grits&lime

Update: Nicole's 30 before 30

2011-12-28T18:09:00.001-05:00

It's a belated Christmas miracle, I'm updating the grits&lime blog! Let's see how my 30 before 30 list is doing since there is uh, 138 days until I turn 30!

I have found myself modifying my list here and there to make the list more realistic. When I originally compiled the list I was in a completely stage in my life - single and in transition. Now, I've gotten married, moved back to Atlanta, and started a new job!

1) Compile 30 things to do before I turn 30
2) 365 Photo project - to start in 2012
3) Take steps into getting Hudson to be a therapy dog
4) Streamline life - unsubscribe from unnecessary emails, eliminate time wasters
5) Get makeup professionally done
6) Meet a Twitter friend in person
7) Put grits&lime on Etsy
8) Learn to cook new dishes
9) Join professional organizations
10) Become more green
11) Experience a new culture
12) Get a new camera
13) Live a healthier lifestyle and establish an exercise routine
14) Establish a snowball debt plan and execute
15) Find and put grandma and grandpa's video on DVD
16) Take a dance class
17) Improve posture
18) Stop biting nails (again)
19) Get a tattoo
20) Take more risks in home design
21) Learn how to knit
22) Start a milk glass collection
23) Repurpose or refinish grandpa's table
24) See prayer flags at dairy farms and rails to trails
25) Visit a new country
26) Let it be.
27) Upcycle bedroom furniture
28) Ride on motorcycle with dad
29) Get a full body massage
30) Dance with my dad

There are a few items on here that are not a one-time task - they are ongoing. One of the things I really hope to accomplish in 2012 is to streamline my life more - between dividing my time with my husband, working a full time job, and maintaining a house - my time is more valuable than ever. I've already begun the streamline process.

Here are some of the things I have done:

Purchased a laptop. Getting rid of the bulky PC. Time to be more portable and be able to work from anywhere. Plus, saves room.
Organized the linen closet and cabinets under the sink. Organization takes time but saves time in the long run.
Delete any emails I've already read. Part of the purging and decluttering plan. And organizing in both folders/labels for both work and personal email.
Unsubscribe to blogs. My time is valuable. I am only subscribed to blogs I read on a regular basis now. If I haven't had an interest in any of the posts in a fews weeks, it's time to unsubscribe. The first thing I did when I got back from my honeymoon was unsubscribe to ALL wedding blogs.
Sync my work (Outlook) calendar with my Google calendar on my iPhone and Mac.
Started using Wunderlist - it's the best task management tool I have found to date. It has really been helpful in my job!

Another thing I hope to do in 2012 is to "let it be." Things I cannot change - let it be. Family dynamics change. Friends comes and go. Life just happens and I need to let it be. I am also trying to remind myself that I do not have to have everything in life figured out. And it's okay if I don't get everything done - sometimes my to-do lists are way too ambitious. It's all about finding a balance and just not stressing over things that are out of my control. So, if this blog doesn't get updated as often as it should, I'm not going to stress. ;)

List of antique stores in St. Augustine, Florida

2011-06-01T01:37:00.004-04:00

Holy cow, we haven't updated since March. I promise we have good excuses. Here is one: www.projectmattandnicole.com. And yes, I crossed blogged.

A while ago, a couple of people requested that I write down the places I go to for antiques when I go to St. Augustine. This past week, my fiance and I vacationed in St. Augustine and had the opportunity to stop in at my usual places. I was sure to foursquare them so I could know where they all were. It was also Matt's first real time exploring St. Augustine. I think he really enjoyed his time there!

So, here is my list. There are a few places that I omitted. I only recommended the places that I personally go to often and actually buy from. If you know of a place in the area that I should check out, be sure to write it in the comment section. I'd love to check it out!

Out There Antiques
Just as the name states, it is a bit out there. The drive isn't so bad though. It's near the airport. When we were there this last time jets were flying over to practice for the upcoming air show so that was pretty cool. There are over 40 dealers in the 6,000 square foot space. We've bought quite a few pieces of milk glass there, as well as the cameras shown in the picture. The prices are very reasonable and the owner is great!

Address:
6410 US One North

Hours:
Tuesday - Saturday | 10 am - 5 pm
Sunday | 1 pm - 5 pm

Designer's Etc
Bought a couple of awesome purses here for $1. Seriously. It's touch and go though, sometimes they have great stuff, sometimes they don't.

Address:

413 Anastasia Boulevard

Hours:
Monday - Friday | 10 am - 5: 30 pm
Saturday | 10 am - 4 pm

Anastasia Antiques
I don't think I have actually bought anything here yet, but it's definitely always one of my stops when I am junkin' (coined by Aaron Draplin). They have a lot of glassware, and it's it color coded which is a feast for my eyes. Soooo prettyyyyy. If you hear what sounds like a hostess announcing over the intercom that so and so's table is ready, don't worry, you're not going crazy. O'Steen's Seafood restaurant is next door. This is apparently a pretty popular restaurant and there is usually a long line to get a table so the antique store and restaurant apparently partnered up. Thus, you can shop while you wait for your table. I've eaten there before, it's great but I am not sure why the hype is about. Oh, and the restaurant is cash only.

Address:
201 Anastasia Boulevard

Hours:
Sunday and Monday | 12 pm - 5 pm; Tuesday and Wednesday | 12 pm - 6 pm; Thursday - Saturday | 11 am - 6 pm

St. Vincent DePaul Society Thrift Shop
Two words: orange couch. This place isn't exclusive to St. Augustine. There are St. Vincent DePaul thrift stores throughout the county. I always find milk glass here at great prices. And yes, there is where I got the orange couch. They have a warehouse in the back of even more stuff that hasn't been placed out yet. If you ask, they will sometimes let you stroll through there. Cash only here.

