tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69832901044832246152024-03-18T23:32:12.630-05:00* T h e * V i s u a l * V a m p **the*blog digest*covering*decor*fashion*interior design*travel*trends*art*music*television*movies*life*The Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.comBlogger1489125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-28952999799235869402022-03-29T13:41:00.018-05:002022-03-29T14:38:55.981-05:00At Home with Designers and Tastemakers <p><i>This blog post written and produced by Valorie Hart </i><br /></p><p><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: small;">It's been a long time since I have done a bona fide blog post. Like many, I "evolved" to Instagram and Facebook. Scrolling, not reading has become most popular. In recognition of all the old time bloggers that started a like minded community of decor and design enthusiasts, I'm doing a blog post. One of those bloggers is Stacey Bewkes of <a href="http://quintessenceblog.com">quintessenceblog.com </a></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: small;">Stacey started blogging in 2011 (I started in 2008) and added fabulous house tours (At Home With) beautifully produced and edited videos, forerunners of what we now think of as vlogs. She started this endeavor with her partner, the author of many, many wonderful design books, Susanna Salk. Susanna says, "I had only met Stacey for a couple of minutes when I had the idea for our video series. Of course, I already followed the much revered blog Quninessence". Susanna is the on-camera person guiding the tours and interacting with the homeowners (who for the most part are designers, decorators, and what we now refer to as tastemakers). Stacey is behind the camera, video and still. You can find these delightful videos on Quintessence, and on it's own YouTube channel: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUx6S_LagwMBTgQvQAu__FQ">Quintessence YouTube.</a></span></span></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ9T9Pv9FPxtVHNdkS-4eqxNdMPH0L1BnY9c-S68awyK2ow4ThvFzq-E6giccjOQ8qnAJ3ujnJHPUBJrntGXt-nUhvlpFIuA3a4FGMdBZqRxrF3FmKISWhByMeZP0Td7PqTWFaS_tQ_qgxxzm75uKbSP1YBf7dy57178vaXcd4CHdOh5UfWLm3cNFuwA/s1000/IMG_8881.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="709" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ9T9Pv9FPxtVHNdkS-4eqxNdMPH0L1BnY9c-S68awyK2ow4ThvFzq-E6giccjOQ8qnAJ3ujnJHPUBJrntGXt-nUhvlpFIuA3a4FGMdBZqRxrF3FmKISWhByMeZP0Td7PqTWFaS_tQ_qgxxzm75uKbSP1YBf7dy57178vaXcd4CHdOh5UfWLm3cNFuwA/w454-h640/IMG_8881.jpg" width="454" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Partners Susanna Salk and Stacey Bewkes<br /></td></tr></tbody></table> <p></p><p><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: small;">I have seen everyone of these videos. Millions have viewed them too. Every time I am captivated, inspired, and transported. So now these two have done a fabulous book together based on the videos. I used to screen capture images from the videos for my photo collection file. The quality was lacking to say the least, but I often gladly referred to these poor things. Now we have Stacey's beautiful photos in a book to have and to hold, along with Susanna's always charming, chatty, and informative writing. Wow!</span></span><br /></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisORMtDPGRlJNT6P3xDG34im0PWClzBUUHGK9VrPJmS3oI1qOa1ZXDY8WuhI3JpQaBOUU90X4QuPx9ip3K8C4oB-4BAHbLZnSUkQYAYhF4ib2X6z09w3iBgzU_fOg3k8uR_f0zwZMvZtK6ff4ZbwDoHq8TClMMyf5VDhLnNAPNZbNRmBssfJX_gbbjpw/s1024/IMG_8869.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="810" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisORMtDPGRlJNT6P3xDG34im0PWClzBUUHGK9VrPJmS3oI1qOa1ZXDY8WuhI3JpQaBOUU90X4QuPx9ip3K8C4oB-4BAHbLZnSUkQYAYhF4ib2X6z09w3iBgzU_fOg3k8uR_f0zwZMvZtK6ff4ZbwDoHq8TClMMyf5VDhLnNAPNZbNRmBssfJX_gbbjpw/w506-h640/IMG_8869.jpg" width="506" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>At Home with Designers and Tastemakers by Susanna Salk and Stacey Bewkes published by Rizolli<br /></i></td></tr></tbody></table><p> </p><p><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: small;">From the moment you open the book with the beautiful end papers of the Schumacher wallpaper print "Plates and Platters" first seen tacked to the kitchen walls in the video house tour of Johnson Hartig's Los Angeles home, you know this book is going to be exciting. Susanna has the wonderful viewpoint of us using things seen in these marvelous homes, reinventing a version of them in one's own space. She tacked a yard of this wallpaper to her own kitchen wall, and I in turn cobbled together a few samples of it, and stapled it above my stove after I saw the video. The whole idea of paying forward beauty is a continuation of the way the bloggers of yesteryear shared ideas and encouragement.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: small;">Sixteen homes are featured in the book. A couple of my favorites are not included, Ken Fulk's in Provincetown, and Christopher Spitzmiller's Clove Brook Farm. To be fair Spitzmiller has his own fantastic coffee table book of the farm, and Fulk's body of work has also been widely published. It must of been very hard to narrow it down to just sixteen. Maybe At Home2 will be forthcoming (fingers crossed). </span></span></p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXviKrHAzKhrLGSVDJRHOrHWiMXB6QpEHsonkmgYbcINMb6PDjBfqXDEF7rWAAiA7lRrgLRuYlFNaztqrd2WWAhLsRcY2LvcElLu3tpq7HkdQDzH1u2YsfqqTkxgHklgJ7BzZkfOMwTVJMOeWPky-SvF-NwbEPPcEULupjzxlUD3MZpJpyLz67awt2eA/s913/IMG_8875.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="913" data-original-width="750" height="631" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXviKrHAzKhrLGSVDJRHOrHWiMXB6QpEHsonkmgYbcINMb6PDjBfqXDEF7rWAAiA7lRrgLRuYlFNaztqrd2WWAhLsRcY2LvcElLu3tpq7HkdQDzH1u2YsfqqTkxgHklgJ7BzZkfOMwTVJMOeWPky-SvF-NwbEPPcEULupjzxlUD3MZpJpyLz67awt2eA/w519-h631/IMG_8875.jpg" width="519" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNlciAYgfM0pTgh8pdSvPt652NL8cx97Oil4W0NBAvFyy2lsLnzhLPCohBlZedeyvfs8XtfA95B8JN75nSRx9xtPawCVJ4D3rwF6Ow_lCIgXbLOyZgC5bnajPlnp9b5EitBGvlGuV28Xnp6YMZapUlsJYpoxZ01YSB-1st7oL3TxltYZ6KNNAH5THb-Q/s933/IMG_8876.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="933" data-original-width="750" height="665" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNlciAYgfM0pTgh8pdSvPt652NL8cx97Oil4W0NBAvFyy2lsLnzhLPCohBlZedeyvfs8XtfA95B8JN75nSRx9xtPawCVJ4D3rwF6Ow_lCIgXbLOyZgC5bnajPlnp9b5EitBGvlGuV28Xnp6YMZapUlsJYpoxZ01YSB-1st7oL3TxltYZ6KNNAH5THb-Q/w535-h665/IMG_8876.jpg" width="535" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: small;">I "know" so many of the sweet sixteen from following their work over the years. The tagline for the title of the book is "Creating Beautiful and Personal Interiors". It's always rewarding to see how designers decorate for themselves. The common denominator is a love of beauty, of travel, of high class<strike> hoarding </strike>collecting, of entertaining, of art, of friends and family, of wit and humor, of years of experience, of a love of books, of a love of gardens.... Many of us can relate. Even though their are some deeper pockets than we mere mortals might have, the creativity if there for the taking. I love expensive wallpaper and I was only able to use it once in my bedroom in my New Orleans home, a mural from Anthropologie that coincidentally Susanna used in her son's bedroom. Otherwise I stapled inexpensive fabric to my walls, and lately did a a wall in my living room of stapled up wrapping paper with a whiff of DeGournay chinoiserie. </span></span><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="height: 583px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; width: 494px;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9W1ZnpeBITJg7syH_O63o6V8aSjT0dLGntk52HYePYZ28hTEA3CMZabXV-Bzro6qM-IoEMMGG7zidNdkLl_APSq212Lv7RqhrkINO9oxgHa7_Ou4n99-KNzAs4xrN7Led3--l_R4uf22yJv8s1hMmjZLlG7nSIT0rBEFtKu3z8wTLUwK3XTSuOL0Dag/s450/IMG_8878.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="314" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9W1ZnpeBITJg7syH_O63o6V8aSjT0dLGntk52HYePYZ28hTEA3CMZabXV-Bzro6qM-IoEMMGG7zidNdkLl_APSq212Lv7RqhrkINO9oxgHa7_Ou4n99-KNzAs4xrN7Led3--l_R4uf22yJv8s1hMmjZLlG7nSIT0rBEFtKu3z8wTLUwK3XTSuOL0Dag/w279-h400/IMG_8878.jpg" width="279" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Jill Sharp Weeks has always been generous corresponding when I reached out to her since her days at Ballard - Even though we never met I feel the connection as I do with many of you. Her Charleston home featured in the book is a thoughtful study of the natural and organic.<br /></i></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i> </i></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i> </i><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: small;">Besides my admiration for this book, I admire Susanna and Stacey for sharing their vision. They financed the videos (travel, etc.) from their own pockets. They came together in their love <span>of beautiful places. Their "overnight" success many years in the making is well deserved. My work with the photographer Sara Essex Bradley is like this. We have shared ten years of producing articles and books of things that inspire and excite us, and that we want to share.</span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: times;"></span></p><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6wJG8QzLTepcopD72DS4ulTkYEnWlOxfLmJyaQqVVuykFQMCHiCElW7q4-BzL_l4x7-PY0mZIO_3tLaiisfqgo7z7W3d51HPCGSXCxi8w_GLThKh48fQtT3Az5-ENqxb00Yck_MrDOo2gqzJtuKvY21k5Kzpb9xAjD80qCMazH1U_0h6VvBq9A66DgQ/s452/IMG_8877.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="452" data-original-width="341" height="657" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6wJG8QzLTepcopD72DS4ulTkYEnWlOxfLmJyaQqVVuykFQMCHiCElW7q4-BzL_l4x7-PY0mZIO_3tLaiisfqgo7z7W3d51HPCGSXCxi8w_GLThKh48fQtT3Az5-ENqxb00Yck_MrDOo2gqzJtuKvY21k5Kzpb9xAjD80qCMazH1U_0h6VvBq9A66DgQ/w495-h657/IMG_8877.jpg" width="495" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: times;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCuMvHg4U-G4CmjadEmPnUZlAlizJ_R4e18tyGTB2xgaijrkgTZnGSSDlPtSONYtaa-k6qNbjaf6ZeP8lSSMW-Km9DiFPTEGbM6MOknV91kNUFOKKpSvLy99o74dMY6iMwM8s2U8_WHm2lpC4Z_FhzGLpFhVS9u3wyj1wbWxUY8gTv17xzl9ilEuvuiQ/s4112/IMG_8870.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4112" data-original-width="3380" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCuMvHg4U-G4CmjadEmPnUZlAlizJ_R4e18tyGTB2xgaijrkgTZnGSSDlPtSONYtaa-k6qNbjaf6ZeP8lSSMW-Km9DiFPTEGbM6MOknV91kNUFOKKpSvLy99o74dMY6iMwM8s2U8_WHm2lpC4Z_FhzGLpFhVS9u3wyj1wbWxUY8gTv17xzl9ilEuvuiQ/w526-h640/IMG_8870.jpg" width="526" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwpEU1sEnojI2XBVINiuerCOsfQHTZBiriuvpDudh1wL5L5FcTJhk2ReJraKZze7h7QH-tEMFYaO8MGR0tL2-2xLZZNGtc60xuUs4oY35yBEZY9aUTk9al03t69K4ets5s8oNyksWkygu6CKAg2ig89b_giNyIscNTDZgC3Htxg5z49P8bxxFI9GJvXA/s453/IMG_8879.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="453" data-original-width="342" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwpEU1sEnojI2XBVINiuerCOsfQHTZBiriuvpDudh1wL5L5FcTJhk2ReJraKZze7h7QH-tEMFYaO8MGR0tL2-2xLZZNGtc60xuUs4oY35yBEZY9aUTk9al03t69K4ets5s8oNyksWkygu6CKAg2ig89b_giNyIscNTDZgC3Htxg5z49P8bxxFI9GJvXA/w484-h640/IMG_8879.jpg" width="484" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirFMHQ_yorL3cDyIPNygghY6dNTJ7GuiQ4yPkAdEPRL0LKE9BaTIPI9Jhb2-2XjoT9mjqaLC231oCUXhVLQUOKWF6igvm6DJGQXT2vV5MJGPLCF4UXveBgbdti-81dW9BMv3vIlL2VSFlka7ishtsndFBgtjn_WMuHf60q-2T1pD0HVV3If5hYfMA1hA/s3985/IMG_8871.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3985" data-original-width="2988" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirFMHQ_yorL3cDyIPNygghY6dNTJ7GuiQ4yPkAdEPRL0LKE9BaTIPI9Jhb2-2XjoT9mjqaLC231oCUXhVLQUOKWF6igvm6DJGQXT2vV5MJGPLCF4UXveBgbdti-81dW9BMv3vIlL2VSFlka7ishtsndFBgtjn_WMuHf60q-2T1pD0HVV3If5hYfMA1hA/w480-h640/IMG_8871.jpg" width="480" /></a></div></span> <p></p><p><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: small;">As you scroll through these few images from the book I have added here, Susanna's home, Martin and Karen Cooper, Lulu Powers, Johnson Hartig, be excited to get the book to treasure for years to come. It will be a great reference source, an inspiring read, an impetus to recharge your home decor, and just generally fun and uplifting. </span></span></p><p><i>I dedicate this return from the blog crypt to the wonderful community of bloggers past and present. So many of you have stayed in touch with The Visual Vamp for so many years, and I am grateful. </i><br /></p>The Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-24120391990464965992017-03-09T11:53:00.001-06:002022-03-29T11:15:15.481-05:00Orange DrapesOrange is a color that remains popular for drapes. Here in New Orleans silk taffeta, or silk drapes still rule the day. Not everyone has the budget, and I have been using a faux silk drapes found at Overstock, Half-Price Drapes, and through Houzz. Right now Houzz is having a great sale on these drapes.<br />
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The trick is to have custom rods and rings made. I use Shading Places, (<span class="_Xbe _ZWk kno-fv"><a class="fl r-i5Prix3LCUnc" data-number="+19853734134" data-pstn-out-call-url="" data-rtid="i5Prix3LCUnc" data-ved="0ahUKEwiX0cmZ-snSAhUFMSYKHQ9yChkQkAgIaCgAMA8" href="https://www.blogger.com/null" title="Call via Hangouts">985) 373-4134, ask for Jennifer. My rod of choice is return to the wall.</a></span><br />
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<span class="_Xbe _ZWk kno-fv">Here's the link to <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/84064191/Harvest-Orange-Faux-Silk-Taffeta-Curtain-Single-Panel-50x120-traditional-curtains">Houzz sale. </a></span><br />
<span class="_Xbe _ZWk kno-fv">And the link to<a href="https://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Exclusive-Fabrics-Harvest-Orange-Faux-Silk-Taffeta-Curtain-Panel/8494372/product.html"> Overstock.</a></span><br />
<span class="_Xbe _ZWk kno-fv">Also the link to<a href="https://www.halfpricedrapes.com/harvest-orange-faux-taffeta-silk-curtains-drapes.html?gclid=Cj0KEQiAl4TGBRDhgvmikdHPsdABEiQAtBcc8DXuI5OBxfDO9wtF6aZywyB-X1T4nbcS0eRZhigpoLEaAroX8P8HAQ"> Half Price Drapes.</a></span><br />
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<span class="_Xbe _ZWk kno-fv">Usually when a sale like this is so widespread the merchandise is about to be discontinued. So get them now!</span><br />
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<span class="_Xbe _ZWk kno-fv">The high end drapes in the second picture were made by Perch. Shading Places also does beautiful high end drapes, and is part of my team. The "low" end drapes in first photo are from Overstock and are also sold via Houzz.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWRTgOss0z5znnUaQ0_KXgAs-ZFRLquR2FzsMsh_zM6MNyYzf1fLEZRWzi-HSNkPBnOyBurR5iELxd-QpOSowxWBo_yWi5CfeuHPYAr7J3PqESKDnimuLqtnprqOgFynH2pSCHg4eV5JJi/s1600/erica+orange+drapes.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWRTgOss0z5znnUaQ0_KXgAs-ZFRLquR2FzsMsh_zM6MNyYzf1fLEZRWzi-HSNkPBnOyBurR5iELxd-QpOSowxWBo_yWi5CfeuHPYAr7J3PqESKDnimuLqtnprqOgFynH2pSCHg4eV5JJi/s640/erica+orange+drapes.png" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Faux silk drapes in Harvest Orange I used for a client on a budget - Interior Design by Valorie Hart</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiU1bHyVKrDmEQGj0x-W5o6tnpbWkgwB46MFlfd2QWmuvfOQuI1fQJL02i5Db1DTZ8Yj8W78uzF8IqIxyFDkEjr-7MstNOkKx8ZgtOLd9PCudNXRqCdy5GO22yTfawWI32tch4WVI0Qui_/s1600/9930f89db3bb01c289a068e924f4dcf4.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiU1bHyVKrDmEQGj0x-W5o6tnpbWkgwB46MFlfd2QWmuvfOQuI1fQJL02i5Db1DTZ8Yj8W78uzF8IqIxyFDkEjr-7MstNOkKx8ZgtOLd9PCudNXRqCdy5GO22yTfawWI32tch4WVI0Qui_/s1600/9930f89db3bb01c289a068e924f4dcf4.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">High end drapes in apricot silk I had custom made for a client - Interior Design by Valorie Hart</td></tr>
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<span class="_Xbe _ZWk kno-fv"><br /></span>The Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-53130355640999270762017-02-03T10:41:00.001-06:002022-03-29T16:53:58.974-05:007 Southern Designers With the Best Pinterest Account<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqnPhYukcJ2R3ZnqBbYKHk9d7XnD4TWKGt03rNFLddRlU7OW1DoAsLri7QYE1YaYrVzRuu7u9mtmCMe3bu2b8BRGbklI6FMOVb7MvC4Dw0v5y2JmyMNKcLwlM7eMtRN6tTFTC2iSeiVK-T/s1600/whLBj6khzTn0dGBLSK9CMuY-U9L_E6NvoZzv-pmpfPIBdf064AiiRni1iHOKTSVB57I4A0u7moOAdeDWu4CYuqSiCV0YFB5OJFtKoPqdlQLbe4azx3RfPXzyF6G5qLRweocQjGcKNXdqT80vn6UnPgXFBxie-uthemyz2KiRHWqpfrtXZNkG5t4RvcWOfv9vJ3zE4F3GsKCh7l3o%253Ds0-d.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqnPhYukcJ2R3ZnqBbYKHk9d7XnD4TWKGt03rNFLddRlU7OW1DoAsLri7QYE1YaYrVzRuu7u9mtmCMe3bu2b8BRGbklI6FMOVb7MvC4Dw0v5y2JmyMNKcLwlM7eMtRN6tTFTC2iSeiVK-T/w400-h224/whLBj6khzTn0dGBLSK9CMuY-U9L_E6NvoZzv-pmpfPIBdf064AiiRni1iHOKTSVB57I4A0u7moOAdeDWu4CYuqSiCV0YFB5OJFtKoPqdlQLbe4azx3RfPXzyF6G5qLRweocQjGcKNXdqT80vn6UnPgXFBxie-uthemyz2KiRHWqpfrtXZNkG5t4RvcWOfv9vJ3zE4F3GsKCh7l3o%253Ds0-d.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div class="field-deck main-article__header-subtitle">
Lost in the endless inspiration scroll? Follow our favorites.<br />
</div>
<div class="field-authors article_image_content">
Zoë Gowen </div>
<div class="field-authors article_image_content">
Reprinted from Southern Living </div>
<br />
Pinterest is a pretty gigantic place to navigate. It only takes
following a few overly zealous or off-target pinners to ruin your
personal inspiration board. Hats off to these seven that never fail to
deliver thoughtfully <a href="http://www.southernliving.com/home/decor/unsophisticated-home-decor?iid=sr-link2" target="_blank">edited Southern decorating ideas</a>.
