Sunday, June 17, 2012

My Lucky Month

Some Amazing Finds



This is my lucky month for new stuff.  New Accessories are a pretty big deal for me.  Living in a small space with lots of boys means that I pass up almost everything cute that I see, on purpose.  I love the way stuff looks in stores but absolutely CRAVE clutter-free and family-friendly spaces.  It's a bit of a battle I have with myself - "Should I buy it?"  "But where will I put it?" And then most importantly, "Does it work with my decor?" It's rare that I find those 'just right' gems.  Especially being budget-conscious. 


This has been a lucky time. 

Here are a few of my finds, plus some lovely gifts. 

I've been looking for black and white floral plates for over a year now, to replace a couple that um, fell off the wall.  (Yes, I live in a house with lots of energetic children).  I even looked around on the internet and couldn't find exactly what I wanted.  I've been patiently waiting..........

My find of the month!!!!

Black and White Plates

I'm always combing discount stores (Ross, TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Tuesday Morning) for black and white plates, and they have been surprisingly difficult to find. 


I was able to purchase several of these at TJ Maxx for 2.99 each.

Then at another of my favorite shops, Tuesday Morning, I came across this plate. 




One of my favorite stores had these birdcages for sale in the garden department.  LOVE!




Another find:  the perfect butter dish. 


Keep Calm and Carry on and Eat More Butter!! Enough said.


My husband picked up this table runner at a local shop.  It perfectly fits my french decor.  Translation: A Garden of French Lavender. 



And from my sister, who's great at spotting something perfect for me :) 



It's the classic fork and spoon, just like my Grandparents had, but really COOL!  I love that it fits my decor, and brings a flood of good memories, all at once.

And from my very talented mother, the Paris bag. 



She has a rare gift with color and fabric, and has become very good at making these adorable purses and bags.  Could this one fit me any better?? 

In the Kitchen


Speaking of butter, I'm thrilled about my Rhubarb Custard Pie.  I finally had time to make it.  I was really inspired by this one, and decided to try it.  I'm very glad I did.





This is the easiest custard ever.  Sugar, flour, and salt, whisked together, and then eggs and milk stirred in. 


You just pour in the mixture over the rhubarb and dot the top with butter. 



You can make a pretty lattice top if you want.  Or not.  I obviously can't weave, if you look closely. 




Voila!! It was tasty, but I'm not sure the custard set up because it was a bit watery.  I'd better check back through the recipe hints and see if I can do it better next time.  I think I was a little loose with the milk and the butter.  :)

The pie was the end of our lovely Father's Day dinner.  Simple salad, homeade vinagrette, grilled shrimp, and rice pilaf. 




Happy Father's Day





Would like to quickly say how lucky the kids and I are to have such a great Daddy in our home!  He is definitely the fun one, and very adored by all of us.  We are very blessed!  I love you so much, Eric.


Capturing a Moment


My little girl just turned two.  Yep, it's that whole growing up thing, it really stinks sometimes.  I have always wished I had a 'pause' button, where I could stop my busy schedule and savor those precious moments with my little ones just a bit longer.... 



My lavender looks the same every year.  I can count on it.  But my baby, she sure is changing fast. 





Happy Birthday, Charlotte!!

Coming Up:  More aprons, I got a new couch (REALLY!), I'm knitting a couple of heirlooms, and more remodeling. 

2 comments:

  1. What great finds! I was planning a trip to my local TJMaxx soon, hope I find some pretty goodies too! And I do think you are one of the only people I've found who likes rhubarb too! That pie looks SO good, I'm going to have to try making one... I like to make rhubarb crisp and rhubarb bread!

    Tania

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  2. Thanks Tania, and Happy Treasure Hunting :)

    Nancy

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