lemon Ice Recipe

Pick up a luscious lemon layer cake and proceed to sweetly impress with the addition of fresh blueberries and lemon slices topping it all of with a generous tablespoon of lemon curd and/or whipped topping.

luscious-lemon-cake

Sweet summer s’mores because who doesn’t crave s’more sweet moments.

outdoor-living-lagniappe

Architectural Digest – Photography by Amy Neunsinger

Spending time outdoors is a big part of summer fun, making it easy to understand why outdoor living spaces have become extensions of the life lived within our home- a retreat of heart and home.

Consider this summertime outdoor living lagniappe hints and inside information a little something extra for your summertime let’s patio times.

Darleen-signature-love

Show & Tell

Summer Scenes to Come

Summer scenes are coming into focus.

Memorial Day weekend kicks off the unofficial start of the summer season, and with that comes “we’ve been having fun all summer long” activities associated with fun in the sun times.

summer scenes

Shopping farmers markets and strolling American flag lined main streets for treats and treasures goes with the summertime territory.

fresh-tomatoes-in-basket-summer

Ceramic Berry Colander - Yellow Floral

 Ceramic Berry Colander – Yellow Floral

I’m sure I’d be amazed if I realized the amount of hours Dave the Builder and I spent together early morning and late afternoon porchin’.

summer-porch-wicker-chairs-green-shutters

Southern Living Magazine
Photography by Van Chaplin, Laurey W. Glenn, John O’Hagan

Perfect lighting scenario is the one nature supplies.

summer-evening-curb-appeal

John Kraemer & Sons, Inc.

Summer offers pretty pastel flowers in pitchers, creamers, jars or even cans inspiration.

alstroemeria-pink-blue-white-vase

Victoria Magazine

In season blooms here today and gone tomorrow spark buzz and demand.

bee-sunflower

peonies-in-vase-pink-tray

Pinterest

Linen Throw Pillow

Warm breezes in May remind me of a favorite summer scene set in a small North Louisiana town.

spring-clothesline

Country Living Magazine – Brent Darby Photography

Included in this forever memory is cross-stitch pillowcases, crisp cotton sheets fresh from the clothesline, a vintage chenille bedspread, and a bedside window raised just enough to allow the morning breeze to fill the room with the scent of African violets.

drive-in-theatre-Coca-Cola-sign

Summer will always be hot, delightful, and golden.

drink-coca-cola-red-sign

Cold drinks and cool creeks right this way.

spring-creek

Texan family members refer to any and all soft drinks as cold drinks.

Tennessean family members refer to any and all soft drinks as a col cola. Not cold cola or coca-cola, but a truncated version of the two.

It’s true what you’ve heard; most Southerners do in fact refer to any and all brands of carbonated drinks as Coke.

Classic Coca-Cola in bottle

Photography by Artem Beliaikin

Regardless of what you call it, Coke is summer in a glass, bottle or can.

backyard-picnic-Martha-Stewart-photo-Pernille-Loof

Martha Stewart

Speaking of Martha Stewart- salute to 81 years young looking summer chic gorgeous on the cover of Sports Illustrated 2023 Swimsuit issue.

Reed-Bell-Drive-In

Thin patty grilled hamburgers and frosted mug root beers from Reed & Bell Drive-In was the summertime treat and the taste of my childhood.

We always parked and walked up to the counter window to place our order, and our mother would indulge my brother and me by letting us sit in the wooden school desks painted in primary colors of red, yellow, and blue situated under the shaded overhang.

Sipping on an arctic cold frosted root beer while waiting for our hamburgers to cook and listening to the hum of the fans overhead rated summer fantastic.

In our summer travels down the highways, interstates, farm-to-market, and backroads less traveled by, wonderment and nostalgia ride shotgun.

old-gas-pumps-highway (1)

Points of interest past and present fill mile after mile with sights appreciated, underrated, and outdated.

Beauty is in the eye and heart of the beholder, the mind and memories of the observer.

motor-inn-motel-sign

Summer’s big bang theory proves we’re all big kids at heart.

fireworks-summer-night

Photography by Zuza Gałczyńska on Unsplash

Hold on, summer fans. The ride is just beginning.

Darleen-signature-love

Show & Tell

Outdoor Living Decor

Life styled for outdoor living decor meets the needs and desires of those ready to take the party outside.

outdoor living decor

Lula & Georgia

We’ve covered the front-of-the-house curb appeal, now let’s take the party to the patio-porch-terrace-balcony-deck.

outdoor-living-space-garden-backyard

Country Living- Photography by Annie Schlechter

patio-table-courtyard

Luxe – Photography by Eric Piasecki

Grillin’ and chillin’ outdoor living is concept design with attitude requirements.

outdoor-living-terrace-patio

Elle Decor – Photography by Joshua McHugh

Creating a space around an attitude of relaxation and unwinding at home requires outdoor living features and accessories tailor-made to suit your lifestyle.

southern-living-outdoor-living

Southern Living – Photography by Patricia Lyons

options-script

Aesthetically pleasing outdoor lighting lights the night, afternoon, or evening for mood, task, and setting.

outdoor-lighting-string-hanging

 Marissa Rodriguez

Layer lighting choices to create depth, contrast, and visual appeal.

Better Homes & Gardens 10-Count Warm White LED Ribbed Outdoor String Lights

Better Homes & Gardens 10-Count LED Ribbed Outdoor String Lights

outdoor-copper-torches

4-in-1 Cage-Style Garden Torches, Set of 4

When it comes to outdoor citronella candles the jury seems to still be out on the verdict of whether they work or not.

candles in wrapped jars outside living

 Kelly Sikkema

Thermacell Mosquito Repeller products for mosquito control win the superior function over superior style case every time.

mosquito-coil

Ronald Langeveld

Speaking of function over style, how many of you remember using mosquito coils at the drive-in?

Drive-in theaters were on the way out by the late 70s when I was a teen, however, every now and then you would run across one fully operational.

Trail-Drive-In-Theater-Amarillo-Texas

My older cousin, a teen of the 60s, still got a big kick out of going to the drive-in on hot summer nights.

Her go-to mosquito control involved a trip to the snack bar to purchase a mosquito coil for dashboard placement and mosquito control.

Better Homes & Gardens Citronella, Blue Lavender, and Cedar

Better Homes & Gardens Citronella, Blue Lavender, and Cedar

If the repeller product is unsightly place out of sight in or behind planters.