<br />
<b><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/theenglishroom/" target="_blank">Holly Phillips @TheEnglishRoom</a></b>
– This Charlotte, North Carolina-based designer and blogger has an
eclectic eye for vintage, but she always pins rooms that are still
squarely Southern. The colors combos alone in her staggering 73k pins
are reason enough to follow her. <br />
<b><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/babuh/" target="_blank">Alice Waters</a> </b>–
Truth be told, I was looking for the famed chef Alice Waters in search
of soulful and healthy recipe ideas. Turns out, I had the wrong Alice
Waters, but this Alice who is based in Fort Worth, Texas is way more up
my alley. I’m also unsure if she’s actually a designer, but I’m making
an exception because her boards are always right on point to satisfy (or
ignite) any home dream of mine. Her Architecture and Exterior boards
are my favorites to ponder. <br />
<b><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/thevisualvamp/" target="_blank">Valorie Hart</a> </b>– If you’re looking for <a href="http://www.southernliving.com/home-garden/decorating/new-orleans-home-design" target="_blank">New Orleans style</a>
to come alive via Pinterest, this is your account. From the kooky, to
the colorful, to to-die-for antiques, Valorie’s pinterest is one
exciting show not to be missed. <br />
<b><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/gadabout/" target="_blank">Gadabout</a></b>
– This Pinterest account is the inspiration playground for South
Carolina-born, Louisville, Kentucky-based graphic designer Hanna
Seabrook a well-known graphic designer behind the company, Gadabout. On
her pinterest, you’ll find homes and interiors with a fresh, yet
aged-look – quite possibly the ultimate compliment to give any
Southerner about their home. <br />
<b><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/parkerkennedy" target="_blank">Parker Kennedy</a></b>
– Palm Beach preppy ideas galore are sourced throughout these boards
from this Atlanta-based design duo. It’s nearly impossible not to follow
an entire board with 1103 pins devoted to <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/parkerkennedy/bamboo/" target="_blank">bamboo</a>. More practical sounding boards like “Chic Appliances and Fixtures” and “Fences” are also seriously helpful.<br />
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<b><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/ellyposton/]" target="_blank">Elly Poston</a> –</b>
Our list wouldn’t be complete without mention of our own former
Associate Decorating Editor. Her boards are fun for anyone to peruse,
but in-the-trench decorators will appreciate her board “Decorating
Details.” Non-decorators can think of this board as a free design
service. <br />
<b><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/Ballardfounder/" target="_blank">Helen Ballard</a> </b>–
You may recognize the name. Yes, she’s the lady who founded Ballard
Designs. As you’d expect, her Pinterest pages are filled with ethereal
and European-rooted design ideas. If you love the natural look, follow
her now. <br />
The Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-92064470224499946962017-01-28T20:08:00.001-06:002022-03-29T16:57:07.136-05:00Report From The 2017 NOLA Home ShowHome shows are so much fun for people who love to decorate, design, renovate, and build. The 2017 NOLA Home Show has some great vendors for you to check out. The show runs from January 27-29 at the New Orleans Morial Convention Center in Hall I. Hours are 10AM - 8PM on Saturday and 10AM - 6 PM on Sunday. There is free admission for Baton Rouge residents in light of the flooding they experienced this past August. I'll be a guest speaker at 1 PM on Sunday on The Williams Sonoma Stage and signing my book House Proud at booth 139 after my presentation. Hope to see you there!<br />
<br />
Here are some of my favorites at the show... <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBKxL1KVBlTjaxqYCZV8sYO1g-GOXtxi2kwXCLNp6c8qU_qh1MVzz4xbx6NWXgwd8hitlB6fOa7yXAf5rvocAJwE-cFML7CgXXvMJjmoeY8TbGshKboqfmKikhf_ZKhWiObPGu2GSMPFdx/s1600/show+nomita.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBKxL1KVBlTjaxqYCZV8sYO1g-GOXtxi2kwXCLNp6c8qU_qh1MVzz4xbx6NWXgwd8hitlB6fOa7yXAf5rvocAJwE-cFML7CgXXvMJjmoeY8TbGshKboqfmKikhf_ZKhWiObPGu2GSMPFdx/w400-h344/show+nomita.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The women from <a href="http://sprucenola.com/">Spruce</a> have a spiffy booth showing off beautiful wallpaper and fabrics </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF73HV53nz89lIZgw-G3HoY7RIXXkKhyphenhyphenvx9IvoaHjbCDv5d-8JJrn-aslmYHTOqq_lkrlRUGlAi1W-m_g0NBzapDKYO_5R7SuFkQA6hc7gYOI4QHwZD6T-wqCBis8OKB9cx9_AQkOSziYQ/s1600/show+canal+1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF73HV53nz89lIZgw-G3HoY7RIXXkKhyphenhyphenvx9IvoaHjbCDv5d-8JJrn-aslmYHTOqq_lkrlRUGlAi1W-m_g0NBzapDKYO_5R7SuFkQA6hc7gYOI4QHwZD6T-wqCBis8OKB9cx9_AQkOSziYQ/w400-h400/show+canal+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://canalfurnitureliquidators.com/">Canal Furniture Liquidators</a> is one of my favorite places to shop in New Orleans</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ufxQYeS6CDug7QPdhhs1AAVWmSwqwKhpZ9HJzMf6K1Uboplu6sNiBrTPJEKQVLracT0Anb8h6BKrVjPV_pQYIw_G0rQc7fD7ZTb8xoe9PYxxq5zdQOfiASAB-t0z4UmEbC0OQRTb_RTR/w400-h400/show+canal+valerie.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Valerie from <a href="http://canalfurnitureliquidators.com/">Canal Furniture Liquidators</a>-Go stop by and say hello-Tell her I sent you</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgftNpgfokEVTZobmWc9TLwIyNzJ1QCtLHgf6WRAJzKVdBgqN7AMn4DiMvYmZx0yPLSnSKQUFxdW1VylB3vh02UFgBPVS_fTmhinsKDwCXLalG30t2l4_rBL7N9t9qQT2mfSjU-lMhXCHTD/s1600/show+canal+sconce.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgftNpgfokEVTZobmWc9TLwIyNzJ1QCtLHgf6WRAJzKVdBgqN7AMn4DiMvYmZx0yPLSnSKQUFxdW1VylB3vh02UFgBPVS_fTmhinsKDwCXLalG30t2l4_rBL7N9t9qQT2mfSjU-lMhXCHTD/w379-h400/show+canal+sconce.jpg" width="379" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I may have to pick up a pair of these sconces at <a href="http://canalfurnitureliquidators.com/">Canal Furniture Liquidators</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM8dNCBrTHlUMFCNeJvBGiThQKkKBIxF2xrM5ffF9qSvdLvEXlJq_6lEeWOCs4fzY2M5x4Px2ODDn0H6c5WsdaI-GrvxkvIKvPC46BZL_6g-cYQ9S96rd3T7hTjWN-WsWwDTohfAyXz8SE/s1600/show+at+home.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM8dNCBrTHlUMFCNeJvBGiThQKkKBIxF2xrM5ffF9qSvdLvEXlJq_6lEeWOCs4fzY2M5x4Px2ODDn0H6c5WsdaI-GrvxkvIKvPC46BZL_6g-cYQ9S96rd3T7hTjWN-WsWwDTohfAyXz8SE/w375-h400/show+at+home.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cute patio furniture from <a href="http://athome.com/">At Home The Furniture Superstore</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmpkpvnmZnGO4vEQmVBqtOUrOltOwn_3Hqw0YxXdHR5m17PQG9GGATsyU9QMA1g9raubMEJ575iQPuEXqWXf9HkaSxOC7ZHdKyzqL1RnQzWPbn64aHXKgfMQzOIKCuAmrUYR74gCRQvSdO/s1600/show+handles.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmpkpvnmZnGO4vEQmVBqtOUrOltOwn_3Hqw0YxXdHR5m17PQG9GGATsyU9QMA1g9raubMEJ575iQPuEXqWXf9HkaSxOC7ZHdKyzqL1RnQzWPbn64aHXKgfMQzOIKCuAmrUYR74gCRQvSdO/w361-h400/show+handles.jpg" width="361" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some fab gem blingy handles from<a href="http://legendinteriorsinc.com/"> Legend Interiors</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2cJ51I3CVBBzLjI-aqXuDiv4dSbqgrp2gxc6b6tWBsHoDEVcEsY1824lCKGRfea_WzR8NgP2Lnb9BNL8xkPfr5n3Y1PJzpTe1cXGd5aTGa2eSZ9eGbtO9DOLU74f9_d-Kt6RXV65cGDrR/s1600/show+somoma.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2cJ51I3CVBBzLjI-aqXuDiv4dSbqgrp2gxc6b6tWBsHoDEVcEsY1824lCKGRfea_WzR8NgP2Lnb9BNL8xkPfr5n3Y1PJzpTe1cXGd5aTGa2eSZ9eGbtO9DOLU74f9_d-Kt6RXV65cGDrR/w400-h400/show+somoma.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://williams-sonoma.com/">Williams Sonoma</a> has a spiffy booth at the 2017 NOLA Home SHow</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb8C_EcmX0nyQTM21l8u2Ok_cx9LBqbQgAaVyk1c1tI5HS7BvQ9P9X0NEi9LrLUGsR9DWfD4GtZ_gZppfXoZCzafWDl_2zyM7VYijq0MVCZz4HkDJjuCZpASR67NUIk7hLK7-umUrssn-4/s1600/show+cooking.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb8C_EcmX0nyQTM21l8u2Ok_cx9LBqbQgAaVyk1c1tI5HS7BvQ9P9X0NEi9LrLUGsR9DWfD4GtZ_gZppfXoZCzafWDl_2zyM7VYijq0MVCZz4HkDJjuCZpASR67NUIk7hLK7-umUrssn-4/w346-h400/show+cooking.jpg" width="346" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There are cooking demos all day with local New Orleans chefs at the <a href="http://nolahomeshow.com/">2017 NOLA Home Show</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG750G8R-Fz7mn1VNEOYqi92xslBz8eVn9YwrBgI8pJkwr9Czf0ofsUZynqmdoR9nP-yiFYGhB5tFRDTBd-2WjV_UxA5SU8wK4_CgXF58RNqfDFSGvKyLZ2ZQTcXnbeWZWXnby9RAC981Q/s1600/show+furnish.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG750G8R-Fz7mn1VNEOYqi92xslBz8eVn9YwrBgI8pJkwr9Czf0ofsUZynqmdoR9nP-yiFYGhB5tFRDTBd-2WjV_UxA5SU8wK4_CgXF58RNqfDFSGvKyLZ2ZQTcXnbeWZWXnby9RAC981Q/w400-h400/show+furnish.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/FurnishMetairie/">Furnish</a> has some lovely handcrafted furniture</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCXcbAsJNVgQOpndqqZ3VQZBpQVZcnDNDpi-Y8sajcYYGAWtCK5g2uL9gINK311K-AwWLRdz7QG6LVqB-V2f1E_gq_3vDe0EIlPIQJoqDppGFFXHZYKbemicBSE8htsVDydnSSX5QNN-85/s1600/show+garden.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCXcbAsJNVgQOpndqqZ3VQZBpQVZcnDNDpi-Y8sajcYYGAWtCK5g2uL9gINK311K-AwWLRdz7QG6LVqB-V2f1E_gq_3vDe0EIlPIQJoqDppGFFXHZYKbemicBSE8htsVDydnSSX5QNN-85/w400-h400/show+garden.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This lush garden was created by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fourseasonsgw/">Four Seasons Groundworks</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXjn4FVw8PUOq2FdL_IvpJF4jm7GCEtLhkBEUUBi5Wu8dj_1MIMvKdrIa7YFm9WzXC5r1ukt7HkcODawdA4ob3iuadMJYzEhONHcJrfzTJNpip9MEBkovx-4FoaMmZc5xuzL9O9HOPjvpN/s1600/show+flambeaux.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXjn4FVw8PUOq2FdL_IvpJF4jm7GCEtLhkBEUUBi5Wu8dj_1MIMvKdrIa7YFm9WzXC5r1ukt7HkcODawdA4ob3iuadMJYzEhONHcJrfzTJNpip9MEBkovx-4FoaMmZc5xuzL9O9HOPjvpN/w400-h368/show+flambeaux.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We love our gaslights in Louisiana and<a href="http://www.flambeauxlighting.com/"> Flambeaux</a> has a great exhibit</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ5QpzMmxZ_pbGq9WTW_vGOHzqZlBwPM7-54Kj7PrQ2m2K_l3BO1LQ9UsxD3VoAOm5KwqVmGTGQqtdDgTFbGOg9EreSLwG5UcneysYpKe7Zz_Wkq_aAcvoGYCS_gqbaxznt5U93EriSppo/s1600/show+spoons.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ5QpzMmxZ_pbGq9WTW_vGOHzqZlBwPM7-54Kj7PrQ2m2K_l3BO1LQ9UsxD3VoAOm5KwqVmGTGQqtdDgTFbGOg9EreSLwG5UcneysYpKe7Zz_Wkq_aAcvoGYCS_gqbaxznt5U93EriSppo/w400-h400/show+spoons.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One exhibitor near the entrance is selling these beautiful wooden spoons</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5g1MuwPOoMJ6m7Oh7IeT_w17sF9Kd89evi3MobUrppCRopHGUgRQYzOoU_cOoBLtkSg6uUlS8i6PZ0HEY_46L26PGdepYmKBU43580qCW1U_lEqHK1obkC4DDPzf7kO9xfwB2hvOa3bts/s1600/show+patio.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="399" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5g1MuwPOoMJ6m7Oh7IeT_w17sF9Kd89evi3MobUrppCRopHGUgRQYzOoU_cOoBLtkSg6uUlS8i6PZ0HEY_46L26PGdepYmKBU43580qCW1U_lEqHK1obkC4DDPzf7kO9xfwB2hvOa3bts/w400-h399/show+patio.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://customoutdoorconcepts.com/">Custom Outdoor Concepts</a> has an imrpressive exhibit</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuhUatNypE77UgeUgHrUV079DYpcxBXvCBmqmTaZ9QFSvk2TP6J5zD1lqlGnAhihlBVz0-0zNpf-Au4qjX5Yvj8r2A761VDq56Cf7p93eGO0uvlf9lSWTkx3Cc1k-Kf7ocxfOCgMEz5stD/s1600/show+jewels.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuhUatNypE77UgeUgHrUV079DYpcxBXvCBmqmTaZ9QFSvk2TP6J5zD1lqlGnAhihlBVz0-0zNpf-Au4qjX5Yvj8r2A761VDq56Cf7p93eGO0uvlf9lSWTkx3Cc1k-Kf7ocxfOCgMEz5stD/s640/show+jewels.jpg" width="347" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Even a home show needs some glam and<a href="http://facebook.com/glitzgalorenmore"> Glitz Galore</a> has some cute things</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisdcPEbTPiabGV1yPYNZMvwAxE1-pjOgcDKXadRWCSM9gaUNa3R4nytq_Uzh4td8QAF3TiSrS-cJP2Jna8DNIOxsN_OtuNSFWjlRPuPay_nz4pyXthss76irpeSfg4zsCeMp40uxde2Sa1/s1600/show+photograhy.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisdcPEbTPiabGV1yPYNZMvwAxE1-pjOgcDKXadRWCSM9gaUNa3R4nytq_Uzh4td8QAF3TiSrS-cJP2Jna8DNIOxsN_OtuNSFWjlRPuPay_nz4pyXthss76irpeSfg4zsCeMp40uxde2Sa1/w400-h400/show+photograhy.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://mayphotogallery.com/">May Photography</a> has some great art</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBVLJMJEKjK26-9cyuUAEP3xyVOzoV_dBcvyxdhHeK_0UMdEIovRqH1ImaORQAqjYkBEmOc9LnZYt57WqkeW1dSdFXdJFbIRjBaAP6xmmB1WxBiRDmK_e-nN7lGnHJNy_5JqrGTPJVltN5/s1600/show+woodworkers.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBVLJMJEKjK26-9cyuUAEP3xyVOzoV_dBcvyxdhHeK_0UMdEIovRqH1ImaORQAqjYkBEmOc9LnZYt57WqkeW1dSdFXdJFbIRjBaAP6xmmB1WxBiRDmK_e-nN7lGnHJNy_5JqrGTPJVltN5/w346-h400/show+woodworkers.jpg" width="346" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The guys from <a href="http://thefactorynola.com/">The Factory</a> were busy on their construction art</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTAKHbCwpDkpfLhkjqif_Qjjqjrj0aFnHhcbbHrqM-LhYvg7X5x3jGQb_2bysVr_HDX3ZP3XX4aEtmfz7xiyhnVdo3GhPGHMwHHfFEKR8QZpVTHspebhAFXczMiM6ihOm0r07b-VQRG5kS/s1600/show+bar.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTAKHbCwpDkpfLhkjqif_Qjjqjrj0aFnHhcbbHrqM-LhYvg7X5x3jGQb_2bysVr_HDX3ZP3XX4aEtmfz7xiyhnVdo3GhPGHMwHHfFEKR8QZpVTHspebhAFXczMiM6ihOm0r07b-VQRG5kS/w400-h400/show+bar.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Only in New Orleans! A bar to provide you with an adult beverage while you check out the exhibits</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Williams Sonoma Home Stage - I'll be speaking here on Sunday January 29 at 1 PM</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6LuQjohlE0EfRnYIEKwpaiRogllPt61tZpHhKptihDhKAVQ_RDiftI1rFDcBmDcGFj_-6uqK8ickIDZYpIHbAbH-3NLC6wvTO1TRr3tuT3MB4iSJApGT2si4VIFW5AfOsiIrrNS6Ep4UC/s1600/show+hp.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6LuQjohlE0EfRnYIEKwpaiRogllPt61tZpHhKptihDhKAVQ_RDiftI1rFDcBmDcGFj_-6uqK8ickIDZYpIHbAbH-3NLC6wvTO1TRr3tuT3MB4iSJApGT2si4VIFW5AfOsiIrrNS6Ep4UC/w400-h400/show+hp.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Come over to booth 139 where I will be signing my book House Proud on Sunday at 1:30 </td></tr>
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<br />The Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-69913287584406708012017-01-26T14:45:00.002-06:002022-03-29T17:03:37.176-05:00NOLA Home Show 2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://www.nolahomeshow.com/">The NOLA Home Show</a> is so much fun for anyone who loves design, decorating, and renovating. Tons of exhibitors show their stuff and offer a wealth of ideas. What a great way to spend a day to get inspired for your projects or just for fun. We visual vamps love to look at anything to do with design!<br />
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I will be a <a href="http://www.nolahomeshow.com/show-features/speakers-celebrities">guest speaker </a>on Friday, January 27th at 1 PM, and then again on Sunday, January 29 at 3 PM. I'll be signing my book <a href="http://www.elledecor.com/design-decorate/g729/louisiana-style-house-proud-valorie-hart/">House Proud</a> too! So come on out and ask me anything!<br />
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Get $3. off online ticket price by entering promo code VHARTThe Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-12312148972076709662017-01-26T13:54:00.000-06:002017-01-26T13:54:19.010-06:00It's Been Awhile<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwPSVz8rhD0WiynPXrID2c4cKd9TcGazcYh2yZQ9NJBtJ1_psVrIBtZx4Dx3Npb2qpSi116O3ROt8tlRjeu0TNyeVC2N6Z2gfrqQ3BKeiGc0XfYgVvnl-L9zsishyphenhyphen9nXX_08ax3y9tbHyI/s1600/blue+val.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwPSVz8rhD0WiynPXrID2c4cKd9TcGazcYh2yZQ9NJBtJ1_psVrIBtZx4Dx3Npb2qpSi116O3ROt8tlRjeu0TNyeVC2N6Z2gfrqQ3BKeiGc0XfYgVvnl-L9zsishyphenhyphen9nXX_08ax3y9tbHyI/s320/blue+val.jpg" width="150" /></a>I dropped off the blogging scene nearly three years ago. My husband Alberto Paz passed away then. It's been quite a ride on the wave of grief. Alberto was very much responsible for me creating this blog, and he was a constant supporter and cheerleader. With him gone, I felt there was no purpose for much of anything. Many of you have written to me, from that first awful day to the present, always checking in on me, and even asking me to start blogging on The Visual Vamp again. I appreciate your kindness more than you can imagine, and I thank you for it.<br />
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What have been doing for the last three years? Healing. Moving on. I've been working on decor and design and projects and styling jobs. I've kept writing for New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles magazine. I've kept teaching tango. I've traveled a bit, renewing old acquaintances. I had a wonderful job as one of the lead designers for Susan Holland Events (SHE) doing the decor for one of the last state dinners the Obamas hosted at The White House. It was wonderful to work with Susan again, and a thrill and an honor to be in the presence of the Obamas.<br />
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Friends and family have bolstered me up. Cholo and Kitty Bang Bang are still at my side. I've been on Facebook all along if you care to look in.<br />
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Anyway I'm back. And I hope to reconnect with many of you again. xo xoThe Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-42297582759738443722015-04-03T11:37:00.001-05:002022-03-29T16:58:58.448-05:00India Hicks Island StyleWith so much of the country having a long hard winter lasting into spring, I almost feel guilty about the warm weather in New Orleans. This is the perfect time of year when soft breezes from the gulf blow across the city fragrant with spring blossoms. It feels expansive and beach like, especially in the balmy early mornings.<br />
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Sipping coffee on my patio, I pour over the book "India Hicks Island Style". India Hicks with all her royal connections and accomplishments comes off as one of us. And by us I mean those who love to decorate and entertain and take pictures and love their life (and friends and family) and share the fruits of their labor.<br />
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There are so many lovely vignettes in the book. India and husband David have a myriad of interesting collections that are lovingly displayed throughout their Caribbean home. The party decor she creates for at home gatherings is fun and creative, and I think very inspirational (steal the look!) and something we could attempt.<br />
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This book reads like a visual family album. I keep going back to it, finding so many pieces of happiness. The press release says, "India Hicks Island Style offers a wondrous blend of her design philosophy and practical advice. Witty, inspirational, and beautifully photographed, this book will enchant and transport readers...". I agree! Add it to your summer reading list, or bring it as the perfect hostess gift.<br />
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India Hicks: Island Style by India Hicks, Rizzoli New York, 2015<br />
Photography by one of my favorites, Miguel Flores Vianna (photos courtesy of Rizzoli)The Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-84994462165839925442015-03-24T12:40:00.001-05:002022-03-29T17:02:02.188-05:00Preservation Resource Center 2015 Shotgun House Tour<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PRC 2015 Shotgun House Tour - 2 days - Saturday March 28 and Sunday March 29</td></tr>
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You know Spring has arrived in New Orleans when the annual PRC Shotgun House Tour takes place. This year it's back in my neighborhood, The Irish Channel. The weather is going to be perfect and all the homes are unique and will give you plenty of great ideas about renovating and decorating. The tour benefits the Education Department at the PRC. Buy your tickets <a href="https://myprc.prcno.org/pages/Shotgun-House-Tour-2015-event-registration">HERE</a> or the day of the tour at Nadeau Funiture for the Soul on the corner of Magazine and Washington, the tour headquarters.<br />
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<a href="http://wgno.com/2015/03/22/a-sneak-peek-at-the-prcs-annual-shotgun-house-tour/">You can see a Sneak Peek of the PRC 2015 Shotgun House Tour in a nice video clip at WGNO.</a><br />
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Here is my sneak peek in photos (photos by <a href="http://www.saraessexbradley.com/">Sara Essex Bradley</a>). Please come and support the PRC, and come and see me too. My home is on the tour for the second time. The first time was several years ago, and some things remain the same, but so much has changed too.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can read more about all the houses and homeowners in <a href="http://www.prcno.org/programs/preservationinprint/piparchives/2015%20PIP/March%202015/0.html">Preservation in Print magazine</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The article starts on page 20</td></tr>
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<br />The Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-2347107547822832892015-03-18T23:16:00.000-05:002015-03-18T23:16:38.409-05:00Jacques DehornoisIt's funny what and who influences you and leaves a life long impression. It was sometime in the 1980s when I was a girl flitting about town. A lovely friend named Carl George rang me up (yes we actually <i>talked</i> on telephones then) and asked if I wanted to take a jaunt to Brooklyn Heights to visit a friend of his. I always called Carl the man with two first names. He was a highly creative type without any visible means of looking so posh.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My love for the antique settee is a direct result of seeing this one in the apartment of Jacques Dehornois - ditto for striped flat weave rugs, and columns used as interior decoration</td></tr>
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We arrived at the apartment of Jacques, a slim man with a sweet smile. He made me feel at ease. It was a large apartment decorated like nothing I had ever seen. After introductions, Carl and Jacques started looking at some drawings on a big table, and my eyes were left alone to wander a most incredible room. In fact it was the most beautiful and incredible apartment I had ever seen, and even after so many years of seeing so many incredible spaces, this one is still in a class by itself.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNYEglRa3sOgHivB84K5l1mnpbKwvQMlSP8EE-W8msw8nzBLR68XLpArRjuLFQQhuc4gOKKYTgO84PJW5YRAMVdNNTbXkfVJL4boxfGVa9hcMjnfuTRSZWFiiJmm2FhSupPos3QFmhxl15/s1600/3.-Jacques-Dehornois-House-and-Garden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNYEglRa3sOgHivB84K5l1mnpbKwvQMlSP8EE-W8msw8nzBLR68XLpArRjuLFQQhuc4gOKKYTgO84PJW5YRAMVdNNTbXkfVJL4boxfGVa9hcMjnfuTRSZWFiiJmm2FhSupPos3QFmhxl15/s1600/3.-Jacques-Dehornois-House-and-Garden.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carl George told me Jacques was a stylist and a decorator - This is a case study in great styling - I spy a Cy Twombley on the edge of the shot - genius</td></tr>
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About an hour later, Carl and I subwayed back to Manhattan. I asked about Jacques, and Carl said he was a great friend, a major talent, and a great stylist and decorator. Mind you, this was before I started styling, and something about that word caught my fancy. Like all great ones Jacques was very humble in his demeanor. You would never know he was working with Anna Wintour an up and coming editor and writer on homes and decorating, and fashion at New York Magazine. She wasn't Anna Wintour yet.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This daybed, and the striped sheets, especially the one hung on the wall made quite an impression on me - I have used fabric like this so many times like this thanks to seeing it in the apartment of Jacques Dehornois - and the gallery wall has inspired countless gallery walls of my own </td></tr>
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I never forgot the mix of antique and modern and vintage things in Jacques apartment. He was so ahead of his time as a decorator. I had never seen an architectural fragment, a column just stuck in the middle of things just for the beauty of it. So many things I saw that day are things I still love and use in my work today.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi72ngDyFtF-0ZU9buZyUTL8R2V1sGjGGqhvdc_-2V2MuUtzKzEASe1xgQD0i2xfIpd6tv1VCbY0rAttBliZP3rcy6_9w9APyCGHR6onqOttxReUCfSDDzjM3_14e5BPA7YFua1JJ87P0lJ/s1600/1.-Jacques-Dehornois-House-and-Garden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi72ngDyFtF-0ZU9buZyUTL8R2V1sGjGGqhvdc_-2V2MuUtzKzEASe1xgQD0i2xfIpd6tv1VCbY0rAttBliZP3rcy6_9w9APyCGHR6onqOttxReUCfSDDzjM3_14e5BPA7YFua1JJ87P0lJ/s1600/1.-Jacques-Dehornois-House-and-Garden.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A perfectly styled and decorated room by Jacques Dehornois - thank you for mentoring me, even if you didn't know you were doing so</td></tr>
