City Farmhouse

This Weeks Projects

2012-02-02T11:21:00.000-08:00

Lately I have been consumed with decorating. When I have this momentum I try to take full advantage because like most busy moms something more pressing is always around the corner.

So this past week I have finally completed some unfinished projects, I tackled projects I have been trying to start & I finally committed to some purchases. I don't know about you but I like choices, I woo them, I drag them out, hymn and haw until I make a decision or move on to something else.

But this week I actually made progress & I am super excited to share.

Bird Silhouettes

Ikea frames, cheap & pretty when grouped.

Picture Frame Re-Do

Before

After

I use craft paper on everything.

I love the color & texture.

This is a simple decoupage project using Mod Podge, craft paper & raw umber to age the edges. Bring your patience if you tackle this project but stick with it, it comes out beautiful.

It's a great way to transform picture frames especially if you are like me & have a ton of mismatched ones.

I absolutely LOVE how this turned out, they look like worn leather & give another layer of texture.

The Chairs

Before

After

I had been looking for 1 year for these & finally found them at Home Goods.

Gotta Love HG!

Silhouettes Of My Boys

I was surprised by how easy this was. I am going to do a DIY tutorial for this project next week.

Happy Thursday Everyone!

Thought I Would Share

2012-01-22T11:25:00.000-08:00

So this week I received a few things in the mail. Most of us order things via internet, it’s easy and for me shopping with a toddler isn’t easy, so instead of getting myself crazy I shop often online.

If anyone reads this blog, you know that I am in the mist of decorating my home. I have to tell you, it’s a process for me. I am always looking for the perfect finishing touches, which sometimes it takes a little longer to complete a room or a project but I love the process so I don’t mind. I scour through magazines, catalogues & my new favorite pinterest.

So when I have found something I love I want to share it!

I also tackled painting my master bathroom on our first snow day of the season here in NY. This was on the “to do” list for a year, but….you know how it goes when you have small kiddos. So it finally got done 1 year after moving in & wanted to share that also.

1. Number Door Decals

A while back I had seen a front door with iron numbers in the center & thought “I like that!” but at the time we were in between homes so I held onto the idea for another day. I was so excited when I found Leen the Graphics Queen on Etsy. Her decals are even better than the iron ones because they are removal & they don’t make nail holes, yeah!!!.

2. Canvas

I love the idea of adding a different texture when hanging photographs, adding a canvas print of a special photo does that. I searched online & found a great price at

The Canvas People. This is 16 x 24 and it’s perfect! I love it!

3. Paint Color

So like I said we tackled the bathroom. I like to paint & my husband has the patience to tape (not me) so we split the job. I used one of my favorite paint colors, Sprig of Ivy. It is an Olympic Paint at Lowes, I liked the brand because it has low to no VOC's. It sounds green but it’s a very organic & serene color. I love to mix it with lots of natural textures and colors.

The Before

It's hard to tell with the lighting but this was a bright cottage green.

The After

4. Brooke Burke Video

I know this has nothing to do with decorating but I have been trying to loose my baby weight for almost 2 years & this summer I began running again & LOVED it but….living in the NE the weather can be a little iffy. So I wanted to have a backup, I bought a few videos over the last few weeks and didn’t like them. I am NOT coordinated at all, I have 2 left feet. This video is super easy to follow & SOOOOO effective! I found it at Amazon.

Happy Sunday!

My Kitchen

2012-01-14T12:32:00.000-08:00

Finally…..getting around to photographing my kitchen.

I still need to paint but I wanted to take some shots before it got messy again,which will actually be in less than 1 hour when the boys come home:).

In my dreams I created a kitchen like this, never thinking I would actually have it someday.

I am so grateful to have this space to build & share memories with my family & friends!

Keeping Christmas Simple

2012-01-01T17:26:00.000-08:00

I wanted to keep our Christmas simple this year.

I wanted it to be reflective of who were were as a family.

We had a running theme through the season which was the Polar Express. No matter how many times we watch it, it's inspiring every time. My son asked me a few days before Christmas if I still believe, I said"YES!" The idea that miracles can happen if you believe they can. A simple idea that is sometimes lost in the day to day shuffle of life.

We spent Christmas Day by the fire, eating, sharing stories and laughing, celebrating our faith and our time together as a family with our family & dear friends.

I couldn't have asked for a better way to spend the day.

Here are a few photos from our Christmas table.

Happy New Year!

First Christmas In Our Home

2011-12-31T12:10:00.000-08:00

This Christmas was extra special because it was our first holiday in our new home. I can’t tell you how good it felt to walk down OUR stairs with OUR boys on Christmas day.

Shane was so thrilled that Santa remembered that we moved & actually found our new home that every gift he opened was extraordinary. He was so cute, on Christmas Eve I found him scooping ash from the fireplace & when I asked him what he was doing he said he didn’t want Santa to get dirty. That’s Shane as thoughtful as can be. He made sure that John, Jack & I had gifts to open from him. Little did he know our best gift was him & Jack. I am not sure Jack knew what was going on but he enjoyed his trains & cars and the boxes.

Here are a few moments we shared on Christmas.

Happy New Year to you & your families!

Twas the Night Before Christmas

2011-12-24T12:25:00.000-08:00

Warmest wishes from our home to yours for a happy & healthy holiday season!

Enjoy The Small Things

2011-11-30T12:54:00.000-08:00

Enjoy The Small Things For Someday They Will Be The BIG Things.

Gratitude

2011-11-24T06:06:00.000-08:00

"Gratitude runs deep in my heart, it is the foundation of my spirit."

