Lunch in Milan

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ubarba.it/u_barba_osteria_genovese_milano/O_files/U%20Barba-000869.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ubarba.it/u_barba_osteria_genovese_milano/O_files/U%20Barba-000869.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Next time I am lunching in Milan (which would be the first time), I will be sure to stop in on<i> <a href="http://ubarba.it/u_barba_osteria_genovese_milano/O.html">U Barba</a>. </i>With its warehouse feel and industrial furniture, I'm sure I will feel right at home:) <i></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TTU5qTKLPmI/AAAAAAAAGIQ/n9WhNtLMx6s/s1600/U+Barba-000910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TTU5qTKLPmI/AAAAAAAAGIQ/n9WhNtLMx6s/s1600/U+Barba-000910.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TTU5tnKQsaI/AAAAAAAAGIU/u3YrhuvvufM/s1600/_MG_5988UBarba.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TTU5tnKQsaI/AAAAAAAAGIU/u3YrhuvvufM/s1600/_MG_5988UBarba.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TTU5x9qLpSI/AAAAAAAAGIY/_zfWQCQ0xBU/s1600/U+Barba-000894.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/TTU5x9qLpSI/AAAAAAAAGIY/_zfWQCQ0xBU/s1600/U+Barba-000894.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">via <i><a href="http://frenchbydesign.blogspot.com/">French by Design</a></i></div><div style="text-align: center;">P.S. I'm really loving this blog too!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>

Lunch in Milan

Next time I am lunching in Milan (which would be the first time), I will be sure to stop in on   U Barba . With its warehouse feel and indus...

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Look Up!

<div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwQMeh8S39I/AAAAAAAAFl8/HppDchBoJNY/s1600/Picture+13.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405459171398311890" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwQMeh8S39I/AAAAAAAAFl8/HppDchBoJNY/s800/Picture+13.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 593px; height: 593px;" /></a><a href="http://yatzer.com/2014_ara_pizza_by_pablo_tellez"><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:78%;" >(Found via Yatzer)</span></a><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;">Commercial spaces are such a great place to get design inspiration. They are often very bold and adventurous. One of my favorite things in commercial spaces is the attention given to ceilings. No boring white planes of emptiness!</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">This beautiful Spanish restaurant does an amazing job of making the most of the large expanse above.</span> <span style="font-size:85%;">Its interesting how subtle the rest of the decor is. The intricate angles of the ceiling are such a focal point, the space doesn't need much else. Love it!</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwQMeBRxDmI/AAAAAAAAFl0/LYxCce_rTBo/s1600/Picture+15.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405459162630000226" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwQMeBRxDmI/AAAAAAAAFl0/LYxCce_rTBo/s800/Picture+15.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 598px; height: 598px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">I realize most of us can't tear down our ceilings and build an entire new shape, but there can still be a lot done. How about at least painting them a more interesting color than white? Also, add details like antique looking medallions coupled with modern light fixtures. That's a personal favorite! </span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwQMd-jFphI/AAAAAAAAFls/mVeftBt9j80/s1600/Picture+14.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405459161897346578" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SwQMd-jFphI/AAAAAAAAFls/mVeftBt9j80/s800/Picture+14.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 604px; height: 717px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">One more thing! I'm crazy about the hand drawn pictures on the restroom doors. Doors as art? Who knew?</span><br /></div>

Look Up!

(Found via Yatzer) Commercial spaces are such a great place to get design inspiration. They are often very bold and adventurous. One of my f...