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<br />
The man with two first names moved to Los Angeles, and works as successful arbiter of style.<br />
<a href="http://www.tributes.com/show/Jacques-Dehornois-88521435">Jacques passed away five years ago. </a><br />
Anna Wintour became a fashion icon. She said that Jacques Dehornois was the best decorator she ever met. I agree.<br />
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These photos have been around for awhile, published in House and Garden with photos by Francois Halard.<br />
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Get the look...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4R6GagKtlxTahJIEzoz9NR8GGX2iESSJMlX2lWUO6xonRf29tIEp9O_IgoUCX0BLxIhDBp_4h9GhOWcIBnoNOzb4nZi9Q36Ej3DPvHKvbBjdVH2QJmXAPfW_VyurIxRNqi17PdQZAekd1/s1600/XXX_9083_1335242582_1_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4R6GagKtlxTahJIEzoz9NR8GGX2iESSJMlX2lWUO6xonRf29tIEp9O_IgoUCX0BLxIhDBp_4h9GhOWcIBnoNOzb4nZi9Q36Ej3DPvHKvbBjdVH2QJmXAPfW_VyurIxRNqi17PdQZAekd1/s1600/XXX_9083_1335242582_1_copy.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.1stdibs.com/furniture/seating/settees/gilded-french-settee-italian-blue-dyed-pony-skin/id-f_642186/?utm_medium=pla&utm_source=google&utm_term=settees&utm_content=easy-ship&product=f642186&gclid=CjwKEAjwxKSoBRCZ5oyy87DimEcSJADiWsvgS7iScHP0FE_09roEEJ0E5FEEWwIHop8ob3iGRDWwsBoC5q7w_wcB">Blue settee</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_qy3gWMewm6wnjsopW2rfPGN_gtTTV1Y6h_XWriV3xyIbhKS7Sr5erG42eJSRTdm11bszOXgNYjWModD0pCEaka2XjW_DuKOtb-KtUnusbT14nsMqO7yzaxoJ3DOTLanxSgnnGnnMsQrH/s1600/draper+sheets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_qy3gWMewm6wnjsopW2rfPGN_gtTTV1Y6h_XWriV3xyIbhKS7Sr5erG42eJSRTdm11bszOXgNYjWModD0pCEaka2XjW_DuKOtb-KtUnusbT14nsMqO7yzaxoJ3DOTLanxSgnnGnnMsQrH/s1600/draper+sheets.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dwellstudio.com/DwellStudio-Draper-Stripe-Sheet-Set-DWL6678.html?refid=FR417-DWL6678&gclid=CjwKEAjwxKSoBRCZ5oyy87DimEcSJADiWsvglFhy-NvsKXepae9eh6F4bZfa_D3EVEhl5pc_a-W-fxoCGVzw_wcB">Draper Sheets</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhl6sw_REfBRUR4yEHVkbUcpuKjnlFkuubPQyzJq6FVtLko5j4BEU4U4yC4fVlyIdjYEk86vGhZRxorLfcXrLNN03vChsgfHPPFot6igLw2kOLuOFmf6BXcoQ9iWVJ0yeUUd74vHWWvB3D/s1600/Dash-and-Albert-Rugs-Indoor-Outdoor-Trimaran-Blue-White-Striped-Outdoor-Area-Rug-RDB188-XX.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhl6sw_REfBRUR4yEHVkbUcpuKjnlFkuubPQyzJq6FVtLko5j4BEU4U4yC4fVlyIdjYEk86vGhZRxorLfcXrLNN03vChsgfHPPFot6igLw2kOLuOFmf6BXcoQ9iWVJ0yeUUd74vHWWvB3D/s1600/Dash-and-Albert-Rugs-Indoor-Outdoor-Trimaran-Blue-White-Striped-Outdoor-Area-Rug-RDB188-XX.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wayfair.com/Dash-and-Albert-Rugs-Indoor-Outdoor-Catamaran-Blue-White-Striped-Outdoor-Area-Rug-RDB196-XX-DAX2527.html?PiID%5B%5D=7277423">Striped rug</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv-eac45EH7KXt2YZo3SGLcGiZDF0OpiJkbF8gxznokau0Gk29AYkhCRMlV_bjOhA0sYa28wt-gwU9g7LkGXhzRW7QDiWYq27EF0yglqB6DRC4UlbS12SnXju_PMbCp_96Uz0SRHs8xqZ8/s1600/cy-twombly-petals-of-fire_i-G-71-7199-5BPU100Z-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv-eac45EH7KXt2YZo3SGLcGiZDF0OpiJkbF8gxznokau0Gk29AYkhCRMlV_bjOhA0sYa28wt-gwU9g7LkGXhzRW7QDiWYq27EF0yglqB6DRC4UlbS12SnXju_PMbCp_96Uz0SRHs8xqZ8/s1600/cy-twombly-petals-of-fire_i-G-71-7199-5BPU100Z-1.jpg" height="640" width="578" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://webshop.modernamuseet.se/sv/affischer/kronblad-av-eld">Cy Twombley print</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc07l-N-QSJ1CDcJG9QvIitWUK9BdOssSNgPZ7R14ijFrrPCW4wYF-f578q-jmbnyfcqqwOWOegyQWUuCKmFddDE_9SYkSuEswTcpwZ53PwWXfvekm83x4sYjMo9H8cNzlxCeGyxy5G1az/s1600/birdhouse.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc07l-N-QSJ1CDcJG9QvIitWUK9BdOssSNgPZ7R14ijFrrPCW4wYF-f578q-jmbnyfcqqwOWOegyQWUuCKmFddDE_9SYkSuEswTcpwZ53PwWXfvekm83x4sYjMo9H8cNzlxCeGyxy5G1az/s1600/birdhouse.png" height="396" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn.opentip.com/Home-Kitchen/Bonsai-Boy-Bh-Architectural-Birdhouse-p-4579251.html?gclid=CjwKEAjwxKSoBRCZ5oyy87DimEcSJADiWsvg9El8THxWe2U53fqMLcOPHmLrd442zWARfVw1lYbTARoCQffw_wcB">Architectural birdouse</a> - maybe paint it black</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwsiXa_0CO_kCB2KUf0IldfCSakIoO40rs9YFJkq97Ut2UZb7jZNQ_aEbVF2sXLOwes9oS_9LJmhPuLpmtPiaEI69SUIhH0NPADdXp_AXyqWf5uxFxZoEri6T6pyE7or046XuxNU8DYICF/s1600/$_57.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwsiXa_0CO_kCB2KUf0IldfCSakIoO40rs9YFJkq97Ut2UZb7jZNQ_aEbVF2sXLOwes9oS_9LJmhPuLpmtPiaEI69SUIhH0NPADdXp_AXyqWf5uxFxZoEri6T6pyE7or046XuxNU8DYICF/s1600/$_57.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Antique-Victorian-Fluted-1-2-Columns-Circa-1885-Fir-Architectural-Salvage-/151608360044?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item234c8ffc6c">Antique column </a>- and check your local salvage stores</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWPJptHMR7MdqVKpn_ei1Lt4aY8AYabSIV4eJCM0R73FAjwjAg3gZRNW3DSqCuUOP0zOn77PkxjkJSpkOHbUE1jHCr76xh_zreQbUjVXSK-k_hc_YPgJJEfmXc7_60UM0UVZyEOW1Va_3f/s1600/vmf_vendor_XLI_1383057_1367820289056_838090.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWPJptHMR7MdqVKpn_ei1Lt4aY8AYabSIV4eJCM0R73FAjwjAg3gZRNW3DSqCuUOP0zOn77PkxjkJSpkOHbUE1jHCr76xh_zreQbUjVXSK-k_hc_YPgJJEfmXc7_60UM0UVZyEOW1Va_3f/s1600/vmf_vendor_XLI_1383057_1367820289056_838090.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.onekingslane.com/vintage-market-finds/product/1383057?or=1&carousel=category3_Chaise%20Longues%20AND%20Daybeds&utm_medium=feed&utm_source=google_shopping&utm_term=vmf&product_partition_id=115844205915&device=c&keyword=&utm_campaign=Vintage_VMF&utm_content=PLA|Vintage|mkwid|5VMPn8Kp_dc|pcrid|51234116955&gclid=CjwKEAjwxKSoBRCZ5oyy87DimEcSJADiWsvgRuRbjHPkcyWNxYNLG1vo3yGPwXxaWsCNJp6skss-0RoCIwfw_wcB">Vintage daybed</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6_ml0AyiqV4Vs84dE1gAFzOOPdZXaEkdi_86vdFJzBXYBQRsAg9pnNE4-ANF9l5CVNfixlrpLM4LX0dRw08YVAgQEEnHlFfxqqWCBh0f1AevhoQAUOeFi8skq091pBc2LFuuVo1J487JO/s1600/42fd4a00-cb1e-4c76-93ab-a67b8e517a8d_400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6_ml0AyiqV4Vs84dE1gAFzOOPdZXaEkdi_86vdFJzBXYBQRsAg9pnNE4-ANF9l5CVNfixlrpLM4LX0dRw08YVAgQEEnHlFfxqqWCBh0f1AevhoQAUOeFi8skq091pBc2LFuuVo1J487JO/s1600/42fd4a00-cb1e-4c76-93ab-a67b8e517a8d_400.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.onekingslane.com/vintage-market-finds/product/1383057?or=1&carousel=category3_Chaise%20Longues%20AND%20Daybeds&utm_medium=feed&utm_source=google_shopping&utm_term=vmf&product_partition_id=115844205915&device=c&keyword=&utm_campaign=Vintage_VMF&utm_content=PLA|Vintage|mkwid|5VMPn8Kp_dc|pcrid|51234116955&gclid=CjwKEAjwxKSoBRCZ5oyy87DimEcSJADiWsvgRuRbjHPkcyWNxYNLG1vo3yGPwXxaWsCNJp6skss-0RoCIwfw_wcB">Round table</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguNTRGJinNjdBkrzAXuoRpelxqbBWN2_Fzu6Isr8iAs10IhvbsmL01qzuHp8vicBu1DBz8qDTLMuiZpkTAPyk7b7KOF7cXLWtrZx_QkxZsFV25m3jVF2E6vdqMUcbBuQZnSrxrCjt2mSML/s1600/$_57-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguNTRGJinNjdBkrzAXuoRpelxqbBWN2_Fzu6Isr8iAs10IhvbsmL01qzuHp8vicBu1DBz8qDTLMuiZpkTAPyk7b7KOF7cXLWtrZx_QkxZsFV25m3jVF2E6vdqMUcbBuQZnSrxrCjt2mSML/s1600/$_57-1.JPG" height="640" width="518" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Dated-1947-American-Oil-Painting-Nude-Study-Signed-/291410680390?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item43d96e1a46">Vintage nude painting(s)</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuLJVkO8twnpVJ99VFrLAOzbEbPva9e5BziovfP7SLFtxF4lrTZnkMnBocr46K0rOYkpwlnGQ20AsRbZfiafaPnDmUGtLoxbRLuuBfr0WvU7_s76TyrGK7_lga8O9s1dPOl04lOh60OStZ/s1600/PAAAIAECIDNMLLAI.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuLJVkO8twnpVJ99VFrLAOzbEbPva9e5BziovfP7SLFtxF4lrTZnkMnBocr46K0rOYkpwlnGQ20AsRbZfiafaPnDmUGtLoxbRLuuBfr0WvU7_s76TyrGK7_lga8O9s1dPOl04lOh60OStZ/s1600/PAAAIAECIDNMLLAI.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.lumens.com/tizio-35-task-lamp-by-artemide-R008763.html?utm_medium=PLA&utm_source=google&utm_term=&kwid=productads-plaid^23062739185-sku^R008763-adType^PLA-device^c-adid^42350083071">Desk lamp</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQcPYBE0M7KNHqbzCMkaUS0e5LHdRmF2943dRiMGQOUGfj11-QJ5QYS5UFtubLOS4HUST-ZgP3a4YDwS2eSswNVcksXGjfXo7F_29JyrQ4hVLsvHo6fIi8F0GQnwm-PtavPQOU9Q5N9QsX/s1600/01929-2_153411fc-8558-4eda-88d4-215d357e3d16_1024x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQcPYBE0M7KNHqbzCMkaUS0e5LHdRmF2943dRiMGQOUGfj11-QJ5QYS5UFtubLOS4HUST-ZgP3a4YDwS2eSswNVcksXGjfXo7F_29JyrQ4hVLsvHo6fIi8F0GQnwm-PtavPQOU9Q5N9QsX/s1600/01929-2_153411fc-8558-4eda-88d4-215d357e3d16_1024x1024.jpg" height="400" width="333" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.atgstores.com/desk-decor/cyan-design-01929-desk-decor-red_6663587.html?af=2615&cse=2615&gclid=CjwKEAjwxKSoBRCZ5oyy87DimEcSJADiWsvgNEJBGKZyygwkMAfzWLrjrYqf9sWEYcYCrshExU9BZxoC0Ifw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">Red coral</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjOTC8nBaxbCo1-KjOAAh3hyhR0P6Qh1gDcTB2lbgTIVEmtR6_eSoG0efdOfDxgo30ePZCQ6naXqZ7Zez0bp8pMJjhOJ3XPUDcI3kcdtZBrEIGfca0r4IksnHPFChSnnocAQmOlhhijy5A/s1600/Product_URF10838_Image_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjOTC8nBaxbCo1-KjOAAh3hyhR0P6Qh1gDcTB2lbgTIVEmtR6_eSoG0efdOfDxgo30ePZCQ6naXqZ7Zez0bp8pMJjhOJ3XPUDcI3kcdtZBrEIGfca0r4IksnHPFChSnnocAQmOlhhijy5A/s1600/Product_URF10838_Image_1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jacques stacked books on two white antique chairs, but if you can't find something as fabulous I would use a pair of these <a href="https://www.onekingslane.com/product/52562/2270607">vintage acrylic chairs</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht1oN_tflY3XLUt0NTVnt1Z43O6wuVsSgP_pBhhhCiYufauM5p7tKiVgY0dbF-ldCBoNxwVhhClqYiikgNglyT0lPSp994MQBSEcdPUFKDGrIFPuX5vT7AP56M4q-Wul3oAwPlQkHm-MgF/s1600/International-Caravan-Windsor-Console-Table.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht1oN_tflY3XLUt0NTVnt1Z43O6wuVsSgP_pBhhhCiYufauM5p7tKiVgY0dbF-ldCBoNxwVhhClqYiikgNglyT0lPSp994MQBSEcdPUFKDGrIFPuX5vT7AP56M4q-Wul3oAwPlQkHm-MgF/s1600/International-Caravan-Windsor-Console-Table.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wayfair.com/International-Caravan-Windsor-Console-Table-INC2047.html?PiID%5B%5D=12900180">Carved wood console table</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt5G4_9GOzt1MNbeXPNzFLJRpsuLNWT_Gjp2L86LHy-LmJVTCfmDzH4sTmzea7KGyGdosFegBe4EVEuU4w5W1gUXxyw4hFfq32rYaJjyYfDC8IyWnoZAgxqopnMkTxO-1gGk_RckHbsA2l/s1600/thumb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt5G4_9GOzt1MNbeXPNzFLJRpsuLNWT_Gjp2L86LHy-LmJVTCfmDzH4sTmzea7KGyGdosFegBe4EVEuU4w5W1gUXxyw4hFfq32rYaJjyYfDC8IyWnoZAgxqopnMkTxO-1gGk_RckHbsA2l/s1600/thumb.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.laylagrayce.com/Products/Modern-History-Home-Carved-and-Painted-Swedish-Console-Table__MH464F01.aspx?gclid=CjwKEAjwxKSoBRCZ5oyy87DimEcSJADiWsvgfGmiPGLrQ2QeZvDZxyxISJbJLZZQBKPnqvK54iIFKhoCTAjw_wcB">Carved wood console table</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja7qVyp5bGNbZS2CdatqLZ2pNuhs0iFLHvggCOkmSdoaIPW0vZUSz6_n4iOAwq3MPhX_IEUxI-_I_tcittGgfcb-3GfcgGvIFWknPpTd3zJEla_u4wKQgr_HnbQOgTJAkTm1q-V0uEyEdt/s1600/nickel-candelabra-225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja7qVyp5bGNbZS2CdatqLZ2pNuhs0iFLHvggCOkmSdoaIPW0vZUSz6_n4iOAwq3MPhX_IEUxI-_I_tcittGgfcb-3GfcgGvIFWknPpTd3zJEla_u4wKQgr_HnbQOgTJAkTm1q-V0uEyEdt/s1600/nickel-candelabra-225.jpg" height="640" width="330" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.batteryoperatedcandles.net/21101-p-centerpiece-supplies.html?gdftrk=gdfV2875_a_7c73_a_7c5001_a_7c21101&gclid=CjwKEAjwxKSoBRCZ5oyy87DimEcSJADiWsvgqEmwL5Cxduw-skm77T_Ac6nC98ulYN79rrmUi7mPZhoC_u3w_wcB">Candelabra</a></td></tr>
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<br />The Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-32463895120081184672015-01-28T11:25:00.000-06:002015-01-28T11:25:56.179-06:00Bathroom And Kitchen ProjectJust wanted to share a bathroom and kitchen project I did. It was featured in the Winter 2015 issue of <a href="http://www.myneworleans.com/New-Orleans-Homes-Lifestyles/Winter-2014/Best-Spots-in-the-House/">New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles</a> (photography by Jeff Johnson). The bathroom involved combining two smaller bathrooms that shared a wall, and access to a smallish walk in closet. Two bedrooms that had access to the two bathrooms were swapped. The bedroom that was the master was too small, so it was turned into a dressing room, and the secondary larger bedroom was turned into the master. The existing smallish walk-in closet was turned into a connecting hallway. It was a complete demo and rebuild.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmAt6oXuI-ADsyTzBsl1io-LjscRbY4rJ9np1TS9GkCHYbn-PHkyWJAEo_Qq-QFlk91kOiEndn7hS8-8wlBRGOJH3M_gAEd1mgd11XBf_mNMj9YYCXzOdq9QFPX1UxXm0HnoEjYd-EhOlB/s1600/_MG_6539.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmAt6oXuI-ADsyTzBsl1io-LjscRbY4rJ9np1TS9GkCHYbn-PHkyWJAEo_Qq-QFlk91kOiEndn7hS8-8wlBRGOJH3M_gAEd1mgd11XBf_mNMj9YYCXzOdq9QFPX1UxXm0HnoEjYd-EhOlB/s1600/_MG_6539.jpg" height="465" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A new large walk-in shower with his and hers sides was added, along with a jetted freestanding tub. Kathy Kuo agate sconces over the tub are so luxe. Hans Grohe fixtures were uses including the tub filler that looks like a little table - the water flows out in a sheet into the tub. Bathroom by Valorie Hart Designs.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2DQ8lyCyFpLqULXM3qCEYIkitA5AvSCrSk02-nMGhmjPngKMCaA0WEak8pDpxhmCxV-rM407yURmA4oSo25rbvL3OYc61J80xp1HxGrLtG5Nt8jykG-20Spa1eaWMuQn9isLsgyoZSX3t/s1600/_MG_6529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2DQ8lyCyFpLqULXM3qCEYIkitA5AvSCrSk02-nMGhmjPngKMCaA0WEak8pDpxhmCxV-rM407yURmA4oSo25rbvL3OYc61J80xp1HxGrLtG5Nt8jykG-20Spa1eaWMuQn9isLsgyoZSX3t/s1600/_MG_6529.jpg" height="465" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three tile choices were used - the porcelain wall tile in the shower was cost effective and mimics marble beautifully. The splurge was the metallic floor tile. A barn door was used instead of pocket doors. It leads to the connecting hallway that was once the walk-in closet. There was enough marble left over from vanity counter tops to add a shower seat, and a top to the pony wall separating the toilet from the tub and shower area. Bathroom by Valorie Hart Designs.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMlCsP6M-EWlkkqtc8yEJLjaIKal3RXlKeiyvCYMy7i8tZPzbcbKOsGXNzVHkU0_t8hyphenhyphenGKeUio5G8iP2WZAJeREogIqkbbZwDhkrEi26HiOkLqkJoIb2QLHCy0H_wVaXeRMKsP33L5FRc8/s1600/_MG_6500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMlCsP6M-EWlkkqtc8yEJLjaIKal3RXlKeiyvCYMy7i8tZPzbcbKOsGXNzVHkU0_t8hyphenhyphenGKeUio5G8iP2WZAJeREogIqkbbZwDhkrEi26HiOkLqkJoIb2QLHCy0H_wVaXeRMKsP33L5FRc8/s1600/_MG_6500.jpg" height="464" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The third tile choice is the glass tile installed all the way up to the ceiling over each of the two vanities. I chose to separate the his and hers vanities. The vanities were custom built, and have a gray lacquer finish. The counter tops are marble. The fixtures are Restoration Hardware, and the sinks are Nameeks. The wall with the mirror (from IKEA) once had a door to the secondary bedroom, that I had it closed in. The glass discs are from Mitchell Gold-Bob Williams.The wall color is Benjamin Moore Coastal Fog. Bathroom by Valorie Hart Designs.</td></tr>
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The open kitchen features builders grade finishes that I updated. Both of these projects were done over a year ago, and were challenging. I learned a lot by doing them, and have since completed several kitchen and bath projects fearlessly. Reach out to me if you need help with your kitchen or bath, or any part of your home.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7eMUUlZkVIAEXvV5uDnlbpfaIVEcM3boIRyV7n1_ieIYhFZ19_29zOj0V0k9kvpJw0mxZmEGVLDbSBpjGvgN3mg_rhVhqnOP72fYtBP3LDYhjhIJAdne5rQh968Xoq87MDqEDTufMC_kr/s1600/_MG_6477.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7eMUUlZkVIAEXvV5uDnlbpfaIVEcM3boIRyV7n1_ieIYhFZ19_29zOj0V0k9kvpJw0mxZmEGVLDbSBpjGvgN3mg_rhVhqnOP72fYtBP3LDYhjhIJAdne5rQh968Xoq87MDqEDTufMC_kr/s1600/_MG_6477.jpg" height="640" width="465" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Custom Roman shade is Robert Allen for Dwell Studio fabric. Kitchen decor by Valorie Hart Designs.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMfiA0j8fE-3t0NK4K7sFPyQ2hccK5gg2LRZKxF68q5Wssw5IPRXbo2Ymr3ma8c_L_HFyIFtuRHWsUh_Lo1cDl1QSJ0oiDdB9GN9ErY_TgGtpsbENNxPlfsBfiO3EnAMiUuWu5_xZEEeke/s1600/_MG_6454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMfiA0j8fE-3t0NK4K7sFPyQ2hccK5gg2LRZKxF68q5Wssw5IPRXbo2Ymr3ma8c_L_HFyIFtuRHWsUh_Lo1cDl1QSJ0oiDdB9GN9ErY_TgGtpsbENNxPlfsBfiO3EnAMiUuWu5_xZEEeke/s1600/_MG_6454.jpg" height="464" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A new back splash of metal penny tiles was added. Kitchen decor by Valorie Hart Designs.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggym5oibFMi4QDjfmOkt-J0QXyIXLPLzrlrhkotNvk7dDZRazfb0t2AO8nNZOHGVMTG_ft3ZmY4ln2DwENM4fMv4AX6xIiI6BQqYs5ZZ58uBnOJZGlxhJkwLtsvK5yiPSqP6ylcnF3h2EQ/s1600/_MG_6438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggym5oibFMi4QDjfmOkt-J0QXyIXLPLzrlrhkotNvk7dDZRazfb0t2AO8nNZOHGVMTG_ft3ZmY4ln2DwENM4fMv4AX6xIiI6BQqYs5ZZ58uBnOJZGlxhJkwLtsvK5yiPSqP6ylcnF3h2EQ/s1600/_MG_6438.jpg" height="640" width="464" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kitchen decor by Valorie Hart Designs.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggAE0NZF_2wB4nwO2CBfFT-YoZeM3O_da64R_MIvinebWD4xdmgqxQ80YKktuLlnjdxq2o32PvTC775-pOkUPPPZr8Z5AYOO1rB0GoW6PaJhTZBE8iYs0u_HKdkDKsdXF2GUkmUDHlg498/s1600/_MG_6407.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggAE0NZF_2wB4nwO2CBfFT-YoZeM3O_da64R_MIvinebWD4xdmgqxQ80YKktuLlnjdxq2o32PvTC775-pOkUPPPZr8Z5AYOO1rB0GoW6PaJhTZBE8iYs0u_HKdkDKsdXF2GUkmUDHlg498/s1600/_MG_6407.jpg" height="464" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kitchen decor by Valorie Hart Designs.</td></tr>
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<br />The Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-5766375408581300712015-01-11T14:44:00.000-06:002015-01-11T14:51:07.199-06:00For RentIt's coming up to a year since my beloved Alberto passed away. What a year! About six months ago I started to create a separate space in my house for my sister to move into. This won't happen for awhile, so I listed it on Airbnb. Now's your chance to stay in Casa Visual Vamp. <br />
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<a href="https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/5026237">Go to the Airbnb link https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/5026237</a><br />
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The space is filled with art, and books, and my furnishings, and all the decorator touches you will love. It is completely furnished, and of course you can say hello to me.The Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-14907867258006977172014-12-04T14:00:00.000-06:002014-12-05T17:57:30.138-06:00My Widows Walk BedroomIt has been ten months since my beloved Alberto died. Many of you have been kind enough to indulge me pouring my heart out and sharing my grief with you. You might have read in older posts that I have been working on dividing my house in two, so I can rent one part of it out until my sister moves in with me in a couple of years. Photography by Sara Essex Bradley.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVyG4SOU_DRZqeQ8g5kX0i6Fgjp2c1TXq2YOoV8_VfKJ-w4tjOmohg5MjZ6YoofAYXgFK_HZVwGuoknl2nANo9CWMabbJCCXeNVm_Cx10AEsVgD73ejWhLqSkgruJeKeK2CZFFvmE3UdwC/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+3+valorie+hart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVyG4SOU_DRZqeQ8g5kX0i6Fgjp2c1TXq2YOoV8_VfKJ-w4tjOmohg5MjZ6YoofAYXgFK_HZVwGuoknl2nANo9CWMabbJCCXeNVm_Cx10AEsVgD73ejWhLqSkgruJeKeK2CZFFvmE3UdwC/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+3+valorie+hart.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Valorie Hart Designs a master bedroom for a widow</td></tr>
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It's good to have a project, though I have been sluggish making the changes. Every day spent packing away things and organizing a home made for two into a home now made for one is a volcano of emotions. It slows one down.<br />
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One of the major changes I have been working on include turning Alberto's office that was up on the second floor in a part of the house called a camel back, into my bedroom, dressing room, and sitting room. I added a bathroom up there, something I should have done long ago for Alberto. There are twenty-one steps up to the camel back, and he walked up and down them many times a day to use the downstairs bathrooms. Here is the link to see the "Before" - <a href="http://thevisualvamp.blogspot.com/2014/11/the-office-of-milonguero.html">"The Office Of A Milonguero".</a><br />
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The upstairs is done. I have been sleeping up there for a couple of months. I forced myself not to return to our old bedroom once I moved upstairs. In fact that room has been reconfigured as part of the rental.<br />
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The upstairs consists of two rooms joined together by an archway. It has an industrial loft like feeling, with an exposed brick chimney running through the center of the two rooms. There are four windows, two on each side, one set is on the east and the other set is on the west. From my bed, I can watch the moon rise on one side, and watch it go down on the other side. I see sky and tree tops. I have a birds eye few of my back patio and of the neighborhood. I call it my widows walk, a solitary aerie imagined as a garret high above the Parisian rooftops.<br />
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Surprise, surprise, I painted it white! White has always been in my arsenal and wheelhouse. I pulled out all the old Frenchy things I had stashed around here and there. I re-purposed furniture from Alberto's office and from around the house. I got something new that has been on my decor bucket list, the <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/home-wallpaper/23766900.jsp#/">Etched Arcadia mural from Anthropologie.</a> I got two murals, one for behind the bed, and one for behind the TV.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Etched Arcadia mural from Anthropologie</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhESxksCDYfiKl7VEHPN0CuPBqAeScFwRkoTpTbSLxLG1LGpvyT3-EGD2peJmIP2_XlyE6OejYr5hDpyZ4T455YogLPNwg8YhVb6BdlC4eSjNWTUK78ci890B5TJNw_tR8RAavxod2F-RZv/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+8+valorie+hart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhESxksCDYfiKl7VEHPN0CuPBqAeScFwRkoTpTbSLxLG1LGpvyT3-EGD2peJmIP2_XlyE6OejYr5hDpyZ4T455YogLPNwg8YhVb6BdlC4eSjNWTUK78ci890B5TJNw_tR8RAavxod2F-RZv/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+8+valorie+hart.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bed is Alberto's old futon style couch he napped on - I added a nice memory foam mattress and an upholstered headboard - the smaller double bed size is a perfect for me (and Cholo and Kitty Kitty Bang Bang)</td></tr>
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I chose the mural because of the black and white and tree motif. I see tree tops outside my windows, and I love the playfulness of the idea of being up in a tree house. It also looks like a modern version of the antique grisaille wallpaper that I loved in <a href="https://thevisualvamp.blogspot.com/b/post-preview?token=26ZzGEoBAAA.m_L-0ZD_nMD6T0K-X_nDrg.GlvIi92C7okFRa2UvhCTXg&postId=1490786725800697717&type=POST#!/2013/10/i-heart-howard-slatkin.html">Howard Slatkin's New York apartment</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3dbliDhGbwIg6pGBGNyLAqO8I2CfI4f7DEWpzQuro9d1TUQ6pZLNREPutK_UDGJwB5Nzo2l86a_Qjfhtljnw5vSW-znSCu7qyJrPaCFJRX-qAYVttUqXtlDhyphenhyphendnd5a0W0asobA3Fj6N-P/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+1+valorie+hart.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3dbliDhGbwIg6pGBGNyLAqO8I2CfI4f7DEWpzQuro9d1TUQ6pZLNREPutK_UDGJwB5Nzo2l86a_Qjfhtljnw5vSW-znSCu7qyJrPaCFJRX-qAYVttUqXtlDhyphenhyphendnd5a0W0asobA3Fj6N-P/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+1+valorie+hart.jpg" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXsp93M-sswMwAvKbTNJzdo73q_Jxmz8b8OpvrCGYDe-mjJ_jvW3rUfsvyigOg2WBkBrnKPyatHFiHwgTNgvWZlkbWn3ENFScVKZwAylhfluWsMBtb_Uytd2SGKnhnbhgSZsckmYiMF_59/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+12+valorie+hart.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White drapes with black Greek key trim hung on return to the wall rods</td></tr>