Today & everyday I am grateful for:

Family

Kindness & generosity of others

Old friendships

New friendships

Wisdom acquired

A place to call home

Personal growth & self-awareness

Days spent at the beach

New beginnings

All the yesterdays

Dreams big & small

Meaningful happiness

Abundance of love

Memories of love

Family traditions

Life’s blessings big & small

Most of all every day I spend with them.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Holiday Traditions

2011-11-18T17:16:00.000-08:00

Every year since I was a little girl my mother would give me an ornament on Christmas Eve. It was a tradition and it was something I looked forward to as it would always hold a special meaning for us. She would hand write in her beautiful penmanship a note along with the year.

I didn’t realize then what an important and meaningful tradition she had begun. I am not sure why she started it (I wish I knew) but she obviously had an idea this would mean something years to come.

So each year with her memory I sit down with my boys on Christmas Eve and carry on her tradition. I give them each their own special ornament along with a little message and the year. After that we hang my childhood pieces my mother gave to me and my oldest will always pick a few and ask me to tell him a story about it.

I love that he asks, it keeps the memories alive and not forgotten .

I hope in years to come my boys will carry on the same tradition with their families and have a few of their own stories to share.

One can only hope:)!

Enjoy!

City Farmhouse

Happy Halloween

2011-11-06T10:33:00.000-08:00

Every year since my son Shane was 2 he has had a very strong opinion about what he wanted to be for Halloween.

This year he couldn't make up his mind, but he knew he wanted to be something scary. Well, I didn't think that was such a good idea for many reasons & keep in mind this wasn't just skeleton scary he wanted to be blood & gore, gross scary.

Not sure were this came from but I tried my best not to encourage this by not committing. Instead my husband & I tried to encourage him to be something else.

I want my boys to feel confident & proud when they have an idea, I never want to be that parent that has perimeters of how & who they can be but..... there are those times we have to be parents, a fine & delicate balance.

So the Sunday before Halloween we knew we had to decide, it was crunch time. Hours of negotiations, finding costumes we could agree upon only to find them sold out.

Finally he says, "How about I be Shaun White?" You would have thought our favorite team had just won the Super Bowl. We stared yelling & screaming, telling my son, Shane that his idea was one of his best yet! We made him feel soooo good & he deserved to feel good, he solved the problem on his own and found an amazing solution, one that I knew no one else would have.

So a lesson learned, don't be in such a rush to find an answer, sometimes the best answers take time & the best part- my six year old taught me that!

Happy Halloween!

First Day Of School

2011-09-07T08:24:00.000-07:00

How is it that my little boy just started first grade this morning.

It seems like just yesterday he was hugging on my leg, barely walking or talking.

Yet today he goes out into the world all dressed up in his high tops, plaid shirt & "cool dude" hair, ready and eager to make new friends and very excited to learn.

This is a bittersweet day for me. We have had so much fun this summer, we had great conversations, laughed a lot and hugged a lot. We did fun things, traveled and explored.

For now we close this chapter and open a new one. His journey is just beginning; he has so much ahead and so much to be excited about.

I will not be sad today, I will rejoice with him, for him.

“The days are long but the years are short.”

I heard this saying when Shane was very little; it’s something I try to remember often as these moments are over in the blink of an eye.

So for now I will store this day in my heart along side with all the other cherished times in my life.

Happy 1st Day of School!!!!

Believe You Can

2011-07-14T12:18:00.000-07:00

City Farmhouse

This past Sunday I ran a 5k race in my hometown of Bellport, NY, it was a race I hadn’t ran in 10 years (pre-baby days.) Last July I wanted to run the race but something inside said “you can’t.” I just had my son in March, was still recovering from my c-section. I was good at making excuses not to run the race ultimately because I didn’t want to fail or not be able to finish.

This summer I just said to myself “I am going to do it!” I started running one day instead of walking and each day I pushed myself further and further. Some days it wasn’t easy but I kept going.

Race day came, I was tired & a little nervous, my competitiveness kicked in, I had something to prove to myself. The whole time I was running I kept thinking “believe you can!” Oh my goodness, it was hard to get through & it was hot but I wasn’t going to stop, NO WAY.

I finished the race, of course I wanted to do better but I realized sometimes it’s not about winning or the end result but sometimes it’s about the journey we take & lessons we learn about ourselves along the way. An important message I will carry with me as a mom.

My son asked me yesterday, “mommy why did you want to run the race if it was so hard?” So I said “sometimes when things are hard & sometimes scary and we actually push ourselves to do it, it makes us feel good inside, it builds us up and makes us better.” He said “yeah, that’s what swimming does for me, sometimes it’s hard but I feel really good after.”

That right there is why I am glad I did it!

Updates

2011-04-01T08:08:00.000-07:00

Where do I begin?

Where do I start?

It’s been a LONG time since my last post.

After some thought I decided let me just update everyone!

The last year + has been a little crazy but how can I really complain

when we have had so many blessings come our way.

Last March we welcomed another baby boy, Jack Thomas.

The year has flown by, I think that is typical after you have had your first.

He just celebrated his first birthday, yeah!

Happy 1st Birthday Jack!

Shane went to kindergarten in September.

That was monumental, probably for my husband & I more

but it’s one of things

that you never think is going to happen and then all of

the sudden it does,

bittersweet.

Before

After

And we finally found a home. I never thought it would happen,

especially here in New York but we found the right house at the right time.

I am officially a “patient” person!

I thought I had patience before (having children does

teach you a thing or two about that )

but as it turns out waiting 4(long) years

to own your own home again was the real lesson in

PATIENCE.

“Good things come to those who wait,” how many times have a heard this?

Well it’s true!