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The Blogger's Dilemma

<div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SqhY3LDalyI/AAAAAAAAFak/NFzKmcsYBbM/s1600-h/Picture+5.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379647459777222434" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SqhY3LDalyI/AAAAAAAAFak/NFzKmcsYBbM/s800/Picture+5.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 634px; height: 472px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Hey, I'm finally back! Yesterday was a complicated day for this blogger. First, I couldn't post pictures. I'm pretty sure it was a Blogger problem, but I'm not certain. Second, when I was finally able to post photos, I couldn't find the sites I needed to link too! I sat looking through my computer for almost two hours, searching and searching! I finally gave up in disgust and thought, "I'm going to have to start over in the morning". So this morning, as I looked at the photos again, I couldn't bring myself to delete them. So here is the dilemma. I know its protocal to always give sources and links, but could y'all forgive me for not sharing these with you? I mean come on!</span><br /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SqhY2Vk03KI/AAAAAAAAFac/Rm-PVfXc_to/s1600-h/Picture+4.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379647445421841570" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SqhY2Vk03KI/AAAAAAAAFac/Rm-PVfXc_to/s800/Picture+4.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 630px; height: 472px;" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SqhY1ulLwsI/AAAAAAAAFaU/TCLYrmbatHQ/s1600-h/Picture+3.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379647434954359490" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SqhY1ulLwsI/AAAAAAAAFaU/TCLYrmbatHQ/s800/Picture+3.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 582px; height: 659px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">So, I'm throwing myself at the mercy of the blogosphere that I may be forgiven for posting these without credit.<br />I really racked my brain to remember where they came from. All I remember is that this is a restaurant in Hong Kong...it blows me away! Soooo gorgeous!</span><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SqhY1J_kiTI/AAAAAAAAFaM/-pfVVRpy8W4/s1600-h/Picture+2.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379647425132923186" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SqhY1J_kiTI/AAAAAAAAFaM/-pfVVRpy8W4/s800/Picture+2.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 630px; height: 429px;" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SqhYkmBFpLI/AAAAAAAAFaE/x83qEAu1Vi0/s1600-h/Picture+1.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379647140597703858" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SqhYkmBFpLI/AAAAAAAAFaE/x83qEAu1Vi0/s800/Picture+1.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 610px; height: 670px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Well, I hope you enjoy these. If anyone has an idea of their source, please let me know. Now, on with your Thursday:)</span><br /></div>

The Blogger's Dilemma

Hey, I'm finally back! Yesterday was a complicated day for this blogger. First, I couldn't post pictures. I'm pretty sure it was...

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A Warm Hotel And A Cool Cafe.

<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE-XPzxyVI/AAAAAAAADpI/TjXmQhMwbmM/s1600-h/Santa+Fe+023.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247043609964955986" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE-XPzxyVI/AAAAAAAADpI/TjXmQhMwbmM/s800/Santa+Fe+023.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 588px; height: 392px;" /></a>I'm so excited about sharing photos of our Santa Fe hotel. It was such a wonderful place, Mark and I fell in love with it. It is called <a href="http://www.oldsantafeinn.com/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Old Santa Fe Inn</span></a> and is only blocks from the town square. Most of the time we were there we would just walk to wherever we wanted to go...if you have ever tried finding parking in Santa Fe, you know how awesome that is.<br /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE-XX8be8I/AAAAAAAADpQ/0N-avDDNKnU/s1600-h/Santa+Fe+025.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247043612148726722" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE-XX8be8I/AAAAAAAADpQ/0N-avDDNKnU/s800/Santa+Fe+025.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 436px; height: 629px;" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE-XXH3e0I/AAAAAAAADpY/yxBCnkcrcL4/s1600-h/Santa+Fe+026.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247043611928263490" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE-XXH3e0I/AAAAAAAADpY/yxBCnkcrcL4/s800/Santa+Fe+026.