I am kind of obsessed....

This is Zentique's new Horse Head Lamp. I am dying for it!!! It is so unexpected and whimsical. I really believe this would fit into a variety of rooms. I am thinking of it for our den, but maybe even our living room. Where would you put it in your own home? Love it or hate it?

Amanda

A few tips to cozy up a room...

It is always important when decorating a room to keep it cozy. You do not have to have dark paneled walls to give off a warm feeling. The two rooms below are perfect examples of that. They have light walls and are done to perfection. They both are warm, and looked lived in. I have listed a few accessories that are great ways to warm up a room, and won't break the bank.

Photo via House Beautiful designed by Kay Douglass

Photo via House Beautiful designed by Barbara Westbrook

Warm wood accessories and furniture are a great way to cozy up a space.

Antique Wood Dough Bowls by Blue Ocean Traders

I am a fan of having at least one throw in each room. It should look like something you want to wrap around you and curl up on the sofa in.

Belgian Linen Knit Throw Restoration Hardware $99.00

Pottery adds a nice texture to a room. Place on a cocktail table with some greenery and you are set.

Leah Vases and Bowl by Pottery Barn $24.00-$69.00

Texture is a great way to warm up your room. Baskets can be a great place to store throws, extra pillows, and magazines.
Round Rattan Basket from Ballard Designs $79.00

Books always add a little something to a room. I have stacks of books on my cocktail table. These old stacks of books are great for bookshelves, tables, and baskets.

Antique Book Bundles from Ballard Designs $18.00

Candles, candles, candles. Nothing creates a mood quite like candlelight.

Ivory Pillar Candles from Restoration Hardware $49.00-$199.00

If you want a more dressed up look, set your pillar candles on these gorgeous wood candlesticks. Groups of candlesticks create drama, and look beautiful

Florentine Wood Carved Candlesticks $39.00-$199.00

So remember having a cozy room doesn't mean you have to paint in a dark chocolate. Just make sure it a space you want to read, relax, and curl up in. The most important thing is that it works for you and your family.

Amanda

Living Room Additions

Now that my new sofa has made itself comfortable, I notice I need a few more items to accompany it. Below is a little wish list of some things that would really compliment the sofa. Once again, budget was not an issue, since this is wishful thinking. Sigh.

French Armoire from European Antiques

Othello Iron and Mirror Cocktail Table from Ateriors

Stag Side Tables from Bliss Studios

Antique Italian Chandeleir from Tara Shaw Antiques

I am sure I could go on for days with things I want or need, but this is a start. Drapes, and oushak rug, and even a new piece of artwork over my mantel would be a few more items on my list. I will save those for another day.

Amanda

CHILLS!!!!

I tried to wake up early for the Royal Wedding. I didn't do very well. I am not a morning person. I did manage to remember to record it, and my reaction to her dress was chill bumps. I thought she looked effortless, classic, and for lack of a better word...pretty. I loved it. I love them. I love fairy tales. Sometimes it is nice to sit back, relax, and enjoy the small exciting things in life. We are surrounded by disaters, war, and economic woes everyday. What is the harm in wanting to celebrate something beautiful and romantic?

Amanda

I need to add a little spark to my uniform...

I am the first one to admit I wear the same basic outfit everyday. I like a white tee and jeans. I also think a whit tee and jeans is a great canvas for some bold accessories. Here are a few that have caught my attention, and have been added to my wish list.

MAVEN DROP HOOP EARRINGS

LULESTE MARKET MARBLE CHOKER

LOVE QUOTES(MY FAV) SCARF IN SUNSHINE

BELL PEPPER BAG

MODERN MASTERPIECE CUFF

SKY RENDERED TURQUOISE POST EARRINGS

CRESENT HOOP EARRINGS

Amanda

It finally came!!!!!

So do not shoot me for the terrible Blackberry photos. I am not going to lie, at first I wasn't sure I loved it, or even liked it. It is a big dramatic sofa. Then I thought about it, and I am a big, dramatic person!! It is perfect for me!! Jimmy Dean made an appearance in the photo too. The colors are way off, but you get the general idea. It makes me even more ready to do more stuff!! Sorry Paul!!

This is a better shot of the color. It is pattern Bristol Metal from Lee Industries. It is a rich grey-brown. It also has the most awesome sheen to it!!
Lolly is a big fan. She is the exact same color!! I am not sure if that is a good thing or a bad thing...

Amanda

Splurge vs. Steal: Giant Clam Shell

It may be because summer is just around the corner, but I cannot get enough of these giant clam shells. They look beautiful alone, or with a beautiful orchid and moss planted in them. They can come with a hefty price tag, so here is my splurge vs. steal on giant clams.

Splurge: Mecox Garden Large Clam Lambock Shell $1,375.00

Steal: Giant Clam Shell by Kenroy Home $127.00 @ Bellacor.com

Amanda

images courtesy of designdna, elle decor, mecox garden, and bellacor.com