New Year's Resolutions

It's resolution time again and this year (in no particular order) I will.........

1.  Be more present in the moment instead of always looking to the future (I guess that's the planner in me).

2.  Sew most of my children's clothing (aside from some of the basics like socks and onesies, ect) and try to stay away from Gymboree as much as possible.

3.  Attempt to buy more organic/locally grown produce.

4.  Open my etsy shop (The Cottage Mama) to sell my handmade girls clothing.

5.  Organize my office and turn it into my crafting room - might need the hubby's help for this one (wink, wink, if you are reading this, dear husband of mine).

6.  Follow through and finish all the projects I start.

7.  Continue to only give handmade gifts whether I make them or support others who craft handmade goods.

8.  Go outside more and enjoy nature with my family.

9.  Continue to blog.

10.  Learn to live on less.

11.  Remain focused and centered on my number one job;  being a truly good wife and mother.

Cottage Mama's Note:  Ok, so now I've put all of my resolutions out there for the world to see.  Hopefully this will help me to hold myself more accountable and really stay focused this next year.

What are some of your New Year's resolutions?

I wish all of you a very happy and healthy 2010!!

Happy New Year!

Make a Wish for 2010

Happy New Year ... I hope all your wishes come true!

via BBB flickr group

Thank you to everyone who made 2009 such a spectacular year for Bright, Bold, and Beautiful!

I look forward to making many new friendships in 2010.

Goals for 2010

One of my goals is to make

Bright, Bold, and Beautiful better than ever!

Bold interviews, bright ideas, and beautiful images

to give you inspiration to use in your daily life.

I am excited, so be sure to follow me on this adventure.

I promise not to disappoint you.

via BBB flickr group

What are your Goals and Resolutions for 2010? Rather than making a resolution, and stopping there, write down your goals,

and how you will achieve them.

Post your list on your fridge or bulletin board ~~ somewhere you will see it every day. As I stated in my previous post, put it on the wall. You will never follow through with your goals

if they are stuffed in your drawer.

Modern Bedroom Interior Design | Bedroom Interior Design

Modern Bedroom Interior Design

Bedroom Interior Design


Modern Bedroom Interior Design


Modern Bedroom Decoration


Modern Bedroom blue Colour


Blue Modern Bedroom

Bedroom Design Ideas- Decorating Ideas For Modern Bedroom

Whether you have just shifted to your new home or want to give a makeover to your old master bedroom,you need some exclusive ideas to make your bedroom design stand out.Having a spacious bedroom does not necessarily mean that you need to fill it up with an array of furniture.It only needs to combine all the bedroom designing elements together to create an ambience.Bedroom has to be warm and cozy to ensure good night's sleep.

Decorate in Style

If you choose to decorate your bedroom by yourself instead of hiring a professional interior designer then you need prior research work.Giving your bedroom a new look is not a tough job provided you have some creative ideas up your sleeves. You will find myriads websites ready to offer innovative interior design ideas.Traditional or contemporary,oriental or western or simply eclectic – pick your style first. Decorating by style reflects good taste and artistic sense.It will also help you proceed in a systematic way while choosing furniture,fabrics and other decorative items for your bedroom.

Color is the Key

Choose colors for your bedroom wisely as colors play a key role in creating the desired mood.If you want to make your large bedroom feel comfy and warm you need brighter shades like orange, lemon yellow or rosy pink.You can think of contrast coloring schemes as well.But for smaller rooms it is advisable that you do not go overboard with colors.Lighter and cooler shades like cream,pale blue or light purple are just fine with small bedrooms.