Welcome!

Every Once In A While

2009-11-11T13:12:00.001-08:00

Every once in a while in the fall on Long Island we get a surprise, an Indian Summer day. When this happens we take full advantage because the winters can be long, wet, cold and rough!

Not too bad for a day in November -68 degrees.
So we headed to the beach, the Atlantic Ocean. It's my favorite place to go on a mild day. Lots of sounds, breathtaking views, the smell of salt water in the air and lots of shells, beach glass and drift wood(for signs). My son Shane.

Amazing, just beautiful!

Entertainment for the whole family and it's free!

Nothing like a little weekend volleyball game on the beach in November to relieve a little stress.

Me 6 months pregnant and it's a boy. Another little boy, Shane is pretty excited as are we.

My son-the jumper. I guess it's a phase but thank goodness for these sand drifts it wore him out! He slept good.

Some shells for the baby's room, I am thinking a beachy cottage feel would be nice.

Shane and I.

Ta da!

Today is a Gift

2009-10-13T11:11:00.000-07:00

I am reminded today of what a gift it is to be alive.

I woke up this morning to “mom can I come in your bed?” My husband was getting ready for work and I was half asleep, gladly I said “sure.” My son Shane wanted to talk about his Halloween costume. Realizing he wasn’t going back to sleep I got up out of bed to get a much needed cup of coffee, I stood up and looked over at him and he was smiling at me, I thought these are the moments! I am a lucky woman to be here for this morning with my son.

Could you ever imagine not being there for those simple everyday moments with your child or children?

Three years ago today my sister past away unexpectedly leaving behind 3 children; a young boy and 2 teenage girls. My sister was an AMAZING mother, there for her children every step of the way. She was their biggest cheerleader and greatest fan.

They lost someone extraordinary that day, their lives will be forever altered and eternally changed. She loved them so immensely and they knew that everyday. Though she is gone the love she gave will transcend time and death. Those little everyday moments will be remembered and forever cherished and in years to come will be told in a story to her grandchildren or even their children.

Her legacy of love will live on and not be forgotten.

Be grateful today for all of you who are mothers and fathers. Embrace this day with your children, do something unexpected with them, for them. Hug them a little longer, tell them how much you love them, be in the moment with them, take it in, the way they look, the way they smell, their laugh, their smile and savor it.

Feel blessed you are here to encourage them to follow their hopes and dreams, to be unique, strong, confident, kind and generous in spirit. We get one shot at this to shape these young people, everyday counts, everyday matters, everyday means something extraordinary to them.

We get so caught up in our daily lives and the day to day grind of life (me included) that we forget to embrace each day and all the blessings and the people we are lucky enough to love and love us.

In memory of my dearly loved and deeply missed sister Jacquelin and in honor of her children feel lucky for this day with your children and loved ones, make it count, make it mean something.

“Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery and today is a gift, that is why they call it “The Present.”

I'm Back!

2009-10-01T10:18:00.000-07:00

I know that some of you may have been wondering where the heck I have been. I have been out of the loop big time and I so apologize to all of my blogging friends for being gone for so long. I do have a good excuse. I am 16 weeks pregnant and I have been SO sick for most of it.

I was sick while I was pregnant with my son but not this sick, so many crazy things happened to me this time. While I was sick I spent a lot of time feeling guilty for not being over the moon and blissfully happy everyday. I am not sure many people who are vomiting everyday can be happy but just the same, I am a mother and an Irish Catholic, so yes guilty I felt. Until a routine doctor's visit changed my perspective. Feeling awful, like I had the flu I looked at a poster on the wall, it was a growth chart of a fetus and it hit me like a ton of bricks, "what an amazing miracle." Having a child already I have thought this a million times but this pregnancy was so hard that I spent a lot of time just getting through each day while trying to still be the best mom to my little guy. So anyways there I was looking at this poster and thinking how lucky I was, TRULY LUCKY to be a women and how blessed I was to be carrying this child. It's really is all how you look at things in life. If you start your day thinking and believing that you are lucky and feeling grateful and happy then it makes life that much sweeter, that much better and you realize it's all worth it.

Off to get something to eat! Have a great Saturday everyone!

First Interview and Giveaway

2009-07-20T04:24:00.000-07:00

Lory from The Sunshine Studio has been gracious enough to interview me and with that she is doing a giveaway. She will be raffling off either my Maison de Plage-Beach House pillow or my new Tattered Flower Necklace.

I hope everyone is having a lovely summer!

Flower Frenzy

2009-07-09T04:04:00.000-07:00

I love flowers, smelling them, growing them, looking at them but most of all I like wearing them.
Especially in the summer, throw on a cute little dress and a simple flower accessory and you're ready to go.
I thought I would share my new muslin flower necklaces and some other designs that I adore this season.

I love brooches of any kind so I thought why not combine them with some different textures. Necklace by City Farmhouse .

I just love the flower on this cuff by Paperhill.

The way the colors and textures play off each other is stunning.

This ring is by The Sunshine Studio .

Just delightful, these blossoms are by Pneumo .

This beautiful simple sage necklace is by Mia Beads .

How romantic is this darling Toasted Almond Ring by Whimsy and Ink .

A sweet addition to any wedding, a bridal flower cuff by A Alicia Wedding .

Tastefully simple are these vintage bobbi pins by Crytal Beutler .

Life Experience

2009-07-07T16:50:00.000-07:00

It's this birthday that I am a little wiser, a little braver, and a lot more grateful for the many blessing I have. I embrace my years and my journey for they are molding me to be better, that is the beauty of "Life Experience."

