I am probably the only person who actually sets up a room in order to decide what the finishing factors should be.
​What I have concluded is 1.) Need to Paint the walls. 2.) Closet "Nap room" needs to be wallpapered. and 3.) (to my surprise) the wood cabinets need either complete replacement or the doors need to be swapped out with fabric doors? I really thought I would love them white, but they are not quite as i imagined. i thought it would feel "cottage-y" but it just feels like 70's wood panel cabinets painted white... which is what they are. I kind of regret painting and wish I had wall papered and decorated before making the choice. 

When we purchased our new home we had a major vintage project - a studio apartment/in-law suite that we immediately knew would be our homeschool room. Since we would rather put our money into things that our children can learn form and educational items we decided to place a $500 budget on the room. Also, this room would function as the sleepover room for kids and guests. we already had a heavy stock of homeschool items we brought from our previous home so as far as crafts, kits, supplies, books, oct was concerned - we already had enough for 10 years and 30 plus students! 

My game plan was to do a little at a time and see how the room would evolve itself.  I knew a large portion of our small budget would be used to cover up a date 70's vinyl floor.  Carpeting would be pretty cheap, but I loved the idea of rolling up an area rug and letting the kids paint without worry! So our first purchase was a 9x12 rug from RugsUSA. 

I purchased the striped matters for short change online at Walmart.com. I simply folded it in half tied with twine and now we use it as a deep, comfy chair for reading books or researching with the iPad. When sleep overs happen we just unit and its a large day bed sized sleep. Might I add, given the very low price tag; its rather cozy.

The seagrass rocking chairs I already owned and had gotten them at Ikea - see "Our little Boys Rooms" for more on them. The pillows are various vintage throw pillows I have collected over the years. 

I paid 20 bucks for the craved antique table and this set up is a great kids, low-to-the-floor perfect lounge spot. Boxes are filled with puzzles, blocks, crafts, and more. The rocks i purchased from at a thrift shop that received them from a well-educated, "retired" collector who one too many rocks. 

I got these Awesome hand painted, individually and crafted glass knobs at Anthropologie - the biggest disappointment was gently opening the draw and it breaking. Only held onto the screw with glue - my husband will be repairing one of these guys already. But for the impact they have; I cant say they are a total disappointment. Plus, they were on clearance and I got them for 20% off $2.95  (even less reason to complain). 

I just finished the storage on the built in shelves today and its a great place to house things like acrylic paints, paper goods, and the art brushes cabby. Plus some extra rocks and a pricey box filled with various essential oils for teaching about plants, balm making, and candle making, etc. 

The wall paper was left over from our little boys bedroom. It was really the Perfect touch to the room!  Part of a larger wall mural called Enchanted Forest by Rebecca Rebouche. ​

Those yellow counter tops I wasn't a fan of, well... I love them now. The soft yellow looks pretty and what i quickly realized was they were easy to scrape off any "extra" paint, glue, glitter, and other messes that arose from our boys crafts. they are great. 

I used vintage lace curtains that are held up with Anthropologie's puffy tacks. And the old fashion brass turn display lets whimsical tea cups shine. 

Everyone's favorite room, hands down is the closet turned "Nap Spot". We had a huge 6 foot wide by 12 foot long closet that fits a roll away bed and little vintage tall shelf (hidden behind the antique doily tablecloth is learning books that my little one grabs constantly  to then read and nestled in the bed. 

Believe me the picture does this nook no justice. Its a plush cozy bed covered in layers of faux fur blankets, vintage quilts and a 50s silk comforter. Hanging above head is Salvato Collection's hand made boats and glitter starts that light up - transforming this to the most magical play spot day or night. 

Well, I hope you like how it's coming out so far. We know we have lots more work to do, but if you ask my boys they will say not to change a thing. They think it's perfect! Seeing them create, explore, learn and love this room is so worth all the work. We truly are fortunate, blessed, and happy to be in the perfect home for us. 

For years now, Salvato Collection has sold Handmade from Vintage items. Our newest are full of that inner child and whimsy we are best known for. Not only are there hand crafted party crowns made from the most luxurious hand painted vintage wallpaper and silk ribbon; now you can check out our papier-mâché  boats made from vintage textiles, threads and ribbons. They go perfect wth vintage clothes pin and thread pirate people. Only available via email/ private purchase for a limited time. Contact: info@salvatocollection.com

Thanks to some incredible friends, this very busy mom of 2, had breakfast handed to her this morning. Our friends gave gifts of homemade cakes, goodies, jellies and honey. Even the former owner of our new home stopped by ad blessed us with the most scrumptious home made short bread,  linzer  torte (a 'vintage' cake. for more on that; keep scrolling). She included very delicious treats, like lovely orange tea and honey from her friends personal bee hive farm.
Our entire breakfast take was made up of local harvested or crafted goodies or ones straight from Europe. I had a real 'homestead' New England morning. Even our eggnog was locally made and organic. 