Minka Textured Pot

Minka Textured Pot

Earthen-Ware-Terracotta-Vessel-Planter.-3-colors-available (1)

Earthen Ware Weathered Egyptian Terracotta Vessel/Planter

Reserve hurricanes, buckets, and jars filled with citronella votives and pillars for your viewing audience to see.

outdoor-lanterns-black-rattan

Black Wood Cutout Lantern with Rope Handle, 20″
Glitzhome 14.25″ Solar Powered Outdoor Lantern
Large Seagrass Candle Lantern

For a shell of a good look begin with a clear cylinder vase(s) of your size choice, add decorative craft shells and starfish, and drop in a pillar or LED flameless candle.

cylinder-vase-candle-filled-with-decorative-shells

Libbey Clear Glass 8″ H Wide Cylinder Floral Vase

Better Homes & Gardens 6 White Flameless Flicker Outdoor LED Candle 2-Pack

Better Homes & Gardens 6″ White Flameless Flicker Outdoor LED Candle 2-Pack

patio-ideas-backyard-firepit

Veranda – Photography by Lisa Romerein

Perhaps cozy is more associated with the fall into the winter season, but I like to think of it as the year-round hallmark of a relaxing ambiance.

Bryndle root fire pit

Bryndle Root Fire Pit

Solo Stove Mesa Tabletop Fire Pit with Stand

Solo Stove Mesa Tabletop Fire Pit with Stand

Round Concrete Natural Gas Fire Pit in Pewter

Round Concrete Natural Gas Fire Pit in Pewter

sofa-L-shaped-outdoor

Round Hammered Wood Burning Fire Pit in Copper with Fire Tool

Round Hammered Wood Burning Fire Pit in Copper with Fire Tool

Classic black and white is always so chic, and according to trend spotters, this fabulous color combination is on-trend for the 2023 outdoor living decor season.

black-white-outdoor-rugs

Outdoor Rugs

Hampton Outdoor Wood/Wicker Club Chair (Set of 2) by Christopher Knight Home

Hampton Outdoor Wood/Wicker Club Chair (Set of 2)

Tone-on-tone blended with texture and pattern advances the overall appearance to next level style.

Better Homes & Gardens Tarren 5-Piece Outdoor Conversation Set, Black

Better Homes & Gardens Tarren 5-Piece Outdoor Conversation Set, Black

Embrace your curves.

Dark Gray Rope Lorenzo Outdoor Swivel Chair

Dark Gray Rope Lorenzo Outdoor Swivel Chair

Outdoor French Bistro Chairs

Louna Outdoor French Bistro Chair (Set of 2) 

Scatter spot stools, stands, and ottomans about to serve comfort and purpose.

Sunny Club Black Wicker Outdoor Ottoman

Sunny Club Black Wicker Outdoor Ottoman

Hammered Finish Metal Garden Stool, Copper ColorHammered Finish Metal Garden Stool, Copper Color

Punched Metal Plant Stand

Punched Metal Plant Stand

Porto Striped IndoorOutdoor Filled Ottoman Gray Square Pouf

Porto Striped Indoor/Outdoor Filled Ottoman Gray Square Pouf

Look familiar?

sun-in-retro-graphic-70s

sun-in-summer

Let the music play and the sunshine in.

Bose SoundLink Revolve Plus II Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Bose SoundLink Revolve Plus II Portable Bluetooth Speaker

sun-face-throw-pillow

Round Ivory Tufted Sun Face Indoor Outdoor Throw Pillow

Shades of seasonal colors in rays of sunshine hues add a touch of bright and cheery personality to the overall primary palette.

sunshine-bright-outdoor-living-throw-pillows

T.J. Maxx

Vandervort+Long+Reclining+Single+Chaise

Sanibel White Outdoor Chaise Lounge

Pink on the patio continues to be a house favorite.

pink-patio-outdoor-decor

Unique Loom Outdoor Trellis Area Rug
Nevis Palm Frond Indoor/Outdoor Area Rug – JONATHAN Y
Pink & White Beach Umbrella
Cabana Stripe Outdoor Throw Pillow DuraSeason Fabric™
Plushlines CH342 Multicolor Pillow
Women’s Farm Rio Green Slip On Flip Flop Sandals
The Novogratz Poolside Gossip Collection Priscilla Folding Chair (2-Pack)
Travelwant Wall and Railing Plastic Pots
Iron Outdoor Lantern Candle Holder
Ribbed Geometric Outdoor Stoneware Planter Pot Cherry Pink

Ellen Merchant Melamine Pitcher

Ellen Merchant Melamine Pitcher

Summer breezes usher in touches of tropical times, and for around $3.00 a pink with tropical green leaves swim float becomes a chic and festive centerpiece ring sitting pretty with a vase or planter full of seasonal floral or a themed ice bucket placed in the center.

tropical wim ring

Bluescape Pink Tropical Inflatable Swim Tube Pool Float

round galvanized tub

Better Homes & Gardens- Round Galvanized Tub

palm tree ice bucket

Pastimes Palm Tree Ice Bucket, 3 Quart

summer-floral-arrangement

Fawn Concrete Planter with Drainage Holes

Fawn Concrete Planter with Drainage Holes

Among the many Southern sayings in my dad’s rotation was the infamous “if it ain’t broke don’t fix it.”

Simple logic flanked by deep wisdom, folks.

summer-beverage-dispenser-with-spigot

This proven advice applies to the still popular choice of a clear beverage dispenser equipped with a spigot for displaying-holding-serving liquid refreshment to wet your whistle.

Pink Classic Outdoor Rolling Patio Cooler with Wheels and Handles

Pink Classic Outdoor Rolling Patio Cooler with Wheels and Handles

Speaks fluent ready, set, summer to me!

cool-beverage-in-glass-carafe

Social Cut

Chilling out with cool libation of the leaded or unleaded kind goes hand in hand with as the character Bick Benedict from the movie Giant puts it where we can sit and talk… and the breeze can get at us.

clear-glass-carafe

Glass Carafes

Converted vintage iron sewing machine stands and French marble-top baker’s tables serve style when used as an outdoor cocktail station.

French Cast Iron Marble Bakers Table

French Cast Iron Marble Baker’s Table

Carolina Chair and Table Vera Marble Top Bar Table

Vera 42 in. White/Black Standard Rectangle Marble Console Table

outdoor barware

Rene Lacquered Linen Matte Black Ice Bucket
Mila Oyster Bottle Opener
Better Homes & Gardens Acrylic Ribbed Short & Tall Tumblers Clear

Casual.

Cool.

Chic.

Classic Gold Metal Console Table

Classic Gold Metal Console Table

Although the Classic 43 in. Gold Metal Console Table in gold is not an outdoor piece, it is a piece that I would definitely include in my outdoor living space for a focal point party presence.

gold-console-accent-table-outdoor-living-space

You know—a take it outside for the event then bring it back inside afterwards piece.

Retro-Yellow-Outdoor-Steel-Glider

Retro Yellow Outdoor Steel Glider

Chillasan Palm Trees Outdoor Hanging Chair And Cushion (1)

Chillasan Palm Trees Outdoor Hanging Chair And Cushion

Classic seating choices reply will attend to the outdoor living decor RSVP- retro style vibe party.

blue-hydrangeas-porch-custom-bed-swing

Bella Botanica Designs Inc.