I realize this year more than any other that my wealth is defined by my family and friends. It's the years that have been shared, the lessons that have been learned, the roles that have changed, the help that has been given, the tears, the joys and the dreams that have been shared, the support and the love but most of all it's been the "everydays" with them that have made me better, "richer."

Families are the compass that guide us.

They are the inspiration to reach great heights, and our comfort when we occasionally falter.

-Brad Henry

A Special Birthday

2009-07-05T17:46:00.000-07:00

Today is my 36 birthday!

My sister had a small birthday party for me, it has been years since I had a birthday party, it was really nice.

We were all talking and reminiscing, which I love. I love it because I feel like I missed so much growing up because my siblings were so much older and also because I forget things, a lot(pregnancy really did me in). Anyways, my sister started talking about the night I was born and how exciting it was for her, she was 10. She told me that my mom was washing the dog that day(which we actually have a picture of) and painting a dresser outside(the apple doesn't fall too far from the tree.) It was around 9:30 at night when she went into labor, my dad called my nan who was at a pizza parlor a couple towns over and she rushed over to take care of my 2 sisters and brother. They left for the hospital at 11:00pm and I was born at 1:29(my son was born at 1:29 also, what a sweet coincidence). By this time my father had been chiming in through the outside window so I went out to talk to him, his eyes welled up with tears and he said "he remembered it like it was yesterday." It was at that moment I realized how significant those few moments of conversation were. I probably heard details before but I had never heard them as a mom myself. My eyes welled up with tears as my heart sank thinking of how much I missed my mom, the women who carried me for 9 months, endured the aches and pains of pregnancy and who loved me for 23 years.

Needless to say the night was extremely memorable. One I won't forget.

My Wish List

2009-06-26T05:08:00.000-07:00

I went for a run last night to the bay and as I rounded the corner a saw a boat moored off the docks. It was a boat I hadn't ever seen and it was old & very beautiful. It looked so peaceful out there by itself with the the sun setting in the background(first sunset in a long, long time with all of the east coast rain).

I said to myself " I want that." The beauty, the peace, the excitement(and yes the work). I also said to myself "not now but maybe someday."

So I started to think about all the things I would like to do/have in my lifetime.

A wish list so to speak. So here is goes.

1. Own a sailboat.

Big enough to sleep and cook, maybe 36-40 ft, nothing huge. Use is for short trips, moor it more than sail it.

2. Travel

I would like to go to France, possibly visit where my grandfather was born, Nice would be nice. Ireland, visit where my mothers family was raised. Defiantly Italy, anywhere. And a trip back to California. I would also like to revisit Aspen, CO, that's were my husband & I fell in love(maybe an anniversary, alone!).

3. Be featured in a publication.

Any publication, even the local paper, it's been a dream since I started doing this 14 years ago.

4. Own a big old house on a good piece of property.

I love to dream of owning an old house again. I have redone an old house in the past so I am not naive about the work. This time I would be smarter though, I would PAY someone! I just adore all of the details & the history an old house has to offer.

5. Own an old cool vehicle to putts around town in.

I love those old Jeep Wagoners, again not naive to the work, I have had MANY old beaters.

6........

That's were I got stumped. I was now walking trying to think of what else I would wanted. Nothing.........Blank.........

The thing is, that in my lifetime I do want things but not as much as I want the intangibles.

6. I want happiness and health.

7. I want love in my home.

8. I want to make memories my children will remember all of their lifetime.

8. I want them to know that they are loved!

9. I want more good days than bad.

10. I want to still be an optimist in 20-30 years.

11. I want to always be learning & growing.

12. I want to always have a young spirit.

13. I want to give back.

14. I want to be grateful for all the things I have instead of the things I don't have.

The list could go on & on but I will spare you:).

So there you have it my wish list.

Does anyone else dream like this or I am the only sap?

"My Dream Came True"

2009-06-22T04:39:00.000-07:00

I have past this house hundreds of times and each time I get just as excited to see it as I did the very first time. It gives me the feeling of "anything is possible." If this person's dream came true and he or she was so inspired to write in on their barn and scream it from the roof tops so to speak then "WOW," it must have been a pretty amazing dream someone had!

I often wonder if the dream was to move out to the country, live on acres of land & live a simple life.

Maybe Darlene or Megan know what the dream was(they live nearby).

On second thought maybe some things are better left a mystery!
Just beautiful!

New Rouched Necklaces

2009-06-16T07:10:00.000-07:00

I love the feeling of creating something new for the first time.

I could have a million other things to make but sometimes a need just comes over me to make something new & I have to just go, do, design & make, otherwise my mind is restless(it's a problem). Anyone relate?

Anyways, I decided to raid my notions and fabric stash over the weekend and found some beautiful pieces I forgot I had.

I have always loved the look of crystals & pearls. And there has been plenty of inspiration out there with rouching fabric and trimmings. One word to describe the blend of textures and hues, "romantic."

Perfect to wear for date night. I wore the camel lace with my white outfit. I never go out looking for compliments but I am always happy when I do. The validation for a creative person, well you all know how that goes......

Six Year Anniversary

2009-06-14T04:35:00.000-07:00

Six years ago today on the ONLY sunny day in June I married my best friend John.

Through the last six years I can honestly say, I wouldn't change a thing.

We have lived in Colorado, owned a new home, got pregnant, moved cross country to VA, had a flood in our NEW home while it was for sale, had to move back to Colorado 4 weeks before my son came and drove back(crazy), got preclampsia, had a c-section 2 weeks early, had a beautiful baby boy, loved our son, sold our house in Colorado, moved back to NY, lived without John for 4 months until he got a job, lost someone I loved immensely, John finally got a new job in NY.