Though I do not have Elizabeth's recipe. I thought I would share one I found online, in case you were curious about its ingredients. 
​

TOTAL TIME: Prep: 25 min. + chilling Bake: 40 min. 
MAKES: 16 servings
Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups ground hazelnuts
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• Dash ground cloves
• 1 cup cold butter, cubed
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon grated lemon peel
• 1-1/3 cups seedless raspberry jam
• Confectioners' sugar, optional

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the first seven ingredients. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add eggs and lemon peel; stir until mixture forms a ball. Divide into fourths. Cover and refrigerate for 3-4 hours or until chilled. 
2. Remove two portions of dough from refrigerator; press each into an ungreased 9-in. fluted tart pan with removable bottom. Spread 2/3 cup jam over each.
3. Between two sheets of lightly floured waxed paper, roll one portion of remaining dough into a 10-in. x 6-in. rectangle. Cut six 1-in.-wide strips; arrange in a lattice design over jam. Repeat with remaining dough (return dough to the refrigerator if needed). 
4. Bake at 350° for 40-45 minutes or until bubbly and crust is browned. Cool completely. Dust with confectioners' sugar if desired.Yield: 2 tortes (8 servings each). 

Nutritional Facts1 serving (1 each) equals 343 calories, 18 g fat (8 g saturated fat), 57 mg cholesterol, 145 mg sodium, 44 g carbohydrate, 1 g fiber, 4 g protein. 

from original author. 

My dear sweet darling always loves celebrating the holidays, there is not one part he dreads, Except for the moments when I insist he dress in formal wear. Considering he is most commonly found in and most comfortable in, a good solid pair of Ralph Lauren jeans and a heavy cotton T-shirt (usually Black Dog- go New Englander's), this is the guy who avoids a suit. Raised on the ocean front, a true born Cape Codder, who is most comfortable being comfortable. This year he has allowed (with a bit of coy and charming...and loads of begging and pleading) me to pick out his outfit. How nice! Know what's nicer - with even MORE begging and pleading, he will wear whatever you, our stylish fans, Vote for Him To Wear.

So comment below --- Wonderland Tie or Clip-On Bow Tie?

​MORE FUN!
To be fair to him the 1950's thin cotton collared shirt, both ties and vest are being listed for sale. If the voted outfit is bought, he gets to wear a T-shirt to the Christmas Holiday Play. He has been banned from buying any of these things himself, because he is also very clever indeed. So, that means, if you want to buy any of these items for your special man, just click the box with the items name in it. . ​​  

The influence of my children has made my pure white Christmases blend with reds and blues and whimsical toy ornaments. Fire trucks and police cars might not be the instinctual elegance I seek, but boy do I love seeing the expression of myself and my life in my decor. I love the nature, the story, the fairy tale and childish humor. 

I mixed red rose garland along side other garden influences like silk  magnolias, roses, and peony garlands. My christmas tree is a lot glass bulbs with pops pf boho chic hand made characters and animals. I love the woodland feel and all the bird ornaments. I always decorate in nature inspired decor, so the holidays are no different. They look excellent along side grandmas vintage inspired pieces and even 70's Santa ornaments. 

The hand blown glass Pug and vintage dolls add character to the beauty of 1940's, Japan Made, West Germany and a whole mixture of glass, mercury, and hand painted bulbs. Good News? We only broke 3 so far this year. Here si to Merry, Here is to Happy, Here is to Celebrating in the style that speaks to your personality. ​

Keep the library in its white and sea-shell influenced tone; we added a lot of authentic and live plants. The garland was assembled beautifully and costa a fraction of the remade plastic ones. Plus, the smell of all the wood book cases and natural pine, makes the room so cozy. We look forward to playing games and getting a cozy fire going. 

So I get asked often, the common question, 'Where do you get it?" Here are some of my top places to seek creative and fun Holiday Loves!

a- ​Antique Shops! All year these owners collect little trinkets to display for their shop and sell to you. Some rare and lovely pieces can be gathered up, all while you support your local community. 

b- Mixing old and new. Purchasing from Home Goods is a great way to mix it up and add some charm. The saving are wonderful and there is something for everyone's style. If you don't have one near you, you can also try big company stores for a few common pieces too tag along your more unique finds. 

c- Family - Grab those heirlooms you remember seeing when you grew up 

d- Stop in at High end Estate Sales in the summer - you just might score crystal Waterford for a steal. 
​
e- Local Nurseries. Garland, tress, and accessories bring so much elegance when they are real -- spoiler alert: often they costs less than plastic and usually they price is reduced when purchasing a few items or as a retuning customer!

