bliss in the city

Nursery Inspiration for Little Miss Norah

2011-10-21T00:46:00.000-06:00

Can't wait to get going on this little project for my little Norah girl. 14 more weeks!

*I wonder if it is obvious that I like grey, mustard, and trellis?

books.

2011-01-21T21:53:00.005-07:00

I don't love to read books. I think I read too much in college and now I am good. Yep. I find much more satisfaction reading home magazines with pictures :)
I just got back from the most amazing trip ever to market for work. I think I was on cloud nine for four straight days even with working eleven hour days and terribly achy feet and legs. Words cannot describe it...Showroom, after showroom, of the most amazing displays of home decor, accessories and gifts EVER. I was tickled pink the entire time....oh, except when we missed our flight coming home....all seven of us....and got in at midnight instead of seven p.m. and hundreds of dollars later. We all learned a good lesson. Might be good for at least one person to check their actual itinerary and don't pass on getting on the subway train that has arrived because it is too full and you think there is another one coming soon. There isn't. And you will miss your flight. Especially if no one knows what time the flight is leaving. And, no, Delta doesn't care. Aside from that, it was amazing and I was in heaven the whole time. I was really inspired by all of the showrooms that used old book pages in their displays and wanted to do something in my house. So I gave my window above my fireplace a facelift for Spring.

before

Book pages also make for cute wrapping paper for smaller gifts.

Fa-la-la-la-la....

2011-01-21T20:20:00.002-07:00

....la-la-la-lah... You know something is wrong with you when you go to blog Christmas pictures and cannot find one with people in it...but I have my tree! Ha. I will have to track down some family pics that other people took with actual people in them. (And one of these days I will get around to blogging our wedding, honeymoon, Lake Powell, etc. I promise we really did get married! There are just like a bazillion pictures and everytime I go to do it, I get impatient and move on to something else) For now, here is a picture of Brock's and my Christmas tree. I loved the little white birds in it.

pillows.

2010-11-08T22:30:00.002-07:00

pillows for your head...pillows for your bed...pillows in just about every color, including red.

happy halloween!

2010-10-31T20:30:00.003-06:00

A couple of nights ago I mentioned to Brock that I wanted to start a Halloween tradition...something homeade and delicious that we make every year on Halloween. I remember growing up my friend's mom would always make homeade doughnuts for all of the neighbor kids and they were delicious! My mom would often make homeade chili or chicken noodle soup and there was a family in our neighborhood that would have a big hot chocolate stand for all of the kids and parents....Saturday night I came home to homeade White Chicken Chili in bread bowls. I have the best husband ever. It was the most delicious chili I have ever had! It will definitely be our Halloween tradition!

Creamy White Chili

Mels Kitchen Cafe

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 medium onion, chopped
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 tablespoon oil
2 cans (15 1/2 ounces each) Great Northern Beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14 1/2 ounces) chicken broth
2 cans (4 ounces each) chopped green chilies (if you like less kick, add just one can)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup whipping cream

In a large saucepan, saute chicken, onion and garlic powder in oil until chicken is no longer pink. Add beans, broth, chilies and seasonings. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes. Remove from the heat; stir in sour cream and cream. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve immediately. This is especially good served with tortilla chips. Makes about 6 servings.
*Brock shredded the chicken because that is how we love it and I think next time I will use half and half instead of whipping cream so it is a little lighter

mr. and mrs.

2010-09-27T23:57:00.005-06:00

more to come soon...

Ashlee Raubach Photography

engaged!

2010-03-28T21:50:00.005-06:00

Friday night was quite a surprise when a package I expected to have a shirt from Forever 21 in it turned out to be a diamond ring! Surprise!...and a lovely one at that! Exciting times for Brock and I ahead! Can't wait......

delightful find....

2010-02-25T13:41:00.009-07:00

I stumbled across this beautiful, old dresser drawer and instantly fell in love. I loved the color, the worn paint and the adorable hardware and key hole. I knew right away what I wanted to do with it....

My laundry closet....yes, just a closet....is my favorite now.

exposed.

2009-12-16T23:34:00.006-07:00

Meet Brock.

He is my boyfriend...most of the time.

Brock=studying, studying, studying for FINALS.

.....SOO....I think I'll rearrange, rearrange, rearrange.

I decided to take my cabinet doors off to EXPOSE all my white dishes that I LOVE. {thanks taisj} I've been wanting to paint my boring wood cabinets to lighten up my kitchen but haven't mustered up the courage yet...This is a quick fix for now but it already feels lighter!

happy birthday mom!