Huh, life started a new chapter....

We became a family again, John started commuting to NYC, working long hours, enjoyed summers, endured long winters, loved every minute with eachother & our family,dreamed of owning our own home again, saved, saved and saved more money.

Which brings me to today.

I am a very happy and grateful person who has been married for 6 years to a GOOD and handsome man.

Life has been a journey, but all in all a good one. We have had an amazing time.

The tough times have made us stronger and we are more appreciative of the gifts we have

after six crazy years we are still very much in love.

Biking For A New Purpose

2009-06-11T16:31:00.000-07:00

The other night I found myself without a car. I had dropped my SUV off at the dealership in the morning hopeful I would have it by dinner time as I had nothing to make for dinner.

So it was 4:30 when I got the call, they had to order a part & it wouldn't be ready until the next day.

Huh, what to do for dinner?

So my son & I biked into town. It was so peaceful & quiet. We got our pizza, went to the town gazebo & parked ourselves. We packed a cooler with drinks, fruit & snacks. We meet some friends & had a great picnic. They kids ran around & we(grown ups) got to chat. We went to the Deli for ice cream & headed home. For a last minute plan it was so much fun. I big part of that for me was the simplicity of it. That we could use our bikes for a purpose other than excercise. Like years ago when people didn't have automobiles.

I have come to realize I like simple, it makes me feel good inside. I feel like I am connecting to the moments not so much the things.

Summer time is a great time to "live simply", I hope everyone has great weekend.

Lets Play Tag

2009-06-07T11:56:00.000-07:00

It's always fun to get to know people better so I was delighted to find that I had been tagged by Karyn to share 6 unimportant things about myself that make me happy.

1. First cup of coffee in the morning in my favorite & very large Starbucks cup.

2. Remembering happy & simple moments of childhood.

3. First snow fall.

4. Picnics at the beach.

5. The smell of fresh cut Lilacs.

5.Looking at old photographs, the older the better.

6. "The Holiday"- I NEVER tire of watching this movie.

I would like to pass the torch to Megan, from White Flower Farmhouse, Lulu from Lu Lu & Co., Jeanne from A Bushel & A Peck, Jennifer from A Charmed Life, Danielle from The Vintage Dragonfly, and Darlene from Flax & Spindle.

These are the Days....

2009-06-06T07:25:00.000-07:00

The other day my niece was playing some old tunes on her lap top and "These Are The Days" by Van Morrison came on. I haven't heard it in forever and it's amazing how one song can stir up such emotion. This is hands down one of my favorite songs and it's perfect to listen to this time of year. I thought I would share the lyrics.

These are the days of the endless summer

These are the days, the time is now

There is no past, theres only future

Theres only here, theres only now

Oh your smiling face, your gracious presence

The fires of spring are kindling bright

Oh the radiant heart and the song of glory

Crying freedom in the night

These are the days by the sparkling river

His timely grace and our treasured find

This is the love of the one magician

Turned the water into wine

These are days of the endless dancing and the

Long walks on the summer night

These are the days of the true romancing

When Im holding you oh, so tight

These are the days by the sparkling river

His timely grace and our treasured find

This is the love of the one great magician

Turned water into wine

These are the days now that we must savour

And we must enjoy as we can

These are the days that will last forever

Youve got to hold them in your heart.

Happy Saturday everyone,

I hope you find a little time to savour today!

Footprints in the Sand

2009-06-02T05:16:00.000-07:00

We walked along the beach, smiling and laughing. The sun was fading; we had a good day, good company and lots of fun. The day was done. I looked back as we walked to find a treasure left behind, a moment in time that had not been washed away or forgotten-our footprints.

Three sets in the sand.

Three moments in time captured.

A happy moment for a fun loving 4 year old.

A peaceful moment for a happy and content women.

And a quiet moment for a man who got to spend the day with his family.

Footprints belonging to a family who created a memory on that gorgeous and peaceful day.

House Hunting

2009-05-31T03:42:00.001-07:00

So for a while now my husband & I have been house hunting. This house is in the village of Sayville, my husband commutes to NYC so it's a little closer. We still love where we live now, Bellport so we may end buying there.

But for now this is the house that has caught my eye.

I love this door, it's the original with the "Letter" pocket. As like staircases I adore doors. I like to think about all who have come and gone in it's over 100 year existance.

Ahhh, just beautiful!!!!

The details in this house are in amazing condition. Look at this door and the moldings. And who could overlook the original stunning glass knob.

Floors definately need to be sanded, much needs to be done, but look at these columns.

Again, original door with the skeleton key, probably not too safe but very cool!

Dining room, I can picture my table & chairs and big family dinners.

Ok, this is the problem area, it needs a little rearranging, lots of paint but what potential! I love how the frig always seems to just be hanging out all by it's lonesome in these old houses. Love the windows, not crazy about looking at someone else's A/C but.....

Huge front porch with half of it screened in, pretty cool. With all the bugs here it's a valuable space to have. A little settling has occurred but that is to be expected.

Diamond in the rough.

Stay tuned......

Unity

2009-05-30T05:00:00.001-07:00

I found this image the other day under "friendship." It took a second look for me to get it. I thought it was quietly beautiful and it reminded me of unity. We are all connected in someway, "tied" together if you will. It is sort of how I view the blog world, women(for the most part in my world) helping, supporting other women. That is how it should be, life is short and we are all in this together and we have so much to offer each other.

Building of what I wrote about in an earlier blog about "paying it forward", I truly believe that if you are a good person and you do good things that good things will come your way, they may take some time but eventually they do.

My thought for the day is "UNITY"

Have a great Saturday everyone!

