Nostalgia, American Style and other ramblings.

I arrived home yesterday.  I have to admit I'm going to miss the palm trees and the wide open, blue skies. Autumn definately is in full swing and hoodies, sweaters, and heat systems are on.  A week ago I was in an enviormnment that was in the 90's.  I've had lots of ups and downs looking for a home out west and have realized the real estate market is a jungle. You don't really know who you're dealing with. There were many, many short sales.  There were hardly any privately owned homes on the market.  Here's the deal; One has to have money in hand, or proof of a loan that has already gone through, to actually put in an offer that will have any sort of respectful look from the bank. THEN one must wait at least 2 weeks (if you're lucky) for just a reply.  Sometimes the waiting period can be months.  In the meantime I guess we would need to find a place to store our things and rent a living space.  Geeeeesh!!! Can you tell I'm discouraged?  Well, I have buried a St. Joseph statue by our "sale pending' sign in our front yard and both my husband and I had little chats with Joseph himself. I have done all that I can do and now I'll let go. 



In the meantime, I am still in awe over the beauty that surrounds me.  Here are some wonderful musings for your enjoyment. Thanks to "American Style" by Kelly Kiloren Bensimon, "Real Life Renovating" by Lyn Peterson, "Pottery Barn" hardbacks, and "Organized Living" by Dawn Walters. 

My all time favorite, designer Betsey Johnson....her tademark is doing cartwheels down the runway!!!

Seriously?  Ralph Lauren......amazing!

J-lo has set some pretty amazing trends for the good ole US of A.

Rosie Riviter, the woman who went to work when the men off to war in the big one....WW2

Edith Head, costume designer.

Jean-Michael Baswuiat, known for his 'street' style.

The hippy movement brought people back to quilts and hand sewn garments.

Gotta love Kansas! Those sunflowers take the cake.  Miss Rodeo

Beautiful bo ho. This outfil is a Donald Brooke's design who was famous for his printed dresses.

Maybe this bird wasn't eaten.

We'll need to ask Marlo. (Marlo Thomas)

I don't care what you say, Marlon Brando was to die for. A true hottie.

I love Marilyn to this day.  She was an American beauty and her story was just as amazing as her persona.

AND as Thanksgiving is approaching, I've got to be honest with you. I'm not looking forward to it.  My wonderful kids and grandkids are at least a thousand miles away, and honestly, we can't afford to just hop on a plane anytime we want to spend time with them.  HOWEVER, I have captured some pics of tables, kitchens and homes that might cause you to be inspired to nest.

Shopping in NYC??? Oh yes....Come on Christmas~

Some great shapes and colors for you to ponder.  They remind me of summer.

Holidays in the winter just aren't the same without a fireplace.

With family visiting for celebrations...guest rooms are the best.

There are many things in your own back yard to make holiday's special.

Thinking about my princess Maya, I would love to do her room like this. Just a throw in here. But had to do it because of the color, the fun and the relaxing, natural feel.

I hope you all have a great week.