Through the eyes of a child...

I have a tendency to "sprinkle" my holiday decor about... here and there... and there... and there. It's just what I seem to do (much like a winter fairy with a very sparkly magic wand). You can just see the picture, right!?!? While I have my decorating tendencies (we all probably do, really)... I always delight in staying open-minded. As fate would have it... my son Fin created a whimsical collection of holiday mini-trees for me (every tree we have, in fact!) and he set them all together en masse in a shiny little festive forest... because that's how he chose to do it. It's one of my favorite spots in the house. Simply said, it's through his eyes. Revel in a different perspective... a new way to dance... a different way to laugh. You will be richer for it... xoxo, Tracy

Do you ever... drink mulled wine?

My dear Anglophiles... cheers! We had a glorious winter storm today... (You are reading this past tense.) I happen to be one of those people who hears about winter storms and gets giddy inside... like any kid in town, hoping school will be canceled (my childhood fantasy)... So I sit with you on a magical snowy eve. I will share with you that while I write I am sipping mulled wine and nibbling at a luscious brownie. Chocolate + mulled wine... then throw some writing into the mix... bliss, my loves... as simple as that. (Only thing that could top it is if I were supping on some trifle... a mental to-do for the weekend??)

Anyway... while mulled wine dates back to Victorian times... it all started for me when I was a kid. I was a horse rider... and the farm where I took my lessons had a wonderful winter party every year. I always remember that in the "trophy room" they served mulled wine. I distinctly remember the smell of it and the sweet warm taste... perfection even then!

When I walked into the house tonight I just knew it was a mulled wine eve... and here I sit. Now if you have never imbibed... well then, this IS the time of the year to truly enjoy this fabulous age-old libation!

Mulled Wine with Brandy

One bottle of red wine (nothing to pricey... burgundy is good for this)
1/2 cup brandy
1 cup sugar
3 cinnamon sticks
12 cloves
1 orange, zested
1 cup cranberry juice

Combine all ingredients into one pot... bring to a simmer for 15-20 minutes (do not boil). Pour into a lovely mug... and IF by chance you can sit near a fireplace to enjoy... well, then you understand my passion for this marvelous drink!!

A few fashion tips for a smashing holiday!

Oh... what to wear! Well, I have a few thoughts to stir you...

* Sparkle is always good at the holidays. A fabulous sequin shirt or tunic... or a darling simple skirt with a gorgeous sparkly belt draping lower on your hip... Now, I will say too much sparkle and sequins is just too much, so try it on, look in the mirror, and consider if it looks like someone might hand you a microphone tonight... That's when you know you've crossed the line. This isn't what any of us want... (Unless of course you have a good set of pipes, that is!)

* It IS the holidays after all... and I love finding and wearing something red... last year I found a fabulous red skirt that just made me smile... I also adore emerald or peacock blue or gorgeous plums... Royal delicious colors look great on most everyone! So many people will wear black (I admit, I fall back on it plenty myself) as it is so easy. But COLOR is so much more marvelous to throw on... certainly worth considering!!

* I love highs and lows in any outfit. I think it's a more interesting way to dress, more creative... and you don't end up looking like you walked off the page of a granimals ad. (Do you remember those?). So, I do hope you get me here... Allow textures and patterns to play off each other... If you wear a leopard jacket (and I love you more if you do) then please don't wear it with a giraffe patterned purse... Try instead something more low key, or something very elegant... or at least a funky paisley that will feel very bohemian and eclectic. (Think 70s fabulous here). Try to avoid shiny with shiny... or too much of any one thing. The mix is key.

* No worries about hemlines poking out from coats, etc. In fact, it can be very cool and layered. For instance, if you are wearing a long skirt and a shorter jacket, well then choose a cool longer shirt to peek out from the jacket... In fact, let it come down over your hips even... Also another place for a low slung belt in another texture.

* Leggings are just too good to overlook. I realize they're not for everyone, but I will always wear them as a very comfortable chic and flexible option. I am certain you'll meet a few women in your life who are die-hards... These are women who have found a way to wear these gems no matter what! Now, the how and what of it... under tunics, or long sweaters, a long jacket... always love them with nice tall boots or ballet flats. Simply timeless and elegant, and great if you are at work or home! (How's that for a grandstand! You would think I would be selling some... I need to get on that for spring! Mind you, as I type, I am wearing some leggings with my tall London boots. Well, here's a good one for you, the elastic on my leggings broke... How pathetic is that!! I have a ponytail holder tied around them because no time for me to look for a pin... Priceless self deprecation!! Onward......

* A gorgeous long elegant skirt is smashing with ballet flats and a very simple long sleeve tissue t-shirt. This is one of my favorite ways to wear a long skirt... it's cool and more unassuming and "not trying too hard."

* Throw on a great gold cuff and a sparkly cocktail ring... You will be spectacular!

