Casual Everyday Jewelry Style for 2009

Everyone has a favorite go-to outfit in their closet. It might be a favorite pair of jeans and t-shirt combo, or perhaps a tried and true dress that makes its rounds every weekend. You can keep last season's favorites new and up-to-date by simply adding a few pieces of signature jewelry that will keep you out of a style rut, and give a fresh face to your fashion statement.

Florals – Warm weather, tropical vacations and summer sun all conjure up images of the beauty that nature has to offer. Lighten up darker pieces by incorporating a floral printed bangle bracelet or a floral shaped pair of earrings. Also look for floral cut out in earrings, bracelets and pendants, to keep the look lightweight and carefree. Don't be afraid to wear small print floral jewelry with large print floral fabrics. After all, this season is all about mixing and matching – prints, styles and cuts.

Beads – There are so many bead styles to choose from, there's something here to suit every fashionista. If you're go-to outfit consists of khaki shorts and a white blouse, keep with the earthly vibe by choosing natural cuts stones in muted colors like burnt orange, golden yellow and dusty rose. Or, add a look at me necklace in a go-get-em color like lime green or electric blue. Combine bead combinations until you find one that works for you.

Color – We've said it once, and we're saying it again – Colored accessories are a must-have. You can easily update jeans, neutrals, pastels and basic black with colorful jewelry that pops. If you're shy about trying new things, then opt for a small pair of drop earrings or a mid size bangle bracelet in a hue that you adore. Work up to larger pieces like statement necklaces or a dramatic pair of earrings.

Bracelet Trends for This Summer

This season, update your look by taking advantage of new up-and-coming bracelet styles that offer high impact style for just a fraction of the cost of a new wardrobe.

1) Big bold bracelets continue to dominate the style scene this summer. Chunky beads, oversize cuffs and bulky geometric shapes are haute, haute, haute. Wear one with a sundress, tank top or strapless beach cover up for just the right amount of glam.

2) Safari, tribal and ethnic inspired bangles are all the rage right now. Look for bracelets made from natural materials such as wood and cork. A little print can go a long way in adding interest and a focal point to your outfit.

3) Mixing different hued metals is big right now. So instead of piling on piles of gold or sterling silver bangles, try incorporating rose gold, brass, hammered metal and other textures to kick it up a notch.

4) Charm bracelets are always on the radar, and this year is no different. Try charm bracelets that use earthly materials like natural cut stones and charms in the shape of leaves, butterflies and your other favorite insects and animals. Wear your charm bracelet with other bracelets for a look that is all your own.

5) Nothing screams summer like bright vibrant colors such as citrus hues and bold jewel tones. Add a fun bracelet to a monotone outfit of white, black or neutral for a look-at-me outfit that is sure to capture all the right attention.

6) Layering is a must-do this summer. Whether it's thin bangle bracelets, beaded stretch bracelets or mid size cuffs, you've got to go big with your accessories this season. Don't be afraid to mix and match to create a unique style statement.

However you choose to wear your bracelets this season, have fun with them as you enjoy the lazy days of summer.

Related articles:
Big Bold Jewelry Steals the Scene
Fashion Trends: Spring and Summer 2009
Wedding Jewelry Trends: Summer 2009

Stephanie Pratt Hair

Stephanie Pratt’s Hairstyle

Stephanie Pratt the ‘always forgotten’ cast member of the popular MTV show, ‘The Hills’ has always had changing hairstyles. Some you loved and others you just couldn’t stand. She has long blonde locks that make her look ethereal when she does not mess with them too much.

The Hills: Fashion and Hairstyle: Stephanie Pratt

There was this one time when she had gone casual and sleek with her look and just let her honey coloured hair flow. There are two secrets to getting such hair, one, a flat iron and the other, hair serum.

The Hills: Fashion and Hairstyle: Stephanie Pratt Fashion

Wash your hair and apply a little bit of straightening product on it from the root to the tips. Then blow dry by running a flat hairbrush along with it. After you are done, straighten your hair gently with a flat iron. You are then good to go for 4 – 5 hours.