Address:
19 Mc Millan Street

Hours:
Monday - Saturday | 10 am - 5 pm

St Augustine Antique Emporium
This is a new place a I recently came across so I've only been there once. They have over 33 dealers under one roof. I remember they had a lot of cool stain glass pieces. They also had some cool, old cameras. The prices were decent as well.

Address:
62 San Marco Avenue

Hours:
Monday - Saturday | 10:30 am - 5:30 pm; Sunday | 11:30 am - 5:30 pm

Goodwill
Let's face it. There are a lot of elderly people in Florida. Their stuff usually ends up at Goodwill.

Address: 2005 US 1 South

Hours:
Monday - Saturday | 10am - 7 pm; Sunday | 12 pm - 5 pm

Tiffany is a Sewing Goddess

2011-03-15T17:29:00.004-04:00

Can I just say how proud I am of Tiffany? She recently sewed a custom set of crib bedding for our friend, Stacy. Psst...a little secret...this was her first time sewing something for a crib. She has a natural talent for visioning something in her head and making it come to life with her sewing machine.

I really loved the theme that Stacy picked for little Audrey's room - vintage, girly, yet classic. It's a beautiful room that Audrey can surely grow into. I adore the birds and birdcages!

I couldn't post the photos of the sweet linens without showing how perfectly they tied into the room's theme.

What's amazing is that until this past November I had never met Stacy! And Stacy and Tiffany only recently met in person. The power of Twitter. Although I did meet Stacy at the Geekend conference in Savannah.

Congrats, Stacy! We're so excited for little Audrey! And how cool is it that she is due on Tiff's birthday!?

Photos were taken by Teresa Little Earnest of memories n more photography :)

30 before 30

2011-01-20T17:50:00.002-05:00

I've had my 30 before 30 list compiled for a while. For some reason, this list was really hard for me. I wanted the items to be realistic because let's face it, I will be thirty in just 480 days. What's funny is that I am just now seeing Tiffany's list and I hadn't discussed the items on my list yet we have at five of the same items on our lists! We must be destined to be best friends. Our birthdays are close to (April and May) so we have about the same length of time to fulfill everyone on our lists.

1) ~~Compile 30 things to do before I turn 30~~
2) Get a tattoo
3) Take steps into getting Hudson to be a therapy dog
4) Take graphic design classes
5) Become a mentor
6) ~~Meet a Twitter friend in person~~
7) Put grits&lime on Etsy
8) Learn to cook new dishes
9) Learn how to do a fish tail braid
10) Skydive
11) Visit a new state
12) Refinish grandpa's table
13) Get in greatest shape of my life
14) Pay off majority of loans and all credit card
15) Find and put grandma and grandpa's video on DVD
16) Take dance lessons with Matt
17) Improve posture
18) Stop biting nails once and for all
19) Visit another country
20) Take more risks in home design
21) Learn how to knit
22) ~~Start a milk glass collection~~
22) Create a water barrel
23) Start an ongoing community or social event
24) See prayer flags at dairy farms and rails to trails
25) Go on an epic road trip
26) Let it go.
27) Take a ballet class
28) Ride on motorcycle with dad
29) Pay it forward
30) Continue working on green initiative

30 before 30

2011-01-20T16:56:00.006-05:00

well, nicole was right. 2010 definitely brought about a lot of change. i got a promotion at "my day job" which is very exciting and i was also accepted to grad school!

i know that 2011 and 2012 will be equally exciting and there's no telling what will be around the next corner. one thing is for sure though... my 30th birthday will be making it's presence known in 2012. it appears that there are 442 days remaining until said birthday and since my life tends to revolve around to-do lists... why not have a 30 before 30 to-do list! so, here we go!

1. ~~buy new towels for the bathroom & throw out the old ones~~
2. go to a nice restaurant downtown wearing a cocktail dress
3. run a 5K straight without walking
4. ~~visit 1 (maybe 2) new states~~
5. ~~go to see a play/musical/ballet/opera~~
6. ~~treat myself to a massage~~
7. read 10 new books
8. get my next tattoo to celebrate the 10yr anniversary of my surgery
9. go on a trip with my sister (without the nieces)
10. take a dance class – something new
11. ~~complete a bike/run race (muddy buddy will suffice)~~
12. ~~cook thai food at home by my self~~
13. lose 10 pounds
14. create a morning schedule and stick to it
15. sew a pair of pants that fit correctly
16. go out of the country (preferably someplace new)
17. ~~go skiing~~
18. do a 50s pinup photo shoot (the classy kind though)
19. start writing the book i’ve been talking about for years
20. spontaneously take a weekend road trip (no planning whatsoever)
21. take an art class – the real kind
22. ~~make fresh homemade bread~~
23. find a good dermatologist
24. start an etsy shop for grits&lime
25. ~~mail my postsecret~~
26. make a meal for my family – holiday style
27. ~~host a party~~
28. complete a sprint triathlon
29. create a real savings account and leave it alone
30. buy something nice for myself from tiffany’s (it is my namesake after all)

feel free to give suggestions to any of these!

updated 10/4/2011

Who says filing cabinets have to be ugly?

2011-01-17T18:43:00.000-05:00

I don't know about you but I have always wondered, why are filing cabinets so expensive, yet so ugly? I was recently inspired by this Apartment Therapy post of transforming old, ugly filing cabinets into beautiful, functional ones.

Here is one that has been covered in decorative paper.

And look at this before and after. You know I can't resist that mint color. I want!

Check out the rest of the post at Apartment Therapy. They have the rest of the before and after photos there.