2009-10-27T00:04:00.006-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to the most amazing woman I know! You are the strongest, most positive, truly amazing woman I know. I look up to you so much. Love you more than anything... hugs and kisses and lots of them on your special day! P.S. To everyone that has been so wonderful...THANK YOU, THANK YOU for your words of encouragement, prayers, flowers, cards, gifts, meals, and last, but not least, company!! Words cannot express the appreciation from me and my family. She came home from the hospital for a third time now earlier this evening and gets to be home for a week before she goes back for another surgery...

Please Pray for my Mom

2009-10-06T18:39:00.002-06:00

Many of you know my mom is in the hospital (for those of you that don't, she had to have surgery due to a sickness she has been battling for almost 4 years). It's day 13 now and she is still not well enough to come home. Please keep her in your prayers. Thank you.

Oh Sweet Sadie and aLpHaBeTs!

2009-09-18T21:40:00.012-06:00

What you ask?? Oh Sweet Sadie is a 'traveling boutique' that is sure to delight your fancy...especially if you heart Farmer's Markets and the like. Oh Sweet Sadies features over 80 talented local artisans; beautiful clothing for adults and children, original home decor, everything for baby, retro toys, neck ties for your man, scented candles, pettiskirts, card and gift tags, mineral makeup, jewelry galore, funky hair accessories, vintage cake plates, useful notepads, designer jeans, original art work and photography, beautiful handmade quilts, dress ups, adorable ribbons, gumballs, scrumptious baked goods, homeade candy, games and toys for girls and boys, and oh so much more!

*Note, while you are there, check out 'Oopsie Daisy', a new children's boutique in Daybreak. I hear it is adorable! They have everything you need from pregnancy all the way through- maternity clothes, furniture, beautiful children's clothes, shoes, toys, and gifts. A B.G. client was in today and she has been helping with the opening of the store and said it is wonderful!...{{Wish I was prego and could partake of its cuteness}}

Where you ask?? SoDa Row, Daybreak's new Retail Shopping District

When you ask?? Tomorrow! Tomorrow! Tomorrow! 9:30 am- 8:00 pm
I am going right after work...can't wait!

And speaking of work....the Black Goose Design is bustling with aLpHaBets...

New aLpHabeT charms and aLpHaBet letters to decorate with...cute chunky painted and distressed letters! Who knew letters could be so fun?! I will post some pictures soon..when I find my camera!

F is for FALL...F is for FAVORITE!

2009-09-08T23:38:00.007-06:00

I think Fall is the most delightful time of the year! I love the smell of pumpkins burning around Halloween, I love how the colder air feels so crisp, I love the colors in the mountains, I LOVE Fall clothes (you can layer and layer and layer--scarves, tights, boots, hats..so fun!), I love drinking hot apple-cider, curling up with a book and turning the fireplace on....I could go on and on. These are some of my favorite Fall ideas. I want to have a little dinner party just so I can make place cards in mini pumpkins and then maybe I will serve SCARY spider-web cookies for dessert (or even better, do that treatment on chocolate cupcakes!!)

{Recipe Spotlight}

If you like apple-cider as much as I do, you will really enjoy this recipe...

.::Hot Strawberry-Apple Cider::.
8 cups apple cider or apple juice (Tree-Top is the best!)

1 10 oz. package frozen sliced strawberries

4 inches stick cinnamon

1 teaspoon whole cloves

Fresh strawberry or apple slices

Cinnamon sticks

Combine cider or juice, frozen sliced strawberries, the 4 inches stick cinnamon and cloves in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil and reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain through a sieve lined with 100% cotton cheesecloth. Serve with your favorite teacups and garnish with a cinnamon stick and fresh strawberry or apple slice. Makes 8, 8 oz. servings. Yum!

If only.

2009-08-06T19:14:00.003-06:00

Meet Elimovna.

She's from a darling little place called Anthropologie.

If only she were $29.80 instead of $298.00...

I would promise to love her forever.

If only.

Friday, Won't You Please Come Sooner?

2009-08-01T22:17:00.006-06:00

The next two Fridays promise delightful entertainment at the Box Office... Can't wait!!

If only I had more time to read...I would read both books before the movies come out...but I don't...so I think I'll just see the movies...maybe twice...perhaps three times.

.::Julie & Julia::.