I recently had the opportunity to get involved in my local town;s parade. There were beautiful floats, friendly faces and marching bands. The weather was beautiful nd the leaves extra orange that day. Every inch of us was surrounded with what you would imagine to be a perfect Fall day in New England. Pretty houses with little shops dotted the main street as we float along. 

Our float was built by hand - a darling raw wood boat, with a 'Captain Pierce' and all. The team I had the pleasure of joining was organized by a very happy women, whose warm smile and great spirit make you feel like you have always belonged alongside her. Though we talked quite a bit via email; I first met Melissa the day of the parade and her electric pink 80's costume seem to suit the energy and adorableness of her very being.

Welcoming and excited was a mix of 1880's - 1980's fashion on our 'Historic Themed Float".
Reward for their great costumes (and in my cousin Ashley and my case; our 1940's fashion choice for the day) we got the Grand Prize First Place! 

I have to be honest. i was stressing out about doing this. Center stage isn't my first love, but everyone was so kind and having my beautiful cousin there helped (that and a lot of prayer). So much fun was it all, that I wold be honored and ecstatic to help next year. 

Battle at Segregansett
Such wonderful history and a great study on fabrics, dress and culture. Let's face it; the historic club knows their history. And they know their fabrics. The textiles and silks were so luxurious and terrific quality. Soft linens being sold in bulk and a million rolls of silk that felt nearly identical to My own silk pieces that are over 100 years in age.
Plus, the prices were hugely discounted in comparison to other fabric stores. So, even if your not all that into war reenactments, may I suggest popping in at least one for funs sake and fabric must have.? I personally had a lot of fun and, may because I absolutely love everything  and anything before my time, found myself  admiring more than just the great costumes and dress.

Moving somewhere new is aways stressful. Leaving behind our wonderful neighbors and wondering how we will ever be fortunate enough to be surrounded by such good and kind people was heavy on our mind. 
What's this got to do with a kid's party? Everything. 

First day in town and we already had a little issue. There was a  small "delay" between our purchase and selling time; which meant there was no where to park a truck filled with all our valuables. Our new local police where there to help. We parked in their lot for a few hours and it made our day so much easier! So, I knew our local police where wonderful, but I was about to find out just how wonderful they really are. 

My youngest kept insisting that he needed the entire police force at his up coming party. Cake and napkin themed officers where not going to cut it for this kid. At first, I thought it would pass, but it didn't. He kept asking. One day I gave in and we made an invitation for him to bring and invite our police squad, all of them. I was reluctant because my little guy has never spoken to an officer before (outside of his grandpa Chippy) and knew I that I would be the one (awkwardly) inviting grown adults to a kids party, Grown adults, mind you, that are fully trained and uniformed men and women who can combat local crime, save lives, and are fully prepared for emergency and dangerous situations. 

So in we go, to the station, with another out-of-the-box need and still Very new in town. The officers came out and I explained the card, the party, the need for every last one of them or at least one of them. Please?! (gulp). 'Of Course', they said! There to help without hesitation. 

Time to decorate! 
We got hay bales and fabric for $1.99 a yard to cover them (they can get a little 'pokey' if you know what I mean). We took a couple tables outside and popped up a tent. Black and gold was the theme colors - which was a little "mature" for a youngster, I admit; but he rejected every pre-made police theme paper party good we could find and told me the colors he wanted. This boy knows what he wants, clearly. 

For 'entertainment' we literally depended on outdoor play, imagination, and the 'game' cops-and-robbers. We were hosting a huge age range, so we had struggled with finding things that every child could enjoy. After much discussion, we just settled on good "old fashion" fun and unstructured play - guess what? No fighting, no complaining, and loads of laughs and silliness. No bells and whistles, in a way - it was a Very Vintage sort of party. Like it was 1950 again and the whole community was one and technology stepped back for a moment. 

About an hour before the party my phone began blowing up. 6 families all bumped into problems that they just couldn't make it. It happens. At least almost everyone called/ text to let me know. But I was concerned, was anyone coming? A half hour after the party was suppose to start, 2 families out of the remaining 9 were there. We had a lot of food pre-ordered and the stress began. 

