rustic + gray and white.

i am loving this image of gray and white tones with a touch of rustic elements.  exactly the colors and the vibe i am dreaming for our master bathroom.  which, is the next room in our home that will be getting a mini-makeover.

{image via pinterest}

inspired: wooden doormat

 {image via martha stewart}

when i saw this colorful wooden doormat here and here, i immediately pinned it as an upcoming project of mine. and so, over the weekend, i decided it was time to spruce up the entrance of our home and make my own wooden doormat.

my wooden slats were slightly longer than the directions called for so i asked jeff to drill 3 holes instead of just two into each piece. and, because i love white, i decided to paint mine white.  however, after painting it white, i did distress it a little with a darker glaze and some sandpaper.  from start to finish it only took me a few hours to complete and i absolutely love the way it turned out.

you can find the complete directions here if you'd like to make one too!

inspired: homemade snickers.

i am seriously making these homemade snicker bars one day soon. maybe even for jeff for valentines day.  just in case you are tempted like me, the recipe and how-to can be found here.

{image via how sweet it is}

inspired: stencil a pillow.

i think this will be a upcoming weekend project. i found the supplies and directions for this pillow at  wit & whistle. what a great idea.

{image via wit & whistle}

especially when i saw this stenciled pillow at vivaterra for $159. at that price, i definitely prefer to make my own and customize it with a favorite quote of mine too.  wouldn't you?

{image via vivaterra}

inspiring.

found it here.

rue magazine.

if you haven't seen or heard of rue magazine,
i urge you to check it out.

grab a cup tea or coffee and indulge in the beauty of great design and the ultimate of stylish living. the creators and designers, who are also bloggers, have done a fabulous job!

i definitely have found a new magazine to gush over!
the premiere issue is online today.

be inspired.

this poster is a reminder to embrace the freshness of today.
be happy. be positive.


(via theloveshop)

dreamy cottage.

i applaud those who follow their dreams and can make them a reality. when i came across this quaint little cottage, i fell in love. an old hunting cabin turned into a dreamy retreat in the woods. it is absolutely darling. you can read the whole story here or visit the owner's shabby chic blog.

i can only dream that someday jeff and i will have our own little cottage by the shore. i hope you had a happy weekend. (maybe, you dreamed a little too!)

photos via elementsofstyleblog.... thank you for sharing!

just a reminder.

print available at Studio Mela

unexpected inspiration.

I love finding a little unexpected inspiration.

A simple cup of tea at Caribou Coffee.... it gave me a moment to reflect, think... and smile.