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I changed the doors from paneled ones to flat ones so I could have mural extend onto them. The mural is a stock size, and a was a little short for my walls. So I did a faux baseboard by adding a piece of trim at the bottom of the mural where the white wall is exposed, and adding trim and molding to the door. Black hinges and a black door knobs were also added. Removing the casing around the doors was too involved. I had to pick my battles.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ_VT0lC3xWajjoevAzc0hrTQANtwbWjoJgjXwiGOZYhpp3WFcMD5yMDCmqbDI3pd5e_zp7k-AO4mSbpBcdVSlWy-BOnASsRKn95oEgII2vIVqASVlfxA2Tvoq1R8PKyCdZcxsXo1Jbbq4/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+10+valorie+hart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ_VT0lC3xWajjoevAzc0hrTQANtwbWjoJgjXwiGOZYhpp3WFcMD5yMDCmqbDI3pd5e_zp7k-AO4mSbpBcdVSlWy-BOnASsRKn95oEgII2vIVqASVlfxA2Tvoq1R8PKyCdZcxsXo1Jbbq4/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+10+valorie+hart.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The TV was Alberto's and it is in the same place when it was his office - The chest and mirror came from our dressing room and bedroom - The antique Adirondack side table has been stored away for years - The rug is from our former dressing room</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1BhIpISFZYQyK19gwzqmYZ-2h44iWQUrLRG95rN6BG5c-hY97X7e7F6_T_g7sSWCIev8aHy4VM43vDWbJJrBoAR90ruBzkTjT1Sw-FBkavO-DutoZ3DVswvN6c0UuM-bgR6n1zN6HR7_i/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+19+valorie+hart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1BhIpISFZYQyK19gwzqmYZ-2h44iWQUrLRG95rN6BG5c-hY97X7e7F6_T_g7sSWCIev8aHy4VM43vDWbJJrBoAR90ruBzkTjT1Sw-FBkavO-DutoZ3DVswvN6c0UuM-bgR6n1zN6HR7_i/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+19+valorie+hart.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I kept Alberto's computer and a table he made, but I skirted in a drop cloth painted with wide black stripes, which I also used as a coverlet on the bed - the candle sconce above the computer was once in my breakfast area</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQIEf9NqaNZEJcS2M72QieyZ0_fsBD8RmaGCBCaBl8AHFLWthvBZq8taV3Z1_Soq69oMzNkIFfDF_APGW3Xywj-Ee8uEaIA2r04YgRfy-DTkbvwzfZYfy1NO6xBpjBryvGhKZU0E5yUsUj/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+11+valorie+hart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQIEf9NqaNZEJcS2M72QieyZ0_fsBD8RmaGCBCaBl8AHFLWthvBZq8taV3Z1_Soq69oMzNkIFfDF_APGW3Xywj-Ee8uEaIA2r04YgRfy-DTkbvwzfZYfy1NO6xBpjBryvGhKZU0E5yUsUj/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+11+valorie+hart.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a note I left him - we often left each other little love notes - I would be downstairs and hear him laughing at something on TV or that he saw online, and also hear him singing tangos or playing the clarinet</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzltwnsb6bFYHfatt5OjG3mKL4ZbvuTVO1k33Lx5N2dO7JOcLanH0mVJdUA_-XvDh9hcIrLTFCNajcAguU1TFWLRIxdQzTmZIuyXgpkcHhsLPXAsrEh0H6QbaSOKSvQ_eAiNVWXgFb4Xjw/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+6+valorie+hart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzltwnsb6bFYHfatt5OjG3mKL4ZbvuTVO1k33Lx5N2dO7JOcLanH0mVJdUA_-XvDh9hcIrLTFCNajcAguU1TFWLRIxdQzTmZIuyXgpkcHhsLPXAsrEh0H6QbaSOKSvQ_eAiNVWXgFb4Xjw/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+6+valorie+hart.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This nook has a book shelf Alberto built - I organized all our photo albums or our years of teaching tango abroad. along with his important tango books here - The pair of white DIY faux marble lamps were once in our bedroom years ago</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0BBvKX9hciHas2vPnsVFCjvRGpF0Kg5Ys66lDOvjec3hrfUH4hA7y6UDVw9BH5TmV_TJEPAam7a4owX1b_lDryOwApmYvjm-LAkGX7R495EefpzQSwjeaTa94kWXnMW-s3OiBfC3eZogi/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+13+valorie+hart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0BBvKX9hciHas2vPnsVFCjvRGpF0Kg5Ys66lDOvjec3hrfUH4hA7y6UDVw9BH5TmV_TJEPAam7a4owX1b_lDryOwApmYvjm-LAkGX7R495EefpzQSwjeaTa94kWXnMW-s3OiBfC3eZogi/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+13+valorie+hart.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My old vanity and lamps have been kicking around for years - The pendant hanging on the lamp holds a lock of Alberto's hair</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYDv73Xa6uILxGa52srLipkOoGSAeO-2Q84HrDHrJUlgO8eV7exIL1lUNObiBc1xOQkYcmeoiYt8pIdeDrS-6UUGZGmTU0Um8t-wuakc36Ov-a_e8TazgloT8kHCcXaoyMzKQKFc_xLDi0/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+14+valorie+hart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYDv73Xa6uILxGa52srLipkOoGSAeO-2Q84HrDHrJUlgO8eV7exIL1lUNObiBc1xOQkYcmeoiYt8pIdeDrS-6UUGZGmTU0Um8t-wuakc36Ov-a_e8TazgloT8kHCcXaoyMzKQKFc_xLDi0/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+14+valorie+hart.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another nook with shelves Alberto built for CDs and Videotapes</td></tr>
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I tore out the ten year old wall-to-wall carpet and replaced it with gray faux wood (that would be affordable laminate lol). The house tilts as all old houses are wont to do, so a floating floor suits the shifting and tilting. I put in new ceiling fans (a necessity on the second floor). My closet is open with no doors or partitions.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_KNowtdXvkaHtfmojgWVcS4J_3rcfcvoArFYQ8BdMHs7snClc3gf44uDdJauRSnG2cXcgC2CU6LZC5aE4_B6ppRL8liaq5qJmvZpF8Kdz7mP5F8mTsl-QofsnnzxdLL_MZQn8A-Ow5h7y/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+2+valorie+hart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_KNowtdXvkaHtfmojgWVcS4J_3rcfcvoArFYQ8BdMHs7snClc3gf44uDdJauRSnG2cXcgC2CU6LZC5aE4_B6ppRL8liaq5qJmvZpF8Kdz7mP5F8mTsl-QofsnnzxdLL_MZQn8A-Ow5h7y/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+2+valorie+hart.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My open closet is much smaller than the whole room Alberto and I had for our dressing room</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQnUFxosdO6KmwUx-E0eAPuezQFBSlGlgx-oPPN8naDjCwXlFE8Gnngp2wBtRqoMpcz_SVx17cRWwU4qegdlgj5eqnqc-VLIv0aRji7N0ows-NGknBbMVfLIzmhUQeXXYv4ZCbnNBkxfm2/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+16+valorie+hart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQnUFxosdO6KmwUx-E0eAPuezQFBSlGlgx-oPPN8naDjCwXlFE8Gnngp2wBtRqoMpcz_SVx17cRWwU4qegdlgj5eqnqc-VLIv0aRji7N0ows-NGknBbMVfLIzmhUQeXXYv4ZCbnNBkxfm2/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+16+valorie+hart.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shoe storage is in a nook that once housed Alberto's tango video tapes now boxed and stored in the cabinets above - The little bench was once orange velvet and I had it reupholstered in faux white leather</td></tr>
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I carved a full bath (albeit made for a petite person) out of a second unused stairway and stairwell - I used basic tile and brass fixtures - It may be a small bathroom but it is perfect for an ex-New Yorker who is used to small bathrooms.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicHNb8QhzetRmcR6_DwzuChNebLXBAGl6p0s_TK3QKwriKUxHta0ASgZbe9S7Ax96njXsRNhRqgg7Lq0f3op1J9SDZarcuJZPCCV0EllnSyWiHvNd9JtwgJAfCIjI3WnTtN65wvqlNlqVb/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+5+valorie+hart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicHNb8QhzetRmcR6_DwzuChNebLXBAGl6p0s_TK3QKwriKUxHta0ASgZbe9S7Ax96njXsRNhRqgg7Lq0f3op1J9SDZarcuJZPCCV0EllnSyWiHvNd9JtwgJAfCIjI3WnTtN65wvqlNlqVb/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+5+valorie+hart.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This bathroom was once a stairwell - I used stock tile and brass fixtures - My skeleton anatomy chart makes a perfect window shade</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1hSYHs8KPE1pGxkOU6xlRZDvpfgVAQ2VLg5B3f88vr3ZsehcHMcgerogm7VaqXW18aPzlQ2VAN5b9ht3VOtldxTV1u0xHc8scqYwaBAxM9ivvyuS8zO9SZw1IbpoO62qg7fF6uBqgtcVy/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+7+valorie+hart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1hSYHs8KPE1pGxkOU6xlRZDvpfgVAQ2VLg5B3f88vr3ZsehcHMcgerogm7VaqXW18aPzlQ2VAN5b9ht3VOtldxTV1u0xHc8scqYwaBAxM9ivvyuS8zO9SZw1IbpoO62qg7fF6uBqgtcVy/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+7+valorie+hart.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I searched for a tiny sink - I think it is adorable </td></tr>
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One day my lovely devoted friend Sara Essex Bradley came over to take pictures of what I had done. I was in a sad tailspin, and being with her brought me back some smiles, and the joy that comes from working with with her. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLtYWIgeYj0AxVZ_JbGFX68VKl-UAJixLe3k0ZCg3LeMboGIHvbmcGulnVNspOv1sQMoOQu0bCETU6vsys60iroeUq-imIVVE5qEQkmwEABkW3Op0NRdcnqsY5GYNU_LzRjXKw2-5hwbd6/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+18+valorie+hart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLtYWIgeYj0AxVZ_JbGFX68VKl-UAJixLe3k0ZCg3LeMboGIHvbmcGulnVNspOv1sQMoOQu0bCETU6vsys60iroeUq-imIVVE5qEQkmwEABkW3Op0NRdcnqsY5GYNU_LzRjXKw2-5hwbd6/s1600/upstairs+Bedroom+18+valorie+hart.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This chaise was in our bedroom, and I had it reupholstered </td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">All in all I am happy with the results. The only thing missing is Alberto.</span><br />
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<i>My team: </i><br />
<i>Oscar Amaya (and his wife Elvira and his son Alex) - the contractor who did everything</i><br />
<i>Kevin (and his team) the electrician</i><br />
<i>Tommy (and team) from Pipe Wizard Plumbing</i><br />
<i>Dennis Gaultier (with his wife) - the best wallpaper installers</i><br />
<i>Designer Upholstery by Marvin</i><br />
<i>Drapes installed by Jennifer from Shading Places </i><br />
<i>My neighbor Brian for hauling away Alberto's collection of old electronics</i><br />
<i>Louis St. Lewis for hanging a mirror and his excellent company, kind heart, and sympathetic ear </i><br />
<i>Fellow designer Penny Francis and Donna Russell for their invaluable input about the bathroom </i>The Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-7135121901344438182014-11-28T10:44:00.000-06:002014-11-28T10:44:49.445-06:00Gifting From New Orleans'Tis the shopping season, and I find myself gifting my favorite New Orleans things again. You might have someone who would like something from or about New Orleans. Here are my favorites that you can buy online.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUlVYICXJrmjJiKZxA3WQPPSd_2DPbe2Op3xFjZcHdqOoJhnHZHQfFUBXWozQnEmH5rUdSHAmWEoQsBFJKKK4mW2G17c2QN7aGCvzr6OBjbRF8zzda5ItH7rLksqb-hWRvsB7HZlxg1M6B/s1600/ValorieChristmas_Cholo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUlVYICXJrmjJiKZxA3WQPPSd_2DPbe2Op3xFjZcHdqOoJhnHZHQfFUBXWozQnEmH5rUdSHAmWEoQsBFJKKK4mW2G17c2QN7aGCvzr6OBjbRF8zzda5ItH7rLksqb-hWRvsB7HZlxg1M6B/s1600/ValorieChristmas_Cholo.jpg" height="640" width="568" /></a></div>
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1. <a href="http://kabukihats.com/catalog/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=28_2">Kabuki by Tracy Thompson water meter pot holders. </a>Decorative and functional, these handcrafted kitchen potholders are a
tribute to the iconic New Orleans Water meter cover. Silk screened fabric
is made from a rubbing of the water meter. There are three layers of
batting sandwiched between two layers of canvas, and all are embroidery
quilted together, following the lines of the crescent moon rays.
Available in plain WATERMETER, or choose between 30 Historic New Orleans
neighborhoods and streets.<br />
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2. A set of <a href="http://www.mignonfaget.com/shop/product/home-glassware/8703Y.html">large rocks glasses from Mignon Faget.</a> Everyone has a home bar in New Orleans, from a cart to a tray on the kitchen counter. I love these glasses and have often gifted them. They are great for adult cocktails, soft drinks, water, milk and cookies...<br />
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3. I have not taken off the <a href="http://sterlingsilvia.myshopify.com/collections/necklaces/products/silvias-mini-fleur-de-lis">silver fleur de lis pendant I got from Sterling Silvia</a> when Alberto and I returned home after Katrina. I love the mini size, and it certainly has held up. I have gifted it often as a remembrance of New Orleans. Sterling Silvia is a family owned and operated business by the Asturias family. A member of the Asturias family is usually always present at one or both stores. The Asturias family works hard to ensure that all customers have a joyous and wonderful shopping experience.<span style="color: #444444;"> </span><br />
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4. <a href="http://Sterling Silvia is a family owned and operated business by the Asturias family. A member of the Asturias family is usually always present at one or both stores. The Asturias family works hard to ensure that all customers have a joyous and wonderful shopping experience. ">Lucite tray with New Orleans toile designed by Hazelnut.</a> What could be a better hostess gift?<br />
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5. My book House Proud has been gifted by a lot of people, including myself. Chock full with gorgeous photos by Sara Essex Bradley, and interesting back stories about each house in the book, and useful takeaway decorating tips garnered from each home...well what can I say? If you email me at mizvtheb@yahoo.com, I will send you a personally inscribed and autographed copy to give or to keep.<br />
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6. Two books by Debra Shriver are books I often give as remembrances of New Orleans. They are <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Stealing-Magnolias-Tales-Orleans-Courtyard/dp/0982379919">Stealing Magnolias,</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Spirit-New-Orleans-Debra-Shriver/dp/1614280592">In the Spirit of New Orleans. </a><br />
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7. <a href="http://shop.rouses.com/p-21-louisiana-feast-basket.aspx">Rouses, the locally owned supermarket chain has great gift baskets. </a>Louisiana’s Best! Send a taste of home to displaced Louisianians near and far, and even to those who are only Louisianians at heart! A savory selection of authentic Louisiana seasonings, condiments and seafood boil and dinner mixes fill this reusable wicker basket, which includes a sweet ending to any Louisiana meal, pralines. <span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: 'Verdana','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma;"></span></span><br />
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8. Local artist Ashley Longshore is beloved and wildly successful. Do contact <a href="http://www.ashleylongshore.com/">Ashley Longshore </a>because she always does special affordable art for the holidays. She has designed many things for <a href="http://shop.rouses.com/p-21-louisiana-feast-basket.aspx">Anthropologie, including a series of stunning lamp shades. <span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: 'Verdana','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma;"></span></span></a><br />
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9. Again from <a href="http://www.hazelnutneworleans.com/frames-maps.shtml#">Hazelnut are these very cute New Orleans picture frames.</a> I especially love the St. Charles Avenue trolley car one.<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: 'Verdana','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma;"></span></span><br />
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10. <a href="http://shop.scriptura.com/collections/all?page=1">Scriptura is a very special stationary store,</a> and yes I like to give and get note cards, note pads, place cards, note books...all of that old school stuff. They have wonderful things specific to New Orleans that you can order online. <br />
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So beat the Black Friday madness, and stay home and do some online shopping for some very special inspired by New Orleans. <span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: 'Verdana','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma;"><br />
</span></span>The Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-71415808411364680652014-11-12T11:29:00.000-06:002014-11-12T12:08:28.952-06:00The Office Of A MilongueroThis is the office of a <a href="http://milonguero./">milonguero.</a> For those if you not versed in the world of Argentine tango, a milonguero/milonguera is a person who is a habitue of the milonga, which is the place where tango is danced socially. He is also someone respected and revered for his dedication, knowledge, and love of the Argentine tango. Generally the "office" of a milonguero is the dance floor.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRHBWr3lfsMKYQf363DRZ2vOhefvCBp1LgFyuLhnD9kaV1QtwcxYqF3tPYw-arLz1ZUdOQWbwee9GsncJ4j30Suhd30MADAN7oRVhhYrPWDTxmezQovpbkf6FE3Cul_xIrmgPC77LEt1fz/s1600/alberto+chair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRHBWr3lfsMKYQf363DRZ2vOhefvCBp1LgFyuLhnD9kaV1QtwcxYqF3tPYw-arLz1ZUdOQWbwee9GsncJ4j30Suhd30MADAN7oRVhhYrPWDTxmezQovpbkf6FE3Cul_xIrmgPC77LEt1fz/s640/alberto+chair.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The office of milonguero Alberto Pax</td></tr>
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Alberto Paz was a milonguero. His "office" was the dance floor, and his office was also the archive and library we created for him in our home upstairs in the camel back part of the house. It was there that he kept his books on tango, his art collection, his video tapes, his music collection, his memories in dozens of photo albums of our travels together teaching tango all over the world. He made many videos, wrote many articles, translated tango lyrics from Spanish to English, compiled thousands of hours of tango music for dancing, worked on our tango website and my design website. He had five or six blogs about tango that he maintained, as well as a couple of tango groups on the Internet. He watched TV up there, a steady diet of political shows and news, futbol games (soccer), along with movies and sit-coms (he loved to laugh). He practiced the clarinet, and sang along with the tango music he played (I loved to hear him sing). He sent love letter emails to me when I was in my office downstairs. He napped up there. He would come down everyday to cook for me. We would sit in the kitchen at the table for a couple of hours and talk about our day. Then up he would go again, never bored, always busy and happy with affairs of tango.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He practiced the clarinet...</td></tr>
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There is a check list for grief and mourning the loss of loved one who dies. Starting with the sad and horrible event itself, and the surreal funeral days after that. As a widow (and daughter, son, or sibling who lost a parent), the subsequent weeks are dedicated to dealing with practical concerns of wills, sorting out finances, computer passwords, matters to do with cars, and the wrenching chore of dealing with the belongings of the loved one now gone. Oh yes, you are also trying to get dressed, eat, not get sick, take care of the pets, not let the house fall into the ghostly tragic realm of Miss Havisham, and of course assure your friends and family that you are not suicidal (though in truth you often feel this way). You also have to get back to work, whatever your regular job may be. You slap on your Facebook persona. Most of the time you sit and stare. Sleep is scarce. Or sleep takes over your days. <br />
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Downsizing is not unusual. Often a home is sold. In the case of a spouse the one left behind might move to a smaller place, whether to a family member's home, or an apartment or smaller house. Immediately upon Alberto's passing, many asked me if I would remain in New Orleans or go back to New York. Days after the funeral I had offers to get rid of Alberto's clothes. Frankly, for at least a year or so after the death of someone you love, no huge life changing decisions are a good idea.<br />
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Alberto and I talked about what I would do if he died before I did. We did not have a huge savings, or insurance policies. We worked. We have our mortgaged home. I told him I would stay in New Orleans, the place of the happiest years together. And I would try and stay in our home. Years ago my 90 year old friend Miss Anne gave me a good piece of advice. She told me to have a home large enough to rent out a room or two in the event that Alberto passed away. So over those bright and breezy lunches and dinners at our kitchen table, when Alberto asked me what I would do if he died, I told him I would probably follow Miss Anne's advice and turn our house back into the "double" that it originally was, and rent out a room or two. I also told him I would invite my sister to come and live in that half of the house, knowing that between the two of us we could somehow make it into our old age together.<br />
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It's good to have a plan and a project. I knew I had to get the plan going before depression totally paralyzed me, and I did not have not enough money to keep a roof over my head. Of course I could outright sell the house and make a profit large enough to have a modest means to live in a shoebox of a rental. But that was not the plan. The house is 2200 square feet, so even half of that is a generous shoebox. And it is my shoebox.<br />
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So this past July I started to dismantle Alberto's office upstairs, and turn it into my bedroom. The master bedroom will be on the side of the house that will be rented, or be my sister's half. <br />
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It's has been a journey filled with big emotions, and very hard work. It is phase one of the transformation of the home of a couple, to the home of widow. My aeire upstairs is like an old fashion widows walk in New England. I stand at the windows and look for my husband, my love, to sail home to me.<br />
<br />
So I share these camera phone pictures of Alberto's office just before I started to lovingly dismantle it.<br />
There was not enough light, and I was snapping photos through a veil of tears. They are blurry, a shimmering mirage of time vanishing. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVd0ayiUEi1bG1XSp1wxrDF1iZ_esuxwK32haxaCphJ_05MMgNuTOp31XQ8G5Zyzeh8GV_fWxVa8ON7D9NBiVaKympK3PIziHjhXz8J9-gugJqI1FJfiy9PObX4wBPpvE7-v0hzlNcQceg/s1600/alberto+KKBB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVd0ayiUEi1bG1XSp1wxrDF1iZ_esuxwK32haxaCphJ_05MMgNuTOp31XQ8G5Zyzeh8GV_fWxVa8ON7D9NBiVaKympK3PIziHjhXz8J9-gugJqI1FJfiy9PObX4wBPpvE7-v0hzlNcQceg/s640/alberto+KKBB.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kitty Kitty Bang Bang was Alberto's cat and constant companion upstairs</td></tr>
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<br />The Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-43768698173452723522014-11-10T12:07:00.001-06:002014-11-10T12:34:39.868-06:00AKA Stella Gray: Bohemian LuxuryI discovered the shop AKA Stella Gray a couple of years ago while foraging for a styling job. It was love at first sight. I met the owner Dianna Knost, and that too was love at first sight. Her concept of Bohemian Luxury struck a chord with me. As did her kindness and love of life.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtnuKFJRtkMLnICHx1p54MvSejLK8sWfp-tDULnVskGmrB-WS5AsUAUlTDnjEXXDNGsjO78ygvoms6hTQAvcc-pmO0oOu4wkXw14__Ma_WdpKPl_1xiBMeP9ABXlr0hqYD0IflfDileqGx/s1600/aka1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtnuKFJRtkMLnICHx1p54MvSejLK8sWfp-tDULnVskGmrB-WS5AsUAUlTDnjEXXDNGsjO78ygvoms6hTQAvcc-pmO0oOu4wkXw14__Ma_WdpKPl_1xiBMeP9ABXlr0hqYD0IflfDileqGx/s1600/aka1.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gorgeous new AKA Stella Gray <br />
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<a class="_5bkz _42ef" href="https://www.bing.com/maps/default.aspx?v=2&pc=FACEBK&mid=8100&rtp=adr.%7Epos.29.920441_-90.102243_4422+Magazine+St%2C+New+Orleans%2C+Louisiana&cp=29.920441%7E-90.102243&lvl=16&sty=r&rtop=0%7E0%7E0%7E&mode=D&FORM=FBKPL1&mkt=en-US" id="u_jsonp_2_e" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a><br />
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(504) 208-2300</div>