Furnishing Fundamental

It is needless to say that your bed is the focal point in your bedroom.It is better to divide the bedroom into different zones especially when you have a large one.It makes the entire decorating process easier.Large bedroom with wide windows require larger furniture while smaller bedrooms call for space saving furniture and low-lying beds.
High king size bed
with double mattress and fluffy pillows will perfectly fit in to a large picture.Position the bed against the wall in a way so that anyone entering the room cannot see it from outside.In this respect a well-decorated hotel room can be a good inspiration for designing a bedroom. Place a chic looking chest or cabinet at the foot of the bed to keep television on top of it.It also adds little more privacy to the sleeping area.
Choose large wardrobe and wall-mirrors for the dressing zone. Small wooden desk with table lamp and set of cushioned chairs in a corner can ideally create a cozy reading or lounging area in your bedroom. When it comes to selecting bedside tables and lamps go for round shaped ones rather than square ones if you go for traditional style.Modern bedside lamps come in varied shapes and size to choose from.

Textile Texture

Pick fabric wisely for your bedroom as it relates to comfort as well as privacy.Bedroom windows need double layers of curtains.Long and heavy drapes are to bar the sunlight and cold. Thin light-colored linen curtains ensure privacy while allowing ample sunlight during daytime.For pillow and cushion covers choose fabrics with attractive colors and fine texture. Bedroom is all about rest and comfort.Wide range of fabrics with different textures and price range are available in the market.So,look for variety of fabrics as much as possible before you select one for your bedroom.
Use your imagination and bedroom design ideas to create your own style statement.Hang intricately designed tapestries or a colorful painting with soft wall-lamps focusing on it at the head of the bed.You can not buy anything that appeal to your senses.Choose pieces of art work and tapestries depending on the mood and style of your bedroom design. Placing potted plants by the bed or window brings soothing touch of nature as well.Flowers and floral art works also add to the romantic charm of a bedroom.To be precise,a good amalgamation of your creativity and interior decorating tips given by experts is sure to create the spark in your bedroom decor.

bedroom interior design | Bedroom Interior Design Ideas

bedroom interior design

Bedroom Interior Design


Bedroom Interior Ideas


Modern Bedroom Interior Design


Bedroom Interior Design

Your Bedroom interior design is crucial because the bedroom is the inner sanctum sanctorum of any house. A bedroom is the place you go to relax and just unwind after a long and sometimes stressful day.

Therefore, it is important then that the bedroom is designed to fulfill your needs. Not only does this room need to look good to the eyes but also must be soothing to the soul.

A bedroom design can be a challenging task because not only is the bedroom a very romantic place but in this age where stress takes its toll on many, a good night's sleep is an increasingly rare commodity.

Before you begin tearing down the walls, it makes sense to talk over the design plans with your partner, if you have one. A romantic bedroom should reflect both people's ideals.

Add some personal flavor that touch both of you at the same time. Pictures from a vacation or a picnic or from a romantic getaway can be great. Make sure that the lighting is just right for both of you.

If one of you likes to read late into the night, it may be better to install personal lighting. Soft lighting can create a good mood and some soft rugs can complement it. If you like, you can add an incense burner or potpourri to get you in the mood.

A bedroom is a place for rest and relaxation. The bedroom interior design needs to take that in to account. The beds that you choose should have adequate dimensions to accommodate you easily.
The mattresses should just feel right. A lot of people are increasingly falling prey to sleep disorders, and improper beds are contributing a lot of pain directly and indirectly in their cases.

Make sure that the coverings are just right. Duvets, quilts, comforters and sheets should not be very heavy. They should also feel good to your skin.

Bedrooms are our last refuge; they are where we end up after a long day at work and play. They need to be our own and their designs need to reflect who we are.

Bedroom designs, therefore, require definite planning and a lot of thought. A bedroom interior design needs input from the bedroom occupants and a lot of creativity, so get yourself a good designer and rest assured that every dime is well spent in the long run.

The bottom line: whether you redo your bedroom interior design yourself or hire someone, make sure that the overall look and theme match you and your partners personalities. Again, it cannot be emphasized enough-there are few rooms in the home as important as the bedroom. If you like your bedroom interior design, it will go a long way to enabling you to live a happy and stress free life.

master bedroom interior design | Bedroom Interior Design

master bedroom interior design

Bedroom Interior Design


Master Bedroom Interior Design


Master Bedroom Indeas


Master Bedroom Decoration

How To Decorate Master Bedroom 5 Tips

How do you go about decorating a master bedroom? There are several key decisions that need to be made, and all are of equal importance in your bedroom interior design and decor.

