La Maison Boheme

Simple Quiet Pleasures

2012-01-30T08:50:00.000-08:00

Details matter.

Time alone matters.

Creating a small space for beauty...

Recognizing when you need a moment of silence...

It all matters so very much.

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Charlie News

2012-01-28T19:54:00.000-08:00

Thank you all for your emails and comments in support of my son, Charlie, who recently had an MRI. Our neurologist wanted to take a look inside Charlie's beautiful head to see the current state of his perinatal brain hemorrhage. For those of you who are interested, I have posted a full report of the MRI on Charlie's blog HERE. And just for fun, I want to leave you with cute baby giggles, which seem to heal most any problem.

All my gratitude,

Upholstered Headboard

2012-01-27T05:38:00.000-08:00

Today, I want nothing more than to stay in bed

with a cup for tea and read something by Jane Austen.

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But if I'm going to do that, I'd like to have a bed that looks like this.

Not to be picky, but it would certainly add to my reading experience.

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Little Tree

2012-01-26T04:00:00.000-08:00

I picked up this little Bonsai style Ficus tree at IKEA last fall and have been enjoying it all through the winter. It sits in my front window, where I usually do morning coffee. Today, I'm spending the morning at a neurology clinic with my little Charlie, so I'm keeping it simple here at La Maison Boheme with a little post of my little tree. Have a beautiful day!

Heavenly Henna

2012-01-25T09:40:00.000-08:00

I've never had a henna tattoo. I see them on the beautiful bellies of my pregnant doula clients all the time. Its such a wonderful way to celebrate a rite of passage. I've been thinking about having some henna done this summer to celebrate my birthday. Have you ever had a henna tattoo? Where on your body did you have it done? Were you celebrating something special?

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And one of my sweet readers, Karla, sent this AMAZING photo

of her daughter modeling a henna corset. Isn't it spectacular?

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Art Nouveau Doors

2012-01-24T06:59:00.000-08:00

One of my very favorite moments in history for art and architecture is the Art Nouveau period - roughly 1890-1910. It was most popular in Europe and can still be seen all over France, Austria, Spain and elsewhere. My understanding is that it was a "back to nature" movement, where artists were interested in harmonizing their environments with the natural world around them. (Obviously, I'm not an art historian...) Mostly I'm drawn to the undulating lines, circular motifs and highly ornate decorative details. Here are some beautiful examples of doors crafted in the Art Nouveau style.

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A House with Soul

2012-01-23T08:23:00.000-08:00

Some people say that the kitchen is the heart of the home.

Well, if the kitchen is the heart, then the home library is surely the soul.

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And here is a shot of my own home library.

One of my favorite places in my house!

Be a Poem

2012-01-21T15:32:00.000-08:00

"Let your amazement out into the room. Pry open the box you hide your joy in. Be a poem.”

- John Patrick Shanley, Playwright

Once again, that's...

Let your amazement out into the room.

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...and then...

Pry open the box you hide your joy in.

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And finally...

Be a poem.

Holcombe Waller and Ben Landsverk

Create a Piece of Art Within Yourself

2012-01-20T14:44:00.000-08:00

Take a look...

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Charlie and Kenna's Kids

2012-01-19T05:28:00.000-08:00

Its been a while since I've shared an update on Charlie. As most of my long-time readers know, Charlie had a stroke before he was born, the effects of which cause him lots of physical delays. He's almost 18 months old, but cannot use words, sit up or crawl. The stroke was on the right side of his brain, which means that his left side is somewhat rigid and his left hand is usually balled in a fist. Charlie has been in physical therapy since he was seven weeks old and he will continue to attend therapy sessions for most of his young life.

Charlie's physical therapy is going very well since we last checked in and just this week he said, "Mama" for the first time! (Well.... its was more like, "mamamama" - but I'll take it!) It was pure joy hearing my name come out of Charlie's mouth. Charlie has also recovered beautifully from the skull surgery he had last August. His scar is totally invisible and he has no traces of his former head shape, which was small and pinched due to a condition he had called Craniosynostosis.

Tomorrow, Charlie has an MRI, his first in over a year. Doctors are going to look at the stroke site and also assess whether Charlie has had any recent seizure activity. Then on Saturday, Charlie will be having a full physical assessment to determine his next phase of physical and speech therapy. But Charlie also has some very exciting news to share with you!

We're so excited that Charlie has this wonderful new opportunity. With the help of Kenna's Kids, Charlie will have access to a larger variety of therapies and Kenna's Kids maybe even help us pay off some of our outstanding medical bills! Feel free to visit Kenna's Kids at www.kennaskids.org to find out more about Charlie's new advocates and how they are preparing to help. And as always, you can stay connected through Charlie's blog, Help Charlie Heal.

I cannot express my deep gratitude to you, dear readers, who have supported my family, loved Charlie from afar and buoyed me with your words of inspiration and thoughtful messages. It has meant the world to me. And thank you to Kenna's Kids for choosing Charlie. I have a feeling, things are about to get a lot better.

Want to get involved with Kenna's Kids? Click HERE to learn how.

Or, contact Jeremy Pigott at jeremy.pigott@mastech.com.