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She made a bold move when her lease was coming to an end, a bought a wreck of a building on Magazine Street in which to reopen her store. After months and months of a torturous renovation, the new shop is now open for business. It is gorgeous!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ur0TlACrIUlVJwgq0AbtagmyAF3o3fbMEfYZRmA6g5MIFewomcjJzCqwC1hCQtp6I-0q9u46iy40eO-iHdXwwODpb9hGQvtyxPVI8oXLHmp-bJHfG1xclKgH4ieWVTHL6vtwUwzmkfEh/s1600/akaoverview.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ur0TlACrIUlVJwgq0AbtagmyAF3o3fbMEfYZRmA6g5MIFewomcjJzCqwC1hCQtp6I-0q9u46iy40eO-iHdXwwODpb9hGQvtyxPVI8oXLHmp-bJHfG1xclKgH4ieWVTHL6vtwUwzmkfEh/s1600/akaoverview.png" height="640" width="504" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You know you want to come in and see all this gorgeous stuff!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixzfAUOH2KmJ8W_VF1apzyuHMJLHIiCl_P9-3WDepvrIgSoqT_daemiaSwIIZAFrexcAbA5zje0HhXmEWt59ou8R2wnN8sFZw2KmojA-Bji1lyakI2yr4N39f8gHLDcUZ1_WijLUu_BEKy/s1600/aka4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixzfAUOH2KmJ8W_VF1apzyuHMJLHIiCl_P9-3WDepvrIgSoqT_daemiaSwIIZAFrexcAbA5zje0HhXmEWt59ou8R2wnN8sFZw2KmojA-Bji1lyakI2yr4N39f8gHLDcUZ1_WijLUu_BEKy/s1600/aka4.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grab one of these cute shopping carts and fill it up! They are for sale and would be so cute and useful in your home</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6He_O6uI2tFLbi40a2iYHkGNZeq8mROWrhlVxWhNOfFoAfXJnaBwu_rtMhydkiDTyhKnPSMqb75WaTNXaJtCgtuJd-f7iDZAvd3hiGzaTin6LtJlwTJ7Iy74QB1lkJWWHFxypwi2iXpU-/s1600/aka5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6He_O6uI2tFLbi40a2iYHkGNZeq8mROWrhlVxWhNOfFoAfXJnaBwu_rtMhydkiDTyhKnPSMqb75WaTNXaJtCgtuJd-f7iDZAvd3hiGzaTin6LtJlwTJ7Iy74QB1lkJWWHFxypwi2iXpU-/s1600/aka5.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These chandeliers are very affordable</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5tYsL3ff9siSFdcZyebs-PvIP40IxL0JX9c9Ihhr9tikvebgEJHJJBxIzFAhayleaTRK78rIZtY_NqxRy_AemmzuoDT2OYBhrRKcxNt00zf_EcwOcM8EVC3t4qkhqlTt_7lhPN4qruOf5/s1600/aka2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5tYsL3ff9siSFdcZyebs-PvIP40IxL0JX9c9Ihhr9tikvebgEJHJJBxIzFAhayleaTRK78rIZtY_NqxRy_AemmzuoDT2OYBhrRKcxNt00zf_EcwOcM8EVC3t4qkhqlTt_7lhPN4qruOf5/s1600/aka2.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love the way Dianna and krewe style the merchandise</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidCbFk99vW4Z9yZoEydPvA5bosQJj0inSrtS0SckDdm5RmUDb9K-JGrIgbpj1ikoN9ARMYTHKRNBmwVWryjQasOyFaD19_T6zGltE3OUxhm9iNGAa3y_IElh00SNEgtvF2H2kcOtcCEXoN/s1600/aka3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidCbFk99vW4Z9yZoEydPvA5bosQJj0inSrtS0SckDdm5RmUDb9K-JGrIgbpj1ikoN9ARMYTHKRNBmwVWryjQasOyFaD19_T6zGltE3OUxhm9iNGAa3y_IElh00SNEgtvF2H2kcOtcCEXoN/s1600/aka3.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This monumental chandelier has a message that can be seen only from underneath</td></tr>
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Luxury does not always mean expensive. Luxury can be a treat, or an extra frill, or a little indulgence, something to delight and lift the spirit. The new shop is chock full of little affordable luxuries, as well as investment pieces in the way of art, and home furnishings.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo1RVD2UqfihCMzlv0LAz8dRq2EerZfDinFiuhS9qbHbEXjC2Ru66zcph4o8RGzVnG2-NxnBPyP8513NIvIrnpxjFUZsXDZ6z9TRbQMq3GKWVHkZdDxsXcxvDb9VVwsViZ8cNaVMmXDZM-/s1600/akalsl.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo1RVD2UqfihCMzlv0LAz8dRq2EerZfDinFiuhS9qbHbEXjC2Ru66zcph4o8RGzVnG2-NxnBPyP8513NIvIrnpxjFUZsXDZ6z9TRbQMq3GKWVHkZdDxsXcxvDb9VVwsViZ8cNaVMmXDZM-/s1600/akalsl.png" height="338" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my favorite artists Louis St. Lewis has his work in AKA Stella Gray</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIYL4wBVqLvc3ZTZzN0GkaIkteDBcyWdn74fojiAMe5uFK8WUScFslImSmrEqEpZ5zJF40FNtzHg-23pMaenAcAEQjnEDpNqLJfjsyAK3PoVJ1uSzO_b8Uu_ejtj0aytd3tsMb_qlc4TV2/s1600/aka7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIYL4wBVqLvc3ZTZzN0GkaIkteDBcyWdn74fojiAMe5uFK8WUScFslImSmrEqEpZ5zJF40FNtzHg-23pMaenAcAEQjnEDpNqLJfjsyAK3PoVJ1uSzO_b8Uu_ejtj0aytd3tsMb_qlc4TV2/s1600/aka7.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Luxury Bohemian - A cowhide rug stenciled in a metallic damask print, and a one-of-kind ottoman Dianna designed</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSsBT1jioM9NBR9szhjNXkbJZUP_m_sRVDXck7kGTvBs_Dwx5DuIvDd_9lrev1VUy_bIs9vz_MyVPPZmJbJb0kJQwM9G_SXQq-h9ntYMv1GBWVdDKUitHUfYdQ5EM2jEoebrQZj04O8cPe/s1600/aka6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSsBT1jioM9NBR9szhjNXkbJZUP_m_sRVDXck7kGTvBs_Dwx5DuIvDd_9lrev1VUy_bIs9vz_MyVPPZmJbJb0kJQwM9G_SXQq-h9ntYMv1GBWVdDKUitHUfYdQ5EM2jEoebrQZj04O8cPe/s1600/aka6.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love this "bad girl" vignette of fun jewelry</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi1nYAFXWbLmeqHTqq0S6NX3kJiiTCynKIkKJLwTkR5deA7Xb_cVdznWL6lAfTSxPbDVx40ooD8KqKR74vERUpiVVOwOh-yn53lEF8NoTiLptWZr8jZznmukoIA9i2qDnooNk6o1gF3qz-/s1600/aka8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi1nYAFXWbLmeqHTqq0S6NX3kJiiTCynKIkKJLwTkR5deA7Xb_cVdznWL6lAfTSxPbDVx40ooD8KqKR74vERUpiVVOwOh-yn53lEF8NoTiLptWZr8jZznmukoIA9i2qDnooNk6o1gF3qz-/s1600/aka8.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So many pretties - I bought this tiara!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Everything from antique French prints to....</td></tr>
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Shop guys Ben and Arron are friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. And if Dianna is in the shop, you won't meet a more engaging person. So stop by and tell them the Vamp sends you with all her love. Get something for yourself, or start that Christmas shopping now. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD9Voo5iir6XmYnI_wyW1k4GdSGc_PXD7LS1IxA_fuqKBz0_h7yfawLObzk1QoE1XJdMurpOBhb2uziKHshACml-yV97Oefbg6vWGrGQfG8Mv6GF6ojIotnLJyXNVu1743ZPi574mJpb0a/s1600/akadianna.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD9Voo5iir6XmYnI_wyW1k4GdSGc_PXD7LS1IxA_fuqKBz0_h7yfawLObzk1QoE1XJdMurpOBhb2uziKHshACml-yV97Oefbg6vWGrGQfG8Mv6GF6ojIotnLJyXNVu1743ZPi574mJpb0a/s1600/akadianna.png" height="632" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lovely and talented Dianna Knost - tell her the Vamp sends you</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And if you are very lucky you will get to meet shop dog Poppy</td></tr>
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<br />The Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-82673018524333130342014-10-20T11:55:00.000-05:002014-10-20T22:05:07.757-05:00My Reading With Theresa CaputoI had a reading with Theresa Caputo, "The Long Island Medium", when she came to New Orleans to do two sold out shows (3000 people at each show) at the lovely old Saenger Theater. I posted a couple of brief things on Facebook, and many of you want the details. It has taken me a couple of days to think about the experience so I could write about it, and tell you all about it.<br />
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Like everyone who loses someone to death, I miss Alberto so much. I move along like an ant on an anthill, but life has forever changed. My spiritual friends tell me he is always with me. They tell me he is in such a beautiful place that he would not want to come back. Someone else tells me he is gone for good, that he has not left his spirit here. I want him to be here, to believe that the spirit world hovers just beneath the surface of our earthbound reality. <br />
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All questions of religion, incarnation, or believing, or not, that there is something more than our short time on this earth, become like butterflies flying around my head. My belief system is loose regarding God. I was raised a Catholic. I am a spiritual person at a basic decent level. I love life, filled with experiences and people and places and things. I believe in being kind and generous. I'm no angel, but I am a good person.<br />
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I never was drawn to psychics or mediums, much in the same way I am not drawn to religion. I read my horoscope. I say my prayers. Many people I love have died over the years, and while sad about their passing, I remember them, but my grieving came to an end quickly. Alberto is different. The pain I carry daily is the most powerful thing I have ever felt, besides the love I felt for him while he was living and we were together.<br />
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So I find myself reading "widow lit", and watching hokey TV shows about death and the afterlife. I would love to see the art exhibit at the <a href="http://www.metmuseum.org/about-the-museum/press-room/exhibitions/2014/death-becomes-her">Metropolitan Museum in NY called "Death Becomes Her"</a>. As I mindlessly flip channels I hover at the show "Long Island Medium". The only other TV medium I ever watched was on <a href="http://www.tv.com/shows/i-love-lucy/the-sance-15087/">"I Love Lucy",</a> when Vivian Vance played Madam Ethel Mertzola in the seance episode. Come in Tilly...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.tv.com/shows/i-love-lucy/the-sance-15087/">Madame Ethel Mertzola</a></td></tr>
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At first I would just flip by Theresa Caputo doing her thing. The hair; her manicure; the beloved NY accent; the sad people. None of it appealed. But one day I actually watched one episode, then another. Theresa seemed genuine, a person with excellent intuition, and some solid healing common sense psychology that was a comfort to the people she was giving readings to. She had definitely struck a chord. The show is a monster success that has begot two books written by her, and also an impressive road show where she speaks to the dead in major theaters across the USA in sold out performances. Along with her success have come the haters and the de-bunkers.<br />
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I had no burning desire to see her or buy her books. She was just a part of the preoccupation in the lexicon of death and mourning that I am dabbling in. So when a friend told me she was making a return engagement to New Orleans, and would I like to go, I said, sure, why not. It was touch and go regarding the tickets, and I really wasn't counting on it happening, just letting the universe do its thing and the deciding (I told you I was spiritual).<br />
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So the day before the show, my host for this event, a sweet friend, said he had the tickets, in fact he had an extra and I could invite a guest. I invited a friend who was very close to Alberto, and is very close to me. My host had seen the show six months ago, and I was very touched that he would sit it through it again. Neither one of them were there to have Theresa bring someone they lost forward, but I was wanting to hear from Alberto.<br />
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Theresa works a crowd of 3000 people. The stage is set simply. A zebra area rug, a stand with lighted candles and a bouquet of flowers, and a large projection screen with her logo. She comes out to an audience made up of fans from her official fan club and they love her. It's a rock star moment. The hair, the nails, the tight red cocktail dress, and her famous very high heels entirely studded in rhinestones.<br />
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She warms up the audience for about ten minutes, explaining her gift, disclosing her fees for doing group and private readings (very nominal and given to charity), her fan club perks, and her naysayers who say she Googles everything. She says there are a lot of spirits wanting to "talk" and that sometimes they "piggyback" one another creating multiple readings.<br />
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I am educated about psychic tricks of the trade, and Theresa uses them. She may ask "Who's lost their father?" and fifty hands will shoot up near her. Still she zones in on one or two people and asks questions that create a relevant personal experience for the person. "Spirit" is talking to through Theresa.<br />
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The most profound thing for me was the pain in this theater. Three thousand people grieving and missing their loved ones. You could cut the emotion with a knife pulled from the heart. I had tears brimming. You could hear a pin drop. This was no carnival like "Let's Make a Deal" with people raising their hands, or shouting "Pick me, pick me...". There were people of all ages from children, to young adults, to middle aged, and senior.<br />
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Some of the readings were so tragic: Decapitation, murder, kids dying, a sister who bled to death, and on and on. Theresa is a wise cracking New Yorker (which I love), and while totally sincere and sympathetic, she could lighten a moment with humor. And she runs around the huge theater in those very high sparkly heels with extraordinary energy and purpose.<br />
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If she stops and picks someone, a video camera is there immediately and someone hands the person a microphone. The image goes up on the huge screen on the stage so everyone can see. Her crew is phenomenal. The show is two hours long with no intermission, and taking pictures, or videos, or using a phone is strictly forbidden, and the ushers and her crew constantly police this. <br />
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She starts off with the VIP seats close to the stage and then makes her way to the back of the orchestra section of the theater. She had some fun with three young women wearing tiaras. They looked like they came straight from a bridal shower that they were celebrating on Bourbon Street. The gave Theresa a tiara which she wore for the rest of the night. The audience adores her. The first readings are pretty standard, but meaningful. She moves along at a good clip.<br />
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She makes it up to the very top of the balcony. I was sitting at the front of the balcony, so she was behind, and could only be seen up on the video screen. Two of the most wrenching readings took place there. She dramatically says, "I'm getting a decapitation". They audience gasps. Fifty hands definitely did not shoot up. Of course skeptics might say this is the classic "plant" that mediums often utilize. Who knows? It was a heavy dramatic reading.<br />
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Then "Spirit" piggybacked to a man a couple of rows ahead. Theresa asked about a brother and a carjacking. The brother had been murdered. This was a difficult reading. Theresa could not get a handle on it, and the man was very quiet and clearly in pain. She spent a lot of time trying to make connections for this man, but had to give up, clearly disappointed that she could not get him to understand what "Spirit" wanted him to know.<br />
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She moved on. You heard her say to her crew, "Is this mike on?" Then we overheard her talk about how bad she felt that she couldn't get it, and noticed someone in the row doing a video on their phone, and how that distracted her. She was clearly pissed. Then she popped out from the door that was at our balcony level. I was sitting in the first row in the middle of a section with an iron railing in front of me.<br />
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Theresa was moving fast, with her crew running after her. I think she just wanted to get out of the balcony. And then it happened. She stopped dead in front of me. Our eyes locked. I knew she was going to speak to me! I could feel the excitement of my two friends next to me.<br />
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She looks at me. "Who lost her husband?" I say very softly. "I did". Video camera lights, and a microphone thrust into my hand. I am calm, but feeling unreal.<br />
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T - "Did you cook breakfast for your husband"? (My thought bubble is this is a question for every widow).<br />
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Me - "Correct"<br />
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T - "When you have breakfast do you sit in his chair, in the place where you served him his breakfast'? (Again, kind of generic, but I go there).<br />
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Me - "Correct"<br />
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T - "Did you always tell your husband that you would go before him"?<br />
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Me - "Yes".<br />
Now this one kind of got to me, even though this is the kind of a common conversation couples have. Still it was a little joke I used to say to Alberto all the time. He would often have me be his "gofer", because he couldn't bend down, or would tire easily. I would tease him and say why me, why do I have to fetch, to run, to bend, and he would say, because you are the younger prettier one. I would laugh and tell him, "The fickle finger of fate will probably get me and I will go before you, and you will live to be a hundred years old".<br />
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T - "He wants you to know that he is very sorry he left you."<br />
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Then she was gone. She told us at the start of the show that after a reading in this setting people wonder why they didn't ask something, or say something while the reading was happening. They kick themselves thinking they missed an opportunity. She said not to think that way, that it's all good, even if you don't get a reading that night, to know your loved ones are always there for you. Her message is one of healing. She is a guide to getting people to not let the pain and loss make them so sad they find no joy in life.<br />
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Of course I could explain all of this away. The exchange was not extraordinary. She didn't Google me. I didn't buy the tickets where my name could be Googled. My host didn't pay her to stop in front of me. I wasn't sitting there sending out the vibe "Pick me pick me". I was emotionally charged, just as everyone else in that room was. <br />
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But she picked me out of 3000 people.<br />
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Did I feel Alberto was there? No. I felt Theresa was very much there. Was I disappointed? No. Was I exhausted by the evening? Yes. And I cannot imagine how Theresa Caputo feels at the end of these shows, all that pain and sorrow washing over her and through her. The show is a physical and emotional tour de force.<br />
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As I said, I am not disappointed and I hope you are not disappointed with my humble experience either. I am going to get on the very, very long waiting list for a private reading with her. <br />
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After the show my friend and I talked about the whole thing. She feels Alberto left the day he died (she was there with me). She wants dearly for him to be here from the spirit world, but she thinks he is gone. Where? This she does not know. My sister asked me what do I want. It was a good question. Beyond the irrational childish thing of just wanting him back, I don't know what I want. Do I want his love for me, my love for him, to transcend all, so that we can still communicate with one another?<br />
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I have only had a few horrible dreams of Alberto in his coffin. What does this mean? He is with me everyday in my sorrow and longing and pain in missing him. Every facet of my life is imbued by our history. Maybe this is the only connection to him for now. I want to feel joy and not pain.<br />
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I have gratitude for the life and love I had with Alberto. I can and do count off blessings that I had then and I have now. One thing I know for sure is that we all lose someone, or many, that we love, and we all experience the pain and loss in the same way. It felt comforting to be in that audience of 3000 who understand and don't judge and feel life and loss, just as many of you do. We comfort each other in the universality of being human. What do you think?<br />
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<br />The Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-45935988068030635432014-10-06T15:07:00.001-05:002014-10-06T15:46:47.526-05:00Ruffles - And A Personal GiveawayHow many trends have we seen on blogs and drooled over and coveted? Remember ruffles? One of my obsessions was the deep ruffle bedspread, made famous by Joni Webb and Pam Pierce. Always a girl on a budget, I could not afford a custom one, and the closest thing to custom were the ones from pricey Horchow. I finally got my Horchow ruffles, but they didn't work out for the lifestyle of my bed - dog, cat, husband who ate in bed, wife who used bed as an office, a non-ironing household, etc. So it got tucked away.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEild2kv-c1ncZDZn3N6WFRlfqq84SfrgVR6umexPocxzAXEvuQIJbboMt_PqXfFfyWB97vRvgf0IY3ygc6UhxP5o-b_r8Lk7Dj-Z9XiT1jaEb8PIGXT-4KT-hNBhTxeJP0dFBaRbpjL5OyI/s1600/White+Ruffles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEild2kv-c1ncZDZn3N6WFRlfqq84SfrgVR6umexPocxzAXEvuQIJbboMt_PqXfFfyWB97vRvgf0IY3ygc6UhxP5o-b_r8Lk7Dj-Z9XiT1jaEb8PIGXT-4KT-hNBhTxeJP0dFBaRbpjL5OyI/s1600/White+Ruffles.jpg" height="276" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trendy ruffles we all love</td></tr>
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I am downsizing, and moving. Don't get too excited. I am moving to one side of our house, so I can rent the other side, and eventually have my sister retire and live with me. You can just imagine the organizing and purging, and all the emotions connected to this.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWas5g7MIReO5-Wu7L4DsPAyrhIrWU0zrT5QPwCcmak8H4JUeQUDUVdXJFlMd59dw3bKBoVGehQi_XsgKSRFmc_AiYoNrEn1rxsd72Ju7vaMsQhj8YA7o7Nw8oeD7n2JN2d12xD1B1zawP/s1600/joni+BR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWas5g7MIReO5-Wu7L4DsPAyrhIrWU0zrT5QPwCcmak8H4JUeQUDUVdXJFlMd59dw3bKBoVGehQi_XsgKSRFmc_AiYoNrEn1rxsd72Ju7vaMsQhj8YA7o7Nw8oeD7n2JN2d12xD1B1zawP/s1600/joni+BR.jpg" height="474" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cotedetexas.blogspot.com/">Joni Webb</a> inspired me</td></tr>
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Anyway, I have this fabulous white king size deep ruffle bedspread from Horchow up for grabs. FREE. But I must ask you to please pay the shipping and iron it. Who wants it? Leave a comment and I will let Cholo and KKBB do the random choosing from the comments. I would love for it to go to someone who can use it and love it. Where would you use it? <br />
<cite class="_Rm"><b></b><br /></cite>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRNtZK-MTkiHLe__y0DucEACOFpBZGobXIWeCyeNmc2i6GecHiLM5WUm3gzRok6g1d8Y41Nro_nrhsUpC8m3qHKS5yUWvCOk091K7eEjxYOzyweNpycunIuc7HNehCnmYcTisbRbOJn_pC/s1600/val+horchow+spread+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRNtZK-MTkiHLe__y0DucEACOFpBZGobXIWeCyeNmc2i6GecHiLM5WUm3gzRok6g1d8Y41Nro_nrhsUpC8m3qHKS5yUWvCOk091K7eEjxYOzyweNpycunIuc7HNehCnmYcTisbRbOJn_pC/s1600/val+horchow+spread+1.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can have it! My bedroom many many many reincarnations ago!</td></tr>
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<cite class="_Rm"><b></b><br /></cite>