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 439px; height: 651px;" /></a>(Lobby)<br />The hotel is not very large, but it has gorgeous rooms and an inviting dining area with killer complimentary breakfast.<br /></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE-XnelXLI/AAAAAAAADpg/k7sCygOt9x0/s1600-h/Santa+Fe+027.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247043616318512306" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE-XnelXLI/AAAAAAAADpg/k7sCygOt9x0/s800/Santa+Fe+027.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 448px; height: 664px;" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE-X_vMymI/AAAAAAAADpo/5hixbwFOMmk/s1600-h/Santa+Fe+028.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247043622830656098" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE-X_vMymI/AAAAAAAADpo/5hixbwFOMmk/s800/Santa+Fe+028.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 587px; height: 391px;" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE_ZsjQwVI/AAAAAAAADpw/15ACBX0gNYM/s1600-h/Santa+Fe+029.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247044751551676754" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE_ZsjQwVI/AAAAAAAADpw/15ACBX0gNYM/s800/Santa+Fe+029.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 454px; height: 677px;" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE_aL12oTI/AAAAAAAADqI/GGnS1sUDZvM/s1600-h/Santa+Fe+021.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247044759951155506" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE_aL12oTI/AAAAAAAADqI/GGnS1sUDZvM/s800/Santa+Fe+021.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 461px; height: 684px;" /></a>Our room was on the second floor. We went in a door from the first floor and were greeted with this beautiful staircase. (Sorry again for the dark pictures). I was already prepared to spend all my time on the benches places around the exterior of the hotel.<br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE_Z7MH1aI/AAAAAAAADqA/1NH3INyeq_s/s1600-h/Santa+Fe+020.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247044755481154978" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE_Z7MH1aI/AAAAAAAADqA/1NH3INyeq_s/s800/Santa+Fe+020.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 590px; height: 395px;" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE_ZngSRpI/AAAAAAAADp4/5NDRflSGMx4/s1600-h/Santa+Fe+012.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247044750197016210" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE_ZngSRpI/AAAAAAAADp4/5NDRflSGMx4/s800/Santa+Fe+012.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 590px; height: 395px;" /></a>(View from our room)<br />Being able to walk everywhere was so fun, because it allowed us to see things we miss when driving. While walking around we stumbled upon a cool cafe called<a href="http://www.santafestation.com/cowgirl/index.html"><span style="font-style: italic;"> Cowgirl BBQ</span></a>. The majority of seating is outside, with a funky decor. It seemed to not be very "touristy", I think it was more of a place where locals go; including some <span style="font-style: italic;">Very </span>interesting characters. Of course, interesting characters are plentiful in Santa Fe.<br /></div><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE9hcFNZmI/AAAAAAAADoo/j9wX1Usphn4/s1600-h/Santa+Fe+013.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247042685546358370" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE9hcFNZmI/AAAAAAAADoo/j9wX1Usphn4/s800/Santa+Fe+013.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 587px; height: 391px;" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE9h9cAN_I/AAAAAAAADow/SmtdxiLerg4/s1600-h/Santa+Fe+016.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247042694500333554" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE9h9cAN_I/AAAAAAAADow/SmtdxiLerg4/s800/Santa+Fe+016.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 435px; height: 649px;" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE9iA8Ip0I/AAAAAAAADo4/v-CoU6DsMM0/s1600-h/Santa+Fe+017.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247042695440410434" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE9iA8Ip0I/AAAAAAAADo4/v-CoU6DsMM0/s800/Santa+Fe+017.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 586px; height: 391px;" /></a>This antique car front-end was just one of a series, placed on the roof of the cafe. They overlooked the patio, and their head lights would turn on as soon as it got dark. Liam found that to be very, very cool.<br /></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE9iSZe9UI/AAAAAAAADpA/eZthiKhpYSI/s1600-h/Santa+Fe+018.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247042700126909762" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SNE9iSZe9UI/AAAAAAAADpA/eZthiKhpYSI/s800/Santa+Fe+018.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 442px; height: 657px;" /></a>

