New Artist Crush {+Giveaway}

A couple of weeks ago I shared my plans for the twin's nursery. I wanted a space that was not so babyish and something that they could grow into. I love finding artists that really influence the design of a specific space. Well...Ricardo Solis is one of those artists. He helped me capture what I wanted in the design of our nursery. Below are the two prints that have arrived for the nursery! The flamingo will go above baby girl's crib and the zebra above baby boy's crib.

I absolutely love the playfulness of these paintings. There is something to be said for a child's imagination and I feel that these evoke that image so well. They all tell a certain story.

Here are a few more of my favorites:

the big monument

Creating the Corocoro

creation of the giraffe

poisonous color

I love that these don't necessarily have to be for kids spaces. They would be neat in a den or family room where the pictures would be fabulous story starters for your guests!

Now the fun part.....
Ricardo is giving away one 11x14 print of choice to ONE lucky winner!! All you have to do is follow the Rafflecopter below. Visit Ricardo Solis's site and let me know which print you would like to win. There are extra entries if you follow on Facebook & Twitter.

Winner will be announced next Monday, February 9th. Good Luck!
  a Rafflecopter giveaway

A Plan {Our Twin Nursery}

I will be 25 weeks pregnant tomorrow! Yahoo! Getting closer to meeting my babies. While counting down the days gets me excited, I am also a bit anxious when I think about getting everything done before their arrival. Especially because twins are known to come early. Yikes!
So we have been in the works cleaning, purging, organizing...you know, full nesting mode! I think I am wearing John down already and little does he know we still have so much left to do. Buckle up Hubs!

A while back I shared with you the previous floor plan of our tiny nursery. It was used for an extra guest room. Well at only 11'x10' we have had to be very creative when trying to fit TWO cribs, a dresser, glider and storage into this precious space.

Here is the layout we are hoping for:

It will be a bit cramped, but the sweet babies aren't going to care! We have really tried to create as much storage as possible with slide out drawers under the cribs, a six drawer dresser and two hanging bars for clothes in the closet. We are also re-doing one of our downstairs utility closets to create more storage for the big stuff that babies need like bouncers, bumbos, playmats, etc.

I want this room to feel calming with just little touches of color here and there. The walls are painted Shoji White by Sherwin Williams and the ceiling is Amazing Gray by Sherwin Williams. I really love the color palette that is going on so far!

Here are my design plans for the Twin's Neutral Nursery:

1. Round Mirror- I love this one, but have found a much cheaper version at Ikea that I think I am going to go with. There is so much white in the room that I wanted to add touches of gold to make the room feel a bit more sophisticated and put together.
2. Yellow Lamp- I needed a little pop of color and found a similar lamp at HomeGoods a while back. Its quite adorable.
3. Etsy Artwork- I love the balloons over the city as well as the merry-go round in Paris for a bit of whimsy.
4. Mid Century Dresser- I found an almost identical dresser to the West Elm one at a local antique/consignment shop. It is perfect and I can't wait to get it into the space!
5.Naps Fix Everything- Again I love supporting small business and Etsy is a great place to find artwork.
6. Floor Lamp- I am thinking that since I don't have a lot of room for a side table next to the glider, that I am in need of a floor lamp to give me the space I need.
7. Side Table- this Nate Berkus table just took to our local Target stores and I am thinking this is just what I need next to the glider.
8. Glider/Rocker- this glider is almost identical to one I found for around $200 at HomeGoods a couple of months ago. Such a steal and so so comfortable.
9. Pouf- I am in need of a pouf or ottoman to place my feet while rocking and feeding. I liked the pattern and colors in the one above. Target to save the day again!
10. Striped Fabric- this striped fabric will be used on the roman shade as well as the crib skirts. You can't go wrong with stripes in any room!

1. Pendant Light Fixture- This light has already been hung and is currently at an amazing price! You can see the lighting details in the nursery here.
2. Floating Shelves- I am so excited about my Lucite shelves that are going to be hung on the wall near the glider to organize books.
3. Color Scheme- These pillows that use to be on the guest bed have become my color inspiration. Yellow, Gray, Navy, Turquoise & a Flamingo Pink!
4. Bright Lab Lights- I love the looks of these string of lights. I think they would add a bit of fun to the room and come in such a variety of colors. This strand has white, gold, pink, coral, indigo and turquoise. I think the colors would be perfect!
5 & 6. Unexpected Artwork- I have been in love with Ricardo Solis art for quite sometime. I am so so excited that these prints should be here sometime later this week. I ordered 11x14 prints for above each crib. Can't wait to share a bit more about this artist in a couple of weeks.
7. Throw Rug- Even though the room has wall to wall carpeting, I am thinking a small rug would add another element to the room. Maybe even a possible sheep hide for near the dresser/changing table.
8. Baby Mod Crib {x2}- I absolutely love these cribs! We have just started setting them up and I dig the low profile and space that they save in our small room. They also have a drawer that pulls out underneath for storage. Perfection! And...can you believe they are from Walmart!?



