Tracy Porter Blog... be inspired!

My mama thoughts...

2008-05-09T08:32:00.004-05:00

Happy Mother's Day to all of you! Moms, friends, grandmothers, godmothers, nannies, caregivers... ANY woman who gives of herself to others (as we all do)... should be celebrated!!! These are some of my mama thoughts... observations and joys......

So, you know me... I would love for you to add to this list... I must know what you have learned and love as well!

xoxo, Tracy

* that children bring the greatest perspective one could ask for

* that our SUV has more snacks smashed into the floor than most grocery stores have in their aisles

* that wine was cleverly invented by a mother... and I understand why, and I love her... that brilliant woman

* that being the adult means pig Latin is a good language to learn so you can still communicate incognito with your spouse

* that bouncy balls are evil

* that the word creative must have been invented by a parent

* that I would smell of peanut butter most mornings... and then be scraping the residue off of myself while chatting with someone

* that wet sloppy, drooly kisses right on the lips are most excellent from little children

* that a shaken soda really can hit 4 walls

* that enabling a child does not help them learn

* that I would discover the lioness within... (aka... the I would do anything for them feeling)

* that a full cart of produce tipped over at the grocery store is never a pretty mommy moment

* that questions from a child should often be answered with a question in return

* that family dinners are better than just about anything

* that the day you will never forget is the day they were born

* that projectile is a regular word in a parent's vocabulary

* that private is a non-word for mamas

* that the noise level in our home has nothing to do with what kind of stereo speakers we have

* that not everything in life should get a trophy

* that snuggling heals most

* that being an awesome communicator is more than essential with kids

* that listening is underrated and talking is overrated

* that clean house means it lasts for about 5 minutes

* that kids' art is cooler than any you can buy

* that I really have a loud voice too

* that humble takes on new meaning when you are a parent

* that the dollar store is the kid mecca (and kind of the mama mecca too)

* that socks don't get lost in the dryer, they actually end up scattered all over our house

* that proud has a new meaning when you become a parent

* that guilt is something we do to ourselves (no one is looking that closely)

* that poopie talk would be so commonplace in any home, or with other adults

* that laws should be passed against those little wires that hold new toys in their boxes!

* that playing outside costs no money but is truly invaluable

* that judging someone else's situation is pretty silly stuff in the scheme of life

* that children can still be well-rounded adults even if you never did finish (or start) their journal

* that napping is a fantasy

* that superman really can fly... through chandeliers

* that telling your child you love them and that you are proud of them every day would bring the easiest smile to you both (no matter their or your age!)

* that chicken poop looks a lot like an ice cream swirl to a toddler (yes, really)

* that everything tastes better at grandma's house (I guess I have always known this...)

* that any mama can get ready in about 5 minutes

* that I really am a referee in disguise

* that daddies who change diapers, cook dinner, and pick things up off the stairs on their way up... ROCK!!

* that crying happy tears is just a mama kind of thing

Spectacular vintage doors

2008-05-09T08:31:00.002-05:00

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Several years ago, when John and I moved from our old farmhouse to a brand new home that we had built in the countryside, I was nervous about losing the charm and character of our old home. You know... all the cracks, crevices, and other nuances that I'd fallen in love with over the years. New construction can be intimidating when you're trying to blend old world charm with modern conveniences... John and I knew we wanted to infuse vintage architectural elements into our new space, to make our home feel as thought it had been around for centuries (but still have TiVo and a dishwasher!!!). For me, these rustic old doors and unique hardware are just one way of bringing vintage character to a newer space.

We found a soulful pair of vintage Asian doors that grace our foyer closet; and an antique set of French doors in the grand style (ornate wood & iron) as the entrance into our great room. We absolutely cherish them there... Even our boys seem to love them, and want to know more about them, since they often use our foyer to build forts and other imaginative worlds inside...

Even if creating a stately entrance (or fort) isn't at the top of your list... there are other cool ways to infuse the character of old doors into your space. Try hinging several old doors together as a charming room divider, or a striking backdrop behind a couch or settee. Why not use them to flank a large picture window, or an interior doorway? (Who says the doors need to open and close??) Other possibilities include turning a single vintage door into a table, desk, or headboard... (And yes, I've done all three!)

Check out the following online treasure troves for vintage doors and antique hardware...

Amighini Architectural Inc.

Eron Johnson Antiques

Architectural Accents

Historic Houseparts

Even if you aren't ready to take the plunge... I hope you find a moment to meander... they're definitely a juicy, visual feast!!

Finding the balance...