First, determine how your furniture is going to be placed in the master bedroom. Is a sitting area a possibility in the space? What size bed do you have, or plan to have, and will it fit comfortably into the room? I have worked with clients who want to increase the size of their bed, but it doesn't fit well in their room. You want to have about two feet minimum on either side of the bed for easy access.

Determining the focal point of the room is key in decorating a master bedroom as well as other rooms. When you walk into the space where are your eyes drawn? It might be a beautiful view out a window or door wall, possibly the largest wall in the room, or it could be a lovely fireplace. Whatever the case, place the bed so that it is on the focal point wall or facing the focal point whenever possible.

You might consider painting the focal point wall an accent color, either a deeper shade of your selected wall color or another color in your palette. Just remember as you select these shades that the overall effect of decorating ideas for the master bedroom is soothing and calming.

Avoid overcrowding your master bedroom with furniture and clutter. If you have inherited an antique bedroom set that can barely be squeezed into your space, eliminate one of the pieces and use it in another room. Utilize the drawers in nightstands, dressers and the space in your closet keep thing out of sight. Scout around your house or do some shopping to find unique pieces that can be used as storage.

If your master bedroom suite is large enough to accommodate a sitting area, select a chair (or a pair of chairs) that are comfortable and upholstered, with soft edges and corners.

The next bedroom decor idea for the master bedroom is the color palette for the space. Most of the time you will find that neutral type colors on the walls work best, as they have a soothing presence. Note that 'white walls' were not mentioned. There are literally hundreds of shades of neutrals that will give warmth, interest and cohesiveness to the master bedroom decor and serve as a backdrop to the accent colors in the room.

The accent colors when decorating a master bedroom should include at least one, preferably two colors that appear in other rooms of your home. That way you are being consistent in your color scheme from room to room. It is perfectly fine to introduce a new color in the master bedroom makeover, as it gives the space personality and uniqueness.

Lighting is the next significant element in decorating a master bedroom. Generally you will have a combination of lighting. Task lighting includes a light next the the bed for reading; you'll have mood lighting, which could be a chandelier or ceiling fan with a dimmer switch. You may also have a lamp or two in the room for warm, moderate lighting. Try to stay away from one overhead light with a bright, glaring globe. Definitely not a mood setter!

The specifics of accessories such as bed dressings, window treatments and artwork are very personal, according to your home's style and decor when decorating a master bedroom. For example, having an array of pillows in varying shapes and sizes looks inviting and romantic, and would look great in many decor styles. However, if your style is contemporary to modern, it will look out of place.

Other master bedroom decor and makeover ideas include the use of small area rugs in the room, both for comfort and decor style. Window treatments should allow light in during the day but provide for privacy at night. Soften the windows/doorwalls with fabric, such as a valance or side panels. Bed dressings are available in every size, pattern and price point, so the decision there will depend upon the decor style you are creating. Not sure what your style is? Find out more here!

The most important concept for decorating a master bedroom is to make certain that you have the things you love surrounding you. When you walk into that room, you want to feel absolutely comfortable, safe and secure, and that includes seeing the artwork and accessories that you love. No matter where you live or how often you move, surrounding yourself with the things your love in the privacy of the master bedroom will help make the house your home.

What to do with ALL those Christmas cards?

Over the last month I have certainly enjoyed all of the wonderful Christmas cards we have received in the mail from our friends and family.  It's so nice to see what everyone has been up to and how the little ones have grown.  But now that Christmas is over, what do we do with ALL of those holiday cards?

Well, you could recycle them, that would be one option.  Lately I have really been into repurposing items, so rather than get rid of your cards, why not turn them into something useful?  Why not turn them into gift tags for next year?!  That's what I did!

My Grandma Peggy had given me this idea several years ago, but I have finally decided to put it into action.  Thanks Grandma!!  All you have to do is gather up all the holiday cards you have received (personally I don't cut up the ones with family pictures - those are still on the fridge for display).  Cut out whatever shape you like (circles, squares, hearts, tag shape) out of your cards, punch a whole in your shape, thread a ribbon through and presto - you have your gift tags for next year!

