Orderly ~ Ahhh!

Here I go harping about orderly areas again.  What can I say, except order for me brings a sense of calm. And what better way to organize everyday essentials like makeup brushes, cotton balls and Q-tips, than to stash them in pretty little containers?

I started with a platter (you could also use a tray of some sort) to corral all the smaller containers.  This one is a favorite of mine ~ authentic crackled ironstone ~ that has aged so beautifully.  I came across it on a junking trip.

Then I assembled a group of random holders together ~ according to my particular needs and the space I had available.  I used various ironstone or restaurant ware cups, bowls and creamers that I found at flea markets or thrift stores.  These are inexpensive and still pretty easy to come by ~ each of these cost a buck or less.

Next ~ I added a Venetian Murano glass mirror that I got in Italy a few years ago.  It's a little indulgence that makes me feel pampered ~ everyone needs a little pampering every now and then ~ don't you think?  

  

I also placed a miniature clock on the platter  ~ to keep me on schedule or at least try to.  :)

And voila ~ a pretty little organizational spot for everyday essentials.  I'm off to spend time with family  visiting from out of town.  I would love to hear about some of your organizational tips and tricks.  I hope you have a happy weekend!

White ~ Always the Perfect Choice

Light, bright, clean and white!

The absence of color is soothing to me. It’s not that I don’t like color; I just like the absence of it a little more. In this technology driven age, where there is an overabundance of visual stimulation, I find myself craving the simplicity of a neutral environment. I eagerly anticipate entering my home, and settling into my calming retreat.

My love of white extends beyond the design of my home, its art and accessories and extends to my choice of dishware as well. Over time, I have accumulated quite the motley collection of wonderful old ironstone and restaurant ware. I thought I might share a few of my favorite pieces with you:

I run across hodgepodge pieces like these gravy boats and pitchers at thrift stores, garage sales and flea markets and rarely pay more than a dollar for any of them.

I like the beauty and simplicity of old restaurant ware. It is solid and has stood the test of time. I can only imagine some of the conversations that were overheard by these dishes down through the years.

I enjoy serving meals off of these wonderful oval restaurant plates.

Papa’s favorite cereal bowl; he also loved to eat Fritos or cornbread with buttermilk from these.

The beautiful soup tureen was given to me by mom, affectionately called Mimi.

The hobnail milk glasses were a gift from my sister-in-law, Datha. The tablecloth a dreamy purchase from Anthropologie's clearance table.

I love setting a table with white dishes; the presentation of any food against the white backdrop makes it look all the yummier! For me, white is always the perfect choice.