I've Been Tagged

2009-05-29T16:52:00.000-07:00

I have been "tagged" by Megan from White Flower Farmhouse to write 6 things about myself.

Yeah, fun!

1. I am an optimist. I am a happy person who like to see the coffee cup as half full.

2. Although I own 2 saws & I like to get my hands dirty I am not a dare devil, I lived in Colorado for 5 years and skied twice. Walking & running is more my speed.

3. I am drawn to the water, it's a part of me. I love the smell, the sound, the peacefulness. I adore collecting beach glass, it's something that makes me feel connected to the past, to an event or a memory that someone else was a part of.

4. I have a strong affection for fabrics. I have enough to fill an entire room. I actually hoard them, in case I ever have a fabric "emergency" ,you never know.

5.History- I am extremely nostalgic. I love the smell of old, you know that musty smell. I am intrigued by the past and never tire of learning about it. And I adore older homes, the charm, character, the attention to detail but most of all I like thinking about all it's seen, staircases in particular.

6. I like genuine and kind people. I am a big believer in "paying it forward."

I would like to pass the torch to Karyn at French Charming, Jeanne at A Bushel and a Peck and Lu Lu at Lu Lu & Co.

Perfect Day

2009-05-28T04:22:00.000-07:00

It's not too often but every once in while I have a perfect day.Not rushed or planned, relaxing and really fun.

Life moves so fast and I don't want to be one of those moms who gets so caught up in the day to day that I forget the savor the ride. Typically everything we do as a family involves some kind of plan, a "little" stress and yes it's fun but definately not "lay on the beach" relaxing.

Anyone relate?????

This day was perfect, it was "lay on the beach" relaxing. I wish I had more like it. Something to strive for. Planning is highly overrated (we'll see how long that lasts), anyways it was so good to regroup & refuel.

Nothing like a hometown Memorial Day Parade to remember all those who have fought for our freedoms and who continue to.

I thought it was a sweet picture, the boy was a little older than my son.

John & Shane do a little climbing at Bellport Bay.

We biked to our local beach with a picnic.

This is were we find all of our summer treasures, we like to pretend we are on "treasure hunts."

We were the only ones there, a little peace and tranquility is very good for the soul!

"These are the days to remember!"

Favorite New Blogs

2009-05-26T04:30:00.000-07:00

I wanted to say "Thank You" to Karyn from French Charming.

Last week she kindly gave me an award for one of her favorite newly discovered blogs. She has an amazing blog and she is a fellow New Yorker, Long Islander to be exact. Her previous shop was 15 minutes from me, it's a small world. Now she is in California, hoping to open another fabulous shop. She has lots of great ideas and inspiration and I am very happy to have found a new blogging friend.

These are my other new favorite blogs.

Check them out, they're amazingly talented as well.

A Bushel And A Peck

A Vintage Barn

Operation Nice

White Flower Farmhouse

Frugal Farmhouse

The French Cupboard

A Little Of This That And The Other

A Charming Life

Lu Lu & Co.

Flax & Spindle

Nothing like some new friends to share some design ideas and inspiration.

This is how happy I am!

A Purposeful Shop

2009-05-15T07:32:00.000-07:00

My husband, my son & I drove out to the North Fork of Long Island on Sunday for Mother’s Day. We were on our way to my husband’s parent’s house. We were enjoying the drive as always, farms, vineyards, open space, old beautiful architecture and quaint historic towns. My son was watching a movie so my husband actually had a chance to catch up and talk (big fan of DVD players on long trips). I was telling him that I wished I had more local creative friendly relationships. So, I on whim said “can you make a left here?” We drove, not quite sure what I was looking for, but then suddenly I said “stop, turn around.”
I found the most amazing shop, White Flower Farmhouse. Completely me in every way, I wanted one of everything. Sometimes you walk into a place and you just know it's special, that was this store. It was warm, cozy and comfortable, a place you want to stay & look at every little detail. Two ladies run it Lori and Megan who are super nice. They have created a nostalgic feel in their shop, which is what I love the most. They have reused, recycled, and repurposed objects into beautiful pieces of art for the home.
Here are some of my favorites.

Part Of The Family

2009-05-12T06:26:00.000-07:00

Today, I am thankful we have a dog. Right around dinner time most nights I hear "mommy can you play with me?" Well last night I sent Murphy(our dog) and Shane out to the backyard and they ran each other ragged. Murphy slept like a baby, I wish I could say the same for Shane but... can't have everything. As much work as he is, he is part of the family. I had a dog growing up and it was a very special part of my childhood. I hope it will be for Shane too.

Anyone see "Marley & Me?" I cried like a baby.

My Mom

2009-05-09T18:07:00.001-07:00

Today I am a mom, but I am also a daughter. So today, I would like to pay tribute to someone who taught me, molded me and loved me immensely, my mom Carol.

My dad often speaks of her, her kind soul and authentic spirit. He always says "she was a great mom, it was something she was born to do." That is how I felt when my son was born. As much as he tells me that I never tire of hearing it because we are connected in that way.

I wrote this for her before she past.

A Mother is…
someone who lifts you when you have fallen,
who sees your spirit when no one else can,
who listens but never judges,

who teaches you that kindness matters,
who sees your strengths and celebrates them,
who rejoices in your victories and shares your tears,
who holds tight to your dreams
like they were her own.
She is someone who loves you like no other, for she is your mother.

These are some of my favorite pictures of her.

My nan and mom on the beach summer of 1943, my mom was 4 the same age as my son.

My mom age 6.

My mom and I 1976, I am 3.

My mom and I 1978, age 5.