2008-05-09T08:30:00.005-05:00

I think this is one question I am asked more than any other... The how do you find balance question. I ask my mom about this sometimes... she used to run a company with my father and raised three kids and also was searching for balance. She always seemed so cool and collected to me... made time to get her hair done, was chic and interesting, always put a fabulous meal on the table for a family dinner every night, and still came to all the sporting games, etc! She didn't overthink it... and I am trying to follow in her footsteps!!

I will do my best to demystify what you may think about how I find balance... Perhaps this will stir up even more questions... for all of us. Just know that I, too, am still learning!

Perfection. I ditched the notion of "perfection" long ago. I'm not even sure it was ever a part of me. I knew in life striving for balance was key. I see people that want perfect... and it's a wee bit scary if you ask me. What is perfect anyway?? A lawn with no brown spots? (Who is looking?)... A hair not out of place? (Ewww... a little bed head is far sexier!) No dirt on the floor? (Oh, puleeeazze!!! What is the point of it... too much stress if you ask me.) I'm more of a... this is how I like it, sure it's got its bumps, but at least it is moving forward and in the direction that pleases me... and sister, I am all about "the living"... kind-of-a-girl! Do you read me?? This is my number one rule of finding balance... Perfection is a great ulcer builder.

Date Night. This one is simple... or at least it is to me. I am not saying you need to spend a fortune... but you can certainly benefit from some time with the hubby... or whomever it is you dig! It does take some planning... and possibly some favors. (Grandma... friends...?) I figure in the end it will cost us far less than any marriage counseling would... And really, I love this guy, and being with him (without the kiddies now and again) is something that is a top priority for finding balance. Now if you are a single person, then a date with you and you alone, or whomever, is still a major bonus... good Lord, go see a movie, or get your nails done... but by all means, do something for YOU!!!!

The Clean House. I know... It's my fantasy too. But again, who is looking that closely? I have been known to walk around with a rag and the spray bottle squirting at anything that isn't moving... but, getting all lathered up over the house not being all spiffy is something I did need to learn once our 4 little boys started kicking up the dust. Mind you….I have my "moments"... My are you all kidding me, do I look like I'm your *^%#$@#$&* full-time servant?!?! (moments)... But mostly toys are strewn about... and a row of crumbs seems nearly permanent under the kitchen counter where the boys eat breakfast... and I now have my kids cleaning the toilets (don't worry, non toxic cleaners... yippee!!!) since the stream (the pee-pee stream for those of you with girls) seems to only make it into the bowl partially... the other part flows down the porcelain sides and neatly pools on the ledge and forms a solid layer in a few short hours. (Too much information...?) And the dog is always wet, and then she walks through dirt... Most of the drawers and closets are tidy and organized... but by God I do have junk drawers... and I celebrate them!! Where the hell else do the little things go? Basically, we do our best... and if you came over, you would see a pretty clean house in decent order, with a happy family that is really living there.

Make a Decision. I suppose because time is short I make fairly quick decisions on most everything. I think it helps me move forward on many things without any one thing sitting on my brain and draining the life out of me. Now it's not to say that I don't have major life decisions that need to be pondered... and sometimes a bit of time does help. But generally I don't let the little things... (paint colors, garden this and that, entertaining... blah, blah, blah) sit with me for too long... that just sucks the life out of me.

Don't Get your Undies in a Bundle. We all have things that we get bent out of shape over... and mostly I really try hard be as easy going as I can be. My husband calls me easy going but intense. I am Type A, there is no question, so I have had to learn over the years when and how to push... and when and how to stop... aka, balance!

Be a Planner. This goes hand-in-hand with everything above and allows those things to happen more easily. I am a planner... but I am aware I am NOT an over-planner. This would backfire for me as I need holes in my schedule to feel as human as possible. When too much is in my schedule I start to feel the tilt of balance fall off... and I don't like that feeling. So I try to plan when and where it makes sense for me, for our company, and for our family. I try to see what is directly in front of me, and then down the road and off to the sides. This way I can zig and zag and feel OK with whichever way it all falls.

No Worrying Allowed! Easy to say, I know, but I try very hard to not be a worrier. I find it drains all my energy, and is mostly unnecessary. So I avoid it at all costs. I try to view things in my life as natural progressions, even when they go downhill or become difficult sometimes... and yes, that happens to all of us. I try to see most everything as an opportunity... to learn, to grow, etc. It's easy to assume other people don't have problems that they are dealing with... Believe me, WE ALL DO... It's just a matter of how you choose to view and handle them.

Keep it Simple. Dinner... entertaining... wardrobe... hair... relationships... plans... life! You may not believe this coming from me, the woman who loves layers... layers of life. But in the midst of it all... I am ever striving to keep it simple... an ever-evolving lesson for me. I will always be learning... but I am pretty sure I've got the hang of it... Well, most of the time!!!

