Images via Cote de Texas & Mr. & Mrs. Smith

But back to the City of Light- I really love the images I found by Etsy photographer Vita Nostra. Fantastic scenes from various parts of Paris.

As I panic about what to pack (it’s going to be cold!) I put together two outfits I wish i could bring with me!

For daytime walking (which I did about 8 hours of daily the last time I was in Paris…)

And for dinner out at night….

The guest room is coming along, I love the marble mantle and my new IKEA bed and Jill Rosenwald rug- but most of all I was psyched about this adorable skeepskin stool I found at Diseno Bos- handmade in Patagonia and so friggin’ cool!

My bedroom is coming along nicely- we painted the walls Elephant Skin by Behr and I LOOOOOOVE it. Popped up drapes from IKEA, reupholstered my bench in a Duralee leopard print and put down my eBay heriz rug! The bedding is linen coral border by Lands End I previously blogged about- while it’s a HUGE duvet and gets quite wrinkly, I love the weight and the color.

Andrew built our first fire in the fireplace (and watched football). We have no couch or chairs yet and the dogs are PISSED.

I have been wearing this Kate Spade locket my mom got me for Xmas all the time! I keep anxiety meds in it, naturally.

I stayed at the fabulous James Hotel in Chicago. Loved it.

In between meetings my friend and I had amazing lattes at Julius Meinl. Yum. And how great are those mugs?

I got to see Jayson Home & Garden in person! Such a lovely shop I’ve been sourcing from for years online.

These pillows for a client’s sunroom came out AMAZING. I didn’t want to part with them!

How gorgeous is the coffee table top from Mohr & McPherson? Such an amazing print!

I am thankful for….

… you, my readers, who have kept me eager to get up early and post whatever I can to inspire you (and I). I shall never tire of doing this.

… my job, at which I get to be my own boss, express my creativity and create a company which I hope will continue to grow.

… for my exceptional, lovely and dedicated assistant, Lindsey Retelle, who continues to amaze me daily with her organization, commitment and wonderful eye for design. We should all be so lucky to have someone like her working for us.

… for my two furry children, Bax and Ollie, who continue to make me smile through the tears, love unconditionally and appreciate a nice walk on a sunny day (we agree not to out when it’s raining).

… for my friends who make me laugh until my stomach hurts, push myself further than I thought and share good bottles of wine with.

… for my family who brought me into this world (and can take me out), loves and supports me and takes me on lovely vacations. :)

… my husband, the most patient, kind, loving man internet dating ever produced.  The person that truly exemplifies unconditional love, courage, humor and a glass is half full attitude.  I am a lucky, lucky woman.

Thank you.