You can also stay connected through Kenna's Kids on Facebook.

Go "like" their page and show your support!

Vintage Door Knobs

2012-01-18T03:57:00.000-08:00

The interior knob on my front door needs some serious help. For six months now, the knob has been coming off the door when pulled in a certain way. So every once in a while an unsuspecting guest pulls on the knob and the whole thing comes off leaving a brown swipe of grease on their hand, or worse, their clothing. I have absolutely no idea how to replace a front door knob and lock, nor does my husband. I may have to call someone in.

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Make Everything Beautiful

2012-01-17T04:53:00.000-08:00

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Caffeine Please

2012-01-16T03:53:00.000-08:00

The week ahead is full. I've got lots to do and all of it will be done with two kids in tow. Papa is out of town this week and I'm on deck for every hour of the next six days. The week will culminate in an MRI for my son, Charlie. So...yeah, I think I'm going to need some caffeine.

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Sarah Saw Something

2012-01-14T06:22:00.000-08:00

It's time for another installment of Sarah Saw Something, where I share little odds and ends that I found interesting around the blogosphere this week.

This amazing home tour I found at Home and Garden Deco. Thank you Ann (of Plum Sienna) for the heads up. You were right... I LOVE IT!

A very cool fashion spread of Julianne Moore as art - found at Anya Adores.

And this week I ran across this marvelous video of Judy Garland in Summer Stock singing "Come On Get Happy". It's too wonderful not to share!

In the Kitchen Today

2012-01-13T05:36:00.000-08:00

Today, I'm in the kitchen making a homemade bean soup for my family. We're battling the winter sickies and its pretty cold outside. I've got two boys feeling under the weather and they'll need something warm and savory to see them through the day. What is your favorite thing to cook up when the weather turns frigid and immune systems go on strike?

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I saw this cute kitchen conversion table at JPM yesterday and thought I'd share.

I need this reference sheet on my kitchen wall or tucked inside a cabinet door.

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Champagne Mood

2012-01-12T08:34:00.000-08:00

Last weekend I had a small dinner party and one of our guests brought a bottle of Prosecco to share. I sat looking at the beautiful golden bubbly beverage thinking, this is a great color. I love champagne. Whether its in a flute or the color of a bedspread, it has a breezy, elegant quality that says, "Hey, I'm special".

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The Perfect Room

2012-01-11T05:47:00.000-08:00

I just spotted this photo at Savvy Home. Its from an Italian Ski Lodge House tour in Marie Claire Maison Italia. The house is incredible, but this room in particular has me smiling big time. Cozy, boho, bookish, euro, industrial, and inviting. Dreamy!

images from Marie Claire Maison Italia via City Sage

Bold Blue

2012-01-10T04:00:00.000-08:00

A little something about me that you might not know: I'm psychic. And I know what you've been doing. You have been hemming and hawing for far too long about what color to paint that room. You know the room I'm talking about. Want my advice? Blue. Bold beautiful blue. Cobalt for drama. Or peacock for playfulness. Your choice.

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Aged Perfection

2012-01-09T05:53:00.000-08:00

I just finished the new issue of House Beautiful, which I look forward to reading every month. I always find wonderful ideas to take away. But I always feel a little put off when I see spread after spread of rooms which have been designed with all new furniture or completely refurbished furniture and fixtures. Isn't it okay to have old, worn pieces in our homes anymore? Of all the things in my home, the pieces I love most are worn, frayed and loved into aged perfection.

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Bringing Mexico Home

2012-01-06T11:26:00.000-08:00

Just before Christmas, my husband and I spent a week in Cancun. We needed a break and my wonderful mother and mother-in-law teamed up to give us the amazing gift of some time away. While I was there, I picked up a few hand made textiles for my home. They were silly inexpensive, and now I'm kicking myself for not snagging more while I was there. Ah well. We had such a lovey time in Mexico that we wanted to infuse our master bedroom with some of that vacation feeling. Please excuse my poor photography.

There was a woman on La Isla Mujeres - an island just off of Cancun point - selling hand embroidered bedspreads, table cloths and place mats. I really wanted one of the larger pieces, but wasn't in a position to spend more than a few dollars. So I bought two place mats instead and decided to frame them. I love the bold color and whimsical animals.

Here they are framed below my Lady of Gudalupe - a gift from a friend.

We're really pleased with the new Mexican vibe in our bedroom.

All I need now are some party lights and a Negra Modelo.

Fluffing My Home with Ethnic Prints

2012-01-05T07:16:00.000-08:00

My Christmas tree is now out of the house and all my green and red decor safely tucked away for next year's festivities. Now that the solid velvets and rich plaids are gone, its time to re-infuse the house with my beloved old stand-by - ethnic prints and woven textiles. I'm so excited because I came home from Mexico with some new woven pieces to add to my usual round up. Today, I need a little inspiration as I fluff up my home. Tomorrow, I'll post photos of my non-Christmas-y, ethnic infused and newly fluffed living room!