* Make sure there are no undie lines... This is never good. In fact, it's downright bad news on any of us! Better off going commando or wearing a thong, girls!

* OK, so we need to discuss the jeweling up of oneself. I am not afraid of jewelry at all... You shouldn't be either. Wimpy jewelry can look... well, wimpy. Try a statement necklace for a very spectacular look... and if you are putting on bracelets, try them in multiples... either the same 2 or 3... or mix a few on one wrist. A holiday must is a cocktail ring, no two ways about it... and if you are going to, then really... DO IT!! If you are going to wear huge statement earrings, then I would ditch the necklace altogether... Just go with the big baubly ring.

* The smokey eye... Just try it. All the way around, very smudgy... oh, YES, YES, YES. Now, I will say while it is glamorous in dark grey or metallics or black, try it also in a rusty copper... very chic. Just no strong lips then... go more bare... just some pretty shine without a lot of color... and out the door you go, my loves! If you are going for red lips this holiday (which I do adore), tame down your eye... strong + strong = too vampy.

* As far as the nails go... I love clear polish on short nails, I think it's very modern and elegant... but I will say when I was in Paris recently I wore the darkest aubergine, almost black... and it was delicious. Just divine. I felt entirely glamorous... that is what we want to feel, now isn't it?! I really don't like the dark colors on long nails... it feels too morgue to me. Too Cruella Deville.

* Resist the temptation to only wear jeans this holiday... it really is way too much fun to dress up a little and feel like you have maybe made more effort... but if jeans are what you love, then throw a dress over them, a big cool belt, a funky jacket, and walk like you are on the streets of Paris!

* Be comfortable in your own skin more than anything... Confidence is the most fabulous thing you can put on... more than any clothing you have in your closet... or anything you are tempted to buy this year! Cheers!!

Magical gift tags... from our studio to you!

Thought we'd share a little piece of our Wisconsin studio with you this holiday... These delightful little tags are original creations, ready to print and use for all your present toppers!! (Click HERE to get the printer-friendly version.) You can print these lovelies on regular copy paper... or try card stock, glossy photo paper, even vellum... whatever tickles your fancy! Cut them out, write a little sentiment on the back, tuck them onto your gift... and voila! Instant gratification! Ohh, it makes me so squirrelly, just thinking about all the possibilities... xoxo, T.

Do you ever... consider decorating eccentricities to make you and your home purrrr?

Adding a little deliciousness to your home is therapy for the soul as far as I'm concerned. Another layer of warmth, a little nod to bohemian... an objet d'art to inspire. I have some thoughts on things that will make your abode richer for the taking... So good in fact, you may not want to leave your jeweled nest!

* Any spot would entirely covet a small dark oriental rug... There's just no denying this, my loves! Where to go with this thought? Well, for starters... the powder room, in front of the fireplace, the foyer, next to your bed... Dark, warm, rich reds and deep peacock blues make these gems perfectly decadent and Doris Duke-able.

* More small lamps... Everywhere, you just must. Turn off those overheads and rest your weary forehead... Lamps are the way to go for the most inviting rooms.

* A touch of exotic... Some leopard or tiger or zebra... Beautiful faux furs are everywhere for the taking... I prefer low pile to the build a bear look. The flatter the fur, the more exotic and real these beauties will look. You won't need many... just a touch here and there.

* Bohemian luxurious on the cheap... You know, funky brightly painted peacocks or parrots... or a cool oversized ceramic lion or horse. Any sort of interesting statues that you can put on a table or in your bookshelf will make a room feel more well traveled. Buy these on the cheap at flea markets, etc.

* Silver... Any kind, size, shape, or price. A bit of sparkle... tarnished or not, is worldly and intoxicating... Grouped together, it is an even more luscious display.

An enchanting holiday display

I find it so welcoming to set a little holiday display in our foyer to greet our family and friends as they cross the threshold into our home... It embraces the spirit of the season with such warmth. This year my little guys Gus (2), Sigerson (7), Fin (8), and Max (8) each had a hand in our enchanting display... so simple... but as magical as anything I could have put together myself. A lighted cottage, some evergreens, some kitschy bobble-heads... and a little sparkle. Why not invite the little ones in your life to lend their creativity? The meaning will be warmer than anything in your heart... Delight in the little things! ~Tracy

Do you ever... consider how enchanting the wrapping and presentation of a gift can be for your dear hearts?

OK... You did the shopping... or you made it... (Whatever, whichever... you are done with that part... Scratch it off the list, doll!) Now the really good part begins. The wrapping. I will tell you I LOVE this part. Now it's not that I don't like the shopping piece... Oh, I do! I just think the wrapping is the frosting... Ahhh, where to begin??