The Hills: Fashion and Hairstyle: Stephanie Pratt Hairstyle

Stephanie had also tried this retro look once, with her hair flying all over the place.
The volume had gone up by two notches in her usual sleek look. You can get this look with some hair rollers and a large barrel curling iron. Curl your hair a little without going over the top. To complete the look, a shimmery slim headband in the front part of your hair with the locks tucked inside would do

Find of the Week: Polly George Ceramics

I've been pining for a vase or a teapot from British ceramist Polly George for months now. I love how graphic and modern her all-white pieces feel and the three dimensional motifs lend the pieces a sculptural quality. Unfortunately, there are very few distributors of her products here in the U.S. and her prices are, while probably justifiable given the amount of work that goes into each piece, certainly not wallet-friendly. Sometimes though, patience and some strategic Internet shopping can pay off big time.

Online emporium 2Jane is a great online source for "of the moment" housewares from independent designers around the globe and is one of the few shops online that sells a selection of Polly George's goods. Last week, while killing time between meetings, I checked in and saw that several pieces were substantially discounted. Acting quickly, I ordered the Small Butterfly Vase, for a mere $30 -- and the piece normally sells for $115! Yesterday, the vase arrived in the mail and I was completely floored by the quality. First of all, this is bone china, not just stoneware. Secondly, it's really not that small (it's 12" high) and, finally, the craftsmanship is really evident in person.

Here are two other great deals to be found at 2Jane:

Mr. Jones Teapot, originally $120, now $30

Ribbon jar, originally $20, now $5

And, while not currently on sale, I love the Mr. & Mrs. Jones Juicers ($94/pair). They're just the right amount of twisted and would make a great wedding gift for a close friend.

So what do you think of Polly George's work? Is it your cup of tea (horrible pun intended)?

Week Five: A Tour Inside

Last Saturday Dave and I took Dave's grandmother and her best friend on a tour of our new house. Both widows in their 80s, these ladies drive around the South and Southwest volunteering their time and energy to various Christian charities and churches and I am constantly amazed by their energy and faith and we had a great time visiting with them. In any case, as promised, I took a few pictures of the inside to give y'all an update on the progress. I am still amazed at how much progress has been made in just about a month's time. After all, just a few weeks ago, the house looked like THIS.

When you step into the house, you're greeted by this two-story entryway and gently curving staircase (both two of my favorite features in the design). On the immediate right is the dining room; on the left, the study, which will be separated from the hall by french doors. Straight ahead is the family room, with kitchen off to the right.

The family room's primary feature is a huge wall of windows that overlook the backyard (right now, just a bunch of Texas red clay). The other prominent architectural feature is the fireplace, with large nooks on either side. Once we move in, Dave and I are hoping to create some built-in shelves/storage in each nook for books, pictures, and maybe even a small TV. This picture was taken from the kitchen, which will be separated from the rest of the family room by a bar-height counter.

The original plan also had a large nook over each of the lower nooks as well as over the fireplace. Fearing too many holes would make the wall look busy and just become collectors of useless ephemera and dust, I had them removed.

Since we toured the house late in the day, the long shadows made it difficult to photograph many of the rooms. Here's a shot though of our master bath in its current state, complete with the tub smack in the middle of the room, and a view into the closet and study beyond.

The entryway from the top of the stairs. I love the west-facing clerestory windows at the top, which will let in plenty of afternoon light.

Here's a shot of the exposed ceiling on the second floor. At this stage you can still see everything, including the huge amounts of wiring running through all the walls and up clear to the roof.

Unfortunately, I paid absolutely no attention to the location or number of recessed light fixtures in the house when we customized the plan. Since so many homes seem to come with limited lighting, I may have been a little afraid to actually get the answer and had already factored into my budget the likelihood of having some installed myself. After taking a close look though, the house appear to have ample lighting in the "public spaces", though it looks like I'll have to be added much of my own lighting to the bedrooms (which is fine, since I think recessed lighting can be a bit harsh for a bedroom anyway).

Alas, this picture is almost too dark to be worth posting, but I went ahead and included it anyway so you could see the window seat that's going into one of three bedrooms upstairs. I've always loved the idea of a window seat (though in practice how often does one actually sit in it?) and completely forgot that one was included in the design, so this was a very nice surprise on Saturday when I saw it.

This is Dave's "man room" (also known as the media room). The curved ceiling and small windows should give the room a nice, cozy feeling. By the way, does anyone know why some of the lumbar is hot pink? We had Borax (an anti-termite treatment) put on the lumbar used in the foundation, but that turns wood bright blue, not pink, so I have no idea why we've got pink here.

This week, much of the construction will be on hold while various inspections are done to confirm all the wiring, etc. is correct before they Sheetrock the walls. Once Sheetrocking begins (hopefully next week!), things will really start to come together and I'll be back with more updates.