Happy Mother's Day to all of you motherless moms.

To those moms who have moms Happy Mother's Day to both of you!

You Are So Lucky....

2009-05-08T10:09:00.000-07:00

So last night I was on the phone with my friend who just had her second child in March. This was our first conversation since her little guy came along. She told me how she has been trying to juggle working from home since her son was born. It sounds overwhelming to even think of such a thing but she has a very good job that she wants to keep. Anyways, she says to me out of the blue "you are so lucky, Jen, seriously so lucky, that when your home with Shane you are truly home with Shane." I said "you're right, I am." There are many things that I don't have or go without, but who cares, they are just things. And there are things I have yet to achieve and there will be a time and a place for that. For right now I am exactly where I want to be.

We are tested daily as to what we believe, what we value and who we are. And it is who we are as people, mothers, daughters, wives, sisters, friends, neighbors and even strangers that define us. For when we go, the legacy we will leave behind will be much greater than the sum of our achievements but the lives we have touched and molded and the LOVE we gave.

Last night it was a pouring, big surprise, so Shane & I decided to make a pizza together.

"Enjoy the small things for someday they will be the big things."

An early Happy Mother's Day!

Being Grateful

2009-05-05T11:06:00.001-07:00

OK, so I decided last week to begin each day being grateful for at least three things. Being that I am a grateful person by nature I thought piece of cake. Well, life got crazy last week and before I knew it 2 days had past by and I hadn't even thought about it. You wouldn't think this would be a hard thing to do, but because we wear so many hats through the day and we just go, go, go it can be hard.

So, new resolution, be grateful for 3 things each day and SLOW down.

Today, I am grateful that I got to take my son out for ice cream. Today, I am grateful that my husband has a job and that we are healthy.

Mother's Day Tea

2009-05-04T07:08:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was our annual Mother's Day Tea. It was a rainy Sunday, typical east coast weather this time of year and our little event was a perfect cure for the rainy day blues.

My sister, Shane and I. What would I do without my sister's help. She is an amazing hostess and baker. Her help was greatly appreciated!

Mothers are the
pivot on which the family spins,
mothers are the
pivot on which the world spins.
-Pam Brown

Fresh herbs with sweet Mother's Day sayings.

Jenn's soaps are amazing.

The house smelled so good. My burlap pillows were a big hit especially the "Maison de Plage." A full table of soaps, the colors were so beautiful.

It was nice to catch up with some old friends.

New Products

2009-05-01T07:19:00.000-07:00

This season rings are my thing.

I love texture, I am a texture junkie. I haven't used Burlap in years but I am seeing it everywhere and I really like the look and feel it gives. Being that City Farmhouse is all about sayings and french inspiration I thought why not give it a try. We'll see if the locals like it at the Mother's Day Tea on Sunday.

Sweet smelling sachets perfect for Mother's Day.

Repurposed Door

2009-04-30T17:48:00.000-07:00

So I found this old door about 10 years ago in a Dutch Colonial built in 1902. The home had been in one famliy for 97 years. You can imagine the treasures that were there. The door was an amazing find, great for dispaly!

Before and After

2009-04-28T16:47:00.000-07:00

So my husband and I have been back and forth between buying the home I grew up in and moving back to Colorado. Even though we haven't made any decisions yet I decided it was time to say goodbye to the peeling wallpaper of yesteryear. I think it's a little better!

Being a Mother...

2009-04-17T04:15:00.000-07:00

Being a mother is the most amazing part of being a women. I have had this conversation with others moms often and most of us feel the same way. We try so hard to be great at everything that when we fall short of our high expectaions we beat ourselves up. We usually come to this realization after talking to other moms, for we sometimes see eachother as "Supermoms" without realizing we all have "Supermom" moments but usually not "Supermom" days. And that is ok, we have to learn to not set such high expectaions, such as clean all bathrooms, vacuum, wash floor, grocery shop, make a fantastic meal, work, have outdoor time, reading time, bath time and yes "me" time. Don't get me wrong sometimes we can do it all, but I find that if my list can be checked off comletely then maybe I forgot to be in the moment with my son. It's good for me to remember that perfect days may not exist to often but perfect moments do!

Things to Remember

2009-04-16T16:26:00.000-07:00

Now that Spring is here it's a good time to "stop and smell the roses" and get back to the basics.

Scootering on The Great South Bay

2009-02-08T15:17:00.000-08:00

For as long as I can remember cold winters in Bellport always brought treasured outdoor activities. Scootering or Ice Boating is one of them. Each boat of a varying size, sail and color all join together, gliding across the ice so seamlessly. At times it seems as if they are dancing in perfect sync.

You can actually hear them graze the ice, it is a serene sound.

Perfect photo opportunities for a novice like myself.

Superheroes Do Exist

2009-01-03T12:22:00.000-08:00

There is a place in every childhood, an enchanting place were colors are brighter, the air is softer and Superheroes do exist.

Holiday Boutique

2008-11-22T10:06:00.001-08:00

This annual event was held last night. It was my first year as a vendor & I was very happy to be there. We had 6 talented ladies selling there one of a kind creations, lots of great holiday gifts, savory foods and wine. It was a good occasion to get out and have a little fun. Our hostess Jenn did a fantastic job at setting a warm, festive mood in her beautiful home.

Live Simply, I still love this saying or should I say philosophy. A few new items for the holidays, signs with the phrase Joyeux Noel.

Monogram Ornaments

My mother started a holiday tradition when I was little of buying one for me every year and writing a little note with the date. So ornaments as simple as they are always had a significant meaning for me. So when I decided to design some for this event I wanted to create something pretty and meaningful.