Trays galore!

2008-05-09T08:29:00.002-05:00

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I am enamored with eclectic trays... everything from antique silver to woven rattan... hand-painted ceramic to wooden inlay... You name it, I collect them... and I truly use them... everywhere! We put together a video to showcase some of the ways I've put trays to use in my kitchen... but you can certainly find a multitude of other ways to display and use trays throughout your home!

Trays are an obsession of mine, for sure... They just help to anchor little vignettes on my counter top. But they aren't just for decoration - they're actually super functional! Each tray helps to organize a range of goodies, keeping them in sight and at my fingertips. So... I have one for oils and vinegars near our cook top. I have another one for soaps and lotions near our kitchen sink. I have yet another one for all my tea essentials (think sugar cubes, spoons, tea packets, honey, etc). I even have one sitting beneath a fabulous urn which holds all of our larger wooden spoons and other kitchen utensils. Plus, as an added bonus, trays make all the "stuff" so simple to move about when cooking, cleaning, entertaining, etc.!

If you don't have a lot of counter space in your kitchen, no worries! Why not keep a small tray on your bathroom counter to hold all of your lotions and potions? Trays and platters make wonderful accent pieces on a side table...just load them up with a small collection of treasured keepsakes. Oversized trays are a great way to keep stacks of magazines in order on your coffee table. Or consider using a beautiful tray at the base of a gorgeous centerpiece in the middle of your dining room table with votive candles sprinkled here and there. You can even hang most trays on your wall with an inexpensive plate hanger or a length of ribbon. The possibilities are truly limitless... I'd love to hear some of your ideas!

Decadent crab appetizer

2008-05-09T08:28:00.002-05:00

My dear loves. I know you are ever searching for something tasty to make ahead and keep in your freezer for last-minute feeding frenzies. (This falls into my plan ahead and you'll never be overwhelmed by entertaining theory.) Well, I know you will flip over this dandy! A dear friend of my mother's shared it with her years ago, and is allowing us to share it with you! Thank you Marilyn! This is one of our family's all time favorites... Of course it is remarkably simple, intensely decadent (my favorite kind!), and if you don't pop one in your mouth the instant you put them out on a pretty tray, they will be gone!!! Keep a stash of these on hand this summer... this way you can spend more time chatting with your family!

12 english muffins cut in half
4 Tbs. mayonnaise
2 sticks butter softened (I know... but you will love it!)
1 tsp. garlic salt
1 pound imitation crab or lobster
3 five ounce jars Kraft old English sharp cheese

Combine all ingredients (except muffins) and mix thoroughly. Spread the mixture on the English muffin halves. Cut each muffin into quarters and freeze on cookie sheets. When frozen, transfer to ziplock bags. Broil from frozen state until bubbly.

Behind the scenes... our NEW summer catalog video!

2008-04-28T09:50:00.003-05:00

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Our NEW summer catalog will be arriving any day now... can you handle it?? We've got even more amazing FASHION items to share with you… everything from colorful, flirty tunics to smashing necklaces… gorgeous wide belts to sassy, golden earrings. (If you're not on our mailing list... what are you waiting for???)

To tide you over... we've put together some great behind the scenes footage of our photo shoot... check it out! You'll see some of the new catalog pics "in progress..." As many of you know, everything takes place in our own home, so you can just imagine the beautiful chaos of it all... the entire transformation from top to bottom... kids and dogs running through shots... me noshing on (what else) earl grey and donut holes... Quite the lovely, noisy, exhilarating scene!! Enjoy!

xoxo,
Tracy

Our trip to the Orient...

2008-04-24T16:23:00.003-05:00

Ahhh...Travel. Such a wondrous opportunity to experience everything in a new light. We are so insanely inspired by other cultures... we love everything about change... and Hong Kong showed us a most delicious week recently. Thought we'd share a few snippets from our photo album...

John, Sarah and I loved every morsel... from the hot, humid weather... to the exotic food (shark lips - yes, really)... to finding old spectacular treasures in little old city markets. The trip left us breathless! We visited temples, tropical city gardens, and toured Victoria Harbor on a vintage boat that left us smitten. If ever you have the opportunity... you will surely surrender to their rich culture, and your spirit will be better for it!!

A few of our favorites from the trip...

