THE BLOGGER CONNECTION

Me and Amanda Jaron

When I first started blogging, I did it as little more than to create a place or home on the web where I could show some of my work and have a place to connect with my clients and fellow artists. I really had no idea what I was in for! This seems to be the same story I have heard from so many of my blogging friends. Who knew we were to discover an entire community, support group and social club not bound by miles, age, race or creed? Just a group of people from many different walks of life who share similar interests. Blogging and meeting so many of you over the net has been an unbelievable creative outlet and source of inspiration in my life.

This week I had the distinct pleasure of meeting jewelry designer and fellow Floridian and blogger, Amanda Jaron. She is actually the first blogger friend I have met in person and it took another blogger all the way in Scotland to connect us! Ronda Carman of All The Best had featured Amanda and her beautiful jewelry designs on her blog over a year ago and when Amanda saw a post Ronda did on me shortly after that, she contacted me and we realized we were both in Florida and not too far apart.

Amanda left her glamorous and fast-paced New York life a few years ago to live her dream and raise her family here on Florida's Gulf Coast. Her company, A. Jaron, has been expanding ever since. Her upscale and sophisticated designs are featured in many Saks Fifth Avenue stores across the country, as well as on her website and the Home Shopping Network. We just had the first opportunity to meet this week.

Amanda is a lovely, warm and talented person and it was such a joy to meet her. There was so much to talk about and it was very interesting to get to know her a little. If you are not familiar with her work, please take a moment to check out her website and blog. It's great to meet a fellow artist and blogger with whom I share many of the same challenges and passions in life. I hope there will be many more meetings with so many more of you bloggers out there!! I look forward to it!

ARE YOU A FOODIE?

I absolutely LOVE to eat. When I do watch TV, it's often something on The Food Network. I even enjoy painting food (see image above). My friend Sabina, over at Barefoot in the Orchard posted this amazing list she found on the blog Very Good Taste. It includes 100 items that every omnivore should try in his or her life. You are supposed to copy the list from Very Good Taste's "The Omnivore's 100" and post it to your blog, bolding the items you've tried and putting an asterisk by any you would NEVER try. (Although, I have to say, the tale of Green Eggs and Ham does come to mind...)
It's a fun little exercise if you've got some time to kill - I've tried 38 out of 100. Not very impressive, but there are some on the list I just COULD NOT stomach.

1. Venison
2. Nettle tea
3. Huevos rancheros
4. Steak tartare
5. Crocodile (I HAVE tried alligator)
6. Black pudding*
7. Cheese fondue
8. Carp
9. Borscht
10. Baba ghanoush
11. Calamari

12. Pho*
13. PB&J sandwich
14. Aloo gobi
15. Hot dog from a street cart
16. Epoisses
17. Black truffle
18. Fruit wine made from something other than grapes
19. Steamed pork buns*
20. Pistachio ice cream
21. Heirloom tomatoes
22. Fresh wild berries
23. Foie gras
24. Rice and beans
25. Brawn or head cheese
26. Raw Scotch Bonnet pepper*
27. Dulce de leche

28. Oysters
29. Baklava
30. Bagna cauda
31. Wasabi peas
32. Clam chowder in a sourdough bowl
33. Salted lassi
34. Sauerkraut
35. Root beer float
36. Cognac with a fat cigar*
37. Clotted cream tea
38. Vodka jelly/Jell-O*
39. Gumbo
40. Oxtail
41. Curried goat
42. Whole insects*
43. Phaal*
44. Goat’s milk
45. Malt whisky from a bottle worth £60/$120 or more*
46. Fugu
47. Chicken tikka masala
48. Eel
49. Krispy Kreme original glazed doughnut
50. Sea urchin
51. Prickly pear
52. Umeboshi
53. Abalone
54. Paneer
55. McDonald’s Big Mac Meal
56. Spaetzle
57. Dirty gin martini*
58. Beer above 8% ABV*
59. Poutine
60. Carob chips
61. S’mores
62. Sweetbreads*
63. Kaolin*
64. Currywurst
65. Durian
66. Frogs’ legs
67. Beignets, churros, elephant ears or funnel cake
68. Haggis*
69. Fried plantain
70. Chitterlings or andouillette*
71. Gazpacho
72. Caviar and blini
73. Louche absinthe*
74. Gjetost or brunost
75. Roadkill*
76. Baijiu*
77. Hostess Fruit Pie
78. Snail
79. Lapsang souchong
80. Bellini*
81. Tom yum
82. Eggs Benedict
83. Pocky
84. Tasting menu at a three-Michelin-star restaurant.
85. Kobe beef
86. Hare
87. Goulash
88. Flowers
89. Horse*
90. Criollo chocolate
91. Spam
92. Soft shell crab
93. Rose harissa
94. Catfish
95. Mole poblano
96. Bagel and lox
97. Lobster Thermidor
98. Polenta
99. Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee
100. Snake*