A Warm Hotel And A Cool Cafe.

I'm so excited about sharing photos of our Santa Fe hotel. It was such a wonderful place, Mark and I fell in love with it. It is called ...

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Will We Ever Go Home Again...EVER?

<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SM7LOkS6wVI/AAAAAAAADns/EVE4p8hi3KU/s1600-h/Santa+Fe+005.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246354067054838098" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SM7LOkS6wVI/AAAAAAAADns/EVE4p8hi3KU/s800/Santa+Fe+005.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 593px; height: 397px;" /></a>Well, folks I am officially at the start of my <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">3rd</span> week away from home!! Many of you know about the devastating hurricane that hit Houston, and that most of the city has no power. Some people have no water either. Of course, those are the fortunate ones. So many people have lost much more than that. By the grace of God, my family and I were very far away when everything happened and for now we will continue to stay away. Luckily, we had someone check on our house and it didn't receive any damage. (Just no power). I've been in touch with <a href="http://paloma81.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Paloma</span></a> and <a href="http://stashstudios.com/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Cheryl,</span></a> and know they are fine. I haven't personally heard from <a href="http://cotedetexas.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Joni</span>,</a> but I think she has power. I'm still waiting to hear from the other Houston bloggers, though. I really want to thank all of you for your prayers and kind words. I will try to keep updates on whatever I can.<br />In the meantime, I decided to share some photos from our Santa Fe trip. The first day, we walked over to the to the Santa Fe train depot. This of course is a favorite of Liam's. Last year we took a ride on the vintage train and he had so much fun. Unfortunately, this year we arrived on a Tuesday, and found out you can only ride it Fri. through Sun. Nooo!!<br /></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SM7LO26lqJI/AAAAAAAADn0/QdIN1w-BEhE/s1600-h/Santa+Fe+006.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246354072053065874" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SM7LO26lqJI/AAAAAAAADn0/QdIN1w-BEhE/s800/Santa+Fe+006.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 618px; height: 412px;" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SM7LPWh4kkI/AAAAAAAADn8/u9WRkn3rqOI/s1600-h/Santa+Fe+004.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246354080539382338" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SM7LPWh4kkI/AAAAAAAADn8/u9WRkn3rqOI/s800/Santa+Fe+004.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 617px; height: 411px;" /></a>To my surprise, Liam was satisfied with just running around on the the cars. (I don't have my photo editing program, so the photos are a little dark). Directly next door there is the cutest cafe that I totally fell in love with. A lot of the time when I say "I love" a cafe or restaurant its because of the decor first...food second. I'm glad to say that the food was good too.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SM7LPqHN6bI/AAAAAAAADoE/kDp5BBVAEVk/s1600-h/Santa+Fe+008.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246354085796243890" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SM7LPqHN6bI/AAAAAAAADoE/kDp5BBVAEVk/s800/Santa+Fe+008.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 503px; height: 750px;" /></a>I love the skylights and the amazing mirror behind the bar. Most of the walls were either in a dark green or covered with brick. I think one of my favorite details was the white marble on the counters, because it seemed to glow. Very lovely. It was one of those places, I would move into right away, if only they would let me. As much as I liked this place, I forgot what it is called. Bad blogger!! I am disappointed in myself, but if anyone is visiting Santa Fe, it is right next door to the train station.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SM7LP7UCFZI/AAAAAAAADoM/O1a0Q48zEXo/s1600-h/Santa+Fe+010.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246354090413397394" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SM7LP7UCFZI/AAAAAAAADoM/O1a0Q48zEXo/s800/Santa+Fe+010.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 743px;" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SM7LZj7Aa1I/AAAAAAAADoU/H_7D4F-lAfs/s1600-h/Santa+Fe+009.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246354255933107026" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SM7LZj7Aa1I/AAAAAAAADoU/H_7D4F-lAfs/s800/Santa+Fe+009.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 617px; height: 412px;" /></a>The rare voluntary photo of myself with Liam. I'm holding him like this because he wouldn't sit still. It took about 6 or 7 shots to get this one of his face. I think I'm not so much "holding him" as I am holding him down.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Many more photos to come!</span><br /></div>

Will We Ever Go Home Again...EVER?

Well, folks I am officially at the start of my 3rd week away from home!! Many of you know about the devastating hurricane that hit Houston,...

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Shoreditch House in East London

<a href="http://bp0.blogger.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SHJR_71FeZI/AAAAAAAACPc/MB_UD8H0BVc/s1600-h/Picture+65.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220325076909783442" src="http://bp0.blogger.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SHJR_71FeZI/AAAAAAAACPc/MB_UD8H0BVc/s800/Picture+65.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 629px; height: 415px;" /></a><br /><a href="http://bp3.blogger.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SHJR_NF7QUI/AAAAAAAACPM/kRh-TPMHmC8/s1600-h/Picture+62.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220325064363950402" src="http://bp3.blogger.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SHJR_NF7QUI/AAAAAAAACPM/kRh-TPMHmC8/s800/Picture+62.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 601px; height: 809px;" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://bp0.blogger.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SHJR_STL_KI/AAAAAAAACPU/stVUZGDO3Tk/s1600-h/Picture+63.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220325065761750178" src="http://bp0.blogger.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SHJR_STL_KI/AAAAAAAACPU/stVUZGDO3Tk/s800/Picture+63.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 637px; height: 418px;" /></a><a href="http://bp1.blogger.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SHLRexjuWwI/AAAAAAAACPk/nBKBo-78xUw/s1600-h/Picture+24.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220465244705282818" src="http://bp1.blogger.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SHLRexjuWwI/AAAAAAAACPk/nBKBo-78xUw/s800/Picture+24.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 636px; height: 647px;" /></a>This amazing <a href="http://www.shoreditchhouse.com/launch.html#1***1"><span style="font-style: italic;">private member's club</span></a> in East London was designed by <a href="http://www.tomdixon.net/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Tom Dixon</span></a>. I wonder what kind of fees they have, because I would gladly pay to see this place.I found this via an amazing site called <a href="http://www.yatzer.com/postDetails.php?post=1139"><span style="font-style: italic;">Yatzer</span></a>.<br /><br /></div>

Shoreditch House in East London

This amazing private member's club in East London was designed by Tom Dixon . I wonder what kind of fees they have, because I would gla...

