Blogging Tip.

Being yourself might not make you popular, but authenticity is more important in my book. It makes for more lasting and meaningful relationships in the long run. I love my little blog circle; old and new friends.  Blessings and have a beautiful day everyone! xx

Masks.

I love masks and I have a small collection that I’ve been trying to figure out how to put in a collage. However, there  are some masks that are scary looking and I doubt I could have them above my bed. Not. even. for. art’s. sake. Speaking of masks, I am sharing 25 things that you didn’t know about me on Hollie’s blog. You will be shocked, mouth agape when you read some of these things:-). Please say hello and check out her blog. I met Hollie, a talented designer on Instagram and I adore everything she creates. She also has an etsy shop called Pillotopia. Lots of eye candy. Blessings and have a lovely day my friends. XX

p.s. thank you all for the anniversary wishes. one luv.

Saved by the Little Black Dress(LBD).

On Friday, we celebrated our 14th wedding anniversary. Yippee! We are beyond proud of this milestone! To celebrate, we were going to attend a local cocktail event and initially I planned on wearing a pair of dress pants with a lovely top. I really do not own many dresses(more of a pants and sometimes skirt wearing type of girl).  However, I did a quick google search before getting ready and found out that dresses were more appropriate for cocktail events. I didn’t know that!  I went into panic mode for a few minutes until I remembered that I had the perfect little black dress(lbd) in my closet. Whew, I was relieved!

I accessorized with leopard cuff that was handmade for my birthday a few years ago and the heels are BCBG. Is the little black dress your go to for a more dressed up affair? Are pants a no no for cocktail events? Fashionistas, do share your input! Blessings and happy Monday everyone! xx

All Black Everything!

I’m guest posting today over at the very artistic Kerry Steele’s blog. Do check it out and say hello. Thank you for doing so! Now, let’s start our engines and drive off to explore this black trend that can be quite fabulous, sexy, and edgy if done right…

Nate Berkus’ bathroom; love!

I’m sure many of us have incorporated this trend in our wardrobe, but what about in our interiors? Are you loving this trend? Personally I love it and want to start by painting a few interior doors black. Do share your two cents. Blessings and Happy Thursday. xx

images via my pinterest

Mod Colour!

I love how Spanish people tend to embrace colour and pattern unabashedly! This home is in Barcelona and I love every quirky, eclectic, colourful corner!  Blessings and thank you to everyone for your continued support!  xx

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Thrifted.

I purchased the lamp above for $1.87 at a Goodwill store recently. It swings in different position and the vintage appeal just beckoned to me. The lamp didn’t come with a shade(not sure if there was one originally). However, I like it without a shade.



The black tubular section was originally a creamish color, so I spray painted it black. I like the gold
and black combination more.I would love to get one of those cool looking vintage bulbs, but either way, it makes a great reading lamp. It was also a great steal; can't beat that!

AND

a few of you may have already seen this handmade blanket on Instagram. I also scored that at Goodwill  for less that $3. It’s crotched using a multi -colored  striped pattern. I knew it was made with lots of love and undoubtedly took a long time to complete because it is a great size. I love it!

Baby Ian seems to love it too? Not sure if he’s smelling it or snuggling… Blessings and one love. XX

Fall in August: Layers and Dining Alfresco

Gisele in H&M Fall 2013 editorial

Today’s weather totally caught me off guard with the cool temps. I had to go rummaging in my closet to find my sweaters(sweaters that I put away gleefully in anticipation of the warm summer). Did you experience this type of weather too? Based on tomorrow’s forecast, it seems as if this cooling trend will continue which means

dining alfresco will be a very pleasant experience; no. bugs.

Some Alfresco Dining Inspiration:

via the style-files

via 79ideas

Hopefully, this weekend, I won’t be needing a long coat like the one that the oh so gorgeous Jennifer Lawrence(featured in Vogue’s September issue) is wearing.  However, I will happily wear that scarf! If you follow me on Instagram(@designaddictmom), then you know that I spend A LOT of time outside with the kiddos, playing, eating drumsticks, grilling etc.

 Thus, I will enjoy my bug free alfresco experience while it lasts. Blessings and have a wonderful weekend everyone! XX

{other images: tumblr, google}

A Charming Cottage in England.

Located across the High Weald, this charming cottage nestled among beautiful gardens can be found on the side of a hill that is just on the East Sussex side of the Kent/Sussex border. Its charm is quite captivating…

I would rather run away to this cottage than face the overwhelming job of cleaning that lies ahead since the last of our visitors just left. Quite charming isn’t it? How about that outdoor space; swoon! I am also showcasing a simple diy on my talented and lovely friend, Linda’s blog today. I would love to know your thoughts if you have time to take a peek. Thank you! Blessings and have a wonderful day everyone! XX

{images: via, via}