Opens this Friday, August 7th

Meryl Streep is Julia Child and Amy Adams is Julie Powell in writer-director Nora Ephron's adaptation of two best selling memoirs: Powell's Julie & Julia: 365 days, 524 recipes, 1 tiny apartment kitchen, and My Life in France, by Julia Child.

Based on two true stories, Julie & Julia intertwines the lives of two women who, though by separated by time and space, are both at loose ends..until they discover that with the right combination of passion, fearlessness and butter, anything is possible.

Julie Powell, who was nearing thirty and trapped in her dead-end secretarial job, resolved to reclaim her life by cooking, in the span of a single year, every one of the 524 recipes in Julia Child's legendary Mastering the Art of French Cooking. Her unexpexted reward: not just a newfound respect for calves' livers and aspic, but a new life-lived with gusto.

Julia Child single-handedly created a new approach to American cuisine with her cookbook Mastering the Art of French Cooking and her television show The French Chef, but as she reveals in this bestselling memoir, she was not always a master chef.

Indeed, when she first arrived in France in 1948 with her husband, Paul, who was to work for the USIS, she spoke no French and knew nothing about the country itself. But as she dove into French culture, buying food at local markets and taking classes at the Cordon Bleu, her life changed forever with her newfound passion for cooking and teaching. Julia’s unforgettable story – struggles with the head of the Cordon Bleu, rejections from publishers to whom she sent her now-famous cookbook, a wonderful, nearly fifty-year long marriage that took them across the globe – unfolds with the spirit so key to her success as a chef and a writer, brilliantly capturing one of the most endearing American personalities of the last fifty years.

and a little more.....

After a little research, I found the original Julie/Julia Project blog (for those of you that don't know, Julie Powell started a blog in which she posted about each of the recipes in Julia's book and her quest to cook through them! You can find it here. If you would like to read a little bit about her current life, her latest blog is here.

.::The Time Traveler's Wife::.

Opens next Friday, August 14th

First things first...I think Rachel McAdams is absolutely adorable. I would see any movie that she was in. Second, I have heard that the book The Time Traveler's Wife is amazing (A Best-Selling Novel).

The Time Traveler's Wife is based on the best-selling book about a love that transends time. Clare (Rachel McAdams) has been in love with Henry (Eric Bana) her entire life. She believes they are destined to be together, even though she never knows when they will be separated: Henry is a time traveler--cursed with a rare genetic anomaly that causes him to live his life on a shiftime timeline, skipping back and forth through his lifespan with no control. Despite the fact that Henry's travels force them apart with no warning, Clare desperately tries to build a life with her one true love.

Dear Denise,

2009-06-30T22:32:00.003-06:00

.....And you will be missed dearly. Thank you for being such an amazing example, teacher, manager and FRIEND.

.:Rainy Day Recipe Spotlight:.

2009-06-12T00:00:00.009-06:00

Call me crazy, but I enjoy rainy days.

I think it is because we don't get them a lot (well, with the exception of this week). *Disclaimer: I must admit that every time I smile at the wet window pane when I wake up, I think of a poor bride that is getting married today who is probably not as thrilled; however, they say rain on your day of wedded bliss is a sign of good luck?....

There is something about the smell of a rainy day, the sound of the rain as it hits the rooftop and windows, and how the gloomy weather makes you want to put on your most comfortable jammies and read a good book by the fire. I love it.

It also makes me want to eat yummy soup and so I did just that. Taco soup to be exact.

I'm no Rachel Ray, but I would say my soup was delish'!

.:Taco Soup:.

1 lb ground beef

1 medium onion

1 package taco seasoning

1 160z can kidney beans (drained)

1 16oz can tomato sauce

1 16oz can corn (not-drained)

1 28oz can stewed tomatoes

Brown beef and onion. Drain. Add taco seasoning, corn, beans, tomatoes and tomato sauce.

Simmer for 1 1/2 hours.

I topped mine with tortilla chips, cheddar cheese, sour cream, olives, and fresh cilantro (may substitute cilantro for green onions).

Enjoy!

Twilight!!...and I'm not talking about Vampires

2009-05-30T22:35:00.009-06:00

2009 Twilight Summer Concert Series is almost upon us! This summer brings the 22nd season of the Twilight Concert Series at the Gallivan Center in Downtown SLC. If you have never been, you are truly missing out on one of the best Summer night experiences in SLC [especially for the 20-40 something crowd]. This year's lineup is promised to 'present a progressive mix of alternative folk and rock to new voices of hip hop and beyond'. My favorite part you ask??...it's FREE. Where else can you spend a warm Thursday Summer evening with friends, live music, food and beverage vendors and a little Farmer's Market feel with local artists selling an assortment of handcrafted items?? The Series opens July 9th [with one of my favorites Bon Iver (click here and here )] and continues through August 27th. Can't wait!

