Christmas in Germany

Our family was lucky enough to "hop over the pond" at Thanksgiving time and spend a week with our family in Germany. The Christmas markets were just opening up on our last days, so I thought I would share some "Gemuetlichkeit" with you. The old fashioned ambience and Christmas feel was a real treat- a totally different experience from the hustle and bustle that Americans have during the holidays. Stroll through the picturesque town with me and enjoy the market while sipping your cocoa or Gluehwein ( a spiced wine that is served warm)!

Great architecture in Rothenberg:


Christmas Markets in Stuttgart:

Trader Joe's- A Field Trip

Who doesn't like a good field trip! A couple of girlfriends and I traveled to Trader Joe's today. I had to share some of the pictures with you because this store has taken visual merchandising of food to a new level! I love this store, and could probably camp out there, but we did have to get home to our Little Ones! Of course, a bit of lunch was eaten. The fabulous margaritas were Cactus Flower- look at that color!

Trader Joe's


Like a European Flower Market

Orchids in every size and shape

Elevating the visual display of cookies

Not such a secret- "$2 Buck Chuck" wine by the case

I even like the grocery carts

And finally, Cactus Flower margaritas- shopping is very hard work!

Sailing Away

Images of a fleeting summer...

Shoreline and Lighthouse on a picturesque day along Lake Michigan.

Happy Weekend!

Summer Living

Sunny day, Warm weather, Open-roof convertible, Old-fashioned soda fountain, Boats bobbing in the water.

What more do you need on a perfect weekend day?

Happy Monday!

IKEA Shopping Trip

It's raining, it's pouring- the perfect day to visit my favorite big box store- IKEA!

From storage solutions to creative merchandising and design, if Ikea does not sell it, you probably do not need it! European influence and a modern look gives Ikea their own look. Clever design makes ordinary pieces stand out and work in most spaces. Even everyday objects are given a twist to make them less mainstream. Of course, you also cannot go wrong with Ikea prices. I admit- what I really like- are their awesome escalators for your shopping carts! They transport your goods right next to you on their own escalator line- great idea!

Check it out!

Miscellaneus finds and creative displays:

Ikea carries a great selection of funky fabrics and rugs as well as furniture, bedding, kitchen needs, lighting, and accessories. Seasonal items are also available- right now its a bit more garden settings than at other times of the year.

Office and creative outlets:
Storage, storage, storage! Also some great funky to useful office chairs and desks.

Bedrooms and closet solutions:

Small space, large space- you can still have a closet according to Ikea.

Kitchens and in-store restaurant:

Ikea is known for creative kitchen solutions. They also carry a wide variety of china, utensils, and kitchen accessories.

Living spaces:

Build the bookshelf of your dreams- this one was about 25 feet high!

A Southern Jewel- Fairhope Alabama

Pictures from our newly adopted town- Fairhope, Alabama!

Fairhope, Alabama is an artsy, Norman Rockwell-esque, kind of city. Its quaint downtown, filled with shops, galleries, and restaurants, beckon visitors to browse. The flowering sidewalks, sunny weather, and architecture add to the appeal. Then, of course, throw in a gorgeous waterfront and pier, and this makes Fairhope a vacation spot to live in!

Fairhope, Alabama is located on the Bay of Mobile along the Gulf Shores.