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Pastel Patterns

2012-01-04T15:15:00.000-08:00

Its January and the dark days and cold nights require a certain kind of clothing- heavy cover-ups and water-resistant coats. Gray wool, black felt, brown leather are called into action. But today, I saw a woman wearing a mint green cashmere sweater. She reminded me that even winter can be light, airy and even a bit whimsical. Let's change things up and throw a pastel print into our winter wardrobes.

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Amanda Stone Talley

2012-01-03T07:17:00.000-08:00

Today I want to share the beautiful work of painter Amanda Stone Talley. Amanda recently introduced herself to me, via this blog, and I have instantly fallen in love with her work. Graphic, undulating, natural shapes, playfulness - what's not to love? The pieces below are from her website.

Amanda is also a textile designer!

Here is a sample of one of her fabrics:

So, does her work remind you of anything?

Ah yes - my entry wall!

I don't know if I ever saw Amanda's work before now, but I may have.

Oh wait... I know I've seen the photo below somewhere in the wilds of blog land.

Obviously it made an impression. Not only on me, but also on Jamie Meares, whose beautiful wall at Furbish inspired me to paint my entry. The magical thing about Amanda's paintings is that they work on you over time, embedding itself into your subconscious. The pattern speaks to you, but you can't remember where you saw it or what it was. Thank you, Amanda, for the introduction. Your work is so lovely. I hope you don't mind a little emulation. It's high praise, I promise.

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My Entryway

Ornate Wall Coverings

2012-01-02T10:20:00.000-08:00

This week, I'm posting all about ornate patterns, graphic prints, and ethnic textiles. Lately I've been on a big pattern kick and I can't wait to share some of the textiles I brought home from my recent trip to Mexico. But first, feast your eyes on these gorgeous wall coverings. As you can see, I'm a huge fan of the Arts and Crafts movement, chinoiserie and botanical prints.

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Welcome 2012

2012-01-01T09:19:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year, one and all!

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Year In Review - My Projects in 2011

2011-12-31T03:13:00.000-08:00

Last year I did a re-cap of all my home improvement projects from 2010. It was such fun to look back and see what had been accomplished around the house. This year, I thought I'd do it again! So here we go...

one

I completely redesigned my son's bedroom for his 4th birthday.

two

I completed a painting of Charlie.

three

I painted an accent wall in my entry way on a whim.

four

I installed a new lighting fixture in my bedroom.

five

I redecorated my master bedroom on the cheap at IKEA.

six

I reorganized my pantry.

seven

Turned my office into a bedroom for my one year old son, Charlie.

eight

I turned a corner of my laundry room into my office.

nine

My mom and I painted my front door and porch chairs.

ten

I created a gallery wall in our guest room.

eleven

I stitched up some cafe curtains for my kitchen window.

twelve

I haven't posted this yet, but my mom just painted my bathroom last week.

It was an ugly dirty white before, but now its a pretty cool gray. Thanks mom!

thirteen
I started Smaller Sarah, a blog that follows my journey to lose 75 pounds in one year.
So far, I've lost 43 pounds and I've never felt better!

and finally...

Charlie's Craniofacial surgery. Although this certainly doesn't fall in the category of "home improvement", it was definitely the biggest project and most memorable moment of my year.
As usual, you can follow Charlie's progress at Help Charlie Heal.

Thank you so much to all my readers for making 2011 a fantastic year. Your emails, comments and engaged readership keep me going all year long. Happy New Year's Eve and cheers to 2012 - it's going to be GREAT!

Farm Chic Clothing from Ewa iWalla

2011-12-30T14:36:00.000-08:00

I've just spent the last hour oogling over the beautiful clothing collections from Swedish clothing designer Ewa iWalla. I love all the layered linen, wool and cotton fabrics in neutral colors. I'm always a sucker for clothing with petticoats and knickers. Here are some of my faves:

My Dream Cottage

2011-12-29T11:30:00.000-08:00

One day I'll have a little cottage retreat somewhere in the wilds of Oregon to write and play and garden and weave and grow old. My dream cottage is quaint in all the ways that only an old cottage can be, but its also a functional place to house me, my family and all our creative soul-projects. It might look something like this...

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Where is your dream retreat?

What does it look like?

Rooms for the Revolution

2011-12-28T06:06:00.000-08:00

If you haven't been over to Rooms for the Revolution, click on through to check it out. It's a gorgeous store house of amazing spaces, quirky homes, whimsical architecture and bohemian ephemera. But be careful you don't fall down the rabbit hole - you'll easily lose an hour if you're not careful.

All photos from Rooms for the Revolution.

Good Food

2011-12-27T13:08:00.000-08:00

I've had lots of wonderful Christmas-y things to eat over the past week. But tonight, I'm in the mood for something a little different. My father has lovingly offered to take my children for the night while Jack and I enjoy an evening out. I'm thinking some little rustic Italian place where I can get yummy fresh food and an espresso to top it off. I'll let you know how it goes!

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Quiet Contemplation

2011-12-26T12:23:00.000-08:00

Today, the day after Christmas, always seems to be a quiet one filled with reflection and contemplative moments. I'm at home with family, reading a new book and polishing off yesterday's pie stash. What are you up to today?

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Peace On Earth

2011-12-25T11:42:00.000-08:00

Merry Everything.