Dressing for a Hot, Long Summer

I don't know about you, but the long weekend has me itching for a summer vacation -- and a few new fun and easy pieces to freshen up my wardrobe as I brace myself for four months of 90+ degree weather and high humidity. Cue J.Crew to the rescue. My go-to source for weekend clothing is offering several great lightweight summer dresses that are perfect for Houston's hot, long summer. Since many of these dresses, including the adorable bonbon dress shown below, are pretty simple, I'd kick things up a notch with bright summery accessories balanced by plenty of cool white.

Shown from top left:

Rafe New York stripe paisley large shoulder bag from Nordstrom ($196.90)
Steve Madden "Charrger" sandal from Nordstrom ($59.90)
Kenneth Jay Lane gold coin earrings from Bluefly ($35.10)
Cotton one-button cardigan in deep pink from Banana Republic ($49)
Jessica Simpson J354 sunglasses in white from Zappos ($56)
Michael Kors D-ring watch in white ($150)
Cotton bonbon dress in navy from J.Crew ($78)

Get an Instant Spring Update with a Statement Necklace

If you're looking for an affordable way to bring your wardrobe up to date this season, don't fret. You don't have to spend hundreds of dollars on new outfits to keep up with the latest fashion trends. Instead, you can add a bright statement necklace to many classic pieces that you already own. Here, we provide you with some tips on how to wear this style, and get the most mileage out of fun colorful necklaces that will surely get you noticed.

To update casual daytime looks, pair a multi-colored necklace with a standard jeans and a white tee. It's okay to go big and bold with jewel toned stones or citrus colored enamel pieces. This necklace should be the focal point of your outfit, so kick it up a notch with vibrant colors that are appropriate for summer. For a chic casual look, pair a simple yellow sundress with a contrasting necklace in blue hues, such as turquoise. You'll command attention, yet look effortlessly fresh.

To update a dressier ensemble, rev up the style quotient of a long dark dress with a pretty pink and purple beaded necklace. Choose pieces that not only make an impact, but ones that also make you feel happy when you wear them. If you're opting for a LBD (little black dress), the options for incorporating a statement necklace are endless. You can go with a costume-y piece with oversize faux gems in canary or emerald colors (think Angelina Jolie or Victoria Beckham). Or, throw in a call of the wild, and sport a fun ethnic piece that adds interest. Natural materials and earthly colors can turn a simple dress into a style statement.

So, take advantage of this season's trend of large, oversize necklaces. You can find some great affordable options online that will help to take last season's favorites into this season's re-inventions. Experiment with bold necklaces that use different materials to achieve a look that is all your own.

The New Take on Pearl Necklaces and Earrings

Pearls are classic and beautiful – known for their timeline elegance. They will always be in fashion, yet this season, there's a different take on jewelry made from these stunning natural stones. Designers and celebs are putting their own modern twist on pieces – ranging from drop earrings to multi-tiered necklaces and lariats. Enter the new age of pearls.

Necklaces – Typically, pearl necklace favorites have included single short strand, or a sole pearl dangling as a pendant. However, it's not just limited to your grandmother's style of pearl necklaces anymore. These days, pearls are being mixed with different types of chains and metallics and are being placed in settings that are fresh and unique. Today, thanks to style-setters like Michelle Obama, pearl necklaces are making a comeback in a big way. The stones are getting larger – some even as big as gumdrops. One of the best ways to incorporate a contemporary pearl necklace is to pair it with an LBD or a sleek blouse. For something different, try a lariat style chain, with pearls on either end. Or, for something a little edgier, opt for pearls on a thick chain link necklace, either asymmetrical or layered with other mix and match pieces.Earrings – Pearl stud earrings have their place, but this season, it's all about incorporating new takes on these old favorites. Look for earrings that have settings in rope-like chain, where the pearl is actually being held inside the metal. Another option is a thin wire hoop with pearls dangling from the end. This style is feminine and interesting. Pearl earrings also pair well with rhinestone encrusted clasps and florals, for a glamorous statement.So, if you're thinking about wearing pearl jewelry for a wedding, an everyday look, or a special night out, consider the new take on pearl jewelry that will keep you looking current and fabulous.

Read related articles:
How to tell if your pearl necklace or earing is real or fake

Audrina Patridge's Ponytail

Audrina Patridge’s ponytail secrets

Audrina Patridge likes to have shimmering strands which are pulled together in a side ponytail. There are some of the secrets of ponytail whether you like to sport a low, in middle or a high ponytail.