1. Dim Sum for breakfast
2. Snappy little red Euro-Taxis
3. Thick, fragrant, heady air (layered with the sweet notes of incense)
4. Margaritas & lounge singers
5. Hollywood Road's dusty little treasures
6. Emailing our children the day's adventures - from the other side of the world…
7. Warm peanuts served in silvered bowls
8. Flirty green tiled roofs
9. Waking at 3:45am for the day (with a time difference of 13 hours... the body has her own rules... I felt so accomplished by 6am... breakfast, news, emails!!!)
10. Sugar packets in Chinese
11. Vintage harbor junks
12. The pure exoticness of a far away land
13. Evergreens that appeared to be made of rubbery lace
14. Hong Kong Park
15. The Ting Kau Bridge
16. High Tea at the Peninsula... cucumber sandwiches, fruit filled pastries and sweet rose tea... every girl's afternoon fantasy!

xoxo,
Tracy

Sheer bliss... springtime in the country

2008-04-24T16:22:00.002-05:00

Well... I know that many of you have been celebrating spring for weeks... months... (hate to put my mind there...) But WE are just now starting to enjoy mother nature in all her succulent glory! The other night I came home from the studio and the boys and I went for a walk. Max grabbed his camera... and it inspired me to grab mine as well. His thought was to start a photographic nature journal... so I went with that! He was tired of the concept after a handful of cool pics... but I was just getting started. Thought I would share!

We live on 120 acres in the country with woods, prairie, and a fetching 60 acre marsh... Some people don't get the concept of "marsh"... (I think they equate it to "swamp"... (Too much Scooby-Doo watching perhaps?) To us... it is truly remarkable. It is in our case a man-made body of water that is fed by a creek. It is shallow and therefore creates a perfect ground for most any of our Wisconsin fowl. We literally have hundreds of geese, sand hill cranes... an enormous range of ducks and other birds that nest or pass through here every year... Springtime is exceptional as the sky is a feast for the eyes with crossing lines of birds going this way and that... besides the myriad of other creatures that take advantage of the water.

A few years ago we added an acre and a half pond... partly recreational... partly nature inspired. Our four young boys cannot seem to get enough... from catching tiny minnows (and soon larger fish)... to making their own rivers and dams that lead to the pond from our sandy beach. We have cookouts on the beach, we play every day, and truly take advantage of all the amazing things about it.

As we walked around you can see we came across lots of goodies... This to me is the true meaning of luxury... nature and all her splendid chaos!

Gus discovered a duck nest in our front garden... our new puppy Kit discovered it as well... She naturally thinks the eggs make great balls, until of course they break... She quickly laps all that up... I figure good protein and healthy coat!

Max and Fin have emptied all the bluebird houses... We haven't had the bluebirds arrive yet this spring... but the swallows are quickly staking their claim on the houses that surround the pond. I love the way each nest is built of different materials, and the way they are each a true work of art.

Even though the pond water is remarkably chilly it is in every way mesmerizing to sit and just look at... the boys and Kit are in it every day now. The beach provides an endless source of entertainment for all of us!

Chinoiserie powder room

2008-04-24T15:38:00.002-05:00

The tour continues! So, right... several of you have been asking about our master bathroom... The walls before? A pale shade of blue... The walls now? Covered in gorgeous, heady hues of emerald green!!! l am ever telling you that I find paint color inspiration in every nook and cranny... this emerald green is inspired by a shirt I own... I love the intense rich feel of it! With (yes) more black lacquer trim, wainscoting, and doors. Quite the striking contrast... but oh how divine!! It's not an overly large space, but after flooding the walls with this rich, dark color... it oddly feels more spacious AND cozy, all at the same time!

The embossed gold details on the walls are actually piped (yes, out of a pastry bag) with plaster and then, once dry, rubbed with metallic gold and aged with a dry brush in dark brown paint. Don't be intimidated! We did ours free-hand... but you could easily get a similar effect using a stencil. Even the sconce shades got a face-lift with scraps of burlap fabric, some paper cutouts, and headbands painted in high gloss red lacquer for added texture. Just hot glue everything in place, and voila!!

I admit, the pièce de résistance is the mouthwatering tile border... Each tile is over-the-top, luscious goodness... I love staring at them, seeing how the light catches each of the tiles differently... Some are ceramic, others are wood with a mix of found objects (think inexpensive costume jewelry, placemats that were cut apart, etc) glued onto them for texture and interest. (It's amazing what you can re-purpose when you visit the dollar store, craft store, or thrift store... A bit of gold leafing or some high gloss lacquer works wonders!! Are you with me???)

We also used glass tiles with color copies, old postcards, or hand-painted artwork collaged and decoupaged beneath them. The end result is eclectic... and breathtaking! (Hint: Rather than doing individual tile work for the final installation, we decided to mount our tiles on a wood backing first and then put them up in several sections along the top of the wainscoting.)