Happy Always.

Wishing you all a beautiful holiday.

Sarah Saw Something - The Christmas Edition

2011-12-24T05:27:00.000-08:00

Yesterday my family and I went to Thanks-Giving Sqaure in downtown Dallas to watch a musical event known as Tuba Christmas. Basically, two hundred plus tuba and euphonium players congregate and play Christmas carols for an hour or so. Its an annual event, free to the public and completely marvelous. You can learn more about Tuba Christmas by clicking HERE.

Below is a photo of our Master of Ceremonies:

The conductor was from a local Texas university:

Here's a quick shot of me and Charlie all bundled up!

Merry Christmas one and all!

The Winter Solstice

2011-12-22T14:24:00.000-08:00

Today marks the shortest day of the year and the official beginning of winter in the pagan calendar. So a very very happy solstice to everyone! Light your yule log, raise a glass of mead and blessings to you all!

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Parenthood

2011-12-21T09:04:00.000-08:00

Today I am so grateful to be on this crazy journey called parenthood. My little knuckleheads are the dearest most beautiful joy-makers I've ever known. And the fact that I get to co-parent with Jack, my lovely and devoted husband, makes it all the more magical. Today I give thanks for all of you who are doing the mysterious, magical, and mundane work of parenting a kiddo. What a chance. What a life. What a wonderful world.

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And here is our little quartet - a photo taken a few days ago in our back yard.

Christmas Greenery

2011-12-20T06:44:00.000-08:00

Now that we're in the five day countdown to Christmas, its time to post some Christmas greenery. I love walking up to a home at Christmas time and seeing the wreath on the front door. The wreath welcomes me with the sweet smell of pine and rosemary or eucalyptus. It's such a wonderful way to celebrate the season!

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The Kind of Mood I'm In

2011-12-19T05:51:00.000-08:00

I'm in a cozy, reflective mood this morning. I want to wear something flowy. Something vintage. I want to write in my journal and sip coffee surrounded by floral wall paper and worn surroundings. Who's with me?

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Mexico and Back Again

2011-12-17T11:49:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone! Thank you for allowing me to take a week away from La Maison Boheme. My husband, Jack, and I had a spectacular time in Cancun. Here's a look at our trip! For those of you who dread slide shows from well-meaning friends upon their return from some place that you couldn't give a hoot about, just skip the video. Its mostly just gushy photos of me and my man drinking coconut drinks on a pretty beach. It's good to be back and I'll resume our regularly scheduled programming on Monday!

Far and Away

2011-12-08T12:58:00.000-08:00

I am going to do something that I haven't done in a million years. Well - only seven years, but it seems like a million. My husband and I are going on a non-work related vacation without kids. Our trip sort of crept up on me and I did not make any plans for guest posts and the like. So, for the first time in La Maison Boheme history, I will be in absentia for an entire week. However, I will return next week with a calm spirit, a clear head and maybe a even a tan. Have a wonderful week!

Where are we going? Cancun.

A gift from my mama and her wonderful husband!

Adios...

Rustic Open Shelving

2011-12-07T05:32:00.000-08:00

I love the look of open shelving in a pantry or kitchen, but these rustic spaces take it to a whole new level. So simple and so beautiful.

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Black and White and Something More

2011-12-06T06:12:00.000-08:00

The weather has turned here in Dallas. It's 29 degrees this morning. The slow autumn decay is accelerating as the winds strip the trees of their leaves. The naked black branches stand stark against the cream white sky announcing winter's arrival. It reminds me of how much I adore this color combination.

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Paper Chain Zen Circles Christmas Garland

2011-12-05T06:03:00.000-08:00

This year, I wanted to have a long term Christmas project that our family could work on in our off hours. When you've got a four-year-old yearning to play in his water logged sand box, you've got to have something up your sleeve. So, we've spent the last few weeks creating a paper chain garland for our Christmas tree. I was inspired by this beautiful zen circle...

Red Zen Circle by Ren Adams

We painted our chain strips in a similar style.

Walker was sad that we didn't yet have a Christmas tree to hang it on.

Patience, baby, patience. Nothing ever comes all at once. Especially good things.

Wondering how to make one of these beauties for yourself?

Here is a video of Walker (age 4) explaining the process to his Daddy.

Yesterday, we brought home our Christmas tree

and were finally able to hang our garland.

Charlie was mesmerized.

Did you make hand made Christmas garlands as a kid?

What materials did you use?

Art Card Giveaway Winners

2011-12-05T05:58:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to the Help Charlie Heal Giveaway winners:

Diane
jhitomi

Michelle

Priya from Once Upon a Tea Time

Agata from White Collar / Green Soul

I will be in touch shortly to get your address and send you your Help Charlie Heal Art Cards!

Thank you everyone for all your love and support for Baby Charlie!

P.S. Diane, you did not leave an email and I have no way of contacting you. If you're reading this, please send your mailing address to me at lamaisonboheme at gmail dot com. Thank you so much!

Sarah Saw Something

2011-12-03T04:37:00.000-08:00

It's time for another installment of Sarah Saw Something, where I share little odds and ends that I found interesting around the blogosphere this week.

This post showcasing ethnic textiles by Ashlina, aka The Decorista, made me very happy.

Rashon Carraway, aka Mr. Goodwill Hunting, blew my mind this week by painting (yes painting) a pair of wing back chairs in lieu of re-upholstering. The best part is that it cost him only $14.99. They looks amazing. Click HERE to see the finished product and HERE to learn how he did it.

I can't stop listening to this duet by Gotye and Kimbra. I love it so much.

For those of you who follow my other blog, Smaller Sarah - I just hit the six month mark on my one year weight loss journey! I'm excited to report that I'm down 40 pounds and I'm gearing up for my first ever 5K run in March! If you're interested, you can read more HERE.

And finally, don't forget to enter the Help Charlie Heal Giveaway. You could win one of five sets of art cards created by my four-year-old son, Walker. They are awesome! Click HERE to enter. Giveaway ends tomorrow night.

Howard's End

2011-12-02T10:20:00.000-08:00

Last night my husband and I watched Howard's End for the umpteenth time. It is quite possibly my favorite film of all time. Its right up there with Tender Mercies and Harold and Maude. I haven't read the book, which is a shame, because I've always meant to. I'll add that right now to my 2012 reading list. Anyhow, today's post is inspired by the incredible artistry of the film. Enjoy...

from the film

from the film

from the film

Holiday Gift Guide

2011-12-01T05:07:00.000-08:00

Happy December! Like many of you, this is my favorite time of the year. My husband is a professor and we're able to take advantage of the school schedule and have some time off together as a family. I look forward to it all year.

As I said in a previous post, we're doing a partly hand made Christmas. But I always love to point out some beautiful under-the-tree treasures just in case Santa is reading. Here is my short and sweet holiday gift guide for 2011.

You cannot go wrong with any of the clothing from Peruvian Connection.
But this gorgeous night gown might be my favorite.

Pima Cotton Trellis Nightgown - $118

These beautiful hand loomed towels from Turkish Ts are extremely versatile
and always eco-friendly. They can be used as a bath towel, table cloth,
scarf, wrap skirt, shawl, or even window panels.

Basic Bath Towel from Turkish Ts - $29

These tortoise shell bangles (set of 3)
from Kayes Hughes are so beautiful and simple.

Skinny Bangles from Kayce Hughes - $26

I love the selection of French market bags,
linen totes and jute bags at Shop Greige.

Round Jute Bags from Shop Greige - $149

I love these gorgeous tops from KOKOON.

The fall collections have so many beautiful pieces.

Languid Tee from KOKOON - $79

Languid Sweater from KOKOON - $97

...and remember to enter the Help Charlie Heal Giveaway and win a set of art cards.
Or you can always pick up your own set of art cards HERE.

Cheers,

Bohemian Angels

2011-11-30T05:26:00.000-08:00

I love the flow and ease of the ensembles below. I find that the clothing I prefer to wear resembles more and more the manner in which I decorate my home. They meld in so many ways. Layers. Length. Texture. Antiquity. Bohemian fashion is always informing the design and flow of my home.

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...and remember to enter the Help Charlie Heal Giveaway!

Friends and Sons

2011-11-29T08:04:00.000-08:00

First, for the "Friends" portion of this post. Today, I'm guest posting for Tobe over at Because It's Awesome. Tobe just closed on a new home and needs a little time away from her computer to crack open a bottle of champagne and sign a bajillion pieces of paper where she promises to pay taxes and interest and to love her home very very much! Congrats Tobe - a new home a wonderful thing! Click HERE to read the full post.

And here is a peek at how I would design her new abode...

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And now for the "Sons" portion of my post. I want to remind you that we're giving away FIVE sets of Help Charlie Heal note cards in honor of Charlie's recovery from craniofacial surgery. Thank you for all your emotional and financial support over the past year. My online community has played an enormous part in Charlie's journey. So we're giving away five sets of cards as a thank you! Each print was painted and titled by Charlie's four-year-old brother, Walker. Click HERE to enter. Here is a peek at all eight prints you'll find in in the set:

"Snakes In Love"

"Play Area"

"Orange Train"

"Splatter Picture"

"Stone Thrower"

"Yellow Room"

"The Red Potty"

"Race Track"

Click HERE
to enter the Help Charlie Heal Giveaway!

Help Charlie Heal Giveaway

2011-11-28T05:26:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's been four months since Charlie's craniofacial surgery. As you can imagine, these last few months have been a very important time for recovery, re-assessment and rest for my little guy. In addition to healing from major skull surgery, Charlie is is making enormous strides to overcome the effects of his stroke. He is babbling, cooing, reaching, expressing and growing stronger with each passing day.

In honor of his many triumphs and his continued journey towards a normal life, our family would like to show our deep gratitude by giving away a set of art cards created by Charlie's older brother to five La Maison Boheme readers.

Five winners will receive a set of Art Cards!

The art was hand painted by Charlie's 4-year-old brother, Walker. Each set of cards has eight boldly painted prints, all titled by the artist. The Help Charlie Heal art cards giveaway is our way of saying thank you for your unconditional support, kind words and tender wisdom. Many of you have followed Charlie's journey through his blog and many of you have generously donated to his medical fund. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.