First I will tell you, in all seriousness... I do not wrap all the presents I give with such TLC. True, it's true... perhaps unfair, but too bad... I do pick and choose and that's that. You do too... right? I mean, not every gift needs so much lovin'... but alas, even for those that you may not doll up quite so much, I have some ideas.

Down to business...

* My first rule of thumb... put on some music, find a choice beverage and... plug in your glue gun, sister... you are going need it it tonight!

* Second rule... the dollar store rocks when it comes to cheap-o cool stuff to hot glue onto the tops... this is not about beaucoup bucks... it's about chic, fun... hip and happenin'......got it?

* The paper... Keep your eyes peeled, no need to spend too much... Kraft paper is spectacular, as is plain old white, red, or silver. I do get a few gems each year, but I mostly keep it in check. I DO use wallpaper scraps and leftovers... they are magnificent, truly the best. I also love foreign newspapers, any letters that are not going to be kept... Use your noodle, toots... there are lots of ideas here if you forage around!

* Decadent and glamorous... Try silver paper... wide red ribbon... a few cheap but sparkly ball ornaments, and a sprig or two of evergreen.

* Nature stunner... brown kraft paper, simple string or elegant dark plum ribbon... then pine cones, greens (boxwood, small twigs, cedar, etc), whatever you can dig up... Glue to the top, then add some red berries (go faux here... craft stores) and always a touch of silver or gold... a small bauble or a glitter star. You get where I'm going, right?

* Red paper... silver ribbon... the wider the better. Then... my favorite... foil covered Christmas chocolates! I am partial to the big foil covered Santas... but any of these will do... think European here. Yes, Virginia, I really do glue gun these down, but make it quick and painless... You don't want to melt the dear old man, now do you? (Pssst....a few gold coins glued around in small groups is pretty fabulous on this one as well.)

* Wallpaper... flocked is even better (my weakness, naturally). Then wide luscious ribbon (can be cheap as well since the paper will do the talkin')... Add to it vintage inspired goods... velvet leaves, funky flocked berries... the ticket here is the craft store... the Christmas faux / artificial aisle is loaded with all kinds of junk that will make you wild!

Holiday splendor ala Dave and Nettie

I always say that genetics are a strong thing. Aside from the obvious attributes: physical characteristics, personality traits and quirks, health... I am a living testament that the apple doesn't "falleth" far from the tree. Meet Dave (Dad). He has always had a passion for collecting, decorating, displaying... (and chatting). Ring any bells for you?? My parents have welcomed us into their beautiful home, and we're thrilled to have them share their lovelies with us. Here's the first installment at Dave and Nettie's: a warm and inspired holiday display... filled with nostalgia and held close to the heart.

Consider these ideas for your delicious home:

* Pull together an interesting mix of goodies, old and new alike… the mix of textures, styles, and memories is always more interesting than just one type of item.

* Allow yourself to play. Your home is an extension of you and your family. Your display can and should be anything and everything that is meaningful to you.

* Try a few holiday goodies tucked in with "everyday" items: a small lamp, a pretty book, an elegant piece of dinnerware or silver. It makes for a magical combination.

* Don't plan it out ahead of time. Build as you go and enjoy the process... (and consider allowing the little ones in your life to help).

Do you ever... consider homemade gifts and notes from the heart?!

Every year we all run around, lists in hand, trying our best to give the most thoughtful, wanted, needed gifts... We spend oodles of dollars in hopes that the oohs and ahhs are truly touching someone. I am the first to say that time is a luxury in my world (surely you can relate)... so the idea of making something is not always a reality. However, this year I am bound and determined to create a few goodies... from the heart! Some of these ideas will take a small purchase... but nonetheless, each is more or less a DIY.

* An all time favorite of mine is a framed photo with a few sentiments. I will typically print a black and white photo and use a simple inexpensive black frame with a white mat. I always write a bit on the mat... whatever you want, your thoughts, or the dates, or a poem. Dig deep darlings... even sweet and corny stuff is cool here. This is classic and truly something that anyone can put pretty much anywhere. A set of a few would certainly be about the coolest gift to give or get in my book. Wrap them in brown craft paper with a string... Eco-chic. Simple. Done.

* A gift from childhood. No doubt anyone would love something that moved them as a child... It could be something very kitschy... favorite candies in a cool box (think mary janes, bubble gum cigars, boston baked beans, candy buttons, etc.), a game that they loved, a journal that you have written down favorite memories, with a few photos tucked inside. Anything that you have collected that reminds them of their youth will bring a smile to their face.

* Bake something delectable. I would love a baked gift from someone any day... brownies, fruitcake yeah, I may be the only one on earth), bread that can be frozen... cinamon rolls... tie with a pretty ribbon and a heartfelt little note on top.

* Decoupage. This is entirely no brainer... Do not let this simple idea intimidate! Buy Mod Podge... and you can glue and seal photos, papers, any darling scraps of anything, really... onto glass, wood, plastic... find you inner crafty self and saddle up, my loves!