If you don't have a powder room, foyer, or hallway in need of a major overhaul like this... why not create a beautiful tiled mirror instead? Or cover the top of a small accent table? Or revamp the top of your headboard with a row of unique and interesting tiles?? Even a single hand-made tile (or small grouping of them) would make a lovely addition to a "London Wall" (just display with a piece of ribbon or inexpensive plate hanger). I'd love to hear some of your creative ideas!!!

Majestic wall crown

2008-04-24T15:36:00.002-05:00

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As you know, I love instant gratification when it comes to decorating... Something as simple and inexpensive as a fresh coat of paint can transform your space from the demure to the exotic! Our master bedroom is a great example of this. The walls were a pale celadon green before... Now they're a rich, sumptuous chocolate brown... Warm & inviting! We added the ornate wall crown as a beautiful architectural element above our headboard to create height and old world charm... It blends into the wall color like it's been there for years, but still adds extra sparkle with its touches of metallic gold. Of course, I could not stop there and added layers of vintage pink curtains puddled beneath. (You could do anything here - from textural burlap, to a brightly patterned or striped fabric, to flowing silk, to sheer netting - for a completely different feel.) Nestled underneath the crown we've added an exquisite design in hand-painted gold, directly on the wall. Again, you could achieve the same effect free-handed, stenciled, or stamped. We chose to do ours in metallic gold to mimic the wall crown above, but you could do this in another contrasting color... whatever tickles your fancy!

p.s. I've talked about our headboard in past videos (someday I will be ready for a change!) but the vintage wallpaper is just too good to let go of for now!! BTW, wallpaper is such a great solution for covering just about anything... a tired old vanity, wooden chair seats, drawer fronts, picture frames, keepsake boxes... you name it, I've done it!

A little taste of Shangri-La

2008-04-11T07:52:00.011-05:00

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At last... our Asian-inspired staircase is finally finished, and I could not be more thrilled with the results!! I wanted to share a little taste of it with you here (since many of you have been so kind to ask!). We were recently away on a business trip to Hong Kong (more on that later, I promise). To return home, and be in this space once again... I feel like I am right back in the middle of Shangri-La! I hope many of you can relate to this ongoing process... of traveling and being inspired in some way, then returning home again... exhilarated by the recent adventure, but even more desirous of HOME. After all, our homes truly are extensions of ourselves... a labor of love, ever-evolving...

So, right... the staircase!! The old glossy white woodwork has been transformed by layers of gorgeous, shiny black lacquer... Vintage-inspired ceramic foo dogs are perched atop the banister columns... And of course... THE ORIENTAL RUNNER! Can you handle it??? Totally over-the-top... with rich, Asian-inspired patterns in luscious reds and golds... We even had the brass rods installed on each stair tread for a more authentic, old world feel. Of course, the staircase is adjacent to our little nook with the lipstick red doors, bookshelves, and huntress wall... It truly is one of my favorite places to linger now, which might seem hard to believe... since it was merely a hallway passing through to other rooms in the house before. Now this space has a unique flavor all its own. John and the boys just love it (as I do I... especially since it hides all the delicious messiness of children and puppies scampering about!!).

xoxo,
Tracy

Spring wardrobe fever!

2008-04-11T07:51:00.018-05:00

I don't know about you... but I've been ready to ditch my socks for a long, long time and start pulling out the spring/summer wardrobe!

I must confess, I enjoy stocking up on inexpensive items here and there that I can wear for the season, and not be too worried if I don't pull them out year after year... That said, I also love looking for amazing statement pieces that I'll always feel great in, especially accessories!! Which brings me to these gems... Okay, so I just have to share... we have this GREAT bag coming out in our summer catalog!! This is one of those statement pieces you will turn to again and again (trust me). It is wonderfully oversized and perfect... a fantastic metallic copper that I love, and it fits all the necessities with a little extra room! You take a smashing piece like this, and pair it with a great pair of golden earrings (aren't these spectacular??), your favorite pair of jeans (we'll be debuting some of these in summer as well, so stay tuned!), and a smart little summer jacket, and you're all set!

What I love about this little number is that you can wear it so many different ways! The short sleeves make it perfect for spring & summer... Leave it open over a colorful tank or a contrasting tunic for a fun pop of color... or it's absolutely darling buttoned up for a more tailored look. The paisley embroidery on it is just divine... I'll even throw a wide belt around it on occasion to change it up even more. (Oh, and sorry to tease, but we've got a few gorgeous new belts coming out this summer... so be on the lookout for those as well!) I'd love to know… What are your wardrobe must-haves for the season??