<cite class="_Rm"></cite>In the meantime, enjoy the hit parade of ruffles we have loved over the years, and still do.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW3-Ud4hWUTARrUOqcsWv3wX_OMVUGIzzvTM8RpQEl4PfMTBHvyz6Om75FY56hDrGzjjIRY5CYupsy1gfQH2F8d7lZVI_r2ccX1FLN83PU9pqacU5Fr7ou4JG-OFvG-Kz_N5PoBEcIICDk/s1600/Pam+Pierce+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW3-Ud4hWUTARrUOqcsWv3wX_OMVUGIzzvTM8RpQEl4PfMTBHvyz6Om75FY56hDrGzjjIRY5CYupsy1gfQH2F8d7lZVI_r2ccX1FLN83PU9pqacU5Fr7ou4JG-OFvG-Kz_N5PoBEcIICDk/s1600/Pam+Pierce+1.png" height="440" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.ppiercedesigns.com/">Pam Pierce</a> the master of the ruffle</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ_S75SBTnb17qobqIKC-hc8SDdg1ae1WBkth2Ce6MINemjjU9-7UqEWYpF4jVL5e_9d40yV-0VJbDdgYsw4sYH-DcMn3ytxbqk_000QAOw3lWmRSZq05jEsNHV65fJJeHTpo39viOa5T7/s1600/image%5B97%5D.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ_S75SBTnb17qobqIKC-hc8SDdg1ae1WBkth2Ce6MINemjjU9-7UqEWYpF4jVL5e_9d40yV-0VJbDdgYsw4sYH-DcMn3ytxbqk_000QAOw3lWmRSZq05jEsNHV65fJJeHTpo39viOa5T7/s1600/image%255B97%255D.png" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pam Pierce mixed modern with ruffles1</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8uIG8aiyHHFAWUVilAwCJxvaI9GuLt_69q7LzUrLVJFUOKXe5wYLj4EBwJ3MqawtD8ps89hpXCAFMgHnisdzNZP3YOXKhoetZdVR12RpAu1QDu1bkCsZbjieRix0bCC-BEMt8zF1vV-ac/s1600/image_thumb%5B36%5D.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8uIG8aiyHHFAWUVilAwCJxvaI9GuLt_69q7LzUrLVJFUOKXe5wYLj4EBwJ3MqawtD8ps89hpXCAFMgHnisdzNZP3YOXKhoetZdVR12RpAu1QDu1bkCsZbjieRix0bCC-BEMt8zF1vV-ac/s1600/image_thumb%255B36%255D.png" height="394" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vintage Pam Pierce</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis5bbS_7B8EKHHihIbNcFcssebEAmbj3ERVxwikPO8ASFfDv31KLgVqOwZvBR3Me3vwjd-bRO-GX_YdxDpVV4sDPZO3X2V5z3YqWrJdTlMpjbHt9gw1UBQoSth6Uj2dAO1sqWxdsDYsqJQ/s1600/furniture-fancy-lavender-ruffle-twin-bedding-combined-with-lavender-ruffle-pillows-in-slim-black-bed-frame-for-girls-room-21-adorable-twin-beddings-for-kids-to-adult.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis5bbS_7B8EKHHihIbNcFcssebEAmbj3ERVxwikPO8ASFfDv31KLgVqOwZvBR3Me3vwjd-bRO-GX_YdxDpVV4sDPZO3X2V5z3YqWrJdTlMpjbHt9gw1UBQoSth6Uj2dAO1sqWxdsDYsqJQ/s1600/furniture-fancy-lavender-ruffle-twin-bedding-combined-with-lavender-ruffle-pillows-in-slim-black-bed-frame-for-girls-room-21-adorable-twin-beddings-for-kids-to-adult.jpg" height="528" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anthropologie made us all swoon...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-uvP7Qpim1xQZsopTdrRT5Pa0RRYDHyq0G5b_-eAHDjHhR4PX9mJL7q1nAh8GUci7d-jks0SRCV7dE2IyWvLV606I5fqxfqHRTrszqaa5CMORQ8M1icAAaQvJ-L7WO5EKOiQW8dI9S46y/s1600/6a0112793ddf7b28a4014e8bd9985e970d-pi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-uvP7Qpim1xQZsopTdrRT5Pa0RRYDHyq0G5b_-eAHDjHhR4PX9mJL7q1nAh8GUci7d-jks0SRCV7dE2IyWvLV606I5fqxfqHRTrszqaa5CMORQ8M1icAAaQvJ-L7WO5EKOiQW8dI9S46y/s1600/6a0112793ddf7b28a4014e8bd9985e970d-pi.jpg" height="398" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...and drool</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn7ZBUmkoJ6jHEZTE_F4Kwp90qD2o17mjE79R13ypzk9r7jBTc8p_Aymlt2pBl_glIYVMsE1HcHchrxOjPWBF11bWRNIEKSJKtjM8rjxF0wNYPM4q0hG3ZBKeEMa6vofyOlpqvoCQEYj0G/s1600/0cd2434a5a98.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn7ZBUmkoJ6jHEZTE_F4Kwp90qD2o17mjE79R13ypzk9r7jBTc8p_Aymlt2pBl_glIYVMsE1HcHchrxOjPWBF11bWRNIEKSJKtjM8rjxF0wNYPM4q0hG3ZBKeEMa6vofyOlpqvoCQEYj0G/s1600/0cd2434a5a98.jpg" height="640" width="427" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So many nurseries and kids rooms got ruffled</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinIrAYsQ4lnC_pYd2b7GSrKz4WYpmMVNsf2hmkg9s5WBQ8lkhtmRTl4TF3ZMonnwQuqnYI5AwxlEHgXkTklZb1cjQGIra1hQMJco2bJ4dDE6ivvstkBhYQcT1OTVLZireuSozmQpNFHIor/s1600/jill+master+BR.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinIrAYsQ4lnC_pYd2b7GSrKz4WYpmMVNsf2hmkg9s5WBQ8lkhtmRTl4TF3ZMonnwQuqnYI5AwxlEHgXkTklZb1cjQGIra1hQMJco2bJ4dDE6ivvstkBhYQcT1OTVLZireuSozmQpNFHIor/s1600/jill+master+BR.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jill DeBroeck has a gorgeous bedroom with a deep ruffle bedspread - Her home is in my book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/House-Proud-Unique-Design-Louisiana/dp/0988174537">House Proud</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPc-ZFR10j6khu8LXoMM4jcCcb8pejjF2WffE_MD98y_Z4iSgky6SGmXXtDOa_jro160ggiqrmA3myZUsPLUafvFRmYaRDXsrWmKETfAy_0R17jBIFa76tQjj1ITmSThpDTLMLzoPUnNbb/s1600/horchow+legacy+bedspread.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPc-ZFR10j6khu8LXoMM4jcCcb8pejjF2WffE_MD98y_Z4iSgky6SGmXXtDOa_jro160ggiqrmA3myZUsPLUafvFRmYaRDXsrWmKETfAy_0R17jBIFa76tQjj1ITmSThpDTLMLzoPUnNbb/s1600/horchow+legacy+bedspread.png" height="640" width="512" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here's the one I bought from <a href="http://www.horchow.com/Legacy-Home-Hampton-Bed-Linens-White/cprod99130011_cat15560735_cat15560733_/p.prod?isEditorial=false&index=26&cmCat=cat000000cat000072cat15560733cat15560735">Horchow</a> that you can have for FREEEEEE!!! Mine of course is EUC</td></tr>
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<br />The Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-62207143055560601882014-09-27T07:52:00.000-05:002014-09-27T07:52:57.530-05:00Sblogging = Slog + BlogAn article on blogging done in the<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2014/09/25/garden/when-blogging-becomes-a-slog.html?ref=garden&_r=0"> New York Times</a> has been making the rounds. It's about blogger burnout.<br />
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All the usual poster children of the blog world are in the article, talking about how they have to take a break, or have moved onto posting less calling it slow blogging. Everything has a shelf life. Or life simply becomes more demanding. Boo-fucking-hoo. Okay that was snarky. But really, The New York Times deserves it sometimes. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCJqJtcRtGShjK-BikHfMbw24P0rZKh5-3sHGKSnkHmGpmnB8CoW_EEx-fCdU3vgiRrDbgZ0t6Z_tmLkHD6-lUGYok3910c7qB-B41gjT-6X1b3JQ6vtcMrWxwfJQjx3KHz5zi8AXehTa1/s1600/NY+TIMES+Mandi+Gubler.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCJqJtcRtGShjK-BikHfMbw24P0rZKh5-3sHGKSnkHmGpmnB8CoW_EEx-fCdU3vgiRrDbgZ0t6Z_tmLkHD6-lUGYok3910c7qB-B41gjT-6X1b3JQ6vtcMrWxwfJQjx3KHz5zi8AXehTa1/s1600/NY+TIMES+Mandi+Gubler.png" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2014/09/25/garden/when-blogging-becomes-a-slog.html?ref=garden&_r=0#slideshow/100000003134391/100000003135927"> The New York Times</a></td></tr>
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Remember when we all started blogging? We were in a fever to share and over share on a daily, if not hourly basis. I loved having other design geeks to communicate with. But sooner or later you run out of projects because you actually finish your house (for the moment). Or it takes too much time and money to produce those cute and crafty DIY posts. Or new and easier ways to photo share crop up like Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, etc. Or it gets to be a chore (like doing homework or having a deadline) to come up with posts. Or you start putting ads on your blog that have to be managed. Or your blog becomes a "brand" or a business marketing tool that needs to be constantly cultivated.<br />
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I have slowed down because I am in the thick of grief. Living without Alberto is a shadow life. I am still at the stage where getting up, getting dressed, and doing work is about all I can handle sometimes.<br />
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I don't have guilt about not blogging. My younger friends say blogs are dinosaurs. But then so am I. Some bloggers stopped because they got fed up with the cliques that wouldn't let them in. I never let my blog be the boss of me. I chose to keep it homey and personal. Wonderful things happened because of my blog in a fabulous hippie-dippie organic way: Friends, work, my book, learning things, etc. There was no master plan to take over the design world. <br />
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I am proud of my blog. I was "new" when I started in 2008. There were others that started in 2006 and 2007 who I looked up to. This blog is my life history, an archive, forever etched on the Internet. No one may care, or someone might. I care. We all want to leave our mark on the world. Blogs have enabled a zillion souls to leave a legacy. I am so thankful for the body of work that Alberto put out there via his many blogs, Youtube, Facebook, and our Planet Tango web site. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDqMkQsnvJT877gq1kgKVv4_g5nQIFNKbqLH7pKs8SwjK3pfs7yQGGg-zEPteMHs0B7_1WnddJ6CoySSteBZuqplGkocuIykIR2Y4Cmg_Ax5JgZZq7o_o7npLDV85LuZVasEtOA4R6cG1W/s1600/ptheader.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDqMkQsnvJT877gq1kgKVv4_g5nQIFNKbqLH7pKs8SwjK3pfs7yQGGg-zEPteMHs0B7_1WnddJ6CoySSteBZuqplGkocuIykIR2Y4Cmg_Ax5JgZZq7o_o7npLDV85LuZVasEtOA4R6cG1W/s1600/ptheader.jpg" height="306" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From the blog <a href="http://thetangolife.wordpress.com/">The Tango Life</a></td></tr>
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What about you guys? Are you still reading blogs? Are you still posting on your blogs? I can still spend a happy day clicking around reading blogs I love. It's how I stay in touch. Every post doesn't have to be a masterpiece. Sometimes I go back in my own archive to read early posts, and I love the innocence and enthusiasm. I still feel that way. <br />
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I also think we have all become victims of the over share. Along with cameras on cell phones came the thrill of documenting everything with an ease that was so exciting and seductive. But while snapping pictures we missed the actual experience of what we were taking photos of. I had some girls over for dinner. These are some of the women who have been keeping me alive these past sad months. They check in on me, feed me, lend me money, take me out, and never, never weary of my tears or talking about Alberto. I asked them to please not take any pictures or post anything anywhere. I didn't know what reaction I would get, but all of them were relieved and delighted to truly be relaxed in the selfie-less moment.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjesVHlnfbiV0IuLpymN_BLPYUtIzdoz7Fc0RVh6OLfGOK6OkQ8apoFmEsAxGfz1Nz68tzcOorXXXmgBxRxyU2Rrb97msxXm4n92oCzx6hKepaj3d3CBanLAUh_9mqP9JqlT1YKzwgZmKDT/s1600/selfies-anonymous-is-a-thing-that-should-exist-2-29972-1404768804-22_dblbig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjesVHlnfbiV0IuLpymN_BLPYUtIzdoz7Fc0RVh6OLfGOK6OkQ8apoFmEsAxGfz1Nz68tzcOorXXXmgBxRxyU2Rrb97msxXm4n92oCzx6hKepaj3d3CBanLAUh_9mqP9JqlT1YKzwgZmKDT/s1600/selfies-anonymous-is-a-thing-that-should-exist-2-29972-1404768804-22_dblbig.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />The Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-54171928705873283232014-09-21T11:24:00.002-05:002014-09-21T11:39:51.729-05:00New Build of the YearI recently did a feature for<a href="http://www.myneworleans.com/New-Orleans-Homes-Lifestyles/"> New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles</a> honoring architect <a href="http://www.ma.com/">Morris Adjmi</a> for the new build of the year. If you are in New Orleans pick up an issue if you don't already subscribe. For you visual vamps outside of New Orleans NOH&L is very worthy to subscribe to. I am a firm believer that there is outstanding design talent in New Orleans that can inspire you and hold up to any other design work anywhere. So subscribe <a href="http://www.myneworleans.com/New-Orleans-Homes-Lifestyles/">HERE</a><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh94zwi6yf7v8d8_jM7-te7oe4KNJXDVJGBA5L5ouJrlmAacxGhJ5_trSiLt88F4YgvRWTI9QsumZ2zmIZY6CVEV7j0bvjdt1cdnz4P0ty64M9zvli0U2C-5FEd0C-rZ-SbHuQ_W_V7jSsk/s1600/Vicki&Lisa_dining-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh94zwi6yf7v8d8_jM7-te7oe4KNJXDVJGBA5L5ouJrlmAacxGhJ5_trSiLt88F4YgvRWTI9QsumZ2zmIZY6CVEV7j0bvjdt1cdnz4P0ty64M9zvli0U2C-5FEd0C-rZ-SbHuQ_W_V7jSsk/s1600/Vicki&Lisa_dining-2.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Modern dining room - Interior Design by Valorie Hart</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOayb8vQDOpTCjxSFp7YrcVyyoQAG72lvH4w2qQKw1Oi4GoErDT6sc7JNZ_sJfbK9fQtbnpHVznNeJRnny0UESby5VqU3LMJcA95aPig_XAL2-3pgKlKe1cFlpEMOdh8sSk0ST412oTJjr/s1600/bb17c0eae4016816a4f3dc6a74e1162c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOayb8vQDOpTCjxSFp7YrcVyyoQAG72lvH4w2qQKw1Oi4GoErDT6sc7JNZ_sJfbK9fQtbnpHVznNeJRnny0UESby5VqU3LMJcA95aPig_XAL2-3pgKlKe1cFlpEMOdh8sSk0ST412oTJjr/s1600/bb17c0eae4016816a4f3dc6a74e1162c.jpg" height="640" width="475" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.myneworleans.com/New-Orleans-Homes-Lifestyles/">New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles - Fall 2014 - Subscribe</a></td></tr>
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I also love this house because I did the interior design for it. When I first saw the house, it was a plain white box with a few pieces of place holder furniture from Ikea. The aesthetic was definitely modern, and I was not sure how my brand of mix would dovetail with the owners. But mesh it did, and it was one of my most rewarding projects.<br />
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Here are a the pages from the magazine, and a few out takes. The wonderful photography is by <a href="http://www.saraessexbradley.com/">Sara Essex Bradley. </a><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia7guLaYQN0A30sOTsPWr8ooMM9ZO_EGjux35q18VSLAVnjv5ULLfnGGmGiMhZG7zVdVJ1FUFG8qjObV-N_Cy6L1wKGIFrbozTdLI5OOBFP3O2N_NQyFss1oVDWDrXTy-SdblV4ykg3fdU/s1600/NOH&L+Fall+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia7guLaYQN0A30sOTsPWr8ooMM9ZO_EGjux35q18VSLAVnjv5ULLfnGGmGiMhZG7zVdVJ1FUFG8qjObV-N_Cy6L1wKGIFrbozTdLI5OOBFP3O2N_NQyFss1oVDWDrXTy-SdblV4ykg3fdU/s1600/NOH&L+Fall+1.png" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.myneworleans.com/New-Orleans-Homes-Lifestyles/Fall-2014/New-Construction-of-the-Year-Back-to-the-Future/">New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles Fall 2014 - Interior Design by Valorie Hart</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju0NgGU9W8wHVHJGHQhuoi0b-WAyU7D0sw2EQAhlqpYXiwWavFGuAC2J8yXWj3mryvC_KzwlSLnisbEkTpyNaDhpqIvL2pCzybF5HIEuuJUHJllx66w-QR12kgAvMMZ0If-m7VLFdPrJdk/s1600/NOH&L+Fall+2.png" height="408" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.myneworleans.com/New-Orleans-Homes-Lifestyles/">New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles Fall 2014 - Interior Design by Valorie Hart</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL78xVLsjiOXEqyHS40-6RoeGjXB-4-GSjfdmEJFU6o1iA8ee0Fz3PGysDnX3AScg08An7btEXKRqJfd-HpVW_wanYIpuGBfzJSXUdi8SZsFnC9FKj0eFlY3YMMdweF6qx6eeH10T2jx7y/s1600/NOH&L+Fall+3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL78xVLsjiOXEqyHS40-6RoeGjXB-4-GSjfdmEJFU6o1iA8ee0Fz3PGysDnX3AScg08An7btEXKRqJfd-HpVW_wanYIpuGBfzJSXUdi8SZsFnC9FKj0eFlY3YMMdweF6qx6eeH10T2jx7y/s1600/NOH&L+Fall+3.png" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.myneworleans.com/New-Orleans-Homes-Lifestyles/Fall-2014/New-Construction-of-the-Year-Back-to-the-Future/">New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles Fall 2014 - Interior Design by Valorie Hart</a></td></tr>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWuSxdlaiI70isTUyFUA0I8BAZZ7EvyCXwUBRwS34daR6C3iTY2xbiEPiw8aZhuAYid1dbOvXw02Q01vn6BdSotvVwxnYCLstr5ihMauJ7OSGkZquXHd8Cz1KMObHQ8-9x3JAHi-L5T5mJ/s1600/NOH&L+4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWuSxdlaiI70isTUyFUA0I8BAZZ7EvyCXwUBRwS34daR6C3iTY2xbiEPiw8aZhuAYid1dbOvXw02Q01vn6BdSotvVwxnYCLstr5ihMauJ7OSGkZquXHd8Cz1KMObHQ8-9x3JAHi-L5T5mJ/s1600/NOH&L+4.png" height="428" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.myneworleans.com/New-Orleans-Homes-Lifestyles/Fall-2014/New-Construction-of-the-Year-Back-to-the-Future/">New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles Fall 2014 - Interior Design by Valorie Har</a>t</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlnY-ovgjNsCZdEjyaN09l5w9viYYn3VOygftE9ldiK6fM50HYA9EM1k4YvKgP23sOOkDQ3sd320kfwm4_EFB9bfFaqqBAq-PUzMq8urBef27e-e8NmhUu4svxm31c8m9OtfjSJL9O4d1x/s1600/NOH&L+Fall+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlnY-ovgjNsCZdEjyaN09l5w9viYYn3VOygftE9ldiK6fM50HYA9EM1k4YvKgP23sOOkDQ3sd320kfwm4_EFB9bfFaqqBAq-PUzMq8urBef27e-e8NmhUu4svxm31c8m9OtfjSJL9O4d1x/s1600/NOH&L+Fall+5.png" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.myneworleans.com/New-Orleans-Homes-Lifestyles/Fall-2014/New-Construction-of-the-Year-Back-to-the-Future/">New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles Fall 2014 - Interior Design by Valorie Hart</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyD8TlO4fmqkuGZyZ_I6srdazLJ4MsS4TK5moY2JD3QJ96udkTmHpKD8wD76yCKH__MS5r5pFfcXdFVF_jaSbWbLBuYZ1SR4rX6eCTEXChgyKRl_dTymGcplN6s6uzJ_QXnj9swfZHsTxL/s1600/vicki+hallway.jpg" height="640" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="414" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Wallpaper from <a href="http://www.flavorpaper.com/">Flavor Paper</a> in a two story stairwell - Interior design by Valorie Hart</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7z1i7CZxU1tuQEE1JqYUXlN0Aa59fBfLgmBSsniE75jauFVzkOwbpoHDTiStWhrkRt3ITg4grKjVh9G3DJoeyKPnC8HO_akX4Q0hYtQYat9Qn0wwaQuhzood-eyOuwE1kUTb2T7aF28Zp/s1600/Vicki&Lisa_livingroom-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7z1i7CZxU1tuQEE1JqYUXlN0Aa59fBfLgmBSsniE75jauFVzkOwbpoHDTiStWhrkRt3ITg4grKjVh9G3DJoeyKPnC8HO_akX4Q0hYtQYat9Qn0wwaQuhzood-eyOuwE1kUTb2T7aF28Zp/s1600/Vicki&Lisa_livingroom-2.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pair of vintage chairs reupholstered by <a href="http://www.leonels.com/">Leonels</a> in Kravet fabric; toss pillows are custom except for "Be Nice or Leave"; rug custom over dyed by<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/LondonVarner"> London Varner;</a> pair of oversize modern lamps from<a href="http://eclectichome.net/"> Eclectic Home </a>- Interior design by Valorie Hart</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHVy_KCGeuuzYGT0WjlWITT8WzD24qq-K0pvUeCkWqQ8vtTbQVQPagaRtmJAaPUqkJiVqmE1PeaqQZf0VEe2pT_7Di_ephYGVKlq-t0Tjf-Fv3I3ZvIXXd1KaShM5N_dBGpPyDX3PLm8md/s1600/Vicki&Lisa_coffeetable+detail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHVy_KCGeuuzYGT0WjlWITT8WzD24qq-K0pvUeCkWqQ8vtTbQVQPagaRtmJAaPUqkJiVqmE1PeaqQZf0VEe2pT_7Di_ephYGVKlq-t0Tjf-Fv3I3ZvIXXd1KaShM5N_dBGpPyDX3PLm8md/s1600/Vicki&Lisa_coffeetable+detail.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vintage Bitosi urn; "Be Nice of Leave" pillow from <a href="http://www.theshopsat2011.com/">The Shops at 2011 </a>- Interior design by Valorie Hart</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp54HgwJT7I4jkNWBITftXPNSH5s3RcJas0PG_c6Ji0oYtV83yK36miRJAbAihz0wJVKiIygZOR-ORCBKQHFmegv-6oAvZJhkJLpjN26HtX33FsisaChia_Z5jRYk6pOxcXBba-bhPpAdB/s1600/vicki+detail+charlie+nightstand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp54HgwJT7I4jkNWBITftXPNSH5s3RcJas0PG_c6Ji0oYtV83yK36miRJAbAihz0wJVKiIygZOR-ORCBKQHFmegv-6oAvZJhkJLpjN26HtX33FsisaChia_Z5jRYk6pOxcXBba-bhPpAdB/s1600/vicki+detail+charlie+nightstand.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Detail in child's bedroom - Interior design by Valorie Hart</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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For shopping and more sources, please go to <a href="http://www.myneworleans.com/New-Orleans-Homes-Lifestyles/">New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles </a>magazine.<br />
Have talent, will travel - contact me at mizvtheb@yahoo.com - no project too large or too small.The Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-45249203022644433212014-09-15T11:09:00.001-05:002014-09-15T11:12:08.368-05:00Happy Birthday MILIEU!Launching a new shelter magazine is daunting in the best of times. It is especially courageous in this digital age that has seen the demise of so many beloved magazines. <a href="http://www.ppiercedesigns.com/">Pam Pierce</a> has talent and vision and drive and believes in unicorns and happy endings. Well maybe not unicorns, but she has done something extraordinary with MILIEU magazine. It has made it to its one year anniversary, and I am sure there will be many more to come.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYEoyvmXzUPVvPiFSmXqg7vA-kIOA10A7MZv2PRES9LAqJSAUrmcaxaH3Y9FNuLdGUX_YuMjj_eA5BlTAjGEyF4mohv1Bisia4FtctVUCfraK3GXII2wPnUXhhPlpU5rjzFGXrp9VefsWb/s1600/image_thumb%5B7%5D.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYEoyvmXzUPVvPiFSmXqg7vA-kIOA10A7MZv2PRES9LAqJSAUrmcaxaH3Y9FNuLdGUX_YuMjj_eA5BlTAjGEyF4mohv1Bisia4FtctVUCfraK3GXII2wPnUXhhPlpU5rjzFGXrp9VefsWb/s1600/image_thumb%255B7%255D.png" /></a></div>
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Pick up a gorgeous hard copy wherever shelter magazines are sold.<br />
<a href="https://www.milieu-mag.com/Common/Subscription">Or subscribe to MILIEU HERE,</a> and you can also check out <a href="https://www.milieu-mag.com/Story?storyId=95">MILIEU online.</a><br />
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This issue is extra special to me, because I have the honor of having one of my design projects featured in it! Peter Vitale did the beautiful photography, and Pam oversaw the shoot. I placed myself in their hands as the lovely assistant, always eager to see how someone else would handle a photo shoot. It looks amazing! Former NOLA resident Suzanne Levert wrote the article with insight and verve. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRJDhTlGd1b28yIBQpVahOEPhsyffUMLfb57OgiAT5OkdM0jWIpEUB3y0JoV-48-WvjOXnjUMJqsOzZW-BfsSSe5mQGTYTID32r0av8TNqYyvj4DQiTt52M2vInPjTLG5WoHdhuRCZVe5L/s1600/milieu+blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRJDhTlGd1b28yIBQpVahOEPhsyffUMLfb57OgiAT5OkdM0jWIpEUB3y0JoV-48-WvjOXnjUMJqsOzZW-BfsSSe5mQGTYTID32r0av8TNqYyvj4DQiTt52M2vInPjTLG5WoHdhuRCZVe5L/s1600/milieu+blog.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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As usual I like to take along as many people with me when something good happens to me. I use local merchants and artists in my design work as much as possible. I featured photographer <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lisa-Conrad-Photo/297480916939781">Lisa Conrad,</a> art from <a href="http://www.gallery-orange.com/">Gallery Orange,</a> home furnishings from <a href="http://eclectichome.net/">Eclectic Home,</a><a href="http://www.sourcenola.com/"> Source, </a><a href="http://www.yourrenaissance.com/">Renaissance Interiors,</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/akastellagray">AKA Stella Gray.</a> Local craftspeople <a href="http://www.shadingplaces.com/">Shading Places</a> and <a href="http://mitchellsettoon.com/">Mitchell Settoon </a>also did great work for me and got a shout out.<br />
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I also connected fellow New Orleans designer <a href="http://donnamasellidesigns.com/">Donna Masselli </a>with MILIEU, and I am proud to see that she got the cover! You know how I love New Orleans and all the talent here. <br />
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Joni Webb from<a href="http://cotedetexas.blogspot.com/2014/09/milieu-magazinethe-fall-2014-issue.html"> Cote de Texas</a> did a wonderful post about this issue of MILIEU so take a look at that too.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqxYYZZlvKRj8WEivONB38Ws8YkXXaf6Ewftn0Q3uvJkYE1d92Kf5nuAUoy4m6cWMIWbR3veP-pf833LbptjLLbJaBhvi6J7QRfwHevuIaTbF_2hM33gYFV0NTrmE8eESfzdCx6WKjMx3p/s1600/miliue+val+cote+de+texas.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqxYYZZlvKRj8WEivONB38Ws8YkXXaf6Ewftn0Q3uvJkYE1d92Kf5nuAUoy4m6cWMIWbR3veP-pf833LbptjLLbJaBhvi6J7QRfwHevuIaTbF_2hM33gYFV0NTrmE8eESfzdCx6WKjMx3p/s1600/miliue+val+cote+de+texas.png" height="640" width="506" /></a></div>
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I have been posting few and far between. I apologize. Grief will not be hurried. Just working to make a living exhausts me. I so wish Alberto was here to see this issue of MILIEU. He did a lot of things for me on this project, and the clients Erica and Kevin loved him. He was always so proud of me and my work. He would be thrilled for me. <br />
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Anyhoo, it goes without saying: Have talent, will travel. Keep me in mind for styling, decorating, designing, and writing...xo xo<br />
<br />The Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-31722891419824929852014-08-30T10:34:00.002-05:002014-08-30T10:47:39.877-05:00Hailey<a href="http://bit.ly/1p6Yt41"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Here is the link:VOTE FOR HAILEY</span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span> <br />
My grand niece Hailey is an amazing girl. She lives in Apache Junction, Arizona and she is quite the little cow girl. She has entered a contest and I need your help my dear Visual Vamp readers to vote for her in a contest the Girl Scouts are having (Hailey is a Girl Scout). Just click on the link and vote. You can vote many times, once an hour. We need to get her a couple of thousand votes pronto. Hailey is so proud of her Auntie Vamp's blog and is hoping that I can help her out. <br />
So go on and vote! You guys are always in my corner and you know I love you for it.<a href="http://bit.ly/1p6Yt41"><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj3udjyD20jPwJJsGiq6viORylyO-T-Mgz7o3gs9hZaP4fTu3z4blfpnnfy86-Vd-hrRFHWGBUZ79MWR9w02FA79VHQkEoB5-WdUwbOAY7rJN2eXCILH4KYm8Kze7US6HWVFYxDsrvA_ef/s1600/K3DA7t.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj3udjyD20jPwJJsGiq6viORylyO-T-Mgz7o3gs9hZaP4fTu3z4blfpnnfy86-Vd-hrRFHWGBUZ79MWR9w02FA79VHQkEoB5-WdUwbOAY7rJN2eXCILH4KYm8Kze7US6HWVFYxDsrvA_ef/s1600/K3DA7t.png" height="640" width="616" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hailey owns her horse, cares for it, and competes in barrel racing!</td></tr>
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From the Girl Scouts:<br />
<br />
<i>Who says Girl Scouts is just about cookies, camps, and crafts? Whoever
it was certainly forgot about health, fitness, and leadership!
Since the beginning of time—1912, to be exact—Girl Scouts of the USA has
placed special emphasis on the importance of staying active and
adopting a healthy lifestyle full of creative outdoor activities and a
balanced diet.
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We want to see you in action!