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Bella Italia Weine/Germany

<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://bp0.blogger.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SHLT21r1vsI/AAAAAAAACPs/RRbvv9iw6qc/s1600-h/Picture+58.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220467857153179330" src="http://bp0.blogger.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/SHLT21r1vsI/AAAAAAAACPs/RRbvv9iw6qc/s800/Picture+58.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 567px; height: 760px;" /></a>I couldn't resist one more image from<a href="http://www.yatzer.com/postDetails.php?post=1141"><span style="font-style: italic;"> Yatzer</span></a>. An Italian winery in Germany uses an extreme optical illusion to expand the space. Although, the mirror effect is pretty extreme, I think it could be used on a smaller scale; to expand any small space.<br /></div>

Bella Italia Weine/Germany

I couldn't resist one more image from Yatzer . An Italian winery in Germany uses an extreme optical illusion to expand the space. Altho...

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They Did It Again...

<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R_2G5UptAyI/AAAAAAAABcw/CEy_CvcxkQU/s1600-h/Picture+75.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5187450665154970402" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R_2G5UptAyI/AAAAAAAABcw/CEy_CvcxkQU/s800/Picture+75.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 343px; height: 531px;" /></a>Ian and Steven of <a href="http://phorm-design-life.blogspot.com/2008/04/main-beach-deli.html"><span style="font-style: italic;">Phorm Interiors</span></a>, have completed the design of another awesome deli. Check it out on there <a href="http://phorm-design-life.blogspot.com/2008/04/main-beach-deli.html"><span style="font-style: italic;">blog</span></a>. I wished I at least lived in the same continent, so I could visit :(<br /></div>

They Did It Again...

Ian and Steven of Phorm Interiors , have completed the design of another awesome deli. Check it out on there blog . I wished I at least live...

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Phorm Interiors

<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R6KlU4-4nJI/AAAAAAAAAoE/bKU00rO2KTQ/s1600-h/Picture+16.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span style="display: block;" id="formatbar_Buttons"><span class="on" style="display: block;" id="formatbar_CreateLink" title="Link" onmouseover="ButtonHoverOn(this);" onmouseout="ButtonHoverOff(this);" onmouseup="" onmousedown="CheckFormatting(event);FormatbarButton('richeditorframe', this, 8);ButtonMouseDown(this);"></span></span><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5161869901232118930" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R6KlU4-4nJI/AAAAAAAAAoE/bKU00rO2KTQ/s800/Picture+16.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a>Before the weekend begins, I want to show the work of Australian designers Ian Wrightson and Steven Stewart of <span style="font-style: italic;"><a href="http://www.phorminteriorproducts.com/">Phorm Interiors.</a> </span>I first discovered their blog <a href="http://phorm-design-life.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Phorm Design Life</span></a> and was fascinated with their work. We have exchanged a couple of emails, and can say they are very gracious, besides being talented.<br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R6KmLY-4nKI/AAAAAAAAAoM/qF97elOU8A8/s1600-h/phorm+design.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5161870837534989474" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R6KmLY-4nKI/AAAAAAAAAoM/qF97elOU8A8/s800/phorm+design.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R6KmLo-4nLI/AAAAAAAAAoU/b-Qowi3R_YE/s1600-h/Picture+18.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5161870841829956786" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R6KmLo-4nLI/AAAAAAAAAoU/b-Qowi3R_YE/s800/Picture+18.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a>I would love to spend an afternoon at this colorful cafe.<br /></div><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R6KmL4-4nMI/AAAAAAAAAoc/a85gRLquH3A/s1600-h/Picture+12.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5161870846124924098" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R6KmL4-4nMI/AAAAAAAAAoc/a85gRLquH3A/s800/Picture+12.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R6KmMI-4nNI/AAAAAAAAAok/rLv0hchlCwE/s1600-h/phorm+design2.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5161870850419891410" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R6KmMI-4nNI/AAAAAAAAAok/rLv0hchlCwE/s800/phorm+design2.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R6KmMY-4nOI/AAAAAAAAAos/rzqDNKpt-tw/s1600-h/Picture+14.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5161870854714858722" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R6KmMY-4nOI/AAAAAAAAAos/rzqDNKpt-tw/s800/Picture+14.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a>Anyone who knows me can probably guess why I am so attracted to this home...texture and juxtaposition of objects. Great job guys! <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R6Km44-4nPI/AAAAAAAAAo0/6fpAmMCMG_Y/s1600-h/Picture+15.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5161871619219037426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R6Km44-4nPI/AAAAAAAAAo0/6fpAmMCMG_Y/s800/Picture+15.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a></div>

Phorm Interiors

Before the weekend begins, I want to show the work of Australian designers Ian Wrightson and Steven Stewart of Phorm Interiors. I first dis...