Holiday decorating therapy!

If there is such a thing as "holiday decorating therapy"... I have officially found it! This weekend I found utter joy in flitting from one room to another... donned with armloads of newly cut evergreen boughs (ahhh, the scent - it's truly from the heavens)... baskets of luscious ribbons and sparkling ornaments... boxes filled with memories and a pack of eager little boys ready to decorate anything and everything. To be honest, I'm not sure which of us was more excited... Fin, who was ready to dangle glittered treasures from every surface in the house... or me, always looking for another reason to "add a little something" to a vignette in our home!

So we have this exotic Asian sideboard that sits in the middle of our great room... one of my favorite surfaces to display and change with our family's keepsakes and dusty treasures. Most days, I have an antique zebra rug thrown atop, with some funky retro gilded lamps flanking a mix of this-and-that. 'Twas so easy just to keep building from there as we skipped about with our holiday layer of lusciousness! So really, I kept this so simple... and it looks like I worked for hours. A few pillar candleholders in the center for height... some pine branches nipped from the trees along our driveway... some perfectly tattered red wreaths from the basement (lightly chewed by Christmas mice over the years)... and a rustic cherub that we've adored for decades. A few ornaments tied together with gossamer ribbons... and even a few glittered twiggy branches... (Oh, do I love the craft store... As I say to my friends, buy it once and enjoy it forever!)

So there you have it... my holiday version of our chinoiserie buffet... dressed with a little sparkle. Inspiring to throw together... and won't be a burden to undress come the new year! The explosion of holiday cheer (and stuff) has brought a warmth into our home that I am ever grateful for... the best I can describe, a soulful warmth that brings us all together in such a special way. Here's to home, here's to family, here's to you and yours. Delight in the little things this holiday!

~Tracy

Divine inspiration is everywhere!

If there is any question I am asked over and over, it is "How are you inspired?" Ooh, and it is such a good question! It is a question I too ask anyone who I am curious about... I love to know what makes someone tick... what is it that gets them out of bed, allows them to see things differently than I do. I find people to be infinitely interesting... and really, being curious is really a wonderful thing to be!

Certainly I understand that people want to know why and how creative people are inspired, we all want to be creative in some way... and we all are! Everything is just about perspective, really. How you're willing to view yourself and others around you is a good place to start.

If I am able to zero in on a few things about what inspires me and how I am inspired, I would start with having a very open mind. By this I mean "open" to many things, not just creativity. Having an open mind encourages exploring... It allows me to not shut down other people's ideas and thoughts too quickly. I will tell you this is something I, too, have to work at. Keeping an open mind is something to remind yourself of... going into anything, really. I TRY to do this, I remind myself of it... I even find myself telling others... Okay, here's an idea, keep an open mind. By keeping an open mind, I can find inspiration nearly anywhere I go... in anything I do.

I live in a very small town in Wisconsin and people often wonder how it is possible to design home and fashion from a small town in the country... How could one live there and not in a city? How could one be inspired there? I do think it is understandable how someone could wonder this... especially as I have lived in cities as well and find them to be terribly inspiring... just full of good stuff at every turn, nearly overwhelming me with all the amazing resources available. The funny thing is... inspiration is something that you need to find, not just "outside" yourself... but within yourself as well. Not to get too gooey here, but this is really how I feel about it. It really becomes a matter of willingness at a certain point and the ability to be able to "get" inspired. Where you live has nothing to do with it, really... Not everyone wants to be inspired... (I assume you do, as you have read this far!)

Once you have decided that you do indeed WANT to be an inspired person, and that you want to keep an open mind... you'll find a pretty cool journey in front of you. Creativity is something (as I said earlier) we all have inside of us, so... find it, use it... get a hold of it in whatever way you can... Whatever makes you giddy... gives you butterflies... makes you want to jump out of your skin even if you don't know what to do with it... Do those things. Once you start to realize that those things you've identified are open to you, are yours for the taking... then you can start to channel them.

For instance, last winter my dad, Dave, decided after many bouts with health concerns, that he needed to stop his racing pigeon hobby. It made me sad to see him let go of something he loves so much... BUT one thing I will say about my father is he knows how to mine inspiration and channel it. He always has, I am certain it is one of the reasons I understand it as well. He decided that he would begin a new path... and working with his hands and woodworking was it. Now, I will say I did see several weeks of him looking a wee bit down and out... and then... he found it! He figured it out, he needed something to grab onto. How did he get there? He had to go inside himself and realize that sitting around watching CNN all day was not going to be a very productive thing for who he is as a person. He found inspiration, and now jumps out of bed to get out there and start working on projects... a whole stack of them!