Finding an exact piece eludes the hunt at times, and this is where in the style of decorating comes into play.

Farmhouse 2 Person Wicker Porch Swing - Dark Brown

Farmhouse 2 Person Wicker Porch Swing – Dark Brown

hydrangea-throw-pillow

Blue Summer Hydrangea Square Decorative Throw Pillow 

Al fresco dining deliciously pairs with the spring-into-summer outdoor living package.

outdoor-kitchen-scott-shrader

Scott Shrader – Introspective Magazine

Dedicated outdoor living kitchen areas range from state-of-the-art outdoor kitchens complete with elaborate designs and every creature comfort known to trend to a card table, galvanized beverage tub, and a hibachi grill.

Outdoor Gourmet 5-Burner Stone Island Grill

Outdoor Gourmet 5-Burner Stone Island Grill

Kamado Joe Classic III 18-Inch Ceramic Kamado Grill

Kamado Joe Classic III 18-Inch Ceramic Kamado Grill

Traeger Timberline Wood Pellet WiFi Grill Black

Traeger Timberline Wood Pellet WiFi Grill Black

7-ft.-Stone-Veneer-with-4-Burner-Propane-Gas-Grill-Island-in-Stainless-Steel

7-ft. Stone Veneer 4 Burner Propane Gas Grill Island 

You’re the captain of the SS Whatever Floats Your Boat, and when the goal is to create a serene and stylish space, a harbor, if you will to relax, connect, refresh, and still the day into evening, there is no wrong way of achieving the goal.

woven-home-decor-outdoor-living

White Woven Decorative Platter, 12″

Bamboo Food Cover

Woven Jute Tray

Mini Table Lamp with Shade 12.75″H – White Finished Traditional Style

Natural Brown Faux Wicker Barrel Lantern with LED Bulb, Medium

Woven Garden & Patio Storage Box – Hearth & Hand™ with Magnolia

Giannetti-Home-outdoor-space

Giannetti Home

Spending quality time outdoor living it up doesn’t necessarily involve spending scads and scads of money.

Great looks at good prices exist, my friends.

Rattan+Gemana+Chair

Cushioned Rattan Armchair

Safavieh Idola White Washed Dining Chairs (Set of 2)

Idola White Washed Dining Chairs (Set of 2)

Round Woven Vase

Round Woven Vase

Melamine plates and acrylic glassware color, texture, and pattern options have come a long way, baby.

Bamboo and Melamine Printed Salad Plate - Threshold™

Bamboo and Melamine Printed Salad Plate – Threshold™

acrylic-bamboo-pattern-glass

Green Ombre Bamboo Cup
15-pack Food Friends Good Times Paper Napkins

melamine-salad-plates-toile-pattern

Set of 6, Indoor or Outdoor Melamine Plates (9″-6 Piece Set, Toile de Jouy)

Classic patterns and on-trend favorites translate to Melamine serving pieces for the KISS-keep it summer simple-decoristas.

classic-pattern-melamine-serving-trays

Pink Ball canning jars pair pretty with the summer salad season.

Hello-my-name-is-summer-name-card

Serving salads in canning jars continues to be a KISS serving staple.

Ball 4pk 32oz Regular Mouth Quart Canning Jars Rose Vintage

Pimpernel Blue Italian Sandwich Tray
Yellow Leopard Print Small Oblong Melamine Serving Platter
Ball 4pk 32oz Regular Mouth Quart Canning Jars Rose Vintage

the-tastes

Cool sips, light bites, late suppers, and tasty sweet treats delightfully entice and satisfy the taste for a light nosh on a hot summer day into night.

watermelon-agua-fresca-recipe

Watermelon Agua Fresca Recipe

Tuscan Artichoke Salad

Tuscan Artichoke Salad Recipe

Strawberry-Salsa-1

Strawberry Salsa Recipe

Lemon Tart

Lemon Tart Recipe

Summer is soon to be, and with its arrival comes the propensity to ready your outdoor spaces with spiffy summertime, and the outdoor livin’ is easy decor.

Darleen-signature-love

Show & Tell

Mother’s Day Moments and Musings

Mother’s Day moments and musings bring joy to the heart, create cherished memories, and often are responsible for bringing a sentimental tear or two to the eye.

garden-stroll

“A mother’s arms are made of tenderness
and children sleep soundly in them.”

—Victor Hugo

vintage-photo-mother-with-baby-son

“Mother is the name for God in the lips and hearts of little children.”

—William Makepeace Thackeray

jsl-silhouette

What I count as the greatest blessing of my life continues to amaze me, capture my heart, and bring much joy and happiness to each and every Mother’s Day.

Seems a piece of paper really is important in the grand scheme of a treasured things. This silhouette proves a precious and priceless keepsake.

arranging-roses-in-vase

Victoria Magazine

Flowers began arriving at the first of the week in deliveries for no other reason than I absolutely love fresh flowers from the floral department and local farmers market.

multi-color-carnations

farmer's-market-fresh-flowers (1)

spring-bouquet-flowers-color

Flowers depicted through art bloom forever (or until your taste changes).

pink-white-cabbage-rose

Gerardina Jacoba van de Sande Bakhuyzen roses

Gerardina Jacoba van de Sande Bakhuyzen

Home is where the Mother’s Day celebration brunch will be this year featuring a menu of light, sweet and easy house favorites.

brunchClassic Traditional Home

How lovely is this artichoke flower vase.

Inspired Mother’s Day celebration ideas show love and gratefulness in ways beyond retail.

Artichoke flower vase

Southern Lady Magazine

Mother’s Day celebration treats and sweets begin with the taste of home.

Creole Shrimp Caesar Salad with Cheesy Croutons

Creole Shrimp Caesar Salad with Cheesy Croutons

Chicken-Salad Cheesecake

Chicken-Salad Cheesecake

Rose-Lemon-Layer- Cake-slice

 Rose and Lemon Layer Cake

It is my honor to celebrate the mothers, grandmothers, new moms, moms-to-be, and women who are like a mother to so many as they enjoy their special day.

Happy Mother’s Day!

Darleen-signature-love

Show & Tell

Kentucky Derby Party Ideas

The first weekend in May means it is Kentucky Derby time, and that my friends means Kentucky Derby party ideas.

jockey-horse-racing-Churchill-Downs

Racing at Churchill Downs

Horse racing enthusiasts, socialites and celebrities will flock to Churchill Downs this Saturday to view the Run for the Roses.