Our London Wall

2008-04-11T07:50:00.006-05:00

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I've blogged a little bit about this space before... but thought a little video might help inspire you even more!! Okay, so I've rambled on and on about how charming London hotels are to me (they are one of my obsessions, after all). They load up their walls with tons of antiques and amazing art... they're simply dripping with lusciousness. I just had to recreate a version of this in our own home! (p.s. Since this is our den, we've even tucked our TV into the mix, along with some of our children's artwork, to make the whole thing feel a little less serious.) As you can see, nothing is overly designed here... I just begin with a handful of cherished objects, and sort of start building out from there! No rules... that's the beauty of it. Nothing is perfectly spaced, or hung absolutely straight. Some of the pieces are framed... some gilded, some carved wood, some resin... Others are simple, hand-painted canvases with their edges fraying a little. I like the sketchbook feeling (do you know what I mean by this?)... the imperfection of it all. I've tucked in a few petite mirrors, ornate candle sconces... and yes, more books (held open with an inexpensive metal plate hanger). If I get tired of something, I can easily move it to another wall and insert another gem... I just keep adding to the collection, constantly refining it and making it my own... Cheerio!!

Top 10 Beauty Must-Haves!

2008-04-11T07:49:00.003-05:00

As requested... Here it is!!!! The list of top 10 beauty products that I could not live without. (Well, granted, I could live without them... but I would go thru a slight withdrawal!) I must admit, I did not think it would be that difficult to pare down the top 10 products that I use... but then I started trying to fit all makeup, skin care, and hair products into one list, and it was a little tricky!! So without further ado… here it is! I hope you enjoy... and of course, I'd love to know YOUR favorite products if you're willing to share!

xoxo,
Katie

(Katie Grasley - Vice President - TRACY PORTER)

1 - SMASHBOX PHOTO FINISH PRIMER
So you already know about this primer, but I still love it and wear it every day! I particularly like the one with the SPF (which is why I don't have an SPF on my list). It smooths the skin's surface and subtly airbrushes the face. (For a completely flawless look, use this before your foundation & concealer... Trust me - you will love the results!)

2 - LAURA MERCIER UNDERCOVER CONCEALER
Confession: I have a slight commitment issue when it comes to concealers... I'm always on the lookout for the next great one to come along. That said, I think I might be ready to settle down with Laura Mercier's Undercover. I like that I get 2 products in 1 compact (1 for the face and 1 for the under eye). This little beauty covers like a dream. (Not that any of us have any imperfections that we would want to cover!!)

3 - TRISH MCEVOY BRONZER
This is the end all and be all of bronzers – bold statement – I know. But truly – I love this product – I use it as both my blush and my eyeshadow as of late. Goes on smoothly and lasts all day. It has 2 different shades for contouring – which is always a spectacular technique to use. Take the darker color and run it just under your cheekbone (where the natural indent is) then take the lighter color and run it on top of the cheekbone – magnifique! To use as an eyeshadow, just take the lighter shade and apply it the eyelid. If you want more of a contrast, take the darker shade and use it in the crease of the eye! The coloring on this product is completely nailed... Looks great on any complexion!

4 - MAYBELLINE GREAT LASH WATERPROOF MASCARA
I have tried several different brands and continually come back to this one. I love the brush which doesn't clump, and love that it stays on all day!

5 - MAC EMBARK EYE SHADOW
I know we have mentioned this color before... but it really is a great shade (deep rich brown with plum undertones). Perfect to use as a liner, in place of the traditional black or brown eye liner... and also great to use as a shadow in the corner of the eye. For a more dramatic look, use it wet!

6 - MAC VIVA GLAM V LIP GLOSS
This is my go-to shade when I want a touch of color that is a step up from the traditional neutral lip gloss. (You know how I like that little extra sparkle!!) Warm pink tones with a glisten of gold... yumm!!

7 - AVEDA PURE ABUNDANCE HAIR POTION
I managed to pick just one hair product... and this was the one I had to go with. Works wonders on my baby fine locks – makes it feel like you have a whole new head of hair. I would highly recommend this product if you need some extra body.

8 - MD FORTE FACIAL CLEANSER
I first started using this cleanser almost a year ago and was able to notice results in a short period of time. I love how soft it makes my skin and how it has improved my overall complexion! I use the level 1 – which is the level I'd recommend starting out with if you are new to products containing glycolic acid.

9 - MD FORTE FACIAL LOTION
This lotion has more of a liquid consistency and helps with the overall complexion of the skin – gets rid of all of the dead skin cells that can accumulate!!

10 - SONIA KASHUK TRAVEL BRUSH SET
I must admit, I never used to be a brush girl... I have changed! Travel brushes are perfect not only because of their size, but also because they help speed up the application time!