Oh yes, BIG NEWS. I am officially moving back to Atlanta in February so look for an explosion of grits&lime awesomeness in March. Also, I have a blog in the works chronicling mine and my fiance's adventures in home design and DIY projects so you might be seeing some posts here from that blog every now and then. I am also going to be getting into the thick of the DIY projects for my wedding too so look for those posts as well.

Tiffany is working on a crib bedding project for a baby girl and it is going to be so adorable! She will have to post it when that is completed. Oh yes, I just put her on the spot.

Here's to 2011!

2011-01-03T14:14:00.001-05:00

Lots of changes happened between Tiffany and I towards the tail end of 2010, changes that will carry over into 2011 in big ways! Between the two of us we had some GIANT changes - a job promotion, acceptance into grad school, and a wedding proposal. Not to mention the little changes.

I cannot speak for Tiff, but I know 2010 taught me that we should celebrate even the smallest moments of celebration and accomplishments because they can equal into HUGE things when you look at the big picture. Happiness is a snowball effect and it all has to start with the individual snowflakes. So, here's to 2011 and all its tiny snowflakes!

I guess this also explains the absence of posts, we've been busy!

*image by Flights of Fancy

Chamblee Antique Row finds

2010-11-28T14:55:00.004-05:00

As many of you already know, going thrifting is hobby of mine. Recently, we went to Antique Row in Chamblee, Georgia - a suburb outside of Atlanta. If you enjoy going to antique and thrift stores, then I highly recommend you hit up Chamblee's Antique Row!

I now have five more pieces of milk glass to add to my collection, a couch - yes, I said a couch, and Matt got a cool, working 16 mm camera. He already has a 16 mm projector so now all he needs is some film.

Here is the aforementioned couch. No, it's not a great photo. I am going to pick up the couch this weekend so I promise a better photo. This photo was taken with my iPhone at the store. I got it at a cool store called the The Ice House. This store is awesome. Not only do they make kitchen cabinets, but they go to estate sales, find deals, and resale their finds at the store. I picked up this couch for just $165 to compliment my $80 orange sleeper find.

At this same store, I spotted this amazing fridge. Actually, it was the first thing I saw when you walked in the store. I pretty much fell in love with this store from the moment I walked in.

It's actually not a new fridge, it's brand new. It's a KitchenAid fridge on the inside. They do find old, retro fridges and refurbish them to sell though.

We didn't even get to all the stores that day - this is definitely an all day thing if you are the type that likes to go through the stores a few times like I do. I always spot things later that I didn't see the first go around. We will definitely be planning another visit - actually several more.

Oh, and don't forget to stop at the Frosty Caboose. It's an actual caboose of a train and it's right in the middle of Antique Row, you can't miss it. Be sure to get a nice, tasty snack like ice cream, hot chocolate or cider, in the midst of your antiquing adventures.

Create a quick, cheap rug

2010-11-17T13:29:00.000-05:00

Here's another DIY rug project!

Three inexpensive rugs playfully sewed together with contrasting thread. This is one DIY project I am going to definitely attempt. Check out the project on Apartment Therapy.

$1.99 glasses as candle holders

2010-11-14T22:12:00.000-05:00

Remember my post on the inexpensive look-a-like Anthropologie glasses? And how I use my glasses to store jewelry?

I found the same glasses being used on Style Me Pretty as candle holders. Aren't they beautiful?

DIY headboard

2010-11-14T22:04:00.001-05:00

Absolutely loving this DIY headboard for this bed. And loving the turquoise and olive green together.

Check out the rest of this South African home on Apartment Therapy.

Cool before and after rug

2010-11-11T13:39:00.001-05:00

Loving this before & after on Design*Sponge today! Way to repurpose a rug!

The rug has been painted. Be sure and check it out on Design*Sponge.

Weddings with DIY touches: shoe clips

2010-11-11T13:09:00.000-05:00

A second in this series. One thing I am passionate about is repurposing items you already have so I thought a post I recently wrote for Swankey Events would be ideal for grits&lime too.

Who says you have to wear new shoes on your wedding day? I don't know about you but I want to be comfortable on my day, thus the thought of wearing new shoes really doesn't appeal to me. I mean, unless I bought them in advance (way in advance) and broke them in.

But why not take a pair of shoes you already own and jazz them up? Clips like these:

See more and where to buy them at Swankey Blog.

Adorable save the dates

2010-11-03T22:52:00.001-04:00

Just had to post these adorable Save the Dates I came across on none other than Apartment Therapy. Not really sure why they were on there but they are cute nonetheless!

This one tells a little story.

These look like letterpress so I am sure they cost a pretty penny. Be sure to check out all the ones listed. Apartment Therapy.

happy camper

2010-11-02T12:58:00.000-04:00

I am not sure when it happened but I am obsessed with vintage campers. I WILL own one some day.

It was probably fueled by this little guy: a birdhouse inspired by a 1950's Shasta camper. Oh. so. precious.

What's awesome is when I showed my dad the camper birdhouse, he randomly pulled this gem of his own from his shop. He has no idea where it came from. I see it being painted turquoise and on my fireplace mantle in the future.

Here is another thing that could have fueled it. You know, because they combined some of my favorite things: the camper, the cupcakes, and the color turquoise.

Yes, they sell cupcakes out of that! You can even have them cater your event (adorable camper and all)! Check out their website: enjoy cupcakes

Then, I went to Jekyll Island to visit a friend and missed my turn. I had to go a round-about way to reach my destination. Had I not though, I would have never seen this beauty.

Granted it's not very old, it's still inspired from the retro teardrop trailers from back in the day. Sorry, for the poor image quality. It's iPhone and raining.