Known as the most exciting two minutes in sports, the Kentucky Derby as well as Churchill Downs is grand in history where tradition and excitement run first place.

finish-line-Churchill-Downs

Kentucky Derby on Facebook

For those of us not making the jaunt, an excellent opportunity to get down and get derby is just a jaunt to the dollar and hobby store away.

morning-race-Churchill-Downs

Churchill Downs

In other words, you can create your own Kentucky Derby extravaganza with a little imagination and one or more of these Kentucky Derby party ideas.

fresh-red-rose-bouquet

Begin with the basics- decorating ideas revolving around traditions, red roses, mint juleps and fascinating fashions.

Mint Julep Cup

Dress the Derby fashions have long been as much of the win, place or show festivities as the actual race(s).

For her

kentucky-derby-fashions-women-dress

Bow Strap Oblique Slit Shift Dress in White
Linear Pearl Drop Earrings
LC Lauren Conrad Camden Clamshell Bag
Iridescent Geometry Mosaic of White Mother of Pearl Bangle Bracelet
Anne Klein Raquel Pump

Part garden party, part afternoon wedding, part pretty is back in style.

Pearl Strap Cold-Shoulder Shift Dress in Pink

Pearl Strap Cold-Shoulder Shift Dress in Pink

Derby today, Mother’s Day brunch next week.

pastel-white-pearl-accessories

J Reneé Karuny Heels

Red Golden Rose Embroidered Mesh Midi Skirt

Red Golden Rose Embroidered Mesh Midi Skirt

For him

mens-horse-racing-Kentucky-Derby-accessories

Ray-Ban RB3447N Round Flat Lenses
Stripe Bow Tie & Julep Pocket Square Set
Men’s Cheshire Classic Floral Tie
Men’s Horse-Bit Silver-Tone Stainless Steel Cuff Links

Derby dazzling accessories in gold and silver for Kentucky Derby Day and beyond.

Derby-horse-jewelry

Derby Day Racehorses cuff bracelet

Gold-Tone Silver Horse Head Earrings
Horseshoe Bangle Bracelet with Black Spinel Accents 
Horse And Carriage Stud Earrings
Women’s Silver-Tone Horseshow Barrette
14K Gold-Tone Dipped Clear Crystal and Horse Accent Hinge Bracelet
Horse Bit Dangle Hoop Earrings in Sterling Silver & 14k Gold-Plate
Bead Horse Shoe Charm Bracelet in Silver Plate
Derby Day Race Horses Cuff Bracelet

Now let’s switch gears and show and tell Kentucky Derby party ideas.

And they’re off!

brown horse head wall accent

Hobby Lobby

Working with a theme makes coming up with ideas an easy exercise in Derby decorating.

faux-grass-table-runner

Grass Table Runner 59in

Horse races are run on dirt courses and turf races.

Dirt is not something I recommend dressing out a lovely party food table in. I mean come on, who wants to decorate a party food table with dirt?

Anywho…

green-reindeer-Spanish-moss

Emulate the look of a turf race with a faux grass table runner.  Spanish and/or reindeer moss pairs well or as stand alone centerpiece additions.

horse-bit-stirrup-fabric

Gallop on down to the local fabric store or shopping site of choice and pick up a yard or two of horse-racing-equestrian-jockey-rose themed fabric and proceed to create tablecloth, runner, and cocktail napkins keepers.

roses-red-pink-cotton-fabric copy

Rose Fabric, By the yard

I can’t sew to save my life, but I am a whiz with a roll of hem tape. Mark your hemlines, heat up the iron, roll out the desired amount of tape, and voilà, table linen magic is made.

roses-Kroger

Red roses rule the Run for the Roses and make a strong show the next day as an introduction to Mother’s Day week.

See where this getting a lot of bang for your buck decorating logic is going?

Design Toscano The Six Stallions of the Hippodrome Sculptural Vessel

Design Toscano The Six Stallions of the Hippodrome Sculptural Vessel

Marilyn Hageman 'Ritzy Light' Canvas Art

Marilyn Hageman ‘Ritzy Light’ Canvas Art

Good things come in pairs and give good decor accent beauty past party day.

Horse Portrait

Horse Portraits

Polystone Horse Head Sculpture

Polystone Horse Head Sculpture

Centerpiece equation solved with one horse head sculpture/statue sitting in the middle of a red rose floral wreath is Kentucky Derby divine.

Derby-centerpiece-roses-horse-statue-idea

Several faux stems of roses will work to fill in bare areas.

Simply dismantle the centerpiece after your Derby party and use the wreath for your Mother’s Day brunch-lunch-dinner centerpiece.

red-tulle

Look at you, you decorating smarty designing and decorating a smashing Derby party.

DIY-run-for-the-roses-table-runner

Over on the Kentucky Derby website is this tutorial for making a DIY Garland of Roses Table Runner.

Horse Racing Roses Kentucky Derby Table Runner

Horse Racing Roses Kentucky Derby Table Runner

Over on Amazon is this horse racing/Kentucky Derby themed table runner.

Churchill Downs Race Coming down the homestretch

Coming Down the Homestretch 

For extra Run for the Roses Derby flair, I clip several roses from my flower bed, clip the stems short, and float blooms in clear bowls.

knockout rose bush

Clip stems at an angle to promote optimum water absorption.

Decorative Clear Glass Bowls

Warm water works best, and I drop a low dose aspirin into the water to prolong the life of the roses.

No real roses?

Artificial Flowers Silk Rose Flowers

No real problem.

roses-in-trophy-cups-Kentucky-Derby-party-ideas-photo-Michael-Partenio

Better Homes & Gardens – Photography by Michael Partenio

Faux rose bouquets placed in inexpensive vases, champagne buckets, on trays, or in trophy cups works beautifully as well.

clear-square-vase-with-roses

red-rose-trim-ribbon

Gather stems together tight and wrap with decorative ribbon.

Basics Hammered Champagne Bucket

Basics Hammered Champagne Bucket

Nickel Etched Trophy

Nickel Etched Trophy with Handles

Super stylish option.

Light Brown Magazine Leather Basket

Light Brown Magazine Leather Basket

Incorporating the traditional aspects of horse racing into my Kentucky Derby party ideas such as riding boots, horseshoes, and a riding helmet or two is not as difficult as one would think.

Riding Boots Stacked Heel

Women’s Riding Boots

brown-black-ladies-riding-boots

Macy’s

ladies-black-riding-boots

Belk

Spring is a great time of the year in retail sales to locate a pair of riding boots on sale or clearance. Riding boots will work perfect in my Kentucky Derby party ideas scheme.

Saturday’s centerpiece will become my new fall fashion boots.

Now that’s getting your money’s worth.

Charlotte-Moss-blue-and-white-accents-roses-in-vase

Charlotte Moss – Photography by Brittany Ambridge

Several small arrangements of cut roses set on tabletops continues the Run for the Roses theme.

roses-house-and-garden

House & Garden

A combination arrangement of red and white roses perfectly fits in with the Run for the Roses motif.

rosesHGTV

Silver Mercury Glass Vase

Silver Mercury Glass Vases

Party decorating goes with a clever DIY project, and my list of Kentucky Derby party ideas includes one that is relatively simple to execute.

