Refurbishing: black/white

I've been working on a personal project today; refurbishing a lovely antique bookshelf with dainty glass doors that belonged to my dear

grandmother.  It will serve as storage space for my massive, ahem, prized handbag collection, in my office.

I'm really excited about it as I was very close to my grandmother. She had always encouraged my to write as a child.  Now I need to decide whether I will paint it a glossy black with a white interior or a glossy white with a black interior. 

Any suggestions would be welcome!! ( I'll be following these helpful tips.)

(images via Cottage and Vine, Sas interiors, The stylish type, Adore Home)

Neon hydrangeas DIY

The Drake is my all-time favorite hotel in Toronto. I stayed there a few times, including the very memorable week I signed my first publishing contract.

I love the retro vibe of the place and they serve the best coffee + breakfast.

They also have a blog and that's where I found this lovely DIY tip!

Isn't it great?

You can find instructions on how to make this here.

 

Stephanie's DIY: a better you!

This week's DIY will be a little different; I'm going to suggest work on the most important thing in your life- YOU!  I will, without regret, be the one to tell you that yes, you have to keep your resolution this year.  There's no better time than now and as the old chinese proverb goes, "A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step." 

Last year I managed to kick the worst habit I've ever had- smoking.  I come to you with the experience of success, the bitterness of wanting one more, and the sweet serenity of being freed of the want to win. 

Whether your goal is to travel more, be a better friend, eat healthier or learn to love yourself and the things you already have, the steps are all the same.  My favorite new habit is to bite off what I can chew by starting small.  It's not easy at first so I know I have to work my way up to a full achievement with every new challenge.  Here's the link to an article in TIME magazine with some real expert advice on how to attain your goals and another one  with some apps to keep you on track.

Remember, you're worth the effort and dedication.  This is one DIY that you shouldn't avoid attempting!
  

Good luck gorgeous readers!

(images Tyra, Doll My Face, Visualize Us, I hurt I am in Fashion)

Stephanie's DIY tip: gingerbread cookies

The holidays are here!  Regardless of what occasion you're celebrating, chances are that you're surrounded by comfort food this week.  I wanted to give you a traditional recipe because in the hustle and bustle of the holidays, we sometimes forget about the things that keep this time of the year simple.  It was hard for me to settle on this one DIY specifically  but then I realized tradition wins over modern any day, for everyone.  Have a great week everyone, enjoy your family and friend time, and most of all BE SAFE! 

Happy Holidays!

A recipe with nothing but great reviews!

(images via Canadian Parents, Tomkat Studios, Susannah's Kitchen)

Stephanie's tip: Holiday Centerpieces

I don't blame you for thinking "summer" at the mention of fresh flowers on your table, but let's remember one thing- just like every perfume has it's occasion, the same goes for floral arrangements.  The holidays are a great time to bring that sweet smell back into your home, especially if you're hosting a get together with loved ones.  When making or buying your holiday floral arrangements, think magical!  Baubles, candy canes, acorns, white and red roses; let yourself be inspired by all the glitter and sparkle of this snowy, warm-your-heart time of the year.  If flowers are too traditional for you and you want something a little edgier, you can always grab a few large vases and fill them up with bare branches, holly and a string of lights to add some ambiance.  Just remember to have fun, this is your creation!  PS:  Speaking of holiday plants... May the mistletoe be very good to you this year!

(All images from here)

Stephanie's tip: Winter Comfort in a Cup

 

 

 

 I'm so thrilled that I get a chance to celebrate December with a warm and delicious DIY!  I was inspired for this post by two things; one being the chilly weather that December brings, and the other being a little spot in my heart that's missing living in Italy.  With that said, nothing beats a warm mug of vanilla hot chocolate to make you feel cozy and happy no matter what the weather, and what better way to garnish it than with a spoon dipped in chocolate?  When I lived in Italy, there was a little café that would serve my hot chocolate with a chocolate spoon and, may I say; it was drool worthy!  Of course you can always buy the spoons but nothing says "amazing and creative host" like this little home-made treat! 

Vanilla Hot Chocolate

Chocolate Dipped Spoons

      P.S.:  The spoons, when wrapped in cellophane with some ribbon make a lovely winter gift as well!

(Images: Taste of Home, Total Life Prosperity,  Eggs on Sunday, French Frosting, Fuel your blogging)

DIY: Infinity Scarf

Wear it long, bunched up, knit or over your head to shield you from this Fall chill!  As cozy as snuggling into a plush blanket, this scarf keeps you warm while keeping you stylish.  These scarves can be quite expensive depending on the pattern or materials you're looking for, but if you have some time to put it together yourself, it's worth it.  I've included a knitting pattern and a sewing d.i.y. so that no matter what your level of expertise you can definitely pull this one off!  A little note that I think is worth mentioning:  make your scarf as long as you like or as short and chunky as you wish because what makes it a one of a kind is your personal touch!

For sewn material ones, there are interesting ones here.


If you don't have time to make your own, here are some original ones 

from Etsy.

(images via Vogue Knitting, http://witchesbrewonline.com/,
http://www.stylehive.com/, Michael Kors)