The BacHeLoRette!!

2009-05-18T23:53:00.008-06:00

I remember my Freshman year Writing class up at the U. I had a quirky teacher that loved to talk about really random things before he got class started (like taking 20 minutes of the class to discuss whether or not we would eat a perfectly good-looking hot dog left on a bench at a baseball game)?? Yeah...I don't quite get it either...

One day he asked everyone to share their guilty pleasure t.v. show. I remember thinking...I don't really have one...Well that soon changed! I don't think I have missed an episode of The BacHeLoR/BacHeLoRette in the last 5 years.... No, I am not proud to say it is the one television show I cannot miss, but yes...I love watching people fall in LoVe (I think you can call it love--I mean Jason fell head over heels for Melissa...I mean Molly.

Meet JiLLiaN...former Bachelor reject (I personally think she is a doll)...that now gets her pick at 30 men. Lets just hope that she has really flat feet or perhaps a little 'toe jam' to save her from Tanner...seriously how can you not watch this show. :)

a tisket..a tasket...wish you had a basket??

2009-04-29T00:03:00.007-06:00

I know I do...Actually, three of them please. I came across this delightful picture of Haskell Harris's kitchen ((former Special Projects Editor and Assitant Homes Editor at Cottage Living magazine and now covering style for Garden and Gun)) and as I was taking in the fresh, cool palette; the farmhouse apron sink; the open-ness with large windows and countertop to ceiling backsplash as opposed to cabinets....I stopped on the adorable wire baskets hung above each other on the beadboarded wall. I am not sure what it is...the fact that there are three hung above each other (most accessories look fabulous when grouped in numbers), the wire element perfectly complimenting the 'country' kitchen, or the fact that they are functional for all kinds of kitchen storage, but I just love this look. Lucky for me (and you!) we have a few of these baskets left at The Black Goose Design. I know what is going on my want list :).
View the pic LARGER here.
::photos via Urban Grace Interiors & Garden and Gun::

Dear Spring, Won't You Stay Forever?

2009-03-10T21:28:00.022-06:00

I LOVE Spring colors and...(naturally)..deCoRaTiNg with Spring Accessories. They are so light and refreshing! it doesn't matter if it is Fall or Christmas...these are the colors that I am drawn to. My personal favorites are vintage inspired florals and the color teal. I rearranged a bunch of my accessories the other day and here is what I came up with. Happy Spring!I don't really have a large space for an 'entry' and certainly not enough space (depth) for an entry chest, but I wanted to create an area that I could use as display and another opportunity for a lamp (you can never have enough accent lighting!) I moved this accent table and chair over as a quick solution. I just need to find something now for under the 'Welcome' sign. That empty spot needs a little something!I need to fill my glass jars!

I bought this Chalkboard (it is an old cabinet door painted with chalkboard paint) at the Downtown Farmers' Market last summer. I didn't have a kitchen valance and I loved the contrast between my wood cabinets and the white and black so it was a perfect fit! I haven't done it yet, but I am going to change 'Kitchen' to my Grandma's famous oatmeal cookie recipe.

Happy Birthday...Times Two!

2009-02-28T20:23:00.003-07:00

This past Friday was a birthday celebration for my cute, cute Dad and his new project Village Coin Laundry. He has been working so hard to get it open in time and Friday was the big day! My mom and I went out to visit him to wish him a happy birthday and to see his new store. It looked great! He always works so hard and I am sure it feels good to be done. HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD!! Love you.

Country Home...No Longer

2009-01-14T23:07:00.011-07:00

Bad news today...Country Home is joining Cottage Living in heaven. Yes, it is true. Country Home is no longer. Lack of ad buys and decreasing circulation led to the magazine's demise. According to The New York Times, in 2008 Country Home had 25 percent fewer ad pages than in 2007. The March issue will be its last.

I just don't know what I am going to do. I have to admit, I bought the February issue of Country Home a couple weeks ago and as I was skimming through it, I thought...I miss Cottage Living deeply...ha..but I suppose this can be my new favorite. There were a lot of cute spreads and (now ironically) it had more content and less ads than Country Living...Better for us readers I guess, but not so great for business.