Here are some of my favorites:

snail trail

mirthfully

Wanderful

See Jane Fly

Here's a gem for sale. ONLY $350. Check out that turquoise sink and stove!

Repurposing hangers

2010-10-26T19:59:00.000-04:00

Using hangers and hooks to display artwork. Good for the budget.

Via apartment therapy.

Paper goods extraordinaire on Swankey Blog

2010-10-25T23:20:00.000-04:00

I know I have posted a couple of posts on paper lanterns and garlands here and here but I couldn't get enough! I did a monster post for a client in the wedding industry.

Check out the post on the Swankey Blog.

The perfect canvas tote

2010-10-20T18:49:00.000-04:00

Love love love this DIY canvas bag that was featured on Design*Sponge today. If only I could sew...Tiff? :) I might have to attempt to make this despite my inability to sew. Here are the step by step instructions.

Eye catching couches

2010-10-15T21:23:00.000-04:00

Couches that have caught my eye recently.

1) apartment therapy 2) apartment therapy 3) decor8 & House of Turquoise 4) apartment therapy 5) apartment therapy 6) House of Turquoise 7) apartment therapy

I especially love number three! Part of what catches my eye when it comes to couches is how comfortable it appears. All of these couches seem comfy enough for a nap to me!

Weddings with DIY touches: lanterns

2010-10-15T15:07:00.002-04:00

I think I am going to start a new series here on grits&lime to highlight weddings with do it yourself touches. The first one up features colorful LANTERNS!

I absolutely love lanterns, whether they light up or not. I think they are fabulous. And I love this couple for taking it one step further...making it the theme of their wedding. I am in love. They even designed their invitations and programs around them.

I love how they incorporated family portraits and their parents' wedding day into their wedding! And more paper goodness. Check out Style Me Pretty for the rest of their photos. You have to see them all. Photography for this wedding is by Jeffrey and Julia Woods. Give them some love as well. [Love their website by the way!]

Jordan and Landon's house on Young House Love

2010-10-09T13:08:00.000-04:00

Speaking of a glimpse into someone's home...Young House Love recently crashed the home a husband and wife photographer team. I LOVE their house. I loved every single room.

I loved all their DIY projects around the house. For example, look at this amazing wine bottle light fixture (another awesome DIY light project) they made from leftover wine bottles. The big mirror is a DIY project as well. They were closet doors (they have another mirror just like it in another room). I love this idea and plan to do something similar in my den to capture more light since there is only one window in the room.

In the master bedroom they had bead board and took some inexpensive frames and painted them white.

This is their hallway, the mirror is just like the one in their living room. The light fixture is from IKEA. And the chairs are a thrift store find that were recovered. I love this space!

To see the rest of Jordan and Landon's home, go to the post on Young House Love.

Covet Garden: A new approach to the online design magazine

2010-10-08T19:11:00.002-04:00

I am still mourning the loss of my favorite print magazines, BluePrint and Domino. I just haven't been able to get into online magazines such as Lonny...until now.

Covet Garden is a new Canadian-based online magazine that I think I will actually enjoy and look forward to. Why? Because they take a different approach. Each issue of their publication is focused on one individual space that has not been styled by designers, but everyday people.

This whole issue of Covet Garden is dedicated to the home of Shelley and Brandon, and their baby girl, Clover.

I love the bundle of pom poms in Clover's nursery! The nursery is modern, sophisticated, but still child appropriate. It's a room the little girl can grown into for years.

I love this approach! Sure, I love seeing designer spaces but there is just something about getting a glimpse into someone's home and seeing their individual style. Can't wait to see more of Covet Garden! Check out the issue of Shelley and Brandon's house. Fabulous.

Currency as tile

2010-10-08T17:17:00.003-04:00

Last year I came across these images via notcot.com of the most gorgeous flooring...made from PENNIES. I absolutely fell in love with it. I love the copper color, the richness, and the shine of it.

Recently, I have seen a few other examples in which currency was used as tile. It definitely has a green aspect as you are repurposing something that already exists. And it's a unique way to add individuality or modern touch to your home. Question is, will we see this become a new trend?

Here is a table with an overlay of pennies via apartment therapy and EPBOT. Check out EPBOT.com for all the before and after photos and step-by-step instructions.

Here's another example using nickels mixed in with concrete for the floors. This homeowner chose to use the element in a bathroom. I think it works great with the stone of the counter tops and shower. If you want to try this in your home, the owner was gracious to share the project details on apartment therapy.

What do you think? Do coins works as tile? Which one is your favorite?

Inspired by nature

2010-10-08T16:38:00.000-04:00

Lately, I have been seeing peacock inspired design EVERYWHERE. From home decor, weddings, accessories and clothing, even into the holidays! It's okay by me because I am drawn to the colors like a fly to the light.

flights of fancy

*see photo credits here

apartment therapy

Claire's

Even in several Christmas trees feature on House of Turquoise!

Do It Yourself projects that involve light

2010-10-07T16:41:00.003-04:00

I have a thing for glass bottles. In fact, in my house I put up glass selves above my bar to house random glass bottles I have found over the years.

Well, head over to Design*Sponge for a DIY on how to make your very own wine bottle torch. Isn't that awesome?

Wine Bottle Torch

{ Design*Sponge}

Here are two other DIYs that involve light.

Homemade Glass Bottle Lamps

Here's a helpful link to aid in this project. Instructions via Instructables.

Homemade Chandelier

It's a funky chandelier made out of Dixie cups!

Instructions via Instructables

United Plates

2010-10-05T20:20:00.000-04:00

Digging these state and food prints by John Holcomb. Georgia is clearly the best. :)

I was curious as which food he would use for New York. I found two different version on two different sites.

On Holcomb's site, it's hamburger, french fries, and soft drink.