Completed Gift Tags

I love not being wasteful and this is a great way to use up all of those beautiful cards.  And better yet, when you are doing your holiday gift wrapping next year, you can look at the tags and think of your loving friends and family.

Organizing Tips

It is almost 2010, and you know what that means...

Time to Get Organized.

I need to see what is important; therefore, using wall space is a must.

If presented in the right way, your organizers

become part of the room's design and decor.

You can't beat the modular daily system from Pottery Barn. Everything at eye level.

I love wire baskets ~~ you can see what is inside!

Create your own inspiration board rather

than putting your ideas in the drawer

{where you will forget about them}

Instead of throwing your ribbon and thread in a box, I love this DIY ribbon organizer to see what you have!

More ways to follow BB&B

shop * facebook * twitter * bloglovin * tumblr

Community Supported Agriculture - CSA Programs

One of my top New Year's resolutions this year is to incorporate more organic food into my family's diet.  I feel like I have fallen off the wagon lately when it comes to what we are putting into our bodies.  The more I hear about what the effects of pesticides and growth hormones are having on us, I feel it is my responsibility as a mother, and as the main cook in our household, to take charge of what my family is putting into their bodies.

Are you familiar with the Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs in your area?  Or have you heard of CSA?  I have tried in the past to incorporate as much organic into our diets as possible, but sometimes those cheaper prices get me.  Organic produce, meat, and dairy is often quite a bit more money in our regular supermarkets; however, there are ways to save on these items.  This is where CSA programs come into play.

Here's how it works:
With a CSA program, a local farm offers a specific number of "shares" to the public for the growing season.  You buy into the farm by purchasing a share (which will feed a family of 4) or you can purchase a half-share, if you are not sure about the level of produce you will be using.  Each week (or every other week if you are doing a half-share), you go to the farm to pick up your box of organically grown produce.  Some farms have other designated pick-up spots, if the farm is not in your exact town.

Most CSA's are geared towards vegetables; however, some include flowers, herbs, and a little fruit.  A share is somewhat equivalent to a paper grocery bag full of vegetables.  You can also purchase fruit only shares through some farms and add-on organic eggs and chicken to your weekly pick-up.

Through the CSA you will get to know your specific farmer and exactly where your food is coming from.  I know that, if I am going to be spending a little bit more money purchasing organic food, I would prefer to know that my money is going to support our local farmer's.  Most farms encourage families to come out for a visit.  This is a wonderful way to educate your children on the workings of a farm and to show them where the food they eat comes from.  Additionally, if you have a picky eater, they may be more likely to eat the produce they have seen harvested first-hand.  Some farms have volunteer opportunities and gatherings for CSA members as well.

I highly suggest you check out the CSA programs in your area.  Most farms are taking CSA applications for the 2010 growing season right now - if you are interested, sign-up as soon as possible because shares fill up quickly and you might miss out.  Go to www.localharvest.org/csa or click here to find out more information.

Cottage Mama's Note:  When searching for a farm in your area, do no disregard farms that my be an hour or so away - check them out because they may have an additional pick-up spot in your area.  Also, consider going in on a "share" with another family if you aren't sure exactly how the CSA program will fit into your current lifestyle and eating habits.
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Don't forget to vote for the Homies presented by Apartment Therapy.

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The Snowy Cottage Home

We got almost a foot of snow here yesterday at The Cottage Home!  I guess this is what you would call a white Christmas.  I just had to post this picture of our house all snowy and white.  I usually prefer our home in the Summer months with all the greenery growing up the side of the house, but as I was outside taking this picture, I was in awe of what beauty the snow has brought us.

I love old homes - our cottage home was built in 1934.  I cannot foresee my family and I ever living in a newer home, my husband and I feel that the older the better.  There is something so comforting about living in a home that you know has a history, that has been around since before you had even set foot on this earth.  I feel so blessed that we have been given the opportunity to make this house our home.  Here are a few more pictures of our Snowy Cottage Home.

