mrs. french loves kelly

I have a talented friend, Kelly(in too many ways to mention...painting, printing, yoga, and the list goes on)...She has a lovely blog Kelly Loves Whales.  We met up for coffee awhile back and had such a wonderful time...then a couple weeks later she sent me this!  I am so in love with this painting.  It reminds me of everything I love...it was made just for me.  You can see more of her masterpieces here...xo

I heart monday: TOAST edition

We returned yesterday evening from the beach (more about that later).  Anyway, I was catching up on some of my favorite reads and was happily reminded that the winter TOAST collection was out (thank you Holly). I quickly started perusing the site for my "I heart..." this week and like an addict, I couldn't stop myself.  I quickly realized that TOAST deserves its own "I heart..." post.  I can honestly say that if I could shop in one store for the rest of my life TOAST would be it...ironic, since I do not own anything from there at the time (darn exchange rate).   Until that day, when my closet is full of their magnificent pieces I will anxiously await the arrival of my catalog (oh and Holly, I completely get the smell thing)...I hope my giddiness is contagious...happy Monday! xoxo

 

I heart this coat (it may be my first TOAST wardrobe addition).

I heart these towels.

I heart these wrist warmers.

I heart this quilt.

I heart this romantic coat.

I heart this top.

I heart these jeans.

I heart this "hottie cover."

I heart this nightie.

I heart this cutlery.

I heart this jacket.

I heart this flannel bedlinen.

I heart this scarf.

I heart this rug and these covers.

I heart these shoes and these too.

I heart this tunic.

I heart this cashmere cardigan.

I heart these boots and this throw.

I heart these cozy socks and this bag.

I heart this bedding.

off the grid...

Hello all...I am at my beach (not really mine, but it feels that way).  We have no Internet...so I will not be able to visit all my favorite blog spots...I will catch up when I return on Monday...have the best weekend...see you soon...xxoo

flickr friend: mayalu

I love Thursdays...right now I am loving Thursdays because it is a time for me to share photographers that I admire and that inspire me in everything I do.  This next flickr friend is near and dear to my heart.  She is not only a friend via flickr, but I would consider her a true friend.  One of those magical gals I have met through the beautiful world of blogging.  She makes my day.  I have her to thank for introducing me to Shutter Sisters (I am not quite sure I ever did without it).  She has been such a major source of encouragement and praise regarding my own work...I am not sure I am ready to share...oh she is just to good to keep to myself.  I introduce you to Ms. Mayalu...many of you already know her...

She has an amazing blog maya*made.  She shares with her audience a glimpse into a creative, meaningful life.  A live that doesn't sweat the small things, that appreciates natural surroundings and focuses on the all important family.  Her photos do the same for me.  

mayalu">

1. poppies and parasols!, 2. sweet peas and lemons, 3. sister's bouquet, 4. barn's meadow

In the past I have mentioned my pull toward the country...her photos take me there without leaving my urban home in.  They are simply beautiful and fresh.  Through them I can almost smell the fresh air, hear the birds and wind in the tall grass.  I will not lie, I often spend way too long daydreaming in Maya's photostream.  

mayalu too...">

1. pink cosmos, 2. corn waving good-bye for the year, 3. caterpillar rescue, 4. corn crib

Thank you Maya for doing what comes so naturally to you.  It is such a gift to me and the rest of the lucky bloggers out there who have gotten to know you.  If you haven't already...go do it now...so worth your time....xxoo

come find me...

Remember this from last week?  Well I am at it again...this time a guided tour of the uber talented Stephanie Sheldon's home.  Come on over to sfgirlbybay to see the long, pretty post and if you are visiting from Victoria's blog...welcome!  so nice to see you.

just a sampling: