A Closer Look

I love to look at Lonny, but honestly, not many of the homes have much practical inspiration for me. Ashley Putman's Houston home was definitely an exception. It doesn't look overly-designed, but is filled with personal style that's magically kid-friendly -- the perfect stylish family home. Which is why I nearly fell out of my chair when I spotted again on Holly Mathis. It was featured in a Houston holiday home tour last season, and local blogger Lauren offered a closer look. There are some new spaces, like a great hallway gallery wall and an adorable nursery, but it's the kitchen I keep coming back to (no surprise there).

Around Here ...

We have a 2-month-old who has discovered her hands.


My days are filled with morning-naptime coffee-drinking and blog checking ...


... followed closely by frantic naptime house-cleaning.


There is lots of smiley play time.


For me, playtime is late in the day in the kitchen.


Or outside, watching Spring's welcome approach.

Thinking Ahead

I'm still working on a few small projects for Elliot's nursery, but I'm already finding myself thinking ahead to what her room will look like as she grows. I'd like to add some feminine florals and small prints, and - now this is really thinking outside my usual box - piling on colors.


These two rooms, by Christy Ford, featured in the November 2010 issue of Southern Living, are great. Christy owns a fabulous shop, but lets her daughters - aged 4 and 6 - contribute to their rooms. I think they are both precious!

Photos by William Waldron