Kitchen Prep

When my husband and I bought our house, we considered the kitchen a space we'd live with for awhile but eventually spruce up. We like the layout but the cabinets, countertops and appliances are a bit dated, and the lighting is pretty terrible. We're hoping to repaint the walls, paint the cabinets and get new countertops this spring. In addition to researching how to tackle some of these projects, I'm also scouring the web and magazines for visual inspiration. I like these kitchens by Candice Olson, featured on hgtv.com. I like how they're a mix of modern and glamorous. I could definitely spend some time in these spaces!

Photos from here. 

Anything but Calm

What a wonderful weekend this was! I got to spend it with three lovely girls I've been friends with since we were nine years old. We had a blast! We went out for pizza and brunch, strolled the farmers' market, had a cookout and stayed up late into the night laughing and sharing stories at a sleepover, just like we did for years and years growing up. My pup joined in on the girls-night fun, too. Regardless of how much time passes between seeing one another, I love how we always pick up right right where we left off. It was fabulous sharing a long weekend with these amazing friends!

Photos from here.

Stark Contrast

There's something about these paintings, part of the Keystone Series by artist Katherine Sandoz, that I find mesmerizing. I love the distinction between the pristine white and thick black, and the way the abstracted forms seem to depict very specific places in nature. I find myself getting lost in these scenes.

Photos from here. 

Warming Up

It was a lovely weekend. The weather was gorgeous and we took lots of walks outside. I love this time of year, and all I want to wear are dresses, dresses, dresses. I like combining them with light cardigans and pretty sandals now and ditching the extra layer when the weather gets even warmer. Any of these dresses from Blanco would make quite a nice addition to my collection -- and help me look forward to the sunny weeks ahead.

Photos from here. 

Simple Plans

Ahhh, it's Friday and the weekend is almost here. I'm looking forward to a family dinner,  gallery hopping with my husband, lots of relaxation and some walks with the pup now that spring has arrived. Happy weekend to all!

Photo from here. 

Chill

Yesterday I had a meltdown. I've been fortunate so far in my pregnancy not to feel very sick, but being tired and emotional and seeing my body change has been a bit tough. I was feeling fat and icky and crabby and decided to go for a run yesterday morning. Just as I was about to leave, my husband gave me a compliment. I realize now that I should have smiled and thanked him for the nice words. Did I do that? No. I blew up at him and told him my body is no longer an acceptable topic of conversation, then bolted off on my run. Nice, huh? I later apologized and he was very sweet and understanding, but sheesh, I need to get a handle on this!

I should try to calm down -- relax, take a breath, appreciate all the wonderful things around me. Maybe I'll browse through this gorgeous, cozy, serene New York country home, featured on House to Home, and pretend I'm lounging there today! 

Photos from here. 

Happy May!

This month I'm looking forward to soft watercolor hues, pretty dresses, fresh air, open windows and flowers, flowers, flowers!

* Peony photograph

* Pillow

* Dress

* Earrings

* Sandal

* Room