Traditional Polystone Horse Pedestal Table

Traditional Polystone Horse Pedestal Table

Horse Resin Table Lamp

Horse Resin Table Lamp

Classic-Bronze-Horse-Accent-Lamp-with-Tweed-Shade

Classic Bronze Horse Accent Lamp with Tweed Shade

Oliver Gal Artist Co. White Stallion Canvas Wall Art

Oliver Gal ‘Jockey Still Life’ Sports and Teams Wall Art Canvas Print

Fully sanded-ready to paint wood cutouts painted in your choice of color(s) carry out the horse racing theme.

horse-wood-cutouts

Growing Tree Gallery on Etsy

Scatter about tabletops, prop and position around serving trays, centerpiece embellishments, cake toppers, monogram with party attendees initials as take home favors- you get the idea.

mint-julep-silver-tray

Garden & Gun- Photography by Margaret Houston 

Horse racing reigns supreme in Louisville, and the traditional beverage of Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby is the Mint Julep.

Ingredients

½ oz. superfine sugar

1 oz. hot water

8 mint leaves, plus one mint sprig

2 oz. bourbon

Directions

Dissolve the sugar in the water in an old-fashioned glass or Mint Julep cup.

Add mint leaves and gently press with a spoon.

Add the bourbon of your choice, fill the glass with crushed ice, and stir.

Place mint sprig in the ice alongside a short straw, and serve.

-Garden & Gun

lavender lemonade mint julep

Lavender-Lemonade Mint Julep

For 1 cocktail

Ingredients

2 ounces bourbon

1.5 ounces Lavender Simple Syrup (recipe follows)

1 ounce fresh lemon juice

Ice

Garnish: fresh lavender sprig, fresh mint sprig, lemon slice

Directions

In a glass, combine bourbon, Lavender Simple Syrup, and lemon juice. Add ice. Garnish with lavender, mint, and lemon, if desired.

Lavender Simple Syrup

Ingredients

1 cup water

1 cup sugar

2 tablespoons fresh lavender buds

1 ounce fresh mint sprigs

Directions

In a small pot, combine 1 cup water and sugar, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and add lavender and mint. Cool completely. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve.

-Southern Lady Magazine

mint-julep-cup-crushed-ice

Acopa Alchemy 16 oz. Stainless Steel Mint Julep Cup with Beaded Detailing

Mock Mint Julep (non-alcoholic julep)

Ingredients

2 cups cold water

2 cups granulated sugar

8 fresh mint sprigs (for syrup)

½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

32 ounces Ginger Ale soda, chilled

8 cups crushed ice

8 fresh mint sprigs for garnish or more to desired taste

Directions

In a large saucepan, bring, water, sugar, lemon juice and mint leaves to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently until sugar is completely dissolved.

Allow mixture to cool.

Strain cooled simple mint syrup and discard mint leaves.

Fill your mint julep cups with crushed ice, ½ cup Ginger Ale soda, and ½ cup mint syrup.  Stir to incorporate flavors.

Garnish with fresh mint sprigs.

Makes 8 servings.

Arthur-Court-horse-pitcher

Arthur Court Designs Horse Pitcher

Keep an eye out for vintage decanters and Derby glassware on resale sites and vintage shops.

Vintage Jim Beam Kentucky Derby Decanter

Vintage Jim Beam Kentucky Derby Decanter

Leather-Modern-Wine-Holder

The Novogratz Leather Ice Bucket with Lid

Thoroughbred Horse Themed bar glasses

Thoroughbred Horse Themed Cocktail Glasses

horse-racing-equestrian-barware

Derby Day Horse Racing Game

Derby Day Horse Racing Game

Horse Drink Stirrers

Horse Drink Stirrers

Here’s a fun serving idea for other beverages requiring ice cubes- rose petal and fresh mint ice cubes.

Gently remove rose petals and fresh mints leaves from stems and lightly wash to remove any debris.

freezing-rose-petals1

Place rose petals into each water filled compartment.

Enhance the flavor of mint ice cubes by also adding a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the water.

Better yet, use sweet iced tea infused with fresh lemon juice instead of water.

Freeze and enjoy.

fresh mint ice cubes

Pick up several nickel-plated serving trays from Dollar Tree in assorted shapes and sizes to use for servings mint juleps and appetizers.

nickel-metal-serving-trays

pimento-cheese-walnuts-silver-tray

Pimento cheese is a Derby delicacy.

Adding a dash of Creole seasoning or Louisiana hot sauce along with a handful or two of chopped walnuts to store bought pimento cheese brings the c’est si bon to the party.

Derby-appetizers-on-silver-trays

stirrup-hors-d'oeuvre-forks

Stirrup Hors d’oeuvre Forks

Faux Leather Decorative Charger

Faux Leather Decorative Charger

Spode-horse-plates

Spode Woodland Thoroughbred Horse Dinner Plate

Large Vintage Rose Platter

Vintage Rose Platter

Encore presentation worthy for sure, I feel confident in suggesting the use of vintage beauties such as this one for Kentucky Derby party pieces.

Kentucky Hot Brown open-faced sandwich

The Kentucky Hot Brown sandwich, a Kentucky original recipe created in 1926 at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky, is a perfect Derby Day menu choice.

This recipe from SheKnows plates turkey, bacon, Parmesan cheese, tomatoes and a heavy-handed dollop of bechamel sauce together in all its delicious, rich and Kentucky tradition glory.

Click HERE for recipe.

Butter Pecan Praline Cake

Heather of Sprinkle Bakes recipe fame comes in first place in the winner’s circle with her recipe for Butter Pecan Praline Cake.

Brown-Sugar-Praline-Cake-5

silver-horse-theme-cake-stand-dome

fresh-red-roses-cake-topper

If baking does not fit into your party schedule or itinerary, consider picking up your favorite cake at a local or grocery store bakery and adding embellishments of choice.

whipped-topping-on-pecan-delight-pie

Pecan Delight pie works, too.

Copycat-Piccadilly-Pecan-Delight-Pie (1)

Pecan Delight Pie

Add riding helmets and equestrian accents to your treasure hunting list when shopping antiques and resale shops.

Vintage Velvet Horse Show Riding Cap Helmet

Vintage Velvet Horse Show Riding Cap Helmet 

Perhaps a tip of the hat to a more formal affair prop.