WEEKEND PLANS?

A little relaxing by the pool

Attack on the racks - a huge Lilly Pulitzer sale

A great local stationery shop with a myriad of choices for a paper junkie

More Lilly - definitely perfect for South Florida

A beautiful finish to the day

Here's a few photos from last weekend. I must admit that Winter in South Florida simply cannot be topped. Even when there's work to catch up on, it's great to spend a little time outside. Nothing like soaking up a little sun to energize me! I wish you all a warm, relaxing weekend. See you on Monday!

MONOGRAMS AND MANICURES

I just wanted to say a special thank you to a terrific client and fellow blogger, Helen, at Dallas-based blog Monograms and Manicures. She wrote a super nice post on my work this week! I greatly appreciate it, Helen!

CARLETON VARNEY - MR. COLOR

The soothing pale pink of the walls with the stronger colors is a perfect combo.

That sofa fabric! LOVE it.

A bright and comfy sunporch.

The strong graphic quality of the striped walls and zebra runner makes for a peppy and youthful entrance. (photos by Mikkel Vang courtesy of House Beautiful)

I must admit that I don't know a lot about design legend Carleton Varney. I was vaguely familiar with him just by virtue of the fact that I have been reading decor mags since I was about 10, but lately I have learned a bit more via other blogs and the latest issue of House Beautiful.

This man loves color and has quite a way with it. Having grown up partially in the Great Lakes area, I am well acquainted with the lake cottage subculture there and when I saw this charming home in Egg Harbor, Wisconsin, I was captivated. I love cottage style and the warm informality that it exudes. So, having said that, I just HAD to post a few of the photos here. The colors, the painted wood floors and all the light soaking into the place are so inviting. An interview with Mr. Varney and a complete photo tour can be seen here.

SHE'S NOT JUST FROM ELF ANYMORE.....

The first time I can recall seeing this uncommonly likeable actress with the standout name, Zooey Deschanel, was in the slapstick Christmas flick "Elf". There she had her famous shower rendition of "Baby It's Cold Outside". Well, now she is sporting brunette locks and going strong on multiple fronts. Her home is featured in the most current issue of Domino, which appears on newsstands tomorrow. You can see some out-takes of the photo shoot online here.

CONGRATULATIONS, KAREN

"Grandeur" by artist Karen Albert

I would like to offer a "Congratulations" to my friend and fellow artist/blogger, Karen Albert, of Kansas City. She was recently profiled in Kansas City's arts publication and has several upcoming shows set for the new year. She is a talented woman and lovely person. You can check out her blog here and find out more.

MORE ON MY PLATE.....

I can hardly believe we have just ushered in 2009! I am lining up work now for this new year and already working on new commissions from clients. This piece was recently commission from me by a client in Dallas as a gift for her mother. She loves blue and white china and porcelain. This particular piece I painted was an antique "Blue Willow" patterned plate. Is there something you collect that I could capture for you on paper or canvas? Please don't hesitate to contact me here for more information.

ANOTHER INTERIOR VIEW

This framed print of my painting"Green Mirror with Candlesticks"is available now in my store. (click image for larger view)

Here's a new print available now, framed in a beautifully detailed 8x10 gold frame.

WINTER BLOOMS

These old fashioned David Austin roses are my favorite flowers. The multitude of petals and heady fragrance outshines any hybrid.

This particular rose is called "Abraham Darby" and is one of the prettiest, I think. This rose is a very old one and goes back to the 1800's.

A pot with geraniums and scaveola - not bad for a little Winter foliage, eh?

The petal count on these old roses is phenomenal!