As for me, I look everywhere... I read everything I can get my hands on. I love magazines as they are quick tidbits for me, quick little doses of food for my brain and soul. I adore wandering around bookstores, every aisle... for hours... with some chai tea... I love doing that! I can barely contain myself... I leave so inspired... Sometimes I don't even know what to do with it, but I use every ounce of it.

I also find great inspiration in old movies... I love the sets, the clothing... the way they speak. I find wandering around antique stores, vintage clothing boutiques, or flea markets to be wildly inspiring.

Do you ever read biographies? I love them, just depends on who... but they can really allow me to view things in a new way. I always want to see things from a fresh perspective.

A fresh new blank journal... I don't know why... but just a place for me to scribble my thoughts or make notes... anything that comes to mind.

A few other things to trip your trigger...

* Any form of travel... to see the way other people live. If you can't go, then at least check out travel books... so many good ones... just luscious!

* Food... new foods, unusual combinations... how someone else serves something... I love this.

* Be a voyeur of all things around you... really look at people, and things

* Music... I always have beautiful music on.

* Trying new things in general... do you always wear the same things the same way? If so, make a change!

* Re-using... Oddly, I am very inspired to re-create with what I have... It forces me to look harder at what is in front of me.

* Going to someone else's home... fascinating, wonderful... and so inspiring.

* Force yourself to try at least one new thing soon! Surely there is something on your list.

* Keep lists, notebooks, journals... Write down anything that is cool to you.

* Start a visual journal or tear sheet journal... for no reason but to inspire you. I keep several different ones...

Inspired by nature... splendid outdoor urns

Nature is such an elegant way to add a festive touch to your front door. Two oversized urns are an amazing "anchor" to my sister Robyn's home... as she recreates them throughout the year to reflect the spirit of the season. Inspired by our first snow... Robyn has taken a few simple elements from nature, and has created a warm welcome that reflects her personality, home, and country property. A few delicious thoughts to consider:

* Evergreen branches in various textures... (If you don't have access to fresh greens… artificial branches are lovely and are easy to come by at craft centers.)

* Red willow (or other branches) for height... They also add a wonderful "organic" shape to the arrangements... All are different and beautiful naturally.

* Pinecones... Robyn has tucked pinecones into the urns after all the boughs and branches have been placed... a whimsical touch from nature.

*White mini holiday lights... Add some magic and wind them around the branches... Or, simply push into the urn once branches are placed... with pinecones atop... a warm and beautiful glow.

* Tie a rustic bell or ornament to the urns with a wide piece of velvet ribbon... vintage and inviting.

* Don't feel obligated to have TWO urns or containers... One is just as lovely and makes for an enchanting focal point.

* If you don't have urns... consider some of your outdoor pots that are resting for the winter season... Pull them back out and reinvent them in a new way!

Good for the soul... Holiday CD's!

A few "have to haves" for the season... All are great along with a few candles, and something warm and cinnamon-y in the oven. Oh, how I do love some new tunes in the mix... So good for the soul!! Hope you enjoy... Tracy


THE HOTEL CAFE PRESENTS
WINTER SONGS

Oohhh... A soulful mix of fresh takes on the classics... You will want this on repeat as you're entertaining... or just shuffling around the house in your slippers... My new favorite.







THIS WARM DECEMBER:
BRUSHFIRE HOLIDAY'S VOL. 1

A folksy, relaxed, mellow mix of holiday favorites... easy and fresh.








RAYA YARBROUGH

Beautiful melancholy jazz, easy for any day. Beautiful voice debut album.

A Christmas visit to my sister Robyn’s house... Succulent tips for a festive mantel

I know we've chatted about going to my sister Robyn's house for a while now... Well, she and her husband George have graciously invited us in! Sarah and I spent a good portion of a day filming lots of luscious vignettes in their gorgeous home... We will be sharing tidbits of them... soon. I know you will ask, so I am heading it off... YES, we did film at my mom and dad's beautiful home as well, so... indeed, you are going to get an eyeful over the coming months!

OK... so let's get in here already!! Robyn has an amazing eye and a gift for creating magic with whatever she touches... It is clearly evident on her breathtaking Christmas mantel. So much to take in, I know you may watch this video a few times... Check out the layers! The stone mantel and hearth are knockout, she designed those as well. I love the way she brought nature in so creatively... and then combined antiques with some hand-made touches... Truly, I was so inspired that I set up Christmas in our home with a new found sparkle! I love, love to see what other people do in their homes... I am always amazed at what you can take away from someone else's eye... and find ways of making your own home personal.

A few delicious thoughts...

* Greens on the mantel... artificial or fresh... They add immediate Christmas warmth

* Candles, yes... in small glass votives... consider some red or metallic ones too

* Books, always books... for a vintage feel

* Add some height... this can also come from a mirror that you drape with greens or glass garlands

* A wreath on the wall... or on a mirror hung with a gorgeous red ribbon... simple elegance!