So what do you think? Even though the room has to be fairly gender neutral since a boy and girl will be sharing the space, I have added some feminine and some masculine touches that I think will be perfect!

If you want to follow along with bits and pieces of the nursery as I add furniture and accessories to the space, head on over to Instagram! I am hoping to be able to share a tour of the room in just a few weeks. Wish me luck!

Inspired By Art {Cozy Rustic Dining Room}

I have always been interested in different forms of art as well as photography. As soon as I see an inspiring piece I am always tempted to design a room with that artwork in mind. I am never drawn to just one form of art. I have landscapes, abstract, impressionism and mixed media all framed around my house somewhere.

I recently came across this site called Invaluable. What a great source for design inspiration! Invaluable is the largest online auction marketplace with an amazing selection of fine art and paintings. I could spend days just browsing their site. Some bidding starts as low as $17 all the way up in the thousands. It just depends on what you are looking for.

Since the cold weather has been streaming in around the country, I was inspired by this abstract piece to design a cozy rustic dining room.

Unfortunately, the piece is no longer available for auction. Some lucky duck has it hanging in their home right now. But, I really loved the earth tones in this painting and used them to create an organic space.

The green tones were brought out by the plants and cozy throw. Mixing the different metals, woods and textures helped the space feel more collected and relaxed because everything isn't so matchy matchy.

What do you think about this dining room? Could you kick off your shoes at the end of the day and cozy up with a glass of wine?



**This is not a sponsored post. I just love sharing new finds with all of you. All thoughts and ideas are mine and only mine!**

New Artist Crush {Laura Dro Designs}

Happy Monday All! A short week for many of you and I am sure you are looking forward to the holiday weekend. Can you believe that tomorrow is already July? Wha What? I can't believe it. I have a feeling that summer is going to fly by. I sure don't want to wish it away.

Today we are talking art. I love all different kinds of art from abstract, to portrait paintings to landscapes and photography. If I was rich I would spend a lot of money on artwork for sure. I think it brings such character to a home. Displaying meaningful photos and artwork can really show others what inspires you. Artwork is also a perfect starting spot to grab colors from when decorating a space.
I have learned over the past couple of years that you don't have to be rich to have fabulous artwork displayed in your home. You may remember my abstract artwork for less post a few weeks ago or the Etsy's kids artwork post I did last year. These are both great ideas for artwork on a budget.

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I was recently contacted by Laura Dro Designs to choose a print of my choice for my home! Let me tell you how hard that decision was. I am in love with the colors and texture Laura brings to her pieces. They are perfect for any room in your home. She creates abstracts as well as watercolor animal illustrations (which would be perfect in a nursery).

Abstract, Watercolor

I decided to choose the Peony in Coral print for my bedroom. I knew it would add a little summer touch to our master bedroom.

I love how this print adds a bit of a feminine touch on my side of the bed. It makes me smile!

The colors are so vibrant! You wouldn't even guess it was a print. It looks and feels like an original. That makes me wonder how brilliant the colors must have been on Laura's original design.

So Laura is officially a new artist crush of mine. How about you? You must check out her original paintings here and get a print for your own here.

Have a fab week my friends!


**This is not a sponsored post. Just wanted to share one of my amazing finds with you. Thanks to Laura for sending me this beautiful print. As always all opinions are mine and always mine.**

Abstract Artwork for Less {Sources}

Some of you may remember this design board I did for a reader's redesign back in March:

I received a lot of great feedback as well as reader's wanting to know the source for the abstract art above the couch. I love how art can pull all the colors of a room together to make it feel cohesive. Sometimes I find a piece of art that inspires a whole room design.
The artwork above the couch is an abstract piece from John-Richard for Horchow. The piece is called "The Camaraderie". The list price is $1250 and is currently on sale for $875.

Now most of us are not in the market for buying such expensive pieces of art, but would like similar abstracts that can bring in color and impact into our homes.

Here are a few sites that have similar pieces for a lot less!

Parima Creative Studio on Etsy

Clare Elsaesser for Etsy

World Market Abstract one & Abstract two

Sisso for Etsy

Minted Abstract Prints

Pamelam for Etsy

Aren't they all fabulous? This is only a small glimpse of some of my favorite Abstract artists for less. I am sure you could find many more on Etsy or even search for some on pinterest.

So tell me...are you an abstract art lover or more of a portrait art lover?

Tuesday Treats #14 {Inspiration from around the web}

Hello Hello! Hope you all are having a great day. Thank you so much for your sweet comments on yesterday's post. It is always hard to press the publish button when it is something personal, but you all make me feel special and not alone!

We are back today with some fun ideas and inspiration from around the web. Here are my top 5 of the week!

#1: Painting with Straws
Emily shared her super easy painting idea with kids this past week. I am in love with the idea...heck I might even try it by myself! I love how you can create fun abstract art for cheap!