They thrive in Winter here in Florida with all the sun and cooler nightime temps.

These hibiscus blooms are the size of a salad plate!

Anyone who reads this blog regularly knows that I am quite a fan of South Florida and love the climate, not to mention living a couple of miles off the Gulf of Mexico and the gorgeous Winter and Spring seasons here. One of the biggest perks has to be the beautiful trees, plants and flowers that bloom year-round. Having grown up with the harsh Winter climate of Michigan, I savor every luxury that living in the tropics affords. I just thought I'd share a few photos of some of my mom's roses and blooming plants around her pool that I took this week. It's always a treat when she cuts some roses for me and I can enjoy having them in a vase in my work space.

BELLA - A GREAT STORY

Looking for a good flick this weekend? I am not a big movie person, as it seems the majority of stuff out there is not worth the time, money or effort. However, if you want to see a great film with a little substance to it, I wholeheartedly recommend Bella. My brother put me onto it and I thoroughly enjoyed it. A great story with terrific acting and very artistic production. In short - very refreshing. The lead character is also the producer and Eduardo Verastegui is impressive. A ton of heart was infused into all aspects of this film and I don't think you'll be disappointed on any level. All the accolades it has received are very well-deserved. Enjoy your first weekend of the year and I will see you back here on Monday!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

This was a commission for a client celebrating a special wedding anniversary. Chinese take-out and champagne were a special tradition for this couple.

Whether you are headed out to a celebration with friends or opting for a cozy night in with good food and someone special, I wish you all a very safe and happy New Year's Eve and a 2009 filled with peace, hope and love. Thanks to all of you for enriching my life so much this past year - I look forward to a new year and many new additions to Annechovie. But the best part is always getting to know and work with so many of you!

EVERYTHING'S ROSY HERE

Two beautiful chairs in Rubie Green fabric transformed by Molly Worth

Love this toile makeover by Ruthie Sommers

Punchy raspberry chairs (I think this is from Traditional Home)

This memo-board style room is unique

Love this pink sofa in Anna Spiro's home

I like this painting (source unknown)

Mathilde Agostinelli's fetching dining room

I have a distinct weakness for pink in many shades. When I was little, I earned the nickname, "Pinky" from my grandmother's neighbor, because my mom dressed me in mostly pink. As I got older, I tried to get away from that, but never really succeeded. I must admit, I am drawn back to it time and again. So, here's a few photos from my files of some lovely pink things. Regrettably, some I neglected to label and so their source remains unknown. I am working on being a better "labeler". That can be one of my new year's resolutions! I hope everyone had an enjoyable long holiday weekend - are you back to work or still on break this week?

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

Christmas 1982 - Ta-daaaaa!! Me, my brothers and cousins usually provided the after-dinner entertainment for the family gathering, jacked up on some sugary dessert, no doubt. (that's me - crazy girl with the braids)

This was an especially memorable Christmas (1976) because my grandfather made me my own mini stove and refrigerator in a dazzling varnish-coated plywood, long before Pottery Barn Kids' more souped-up versions. The doll was named "Pumpkin".

This is me and my little brother, Josh, circa 1978. Dig the bedhead? I got my first pair of roller skates and he got a shiny new tricycle, so we were definitely happy campers.

I want to wish each and everyone of you a very Merry Christmas!

Christmas is a very special time for me and always has a way of stirring a lot of different emotions. It's a time to reflect on not only the year past, but the years past as well. To remember all that I've been blessed with, but also to remember the loved ones who are no longer with me and all of the special Christmases I spent with them. When I was little, there was the rush of expectation and euphoria associated with what presents I would receive. I could never eat or sleep very well because I was so excited. That's not quite the case any longer, but as I think about why I celebrate my Saviour's birth, deeper feelings leave more of a lasting impression on my heart than the fleeting excitement of what was under the tree for me. I am truly blessed and no matter what the future holds or what tough times I have faced in the past, I have a lasting hope and peace that transcends time and circumstances. I always think about that scene from "The Grinch Who Stole Christmas" where the Grinch is poised looking over "Who-ville", gleefully anticipating the devastation that will inevitably result in their community because he has done everything in his power to steal everything that he thinks holds value for them. Much to his surprise, his gloating is met with the sound of joyful, grateful, overcoming voices. Voices demonstrating the fact that celebrating Christmas has so much more to do with where your heart is, than what you may have or do to celebrate it. That kind of joy can't be stolen by anyone or anything.