A room of one's own... for making, creating... and just being

I am a big believer that one must carve out a tiny bit of space for herself in her own home. Sounds odd, I know, since it is "your own home" and it is ALL your space... your delicious, personal space... But still, don't you find you need to be alone sometimes to just think...? To go off and create something... whatever you do? Sometimes I find I have this feeling in the kitchen, sometimes in the den... but I know when I go into my craft room, it is a place where I can close the door and just do whatever I want. I can wrap a present in 2 seconds if I want... or, if I am feeling so inspired, I can take my time and glue gun the hell out of one for 15 minutes! I take my tea with me, turn on some music... and I just do my own thing. Maybe I need this because, in the studio, things are moving very quickly every day... and then at home, the kids are on the fly needing something. (Can you relate?) Mind you, it's all good stuff... the studio, the kids... the busy, busy-ness of life! But so is the little escape... no different than delving into a good, juicy novel... I love the chance to putter about... and I get to do that in this room!

My craft room was not actually meant to be what it is now. We had a different purpose for this space... but then it came out of a need that I had. Perhaps there is a nook in your home? It doesn't need to be grand by any means... even a desk of your own... or a tiny walk-in closet to convert... What do you do that you would want a space of your own? Reading, crafting, writing letters...? Then design the space around your needs. I have set up areas in my craft room that work for my needs year-round... I use it as much for gardening stuff in the summer as I do for Christmas stuff in the winter. I keep a good stash of things that I know I will use related to my projects, etc.

A few thoughts to consider...

* Organize your room to serve your needs... It will make you so happy.

* Add some music... just because...

* Lamps or overhead lighting? (I need to see in my craft room!)

* Electrical outlets?

* Will you sit or stand? Can you take chairs or tables from somewhere else in your house?

* Can it be a multipurpose room for you? Crafting, wrapping, storage, writing...

* Cabinets or shelves... maybe some of both?

* Windows... If you can choose a space with windows... do it.

* How will you store things? Baskets, boxes... (Anything pretty is bonus!)

A charming bath... and meet our dogs Teddy & Kit!

I am certain you are wondering how the combination of the boys' darling bathroom and intro to Teddy and Kit came about... right? Okay, well... Naturally our Newfoundland dogs sleep with the boys every night (you know the boys and dogs thing)... and the dogs eventually, after they have slept on the boys' beds for a few hours, end up on the bathroom floor... or in big Ted's case, on the French settee! So it made sense to us that you would get the double whammy... decorating and dogs... are you with me here? We made a big change in this bathroom... The walls used to be a bright celery green, with white wainscoting. It was very charming, but I think based on who our boys are, a tad too sweet for my liking. I wanted something more reflective of their personalities... something with some punch and vigor... something dynamic and rich. I found this fabulous black wallpaper that is flocked with red prancing lion dragons (surely there is another name for those... that's what I call them). I knew I wanted glossy Chinese red wainscoting to tie the whole feel together, including their doors. I picked an intense indigo peacock color for the wall cabinets... I love the contrast against the red... regal, funky... very cool. I wanted to share this as more of a work in progress... I want you to know that while you may think everything around here happens magically and quickly... it simply is not the case. I have yet to find a fabric for the shower curtain... This one is a waffle weave... simple, clean. I want something intense and fabulous... I'll find it soon enough. I also need to get to those walls... I have lots of goodies to put up... some antiques, a few letters from the boys, some of their own artwork... the Pez collection also needs a new home. I will of course... keep you posted!

Do you ever... delight in the little things?

The little things... these words conjure up a thought in all of our minds surely. Maybe they provide different meanings to each of us... perhaps some people have a full grasp of these words and make this part of their being, part of their daily outlook on life. I think you arrive at identifying with certain things at various points in life (we are all looking, aren't we?). It may be part "old soul" in each of us and part aging, and just maybe partly reality check on life... which I am a big believer in anyway... I think sometimes you get it... and then sometimes you just don't.

Surely we have all looked into ourselves and can be critical of periods in our life... It can take some digging but it's there for everyone. I am brought back to all the little things in life that are so very important and truly precious on a daily basis. I will admit it is easy some days to overlook the little things... easier sometimes to keep moving forward, head up, charging through life. I can honestly say that, being a Type "A" kind of a girl, I can fall into the "move on swiftly trap"... step lively... Well, thank goodness I am humbled daily by life. I truly catch myself sometimes in a hurry, moving excitedly through my day, through a moment... I am a very instant gratification kind of a person. I identify things and then move onto them very quickly. I don't ponder for too long. I am not a dweller, I am a mover. I will tell you while most of the time I find this to be a really great thing, it can have its downside as well. So when I tell you to try and see the wonderment of little things... to "delight" in the unassuming things... you must know mining them out of each day can be a struggle sometimes for me as well. It takes time and thought and great appreciation for the day-to-day to be able to see little things... Not always a reality, but very nice when one is able.

