Quick Update: Camilla Engman at DesignSponge

I just found out Camilla Engman is the guest blogger at Design Sponge, this week . Check it out HERE.

Flikr Find-Camilla E.

Strolling through the blog universe yesterday, I stumbled upon Camilla Engman's blog and Flikr site. Camilla's sites journal her work, home and travels. Above is a picture titled "Chocolate Bar". I don't know anything else about it, except that it looks and sounds like a place I need to be.

In "Corner's of my Home" Camilla shares pics of her stylish and relaxing home. Even the dog is highly fashionable! This home has such a beautiful color palette...very soothing, yet fun.

I also collected pics of Camilla's work on my NEW blog. Its called "Carolina's Random Thoughts." I think the title says it all, basically any crazy thing that pops into my head, I will post there. I'm planning on posting my personal random photos, artists, music, ....etc. Check it out, if you would like.

Emergency Essentials

Warning: This post has no pretty pictures but it could save your life.

This is the new book by Colin Cowie, legendary lifestyle expert. It is an immensely practical handbook and offers step-by-step instructions on everything from how to make a gracious home to fearless entertaining. But the most important thing I gained from Colin's book was his list of Emergency Essentials on Page 66. It is a list of essentials to have on hand in the event of a disaster. If you are like me, who always thinks that it is a good idea to be prepared and then put it on the back burner to do "later".....well there is no time like the present to be prepared. This list is now my top priority, not because I think that we have a disaster looming in the near future, but as a practical and necessary preparatory pre-caution we can take for ourselves, our family and loved ones.

Step 1 - Click on image to enlarge to a readable size.

Step 2 - Print this out and do everything on the list!!!

Jaime Hayon-La Terraza del Casino

Jaime Hayon is a Spanish designer who can really be called a "Renaissance man". His recent redesign of La Terraza del Casino restaurant, in Madrid, embodies his talent for bringing art into interior design. I love the artistic touches, such as the figure sitting on the edge of the small wall cabinet, and the placement of dishes on the ceiling.

Hayon doesn't restrict his creativity to just interiors, he designs everything from furniture, bath fixtures, toys, and artistic installations. Admittedly, his look is probably not for everyone, but I love his exuberance and whimsy. Like his fellow Spaniards, Picasso and Gaudi, Hayon's designs are not hindered by strict functionality.

What is in a Name?- Boho Modern Style

Have you ever read something that felt like someone pulled the thoughts out of your head and wrote them down while you weren't watching. That's how I felt while reading this article from Decor8. It is debating what to title a design style that includes vintage, modern, handmade, flea market finds, art.....etc. Basically, my favorite style. The funny thing is that I have had the same debate in my head for almost a year now. I've been trying to give a nice little title to the look I love to work with. The best I came up with was "Bohemian Minimalism". I'm thinking I like Boho Modern. Anyway, I think the Decor8 article explains this concept much better than I do.

Santa Fe Kitchen

Whenever I travel home I am reminded how much I love the Southwest landscape. I am also reminded of one of my ultimate dreams...to have a home in Santa Fe. Ahhhhh, what a wonderful place. Here is a kitchen in Santa Fe, designed by Houston's Shabby Slips. Photo from Western Interiors magazine (one of my new favorites).

Happy New Year

I'm back! I spent the last week in my hometown of Amarillo, TX. Its interesting to go back to your childhood surroundings, on the eve of a new year. As I was preparing to begin this new year, I was looking back at the person I used to be. I realize how grateful I am for the life I have been blessed with. (I have no idea why I am being so philosophical). Anyway, I am trying to get back into my routine, so thanks to everyone for being patient with me during my absence.