I am so grateful for each of you (readers, clients and fellow bloggers) and wish you a very Merry Christmas. For my wonderful friends who don't celebrate Christmas, a very Happy Hanukkah and Happy Kwanza - you guys get to spread out the fun!

THE PERFECT SETTING FOR SLOWING DOWN

This cozy and elegant room was designed by the legendary John Stefanidis

Posting may be a bit light this week as I take a much-needed breather and celebrate Christmas with my loved ones. I thought this room provided a very cozy backdrop for a holiday get-together in these warm red tones. Sitting by the fire, listening to some Christmas music, sipping something hot while relaxing with friends and family, it all sounds very attractive to me right now. What are you most looking forward to this week?

LAST DAY FOR FREE DOMESTIC SHIPPING!

Just one of the ready-to-ship items available in my shop

Just a reminder that any orders over $20 from my Etsy shop through midnight today will receive FREE domestic shipping!

BRAINDEAD CREATIVE SEEKS RESPITE

Although using luminaries to decorate is not a new concept, it never fails to look festive and beautiful!

I really love it when unconventional colors are used for Christmas wrappings - these are luscious color combinations.

Something about cut paper holds such appeal for me. Aren't these wreaths pretty? Reminds me a bit of Tord Boontje's work.

No mantel for your stockings? Here's a clever solution.

Right-brained me was feeling a little depleted in the creative department. I LOVE what I do, but once in a while, when I've been working a lot, I know I don't have it in me to cook up another creative thing. That's when it's better to just shut off my brain and go look at what someone else has done. That exercise never fails to refresh and inspire me. This time I went to Living, Etc. where I swiped these lovely photos. Where do you go to get inspired creatively?

A LOT OF CHARM DOWN UNDER

Ok, this is where it all starts. There's something about a gated entrance that ramps up the anticipation of entering someone's home.

Anna Spiro's charming living area

I am wild about these black and white striped awnings that she has chosen to cap all her windows with.

The white tole chandelier is a lovely touch, don't you agree?

A nice variation a matching dining set adds a great deal of warmth

This is one of my all-time favorite wallpaper patterns, by Manuel Canovas. This color is amazing!

Another of the perfectly charming little vignettes Anna is so talented at putting together.

Another feature I am loving, this Carrera marble-topped kitchen island with pink slipcovered stools.

View into the sitting area from the dining room

I think this is a very clever and unusual version of a bathroom vanity - very cottagey.

This post is a completely unabashed rip-off of Anna Spiro's post on her beautifully renovated home in Brisbane, Australia. Most of you have probably already seen this, but I was so taken with what she's done, that I quickly saved all the photos from her post so I could digest them at my leisure and save them for my inspiration file. The white painted floors, the awnings, all the white with pops of bright color, I could go on and on. I have long admired Anna's style, in both her home and her shop and am privileged to call her a friend through blogging. She is incredibly talented and the kind of person I would trust wholeheartedly to design a home for me. I don't think I've ever seen a single design she's put together that I wouldn't love living in or with. You can see her entire post here on her juicy, drool-worthy design blog, Absolutely Beautiful Things. Anna has one of the most popular design blogs worldwide and I am sure if you haven't already discovered her work and blog, you will thoroughly enjoy following it.

NOT YOUR TRADITIONAL STOCKING

My friend Annie in New Jersey makes the prettiest stockings I have ever seen! Not the furry red kind that look like a nightmare steering wheel cover, but truly classic stockings that are, in themselves, a work of art. Her fabric choices are gorgeous and her attention to detail meticulous. Be sure to check out her Etsy shop here! Her company is called Firefly Hill Designs and she also makes lovely bags, belts, sachets and all sorts of beautiful items perfect for giving.

FREE SHIPPING THIS WEEK ONLY!

I hope everyone had a great weekend and your holiday preparations are coming along well. Just wanted to let you know that, from now until December 19th, there is free ground shipping within the US for any order over $20! Pictured above are a few selections from the many items offered in my shop - all great for gifts and stocking stuffers!