On another site, it's the vegetarian version.

North Carolina is cute too!

Here's Florida!

To see all the states, go to Shorthand Studio.

We're still here...

2010-09-20T00:33:00.000-04:00

Wow, have the grits&lime duo been busy! Tiff has been in Chicago having breakdowns over balloons. I kid! And I have been immersed in several big freelance projects. I have been compiling some great posts to come on the blog though!

Even better news (for whom ever reading), is that I recently "retired" my personal blog to focus on other things...such as the grits&lime blog!

Until then, here are some beautimus posters to hold you over. I found these gems on Etsy and they are so adorable and focused on positive and inspirational thoughts!

I had seen the bird with a french fry one before and have been a long time fan! I may actually have to get that print. It comes a various colors. I think it is so adorable and for some reason reminds me of New York City. I guess because on a visit there, I witness a bird take a hot dog out of a guy's hand while waiting on the ferry. The last print, with the flowers, is one I am thinking of getting as well. I think it would go splendid with my orange and turquoise colors. Yeah?

Be sure and visit Studio Mela to see all the fabulous prints!

Anthropologie glassware and its cheaper twin

2010-09-09T15:54:00.001-04:00

I'm admitting it. I love glassware. I can't have enough of it.

Anthropologie has this glass:

They have it in pink, green, yellow, and clear. They sell for $6 per glass. They call these juice glasses. They also have tumblr glasses in the same design but they do not come in yellow. The juice glasses are 3.5" in height and 2.5" in diameter while the tumblers are 4.5" in height and 3" in diameter. You can get a set of the tumblers for $32.

I recently went into World Market for the first time. I know, I don't know how I have never been in there before either. Look what I found. They are not the same glasses but they look pretty similar, huh? And they are half the price! Here they are.

They come in plum, pink, green, clear, and turquoise. You can get a set of four in this size (not sure of the exact dimensions) for $11.96. You can also get them in a larger size for the same price as the smaller set! I got a turquoise one in the larger size on clearance for $1.98. I plan to use it a vase. I bought one small glass in plum, turquoise, and green to use to sort and hang my earrings. I think I will break down and buy a set for the kitchen. They are just too pretty!

Beautiful glassware

2010-09-01T16:06:00.000-04:00

A feast for the eyes! I love colorful glassware, especially in greens, teal, and turquoise. I am drawn to it like a fly to the light. An arrangement like this would be simple to do. All is takes is a little patience (and some cash).

Hit up antique stores, flea markets, and garage sales for some inexpensive finds. Keep to one chosen color scheme or go for the whole rainbow. I find all the different textures together in the photo above delightful.

Also posted on {nicole galletta}.

Whimsical wedding decorations

2010-08-19T12:18:00.002-04:00

Loving this post on flights of fancy! I, too, have started noticing this same trend of incorporating elaborate paper design and craft decorations into weddings. I kind of love it. Whimsical and quirky. Check out the rest of the images here.

These decorations could even be applied to your home or office. Yes, I said office!

I'm lovin'...

2010-08-18T23:15:00.000-04:00

Loving the color of this wall. Wondering how it would look with an orange couch. The print on the curtain is awesome as well! young house love

Blue ceilings. See more blue ceilings at House of Turquoise.

Not really sure what it is about this room that I love so much. The peaceful walls? The layout? The painted brick fireplace? It just all works. apartment therapy

Love, love, love the vibrant green and turquoise in this room! Adore those lamps. House of Turquoise

Another vibrant turquoise lamp, this time paired up with red! See other red and turquoise combos at, you guessed it, House of Turquoise.

I spy a teal/turquoisish lamp. Paired with orange, nonetheless. Check out this House of Turquoise post for other images of this room. The interior designer is clearly having a love affair with the pattern of that rug as she used it in numerous rooms/colors.

Also posted on {nicole galletta}.

Perfect wedding palette

2010-08-18T16:07:00.001-04:00

Okay, this is creepy. It's like they got inside my head. All my favorite colors, my favorite flower, and a vintage vibe. The only thing missing is a little quirkiness.

{flights of fancy}

This compliments the story board nicely, huh? {style me pretty}

Thinking of freelancing?

2010-08-16T16:26:00.000-04:00

Cute stop motion to promote what I predict will be a great book!

via Oh Joy!

Also posted on {nicole galletta} | tumblr

cast your vote!

2010-07-25T01:41:00.004-04:00

well it's vacation time. well, almost. i've got one more work week then i'm taking this show on the road.

there are three objectives for this vacation: plenty of beauty-rest, plenty of beach time, and finally catching up on my reading. that's where you come in. i am planning on taking 5 books with me & want your input! which of the following ten books should i bring and write a quick review on? cast your vote & stay tuned for the reviews!

1) elizabeth gilbert's eat, pray, love
2) barbara ehrenreich's nickel & dimed
3) chelsea handler's chelsea chelsea bang bang
4) ian mcewan's the innocent
5) gary vaynerchuk's crush it!
6) michael j. fox's always looking up
7) kathryn stokett's the help
8) sue grafton's u is for undertow
9) stieg larsson's the girl with the dragon tattoo
10) jacqueline jones' saving savannah

also posted at distinguishing you

Set design: The Bounty Hunter

2010-07-17T22:44:00.002-04:00

So, I watched "The Bounty Hunter" and couldn't help but love the decor Nic's [I am partial to her name as well] house! I searched and searched online for screen shots but to no avail...cellphone shots will have to suffice.

Click to enlarge.