Yummy! Jenn's soap, I wish you could smell them. Mistle Toe, Oatmeal Cranberry, Three Wise Men, Gingerbread, Amazing Grace.....They are such great gifts for the holiday & they make everything smell delicious.

A closer look.

Ok, I think I am officially in the holiday spirit now.

Halloween Parade

2008-10-27T18:02:00.000-07:00

Every year my hometown shuts down it's Main Street to host a Halloween Parade for children of all ages. Shane decided to be Jack Sparrow.
Shane and John refuel with some candy.

Shane and his Superman cousin Michael.

Trick or Treating along Main Street.

Shannon and Sean, aka Ice Princess and Batman.

Indiana Jones and Christopher, a 1930's Gangster.

Shane and his little bee, Anastasia.

Pumpkin Picking

2008-10-26T17:52:00.001-07:00

Pumpkin picking is the most fun activity to do on Long Island in the fall. It's something we look forward to every season. The crisp air, fresh apple cider, hayrides, corn mazes, just a great family day.

A picturesque hayride and a beautiful sight.

My little guy eager to pick the biggest pumpkin, ahh to be a kid again.

All in a days work.

Dreams

2008-10-12T04:59:00.001-07:00

What happened to following your dreams? As we get older sensibility comes in to play, which is good. But sometimes we become so sensible we forget that being happy, content, fulfilled and passionate is just as important.

"Set out each day believing in your dreams, know without a doubt that you were made for amazing things." by Josh Hinds

A Saying to Remember Everyday

2008-10-03T07:16:00.001-07:00

Life gets crazy, overwhelming at times. There are things that happen to us or things we see and hear that make us loose focus on the things that really matter.

Most days I try to remember this... Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery and today is a gift. That's why they call it- The Present.

Morning Walk

2008-10-01T04:24:00.000-07:00

Most mornings I try to go walking. For me it is a time to reflect, take stock of all the things I am grateful for, connect to myself, my family, nature and organize my thoughts for the day.

It's amazing when I start the day this way, it's ALWAYS a better day. These are some of the sights I get to see and eachday I find something new that inspires me.

The trees....
The sun hitting the water.....

The soft current of the bay against the sandy beach....

The dune grass swaying in the breeze....

Cottage Pendants

2008-09-06T04:27:00.000-07:00

Last year while selling at the Country Living Fair I met a really nice gal who was also a vendor. We kept in touch through the year & shared with eachother our business happenings.

You can check out Rolane featured in September 2008 of Country Living at The Vintage Barn http://www.countryliving.com/antiques/shops-and-shows/vintage-barn-antiques-show-0908 and at http://www.barnbarnbaby.com/ where I am currently selling my cottage pendants.

A Day At The Beach

2008-09-02T05:21:00.000-07:00

A great way to end summer vacation.

Shane eating & wearing his favorite watermelon.

All in the family.

Adorable, what else is there to say.

Wedding Favors

2008-08-27T04:43:00.001-07:00

My niece Jessica got married last Friday & these were her wedding favors. She filled them with Hersey Kisses, just perfect.

A lovely keepsake.

Simply Meaningful

2008-08-11T04:39:00.000-07:00

I have so many favorite sayings, but this adage is one I think about most everyday. Another is "enjoy the small things for someday they will be the big things."

These Are A Few More Of My Favorite Things

2008-08-01T04:44:00.000-07:00

My hometown, Bellport, NY. Bellport is a historic town known years ago for its inlet access from the Atlantic Ocean, it was home to whalers, fisherman and clammers. Also known for it's tree lined streets, white picket fences, beautiful historic homes and friendly people, a great place to live and raise a family.

My favorite house, on my favorite street in Bellport.

Murphy, our sweet and very spunky Wheaten Terrier.

Since moving back to New York 2 years ago I started collecting beach glass. I love the colors, each piece is different, the idea that you can find something that has been tumbling in the ocean for many, many years is fascinating to me.

Gardens, there is nothing better than growing your own herbs and vegtables. This is my sister-in-law's garden, she is kind enough to give me plenty of mint, basil, sage, zucchini, cucumbers, etc.., along with some great light recipes.

A Rainy Summer Day in Wine Country

2008-07-28T05:20:00.000-07:00

There is nothing more perfect sometimes than being outside when it's raining. My husband & I were lucky enough to go one of our favorite vineyards over the weekend on Long Island, Correy Creek. It is just a really peaceful place to rest for a while.
I never get tired of looking at this beautiful landscape.

And a truck to go with it, even more perfect.

This was the very first and only truck this vineyard used when they started their business many, many years ago. I can almost picture it, what a beautiful picture that would have been.

New Products

2008-07-25T08:09:00.001-07:00

Quote Jars

They say inspiration comes in all shapes & sizes.

A quote for each day of the month.

French Pendants

These are vintage french posters I have made into pendants. I have always had a fascination for anything French. My grandfather was a frenchman, his family was from Nice, France (I have to also mention I am proudly Irish as well). There is a romance and a mystic that we are reminded of when we think of Paris or anything French related. What ever the reason I enjoy the nostalgia behind it.

I love the colors.

These are a few of my favorite things.....

2008-07-23T08:10:00.000-07:00

My little Colorado Cowboy.

"Family", these flowers were cut on July 3, maybe it is a symbol of the strenth of it's message.

The beach, the smell of salt water in the air, the sounds of sailboat masts clanking in the wind, the sound of the waves hitting the shore . It is a place that feels like home.

Designing has always been something that makes me truly content.

Kathleen Floral, this remains my all time favorite fabric.

There is nothing like fresh flowers, the colors, the textures and of course the fragrance.