The vineyard my husband planted on our property - we make our own wine.

Well on our property - no longer working, but charming nevertheless.

Side-View of The Cottage Home

Cottage Mama's Note: One of these days I will post some interior photos of what we have done with our home.

Turquoise: 2010 Color of the Year

I was delighted to hear that Pantone announced

Turquoise as the color of the year for 2010.

I absolutely love beautiful damask wallpaper with it's classic design.

Spruce up your interiors with a punch of color!

Choose from a collection of these colorful and fun

dresses here.

You don't need to re-do your whole room.

Add turquoise in the accent pieces.

You know I love the Caribbean beaches and European coastlines with their crystal clear, cool and calming turquoise waters.

See more original artwork here.

Olive Cheese Bread

I feel the need to shout this from the roof-top - I LOVE OLIVE CHEESE BREAD!  This recipe is out of my Pioneer Woman Cooks cookbook that I got about a month or so ago.  I've been dying to try this recipe and I decided Christmas Eve would be the perfect opportunity.  And, oh my gosh, was it good!

Now this is definitely not a figure-friendly recipe, but when you are looking to indulge a little bit (such as around the holidays), you cannot go wrong with this bread.  I served this with our Christmas Eve meal - we had a barbequed turkey, potatoes gratin, cornbread stuffing with bacon, and sauteed garlic spinach.  In retrospect, the bread would probably be better served as an appetizer or a meal by itself as it is so filling, but I am in love and so is everyone else who tried it.

I apologize in advance - I do not have a picture of my completed bread.  I wasn't a hundred percent sure it would be "blog-worthy" (as my husband and I say) so I didn't snap a shot.  And then before I knew it - poof -  the bread was gone.  That's the magic of this recipe - it is so delicious that you will blink and it will disappear!

So here is the Olive Cheese Bread recipe from The Pioneer Woman Cooks :

Olive Cheese Bread

Ingredients:
One 14.5 ounce can black olives, drained
One 6 ounce jar pimento-stuffed green olives, drained
2 green onions
1/4 pound (1 stick) of butter, softened
1/2 cup mayo (real mayo, no substitution)
1 pound Monterey Jack cheese, grated
1 loaf crusty French bread

Directions:
1.  Preheat the oven to 325 degrees.
2.  Roughly chop black olives.
3.  Roughly chop green olives.
4.  Slice green onions, then roughly chop.
5.  In a large bowl, combine the butter, mayo, cheese, olives and green onions.
6.  Stir until thoroughly combined.
7.  Slice French bread in half, lengthwise.
8.  Spread the olive-cheese mixture in an even layer on each half.
9.  Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese mixture is thoroughly melted and beginning to turn light brown and bubbly.  Cut into diagonal slices and serve immediately.

Cottage Mama's Note:  The Pioneer Woman says you can make this bread a head of time and freeze it for up to 6 months.  Also trying substituting other ingredients for the olives and Monterey Jack - for example, chopped sun-dried tomatoes and mozzarella or artichoke hearts and parmesan.

The Pioneer Woman Cooks is an amazing cookbook with beautiful photography and a wonderful story.  If you like good southwestern, southern comfort food, you must check it out.  It is available on Amazon  right now for only $11.50 (regularly $27.50)!

The Homies

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Tutorials Featured - Someday Crafts

My giant stuffed fleece fish and cloth baby doll diaper tutorials are being featured on Someday Crafts.  Head over to Michelle's awesome blog and check it out (www.somedaycrafts.blogspot.com )!!

Hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas!

Christmas Dinner Table Decoration Ideas

When decorating for the holiday season many people remember to decorate the yard, the Christmas tree and the mantle, but what about the dining room table? You want your dinner guests to be transformed into the holiday season mood immediately upon entering the dining room. Decorating the table for the Christmas dinner is a great way to make the day even more memorable. I will admit that red, green, white, gold and silver are still my favorites and probably always will be. The Christmas Day is near and I wanted to share a few Christmas table decoration ideas