Chinoiserie foyer

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By now you've probably noticed a trend... I am hugely inspired by all things Asian right now. (Mind you, this was going on long before our trip to Hong Kong... our travels only reinforced my obsession!). From charming little figurines to colorful prints in rich, dark hues... We recently re-did our foyer... new paint, new wallpaper, the whole nine yards. Before, it held more of a French-country appeal. Now, it's even more bold and dramatic than ever before! The dark taupe woodwork was covered in (you guessed it) high gloss black lacquer (perhaps one day I'll be tired of this? I can't imagine it right now!!!). The ochre & crimson toile wallpaper was replaced by this smashing flocked version in Chinese red, black, and gold. Sumptuous! Check out the website where you can order online... (By the way, don't throw the scraps away when you're done! I save them and use them for wrapping presents, making gift tags, or even covering a simple photo frame.) Since the wallpaper is pretty happening, I haven't really put too much up on the walls just yet. (You know... the whole work-in-progress thing.) Atop the foyer console, I've centered a gorgeous mirror, with a generous basket of found birds' nests below. A smart pair of chinoiserie lamps (that I stumbled upon while antiquing and got them for a STEAL!) completes the whole ensemble... for now!!

Do you ever...

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* Take a big mug of coffee or tea into the bathroom with you in the morning to gingerly sip while you are getting ready?

* Work out in the AM so it is out of the way? (And perhaps watch a little Joe Scarborough... or yesterday's episode of Oprah??)

* Spoil yourself on Sunday by lounging, leisurely cooking with your family, reading a good book, etc?

* Take a bath with a glass of wine, light some candles, and listen to great music during the middle of the week?

* Splurge on a really great pair of jeans that are the perfect fit for you?

* Look forward to a good rainy day and a bottomless cup of tea or coffee?

* Make a summer to do list of all the things you want to do?

Hip & eclectic statement pieces!

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To say we are SQUIRRELLY over the launch of our new furniture collection would be an absolute understatement! Lots of you have been sharing in our excitement, drinking it all in with us... so thank you! Check out our little video clip to see more of the pieces up close and in person - since no amount of words or photography can truly do them justice!! (I admit I'm a bit biased here...) Let us know if there are other tidbits we can share about any of these beauties... Or, if you've already ushered them into your own home... we'd love to hear what you think! You know us, always dreaming with our eyes open... so the feedback (both good and bad) keeps us grounded!

xoxo,
Tracy

A few swell books

2008-03-27T11:54:00.011-05:00

OK, you know I am a crazy person for books... I have been honest about my addiction... I am hopeless. Happily... hopeless!! I have just a few to share today... These are in the casual, fun to read... to give, to get... to be inspired category. Nothing serious... no grand literature. Surely you will enjoy these as much as I do. Consider any of these a truly lovely gift to give as well... Some of them I did receive as gifts.

* Chocolate and Zucchini by Clotilde Dusoulier...... A young and lovely Parisian foodie that will charm your pants off - and make you want to hop the next plane. Great recipes... gorgeous photos... small enough to toss into your bag for a plane ride... Mouthwatering, inspiring, and simply lovely!

* The Goddess Guide by Gisele Scanlon...... My take? A unique & luscious little gem that will make you want to nestle in with a big cup of tea and a notebook... frivolous, profound... stylish... Start dreaming, this one will make you wild!

* Luxe City Guides...... Stylish, brutally frank... and top to bottom fabulous. Even if you don't plan on traveling, these are just too insanely fabulous to miss. Twelve outstanding mini fold out guides that come in a sexy keeper's box will take you from Hong Kong to Dubai, New York to Madrid. You feel like you've joined a secret club that's really in the know! I received this set as a gift... My mission now? Get to every one of these destinations!!

* The Art of Being a Woman by Veronique Vienne...... In her words (and don't you love her for it?!): "It takes a great woman to spot greatness in another woman!" This is a magnificent little jewel to give to a girlfriend or to keep for yourself... Release your insecurities, count your blessings... and get this book!

* Country Houses of England by Barbara Stoeltie...... Warm, inviting homes that feel truly lived-in (my favorite kind). Nothing overly "decorated"... more collected-over-time feeling... imperfection in its finest hour. Be prepared to go antiquing after this read!

Do you ever...

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* Eat donut holes in the afternoon? (I must admit, I have a weakness for them - that, and a great big cup of Earl Grey - right around 3 o'clock!)

* Flit about your house on a Sunday afternoon... in your robe or PJ's... cup of tea in hand... reveling in little nooks you've created... finding inspiration for your next weekend project?

* Sing REALLY LOUD, but only in the car? (BTW, I recently ran across a great CD called Happenstance by Rachel Yamagata... We've got this one on repeat right now!)