Also posted on {nicole galletta}.

we like pretty things

2010-07-16T22:52:00.020-04:00

nicole said it best when she created our twitter bio:
we are grits&lime. we are also tiffany and nicole. or nicole and tiffany.
we like pretty things.

for me, the past week has been filled with pretty things so i decided to share some of my pretty little finds!

one of my favorite blogs is :: verypurpleperson ::. i've been reading her blog for quite a while and get tons of inspiration there. early this year, she wrote one of the most awe-inspiring entries i have ever read and i have honestly never felt so connected to someone. i too have scoliosis and was moved by her courage and strength. recently, i discovered that she sells the clothes that she makes & i couldn't be more excited. so i bought this lovely little piece and can't wait to get it in the mail (all the way from tokyo!!!)

wednesday morning, i logged into my google reader to see this post from lucky me! a few months ago, i commented on one of her posts that my favorite summer time accessory is my anne kiel necklace that nicole, elyse & i all have. i am very excited to be the winner/new owner of these beauties!

lastly, today i went to dass salon to visit michael for a new hair-do. he worked his magic and i couldn't be more pleased! here's a quick pic of my new do!

while visiting lenox mall, i decided to stop by my absolutely favorite store, anthropologie!!! the dangerous part was that they were having a sale... so i left with these three pretty little things!!!

diy: coffee can lanterns

2010-07-07T14:12:00.006-04:00

I have always love lights (as you can kind of see here) - my currently obsession are lamps. I was the girl that put up the white Christmas lights all around her room in college. In fact, I have rope lighting attached to my spiral staircase - which made for a whimsical display when the lights were off. Currently, I have rope lighting installed under the railing along my entire deck - my dad even installed a switch for it!

For that same deck, I want to tackle this diy project - lanterns made out of coffee cans! How awesome are they? They remind me of St. Augustine.

You can find the instructions on Design*Sponge. This project was provided to Design*Sponge by Maggie Makes so be sure to check out Maggie Makes for more diy and inspiration!

Also posted on {nicole galletta}.

Happy Birthday, America!

2010-07-03T10:44:00.000-04:00

Hope everyone has a safe and happy 4th of July!

Here is a DIY for the 4th of July!

I just had to share these adorable 4th of July sparklers, matchbox covers, and straw ornaments from Twig & Thistle!

I love everything about them!

What You’ll Need:

8.5 x 11″ 80lb white card stock (like this from Paper-Source)
8.5 x 11″ 80lb white text paper (like this from Paper-Source)
Color Printer
Paper Cutter
Double Sided Tape
Ruler
Standard Hole Punch
Sparklers
Straws
Matchbooks (found at my local grocery store)

Instructions:

1. Download the Matchbook and Straw Tags Template and print onto white text paper. Download the Sparkler Card Template and print onto white card stock. Print using the highest quality settings on your color printer to ensure that the patterns and text are clear.

2. Trim out all the shapes using scissors or a sharp blade and making sure to trim off all the black edges. Use a standard hole punch and punch where indicated to allow the straws to be thread through. Carefully trim out the small rectangles in the Sparkler Holders to weave the sparklers through.

3. Secure the wrap around the matchbooks with double sided tape, making sure not to cover up the striker strip. Crease the edges with your fingers or using a bone folder so that they are crisp. Thread the straw through the holes and position towards the top of the straw. Thread the sparklers through the slots.

*For personal use only (non-commercial use).

Thanks Twig & Thistle!

small obsessions are a good thing, right?

2010-06-29T22:02:00.012-04:00

one of the great things about my "day job" is that i can truly do what i love and be myself 100% which is admittedly quite quirky and precisely what has inspired this post.

a large part of my quirkiness is that i have some fairly random obsessions. i was reminded of a few of them recently, so i thought i'd welcome you into my world!

i absolutely love to cook. it's yet another way for me to be crafty and try new things. don't get too excited... that's not the obsession. it's my choice of cooking utensils. i am in love (aka have a deep obsession) with wooden cooking utensils. it seems you can't have too many. at least not in my world. i found these gems over the weekend from crate&barrel! so pretty!!!

i've also always had a little obsession with buttons. i don't actually collect many things. however, buttons are definitely one of them! i have jars of buttons. i buy buttons, save buttons, pick up buttons that i find. i know, i know... random. but i warned you!

the last of my tiny obsessions that i'll share (before i scare you off...) is journals/notepads. i've always had a fascination with paper products! ironically, one of my best friends was a print management major in college so she was always working on projects for school that quickly became little gems for tiffany! today, i game across these beautiful journals and desk sets at papercrave. yes, please!!! they're gorgeous!!!

so what little obsessions do you have?

also posted on distinguishing you!

good friends, great inspiration, & a grits&lime reunion

2010-06-24T23:24:00.011-04:00

hello all! it's me, tiffany! let me start off by saying how much i miss having my other half of grits&lime here in atlanta! recently, i went out with the girls and couldn't help but miss my bestie. so in honor of her absence, i wore grits&lime!

my "day job" has been keeping me pretty hectic not only here in atlanta, but traveling as well! a couple of weekends ago, i opted to cancel my plans & have a crafty weekend! one of my good friends (who recently announced that she's moving away...) commissioned an awesome painting from me! it turned out to be so quirky and fun! i absolutely adore it!

grits&lime is in the middle of an atlanta reunion this week and this chick couldn't be more excited!!! to celebrate we had a ladies night at sip n' strokes! can you think of a more ridiculously crafty way to celebrate? i don't think so! here is my creation from tonight's wonderful reunion!

to me, great friends are the best inspiration!

The orange couch

2010-06-19T17:28:00.007-04:00

Whenever I go to St. Augustine, Florida, there are several thrift stores I have to hit. As soon as I walked into one store, I immediately saw it.

A glorious orange couch.