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Flikr Find-Camilla E.

<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R3_miTjS5hI/AAAAAAAAAWs/gdh1lKrtXzY/s1600-h/Chocolat+Cafe.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5152089975773390354" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R3_miTjS5hI/AAAAAAAAAWs/gdh1lKrtXzY/s400/Chocolat+Cafe.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a>Strolling through the blog universe yesterday, I stumbled upon <a href="http://camillaengman.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Camilla Engman's</span></a> blog and <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/morran/sets/72157600018240519/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Flikr</span></a> site. Camilla's sites journal her work, home and travels. Above is a picture titled "<span>Chocolate Bar</span>". I don't know anything else about it, except that it looks and sounds like a place I need to be.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R3_mijjS5iI/AAAAAAAAAW0/LE3K-_ITI6A/s1600-h/Camilla-chair.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5152089980068357666" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R3_mijjS5iI/AAAAAAAAAW0/LE3K-_ITI6A/s400/Camilla-chair.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a>In "<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/morran/sets/72157600018240519/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Corner's of my Home</span></a>" Camilla shares pics of her stylish and relaxing home. Even the dog is highly fashionable! This home has such a beautiful color palette...very soothing, yet fun.<br /></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R3_mizjS5jI/AAAAAAAAAW8/6tiGDLaE1Z0/s1600-h/Camilla-sofa.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5152089984363324978" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R3_mizjS5jI/AAAAAAAAAW8/6tiGDLaE1Z0/s400/Camilla-sofa.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R3_mjDjS5kI/AAAAAAAAAXE/TJz3KxqNhRE/s1600-h/Camilla7.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5152089988658292290" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R3_mjDjS5kI/AAAAAAAAAXE/TJz3KxqNhRE/s400/Camilla7.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a>I also collected pics of Camilla's work on my NEW blog. Its called "<a href="http://carolinarandomthoughts.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Carolina's Random Thoughts.</span></a>" I think the title says it all, basically any crazy thing that pops into my head, I will post there. I'm planning on posting my personal random photos, artists, music, ....etc. Check it out, if you would like.<br /></div>

Flikr Find-Camilla E.

Strolling through the blog universe yesterday, I stumbled upon Camilla Engman's blog and Flikr site. Camilla's sites journal her w...

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Jaime Hayon-La Terraza del Casino

<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R3v3fDjS5YI/AAAAAAAAAVo/eZ647NpP9wk/s1600-h/hayon4.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5150982711729644930" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R3v3fDjS5YI/AAAAAAAAAVo/eZ647NpP9wk/s400/hayon4.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><a href="http://www.hayonstudio.com/home.php"><span style="font-style: italic;">Jaime Hayon</span></a> is a Spanish designer who can really be called a "Renaissance man". His recent redesign of La Terraza del Casino restaurant, in Madrid, embodies his talent for bringing art into interior design. I love the artistic touches, such as the figure sitting on the edge of the small wall cabinet, and the placement of dishes on the ceiling.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R3v3dzjS5WI/AAAAAAAAAVY/NRmMIUFAV9o/s1600-h/Hayon3.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5150982690254808418" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R3v3dzjS5WI/AAAAAAAAAVY/NRmMIUFAV9o/s400/Hayon3.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><a href="http://www.hayonstudio.com/home.php"><span style="font-style: italic;">Hayon</span></a> doesn't restrict his creativity to just interiors, he designs everything from furniture, <span style="font-style: italic;"><a href="http://www.aqhayoncollection.com/index_eng.htm">bath fixtures</a>,</span> toys, and artistic installations. Admittedly, his look is probably not for everyone, but I love his exuberance and whimsy. Like his fellow Spaniards, <a href="http://www.picasso.fr/anglais/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Picasso</span></a> and <a href="http://www.greatbuildings.com/architects/Antoni_Gaudi.html"><span style="font-style: italic;">Gaudi</span></a>, Hayon's designs are not hindered by strict functionality.<br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R3v3fjjS5ZI/AAAAAAAAAVw/zI_1HH8PYRA/s1600-h/Hayon.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5150982720319579538" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gt7eA_0QKPA/R3v3fjjS5ZI/AAAAAAAAAVw/zI_1HH8PYRA/s400/Hayon.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a>

Jaime Hayon-La Terraza del Casino

Jaime Hayon is a Spanish designer who can really be called a "Renaissance man". His recent redesign of La Terraza del Casino rest...

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