* Keep a standing date night with your hubby? John & I do this almost every week... We literally plan it right into our schedules. It brings us calm & balance amidst all the lovely chaos... (Mind you, it's also a great reason to get glammed up during the week!!)

* Tuck a hand-made card into his suitcase for him to find when he's traveling? Or leave love notes strewn about his favorite haunts, before you leave on a long trip??

* Hang a sumptuous mirror in your favorite room... and then stare at its reflection, imagining how grand it would be if the room layout were reversed - or doubled in scale - for a day?? (I've honestly done this... a bit Alice in Wonderland of me, I know......)

* Tell your parents (or children) that you love them? Every day?

* Squish your toes into cool, wet sand? (Pretty much doing anything without socks is fabulous in my book!)

* Eat grocery store birthday cake & ice cream - even when it’s not your birthday?

* Plan a weekend brunch with your grandparents?

* TiVo Oprah so you can watch her early in the morning?

* Send your mom or sister a little goodie "just because"? (It's always nice to be remembered throughout the year... not just holidays & birthdays!)

* Keep framed photos of your loved ones at work? Even unframed will do, to keep them close to your heart! If your desk is rather petite, try a small ribbon memo board instead. These are great so you can add & subtract new photos and other bits of inspiration on a whim... Of course, as you know, we're big on the galvanized steel and magnets gig here at the studio!!

* Encourage your kids to catch fireflies in mason jars? (Ahhh... summer can't get here fast enough!!)

* Get lost in a local bookstore?

* Plan your April Fool's gags weeks in advance? (Maybe it's just us.)

* Have an impromptu picnic lunch for two in the middle of the week?

* Wear cocktail rings to type? You'll often catch me raiding the jewelry bin here at the studio if I forget to wear one to work... No lie!!

Mouthwatering mirrors!

2008-03-27T11:49:00.011-05:00

I LOVE the effect that a beautiful mirror can have on a room... Several years ago for Valentine's Day my husband, John, surprised me with a most exquisite mirror. I absolutely treasure this piece and have cherished moving it from room to room over the years... It continues to surprise me with each new space I put it in! (As a side note, I find myself doing this with other one-of-a-kinds as well... gorgeous lamps, side chairs, unique vessels... Do you do this too??) Of course, I'm always on the hunt for new dazzlers... like our cultured turquoise mirror, or our handsome chinoiserie mirror. I am a big believer in using gems like these in a variety of ways... They add such wonderful depth and personality to most any space. My philosophy is... you cannot have enough mirrors! And don't be afraid to combine an over-the-top piece with something plain and simple... The harmony is sometimes a sweet perfection!

* Find a beautiful frame, old or new, and have a piece of mirror glass dropped in... For a few dollars more, you can have them bevel the edges for a more classic feel!

* Embellish an existing mirror with old costume jewels, millinery flowers, seashells, mosaic tiles, or lengths of ribbon for a more hand-touched look.

* Rather than a grouping of wall art, try a gallery of mirrors in different shapes, sizes, and finishes to create the illusion of a larger space.

* Dress up any mirror with touches of hand-painting (or a beautifully stenciled pattern) on the wall around it... What a wonderfully inexpensive way to add scale and drama!

* Line the back of a hutch or bookshelf with mirrored glass... Or lean several smaller mirrors behind a stack of books for more casual, unexpected sparkle.

* Consider putting a mirror where you normally wouldn't... in a kitchen, on a door... even on your table! Sprinkle with tea light votives, and voila... Instant centerpiece!

Small indulgences...

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Sun drenched colors and spritely patterns... adorable little shapes... kissed with metallic silver and gold.... What's not to love?? I have always been enamored with bud vases! I think they are so charming, with a single stem, or a grouping of posies... You will find a myriad of uses of them, I am sure... Great to give as gifts (but don't forget to keep one or more for yourself!) I always keep a stash of "littles" like this to bring along to impromptu gatherings, or send to favorite aunties... You know, all those events we try so hard to plan ahead for... but sometimes life just happens along the way!! Bonjour, spring!

Tracy Porter Blog... be inspired!

My mama thoughts...

Spectacular vintage doors

Finding the balance...

Trays galore!

Decadent crab appetizer

Behind the scenes... our NEW summer catalog video!

Our trip to the Orient...

Sheer bliss... springtime in the country

Chinoiserie powder room

More great reads

Majestic wall crown

A little taste of Shangri-La

Spring wardrobe fever!

Our London Wall

Top 10 Beauty Must-Haves!

Chinoiserie foyer

Do you ever...

Hip & eclectic statement pieces!

A few swell books

Do you ever...

Mouthwatering mirrors!

Small indulgences...