The Happy Home Maker

Friday, April 19, 2013

Design Day Friday: The Clock on the Wall

Clocks have long been a staple in homes, even revered as fine pieces of engineering and craftsmanship. However, the functional use of wall clocks is almost obsolete. With our myriad of technology and gadgets, most of us look to our phone, computer, dvd player, cable box, stove or microwave for the time. In fact, the days of teaching kids to tell time using the big hand and the little hand are fading into the digital world. But the beauty of a clock still holds a place in good design. It brings shape, depth and style to a room and also ads a sense of home-y familiarity. Clocks offer an alternative to wall art and can be used to break up a large wall, add to a grouping of art and wall accessories and hang in places that other objects might seem awkward. In an effort to showcase the timeless (pun intended) accessory, I have collected some lovely clocks worthy of hanging in a place of note.

Isn't it about "time" you changed the old clock on the wall? Select a timepiece that really expresses what makes you tick and don't forget to check the time now and then. -Ta

Thursday, April 18, 2013

Birdie's Nest: Comfort Dogs Go To Boston

Packed and Ready to Travel

Birdie

Hello, my name is Birdie and I am really excited about working with my mom. I have been her office mate for a long time and she decided to put me to work. I am not sure how often I will write, because I like to take naps and sometimes I fall asleep while mom is typing. Anyway, I thought I would share some of my view of the world as a pup with you and your fur friends.

For my first post, I thought I would introduce you to some dogs that are helping out in Boston this week. You have probably heard about the police officer dogs that sniff out bombs and help the city stay safe. They are like dog super-heros. There is another group of fur buddies in town that are helping in a different way, the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Ministry. They are walking the streets of Boston, and visiting the humans who were hurt giving lots of licks and kisses and getting hugs and belly scratches all over town. They like giving smiles the most.

Here is the latest news from their trip:

"UPDATE: LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry Deploys to Boston, Massachusetts in Response to Bombings - Asking for Your Support

Lutheran Church Charities K-9 Comfort Dogs were deployed on Tuesday, April 16th to Boston to be with the survivors of the bombings from Monday, April 15, 2013. We have been working with First Lutheran Church of Boston which is only blocks away from the finish line of the Boston Marathon. Rev Ingo Dutzmann, Pastor of First Lutheran Church of Boston , has asked that the Comfort Dogs be there for those in the community who are shaken up from the bombings.

On Wednesday, April 17, 2013 the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog team ventured out into the community to bring comfort to the shaken up as well as the survivors of the blasts. They visited one of the survivors in the hospital just hours before she had surgery on her leg. They brought smiles and peace that only dogs can bring. Wednesday night the team met with a running group from Boston and provided pizza for them.

Thursday was no less busy as they spent most of the day at First Lutheran Church of Boston, meeting with members of the community that sought them out. They met with people of all ages and the ministry of presence for the Lutheran Church Charities team was felt and appreciated by all!

Please keep all the people affected by the bombings in Boston in your prayers as they heal physically and emotionally."

Its expensive for the group to travel so they would really appreciate any help you can give them. Here's how to help. LCC Comfort Dog Fund

Thanks for taking the time to meet my friends and I hope you share this with your friends. Keep praying for the hurt and the helpers. -Birdie

Monday, March 25, 2013

Etchings From the Man Cave: John Varvatos

johnvarvatos.com

This guy is just plain COOL. Maybe I'm partial to John Varvatos because he is a Detroit native (ok, I am), but lets face it the fella defines "swagga." As an award winning fashion designer. His influence is definitely old school motor city rock and roll, not in a glitzy glam way. Varvatos designs with an aesthetic that is true to his Midwest roots. Its a mans-man style that is functional and comfortable but tough and has a beat all its own. Clothes a guy would actually wear. His pieces are on trend but not trend-y. He made the lace-less Converse popular and continues to design cutting edge looks for the classic brand. His latest campaign features musicians Gary Clark, Jr. and the legendary Jimmy Page. Pretty solid endorsement, don't ya think?