Victorian-style-felt-top-hat

Throw Pillow Cover Painting Horse Race Competition

Racing Horse No Cord Throw Pillow

Racing Horse No Cord Throw Pillow

Avalon Solid Monogram Wool and Cashmere Throw Decor H Blanket

Beige Merino Wool, Cashmere Plaid Throws

Kentucky-Derby-party-ideas

Kentucky-Derby-Decor

Kentucky Derby Party Ideas Checklist:

Scrapbook paper in 12×12 sheets found at craft stores make perfect Derby party placemats

OFF TO HORSE RACES TRIPLE CROWN 2PCS SCRAPBOOK PAPER DOUBLE SIDED

red-roses-paper-single-sheets

Fresh or faux roses.

red knockout roses

red-rose-tulle

White & Multi Spiky Rose Trim

Rose Trim-Tulle

Mint julep cups – a Derby must.

mint julep cups set

copper-mint-julep-cups

Mint Julep Cups

Lovely!

rose-boutique-paper-cocktail-napkins

Derby-cocktail-cotton-napkins

Derby Cocktail Napkins 

Fresh mint clippings for mint juleps.

Simple and fragrant, float fresh mint sprigs in clear cut glass bowls slightly filled with warm water.

fresh-mint-in-clear-bowl

Dollar store trays with the look of silver and the ease of clean up deliver a big and beautiful return on your decorating investment.

nickel-metal-serving-trays

Tractor Supply meets the Derby need with nickel plated horse bits to use as napkin rings and horseshoes in packs of 4.

mouth bit for horse

Diamond Plain Bronco Horseshoe, Size 0, Pack of 4

Here’s to traditions and celebrating the Run for the Roses with win, place and show-stopping Kentucky Derby party ideas.

Darleen-signature-love

Show & Tell

Isn’t She Lovely Mother’s Day Gifts

Isn’t She Lovely Mother’s Day gifts ideas is updated to reflect stylish, on trend and traditionally classic gift suggestions.

mothers-day-holding-hands

 Jake Thacker 

Blooms, sweet treats, good reads, new mom tech, spring into summer accessories and, of course, home is where the mom is finds make up the list.

fresh-flower-bouquet-Mothers-Day (1)

Godiva-chocolates-Mothers-Day

mother-daughter-in-field-of-flowers

 Liana Mikah

May flowers and decadent confections have long been traditional Mother’s Day favorites.

Grace-Rose-Farms-Rose-bushes

Grace Rose Farm

Rose bouquets are lovely, and for the Mom who loves to get to growing consider a fragrant rose bush paired with a gathering or willow basket.

Willow Crossley Floral Gathering Basket

Willow Crossley Floral Gathering Basket

rose-pruners

Living-with-Roses-book-displayed-on-easel

Victoria Magazine

Living with Roses - (Victoria) by Melissa Lester (Hardcover)

Living with Roses – (Victoria) by Melissa Lester (Hardcover)

rose-willow-basket

Natural Willow Basket by Ashland®

Hydrangea Floral Arrangement Jigsaw Puzzle, 500 Plus Pieces, Blue and White

Hydrangea Floral Arrangement Jigsaw Puzzle, 500 Plus Pieces, Blue and White

New York Botanical Garden Roses  100 Postcards from the Archives of the New York Botanical Garden (Cards)

New York Botanical Garden: Roses : 100 Postcards from the Archives
of the New York Botanical Garden (Cards)

To know me is to know I’m a huge fan of using real or faux florals when decorating gift boxes and cake tops.

wedding-bouquets-bloomsWeddbook

Lovely Mother's Day Gifts-wrap-idea

Wrap it up and put a bow, real buds-n-blooms or faux flower stem(s), ribbon or strand of pearls on it.

MOM-pearl-cake-topper

Not all flowers bloom from the stem.

French Country Fireside Lounge Chair

French Country Fireside Lounge Chair

Traditional Floral Fabric Design Upholstered Accent Armchair with Turned Legs

Traditional Floral Upholstered Accent Armchair with Turned Legs

Flower-5-Light-Chandelier-Antique-Cream-Finish-with-Yellow-Flowers

Star Flower 5-Light Chandelier Antique Cream Finish with Yellow Flowers

Mother’s Day came early when checking out the listings of eBay I found a set of four Desert Rose pattern by Franciscan teacups and saucers at a fantastic price.

Desert-Rose-china-teacup

Mama Places In The Home and I will enjoy morning coffee talk and afternoon tea time with this set on Mother’s Day.

European-style-porcelain-teapot

Lemon Whimsy Cotton Kitchen Towel 2pc Set – Martha Stewart

Vintage Floral Hand painted China Creamer

Home Essentials Lemon Chintz 37oz. Teapot

Mother's Day Green & White Teapot Gift Set

Mother’s Day Green & White Teapot Gift Set

Figural Flower Mug

Figural Flower Mug

Butterfly Meadow Thermal Travel Mug

Butterfly Meadow Thermal Travel Mug

Garden goodies that guide and bloom all year long.

Dark Walnut Cast Stone Sunflower Stepstone

Dark Walnut Cast Stone Sunflower Stepstone

Rose Stepstone Dark Walnut

Rose Stepstone

For the mom who is a decorista at heart, a home is where the mom and her impeccable style makes a big hit.

Nourison-Hand-Hooked-Fantasy-Floral-Multi-Rug

Nourison Fantasy Traditional Floral Area Rug

Safavieh-Hand-hooked-Chelsea-Tiarra-Country-Oriental-Wool-Rug (1)

Safavieh Hand-hooked Chelsea Tiarra Country Oriental Wool Rug

mother-daughter-hugging (1)

 Yannaty KOUYATE

Moms-story-memory-journal

Mom’s Story : A Memory and Keepsake Journal for My Family 

Dave and I often compared birth order notes as we were/are the baby of our families.

Nostalgia Eau De Parfum

Nostalgia Eau De Parfum

Both of us referred to our mothers as mama.

jsl-silhouette

Our Canadian snowbird called me mama for years, but when he became too cool for his Southern roots he began calling me mom.

Popsockets Grip with Swappable Top for Cell Phones, PopGrip Mama Bear

Popsockets PopGrip Mama Bear

Summer is coming, and mom will be in summer chic style in one or all of these seasonal accessories.

stylish-mothers-day-gift-ideas-1

NEST New York Mini Perfume Oil Set

FLORAL – Rose – Square Scarf

Beloved Cherry Blossom & Tea Rose Body Cream

Hibiscus Flower Claw Hair Clip

1/10 CT. T.W. Genuine White Diamond 14K Gold Over Silver Bolo Bracelet

Yes, Please! Lab Created White Sapphire Sterling Silver 9mm Stud Earrings

Mixit Womens Faye Flat Sandals

a.n.a Womens Barker Slide Sandals

coastal-sunrise-jason-pischke

 Jason Pischke on Unsplash

Beach, poolside or simply an afternoon on the patio with a good read and summer style essentials gifts make a big splash.