The February issue had a darling spread on cute and functional organization ideas...perfect in time to fulfill those New Year's resolutions!

Girls' Night!

2009-01-08T20:06:00.003-07:00

Danielle, Taisja, Me, Beth, Hailey, Anj, Heath and Holly

(Hailey-I stole this pic from you because I didn't have my camera...so thanks girl!)
The other night a bunch of my high school friends got together for a much needed Girls' Dinner at Paradise Bakery. It was so much fun to see everyone and catch up! Thanks for the fun night (and thank you Dan for planning it!). See you next month!

Breakfast with the B.G. Girls at Brooke's

2008-12-21T19:54:00.003-07:00

Monday morning meetings get a little cozier! This past week we got to have our weekly Monday morning meeting at Brooke's house. She made the yummiest 'Egg Nog Cinnamon Bread Pudding'. If you would like the recipe, she posted it on her blog. What a treat! Thanks again Brooke!

Dear Cottage Living...Tell Me It Isn't So

2008-12-03T18:56:00.008-07:00

One of my favorite blogs to read is that of talented Interior Designer Erika (not sure her last name) whose darling blog you can find here. She also happens to be close friends with Anne Turner Carroll who is the Assistant Decorating Editor at Cottage Living (or should I say was....lucky for her she is incredibly talented and I am sure will find another amazing job)....Anywho, if you haven't picked up the November/December issue of CL, you best be heading to the bookstore for two reasons... First and foremost: Cottage Living is no more... I know, I know... it is just about the worse news in magazine-land. The Birmingham News reported that Time Inc. is "killing Cottage Living magazine." Must they use the word "kill"?? I think I might shed a tear... And for the other reason why you need this issue: There is a spread on Anne Turner Carroll herself, or rather her home; a delightful kitchen remodel and a little peek at her "Vintage Casual Christmas."

I absolutely love her Glass Paned French Doors that separate her laundry closet from her kitchen. I have been wanting to replace my pantry door with a similar look for a couple of months now and have been to George's (a.k.a. old door heaven) to look, but I haven't settled in on exactly what I want. Perhaps I will visit George again this Saturday...

Also, notice her adorable chairs in her family room. I would be willing to bet they are the LEE 3905-41 in Hunt Club Stone. Love this look too?? Come in to The Black Goose Design and purchase them for your home! Lucky for you, our Friends and Family sale is coming up Tuesday and Wednesday and custom upholstery is on SALE!

In case you are just silly and don't buy your own issue, I will scan and post the pictures from mine soon...

Here are the pics!

Lets Help!

2008-09-29T19:21:00.006-06:00

I was skimming through the October issue of Marie Claire the other day and came across an article that reminded me of how truly blessed I am...

The article, "F.Y.I. The Worst Places on Earth for Women," by Jihan Thompson states that although some of the world's 3.3 billion females are running governments and Fortune 500 companies, there are still places where women are systematically repressed and tortured. Thompson asked that we visit here and bring it to our congressional representatives' attention. Please read below and then copy and paste the facts in an email to your local congressperson. It will take five minutes of our time and it is the least we can do to help these women.

HAITI: Nearly 50% of women in the Cite Soleil, the capital, have been sexually assaulted--rape was criminalized only 3 years ago.
GUATEMALA: Since 2002, 2,900 women and girls have been murdered, 590 last year alone. The cases are rarely solved thanks to a corrupt and negligent legal system.
NIGER: Only 4% of women have access to contraceptives and 67% of births happen without a health professional on hand.
SIERRA LEONE: According to the article and the Human Development Report, this is the worst place to be a woman. Only 24% of women are literate, and one in eight die during pregnancy or childbirth. The life expectancy of a woman in Sierra Leone is 43.
DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO: In the country's decade-long civil war, gang rape, often involving the creative use of guns and machetes, is a common weapon.
AFGHANISTAN: Afghanistan has the highest maternal mortality rate in the world--every half hour a woman dies during childbirth. On top of that, domestic violence is endemic--87% of women have been assaulted by a family member.
NEPAL: The female literacy rate is at 35%. If girls aren't married off in their teens, there's a good chance they'll be sold by their families to sex traffickers.
PAPUA NEW GUINEA: Girls get just 5 years of formal education before going to work. They are also 4 times more likely than men to contract HIV.

Lets try to help! Take a minute and send an email...

Girly and Glam...

