Worldly Inspiration

Do you love to travel?  I love to travel and two of the most beautiful places I have ever been to are Sydney, Australia and Santorini, Greece (both pictured above).  I think that most of my rooms reflect my passion through travel photos framed on the walls or unique accessories I have picked up from various continents. 

If you could go anywhere in the world right now where would you go?

The great outdoors

With spring time only a few months away I cannot help but dream about the days when I can sit outside after work while it is still light out.  When I think about some of my favorite memories they have certainly been outside in my parents backyard enjoying long dinners or playing with our family dog, Sammy. 

Lately I have been trying to picture what my future home would look like and a great outdoor space is certainly a key component.

See below for some of my newest outdoor inspirations:

 

For more images follow my Pinterest account or click on the images above.

http://pinterest.com/jncaruso/future-home/

Puppy Love

Happy Valentines Day!  In the spirit of love, I want to share my feelings on a special someone in my life - my dog, Peyton.  I adopted this beautiful girl last May and rescuing her has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

While I love Peyton to death, there are definitely some implications to not only my life, but my home.  Based on my experience I have made a list of 5 things I have learned over the last 9 months.

1.  Carry multiple lint rollers
2. Invest in couches, rugs & bedding colors that are similar to your dog's coat in order to hide the hair
3. Never leave food on a low surface unattended
4. Set your alarm 10 minutes earlier to allow for extra snooze time with your pup in the morning
5. Exercise, exercise exercise! A tired dog = a happy owner

 

 I have always been a dog lover, but Peyton has shown me the special bond you can have when a dog is entirely your own.  Knowing that she was abandoned, I have taken extra time to ensure she is comfortable with me and trusts me.  All of the dog hair, shredded toy parts and wet paw prints are worth it when I get to come to home to this face each and every day.

 

"A dog doesn't care if you're rich or poor, big or small, young or old. He doesn't care if you're not smart, not popular, not a good joke-teller, not the best athlete, nor the best-looking person. To your dog, you are the greatest, the smartest, the nicest human being who was ever born. You are his friend and protector."

Nothing like a home cooked meal

Thai Chicken Curry

Something I love about my home, or any home, is the kitchen!  Cooking is a really fun part of my life and I constantly enjoy trying new recipes.  To me, having a warm and inviting home means the smell of delicious food and the promise of a great meal.

Below are a few examples that I have tried over the last several months - with a link to the recipes :)  Follow my PINTEREST account to be inspired yourself! 

 

Santa hat brownie bites

Last but not least champagne...

Champagne

Faux Fur

Being snowed in thanks to winter storm NEMO, I will be making this first post about my favorite cold weather accessory - the faux fur throw! 

Comfy, warm and stylish, faux fur throws are my savior for the long winter months.  My obsession began a few years ago when I was given a blanket for college to keep me warm while away from home.

Since graduating, I have chosen to make a contributions to the Make-a-Wish Foundation and  it just so happens that one of the silent auction items at the "Celebrating Wishes" dinner is always a faux fur throw!  How can I say no?!  This year, my prize was a lovely white throw on one side with a brown giraffe print on the other.  Over the years I have collected enough blankets of varying colors and prints for both the living room and the bedroom!  Although, my boyfriend will tell you that he is plenty warm in my apartment and does not need more blankets on the bed...

After a long day of work coming home to a nicely made bed with a gray throw draped over the bottom is exactly what I need to curl up sip a cup of tea and relax with my pup.