Then, right on cue, lights flashing and sirens whaling, in a hazy excitement; we received  the anticipated arrival of 3 police cruisers. Everything changed in that moment. Who cares who comes!? The heroes arrived! They brought so much joy to my family, friends, the children and (especially) my little one. We couldn't find words to thank them enough.

 (The pizza guy was dropping off the pizza when they arrived and I think he was a little freaked out, but then enjoyed all the action and stayed for a little bit too! 

WARNING! Getting Sappy...

This is why my son wants to be an officer, because they care they truly, truly care;
They brought shirts, badges, stickers, and most importantly Love and Kindness. 
They took time from their busy schedule and made a little boys dream come true. 
They didn't need him to be sick, to be hurt, or to be anything other than a child with a want that they could meet. 
They didn't just come quick and go in a flash, no - they stayed. 
They laughed, hugged, shared, supported, taught, and spent time with us. 
They gave us more than we could ever thank them for. We were so sad to see them go. 
We pray for them at night and their whole force. 


We know we truly have moved to a very special town. In my town, my neighbors walk up and down the street and they always say hello. They help you find your dog if she runs away. They give you some tomatoes from their garden. They share the rich history. My town has good, solid people. And, yes, in my town the police are just as good. They will come to celebrate a little boy just because he turned 5.

There is this moment, just before all the pumpkin carvings and festivities, when summer steps back a bit, and all our minds turn toward the coming Autumn. There are still flowers, green leaves and singing birds. The days are still hot, but the nights are cool.  New Englander's know this time of year well. Welcome to the cusp of Fall! 

The other morning, I sat mediating and praising among the warm blanket of heavy summer air and smells around me that disappeared into sudden strong Fall winds. As the trees began rustling, I made up my mind; it was time to for me to celebrate the new season. I was 'Pre-Season Fall-ing' and my decorating-itch began. 

No pumpkins where yet for sale, but I could still eat and drink (and being a busy mom, maybe even Wear a little) Pumpkin flavored treat. No worries messy moms; we have a slew of  lovely vintage knits that are super easy to care for (Nylon!), 

Any way,,, my brain storming began; how do I pre-decorate with out my neighbors saying; "Already? Let's not rush it!"? In case your a tan and lovely L.A. darling, who may not understand great Northern cold-weather communities, as pleasant as Fall is,no one ever rushes it. Why? Easy, that pretty snow you so desire to see and touch? It really a white  doom of shoveling, freezing, and icy toes. 

A few days later I head out shopping. Fortunate for me, my local nursery is staffed with brilliant talents and affordable goodies. For under $100 I was able to boost my curb appeal and pre-celbrate fall. The look is elegant, eas, and nods at both present and future. Unfortunately, my little loves wont last past the 1st frost, but then that will be another adventure and another post. 

Check out your local florist or nursery and see what they are making; or what they would be willing to make. Faux florals are another option. They can easily achieved a similar look and are then able to be used year after year. They also allow for a bit longer. 

Whatever you choose, the best part is when those pumpkins do come for sale - they will make a cute addition and complete the look you already started! Here is my front and some places you can get a similar look. Share your pics or comment, we love hearing from you!

Before I even begin, I am going to tell you this; that round Coffee Table! (that got quite abused during our move) drives me bonkers. With so many cute kids tables from Restoration Hardware, Pottery Barn, and even flea markets -- I know we could do better. The thing is -my son, Asher, LOVES that table, just the way it is. And it IS his room. Can I at least paint it? No. So, that is that.

But there is plenty to love about this room!!!

There are some great mom DIY's, like this antique mirror I glued antique wood birds and wood bird calls onto. The shade, I simple unscrewed the old light fixture and spun on the shade. Easy. Both those jobs combine, cost me under 2 minutes. 

And speaking of cost...

My best deals? This East Lake antique small chest of drawers was an incredible score at a local Antique Mall for $60; already painted in that cool matte black! Originally bought for the library, but was the wrong scale, it works perfectly in Asher's room! 

The other amazing deal was his iron bed. i looked at beds with high price tags and was sure the higher the tag number the better the built. Not so. I stumbled into this when googling 'Iron Day Beds' or something like that. I actually had a local store close by and drove to see it in person. It was very similar to beds that were far, far more money. Its heavy weight and not one dent or paint scratch - did I tell you our move damaged many things? But not this guy - he is sturdy. In fact, we even got on for my other son. 
For $280 including the trundle underneath, just click the links on the bottom of this blog to shop. 

Let's not forget the obvious - that incredible wall mural from Anthropologie! Clickk the link to buy your own; it's called Enchanted Forest by Rebecca Rebouche. 
All the other details and items where found antiquing, at Home Goods, or little designer shops.