2008-09-16T23:21:00.011-06:00

I love this look. Perhaps a little Shabby Chic, but a tiny bit more tailored and a tiny bit more formal. I am going to call it Girly Glamorous.

I have a little obsession right now with the following colors... Taupy greys, aqua, mustard and a splash of pink just for fun. If I could create my fantasy bedroom, it would look like this. A mirrored chest, a french-provincial set of drawers (the style of the white one above but I would prefer it to be blue like the other one), an iron bed (of course and LOVE the one above--but if I had to choose an alternative to iron it would be the wood one below), a chandelier (I have this exact one and it was super cheap and (I think) super cute). There would be a tufted chair, a crystal lamp (isn't this blue one fun--look at it up close below--ADORABLE!), lots of damask fabrics, white hydrangeas, and an ecclectic mix of pillows.

Now for the bath... how about white honeycomb tile, a claw foot tub and a Louis accent chair.

I Heart Iron Beds

2008-08-29T23:17:00.012-06:00

Here are a few pictures of my bedroom with a new accessory that I just got from The Black Goose Design. I have a pretty espresso wood sleigh bed, but it has straight lines and is kind of boring. I really love iron beds. When we got these new iron scrollwork accessories in at The Black Goose, I knew just what I wanted to do with it. Jiola! I feel like I have a new bed! (Now, I just need to dust off my sewing machine and work on pillows...)

A few pics of California...

2008-08-08T20:07:00.003-06:00

Radin or Rubino??...I'm curious too

2008-07-20T18:25:00.033-06:00

I have a few favorite blogs that I love reading each week and in my searches today, I came across a delightful post, which raises (I think) a really interesting question. We all love the movie Something's Gotta Give for the breathtaking Hamptons house. In fact, my cute friend Stacy recently admitted that she watches the movie quite frequently just to adore the beautiful design. Apparently, we are not alone! Joni states "Never before has any movie house created such adulation. Countless numbers of kitchens were built copying the movie's kitchen. Scores of newspaper and magazine articles were written about the house. Google the subject and copycat house after copycat house pops up on the screen. Architectural Digest states that their article on the Hamptons house is their subscribers' all-time favorite piece. A Victorian Hagan cover for Elle Decor that looks very similar to the movie house was one of their best sellers ever."

When The Holiday came out, I remember a conversation among the girls at Black Goose. It wasn't how striking Jude Law was or how great Jack Black and Kate Winslet are together, but rather how we LOVED the two homes. Cameron's gorgeous beach house and Kate's adorable country cottage...both stunning.

The post I found today explained that the movies had a common interest. Nancy Meyers was the director behind both and in both movies the production team was led by Jon Hutman - but Beth Rubino, the wonderful set designer of Something's Gotta Give, was absent for The Holiday. So what is the question, you might ask? Nancy Meyers' personal interior designer, James Radin, has photos of Something's Gotta Give and The Holiday houses on his web site, but he is not mentioned in the film credits. So, who is the fabulous designer responsible for these materpieces? Is it Radin or Rubino? Joni explains in more detail why this question is not so easily answered. She says...

"James Radin, the interior designer from Los Angeles is credited at the end of Something's Gotta Give with a "Thanks." There is no hint given of what he did to deserve the thanks, but savvy viewers in the know are aware of Radin's unique contribution to the movie - he is Nancy Meyers' (the writer and director) personal interior designer. While Jon Hutman is listed as Production Designer and Beth Rubino is in charge of Set Decoration, it is Beth who has been truly credited with the house's design. What was Radin's role in the house's design? Apparently, Meyers so loves her own home and it's designer that she asked Radin to help out the production team. The big question and one that will probably never be fully answered is who truly designed the Hamptons House? Who came up with the interiors of the Hamptons House? In this article in House Beautiful, here is how Radin described his contribution:"

DONNA PAUL: You've designed houses in two hit movies by director Nancy Meyers, Something's Gotta Give and The Holiday. Are you a set designer or an interior designer who also does sets?

JAMES RADIN: I'm an interior designer. I designed Nancy's own house, and she asked me to help the production design team with Diane Keaton's house in Something's Gotta Give. She wanted it to look professionally decorated, like Diane's character would have had.