Now, John Varvatos has taken on the ultimate homage to Detroit through his collaboration with Chrysler on the Limited Edition John Varvatos Chrysler 300C and he is legit. This isn't just a "here's my name now go market it" venture. Varvatos is a car enthusiast who even spent time working for the automaker during his youth. The signature details in the vehicle include all the elements that his fashion line is known for. "The seats match the rich leather of jackets. The dashboard mirrors the face of timepieces. The metal trims are inspired by the titanium bottle accents of fragrances." -johnvarvatos.com

If a Varvatos 300C isn't in the budget, you can still impress the ladies Varvatos style. This week curl up on the couch with your gal and turn on "Fashion Star." You can impress her with your knowledge of the wickedly talented John Varvatos, one of the shows celeb judges. You'll probably earn some points for watching it with her of your own free will too. The bonus, you can absorb more of J.V.'s signature style pointers and impress your lady at the same time! (Just a little insider tip from yours truly. Glad to help.) Rock on!

Thursday, March 21, 2013

To Target To Target: What's New and What We Love

Spring has sprung and there is a fresh new crop of goodies at Target and a few new ones on the way. Here is a list of my don't miss top picks:

If you haven't heard, Justin Timberlake has a new "album" (I still call it an album). If you pick up up your copy at Target you can get their exclusive bonus tracks. I must say I am kind of all over this one, but its hard not to get carried away by the musical stylings of JT....or Michael Bublé because....Bublé is headed to Target stores on April 23 with his album "To Be Loved" and three exclusive bonus tracks, "It's a Beautiful Day," "Melancholy Baby" and a cover of the Ronette's "Be My Baby."

I told you about the spring debut of Kate Young for Target on its way in April. Next,Target has yet another design collaboration coming soon, but this one has the potential to provide 10 million meals to hungry Americans. The line FEED created by Lauren Bush Lauren will be hitting stores in June. The designs are fantastic and it is hard to pick favorites.

Last year, Target launched its house brand of home decor products called "Threshold." As usual they are on trend with affordable options. The look is bright and bursting with pattern and texture. There are many items offered in this line, but I posted some of my favs:

Finally, if you have your eye on an item at Target and have been reluctant to pull the trigger. Keep an eye on their daily deals online. They offer 24hr special pricing on big ticket items as well as small ones. When I see a good one coming, I will alert you so, stay tuned so you don't miss out!

This Sunday, is your chance to snag a cute little accent chair to perk up your room.

Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Newly Wed-nesday: The Most Dreamy Honeymoon Suite EVER.

This honeymoon suite is fit for a king and queen. It doesn't get more bridal than Tiffany and NYC. So, before you head off to your far away destination, book a lay over in NYC and start your married life off in high style!

St Regis Hotel, NYC, The Tiffany Suite - "A glamorous setting for romance. An exquisite jewel box. A storied hotel that Marilyn, Dietrich and Dalì called home. Handmade silver leaf wall coverings, unexpected touches of Tiffany Blue and a shimmering palette that catches the light like a brilliant diamond. In this elegant aerie, watch the sun set on the verdant crown of Central Park from the floor-to-ceiling windows. Toast each other with the clink of Tiffany crystal, feast under the glow of a magnificent chandelier, then dance cheek-to-cheek by the fireplace. With a 24-hour butler at your beck and call, you may never want to leave—nor have to."

Friday, March 15, 2013

Design Day Friday: Easter Egg DIY

Moustache Eggs

Easter is just around the corner, or as everyone and their uncle has been saying.."Easter is early this year." Anyway, there is still time to get hopping on your egg design plan for this year, yes, your egg design. It's not just food coloring and vinegar anymore. The ideas for egg dying are multiplying like rabbits! With a little help from some of my favorite websites and fellow bloggers, I put together a best of the best Easter Egg DIY's: