Ring in the Spring

Okay, so I know it's not officially spring yet, but today in California, we had a gorgeous, spring-like day, so I am itching to get my spring on! It's time to start planning for those outdoor dinner parties and backyard barbecues. In addition to the Mad Mats that I posted previously, I'm eyeing these really cool Moroccan-inspired melamine dishes from Home Infatuation. Love these colors and patterns, and I think they'd look great with a Mad Mat.

I want them all!

AND... even though I have no place to put this (since I have a covered deck), I really want this bright, hand-painted paisley patio umbrella (also from Home Infatuation). Now, off to find the perfect outdoor, non-glass glassware!

The Power of Paisley

I must confess: I have a thing for paisleys, and you'll probably wind up seeing a lot of them posted here over time.

As Wikipedia will tell you, paisleys are Persian in origin, but their name comes from the Scottish town of Paisley. To many, it is an ancient symbol of fertility. To a few, it is a conduit for demons. To most of us, though, it's a curvy, versatile motif, at once funky and elegant.

I think paisleys look good on everything, and here are a few current examples.

Love this Paisley and Leather Settee from Horchow. In fact, they've got several really cool paisley items currently, like this collection of Paisley Gold Dinnerware and these nifty Paisley Desk Accessories, which I'll never be able to afford.



































For more lovely paisley prints, check out this Putu Weekender Bag from Wrapables, these Privo Paisley Thong Sandals from Garnet Hill, Charles Keath Penzance Chair Cushions, and the Bronze Paisley Charlotte Table Lamp from PoshLiving.

Black and White

I sort of envy people who decorate with black and white predominantly. I've often toyed with the idea of having a black and white room with just a few key pieces of vivid color (fuchsia or peacock blue, for instance), but I don't know if I could do it. I love a room that's a riot of color! But still, if I were to decorate in black and white, here's some pieces I'd seriously consider.

I wish the picture for this was a little better. This is just a run-of-the-mill over-the-door shoe organizer, but WOW, what a great pattern! I am tempted to run to the Home Depot first thing in the morning to pick one up. And right now it's on sale for just $10.50.

Okay, so I'm cheating a bit here, as these Iron Vines wall decals by Blik are actually cocoa colored, but wouldn't it be great if they were black? Look how well they'd match that shoe organizer.

By the way, I'll take Viggo too, if no one objects.

Do you see a pattern emerging here, or is it just me? This Rustic Baroque Coaster Set is available at Target and would look very nice supporting Viggo's glass of wine, don't you think?