"So, at this point, it doesn't sound like Radin is the mastermind behind the Hamptons House (and the house from the movie, The Holiday, too - which I will discuss at another time.) But, the question of who really designed the house becomes even more puzzling when you take a look at Radin's web site. In his portfolio, which is not especially large, he shows photos from both the Something's Gotta Give AND The Holiday house. So, by putting pictures of these two movie houses in his portfolio, does this not officially put the question of who is the true designer of the Hamptons House to rest? Is James Radin the true designer of the beautiful Hamptons House, with its blue and white dhurri, its slipcovered sofa, the dark wood furniture, the beautiful slipcovered chairs in the dining room, the ironstone collection, the gorgeous farm kitchen with the black soapstone counters, and the peaceful cream bedroom with its soft, muted tones? If Radin is NOT the true designer of the Hamptons House, should the house be in his portfolio? And if he is the true designer, of the Hamptons House - doesn't he deserve more than just a "thanks" on the credits? How does Beth Rubino feel about the Hamptons House and The Holiday house showing up in Radin's portfolio?"

"Judging from his web site, Radin's work is truly reminiscent of the Something's Gotta Give house. You can see the similarities in his other work in his portfolio. Regardless of who is the true mastermind behind the SGG house, Radin is a true talent - he has a fresh, youthful look which is always calming and serene by his choice of colors. Radin likes to use dark wood furniture, light upholstery fabrics, cushy, down filled sofas and chairs, and rattan and wicker accent pieces. Again, he uses no dark colors, no velvets or silks, or chenille's - Radin has a "look" which he stays true to, despite the architecture of the home."

"While we may never know who is the true brainchild behind the Something's Gotta Give house, one thing is certain though, Radin's name is forever tied to the home. And even more so now since the house is included in his portfolio. Judging from the overwhelming popularity of the SGG house, this will be very, very good for his business longevity."

"The good news: Nancy Meyers is working on a new screenplay about a long term marriage, divorce, and relationship which she says will be completed this August. The starring roles call for one woman and two leading men. Sounds interesting! James Radin, her personal interior designer reports he is gearing up for a new movie set - is it Meyers new movie? I hope so!!!"
Joni- Cote de Texas

Here are some DELIGHTFUL pictures of the Something's Gotta Give and Holiday houses:

Something's Gotta Give

The Holiday

Cupcakes and Festivals

2008-06-24T01:16:00.007-06:00

This is a random post about cupcakes and a few reasons why Summer in Salt Lake City is so fun. For those of you that haven't been to So Cupcake in Salt Lake, you need to go. It is no Dear Lizzie as far as the decor goes, but it is a fun place to meet your girlfriends and catch up while enjoying a yummy treat.

Now, some fun things about Summer in SLC...
1) The Arts Festival. The Arts Festival is coming up this weekend and I am SO excited! It is Thursday-Sunday at Library Square Downtown.
2) Sundance Outdoor Films and Twilight Concert Series at the Gallivan Center. July 10th - August 28th, the Gallivan Center hosts Sundance Outdoor Films (every Monday night) and the Twilight Concert Series (every Thursday night). So fun and best of all they are FREE!
3) Downtown Farmers Market. This is always a fun part of summer. I haven't been able to make it yet this year, but my friend Brooke went Saturday and said it was great!
4) Art Market. I didn't make it to the Art Market this past Spring and was bummed to find out the next one isn't until the Fall, so I was pleasantly surprised to find this in my email inbox today. Jewelry and tea in the park....sounds like fun!

It is that time again!

2008-06-06T16:37:00.006-06:00

Grab your purse and your girlfriends and get ready! The June Farmer's Market at Abode is tomorrow! We are going to have a booth there selling cute home accessories, Black Goose Design's vintage jewelry line, adorable and delicious treats from 'Baking with Grace', cute purses, and 'Adelaide Pink' baby slippers. Come and see us!

Abode is located at 1720 South 900 East Salt Lake City, UT 84105 (801-486-2633)

a must read...and a must have

2008-06-03T00:14:00.006-06:00

If you don't read Country Living you are missing out! It is filled with creative inspiration every month from home decor to delicious recipes and cute gift ideas. I love it (it and Cottage Living of course) and if you are a reader then surely you saw this cute ad in the April issue for these fabulous planet-friendly (yet absolutely adorable) soaps. We got them in at Black Goose about a month ago and they were all gone in just a day or two. Lucky for you we got them in again and I am telling you, you need them! Simply put, they are wonderful!

