Tuscan kitchen ceiling

Since the gathering of ideas has begun, I have noticed Mark's attraction to lighting and beamed ceilings. In the home I grew up in, there were exposed beams at the 'seam' of the ceiling and it added so much to the room; even if it was only noticed subconsciously.

Though I would change quite a bit in this kitchen, I do love the space, the chandelier (I have a thing for non-traditionally-placed chandeliers), the elaborate ceiling, and the fresh air feel the broad window over the sink gives. I think I'd love to spend all my free time cooking, or sitting, and staring.

large farmhouse sink

This ample sink is perfect for so many things, I shall make a list:
1. preparing flower arrangements
2. washing off garden vegetables
3. washing off muddy shoes
4. cleaning off trowels and garden hoes
5. bathing Buckwheat

I would strategically place this goodly sink between our house's backdoor (probably connected in close proximity to the kitchen), back patio and garage. I would prefer if it were still in a covered outdoor area (almost like an outdoor room or hallway) just so there could be heating lamps and ceiling fans placed through there and remain cozy and comfortable with all the convenience of still being outside. Keeping in mind the place for this sink is no larger than a wide hallway. What a vision I have for this perfectly beautiful sink.

Our little dog, Buckwheat gets copious amounts of baths. He always tries to hide under the bed until he thinks I've given up the search for him. I don't blame him; bath time is not fun for either of us. For him: squirming and fighting to get away from the pouring spout while I'm trying to rinse off the shampoo. For me: trying to keep the bathing room as dry as I can while attempting to calm our small, shaking dog. If this is what I had, clean up would be a breeze, and it would probably be a more tranquil experience if the spout were high and out of the way for rinsing. Simply perfect.

stone walled kitchen

No this is not a war-term. This was Mark's first 'verbal submission' to blogging. He actually opted for this picture in our catalog to be blogged about. He said to me, "Here, put this on our website." He's taken his first baby step.

When changing addresses with the USPS, I subscribed to a few different magazines. Smith & Hawken is a company that, I think, resembles Pottery Barn.

Browsing through their Christmas In the Garden catalog was very pleasant! There were so many 'ideas' in there: for gifts, for our future home, for Christmas decor, etc. Mark and I love the idea of having stone somewhere in or on our house; somewhere, it's just beautiful.

glitter snowflake sphere

It is officially December, and thus we bring in the month that holds Christmas. Decorating for Christmas is one of Mark's favorite things to do every year. It definitely brings out the cheer in a person, so celebrating it with loved ones is usually why so many have such fond memories of this season.

I thank the glitter and metallics for a good part of the cheer. Decorations are an expression of the spirit. And when the spirit rejoices in this special holiday, so should the homes.