More Boo

This year was the very first year I've welcomed trick-or-treaters to my home.  I moved out of a neighborhood to the country when I was five and grew up with only one neighbor.  Even though we've been in our house two years now, we have somehow missed both Halloweens!

I shot a few scenes of our home (check out the new paint job while you're at it) in all it's Halloween glory.  What is it about this holiday that makes me so giddy?

By the way - disregard the dying grass and bare flower beds in our front yard.  That is our next project.  I could probably start an entire blog on the front yard!

Let's Go To... San Juan

Puerto Rico!  I never expected to find myself in Old San Juan but two years ago James and I began our Caribbean adventure in this fantastic city!  I fell in love quickly because this historic city has everything that I find attractive:  narrow, cobblestone streets, winding roads and a city on the hills, colorful buildings and lush vegetation, tropical weather, delicious food, views to die for, and a lot of charm! 

I'd love to return and explore the rest of Puerto Rico but today let's daydream.....

The hotel we stayed at was amazing.  I had searched and searched and finally found the perfect match:  Hotel El Convento.  It is a newly renovated hotel in Old San Juan (perfect location) that used to be a convent in the 1600's.  The gorgeous lobby opens up into a fantastic courtyard that houses a 300 year old tree!  There were archways galore (my weakness), bougainvillea, tile floors, and coloful walls.  Perfect.

 I would most definitely be strolling through the breezy outdoor hallways, finding my way to the rooftop pool to enjoy the sun and some cocktails!

Hotel El Convento was hands-down one of the most charming, atmospheric, beautiful hotels we've ever stayed at.  It is on my list of favorites! 

What is the best hotel you've ever visited?

[Photos courtesy of Hotel El Convento.  Someday I will post my own shots!]

Joie de Vivre

Ah, the ever-fabulous weekend getaway.  No, I won't be off on an adventure this weekend but a girl can daydream, right?  I love the Joie de Vivre hotels and I've stayed at a handful now ever since I discovered them a few years ago.  They are a group of boutique hotels throughout California and the newest location (among others) on my MUST-STAY list is the Waters Edge property in Tiburon.  Simply gorgeous!

I'm thinking this will be the PERFECT escape for an after tax season breather.  I mean, look at the picture below - could it be more my style?  I can't wait!!! 

Joie de Vivre also has a blog I like to puruse - joie of life.  I will admit I'm a hotel snob.  The hunt for the most unique hotel is thrilling and I totally appreciate fun, non-corporate, details.  Afterall, staying in a hotel should be an escape in itself - make it somewhere fun!

Happy Friday!

Happy Friday

I saw these Moroccan rugs on the Anthropologie website and fell in love!!  One can only dream...


Have a wonderful weekend!

Succulent Succulents

I'm a sucker for succulents!  So easy to grow and maintain, how could anyone not love them?  They also look great in almost any container (I especially love the mini gold goblets - see above). 

These photos of adorable pots makes me want to grab my car keys and go on a shopping spree!  I recently transplanted my succulents to outdoor containers and I would love to get more for my kitchen window.

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

Cinco de Mayo and my recent jaunt to Mexico have me thinking of my favorite party decoration:  paper flags!  My sister and I made some for my college graduation party - not quite as beautiful as the professionally made flags but festive nonetheless!

Who could not love the vivid COLORS, and intricate cutout designs?  I am so in love!



[Photos courtesy of Casa Bonampak]