The Hills: Fashion and Hairstyle: Audrina Patridge is shining

There are certain tips to be kept in mind while sporting a ponytail:

Tip 1: A high ponytail will give a refreshing and an instant lift. These are transformed to taut and tight. Whereas medium ponytails, gives a great profile for the sassy look. As compared to these both the low ponytails are more seductive and can be pulled and draped in front of 1 side.

The Hills: Fashion and Hairstyles: Audrina Patridge's Ponytail

Tip 2: Whether you have a round, oval, square, heart or diamond shaped face, the ponies almost flatter every face. If you want to get a sassy look out of the ponytail add a hair fringe to compliment the shape of the face.

The Hills: Fashion and Hairstyles: Which Looks Hotter?

Tip 3: You may use the cords or the bungee bands to make your ponytail look clean and tight. The bungee bands will make the hooks are secured inside the hair.

Tip 4: The usage of Blax bands makes the ponies soft and loose. They can easily cut out with the help of a scissor which will save the hair from tugging and pulling.

The Hills: Fashion and Hairstyles: Audrina Patridge Hairstyle

Tip 5: Always blow dry your hair with the nozzle down the hair shaft, if you want to have a ponytail with a dress.

A Bright Idea from IdeaPaint

Chalkboard paint has become something of a phenomenon in the world of design blogs. In fact, it seems like the megablogs Apartment Therapy and Design*Sponge post just about weekly on yet another room featuring a chalkboard wall. And, while I love the idea of writable (and washable!) walls, there are some drawbacks to chalkboard paint (like chalk dust and dark green-black walls) that make it not always desirable or appropriate.

For those looking for a way to create a writable surface without the dark color or the mess, there's a great new alternative out on the market: IdeaPaint, a paint that quickly transforms any smooth surface into a dry-erase board. While IdeaPaint appears to be primarily marketed towards businesses and schools, there are a million applications for the paint in residential use as well. While I can't guarantee that IdeaPaint will be the next big thing in wall treatments, Metropolitan Home's inclusion of IdeaPaint in its annual Design 100 issue makes it a good bet.

Since I'm allergic to chalk dust, I love this as an alternative to chalkboard paint, which is getting a bit overplayed at this point anyway. Although I'm not quite ready to commit an entire wall to my random scribbles, I love the idea of applying IdeaPaint to the surface of an old desk -- it'd be like working on one giant notepad. For a seamless look, I'd take a sample of IdeaPaint to the hardware store and get a customized white (in a semi-gloss to blend in!) to paint the rest of the desk. Very slick.

UPDATE: Beth from Style Redux and Chinoiserie Chic sent over a slew of pictures showing some creative uses of chalkboard paint that could easily be done with IdeaPaint. A few of my favorites include:

Kendell Chalkboard dresser from PB Kids

($299.99, but an easy DIY with some IdeaPaint and an old dresser)

Chalkboard Eggs via This is Glamorous

(The glossy white of the IdeaPaint would mimic a real egg and would let you draw with colorful markers.)

Chalkboard Fridge via The City Sage

So what do you think? Is IdeaPaint a good alternative to chalkboard? If so, how would you use it?

Hues of Blue: Jewelry for Summer

When you think of summer, you probably conjure up images of hot days, BBQs, and of course, the beach. Summer is a perfect time for pool side lounging, and it's all about being surrounded by water and cool elements that allude to relaxation. The beautiful shades of summer are alive and well in this season's offerings of jewelry that will have you in vacation-mode in no time.

Blue stones ranging from deep navy to vibrant turquoise to muted sky blue are all the rage this season. You can incorporate them according to your style and personality for a fresh take on this year's "new black".One of the easiest ways to wear azure colored stones is to try long beaded necklaces in different lengths and styles. By layering mix-and-match colored pieces with metallic accents in gold or sterling silver, you'll achieve a classy and stylish look. Since one of the continuing trends is boho chic, try a new take on pieces that you already own – like a white peasant blouse or a long flowing dress. A few strands of natural beaded necklaces in blues and greens are just the ticket to creating a pulled together look. Generally, blues set against a backdrop of whites or neutrals are both eye-catching and chic.If you plan on wearing the shade of the season in head-to-toe monotone, add complimentary metallic jewelry. Navy outfits and nautical outfits are best complimented by yellow gold accents, such as wire bangle bracelets or classic gold hoop earrings. On the flip side, lighter blue fabrics look great with sterling silver jewelry that pops. Add a couple of simple pendant necklaces of varying lengths.Earthy blues and greens are the must-haves of the moment. They can feel organic and natural, or glamorous and chic. It all depends on the type of setting and the outfit with which you pair them. But best of all, you don't have to wait till the lazy days of summer to enjoy ocean-inspired colors that will have you dreaming of far off places.

