Classic Style Using Authentic Treasures

It's all about living an AUTHENTIC life, being true to who we are and finding beauty and inspiration in our daily surroundings. Decorating our homes with found items and antique and vintage treasures, we create a personal ~ classic style ~ that defines who we are!

Saturday, July 21, 2012

The Charming Footstool

Have you ever considered
the lowly footstool
to be an important part of 
your decor?
 
What do you notice first in this room
designed by Sarah Richardson?


I eyed the pair of upholstered stools 
in front of the arm chairs...
they are like little gems.

As gorgeous as they are,
this is something everyone can do.
   
The stools don't have to match, 
although there is something to be said
for symmetry.
 
If using a lot of color
or a busy pattern, 
twin stools may work better
than an unmatched pair.


You can find two small tables 
or two piano benches...
whatever works! 

Wrap the tops in a bit of foam and batting 
and upholster with your favorite fabric...
you can have the same look.


 An upholstered footstool
is an inexpensive but
clever way to introduce a special
color or fabric to your room design.

 

 If you prefer antiques
or a vintage style,
there are plenty out there,
with original textiles
like this tapestry,


or gorgeous cane tops
with turned legs.


 Or you can always pick up
a great stool anywhere
and upholster it with
a grain sack or vintage remnant
like I did with this one.



 
 Brenda, of Cottage4c blog
created an adorable
show-stopping footstool
out of a Coke crate.



 (via)

 They truly don't get 
any more charming than that!

So whether you
go for one or two,


~footstools
are an incredible way
to add the extra touches
you need for a finished look. 

Live your Authentic Life ~
Be the Real You!
Blessings,
Martha






Monday, July 16, 2012

The Little Library

I love stumbling upon surprises!

I was taking photos in town and
came upon this little building.

At first I thought it might have been
a doll house turned bird mansion... 

but to my surprise, it was a
Little Library!



 Titled the Little Free Library -
I was so intrigued!  

You know I had to check it out!



 The sign reads:
"This little Free Library is a gift from friends
who wanted to PAY IT FORWARD.
They hope you will do the same!"
"Take a book, return a book."



 I found all sorts of books inside - 
for children and adults!



 What a charming building!

Great attention to detail - 
it just makes it that much more special!




 This particular lending library was donated
by our local county 
Retired Educators Group!

Puts a lump in my throat
as they continue to care
and give to their community!


 Wouldn't this be a special treat
to find in a park or
on a city corner in your town?



 Kudos to Mr. Richard Negley!
He did a fantastic job!

Truly this Little Free Library
is more than just a gift of reading ~
but one of friendship, 
compassion and community!



Notice this library is called The Conner School.

Teacher, Mary Lou Conner, 
who passed away in 2009 at the
age of 95 was a charter member of
our local Retired Teachers Association
and over her life received many
awards and accolades.

Her love of education and
her support and time spent volunteering
in several literacy programs,
improved countless lives
in our rural area.

In her memory,
this Little Free Library
continues to 
inspire the love of reading!




I had to dig a little further ~

Little Free Library
began in 2009 by a gentleman named
Todd Bol honoring his late mother,
teacher and educator,
June A. Bol .


This Little Free Library
sits above the St. Croix River
in Hudson, Wisconsin.

What a wonderful
memorial,
as the program
has touched thousands
of people
in the United States
and now Europe!

If you are interested in starting your own
community Little Free Library
or want to read more about it, 
visit  

Their Mission ~

To promote literacy and the love of reading by building free book exchanges worldwide.
To build a sense of community as we share skills, creativity, and wisdom across generations
To build more than 2,510 libraries around the world - more than Andrew Carnegie!