“There are times when wisdom cannot be found in the chambers of parliament or the halls of academia but at the unpretentious setting of the kitchen table.” -E.A. Bucchianeri

I don't know about you, but at our house we basically live in the kitchen.  Whether we're gathered around the table playing card games, scrounging through the cupboards or fridge for a snack, cooking a meal, or just sitting at the bar reflecting on our day--- you can pretty much always find someone in the kitchen.  Sound familiar?  

It's been found that 70-80% of our time in the home is spent in, you guessed it, the kitchen!  It's also one of the strongest selling features of a home, and the room most likely to be remodeled.  Since the kitchen is literally the control center of the home, it's one of the rooms you should love very most!

Do you love your kitchen??  What would you change about it, if you could change anything?

While the definition of a "dream kitchen" is different for everyone, there are several important factors to consider when designing your perfect kitchen.   If you're looking to relocate or remodel your kitchen anytime soon, make sure you think about these items:

- adequate storage

- lighting

- ventilation

- counter & appliance space

- plumbing and electrical

- functionality

- trash receptacle locations

- basic shape

- size

- decor

Now, here are some inspiring kitchens that are pretty close to perfect in my book.....

via Atlanta Homes and Lifestyle

via Fieldstone Hill Design

via B.A.S.

via Decor Pad

What makes a perfect kitchen for you? 

Wood floors are always in style, but lately there's been a resurgence of pickled or bleach wood floors in the design world.  More and more people are using lighter woods for floors and cabinetry, resulting in fresh and radiant kitchens and living spaces.  I love this elegantly understated, clean look.  So simple and minimal, yet absolutely gorgeous.  What do you think?  Do you love it, or can you live without it?

via Decor Pad

via Freshome

via HGTV

"I have too much closet space!"---- said no one ever. Right?  I can't even imagine how wonderful that predicament would be! 

A couple months ago we moved to a darling little house that was originally built in 1937.  It's cozy, quaint, newly renovated, and perfect for our little family.  However, in addition to the charm of an old house, we get itty bitty teeny tiny sized closets.  You guys, we are basically talking little cupboards in the bedrooms.  I loved everything else about the house though, and so I figured I'd just have to get creative when it came to storing my clothing.  

Well, that time has now come.  I need a clothing/shoe storing miracle.  (Anyone have any good ideas for me?)  I've considered the whole exposed closet idea, but I'm pretty sure it would look disastrous after the first 24 hours.  Instead of looking chic and cool, the disorganized, junky clutter would probably give me anxiety attacks.  They photos below of exposed closets are sure beautiful, but seriously, does anyone out there keep their closets that perfect?  I highly doubt it.....

via Apartment Therapy

via Spearmint Baby

via Domain

via Coco Rosa

 How do you store your clothes/shoes/bags/accessories in small spaces?

If you're in the market to re-furnish a room or two, you've picked a great time!  There are so many beautiful choices out there right now.  Check out some of my favorite new and semi-new furniture pieces that we are carrying..... just be prepared to want to buy!

1, 2, 3

1, 2, 3, 4

1, 2, 3

1, 2, 3

 Aren't they gorgeous??

It's tomato season!  Bring on the gazpacho, salsa, and tomato sandwiches.  While almost nothing beats a freshly picked tomato from the garden with a little salt and pepper sprinkled on top, I think this garlic tomato recipe just might!  This recipe is the stuff dreams are made of.  So, if you're a tomato lover (or heck, even if you aren't so much), make this recipe and prepare to be wowed.  It really is that good!!

Garlic Tomatoes

2-5 large tomatoes

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tsp. lemon juice

2 cloves garlic- chopped

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. pepper

1 tsp. oregano

1 Tbsp. sugar

Combine oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt ,pepper, oregano and sugar.  Peel (optional) and cut tomatoes into thick slices.  

Place sliced tomatoes in a casserole dish.  Pour marinade over top and refrigerate for 2 or more hours.  Can top with feta or blue cheese if desired.

 ENJOY!!!!

 P.S. If you want a delicious sandwich, pop a few of these babies on focaccia bread and you'll go straight to heaven.