The last few weeks we’ve been doing a lot of gardening. I am an amateur gardener at best. I try lots of stuff and see what works. A few years ago we took out our kids play structure and replaced it with garden boxes, a bench and a fire pit. We were totally excited to start planting. What we didn’t realize is the big beautiful tree that shaded our kids area also made growing veggies more difficult. Live and learn! What I have found is that some veggies like the half shaded area. We grow cauliflower, strawberries, broccoli, leeks and a few other veggies here. Tomatoes didn’t do so well so we plan to set up another box on our super sunny side yard. I’ve also recently started tucking veggies into pots with flowers. On my front porch I am growing jalapenos and rosemary. I have a separate flower box that I’ve planted mint. Make sure to plant mint separately otherwise it takes over the whole garden. I have seedlings for basil, cilantro and chives that I plan on adding amongst flowers. I hope this year I finally figure it out and have a very bountiful season! If you have any gardening tips I’d love to hear them!
One of my favorite design collections is Mediterranean Dreams. I love the colors and the feeling I get when I see it. We have fabric that is out now in this pattern but we are also developing home decor products using the collection for Surtex and the Licensing Show. I would love to see pillows and sheets in this design. For home decor we softened up the tones a bit, the fabric collection is brighter. You can also currently purchase wall murals from MuralsYourWay. Below are the original design collection we did and also two color variations. Hope you like them!
If you are attending either show, swing by our agent’s (Jewel Branding) booth and say hello.
Surtex, May 19-21, 2013 in New York City, Booth 408
Licensing Expo, June 18-20, 2013 in Las Vegas, Booth 2964
My favorite – I wish this was my house!
Even though it is raining outside and there are a bunch of dead leaves on my lawn, I am dreaming about spring and summer when I can be outside enjoying my yard. I love when all of the flowers are blooming and the vegetable garden is overflowing. I have a lot of work to do in my yard but with the cold weather I have a hard time motivating my lazy ass to get out there. But I definitely like to collect inspiring pictures of what I hope my yard will look like in a couple of months! I love using both Houzz.com and Pinterest to collect ideas. Here are some of my favorites from both sites and you can tell that I love the whole cottage garden concept and who wouldn’t love to have a pond a little boat in their yard?! What I really want is the house above, garden, picket fence, bike and all! And if it is a block from the beach, bonus points.
I love adding pops of color and bold graphics to a home. The key to achieving the perfect balance is to keep it balanced. If you are looking for an easy way to add a graphic pop, try painting a wall with chalkboard paint. It allows you to change it up whenever you want, like with the seasons or holidays. Another great idea, add a large letter or monogram to the wall. You could even take a sharpie to a kids room, just make sure they don’t see you doing it or you’re in trouble! Have an all white room? Adding a few bright colors will make it come to life. If you’re still not sure about what to add or afraid to make a commitment with paint or furniture go for a big graphic canvas. You can find tons of great ideas on Houzz.com and Pinterest.com.