3_Wick_Coastal_Sunrise_candle

ROOT Candle in Coastal Sunrise

Folding Rattan Beach Chair

Rattan Folding Beach Chair with Adjustable Hooks

Beach chic accessories sets the tone and trend for spring into summer style.

natural Top-Drilled Cultured White Keshi Pearl choker Necklace

Natural Top-Drilled Cultured White Keshi Pearl Choker Necklace

Women's Elora Mule Flats

Women’s Elora Mule Flats

embroidered-palm-leaf-raffia-crossbody-bag

Embroidered Palm Leaf Raffia Crossbody Bag

LC Lauren Conrad Camden Clamshell Bag

LC Lauren Conrad Camden Clamshell Bag

Rattan Knot Top Handle Bag 1

Rattan Knot Top Handle Bag

Miriam woven Mule

Miriam Woven Mule

White Shell Mosaic of Linked Ovals Statement Necklace

Teardrop Shell Earrings

Enchanting Cluster of White Kabibe Shell Circles Dangle Earrings

Iridescent Geometry Mosaic of White Mother of Pearl Bangle Bracelet

White Shell Mosaic of Linked Ovals Statement Necklace

vintage-black-white-new-mom-holding-baby-portrait

 Museums Victoria 

Mother’s Day is an exciting time for new moms and moms to be.

Dainty Mama Necklace by Caitlyn Minimalist

Dainty Mama Necklace by Caitlyn Minimalist

new-mom-to-be

The Honest Company New Mama Care EssentialS Gift Set

The Honest Company New Mama Care Essentials Gift Set

Mommy tender loving care.

Mama Embroidered Pigment-Dyed Baseball Cap

Mama Embroidered Pigment-Dyed Baseball Cap

New baby demands often nix any and all hope of a good hair day. This is where the Mama baseball cap comes in to save the bad hair day.

Hatch Rest+ 2nd Gen All-in-one Sleep Assistant, Nightlight & Sound Machine with Back-up Battery

 Hatch Rest+ 2nd Gen All-in-one Sleep Assistant, Nightlight & Sound Machine 

daisy-decorated-sugar-cookies

Linen & Gray

Pioneer-Woman-Timeless-Beauty-Jade-Glass-Cookie-Jar

The Pioneer Woman Timeless Beauty 9.8-inch Jade Glass Cookie Jar

Pretty and delicious pair beautifully together.

This Lemon Lavender Layer Cake recipe from Sprinkle Bakes will make quite the impression at your Mother’s Day celebration.

Lemon-Lavender-Layer-Cake-2

Lemon Lavender Layer Cake

I hope the Places In The Home Isn’t She Lovely Mother’s Day Gifts guide does in fact guide you to the perfect gift.

Darleen-signature-love

Show & Tell

At Home Lawn and Garden Curb Appeal

At home lawn and garden curb appeal projects lead the way to impressive results with big returns that welcome style home.

cottage-journal-Photography by Marcy Black Simpson curb appeal (1)

The Cottage Journal

Springtime weather along with in season sources lights, designs and perfects the walkway/pathway to maximum curb appeal satisfaction.

More than a tomayto, tomahto difference, walkway and pathway will b0th get you to where you’re going but here’s the difference according to The Spruce and Merriam-Webster.

Walkways serve a more utilitarian purpose as a passage or path for walking and/or connecting different areas of a building, garden path or park sections.

Pathway is defined as a meandering avenue of sorts, usually made from casual, vintage and/or rustic materials.

Bronze Path Light

Hinckley Hardwired Bronze Path Light

Achieving visually appealing curb appeal instantly and affordably is not a home maintenance myth.

Paint renews the old, spring sales give good return on your investment, a stone walkway leads to wow factor, and new exterior lighting fixture(s) deliver function and style.

mint-green-dutch-door (1)

Cameron Design 

Rustic Canyon Sandstone Step Stone

Rustic Canyon 12 in. x 18 in. Natural Sandstone Step Stone

Landscape rocks dress up beds and edges. Mix and mingle larger faux rocks in with less expensive landscape rocks for depth and contrast.

Decorative Landscape Rock

Decorative Landscape Rock

At home lawn and garden curb appeal inspiration “springs” to mind reading the Yardzen 2023 Annual Outdoor Living Trend Report.

wood-landscaping-mulch

Bagged Wood Mulch

Home Depot is currently having a spring Black Friday sale, and the 5 bags for $10 deal on bagged wood mulch in color choice of red, black or brown affordably times sprucing up beds and killing dreaded weeds with at home lawn and garden curb appeal detail.

Honeycomb Half Circle RugHoneycomb Half Circle Rug

honeycomb-pattern-half-round-doormat

Honeycomb Half Circle Rug, Natural Coir Bee Welcome Mat

dragonfly-door-knocker

Majestic Animal Door Knocker

Victorian Plate Backset Lifetime Brass F Grip Entry Set Victorian Knob

Victorian Plate 2-3/8 in. Backset Lifetime Brass F Grip Entry Set Victorian Knob

Standout pieces announce style lives here.

Heritage-Finish-house-numbers Address Numerals in Heritage Finish

Beeutiful!

black-double-front-doors

Frankel Design Build

Traditional, new trad, modern, contemporary and on-trend tastes are easily addressed through style and finish options.

decorative-house-numbers

5 in. Black Floating or Flush House Number

4 in. Satin Nickel Flush Mount Metal House Number

6 in. Antique Copper Aluminum Floating or Flat Modern House Number

5-1/2 in. Black Plastic House Number

The Leighton Address Plaque Personalized Etched Wall Slate Sign

Atlas Homewares Alhambra Address Number

Nora House Numbers

4 in. Satin Nickel Flush Mount Self-Adhesive House Number

4 in. Aged Bronze Flush Mount House Number

exterior-lanterns-curb-appeal-barn-door-garage

John Kraemer & Sons

Regional designs and decor accessories reflecting regional attributes impress a touch of home sweet home.

white-brick-home-gray-front-door

 At Home in Arkansas

Architectural accents and accessories with an instantly recognizable southern influence naturally come into play when selecting exterior lighting.

copper-southern-style-outdoor-lanterns

Wakeford Collection Antique Copper Outdoor Small Wall Lantern Light
Rue De Royal 1-Light Industrial Bronze Outdoor Wall Lantern Sconce

Pink New Orleans Cottage

The Cottage Journal – Photography by Stephanie Welbourne Steele

beach-style-exterior

John Kraemer & Sons

reclaimed-dutch-door-front-entry

 Brandon Architects

outdoor-lighting-curb-appeal-ideas

Bardstown 1-Light Aged Verde Outdoor Wall Lantern Sconce

Palermo Grove Antique Nickel Outdoor Wall Lantern

Anchorage Medium 2-Light Aged Zinc Outdoor Wall Lantern Sconce

Weathered Zinc Outdoor Light Wall Sconce with Clear Seeded Ribbed Glass

Black LED Integrated Outdoor Sconce Lantern Light with Seeded Glass

1-Light Weathered Zinc Wall Sconce Outdoor Light with Clear Seeded Glass

Bevolo-Six-Sided-French-Quarter-Canal-Street-gas-lantern-Light

Bevolo Six-Sided French Quarter® Canal Street Light

exterior-lanterns-curb-appeal-barn-door-garage (2)