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#2: HGTV Smart Home
I am sure many of you remember when I featured HGTV's Dream home this past January. Well HGTV is back with another fabulous giveaway in Nashville! Their gorgeous smart home has all the bells and whistles of an energy efficient home. You can enter to win twice daily Here. Go Here for more pictures & Info.
A few pictures to get you drooling:

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#3: Japanese Birthday Party for Little Girls

Oh My Gosh...this is the most precious thing. My friend Courtney threw her little girl a party. Not just any party... but a Japanese themed party. Take a look at all the details Here. She is the coolest mama! 

#4: A Fabulous Kitchen {Before & After}

Y'all know that I am a sucker for a good before and after. Well this one definitely doesn't disappoint. Take a look at Shea's fabulous kitchen makeover! Someday I will have a white Kitchen...someday.

#5: The BEST Strawberry Pie...ever!

Well at least I think it is the best. Since it is strawberry season here in NC, I have started making pies and jams. I love this time of year! If you have been following this blog from the beginning of time, then you might remember my Mama's Strawberry Pie recipe. It is super simple and the most delicious thing I have tasted! Just add a HUGE dollop of whip cream and you are set to go!

Any fun ideas, recipes or home tours I need to know about? Have a great rest of your day! 

XOXO

Tuesday Treats #12 {Ideas and Inspiration from around the web}

Today I am preparing for visitors! I love when family and friends roll into town for a few days. So I am off cleaning and organizing before they get here late tonight. Do you have any tips or tricks that save time getting ready for guests? {I would love to hear...leave a message in the comments!}


I love when websites and blogs inspire me. I enjoy seeing fresh new ideas and this week's links don't disappoint people! Enjoy!


#1. Floral & Polka Dot Covered Eggs:
It is that time of year! Easter is this coming weekend. Do you usually dye Easter eggs? It use to be a fun tradition with my family, but I haven't gotten into it over the past few years. Kristen came up with this adorable idea....covering eggs with adorable flower paper by using a glue/water mixture while using a sharpie to create dalmatian dots on the opposite eggs. So creative I tell ya! Tutorial Here.

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#2. New Bud Vases from Arrow & Sage:

I am sure most of you remember the talented Anna from Arrow & Sage. She did a giveaway a little while back. Well she is back at it again...creating the most amazing pottery for amazing prices! I love her new little Terra bud vases she has in the shop for only $22.00! And how about the pair of cylinder vases for $30.00! She is amazing that girl!

#3. 6th Street Design School: The Story of A Room
Kirsten from the blog 6th Street Design School is such a talented designer/decorator. She recently did a series where she told the story of how she goes about helping her clients design a room that they will love. You can start HERE and then go back to the beginning reading from day one to the final install. It is really an amazing transformation. You can see a couple of the final pictures below.

#4. Barbara Huber Designs: New Napa Valley Picnic Tote
Did you all know that my mother-in law is a talented sewer and designer? She designs patterns for Quilt Woman and her new Picnic Tote is amazing! How fun would this beauty be to take on summer picnics or to the beach? You can visit the rest of her patterns Here and check out her blog Here. She often has free patterns you can follow and such great sewing tips and tricks.

#5. Art By Michelle: Last Chance!!!

Don't forget that you can get 10% off any Art By Michelle custom house portrait or print through Thursday, April 17th!!! Use Code: EATSLEEPDECORATE at checkout!! These would make amazing mother's day and father's day gifts!! You can see what she designed for me Here. 

Have a great rest of your day sweets! See you back here tomorrow for my front porch update!

Watercolor Painting {Before & After}

I heard all of you Northerners are getting slammed with cold and snow again?! I am sending lots of wishes for Spring your way today. Not too much longer...hang in there or move to NC!

Today we are talking watercolor paintings. You all know my new favorite App, but for the real deal you need to stop on over to see my friend Michelle. I found her through Etsy when I was scouting out artists to paint a picture for my parents for a Christmas gift. She mostly paints house portraits, but you can see she is amazing at wildlife portraits as well as garden paintings.

I love the detail she brings to each painting. They are so lifelike that I feel as though I am right in front of the homes!

So for Christmas I had Michelle paint my childhood lake home. Before my parents moved from NY, they had to sell our cottage which my grandparents had built when I was just three years old. It was a wonderful place filled with so many memories. Since then new owners have knocked down the original place and built their million dollar home. Nice for them, sad for us. But at least my parents now live a mile from me here in NC where we can make many more memories! It was a blessing in disguise.

I sent Michelle the following three pictures of our cottage:

I told her a few details like how there were always towels and swimsuits hanging over the upper railing, green Adirondack chairs sat near the lake where we would often have campfires at night, blackberry bushes adorned the front of the home and a table with an umbrella to the left part of the deck was where there were many family dinners and conversations.

And here is the amazing after:

Every detail was placed exactly where I remembered it! It makes me miss my cottage so much. I am so very blessed to have wonderful memories and each time I walk past this painting in my parent's kitchen, I can't help but stop and smile.

Do you have a place like this that is close to your heart?

Great News!! Michelle is giving Eat.Sleep.Decorate. reader's 10% off any print or custom painting now through April 17th! Just use Code: EATSLEEPDECORATE at checkout! 

Wouldn't these make great mother's day or father's day gifts??