mom and dad...love you

2008-05-30T23:46:00.009-06:00

I just have to tell you real quick how wonderful my mom and dad are and how much I love them. They are always doing things for my brother and me. Rarely does my brother golf in a tournament without my parents following along behind him, supporting him whether it's raining or 100 degrees outside and they are always doing things to help and support me too. My mom is the hardest worker I know, the best cook (although she totally lacks in the baking department and those that know her would not disagree--it's okay Mom, your vegetable medley makes up for it in and of itself). She is selfless, talented, loving, a great friend and a wonderful mom. And my dad might as well be superman. He can do just about anything and he is always the first person willing and wanting to help. He is also a great listener and always there to offer advice when you need it. My brother and I are truly blessed! We love you Mom and Dad!

kitchen love

2008-05-21T21:19:00.008-06:00

Came across these pics in Southern Living and had to post them because I love everything about this kitchen... The painted floors, the aqua cabinets, the taupy-grey ceiling color, the lighting...just love it!

meet fifi lapin

2008-05-20T22:24:00.012-06:00

So I have come across my new favorite blog of the week.... drum roll please.... http://fifi-lapin.blogspot.com/ (Kelly this post is especially for you as I know you would find great joy in it!) I mean we all know the great frog with his fancy cigar, but this bunny wears couture! I honestly wondered if fifi lapin's mamma was you...
Seriously...so cute.

3rd and 3rd...so retro, so fun!

2008-05-12T21:46:00.008-06:00

If you like antiques and other vintage items, you should take a little stroll down 300 S. and 300 E. in downtown Salt Lake City. The entire street is lined with little antique shops, sure to satisfy your craving for a new vintage find for your home. I have been going to Retro Rose for years and he always has fun things, but my favorites this last time were the vintage food packages and tins from the 1950s-60s at (I think it was Jitterbug antiques...) They would be so cute as accessories in a kitchen!

Beautiful flowers and a little family history...

2008-04-27T18:10:00.031-06:00

Grandma, these are for you...
My grandma took us to Star Nursery in St. George this past weekend to show us this specific plant that she just loves (hearts and flowers--which I bought and can't wait to plant!) Star Nursery is a spectacular nursery and it is located in the beautiful and historic Washington Cotton Factory (est. 1865). My great grandmother's grandfather owned the factory at one point and my great Grandma lived in the little house right next to the factory.

Joy in the Garden

2008-04-26T01:59:00.016-06:00

Green thumb??...Here are a few gardening tips from the incredibly talented, Master Gardener Joy Bossi of 'Joy in the Garden' whom I had the pleasure of meeting this week. She was a doll! (I should also give a shout out to Cactus and Tropicals who provided the beautiful potted displays--including the evening primrose whose flowers last only one night, blooming as the sun goes down and then dying off at night--hence its name!)

When planting a container garden, pack the flowers in tightly, unlike traditional gardening where flowers need a little elbow room. Pack the potting soil also and continue packing until it won't pack anymore (potting soil should be moist when you start.)
Let your watering can (filled with water) sit out overnight to let the chlorine dissipate. Water should be tepid.
Continually replenish your fertilizers! Either put fertilizer in your water or use fertilizers that stay put (Osmocote). Slow release fertilizers are usually good for around four months.
At the nursery peek at the bottom of the flower or plant. If it is SOLID white, move on to another plant. Make sure you can see the soil in between the roots (this means the flowers are fresher.)
Avoid the "rocks in the bottom" method to make sure your pots have proper water drainage. Placing rocks in the bottom of your planter actually make less room for the roots to grow. Instead use the "pot in pot" technique. Pot your plants in a plastic pot with holes at the bottom, place it on top of an old jar lid (to raise it up) and place it in your decorative pot.
Unglazed terra cotta pots wick water away from the potting soil. They are great for succulents! Make sure to soak your pot in water first.
Herb gardens are great in containers! Don't limit them to traditional gardening.
Don't attempt to plant around the trunks of pine or spruce trees. If anything, shade loving plants planted around the edges do best.

For more info check out Joy for yourself! She is on Good Things Utah every Wednesday and Friday and has her own radio show every Saturday morning from 9:00-11:00 am on KNRS 570 am.

a little more adelaide...

2008-04-26T00:10:00.007-06:00

adelaide pink

2008-04-20T23:11:00.008-06:00

One of my many new projects... adelaide pink baby slippers. Check it out here for more pics and info!

the bliss of spring...

2008-04-16T21:49:00.009-06:00

I am so excited for Spring (if and when it will ever stop snowing)! I cannot wait to start going to garage sales and looking for cute vintage furniture!