Bonnie Blue Bell

Today I'd like to share a picture of a little doll that my mother once played with.  It was hand made by either my grandmother or great grandmother in the 1940's.  I think it would technically be considered folk art today.   I really admire the handy needle work that was put into it.  I'm not sure how they colored her jacket and skirt flowers but they appear to be some sort of dye that was painted on. 
I think she is really sweet and like the fact that whoever created her added a ball in her hand.

If I were more talented with a needle, I'd entertain the thought of recreating her...I can picture other dolls with ringlets and holding kittens, puppies or flowers...

Bike Ride Scenery

My husband & I went on our first bike ride of the season.  We biked ten miles around Lake of the Isles, Lake Calhoun & Lake Harriet.  There are some really beautiful houses along the lake. We both agree that the scenery keeps us going because we're always waiting to get a glimpse of the next spectacular thing.  I stopped along the way to take a few pics. Here they are.  Enjoy!

This house even has a gargoyle to keep watch over the yard.  I do love gargoyles!

Oh yeah, let's not forget the lakes.  I can't say they were too stunning today because it was so cloudy...I'll share some pics of the lakes when we go back later this summer.  Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to collapse on the couch for some much needed rest!  

Focal Point

I once read that the focal point of any bedroom should be the bed.  So go all out and make that bed amazing.  Add some great pillows.  Layer the bedding using different textures.  Hang a beautiful blanket at the head or curtains as this creative person did.
This room is from a model home we toured recently. The bedroom was VERY small but the amazing decorating made it feel cozy. 

They used coarse burlap for the bed skirt.  The texture of it gave the room a fresh, spring like feeling.

This last picture is of the master bedroom in the same house.  It would be very easy to put this grouping together.  This picture doesn't do them justice but I fell in love with the plaster casts hanging above the bed.  I have no idea where to even find something like that...