Help Charlie Heal Art Cards

To win one of the five sets of art cards, please leave a comment below. It's that simple. You are welcome to leave Charlie an inspirational quote or some words of encouragement. But all I need is an email address so that I can contact you when you win. The giveaway ends on Sunday, December 4th at midnight (central time). The five winners will be chosen randomly and announced on Monday morning (December 5th).

Want more information about Help Charlie Heal?

Stay updated via Facebook or via the Blog.

All my love and gratitude,

Sarah Saw Something

2011-11-26T06:41:00.000-08:00

It's time for another installment of Sarah Saw Something, where I share little odds and ends that I found interesting around the blogosphere this week.

This home is awesome (via Bliss). The architecture is fun, rustic, modern and perfectly frames the environment that surrounds the home.

This week, I found a beautiful blog (I'm sure I'm the last one to know about it) called Miss Moss. I was totally captivated by these beach photos from the gahetNA National Archives. Here are two of my favorites. Click HERE to see more.

Last night my husband showed me this beautiful video from GetUp.org and I can't stop watching it. We all know it's time.

The Watermark Bindery

2011-11-25T06:08:00.000-08:00

Do you journal? I do. I have since I was about nine years old. Its one of the only habits I've been able to sustain through out most of my life - well, that and eating. A few years ago, my mother-in-law gave me a journal made the Watermark Bindery, a small business based out of Port Townsend, WA. The journal was beautifully made, and did something wonderful: it stayed open when laid flat. I have now scribbled my way through five of these journals. I love them.

As you know, its black Friday. If you want to avoid the malaise of long lines and discounted discontentment being peddled in every corner of the retail world, look no further. These journals, address books and note books are truly beautiful, thoughtful holiday gifts. They are lovingly handmade by a real person with a small business. They are unique, well priced and of the highest quality. You can buy them on the website, on Etsy or at unique small book stores and galleries around the country. (click HERE for a list). Here is a look at the book binding process used at the Watermark Bindery.

Today, I started a new journal from the Watermark Bindery...

"What sort of diary should I like mine to be? Something looseknit and yet not slovenly, so elastic that it will embrace anything, solemn, slight or beautiful that comes into my mind. I should like it to resemble some deep old desk, or capacious hold-all, in which one flings a mass of odds and ends without looking them through." - Virginia Woolf

Give Thanks

2011-11-23T04:49:00.000-08:00

Gratitude is a quality similar to electricity: it must be produced

and discharged and used up in order to exist at all. ~ William Faulkner

Let us be grateful to people who make us happy--they are the charming gardeners
who make our souls blossom. ~ Marcel Proust

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I'm taking the day off tomorrow to be with my family and enjoy a small but delicious meal with the people I love most. My heart is filled with gratitude and joy for the many blessings that fell in my lap this year. This blog continues to be a great source of that joy. So, thank you dear readers for being here and helping to sustain this little corner of the world.

Have a beautiful holiday,

Pattern Under Foot

2011-11-22T06:01:00.000-08:00

Its a gray, damp Tuesday and I'm at home with my kiddos in our pajamas. Despite the weather, I am cheered - as always - by my home. As I look around the house, the thing that cheers me the most, besides the great company, is the eclectic mix of pattern. The only place that lacks big pattern is the floor. Most of my area rugs are a solid color or if they do have pattern, they're on the small side. I'm always drawn towards ethnic weaves, but I also love a bold floral print every once in a while. I'm definitely inspired by the area rugs in the photos below.

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Walker's Room and a Winner!

2011-11-21T05:07:00.000-08:00

First things first - the winner of the Shabby Apple giveaway is #57, Athena!

Congratulations on your beautiful new dress! Athena, I'll be in touch shortly...

And now, on to Walker's new room. Remember THIS post from a few weeks ago? You all had some great ideas for Walker's room, many of which I implemented. Just as you suggested, I went lighter with the wall color and made sure that all of Walker's books were easily accessible for a little guy. Walker had some requests as well - mainly that his fish be closer to his bed and that I keep the window clear of big furniture. He said, "I want to look at our street and watch for ducks or bad guys."

Again, here is a photo of his room before hand. As you can see, it definitely has the baby blue nursery vibe and he had to share it sometimes with his baby brother, Charlie. Walker turned four last week, so he needed his own space - free of the baby stuff.

Here's the new room!

All of the furniture was already in our home, so it was just a matter of re-arranging some things and in some cases, hitting it with a bit of spray paint. The new elements are the huge pull down school house map on the back wall and the floor to ceiling curtains, which I have still yet to hem.

The bolster pillow on the bed , throw pillow on the couch

and the curtains are all IKEA fabrics that I picked up on sale and stitched together.
The paint color on the walls is "Creamy Mushroom" by Behr Paints.

The chevron print pouf is by Aleta Fae, which I won in a
giveaway at Head Over Heels. And the love seat (an old Craigslist find)
is a pull out bed for when Walker has sleep overs.