The idea of delighting in the little things has always been on my radar, quite possibly on a subconscious level. I suppose it first came from my parents who were very good to create an environment filled with love and beauty. The atmosphere they were able to make was one that inspired and nurtured a creative thought process. I am not even certain that they know how valuable it was, or that they knew they had fashioned this wonderful think tank. But alas, they did! What it did was allow each of us to be more conscious, more aware of things... little things. Little things don't cost much at all, they tend to be either thoughtful gestures or things you can do for yourself that will put a smile on your face... They allow you to feel pampered... and more than that, to be aware of all the beauty around us. We were outside nearly non-stop... making up games, playing in the tiny creek on our country property... catching frogs and crayfish. It all sounds very fairytale and ideal as an adult, and I think looking back it probably was... but all of it was simple, uncomplicated, unorganized stuff.

I will offer that little things can come in any shape or size... like being thoughtful to other people... telling them you are proud of them... Telling them you love them every day, no matter what, will make a huge impact on your life and someone else's. Thanking people, even a quick email or a "thanks for a great day" or "thank you for all that you are doing, I appreciate all of your efforts"... "thank you for the opportunity"... that kind of stuff.

Do you delight in little things like lighting candles in the evening, or lighting a fire? Anytime I light candles it brings me calm... I even keep a beautifully scented one on my desk at work. End your day in a calming way if at all possible. My days often feel like they fly, and then we get home to four little boys who are full of energy, ready to pounce on us, ready for homework or to play basketball... Dinner needs to be made, projects and fundraisers need to be addressed. There seems to always be someone or something that needs attention... and I know this is all of us, each of you have this... and it can overwhelm.

After we make and eat dinner, then read books with the kids, and get them tucked in... I take a nice hot shower... I love it! It makes all of my muscles relax. Then I sit down to read or write, or sometimes watch something that we have TIVO'd. (Man, do I love TIVO!!!) I know if I don't take a tiny bit of time for myself each day, things can get a bit hairy. I try to start each morning that way as well. I get up an hour before the kids and I work out. It is my time uninterrupted... Now, I will be really honest, I'd rather sleep in for sure... but once I am working out, I feel so good about the time I have alone, and the fact that I am able to do something very positive for my body and my brain first thing... it makes me feel very good. Honestly, it is more mental than physical for me... and it's a little thing.

Baking is another little thing that makes our family very happy... The house smells amazing and inviting, and the boys like to help me. Then we are thrilled with the end result (well, most of the time that is). Now, it is messy as all get out to bake with four young boys... but it makes them so happy, I just do it. (The mess makes John nuts, so he just avoids the whole scene.)

A hot cup of tea several times a day is another thing that brings me calm and happiness... I love the ritual, the taste and the warmth. I could literally have a hot cup in my hand all day and night. (Well, actually I prefer my wine at night... but you get where I am going with this one!)

I spoke to a friend today who shared with me a book she is reading about people having "nature deficiency" - meaning, they never enjoy any part of nature. Nature is everywhere, no matter where you live, and it is free! Imagine... something so incredible and accessible to most, available 24/7, that is not being taken advantage of. I realize many people live in the city, and I have lived in the city as well... it is not as easy to get to nature in the city, but nature is still there and widely available. If you are able to get to it, there is much peace to find in nature... and so much entertainment... if you are willing to look. Really, I suppose most of what I am saying is wrapped up in that one small phrase... "If you are willing to look" you will find delight in little things... everywhere!

Other ways to delight in the little things...

* Drink your tea or wine from a pretty glass

* Put mulling spices (cinnamon sticks, etc) on the stove top... Thanksgiving all over again!

* Wrap up an abandoned bird's nest as a be-ribboned gift (I gave one to a 7 year old friend of mine who fancied our collection)

* Walk... anywhere you can

* Write your grandmother or an elderly person a letter... you have no idea the smiles you will give.

* Turn off the overhead lighting... Use lamps and low lighting... ahhh, can you feel the calm?

* Put your pajamas or comfy sweats on the minute you get home

* Fill your bird feeders... I love to see the birds come close to the house

* Put a new stack of books or magazines near your bed to inspire yourself

* Write a note to someone... in their lunch, on their pillow... even a sticky note

* Have dessert for God's sake... even if it is just a few bites... one must live!!

Mushroom Spinach Croustades

This is a simple recipe we've been making for years... a wonderful appetizer for a few guests or loads of friends and family. My favorite thing is that they can be assembled in advance, frozen... and then popped into a warm oven whenever the moment calls... Enjoy these buttery little delights! xoxo, Tracy

MUSHROOM SPINACH CROUSTADES

Croustades
1 loaf Pepperidge Farms very thin white bread
1/4 cup melted butter

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Cut a 2-1/2" round from each bread slice. Brush insides of 2 miniature muffin tins with butter. Gently push each bread round into muffin cups. Bake 8 minutes or until golden.