John Kraemer & Sons

outdoor-lighting-curb-appeal

Antique Pewter Hardwired Outdoor Wall Lantern Sconce with Seeded Glass

Black Outdoor Wall Cylinder for Outdoor Spaces with Up-Down Light Output

Matte Black Motion Sensing Dusk to Dawn Outdoor Wall Lantern Sconce 

 2-Light Matte Black Transitional Outdoor Wall Lantern with Clear Beveled Glass

Brookside Collection Solid Copper Farmhouse Outdoor Small Wall Lantern Light

Manchester Collection 1-Light Aged Brass Outdoor Wall Lantern Sconce

shiny-brass-letter-slot

 Mindy Gayer

mail-slots-decorative

Solid Brass Heavy Sprung Georgian Letter Plate
Beaded Mail Slot

copper-verdigris-mailbox

Copper darkens and gives way to the verdigris process over time, and my mailbox is a process in progress.

verdigris

ver·di·gris

a bright bluish-green encrustation or patina formed on copper or brass by atmospheric oxidation, consisting of basic copper carbonate.

verdigris-patina

Where some see it as unsightly others see it as patina perfection.

wall-mount-mailboxes-decorative

Brown Copper Metal Wall Mounted Mailbox

Hummingbird Cast Aluminum Mailbox, Antique Copper

MYOYAY Vintage Wall Mounted Mailbox Cast Aluminum Locking Mailbox

Marina Black Small Steel Wall Mount Mailbox

Embossed Tin Post Letter Box Red – 3R Studios

Locking Security Wall Mount Mailbox,Aluminum Bronze Vintage

Frank Lloyd Wright Collection Locking Wall Mount Mailbox

Annapolis Mailbox Post

post-mount-decorative-mailboxes

Retro Cast Aluminum Mailbox Lockable Security Postal Letter

Edwards Black, Large, Steel, Post Mount Mailbox

Roxbury Rubbed Bronze Post Mailbox with Cast Knob and Champagne Flag

Balmoral White Mailbox

Hillsborough Copper, Large, Steel, Post Mount Mailbox with Silver Flag

Classic Bronze Post Mount Mailbox

Postal Pro Post-Mount Hampton Mailbox in Bronze with Gold Lettering

Retro Cast Aluminum Mailbox Lockable Security Postal Letter 

woman-yellow-rose

Sourcing gift ideas to show and tell in an upcoming Mother’s Day post brings me to include this lovely portrait and garden arbor.

Cozy dresses this focal point combination of curb appeal, spring, and Mother’s Day gift idea.

Green Metal Traditional Garden Arbor

Green Metal Traditional Garden Arbor

Color comes alive not only in the exterior paint choices applied to trim, shutters, doors, and columns, but in the landscaping details and accents selected to showcase entry, porch, lawn and garden.

geranium-red

Annuals color up planters, baskets, and beds for sure, but may not match with your curb appeal master plan.

Floral Doormat by Ashland®

Floral Doormat by Ashland®

floral-outdoor-doormat

Enter door wreaths, outdoor pillows, garden stools perched and porched, and doormats.

spring-wreath-front-door

column-repainted

Outdoor wall decorations create a vignette designed to draw the eye (and in some cases cover or camouflage areas otherwise deemed an eyesore).

fern-rocker-dusty-miller

Additions and subtractions to my curb appeal equation continue- hence the ladder ready to go at a painter’s notice.

curb-appeal-refresh

Aged to weathered perfection, I’m still happy with the copper wall fountain installed thirteen years ago although…

Sunnydaze Seaside Hanging Outdoor Wall Water Fountain with Lead Finish - 27-Inch

Sunnydaze Seaside Hanging Outdoor Wall Water Fountain with Lead Finish

Garden statues placed atop fence columns complete curb appeal finishing details.

Weathered Brown Artichoke Finial Statue

Weathered Brown Artichoke Finial Statue

Last fall before all hell broke loose with Dave’s health I walked the driveway and front sidewalks taking inventory of exterior projects to be addressed sooner than later.

sherwin-williams-exterior-house-paint-color-choices

Taking note of chippy shutters and gables along with faded columns and trim it suddenly became“paintfully” obvious curb appeal was lacking.

Painting the exterior gives new life and new look to existing features.

white-columns

On the topic of creating curated details let me share with you a favorite faux feature we ran with when we remodeled.

shutter-repaint

Behind the shutters in the image above is a window from the original dining room design.

Dave boarded up existing windows fastening shutters to newly constructed frames. Dummy scroll shutter dogs serving strictly a cosmetic purpose were added to achieve the look  known around these parts.

Galvanized Iron Dummy Scroll Shutter Dogs With Beveled Edge

Springtime is the right time for enhancing curb appeal with first impressions make lasting impressions themed projects.

Darleen-signature-love

 

 

 

Show & Tell

Easter Glory

Easter glory is awakened and on parade.

wedding-flower-baskets

Martha Stewart – Photography by Gianluca Adovasio

1 Peter 1:3:
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”

Easter glory

“The day the Lord created hope was probably
the same day he created spring.”

— Bernard Williams

Nazareth, Nazareth, Israel

Pisit Heng

 “Easter spells out beauty, the rare beauty of new life.”

— S.D. Gordon

cherry-blossom-trees

Katie Moum

“Twas Easter-Sunday.
The full-blossomed trees filled all the
air with fragrance and with joy.”

— Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

straw-hat-pink-ribbon

Rachel Parcell

“As long as there is pink in the world, it will always be a better place.”

—Anonymous

butterfly-landed-on-pink-flower“The butterfly is a flying flower, the flower a tethered butterfly.”

—Ecouchard Le Brun

pink-roses-hobnail-glasses-spring-Easter-tablescape (1)

Southern Lady Magazine

Jane-Austen-theme-garden (1)

Elle Decor – Photography by Eva Nemeth

Charles Edmond Rene-His oil“Almost every person, from childhood, has been touched
by the untamed beauty of wildflowers.”

—Lady Bird Johnson

Carrot Harvest Hand Embroidery PDF Pattern

Carrot Harvest Hand Embroidery

Easter-vintage-greetings

The Graphics Fairy

Easter-egg-hunt

Pottery Barn Kids

As we marvel at, gather together, and hunt in the presence of Easter glory, my wish for each of you is one of love, renewal and joy.

feathered friends ducks

Pinterest

Happy Easter, dear friends.

Darleen-signature-love

 

Show & Tell