There it is in the garage - which means, yes, I bought it! True, it was the orangeness that drew my eye to it in the begin with but look at those lines! Did I mention it's a sleeper? Did I mention they were selling it for $100? Did I mention it's in great shape? And did I mention I ended up getting it for $80?

Now the debate is whether I will keep it orange or not. Part of the selling feature was that it would be easy to recover if I should want to. I know because I asked the other half of grits&lime, Tiffany, before purchasing. But honestly the orange may be growing on me. It would definitely be a conversation piece. I am thinking of keeping the couch orange and painting the walls a light gray. Of course that means all the throw pillows, lamp shade, and rug that I already have - not to mention, painted walls, would have to be adjusted - thus it's a toss up.

Hudson seems to be fond of the comfy couch but color...well, I suppose he could care less as dogs are supposedly color blind. So the debate is on - keep it orange and adjust the couch's surroundings or adjust the couch?

Here are some photos for inspiration.

[apartment therapy]

[his house, her help]

[Vintage Indie]

[Young House Love]

[apartment therapy]

So, will the orange couch remain orange or will it be recovered? Stay tuned to find out.

The office blues (and grays)

2010-06-05T17:30:00.003-04:00

First, I was inspired by the following two images. For no reason other than I liked the color. I love the contrast between the white and blue in the first image and I love the richness of the blue against the wood floors in the second.

And then I moved out of my townhouse. Pretty much established (and mourned) the fact that I would be renting again and would no longer have creative freedom when it came to paint colors.

Now, I am moving back into my house - a house I never thought I would be living in again. I am really excited though! And I am allowing myself to be excited and write this post. In fact, I have been patiently waiting for this to happen. I just need to be patient a little bit longer.

Let's get back to the blue walls. They are bold. I usually reserve bold colored walls for my half bath and I might just do that this time around.

{apartment therapy}

Which brings me to another subject: the dining room. Previously when I lived in my townhouse, I had the dining room serving as a dining room. Here is a photo of my dining room (sans furniture).

Considering in two and a half years, I used the dining room just once I have decided to get smart. The dining room will now become an office/craft room. I decided it would better serve my lifestyle right now as I really do not host too many family gatherings at my house.

That is where the blue paint inspired me for this room. I think the blue would be a bit too much though. So, I am going with another favorite color, gray.

Here is some of my inspiration:

{apartment therapy}

{EcoManor}

{apartment therapy}

{House of Turquoise via diane bergeron}

{apartment therapy}

{apartment therapy } and {House of Turquoise}

So, what do most of these rooms have in common? Gray and turquoise. Well, most of them. And what else do some of these rooms have in common? Yellow.

The plan now is the nix the boxy window treatments and replace it with something that will hang, maybe even flow when the windows are open.

Here is a desk chair that I have now.

{IKEA}

*Note that the pink is much more vibrant in person

Here is a chandelier that was gifted to me some time back. It is not exactly the same but you get the idea. I would take down the existing chandelier and replace it with this so that it looks less formal.

{oly}

A yellow rug similar to this. Or maybe even turquoise one.

{Anthropologie}

I actually love this rug. And the chandelier is similar to one I already have.

{design*sponge}

DIY artwork in turquoise. There is that rug again, this time in brown.

{young house love}

So that plan in full is to paint the walls a pretty shade of light gray. I haven't decided if I am painting both the top and bottom of the chair rails the same color. If I do paint them differently it will just be two similar tones of the gray. The curtains will be replaced, along with the chandelier. Accents colors will be in yellow and turquoise with a dashes of a vibrant pink - at least that's the image I have in my head.

Also, posted on {nicole galletta}.

très vrai

2010-06-03T20:49:00.000-04:00

{the green gal}

grits&lime finds: poster

2010-04-29T20:52:00.001-04:00

$20 from Vol25

grits&lime finds: lamps

2010-04-18T16:07:00.004-04:00

We like to share items that we see while we're out and about. Items that are modern, beautiful, and most of all affordable!

Our most recent finds are lamps:

Target

Base and shade sold separately.

Comes in two different sizes:

Marshalls

These lamps come with shades.
The top lamps also come in a subtle lime green and are $29.99. The bottom lamps are $39.99.

iPad sleeves - $20

2010-04-18T15:39:00.004-04:00

Who would have thought our iPad sleeves would be so popular? We haven't opened shop yet but we're getting lots of orders for custom made iPad sleeves.

Here is one that Tiffany made for a customer.

Want one? Email us.

Cheery lanterns

2010-04-12T23:33:00.003-04:00

Every time I see these images, I can't help but smile. They brighten my day!

Be sure and check out the rest of the images from this wedding on Style Me Pretty and Tanja Lippert Photography. Prepare to be blown away.

Also featured on {nicole galletta}.

Liberty of London

2010-03-26T19:23:00.002-04:00

Has anyone seen the new Liberty of London line at Target?

It's so very cute! The girly girl in me finds it adorable. And it's throughout the store, home decor, home and garden, women's clothes and accessories, kids, even men's apparel. Tiff & I ventured to Target on my recent trip to Atlanta and discovered this flowery gem. Tiff even bought this adorable wallet:

I love this storage bin. So cute! Check out more of their goodies here.

You can take the fun Liberty of London Patternality quiz. Here are my results. You can take the quiz here. If you do, copy and paste your results in the comments section. :)

inspired art

2010-03-07T17:42:00.004-05:00

Hello All. It's me, the other half of grits&lime, tiffany! It's been a few months since I've been motivated to pull out my paintbrushes and put paint to canvas. I've had a lot of inspiration lately, partly due to the people around me and also my recent travels. Yesterday, for the first time in a while, I felt inspired. So, here are my two newest pieces. Enjoy!