Filling
3 tbs. minced green onions
1/4 cup butter
1/2 lb. minced mushrooms
2 tbs. flour
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 tsp. salt
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 package (10 oz) frozen chopped spinach, thawed
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Sauté green onions in butter for 1 minute. Stir in mushrooms and simmer uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes; or until moisture is gone. Remove from heat and add flour, stirring until well blended. Add cream and bring to a boil… simmer for 2 minutes while mixture becomes thick. Remove from heat.

Squeeze out and discard as much liquid from spinach as possible. Add spinach and remaining ingredients to mushroom mixture. Let cool.

Spoon mixture into the croustades (can be frozen at this stage).

Bake at 350 degrees for 10-15 minutes.

Q&A... the who, what, where of what we do

* I HAVE ALWAYS LOVED these women... Diana Vreeland, Wallis Simpson, CoCo Chanel, Oprah, Katherine Hepburn, Grace Kelly...

* CANNOT GET ENOUGH... books, fireplaces, chandeliers, chickens and ducks, good food, kisses from my children, dinners out with my husband... people with great attitudes.

* PLACES I want more of in my life... Bali, Spain, London, France, Greece, Brazil, Hong Kong (for now anyway).

* OUR CHILDREN... make us laugh, keep us on our toes, give us more life lessons than anything we've ever experienced, mark time... are darling... spicy... a little loud... lovely men.

* AT THE MOVIES... nachos with jalapenos... then a few handfuls of popcorn... then milk duds. Coke... not Pepsi.

* HIDDEN TALENT... I can eat, like, a dozen doughnut holes in one sitting, and have a pretty okay English accent... but not at the same time!

* BUSINESS IS... keeping an open mind, being willing to have big dreams... challenging, thrilling, surrounding yourself with amazing people... pulse pounding.

* SURPRISING FACTOID to most... I did not go to college... but my crazy motivation has not stopped me! John has a degree in art... but is our financial wizard. How about that?!

* WHEN DINING OUT...? Always a cocktail before wine.

* MY PARENTS ARE (this goes for mine and John's)... so cool, ever evolving, interesting... good listeners... dynamic, creative, thoughtful, loving, generous, supportive... encouraging.

* GUM...? Bubble.

* CANDY...? Sour patch kids.

* FAVORITE QUOTE to team Tracy Porter... OWN IT!

* SATURDAY AFTERNOONS... naps, reading... games with our boys.

* SUNDAY MORNINGS... sleep in, Swedish pancakes, earl grey tea... cartoons... and news... No missions.

* MY WORK DAYS ARE... energizing, ever changing, inspiring... exciting.

* FAVORITE ACTRESS... Cate Blanchet... Just lovely.

* PET PEEVE... crabby people, snobs, whining...

* WHAT I LOVE about designing... NO RULES.

* FAVORITE SWEET CEREAL... fruit pebbles.

* CHILDHOOD WAS... in the country, small town... playing in the creek, making things, always outside or in the barn... simple and lovely.

* TYPE... A

* ICE CREAM FLAVOR... Hagen Daz coffee or coconut... but it has to be superb and real.

* FAVORITE BIRTHDAY CAKE... coconut.

* LOOKS I LOVE... Moroccan, Asian-inspired, bohemian, modern, edgy, vintage.

* MUSEUM OR GALLERY...? Museum any day.

* FANTASY GARDEN PROJECT... Add a stream to our property, all landscaped with grasses.

* FAVORITE TEXTURES... flocking, velvet, aged wood, silk.

* FAVORITE SMELLS... onions or garlic on the stovetop... gardenias... my children... amber, rosemary, wet dirt, horses, leather... early summer mornings

* DON'T WANT TO... be a mountain climber or go sky diving.

* WOULD LIKE MORE... time to read... and to just flit about my house in my slippers and jammies... no mission in mind.

* START MY DAY BY... exercising... makes me feel alive, and my mind & body healthy.

* BOOKSTORE OR SHOE SHOPPING...? Bookstore.

* WOULD BE THRILLED IF... we had a thunderstorm a few nights a week in the summer... and several blizzards in the winter.

* ANIMALS I would like to have, but John would not... a pig, a monkey (small... maybe??), sheep (our flock died off years ago), horses. I think he is into this too. (Again, ours died a few years ago).

* MYSTERY OR CHICK FLICK...? Always a chick flick... especially a weepy one.

* LATE NIGHT (late to me anyway)... Jon Stewart.

* HAIR... ponytail.

* BOARD GAMES... Yes, yes!! Love them. But cannot for the life of me ever play Candy Land again...

* WHY WE STARTED A COMPANY...? Unemployment doesn't pay rent... and self-employment was all we knew... (Well, that and a crazy passion for business!)