Pale Hues: Summer's Must Have Jewelry

With the lazy days of summer quickly approaching, you'll want to update your jewelry box with pieces that are as light and breezy as the weather itself. These accessories are beach friendly, vacation approved and suitable for just about any everyday look.

Beaded necklaces are hot ticket items this year, so welcome summer with a chunky beaded necklace in a soft shade like baby blue, antique rose or muted yellow. These necklaces go great with neutrals, but you can also easily wear them with darker pieces in your wardrobe, to achieve a sense of balance. Another option is to dress up a peasant blouse or lace blouse with these feminine accents.Bangle bracelets are another must-have item, but if you're wondering which ones to invest in, and which ones to leave behind, maybe this will help. Summer jewelry should be effortless, chic and simple. Wooden bangle bracelets with painted patterns in soft colors do a great job at achieving this, and can be worn casually, or with a sundress. Thin wire bangle bracelets are also beautiful, but try something in a shade of rose gold for a contemporary twist.If you're looking for a simple way to update your go-to office apparel, then consider throwing on a cute pair of drop earrings in a natural stone of amethyst or opal. Beautiful unpolished rocks set in a simple gold or sterling silver drop will get you more mileage out of an old favorite. In addition, it helps to pull together your look from head to toe. Now, you can be sure that your first impression will be a stylish one.

Typically, the colors of spring have favored pastels and florals, but this year, it's a new take, with soft spoken beads, organic stones and earthy jewelry that compliments any style – from boho chic to classic and polished. So, step outside of the comfort zone and try these easy-to-wear styles.

Red Hot Number

Last week several customers commented on the beauty of the red coral in this necklace. Though it got lots of compliments, it just never really hit the mark, until someone said that it looked really plain and very long.

So with that in mind I pulled it and took it to the design board. I shortened the length to a nice 19” and then took it up a notch by adding faceted black Quartz scattered among the Coral and put more focus on the bottom with silver textured pillow beads. I also lengthened the dangle earrings just to add a little jazz.

Uniquely handcrafted gemstone jewelry at Timeless Designs.

Shopping Bags as Art?

photograph courtesy of Canadian House & Home

On Tuesday one of my favorite blogs Style Redux had a post (see HERE) on upcycling shopping bags as art work. While reading Canadian House & Home's special issue on Condos, Lofts & Apartments (which I found at my local Borders earlier this week while stocking up on reading material for the long weekend), I spied yet another example of shopping bags-turned-art in the guest room of a chic and feminine Toronto penthouse.

While certain high end shopping retailers and designers undeniably produce some outstanding packaging (I can think of few businesses that have managed to brand themselves better than, say, Tiffany's), I can't help but think this is the home decor equivalent of wearing a Gucci logo t-shirt; in other words, it's brand over style. Ultimately though, the question of whether we are attracted to the beauty/value of the thing itself or just what store it comes from it may be a bit like asking if the chicken or the egg came first. I just can't say unequivocally that Chanel No. 5 would smell as sweet if it were called by any other name and sold at CVS.

On the other hand, maybe I'm just overthinking this. After all, I do like the idea of reusing these admittedly attractive bags and framing them as art -- especially in a dressing room or large closet, should you be so lucky to have either -- rather than simply throwing them away. And maybe I should just leave it at that. Since I'd love your thoughts on the matter, I'll open this up to a vote.

poll by twiigs.com

Mix Turquoise & Amber

I bought this Amber in Tucson to go with a dichroic pendant; though I really liked the dark Amber with the dichroic, it just wasn’t ‘hitting me’. So, I dug into the stones and came up with this little gem…..


This Southwest beauty is a wild mix of Baltic Amber chips light to dark cognac hidden among Chinese Turquoise disks and gold accent spacers. All highlighted by a matching wavy Turquoise pendant. Wear it short or a medium length with matching dangle earrings in Amber chip clusters and Turquoise disks.