These sweet prints - a galleon and turn of the century hot air balloon -

are from Collage-O-Rama on Etsy. The frames are IKEA and I spray painted the mattes.

Here's a close-up of the map, which I found for a great price on ebay.

It's from an old old school house in Georgia (1957).

I snagged this cool vintage globe during a sale at The White Woods.
The White Woods has a great little collection of vintage goodies.

And the beautiful quilt on Walker's bed was made by our wedding officiant.

He is an amazing quilter and created this for Walker when he was a baby.

Of course, Walker loves the end result.

His favorite part is the little chair and reading lamp under the window.

Okay, so now comes the time when you tell me what you think!

Any thing that I should add, subtract or re-think?

Sarah Saw Something

2011-11-19T04:01:00.000-08:00

Happy Saturday everyone! It's time for another installment of Sarah Saw Something, where I share little odds and ends that I found interesting around the blogosphere this week. Have a beautiful weekend and remember to check back here on Monday for the reveal of Walker's new big boy room!

I was gobsmacked by Jill's incredible living room makeover at Live.Like.You. You really must go there now - right now - and see it. Click HERE to see the whole she-bang.

I fell in love with this Thanksgiving themed magazine cover in the Art Nouveau style from 1894. Found it at the ever-inspiring Art & Lair.

If you haven't already done so, sign up for the Third Annual Handmade Holiday Gift Swap over at Flights Of Whimsy. I did it last year and it was really fun! Brandi has extended the deadline for participation so that everyone has a chance to sign up. Click HERE for more information.

My mama has a blog about her home in Eastern Oregon and her life as the wife of a locum tenen doctor. She just posted a very cute and funny story complete with blow-by-blow photos of her recent "shopping" trip to find a bathroom sink for her bathroom remodel. (And when I say remodel, I mean that she's turning an old canning porch into a bathroom.) Here's a photo, but to get the whole effect, you really must click HERE to read her post.

And finally, this gorgeous dress is up for grabs in our Shabby Apple giveaway. It ends tomorrow night, so click HERE to enter if you haven't already done so!

Cheers,

Coral Confession

2011-11-18T03:29:00.000-08:00

I used to think that coral was an unusable color. It was too 80's. It was too girly. It was too cruise ship. It always made me think of the the coral and aqua Santa Fe colored upholstery on a love seat in my mom's old beauty shop. And when I say "old" I mean 1985. (So not really "old.)

So here's the scoop. Now, I love it. Thank you Christine and Jenny for making me see the light. These two ladies are always posting pretty coral delights on their blogs and now I'm a fan. I always see it used as a spring color, but I think it belongs with the golds, emeralds, browns, maroons and burnt oranges of autumn. Coral is really a mood and a feeling unto itself. Check it out...

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P.S. Don't forget to enter our current giveaway from Shabby Apple!

Morning Light

2011-11-17T06:42:00.000-08:00

There is nothing like morning light, hard and angular,

to awaken your spirit and renew your hope.

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P.S. Don't forget to enter our current giveaway from Shabby Apple!

Handmade Gifts

2011-11-16T05:24:00.000-08:00

It's going to be a handmade Christmas this year in our home. We're a little short on cash (who isn't these days) and I have a huge stash of fabric in my closet. I saw t his adorable fabric bucket on Lotta Jansdotter's site and thought I'd try it out. They'll make great gifts and can be used for just about anything. I'm not a seamstress by any stretch of the imagination, but I can sew a strait line and do some minor pattern making. So, here are some of the gifts I'll be stitching up this year.

Fabric Basket

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Reusable Napkins

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Zippered Pouches or Clutch

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Place Mats

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Tote Bags or Market Bags

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Monogrammed Computer Sleeve

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Coasters

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Up-cycled Tee Shirt Necklaces

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...and since I'm using a lot of up-cycled materials to make green gifts, I might as well save some money on the wrapping too. I've got lots of brown paper bags and a stack of old copies of The Times lying around. They'll be perfect for wrapping supplies.

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Are you making Christmas gifts this year?

Tell us what you're doing to cut costs and go a little bit green this holiday season!

P.S. Don't forget to enter our current giveaway from Shabby Apple!

Color Cleanse

2011-11-15T06:10:00.000-08:00

...another installment of Color Cleanse. Sometimes I get bogged down by my two or three favorite, go-to colors. I end up using them in everything. That's when I know it's time for a color cleanse. To see previous installments of Color Cleanse click HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE or HERE.

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This weekend, we hosted my four-year-old son's preschool class at our home for an art play date. They kids took bleeding tissue paper and stuck them to a 5x5 inch canvas. When they were done with their mini masterpieces, I sealed them with Modge Podge. Here is a photo of all the pieces together. Didn't they do a lovely job?

P.S. Don't forget to enter our current giveaway from Shabby Apple!

The Jazz Age Giveaway - Shabby Apple

2011-11-14T07:05:00.000-08:00

I love the look, feel and incredible style of the 1920's - particularly the women's dresses. The stockings, dress length, over-sized accessories, close fitting hats and sweet short hair cuts were revolutionary at the time. Ninety years later, they still are.