<br />
First place: $300 gift card plus GirlSports merchandise bundle
Second place: $150 gift card plus GirlSports merchandise bundle
Third place: GirlSports merchandise bundle.</i><br />
<a href="http://bit.ly/1p6Yt41"><span style="font-size: x-large;">PLEASE Vote for HAILEY HERE</span></a>The Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-52212123538091781772014-08-04T12:12:00.000-05:002014-08-04T12:17:24.817-05:00Infused With Chic Mardi Gras ColorsKicking off Essence Festival 2014, the McDonald’s Infused culinary event
at Café Reconcile in New Orleans offered a unique approach to
McDonald’s menu items. Partnering with Café Reconcile, the McDonald’s
Infused event celebrated local cuisine while remixing them with ingredients McDonald's uses on its everyday menu.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFWOOTTuYzBur2GoyYcA1WyOplnZj3p-J3hx1z6lX4_LNElgAMk6lZHq0ACgAQmAs2rd2Yq9TEHOqczhNS5gF5nSIIE6Hv8U_1TZ0U9X2Mg8Qj_DXgS3R3KI5eh2rPFwUC5GbAF8u2ildN/s1600/essenceMK6.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFWOOTTuYzBur2GoyYcA1WyOplnZj3p-J3hx1z6lX4_LNElgAMk6lZHq0ACgAQmAs2rd2Yq9TEHOqczhNS5gF5nSIIE6Hv8U_1TZ0U9X2Mg8Qj_DXgS3R3KI5eh2rPFwUC5GbAF8u2ildN/s1600/essenceMK6.jpg" height="506" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Infused with chic color</td></tr>
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I got a call from a colleague (Mark Musters) in New York about doing the decor for this event. He could not do it so he connected with me a terrific event planner named Mary Kay Navarro who is based in Chicago. I become her visual point person in New Orleans.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC9UdJ3f9J0GJhOnfGXZk06TJP0UpTv_o7cFa_EgycCerWW-WIXnT8-BaFjF3VtSRzW8cQ31dtPp0zof-Ys5vg4ufLQPbLycDoZ_Gh0_E14Pq26sGaj0Zt7tlFp3Rbu8bS3kisvNiKdWLK/s1600/DSC05397.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC9UdJ3f9J0GJhOnfGXZk06TJP0UpTv_o7cFa_EgycCerWW-WIXnT8-BaFjF3VtSRzW8cQ31dtPp0zof-Ys5vg4ufLQPbLycDoZ_Gh0_E14Pq26sGaj0Zt7tlFp3Rbu8bS3kisvNiKdWLK/s1600/DSC05397.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting ready to stage the room</td></tr>
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The brief I got was that while New Orleans elements and carnival colors (purple. green, gold) would be used, they had to be chic and sophisticated. The usual dark more gaudy purples were replaced with a smoky lavender. The emerald green of Mardi Gras was replaced with a more chartreuse green, and the gold was re-imagined as silver.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio9SsdMxXk3D7nDpXIUbEvw6GqTiyULYUjfKum48MUroRE8leQxYew4720BkzKQDvnIZqNFZAfvMA98xpkK_zAE5Q09osAI5WTVIbDQ4aqNO5bwaU5vHUzss_vt5ZNm5rHZgx08ZPjpCa3/s1600/DSC05398.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio9SsdMxXk3D7nDpXIUbEvw6GqTiyULYUjfKum48MUroRE8leQxYew4720BkzKQDvnIZqNFZAfvMA98xpkK_zAE5Q09osAI5WTVIbDQ4aqNO5bwaU5vHUzss_vt5ZNm5rHZgx08ZPjpCa3/s1600/DSC05398.jpg" height="640" width="532" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My assistant Joe setting up silver lanterns - lanterns are very much identified with New Orleans</td></tr>
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The event was held at Cafe Reconcile, which is a restaurant used to train young people (age 16-22) in all facets of the hospitality industry. It is a terrific program focusing on inner city kids that empowers these kids to take a career path.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6hFCwdo3qfyQmtES0G7gJNwictWFC4ZdYFoh5exrX5ApP60Z7vMgsBX0s93d4jgbC-Z33kyYh_0N9yKD3bOfpTxHndXsxC1eIWlkUiCSJ38JpHIMChZIFPIm54DrGJeOifYIA-fEBu4mk/s1600/DSC05399.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6hFCwdo3qfyQmtES0G7gJNwictWFC4ZdYFoh5exrX5ApP60Z7vMgsBX0s93d4jgbC-Z33kyYh_0N9yKD3bOfpTxHndXsxC1eIWlkUiCSJ38JpHIMChZIFPIm54DrGJeOifYIA-fEBu4mk/s1600/DSC05399.jpg" height="640" width="530" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the culinary students at Cafe Reconcile helps out </td></tr>
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McDonald's wanted to feature the fresh and wholesome ingredients they use daily for their regular menus served in a local McDonald's near you. They want the message to come across that the fast food they serve is not unhealthy. They have made huge efforts and strides to modify their menus toward a fresh and healthier approach. Magazine editors, social media, television, community members, and bloggers were the invited guests.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmWVoh-olRQ3hlviNnNOf_LYzk0uso4uLS9A3ZnaGa6onQ-gPuOXnVNuhmsOwhcEBenDnQO63hQn1Lhjk8FLhdkkf9jYVJM5f_3Bzjovca0ko2X-bomjS-11wUAI6dFllnlp2zNv00QiD3/s1600/DSC05400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmWVoh-olRQ3hlviNnNOf_LYzk0uso4uLS9A3ZnaGa6onQ-gPuOXnVNuhmsOwhcEBenDnQO63hQn1Lhjk8FLhdkkf9jYVJM5f_3Bzjovca0ko2X-bomjS-11wUAI6dFllnlp2zNv00QiD3/s1600/DSC05400.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I engaged Event Rentals to hang lanterns in the courtyard in our chic colors</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj71Vr9XBmTs4ReOWdEho5kpZa34LfQxTOiv3YoeluTYdxmHtczrlJF-rQA6U8ekfB9l5atRvZGIC0Y-midLnZ48fwXBVwEFV3LSr5-5u_1Z14b1R7BlXlRxlVlyM4CnKbyRsyfZMgE0KFt/s1600/DSC05401.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj71Vr9XBmTs4ReOWdEho5kpZa34LfQxTOiv3YoeluTYdxmHtczrlJF-rQA6U8ekfB9l5atRvZGIC0Y-midLnZ48fwXBVwEFV3LSr5-5u_1Z14b1R7BlXlRxlVlyM4CnKbyRsyfZMgE0KFt/s1600/DSC05401.jpg" height="640" width="572" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The tables are coming together - Smokey lavender Bengaline tablecloths, mercury glass votive candle holder with a Fleur di lis motif, satellite flower arrangements each in a different container, and moss balls to play off the flora and fauna associated with New Orleans</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbWIphMrvQC6nMEciV2V5zY_7pFjX8nousVmufAGbI6X8nkyNBqTxGAZX8Gytc_7nVm6wADCML6glMnOQkEmbWcexfB-mHdSFdwcZPFoJB7PVaWzUefh3Ltx_OC2wCDTS9goSA1_bDfhKa/s1600/DSC05402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbWIphMrvQC6nMEciV2V5zY_7pFjX8nousVmufAGbI6X8nkyNBqTxGAZX8Gytc_7nVm6wADCML6glMnOQkEmbWcexfB-mHdSFdwcZPFoJB7PVaWzUefh3Ltx_OC2wCDTS9goSA1_bDfhKa/s1600/DSC05402.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tina Dixon the catering manager of Cafe Reconcile was a tremendous asset</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfUjvo74ZCm0BaSo1MCGrrxiMyIweEJRnjs8Zjo9BlLuHGxO4ljxsd1MeyeWAt5nmtSRRVYFXyELAuF9-7CbgiVZ3ZYnil_Z1KsyqHCwbaDDfzr1YvelO_dGcDVQCPSGigryGNoOlXy9o0/s1600/DSC05405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfUjvo74ZCm0BaSo1MCGrrxiMyIweEJRnjs8Zjo9BlLuHGxO4ljxsd1MeyeWAt5nmtSRRVYFXyELAuF9-7CbgiVZ3ZYnil_Z1KsyqHCwbaDDfzr1YvelO_dGcDVQCPSGigryGNoOlXy9o0/s1600/DSC05405.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So many great details were added by McDonald's, including this macaroon shaped like a hamburger - McDonald's features macaroons on their everyday menu</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1xbV4pyxLiQz6a5dW67O2gQzHyYcl5jWvw-iyG9D25QpnvsXMSR2p9Xl0Xe-tXoKLOPi_HfF2-TF7fw063hCBiTqvehAKGuiUhG_8ZxFlj3YdnwPrnDji87QBSi6Vg6TC_aVjABvJsR0P/s1600/DSC05406.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1xbV4pyxLiQz6a5dW67O2gQzHyYcl5jWvw-iyG9D25QpnvsXMSR2p9Xl0Xe-tXoKLOPi_HfF2-TF7fw063hCBiTqvehAKGuiUhG_8ZxFlj3YdnwPrnDji87QBSi6Vg6TC_aVjABvJsR0P/s1600/DSC05406.jpg" height="640" width="432" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The chef from McDonald's tying a ribbon on each little box for the macaroons, which were given as a party favor</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR9g_vqAN1if3emwAu26AJ1NiIhWd2qjGqmsKqREv2wZHnYPFXMU3L3myEMAwnhBtRf2HBlranggqbK8ObT8VJHn8aGVo_T7qK6iHWXH7Uvl-KQzkXiYJNe3S27tkJk9dwMi5EUWgG6Q-Y/s1600/essence+MK3.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR9g_vqAN1if3emwAu26AJ1NiIhWd2qjGqmsKqREv2wZHnYPFXMU3L3myEMAwnhBtRf2HBlranggqbK8ObT8VJHn8aGVo_T7qK6iHWXH7Uvl-KQzkXiYJNe3S27tkJk9dwMi5EUWgG6Q-Y/s1600/essence+MK3.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The party favor is in place - How cute is that!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1iSh2c7VsQ0BDR0dd-1LwyDoidn6Vg5BQ35OR4t_ZMuYFc263_r3ARxF-h7Na5XMAxeFCYcpBW_mXbmPmFAiS_BJWmaLQvpkHQwCIxhryO9o72VliGf8GoAGYYJbkSngqYa4tFFa0euVV/s1600/essence+MK.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1iSh2c7VsQ0BDR0dd-1LwyDoidn6Vg5BQ35OR4t_ZMuYFc263_r3ARxF-h7Na5XMAxeFCYcpBW_mXbmPmFAiS_BJWmaLQvpkHQwCIxhryO9o72VliGf8GoAGYYJbkSngqYa4tFFa0euVV/s1600/essence+MK.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Each table had cards stating some fun facts about McDonald's</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Menus are added to the table</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUMS3JnGjljXgXuQG9f1ZMmVx2jLuS-kturIIhyPnEx5iP1W9e_bg5X9I-OMgE5IEllgmM5Tr6HUhADhh1AeIQZmn5Y3L6ZE2OFHHWiY7L6LViIjnIQ138ghmm04m-xAYEA2fKNKvsjHre/s1600/DSC05403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUMS3JnGjljXgXuQG9f1ZMmVx2jLuS-kturIIhyPnEx5iP1W9e_bg5X9I-OMgE5IEllgmM5Tr6HUhADhh1AeIQZmn5Y3L6ZE2OFHHWiY7L6LViIjnIQ138ghmm04m-xAYEA2fKNKvsjHre/s1600/DSC05403.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another detail: The Infused graphics were shown on TV monitors throughout the space</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guests entered from the street into the courtyard for cocktails </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The dining room is set up and ready</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKW2Kh7cxF2WCp6bnDXQsw6b0O7rBMS_BRpsktXidgh6cZmkZiUg9dJ7Ff703RrLXxvoJB789nUV2tdXZwsFT6uPZLeM-26MEEBEFoEqdGfONqfWskdlob4t5H1jjDYtt6j8V8cqJwRU_w/s1600/essence+MKy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKW2Kh7cxF2WCp6bnDXQsw6b0O7rBMS_BRpsktXidgh6cZmkZiUg9dJ7Ff703RrLXxvoJB789nUV2tdXZwsFT6uPZLeM-26MEEBEFoEqdGfONqfWskdlob4t5H1jjDYtt6j8V8cqJwRU_w/s1600/essence+MKy.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I created a gallery wall installed over the "stew" (the area were a hot table with food is usually served)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhelHqT4lT19njaZOLUeggZPkwKFU7JByu5x9puxtJvbTIim5vpmDsG7NBkXTFTSrtSrO4oA24LLiNm35zQ6KJxoekz2zU8v3BX_pHAYHGK46smKFOMVSniJJ3wGrlzU9CIHYFmh2qGXBJk/s1600/DSC05404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhelHqT4lT19njaZOLUeggZPkwKFU7JByu5x9puxtJvbTIim5vpmDsG7NBkXTFTSrtSrO4oA24LLiNm35zQ6KJxoekz2zU8v3BX_pHAYHGK46smKFOMVSniJJ3wGrlzU9CIHYFmh2qGXBJk/s1600/DSC05404.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I printed black and white images of New Orleans interspersed with photos of the food ingredients McDonald's uses</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpVq1mmDHJXDCJo_dQAnFulkAe4idTCpiPvboSWbc_7EAXpoOspBH91YKUwvS3fTHcUrvAE-r1MPs9v774zRB85AY8jFWJJ-UmC9l9Mz_fbDns4xReA2rpmcdn4o5eqgOVezqu9VYMyNef/s1600/IMG_2119.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpVq1mmDHJXDCJo_dQAnFulkAe4idTCpiPvboSWbc_7EAXpoOspBH91YKUwvS3fTHcUrvAE-r1MPs9v774zRB85AY8jFWJJ-UmC9l9Mz_fbDns4xReA2rpmcdn4o5eqgOVezqu9VYMyNef/s1600/IMG_2119.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The images were put into frames - Tip: Do not use the glass that comes with frames for a richer look and print in black and white</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd-HI5BjN3b5O5mlPIXKpOsYNAsoFbZ2eaONtUYvU5n4G9iu2cTq8GNCutNsxaqarKVZQi8dKaFCTyDD501avvnM4_zaVlPbQ45ZAiJoPhCSvW-Fx4krQHNPJRG_5yql71CRc2jKUzVri3/s1600/IMG_2115.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd-HI5BjN3b5O5mlPIXKpOsYNAsoFbZ2eaONtUYvU5n4G9iu2cTq8GNCutNsxaqarKVZQi8dKaFCTyDD501avvnM4_zaVlPbQ45ZAiJoPhCSvW-Fx4krQHNPJRG_5yql71CRc2jKUzVri3/s1600/IMG_2115.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another view of the dining room</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7tUoA0_YDoX-wZOYg6QTZRxTIWxz9GYuGgejZcnsyNm8cn03a2qh3SSbNNAZJymDgvEOvOXFrsKvodnipv8LCnHUgZXLTdcsBuB_cGoq6zseRrTMtGLXd23yha5aRmCTU3gQwc9Wdpw1g/s1600/IMG_2116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7tUoA0_YDoX-wZOYg6QTZRxTIWxz9GYuGgejZcnsyNm8cn03a2qh3SSbNNAZJymDgvEOvOXFrsKvodnipv8LCnHUgZXLTdcsBuB_cGoq6zseRrTMtGLXd23yha5aRmCTU3gQwc9Wdpw1g/s1600/IMG_2116.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view of the courtyard from the balcony above</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDmDHuGGKAj7oGAm_KeuIuIbNvclcXHp_RKioHQ9iu42pNQPbYErFkkeRwUY2uoKYZDTxR1berOObogI_r4aHIZSsfsv-YyuZLnPVYv_VzrduBZOa5EeKjTLbHzrOa5cvZpGTsu640V2Je/s1600/IMG_2117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDmDHuGGKAj7oGAm_KeuIuIbNvclcXHp_RKioHQ9iu42pNQPbYErFkkeRwUY2uoKYZDTxR1berOObogI_r4aHIZSsfsv-YyuZLnPVYv_VzrduBZOa5EeKjTLbHzrOa5cvZpGTsu640V2Je/s1600/IMG_2117.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The courtyard festooned in the Infused colors</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO8nN6agHRKI7MhUAF-L-HDNNWnlRWORck62EpOjCMqdTTTjUDrqFAFMlH8umw_BjYxAr1N8WGjJ6jj1TUQMDJJORADFJBrz7jAF1zijpjDwIZTsZN6SuHzSkaBFWEGyOQ-J5e3aZ5E0CE/s1600/IMG_2124.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO8nN6agHRKI7MhUAF-L-HDNNWnlRWORck62EpOjCMqdTTTjUDrqFAFMlH8umw_BjYxAr1N8WGjJ6jj1TUQMDJJORADFJBrz7jAF1zijpjDwIZTsZN6SuHzSkaBFWEGyOQ-J5e3aZ5E0CE/s1600/IMG_2124.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lavender and chartreuse used in the courtyard; dark metal lanterns were used here as table centerpieces</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9jBrngq8PgBinVMP5-rEvlBRzLvWhujeVYYs1ddyEyIvWMRWZZSJ7lpgbwMpBklMslZlNdnxYuBux3vfyrGLQJH3EAIAJOq1V93FzsnqZxgD0dfM5Shi_L1KV8GghXOB3hsPPsKefOMFh/s1600/IMG_2118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9jBrngq8PgBinVMP5-rEvlBRzLvWhujeVYYs1ddyEyIvWMRWZZSJ7lpgbwMpBklMslZlNdnxYuBux3vfyrGLQJH3EAIAJOq1V93FzsnqZxgD0dfM5Shi_L1KV8GghXOB3hsPPsKefOMFh/s1600/IMG_2118.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sculpture was made by Cafe Reconcile students after Hurricane Katrina to signify the helping hand they get in the program</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg27BxnD_7imy4tFfsWTT80fPqToy9j5fDrzIZ0bCgjVP-uY7XFVakmfXpdVbapkoDBJGe_act3nIsVWxMBntiAAk-kzjetIZgY1kH3ar8YyQeIIdpcvmStUwdf3C7bAYQP80lrKNAChSNe/s1600/IMG_2123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg27BxnD_7imy4tFfsWTT80fPqToy9j5fDrzIZ0bCgjVP-uY7XFVakmfXpdVbapkoDBJGe_act3nIsVWxMBntiAAk-kzjetIZgY1kH3ar8YyQeIIdpcvmStUwdf3C7bAYQP80lrKNAChSNe/s1600/IMG_2123.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Table top detail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRcHZ8YqzF9LYXHLBiKazKv40-UujSLLf-3w_dvwc7h3kth1gZTWxzEGGLTSV-cxE2QgjOeA7wJy1l-e3k8i4pd32DxYSTkYOyVpU_EAplAG0AHJoEAalx_lgD6AG0jit_tuHQBf8xWZr1/s1600/IMG_2125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRcHZ8YqzF9LYXHLBiKazKv40-UujSLLf-3w_dvwc7h3kth1gZTWxzEGGLTSV-cxE2QgjOeA7wJy1l-e3k8i4pd32DxYSTkYOyVpU_EAplAG0AHJoEAalx_lgD6AG0jit_tuHQBf8xWZr1/s1600/IMG_2125.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Table top detail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH5-MEsuxqRPtsqn5fmUsgvve1bh4q9xub7FCoCOwsNh-fSrS43y0N_HEjp5tJLexTBb-PiaXscdQVuKTGm7ePvailpiDu0v_T_oaiuwN75IxLQc0yiJwVQx8bxtiLlgbQhMWHjUXWSrYW/s1600/IMG_2128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH5-MEsuxqRPtsqn5fmUsgvve1bh4q9xub7FCoCOwsNh-fSrS43y0N_HEjp5tJLexTBb-PiaXscdQVuKTGm7ePvailpiDu0v_T_oaiuwN75IxLQc0yiJwVQx8bxtiLlgbQhMWHjUXWSrYW/s1600/IMG_2128.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Table top detail - I arranged the flowers in tight bouquets</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ39R4LwZ-VLt0whano8wD62PdsMjIcl0yjIDIoj2JtpP4-hBYLzaNLc4EBo0mEb3Q58-A14F637zAWlP-9j6rwHml-cJoZTbjPmyrmo45ExmPnGcHTYKTanN3gjtXLGQo8vBivDW7nLPG/s1600/IMG_2129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ39R4LwZ-VLt0whano8wD62PdsMjIcl0yjIDIoj2JtpP4-hBYLzaNLc4EBo0mEb3Q58-A14F637zAWlP-9j6rwHml-cJoZTbjPmyrmo45ExmPnGcHTYKTanN3gjtXLGQo8vBivDW7nLPG/s1600/IMG_2129.jpg" height="640" width="624" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Table top detail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7F9CUjTtJ9jI0kkO1QjC8x0KwW6DqlzdleodBJw5JjYJFk1xXv-q_GLrWdyPkvBiU-OE3PCGOOCyHFYBB7ygXdakbm0SwMxbd3IZ8o_P26iUuBXCJIAnzMIrmt_5v2kcMNuXxSdy3VrLe/s1600/IMG_2121.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7F9CUjTtJ9jI0kkO1QjC8x0KwW6DqlzdleodBJw5JjYJFk1xXv-q_GLrWdyPkvBiU-OE3PCGOOCyHFYBB7ygXdakbm0SwMxbd3IZ8o_P26iUuBXCJIAnzMIrmt_5v2kcMNuXxSdy3VrLe/s1600/IMG_2121.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The menu</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJPoZPmfEEsu9jm7p59i6_Z7ajCh4QKPWewX5AGg3b0z8ZRdISSktCjPKuTxiVzGaMkMxh0EayW0NapVoXr9LBrd-5FJlC5GEQwxAgeTKYHZ9ig6awUMumd4HSjEN43FoyOkxGTvVrXzmd/s1600/MCDONALDS-RECONCILE-NOLA-EMF-2014-IMGM0059-1024x682.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJPoZPmfEEsu9jm7p59i6_Z7ajCh4QKPWewX5AGg3b0z8ZRdISSktCjPKuTxiVzGaMkMxh0EayW0NapVoXr9LBrd-5FJlC5GEQwxAgeTKYHZ9ig6awUMumd4HSjEN43FoyOkxGTvVrXzmd/s1600/MCDONALDS-RECONCILE-NOLA-EMF-2014-IMGM0059-1024x682.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This same young lady who worked all day with me, also worked all night as a server - she is serving the Muffazella salad</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiklUd5KUbgGuXEZTZYSdvPIO_ffaBetz0CSl3gOzHOUNQO5ElHrMBzXd0yPtTMzguUJV3laT1oqIGGpHM92P6UZjxH5z6PzULdzqiFvsZAmOL2wDJlqjsFb_RMJJvcW7-1r9xK8eWGMTl2/s1600/MCDONALDS-RECONCILE-NOLA-EMF-2014-IMGM0124-300x227.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiklUd5KUbgGuXEZTZYSdvPIO_ffaBetz0CSl3gOzHOUNQO5ElHrMBzXd0yPtTMzguUJV3laT1oqIGGpHM92P6UZjxH5z6PzULdzqiFvsZAmOL2wDJlqjsFb_RMJJvcW7-1r9xK8eWGMTl2/s1600/MCDONALDS-RECONCILE-NOLA-EMF-2014-IMGM0124-300x227.jpg" height="484" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a play on Yaka Mein, a very local dish in New Orleans</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeps2mrEO_j0kq3EgMbrXbjDQr9afKqO2DMSbfDdAr6oqsB4HKbqkCiaUpojHvzv6gykmISIT_ydskkH_zoGAh7inojYFAy-BRMtMxIeJRMUamLtPNtDmLAWzt3s1Xf3VorghvlVIndwbO/s1600/MCDONALDS-RECONCILE-NOLA-EMF-2014-IMGM0172-1024x682.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeps2mrEO_j0kq3EgMbrXbjDQr9afKqO2DMSbfDdAr6oqsB4HKbqkCiaUpojHvzv6gykmISIT_ydskkH_zoGAh7inojYFAy-BRMtMxIeJRMUamLtPNtDmLAWzt3s1Xf3VorghvlVIndwbO/s1600/MCDONALDS-RECONCILE-NOLA-EMF-2014-IMGM0172-1024x682.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blackened fish fillet (the same fish served daily at McDonald's) with fire roasted grits</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2FqZL-D0OjscGdMwEvViszAs6zpD1Lj9CG9tZLyWSQ_z1VFobMow_9swCGKSPw5LXxHoLXcwJSUwE1cY3DMrYJRmjJi4mPSnBcpxFLXp7clN1syMtjgY4wHqoX1hjYolGQHtkOykSKMiQ/s1600/MCDONALDS-RECONCILE-NOLA-EMF-2014-IMGM0203-1024x682.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2FqZL-D0OjscGdMwEvViszAs6zpD1Lj9CG9tZLyWSQ_z1VFobMow_9swCGKSPw5LXxHoLXcwJSUwE1cY3DMrYJRmjJi4mPSnBcpxFLXp7clN1syMtjgY4wHqoX1hjYolGQHtkOykSKMiQ/s1600/MCDONALDS-RECONCILE-NOLA-EMF-2014-IMGM0203-1024x682.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lemon Ice box cakes were made from the lemon cookies McDonald's serves daily</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2onHMMY1G1d09ae7qAujzIHK-5Mb0xJl4E3DuMDPHtUViy1RpI5v9y4SbtFE4626uGXfRtgBUjMhARG6FdxNxm5DTmV68iOr__Yfdh4AZ7dWnxnBPjFYYKBoH_V5r7F8j6E_pIwnMZodN/s1600/MCDONALDS-RECONCILE-NOLA-EMF-2014-IMGM00311-1024x682.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2onHMMY1G1d09ae7qAujzIHK-5Mb0xJl4E3DuMDPHtUViy1RpI5v9y4SbtFE4626uGXfRtgBUjMhARG6FdxNxm5DTmV68iOr__Yfdh4AZ7dWnxnBPjFYYKBoH_V5r7F8j6E_pIwnMZodN/s1600/MCDONALDS-RECONCILE-NOLA-EMF-2014-IMGM00311-1024x682.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Cajun fries served during cocktail hour </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I loved doing this project, and I hope you enjoyed seeing a bit of the process.</span></div>
The Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-46754574800769968782014-07-25T11:04:00.001-05:002014-07-25T11:06:02.914-05:00Orange IS The New Black<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>"Orange
offers emotional strength in difficult times. It helps us to bounce
back from disappointments and despair, assisting in recovery from grief."</i></div>
<i></i><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><i>"The
color orange radiates warmth and happiness, combining the physical
energy and stimulation of red with the cheerfulness of yellow. Orange relates to 'gut reaction' or our gut instincts, as opposed to
the physical reaction of red or the mental reaction of yellow.</i>" from <a href="http://www.empower-yourself-with-color-psychology.com/color-orange.html">Color Psychology</a></i></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnTzkbloKmtQu_FCcrbhAWCQC70oLVb9lz3LdzWmSXrmG-7pe00MNZj65PjKGJnQGEUjQUh1NEkiQ0cZgnqMCiKrHhh_o1upKukNRq6Zm_5dbghDHZ23pM3_362nqjK5vKvbr2okJyLuW8/s1600/orange+is+the+new+black+valorie+hart+LR.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnTzkbloKmtQu_FCcrbhAWCQC70oLVb9lz3LdzWmSXrmG-7pe00MNZj65PjKGJnQGEUjQUh1NEkiQ0cZgnqMCiKrHhh_o1upKukNRq6Zm_5dbghDHZ23pM3_362nqjK5vKvbr2okJyLuW8/s1600/orange+is+the+new+black+valorie+hart+LR.png" height="438" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My living room - Orange "helps us to bounce
back from disappointments and despair, assisting in recovery from grief."</td></tr>
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I have always loved the color orange from soft apricots, to a clear clean orange, to neon, to muted harvest oranges...well you get the picture. It is perfect to use in any dose you choose, from an accent color up to the main event. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvFXOgbYZkjoHrZ8xOPf5RRanOUHxJ_Xsr5FRSOLo19OT6IIPmLVL3ekI2m5DhTghHy6KsWX12RQ3kLcfE_pj29QhLuueqkKjRmwTnldhLjZ8SdU1KGkDAZxotstr6OTX2Kcuszw_26lto/s1600/orange+throw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvFXOgbYZkjoHrZ8xOPf5RRanOUHxJ_Xsr5FRSOLo19OT6IIPmLVL3ekI2m5DhTghHy6KsWX12RQ3kLcfE_pj29QhLuueqkKjRmwTnldhLjZ8SdU1KGkDAZxotstr6OTX2Kcuszw_26lto/s1600/orange+throw.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Use an orange throw if you just want a little accent of it</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifDaSyCSRWvnlLZrus03UuVSvLgwq5ocRSLiqCS7SV3aPgfc8zKH-bN7q7XuDslbWBp21KTH9UNFB4_AVQ-av6ehX1BAJJqcfgrFvb5_98LRbgpCQDkoPM3gLM2xAPmXIGmJv1djycmgmc/s1600/orange+is+the+new+black+valorie+hart+BR.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifDaSyCSRWvnlLZrus03UuVSvLgwq5ocRSLiqCS7SV3aPgfc8zKH-bN7q7XuDslbWBp21KTH9UNFB4_AVQ-av6ehX1BAJJqcfgrFvb5_98LRbgpCQDkoPM3gLM2xAPmXIGmJv1djycmgmc/s1600/orange+is+the+new+black+valorie+hart+BR.png" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I use orange in my bedroom as an accent color</td></tr>
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I did a product pick on Houzz that made it to the Houzz home page and it struck a chord. I posted a ton of cute affordable stuff in orange. Go check it out,<a href="http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/28827620/list/Guest-Picks--Keep-Your-Eyes-Peeled-for-Orange"> Keep Your Eyes Peeled for Orange.</a></div>