Twin size curtains

2010-03-07T13:48:00.001-05:00

I am loving these curtains? Why? Because they were made out of a twin size BED SHEET.

And I am loving the color combination. I absolutely love gray shades. This gray shade of blue is very similar to a color I would like to add to my own home. And i love the burnt orange as an accent. You can probably tell I like these colors from my personal blog, huh?

Turkish Bazaar

2010-03-04T13:37:00.004-05:00

Fell in love with these Turkish bowls I saw on Decor8. I just find the colors and design/texture gorgeous.

They were purchased from Istanbul's Grand Bazaar. Here is, Iznikium, an online Turkish bazaar though.

Also featured on {nicolegalletta }

Happy Valentine's Weekend

2010-02-12T22:56:00.000-05:00

{i. Anton}

{can anyone name the source for this? I am not sure}

P.S. It snowed in Savannah today. A rare event.

Bokeh

2010-02-10T00:05:00.004-05:00

There is something very beautiful and simple about lights and water. These images immediately reminded me of how the rain causes the stop lights to reflect of the road.

{Images via bokeh photobucket}

My first auction

2010-02-07T23:28:00.003-05:00

And how Twitter made it 10 times more fun.

Last week I went to an auction that a little town outside of Savannah holds every Thursday. My dad and I share a passion for antiquing, or maybe I should use the cooler term that Aaron Draplin uses - junkin'. There is something about finding old treasures and wondering what its history is. Sometimes you can find items that are not even old at all, but they just seem to speak to you. And other times you find objects that others would completely write off but I think it takes a special gift to be able to see an object and to see what its true potential could be.

At the auction, I decided to bid on a chair. From a distance it looked as if the chair was old but had been reupholstered. Upon further inspection, I saw that the chair was actually new. Either way, I liked it. My dad, on the other hand, was not as enthusiastic about the chair's design and color. "But it has no arms," he stated.

I decided it would be fun to do a little impromptu survey via Twitter. And here are the results.

Final #chair stats: Nine liked - Four disliked. Another two people were on the fence

This wasn't including mine and my dad's votes.

Here's what makes me laugh. Aside from one whole vote (two 50/50 votes from two guys), eight of the people that said they liked the chair were women. All three of the whole dislike votes were men and the two half votes were men as well. Thus, four dislike votes, all of which whom disliked the chair were men.

You probably want to see the chair, huh? Or know if I won the bid? Well, here's the photo - so, yes, I won the bid! :)

The maximum amount I wanted to offer was $80. I won it at $60. It was a very interesting experience. I plan on putting the chair in my bedroom - which is painted a soft blue, so I think it will look pretty good.

Also featured on {nicole galletta}.

True story.

2010-02-05T18:21:00.003-05:00

{via fffound}

Also featured on{nicole galletta}.

A DIY DIY space

2010-02-03T00:59:00.006-05:00

What's better than a designated space for DIY crafts and projects? A creative, DIY space.

To clarify, I was just thinking today how I have a desk for my computer and to work from but I really need a designated space for painting, beading, and all the other projects I constantly have going on. I stumbled upon this - perfect! Why look for another desk or a table when you can simply create a space like this?

To modify, I would make the desk area wider for painting and put a lip in the front to prop a canvas up. Next, take plywood about the length of the desk and about wide as my arm's length - cover in fabric and hang up over desk to tack up photos and inspiration and most importantly to prevent paint from the canvas smearing onto the wall.

Love the built-in cubby hole to hold craft/art supplies and books!

{image orginally on Design*Sponge but seen on apartment therapy}

Post also featured on { nicole galletta }

Poppy colors

2010-02-03T00:15:00.000-05:00

These colors certainly POP on a dreary day like we had in Savannah today.

{Style Me Pretty}

FEIST

2010-02-01T16:07:00.003-05:00

Loving this Feist poster!

{ffffound}

And love this song by her:

Mushaboom - Feist

Post also featured on { nicole galletta }

Turqouise/Pink Love

2010-01-29T17:44:00.000-05:00

I have always loved these two colors together. And when it comes to flowers, it just works. I especially love the Mason jar look. After all, Mason jars are a staple of the South and grits&lime is the South!

{Once Wed}

{Ritzy Bee}

{Grey Likes Weddings}

{pretty good}

Inspiring.

2010-01-29T13:40:00.005-05:00

{and it's love}

Cute little find...

2010-01-27T22:30:00.001-05:00

Just wanted to get this blog a rollin' and share the cute little vase I found at Goodwill while in St. Augustine, Florida over MLK weekend.

Hello, Darlings!

2010-01-22T00:24:00.008-05:00

Let us first introduce ourselves. We are grits&lime. grits&lime brings you delicious handmade jewelry and accessories, dresses, artwork, and maybe even some home decor.

grits&lime started out as a creative outlet for two friends. For these two friends, it has quickly become a new way of thinking.

What's in a name?

grits&lime. So, what is it? grits&lime was started by my dear friend, Tiffany, and I. While we are not quite ready to dive in and tell you exactly what it is just yet, we can humor you and tell you about the name.

It has multiple meanings.

Grits are a symbol of the South for Tiffany and I. And we were both raised in Savannah. What's ironic is that neither one of us really care for grits all that much. Tiffany actually eats rice instead. But we are proud of where we came from.

Grits can also symbolize the "grit" that comes with life. I've always said that life is filled with two things: grit and beauty. And that, in itself, is beautiful. Life will always have some grit in it at some point or another. It's natural. But you know what helps? A nice, tall margarita. With a lime.

Grits, if you actually enjoy the taste of them, are warm and comforting. They are a comfort food for a lot of people. They symbolize the good things in life, just as the margarita you drink to celebrate the good things in life. The margarita with a lime.

So, grits&lime it became.