Coastal Design

Good Afternoon!

I am an East Coast girl and I can't tell you how much I miss the ocean and the sand underneath my feet.

Source: wunderground.com via Kelly on Pinterest

 I used to go to the shore all the time.  There is nothing like it.

I find coastal design to be very peaceful and even though I can't have the ocean on a daily basis at least interior wise I can have elements of it in my home.

Some pics that are inspiring me right now.

Source: houseofbliss.blogspot.com via Kelly on Pinterest

Love the straw hats against the white paneled walls.  They add such a carefree natural element to the staircase.

Source: veranda.com via Kelly on Pinterest

The driftwood beams and shelving is gorgeous.

Source: ciaonewportbeach.blogspot.com via Kelly on Pinterest

Of course you have to add in one of my favorite colors, blue.  Bringing the serenity of the ocean indoors.

Source: traditionalhome.com via Kelly on Pinterest

Bunk room for kids.  Nautical themed without going overboard..no pun intended.. lol.

(HGTV)

The simplicity of this space is very relaxing.  The sheer white drapes, the natural wood elements, and the rug the makes me think of sand is stunning and brings harmony.

I have brought sheers into my home too.  I love the way the space breathes now.

What do you think about coastal living?  Is this a style you would incorporate into your home?

My Heart Is Here..

Good Afternoon!

After all the election madness.. I want to focus on the east coast.  I grew up in New Jersey and I would go almost every weekend to Brooklyn to see my grandmother or the shore.  I have so many fond memories there.

I remember so many nights as a teenager I would walk the beach and pray for my future husband.  It was so wonderful to walk those sandy shores with him.

Sharing the experience with my kids (walking with my sister and my parents who still live there).

Yes, my hair was being blown by the wind..lol

Picking up shells

driving over the George Washington Bridge.


My heart is there and my prayers are with everyone who has suffered and who are going through another storm.

I read on the The Decorista how you can help with the effort in New York.  Her list is very detailed and I encourage everyone to get involved.  God bless you all.

Giving And Art .. Tremendous

Have you ever felt that when you met somebody you knew there was something really special about them?

Well, that's what happened to me when I walked into here..

On this particular day they were having a Chocolate Walk promoting the businesses in this quaint town. 

I immediately felt at home.  The owner welcomed us with open arms.

We started talking and I began to find out "The Why" of this store.

This is a place where local artists can have a voice and sell their art.  Not only that..listen to their mission statement:

Square Peg Round Hole Mission Statement

We will be of service to the Recovery Community and to the Community-at-Large offering Recovery Literature, Gifts, Merchandise and a place for quiet conversation and discussion.

We will provide a place where talented artists' work can be seen and purchased.

We will provide a place for quality consignment artwork and where merchandise can be displayed and purchased.

We will conduct ourselves and our business in the spirit of love and service to all.

Cindy Ridolfino is four years in recovery from prescription drug addiction.

They always have someone there to speak with if you are struggling in these areas.  

It's a place of encouragement.

There she is through the window.

A photographer from the local paper came in and she said for me to be in the shot..

I felt so honored.  She is a true star.

Please check out her sites here:

Square Peg Round Hole

Splendidly Imperfect

Shopping In Jersey : Part 1

Good Afternoon!!

I am still in New Jersey.  My father continues to make strides every day..so grateful!

In the midst of his care we have had some fun as well..

We built a firepit and with the nice mild temps it was great for me and the kids.

I have done some scouting out of some places and I must say they need to be on your list if you are ever in the South Jersey area.
While I was taking my mother out for a walk I spotted this place that was tucked away...The Emporium.

Fell in love with the rafters..simply gorgeous!

Are you ready for the eye candy?

These doors made my heart sing..the carvings are beautiful works of art.
I think the mirror speaks for itself.

This painting is huge..would make an amazing statement piece in a home.

WWII Navy Ship telescope.

Now this took the cake for me..my mouth was drooling.  It reached into my latin heritage.

I was really surprised about their prices and in a good way.

The Emporium 

424 High Street City of Burlington, New Jersey 08016

609-747-8333

Open every day 11am - 5pm

There will be other shop tours coming your way. 

About The Break...

 Good Afternoon!

Hoping everyone is having a great day!

I want to thank Julie from Rumbles and Roars (blog) and Jessica from The Aestate for giving me a much needed break.  I am so grateful that they stepped up to help me when I was in a hard place.  I love you guys and thank you.  That's what I love about blogging and the relationships that you build..it becomes like family.

I want to share with you all what happened ..

My dad was rushed into the hospital at the end of January for a severe infection.  They did surgery and things seemed to be turning around but they almost lost him.  That was when I called on these ladies and not only did they come through but they were a rock for me.

We drove from the Chicago area and arrived in New Jersey

(going through Pennsylvania)

My dad was stable. Thank God!

(hospital with my dad)

It has taken some time but he is finally home.  Not completely out of the woods yet but we can see the sunshine through the trees.  I am still here being as much a help as I can.

(my kids and my mother)  Can you believe she is 79?  I hope I can look like that when I am that age  : )

So, if you ever think of me say a prayer for my dad..would appreciate it.  Also, if you haven't started following The Aestate and Rumbles and Roars I highly suggest you put them in your blogroll.  Not only are their blogs awesome but they are truly good people.

P.S.  I will also be sharing here later some goodies I have found when I am out and about doing errands for my family here in Jersey.

Wishing you all much love and health!