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Here are some images to get you going with orange. <span style="font-size: large;">If you are an orange lover, tell us how you use it!</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQmKuNEGwA3zfQSPG8_LuO9lfhWKx1D0_N1U7sK3qYTNdUzeqlv4hEcE9AQty2TftIEfKuGvrteq8jNiAzNe7cZwfXDIUZdz29KcngCLRthUhHJGnKiHgGmSshvH0qemlU9f4TQrJgyIn-/s1600/orange+trad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQmKuNEGwA3zfQSPG8_LuO9lfhWKx1D0_N1U7sK3qYTNdUzeqlv4hEcE9AQty2TftIEfKuGvrteq8jNiAzNe7cZwfXDIUZdz29KcngCLRthUhHJGnKiHgGmSshvH0qemlU9f4TQrJgyIn-/s1600/orange+trad.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very pretty and trad use of orange in a bedroom, and some vintage elements mixed in</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTTCUW4v-UFGLhsifuX7wV9J1T-0PapD2d1IfWD_FQFfGwkmlNNvRCRDavmhmFUY8Enx8T-aayek-8c7lj5BMx75nKb7zrjnYWr_t0Q2rnHRQGnN8qmSQ1fmFlHb6MCVc0eTrM8cmFilCf/s1600/orange+porch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTTCUW4v-UFGLhsifuX7wV9J1T-0PapD2d1IfWD_FQFfGwkmlNNvRCRDavmhmFUY8Enx8T-aayek-8c7lj5BMx75nKb7zrjnYWr_t0Q2rnHRQGnN8qmSQ1fmFlHb6MCVc0eTrM8cmFilCf/s1600/orange+porch.jpg" height="640" width="448" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I am so doing this color block idea next time I paint a chair</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi35wOE6G5o7J3HNKKDnnRmkH4rdl9npgQaKbn6RW83YSJUF8X7UriyJH5HHzfdzfO8qRSO-3Mc8fJrfEK0wcTPKsSNyYmFjfOzNmyuIP-vFtf3s5b6wowC6BTUb2fw8RvkS4z4XaMw45T8/s1600/orange+mod.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi35wOE6G5o7J3HNKKDnnRmkH4rdl9npgQaKbn6RW83YSJUF8X7UriyJH5HHzfdzfO8qRSO-3Mc8fJrfEK0wcTPKsSNyYmFjfOzNmyuIP-vFtf3s5b6wowC6BTUb2fw8RvkS4z4XaMw45T8/s1600/orange+mod.jpg" height="552" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mod, retro, Mid Century Modern is where orange rules!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_XXqxPAwcTx51-8LnkZQXTfOn6SBDOnMCd3TL0cPkZFsnkyHqomRI0UUouKCnW34piC8Lg7J1ApF7_YtX_zIxKZRVF41ddR9IXD7dL0MnGK8cMZxy5GU2P0hauPHBUce9VocJBVDGu0mj/s1600/orange+is+the+new+black+valorie+hart+interior+design.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_XXqxPAwcTx51-8LnkZQXTfOn6SBDOnMCd3TL0cPkZFsnkyHqomRI0UUouKCnW34piC8Lg7J1ApF7_YtX_zIxKZRVF41ddR9IXD7dL0MnGK8cMZxy5GU2P0hauPHBUce9VocJBVDGu0mj/s1600/orange+is+the+new+black+valorie+hart+interior+design.png" height="448" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orange taffeta drapes look wonderful - I tell you where to buy affordable ones at<a href="http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/28827620/list/Guest-Picks--Keep-Your-Eyes-Peeled-for-Orange"> Houzz</a> - this is a room I did for a client</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTM4v51bR84C0b7zdZkNtmBb1kA15VQId0U5_Z1JyJ_VU2S0eGRWOS1NelJuZ_qxVxb0vBj3Unvd6YG8LjykYzuHpLBOw4yWKGGwT-Yu80r9QpY0TtAhDwmZEF_WmkdItdCyPCXuOp5dAw/s1600/orange+BR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTM4v51bR84C0b7zdZkNtmBb1kA15VQId0U5_Z1JyJ_VU2S0eGRWOS1NelJuZ_qxVxb0vBj3Unvd6YG8LjykYzuHpLBOw4yWKGGwT-Yu80r9QpY0TtAhDwmZEF_WmkdItdCyPCXuOp5dAw/s1600/orange+BR.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The softest of oranges in this bedroom</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO7gOqPXc-c_jdwAV-lKoiUCYToKYPa9qXlPmfuw0eLDWx446taO_Dt_Wgwy92HXartqkMpZFq48ObHj9fxrc0Z5ztf6vP7Di_Q53VQKygaZ6vQrrJ_VEDQGPw6xsfD-nfHNdQRl38hVeg/s1600/orange+drapes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO7gOqPXc-c_jdwAV-lKoiUCYToKYPa9qXlPmfuw0eLDWx446taO_Dt_Wgwy92HXartqkMpZFq48ObHj9fxrc0Z5ztf6vP7Di_Q53VQKygaZ6vQrrJ_VEDQGPw6xsfD-nfHNdQRl38hVeg/s1600/orange+drapes.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orange drapes in a contemporary room with a mix of antiques and modern art</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7V_aEmEjB6Z_GjU87lKS3ULKp-9oDiyKY5ND0MAPGDowPoZfQsVaKMJ_HykF0CFxFedBsAU-Bs4zlMnnbJ9pTS6pHXog2TQBC0YxmJoGmV4_fQ9zLkAx9WNUB1hJChiI8LTFZbtd7N_hd/s1600/orange+goth+headboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7V_aEmEjB6Z_GjU87lKS3ULKp-9oDiyKY5ND0MAPGDowPoZfQsVaKMJ_HykF0CFxFedBsAU-Bs4zlMnnbJ9pTS6pHXog2TQBC0YxmJoGmV4_fQ9zLkAx9WNUB1hJChiI8LTFZbtd7N_hd/s1600/orange+goth+headboard.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pop in an orange lamp or bedding or toss pillows - go to <a href="http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/28827620/list/Guest-Picks--Keep-Your-Eyes-Peeled-for-Orange">Houzz </a>to see some I found for you</td></tr>
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The Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-44140890140353021472014-06-30T11:22:00.000-05:002014-06-30T11:29:55.403-05:00Pools, Porches, PatiosSummer is here in full force. New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles has devoted their whole current issue to Summer. This is our local shelter magazine, and I think many of you would love to get it, so go ahead and<a href="http://www.myneworleans.com/My-New-Orleans/Our-Magazines/"> <span style="font-size: large;">subscribe.</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> </span>Locals can pick it up around town, at Helm Paint, Le Blvd., and other places that sell home furnishings.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_LyqTpE3KxT_G0OYg0tQY0HoG6e3GhUu6xtsWHiDOpfr_M0cHsiCfykNdmzedUX0KoGrdL-N2ZwwuwB2pzSxlqSYhzrkjqsfxQMllzhrMAaGlkBj7AJBQxeLKgK89ErWLXAhf21dZrRF-/s1600/a998882eb7fbab48f7564a25e0b689be.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_LyqTpE3KxT_G0OYg0tQY0HoG6e3GhUu6xtsWHiDOpfr_M0cHsiCfykNdmzedUX0KoGrdL-N2ZwwuwB2pzSxlqSYhzrkjqsfxQMllzhrMAaGlkBj7AJBQxeLKgK89ErWLXAhf21dZrRF-/s1600/a998882eb7fbab48f7564a25e0b689be.jpg" height="640" width="474" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.saraessexbradley.com/">Sara Essex Bradley</a> and I had a blast shooting this story. Nine or so homes were scouted, and a lot of them made the final editorial cut. My aim in producing this story was to show the wide gamut of how people decorate their outdoor spaces, and as usual the people in New Orleans have a very distinct, and I think beautiful and exciting viewpoint.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS-2-YMv94IuWJJ5GJHFpAc8-YiQr_OLf3qzqoL7dTmUdVS4Gj7XieDhJAMd855O7tUT8r8DKhtd49EJ1RXeP0r-URoYI-BpkFLQRoYNAamIslP1gGkGiowAhwmHKFKxrr0PU6QGmaj-vp/s1600/Palumbo-9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS-2-YMv94IuWJJ5GJHFpAc8-YiQr_OLf3qzqoL7dTmUdVS4Gj7XieDhJAMd855O7tUT8r8DKhtd49EJ1RXeP0r-URoYI-BpkFLQRoYNAamIslP1gGkGiowAhwmHKFKxrr0PU6QGmaj-vp/s1600/Palumbo-9.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elegance - this incredible spa setting is in New Orleans</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGtefDLRAEk9U15kFuFL5b1cgWqv-Mbp9Z8K-4O7aJKCbbWjhRaL_CYBG02YZw9psRYGUO6pXchTGZapBSOl3rBmlRclIcrnGedRCxUOY9d0O9QaaLZnW7lddaZiMzxOOLQLNhBCbiqDJV/s1600/MirandaPatio-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGtefDLRAEk9U15kFuFL5b1cgWqv-Mbp9Z8K-4O7aJKCbbWjhRaL_CYBG02YZw9psRYGUO6pXchTGZapBSOl3rBmlRclIcrnGedRCxUOY9d0O9QaaLZnW7lddaZiMzxOOLQLNhBCbiqDJV/s1600/MirandaPatio-10.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sleeping porch in New Orleans</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0D9MCimCAXKFPSL3-MlzEw1P1P10P6cEN3zHbjzcNcd8is8pbZ2VRtQV9mTADhWSvcx9IYyGHgBiMRLBFF1hyphenhyphenUGgeMgejxwixe59dOh0YPq0ctQu1M0fC4nraa5Jv8YHm6o4SM5nUdphA/s1600/SummerHouse_Frischhertz_porch_FOR+PPP+STORY--2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0D9MCimCAXKFPSL3-MlzEw1P1P10P6cEN3zHbjzcNcd8is8pbZ2VRtQV9mTADhWSvcx9IYyGHgBiMRLBFF1hyphenhyphenUGgeMgejxwixe59dOh0YPq0ctQu1M0fC4nraa5Jv8YHm6o4SM5nUdphA/s1600/SummerHouse_Frischhertz_porch_FOR+PPP+STORY--2.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A classic front porch in New Orleans</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQDprJ61Gcc3Op8lL1ngYha2wog1Yvq_YXZUBEMyQfhKw0rAeH7NyM_B5zu_X6SjLEPayw3I7kgfS8JPu6EgSQgJkanU8TGzZnKADsNUpVjTP5SuL65mo1zG2JtYiUbguofFhZEFUuYD1y/s1600/Exposition.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQDprJ61Gcc3Op8lL1ngYha2wog1Yvq_YXZUBEMyQfhKw0rAeH7NyM_B5zu_X6SjLEPayw3I7kgfS8JPu6EgSQgJkanU8TGzZnKADsNUpVjTP5SuL65mo1zG2JtYiUbguofFhZEFUuYD1y/s1600/Exposition.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A front porch with a twist - classic white wicker with Trina Turk fabric on the cushions</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCi5HN7E9mCZhkIJQZ7WUzbENn-T9hWn1TDyU_I160r1InJ-r8A7gMMqOQJKDIu264kFZKGdWrPUoSikVwNIICozfQi9Iko-cATfFl-2-gAaRujwhaLMIEAB_GN4sWjx3kg19YfpF5gmZJ/s1600/ValoriePatio-8(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCi5HN7E9mCZhkIJQZ7WUzbENn-T9hWn1TDyU_I160r1InJ-r8A7gMMqOQJKDIu264kFZKGdWrPUoSikVwNIICozfQi9Iko-cATfFl-2-gAaRujwhaLMIEAB_GN4sWjx3kg19YfpF5gmZJ/s1600/ValoriePatio-8(1).jpg" height="640" width="536" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My patio - indoors is outdoors in my own quirky way - My majolica plate collection has moved outdoors, and the cushions were recovered in Chinoiserie toile (an outdoor fabric by Waverly)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWLdTaYhpP_my9CqX5hgZgw_kKC0Xs7cwQBR45bdOYDuHd_K6MJQBtKueb6L5qad9nQDC9dY8DGlO9NGNS6rCJ8mitRS1qgiXQNvUjLdWxlFz5cNBQOrhX_-77hU8emy_oZK9M0R5P-rQH/s1600/HarmonyStPatio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWLdTaYhpP_my9CqX5hgZgw_kKC0Xs7cwQBR45bdOYDuHd_K6MJQBtKueb6L5qad9nQDC9dY8DGlO9NGNS6rCJ8mitRS1qgiXQNvUjLdWxlFz5cNBQOrhX_-77hU8emy_oZK9M0R5P-rQH/s1600/HarmonyStPatio.jpg" height="640" width="582" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of old brick floors are in many New Orleans courtyards - Can you tell how much Sara and I love to have the family dog (or cat) in the shot - I say it makes a space more human</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyQVlznb3eLOK_RvBlSCvntAeIC0ygCjUWwfdtGYDmDRBBRsZOk-Z1k4rbpIpL212wf8d8dZK1Uohyphenhyphenu-5I8GPP0PCoiGWWDDhVUi7PqWZvey1d-P5iBIVNhAHjMNiD2CT9xzA7zoFKrUz6/s1600/Mitchell-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyQVlznb3eLOK_RvBlSCvntAeIC0ygCjUWwfdtGYDmDRBBRsZOk-Z1k4rbpIpL212wf8d8dZK1Uohyphenhyphenu-5I8GPP0PCoiGWWDDhVUi7PqWZvey1d-P5iBIVNhAHjMNiD2CT9xzA7zoFKrUz6/s1600/Mitchell-3.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fabulous funky party time patio in New Orleans</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpjkSyiICvsh20p2MDdHrPjMLEmqoau2dDzUX0nE-X2YuXAVZBHTuUvAcq4zMvm7SUGJMXgSgvYQBcyyb5xchfFueWilTZKevMav5257FAYv1tSQCTrgOCmleK2VhR511SCn9Y0_TQUbED/s1600/MirandaPatio-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpjkSyiICvsh20p2MDdHrPjMLEmqoau2dDzUX0nE-X2YuXAVZBHTuUvAcq4zMvm7SUGJMXgSgvYQBcyyb5xchfFueWilTZKevMav5257FAYv1tSQCTrgOCmleK2VhR511SCn9Y0_TQUbED/s1600/MirandaPatio-8.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I styled an alfresco dining table in New Orleans with the home owners bunny rabbits</td></tr>
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You can go online to see more <a href="http://www.myneworleans.com/New-Orleans-Homes-Lifestyles/Summer-2014/Backyard-Bliss/"><span style="font-size: large;">New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles, "Backyard Bliss". </span></a><br />
But really you need to go get the magazine and see the gorgeous full size photos. We have an awesome art director and editor! <a href="http://www.myneworleans.com/New-Orleans-Homes-Lifestyles/Summer-2014/Backyard-Bliss/"><br /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">What have you done new this year for your pool, porch, patio, (balcony)?</span>The Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983290104483224615.post-76901288101339084742014-06-18T11:10:00.000-05:002014-06-19T08:44:34.707-05:00An Interview With Pam Pierce Of MILIEU Magazine<br />
<a href="http://www.ppiercedesigns.com/">Pam Pierce</a> has been a favorite designer not only in real life, but here in blog land. <a href="http://cotedetexas.blogspot.com/2011/02/pamela-pierce-designed-house.html">Joni Webb of Cote de Texas </a>has done many wonderful posts about this Houston based decorator. I think those posts launched a thousand pale linen slipcovers with deep drop ruffle skirts. I have loved Pam since I first saw her own kitchen featured in a magazine, especially the antique cow head hanging there. I tried to do my own version of it in my kitchen with a <a href="http://www.straydogdesigns.com/products/detail/ferdinand/all">Stray Dog Design hot pink papier mache bull head,</a> but alas it did not work. I also love the way Pam uses antiques and traditional elements in a very modern and refined way. That girl has an excellent eye and skill for editing a room,<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz4EQo80Gxc9H6xlQGMTQrDmXxq8R0LxvANqOpWNtlUd4gMdmcOkhDg1EhjL_f4mcGR8bqrFwpx7hijC4qB1Z4AEv-C_hQv3xCx-GvLs3apKcgjvZHTfIds6CuKzmjoZSDWBsBBD81pAJ0/s1600/Pam+Pierce+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz4EQo80Gxc9H6xlQGMTQrDmXxq8R0LxvANqOpWNtlUd4gMdmcOkhDg1EhjL_f4mcGR8bqrFwpx7hijC4qB1Z4AEv-C_hQv3xCx-GvLs3apKcgjvZHTfIds6CuKzmjoZSDWBsBBD81pAJ0/s1600/Pam+Pierce+1.png" height="440" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pam Pierce made linen slipcovers with ruffles modern and chic - photo by Peter Vitale</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNa9f7OGm2mX6c4SB_KMFhaGvUmDeSyLRDRwtZd_T_8RIjDMYW81-AhL3kgAR2ziYnaErQy5zKB7tNX6ANkQduKi1GoazG2T566KlMxvgEKPAYIaTj905t4gSrKdEMR57g8jZSwgpeqXOx/s1600/Pam+Pierce+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNa9f7OGm2mX6c4SB_KMFhaGvUmDeSyLRDRwtZd_T_8RIjDMYW81-AhL3kgAR2ziYnaErQy5zKB7tNX6ANkQduKi1GoazG2T566KlMxvgEKPAYIaTj905t4gSrKdEMR57g8jZSwgpeqXOx/s1600/Pam+Pierce+2.png" height="490" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love this Pam Pierce kitchen - so many rustic antique elements that look modern and refined - photo by Peter Vitale</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6IgknB7MRYtZRHLaKXPrd7PQVjTZT-gZ4DbKZWixLNF8oMkpgbsNd5cwrT85mrhS7eXDNxmtz8IYhlLWbbH67DgbRLBQr1mlgdzuULW1ntixLrWhvD9kTIEXxglinXAufkrpiiRiUZFN6/s1600/Pam+Pierce+3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6IgknB7MRYtZRHLaKXPrd7PQVjTZT-gZ4DbKZWixLNF8oMkpgbsNd5cwrT85mrhS7eXDNxmtz8IYhlLWbbH67DgbRLBQr1mlgdzuULW1ntixLrWhvD9kTIEXxglinXAufkrpiiRiUZFN6/s1600/Pam+Pierce+3.png" height="640" width="534" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I know many of you have this image of Pam Pierce's kitchen on your blog or Pinterest board - photo by Stephen Karlisch</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpmfBZUUhw46dThc7x4nj5rYlPg35HEts7QMCCmsUkS5N5H1YROk0oV_MMqIpyL0QkQnEwWtEenUvkQ0OW5mz_5BgqJCwWn2wOt413MwUyqfVAnN1-kyR6VOF5QXGLFrCPYl_kIdUAlTWl/s1600/Pam+Pierce+4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpmfBZUUhw46dThc7x4nj5rYlPg35HEts7QMCCmsUkS5N5H1YROk0oV_MMqIpyL0QkQnEwWtEenUvkQ0OW5mz_5BgqJCwWn2wOt413MwUyqfVAnN1-kyR6VOF5QXGLFrCPYl_kIdUAlTWl/s1600/Pam+Pierce+4.png" height="640" width="448" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love this Saarinen table with an antique chair and this pink curved banquette in a room done by Pam Pierce - photo by Peter Vitale</td></tr>
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But I digress. This post is about the fabulous new magazine<a href="https://www.milieu-mag.com/"> MILIEU</a> that Pam has started. I believe in supporting things in print, buying actual books, and subscribing to shelter magazines. Sure I love the vast visual web of the Web: Blogs, Facebook, Pinterest, Houzz, and all the rest of it. You can go down the rabbit hole of looking at images for hours on your computer, that can turn into days. But there is nothing like spending time leafing through a magazine, or reading a book you hold in your hands.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjbt9CMeUALyfYI0Vajn_qa55Jizot8qQCBAue7chWpmNIbjXWIDJxdxVwFqHeLXK27DVgydQuG8TAIbwnyBZAtP7K7WRdXRTancH-TZxcTH3cANKNX87Wojkuex7qioT6DwgXB-uP3e1Q/s1600/29QNA1-articleLarge-v3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjbt9CMeUALyfYI0Vajn_qa55Jizot8qQCBAue7chWpmNIbjXWIDJxdxVwFqHeLXK27DVgydQuG8TAIbwnyBZAtP7K7WRdXRTancH-TZxcTH3cANKNX87Wojkuex7qioT6DwgXB-uP3e1Q/s1600/29QNA1-articleLarge-v3.jpg" height="452" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pam Pierce in The New York Times</td></tr>
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So when <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/29/garden/a-new-home-decor-magazine-but-why.html?_r=0">MILIEU was announced in The New York Times, </a>I instantly subscribed. I loved the magazine as soon as I held it in my hands. It is so interesting and fabulous to have a designer steering the ship. Pam has had her work appear in many magazines, so she is a veteran of photo shoots, and looking for editorial content. Her eye is impeccable, and the large format in MILIEU is a dream for all of us visual vamps.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr-A7T1uNND8CsHHtcaC9psi7XKhOlo-e5cNPsiFPw151NEslaeihbpWQxA1tXug8qXfUkFKXEPkIWxfxv8R13H5ZEQYJx-VCHbjYDSIl06noWV-1gNJ7hmcsU2FaX9IaFgi-iRABj5CHQ/s1600/MilieuPhoto3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr-A7T1uNND8CsHHtcaC9psi7XKhOlo-e5cNPsiFPw151NEslaeihbpWQxA1tXug8qXfUkFKXEPkIWxfxv8R13H5ZEQYJx-VCHbjYDSIl06noWV-1gNJ7hmcsU2FaX9IaFgi-iRABj5CHQ/s1600/MilieuPhoto3.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Designer Shannon Bowers in MILIEU- photo by Peter Vitale - You know I love the <a href="http://thevisualvamp.blogspot.com/2011/03/dining-room-reveal-part-3-new-orleans_8906.html">Mouille chandelier!</a></td></tr>
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The gorgeous photography, is often done by Pam's long time collaborator <a href="http://petervitalephotography.com/">Peter Vitale</a> (who is Editor at Large for MILIEU). Pam chooses to use full pages to show a space. It is a visual palette cleanser compared to all the layouts that favor many tiny images on a page.<br />
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Spoiler alert. I know Peter Vitale. He and I worked together in New York, I as I stylist for him. So I have been a fan of his for many, many years. Spoiler alert. I recently met Pam Pierce here in New Orleans. And clutch your pearls, she was here with Peter to shoot one of my design projects that is going to be featured in the Fall issue of MILIEU! So my dear wonderful vamp readers, <a href="https://www.milieu-mag.com/Common/Subscription">subscribe today to MILIEU!</a> I would say subscribe anyway because it is a gorgeous magazine, but now really subscribe so you can please cheer me on!<br />
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Pam was not only a delight to work with, but she was a wellspring of inspiration for me. It was great to see her in action. I put myself in the role of stylist for her and Peter, and we had a wonderful time shooting together. She shared so much with me, and encouraged me in a generous mentor like way. Even though we are close in age, I feel very much her junior in regards to interior design. She has thirty years under her belt, compared to my five. Yes, I made the jump from many years of event design and styling to interior decorating and design just five short years ago.<br />
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The shoot was good for me. With Alberto gone my confidence has been shaken. The shoot was planned before he died, and he was so proud and so excited for me. I am getting to the other side of it, and having Pam and Peter, and his assistant Harry around me was a tremendous uptick in this whole process of grief. While we were all together, I asked Pam if I could do a short interview with her for the blog....<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4nSg7XCDkINRhNGkViISb4fJlsGXHMXB6AQw_-vDpZTwM_BoCRt2uxmY1NFaKmfw5EuPPmsZOudJVeYHDxJq1_3lHafJCGQK-JZ2WDDtFc-cv0AgYuhIqexYwWsd0BkCvKAlxjm45NN24/s1600/MilieuPhoto1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4nSg7XCDkINRhNGkViISb4fJlsGXHMXB6AQw_-vDpZTwM_BoCRt2uxmY1NFaKmfw5EuPPmsZOudJVeYHDxJq1_3lHafJCGQK-JZ2WDDtFc-cv0AgYuhIqexYwWsd0BkCvKAlxjm45NN24/s1600/MilieuPhoto1.jpg" height="640" width="492" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love this cover! </td></tr>
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VV - You are a successful well-known interior designer based in Houston, with an amazing career that spans 30 years. Why are you doing a national in-print shelter magazine now?</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Pam -<i>Yes, I worked in interior design for over 30 years, and do love it. It truly is my passion. I decided to start MILIEU because I was ready for a new challenge. Magazines have always appealed to me, and sadly, many of the shelter publications that I loved were shutting down. From my perspective as a designer, I felt we needed a new shelter magazine that kept in mind my goal of finding the best and most exciting talent there is to offer.</i></span><br />
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VV - Your own design work has appeared in Veranda many times which features many beautiful homes in the South that have a particular refined traditional style. What I love about Milieu is that you expand on that point of view. What attracts you to a home you want to feature in Milieu? <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Pam - <i>When choosing a home to feature, the only thing I look for is basic, exciting, and good design – no matter the style.</i></span><br />
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VV - In a recent issue you used a model on the cover, very much like a great fashion magazine would. I think this is exciting and revolutionary for a shelter magazine. What was the thought process for that cover?<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Pam - <i>As we all know, in every issue of a magazine, there are many photos that are considered before making the final decision. I have come to realize that when you see a certain shot, you just know it’s meant to be. There was really no specific thought process involved – I just knew it had that “wow” factor. That’s what I think all magazines ultimately want – for people to walk up to the newsstand, or receive their copy in the mail, and to get excited as soon as they see that cover. Another thing to take into account is that we here at MILIEU do not have a strict set of rules that we follow (laughs).</i> </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihVBZzktZ0OGyUJUefdMdOZ7y-cE6JCdxdC4LenTepENKZUf_m4Fg0pZLCtxkY2SsJP_RYZCWg_I_zhVLT6haa2Zm6QcV_208PZF2MgYYBR9nCVp6ITRGl8ArlV_qv40vdNxiXU8puRlA2/s1600/MilieuPhoto5.jpg"></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzAuQs__NOEiELmjwN9uZVRJPDl7SX-qNVFA6_8iO1YsA3oYO3FtCrKR8oCaA5_5OoFpGdqtl6BkyAbBTRdvOb69P8e6TJeS_f2M8azZxEmvl6KfV1Npwt2dUGbj1wVsnk4ETxjSldYXXs/s1600/MilieuPhoto5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzAuQs__NOEiELmjwN9uZVRJPDl7SX-qNVFA6_8iO1YsA3oYO3FtCrKR8oCaA5_5OoFpGdqtl6BkyAbBTRdvOb69P8e6TJeS_f2M8azZxEmvl6KfV1Npwt2dUGbj1wVsnk4ETxjSldYXXs/s1600/MilieuPhoto5.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pam says, "...we here at MILIEU do not have a strict set of rules..." - photo by Maxine Helfman</td></tr>
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VV - You and I are in the same age group, and it seems like our generation is living long enough to have second and even third act careers. What would you tell people who are considering re-inventing their working life? No one wants to retire anymore, even if the have the money to do so. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqCrKWIIJemyvSKP6Q_ftlXNEDinyoy6wrifrCIxNEyVeEchoujWbJlUqjwIu2-N1wEEJIuWLLawRlkiKcoVMWnlJa5FZb_xP6ca9eswah2HJjVXid8YP_wdA3vhcQLmbhqHXNd-YWEOYL/s1600/MilieuPhoto2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqCrKWIIJemyvSKP6Q_ftlXNEDinyoy6wrifrCIxNEyVeEchoujWbJlUqjwIu2-N1wEEJIuWLLawRlkiKcoVMWnlJa5FZb_xP6ca9eswah2HJjVXid8YP_wdA3vhcQLmbhqHXNd-YWEOYL/s1600/MilieuPhoto2.jpg" height="624" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bedroom in a Belgian home where the owners who designed it want to be Anon - Love the the color! - photo by Claude Smekens</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Pam - <i>I just say – Find your passion. If you would like to retire and do whatever makes you happy, that’s exactly what you should do. It just wasn’t for me. Many of my friends have retired and have second homes, but I decided that MILIEU would be my second home. I love to work, and this has been an exciting time in my life. I get the opportunity to travel, visit new places, and meet wonderful people – the homeowners and designers that turn a house into a home. I can’t think of a better way to spend my days. </i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i> One of the highlights of this journey has been to meet you, Valorie, and to get to shoot one of your fabulous/stunning/marvelous projects that will be featured in our Fall (anniversary) issue.</i> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Valorie here, I hope you love all the images I posted, and enjoyed the interview with Pam. Check out her web site <a href="http://www.ppiercedesigns.com/">Pierce Designs and Associates</a> and spend some time looking at her body of work, and go to <a href="mailto:cotedetexas@aol.com">Cote de Texas</a> for some in depth posts about Pam as only Joni can do them. And of course run don't walk to get MILIEU.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFP_ULGZDfiRNBN1vVO8BaAJ4wvGUlZoXDkDW9m4q6VkeFazMxYwWNCVi0MSexy_b6ekrIq8ZGXQo1_HyWTKs38ovkPC9On6NI8gBnNrmTzpEUhTbj2JzaQ-HPoVLDY6tsjxkyV3ZmDrFe/s1600/MilieuPhoto4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFP_ULGZDfiRNBN1vVO8BaAJ4wvGUlZoXDkDW9m4q6VkeFazMxYwWNCVi0MSexy_b6ekrIq8ZGXQo1_HyWTKs38ovkPC9On6NI8gBnNrmTzpEUhTbj2JzaQ-HPoVLDY6tsjxkyV3ZmDrFe/s1600/MilieuPhoto4.jpg" height="640" width="556" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Designer Ladye Kay Allen in MILIEU - photo by Peter Vitale</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">You know you want to subscribe to <a href="https://www.milieu-mag.com/">MILIEU! </a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Do it today!</span>The Visual Vamphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211905673157732404noreply@blogger.com9