Here are a few modern looks inspired by 1920's fashion:

Do you love the 20's too? Check out the beautiful collection of

vintage inspired dress from Shabby Apple.

Shabby Apple is offering a 10% off coupon code for any purchase you make in the

next 30 days. To claim your discount, use LAMAISONBOHEME10OFF at check out.

Shabby Apple is also giving away the gorgeous dress below to one lucky reader!

You will love the playful fluttery silhouette of this updated frock.
The holidays are on their way and this would make a great holiday party dress
for you or as a gift for your friend, sister or daughter!

The Fitzgerald Dress by Shabby Apple

Leave a separate comment for each entry. You can enter up to six separate times. You must have a US shipping address to enter this giveaway. I must be able to contact you when you win, so please leave an email in the body of your comment. The giveaway ends on Sunday, November 21st at midnight (central time). I'll chose the winner using random.org and post the results on Monday morning! To enter to win this amazing dress:

1) "Like" Shabby Apple on Facebook.

~~For extra entries:~~

~~2) Be or become a follower of La Maison Boheme - you'll find it over on the sidebar.~~

~~3) "Like" La Maison Boheme on Facebook.~~

~~4) Follow La Maison Boheme on Twitter.~~

~~5) Post about this giveaway on Facebook.~~

~~6) Tweet about this giveaway.~~

Someone is turning four today...

2011-11-12T05:08:00.000-08:00

Let the party begin.

Happy birthday, darling!

I love who you are.

In other news, stay tuned for a
great giveaway on La Maison Boheme starting this Monday!

The Hudson Bay Blanket

2011-11-11T05:00:00.000-08:00

Generations of fur trappers, frontiersmen and Native Americans can't all be wrong. Introduced in 1780, the Hudson Bay Blanket is a keeper for all time. It will never ever ever ever go out of style. Ever. I love them but can't afford the real thing. I might consider some button down shams, though.

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Oh... and on a totally separate note: here's a little something I made yesterday. I was playing with my son's art stash - some bleeding tissue papers. Walker's 4th birthday is tomorrow and we're doing an art project with these papers. I thought I'd give them a whirl before letting the kiddos have at them! I consider the Heron my totem animal. I love these strange and graceful birds. They seem to find me where ever I go.

Saturated Blues

2011-11-10T05:48:00.000-08:00

One of the things I love about collecting photos is that the collection starts to speak to you. Today, I was looking through my files and saw these saturated aqua, cobalt, turquoise, lapis and sapphire hues staring back at me. I guess I'm feeling the blues lately.

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Me, Elsewhere

2011-11-09T05:24:00.000-08:00

Today, I'm guest posting over at Bright, Bold and Beautiful. Laura asked me to join her "I'm thankful for..." series. It was a bit tortuous narrowing the "grateful field" down to only three things, but I did it. Here's a little hint:

Click HERE to visit Bright Bold and Beautiful and see my full post.

And just for fun...
Here is a little sneak peek at Walker's new big boy room. We painted this past Saturday.
I'll post the full photos when the room is complete, but until then:

If these walls could talk...

2011-11-08T05:28:00.000-08:00

My home was built in 1971. There is nothing special about my walls. Their construction and their history is pretty mundane. But the walls in the photos below have a story to tell that begins well before the Nixon administration. If these walls could talk, I wonder what they'd say.

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Dreamy Creative Spaces and a Winner

2011-11-07T06:00:00.000-08:00

Everybody needs a little

space to dream.

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Flickr

And...

the winner of the Easy Canvas Prints Giveaway is number 24:

Mommydoll13. Congrats!

Sarah Saw Something

2011-11-05T04:44:00.000-07:00

Hello lovely readers... time for another installment of Sarah Saw Something, where I share little odds and ends that I found interesting around the blogosphere this week. Hope you had a good one!

I am in love with this mustard settee that I spied in the holiday issue of House of Fifty. The pink and turquoise pillows paired with the black and white graphic rug are pure awesomeness.

This video posted by Amanda at Blue LaReve is a stunning display of nature's beauty, changeability and mystery.

THIS incredible list of creative art materials, tools and equipment via Play at Home Mom. If you are a mama who encourages creative arts and play at home, then this is a not-to-be-missed blog.

And lastly, Monday was Halloween and I couldn't let the week go by without posting Walker in his pirate costume.

And here's one of Charlie too. He just hit 15 months this week and got his first haircut!

P.S. Don't forget to enter our giveaway!
You could win $70 in gift cards towards a canvas print from Easy Canvas Prints.
Click HERE to enter!

Three Year Blogiversary

2011-11-04T05:00:00.000-07:00

I was reading THIS post yesterday, celebrating The Zhush's two year anniversary and I thought, "Hey, this sounds familiar." I checked my first post and sure enough, it's dated November 3, 2008. I'm like that neglectful husband who always forgets his anniversary. Ah, who cares... so I'm celebrating a day late!

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This blog started three years ago as a whim and has become one of my most treasured parts of the day. I had no idea how important this blog would be to me when I began. Thank you for being here, for reading, and for helping me create my own little bit of heavenly cloud in the cyber-sky. Truly, thank you.

Don't forget to enter our current giveaway!

Click HERE to enter.