Handcrafted Unique Gemstone Jewelry

Summer Jewelry Trends

Wondering what the hottest summer jewelry trends are for the '09 season? This year, it's all about bold, bright and beautiful pieces that will make a fashionable statement day or night. Check out some of the top finds and what type of outfits will compliment your choices:

Warm weather color – This year, it's all about pieces that pop. Multi-strand beaded necklaces in cool colors like coral and turquoise look fabulous with neutrals. Alternatively, you can wear a bright mango colored necklace with a light blue sundress. Lightweight fabrics like gauze, linen and silk paired with chunky beaded necklaces offer a good balance and are complimentary. If you're planning on wearing a loose fitting flow-y dress, try chunky metallic jewelry accented with bright beads.
Bold pieces – Thick bracelets and rings in resin, plastic and wood are all the rage this season. You can add a whimsical feel to your jewelry look. Just one piece can add interest to your outfit. It's easy to find fun geometric shapes in attention-grabbing prints that are art deco or safari inspired. Wear this type of jewelry with a neutral palette or a romantic peasant blouse.
Bangles – They're still in, and the look of the moment is all about piling them on. Mixing metals is all the rage right now, with gold and sterling silver accenting just about anything in your closet. These versatile bracelets are great at complimenting classic pieces and shapes. This makes it both affordable and easy to update last year's favorites.

Costume pieces – Summer is the time for fun and playful jewelry. Don't be afraid to dress up for a night out on the town, and polish off your look with a great sparkly stunner. Nature inspired pieces like rhinestone encrusted ladybugs or fun youthful pieces like bejeweled cupcake charms are just the ticket for cool summer jewelry that doesn't take itself too seriously.

Coral and Turquoise Jewelry

It doesn't matter whether you're faired skinned, olive toned or have a rich creamy complexion, coral and turquoise jewelry looks great on most anyone. This summer, mix warm and cool colors together for a chic and fashionable look that any fashionista will appreciate.
For a casual boho chic style, pair lightweight summer sundresses with brightly colored beaded necklaces and flat sandals. One affordable strand in coral and turquoise is versatile enough to be worn with other items in your closet as well. For example, take a classic white button down shirt and add a pop of color with a great beaded necklace. Or, grab your favorite LBD and add fun pieces in eye-catching hues.

For nights out on the town, rev it up with gold metallic jewelry accented with turquoise and coral stones. A great bangle bracelet with a fun floral design can be the perfect ornamental piece to complete your look. You can wear the same bracelet to work any day of the week, with a sheath dress or airy blouse and tailored jeans.

If you're looking to add an everyday piece to your jewelry box, then consider just a splash of coral or turquoise in the form of a floral pendant or a bold cocktail ring. You can find some great pieces online that are fashion-forward and won't break the bank. Look for items that have fun details and unique designs.

So if you're looking for an easy way to reinvent an old favorite from your closet this summer, consider coral and turquoise jewelry, either worn alone, together, or with metallic pieces that create fashion-forward appeal in both warm or cool weather. Now, you won't have to wait to go on vacation to dress like it. You can bring the aura of tropical paradise to your look with fun colors that are reminiscent of happy days. So, what are you waiting for?

Necklaces | Earrings | Bracelets

Week Four: Windows and a New Look

After a rather unpleasant dental procedure today, I decided to take the rest of the day off work and spend the afternoon and evening out in the 'burbs with my mom (who was generous enough to drive me to/from the periodontist). Since her new house is just a few blocks -- yes, I've actually made the affirmative decision to live near my parents -- I couldn't resist dropping in to check on the progress. While I expected the shingles to be on and the roof completed by the end of this week, I had no idea they would also be installing all the windows! It's amazing how much a difference the windows make; it's really starting to look like a home now. This weekend we'll be giving the grand tour to Dave's grandmother who is in town for a visit and I plan on taking some interior shots then to post on here next week. The views from the second floor balcony are (for Texas coastal prairie, anyway) quite lovely.

Not to sing the praises of St. Obvious or anything, but tonight I also got a brand new look for Odi et Amo. What do y'all think? The lovely and talented Erin at Designer Blogs hooked me up with this spiffy new look for a really great price. To top it off, she even uploaded the new design for me, which was a "must" for me considering my limited HTML skills. While the wait time is a month to six weeks, if you're looking to perk up the look of your blog, I'd definitely recommend her as the end result is more than worth the wait. Thanks, Erin!