Thursday, January 21, 2010

Heart and Home and a Wet, White Winter

Hi! I'm going to be real quick, because I'm afraid the power's going to go out on us again! Due to the rainy and very windy winter storm our electricity went out at 7:00 yesterday morning, and it was out until late afternoon. Going most of the day without heat, lights, and running water was a gentle reminder for me to remember those less fortunate, and to offer help to those who are struggling daily under far more extreme and difficult circumstances.




 When the lights went out around here, I knew that eventually power would be restored to our community- I just climbed back into bed and snuggled under my comforter. Thank you people at PG&E!! I was thrilled when the lights came back on, and grateful for all the comforts I generally take for granted.




Before this big storm, I managed to make a few meager changes to the decor after the holidays.
Nothing fancy, just some lightening and brightening up
 of the spaces we spend most of our time in.



I kept things very simple, used a lot of white, and really pared down for now.
I'm trying to reduce clutter around the house - while still keeping a cozy feel to each room, and keeping it bright for more of the gray and gloomy days that surely are ahead of us this winter.



On a good day, when the sun streams in these windows it really warms up this room.
But we haven't seen the sun in a few days now!



Even though it was chilly in here yesterday with no heat,
I was still loving my birds and nests on the living room mantel. ( go see more!)






The new burlap runner, (click for a tutorial)  which I made for the dining room table,
 adds just the right touch
for a casual, wintry ambiance.
.




If you've been stopping by Heart and Home for awhile now,
you know how much I love scented candles!
I light them whenever I feel like it, their warm glow warms the space up so much.
I have so many all around the house, it really isn't a big problem when the lights do go out.
 I just whip out the lighter and in a few minutes our house is aglow with candlelight!

I hope all of you are staying warm and dry inside your lovely homes this winter.
I plan to share a bit of my good fortune with others, and show more gratitude for the things that make my life so much easier. That's what I'm doing right now as I type this in my warm office! Little Maggie is happy, too. Her favorite spot by the heater vent is the best place to nap!



Thanks for stopping by! By the way, I just realized:
it's getting close to my 100th post, I can't believe it!
We'll have to do something fun to celebrate!
 I was thinking of starting a new party on Wednesdays - any suggestions?
Leave me a comment!
Until next time,
XO
Heidi

I'm linking up with Cindy at My Romantic Home, for Show and Tell Friday,  and Beautiful Life Friday at The Inspired Room. Thanks Melissa!

14 comments:

Kelee Katillac said...

Hi Heidi!

Little Maggie is so cute! It is so nice to de-clutter after the holidays. It all looks bright and fresh!

love,kelee

vignette design said...

Hi Heidi,
I hope you are staying warm and dry! Love your clean, spring look. Maggie is adorable too. --Delores

w00ts up said...

Love your house! It's so cozy! One look at the candles made me think of enjoying being inside away from the cold and rain with a cup of hot chocolate. Thanks for sharing!

P.S.Maggie is cute!

Sweet Bee Cottage said...

Your home looks warm and cozy - just what we need after all these storms!

Diann @ the thrifty Groove said...

Hi Heidi! Everything looks so inviting and cozy!

Debbiedoos said...

Little miss Maggie is adorable! So was your display!!~~

Hootin Anni said...

Love the angel cherub perched on the shelf ....the lighting and the figurine are one to charm a soul!!

And the doggie photo?........priceless!!

My show n tell is nothing but January Clearance items that I found if you'd like to view them....

HERE

Would really enjoy your company today if you have time to stop by.

~ ~ Ahrisha ~ ~ said...

Nice post for doing it quick. It takes me longer than that to get it together in my mind. What's with that? Have a fun weekend.

Julie said...

Love all your photos. So pretty. Especially love your white table tray, and of course I adore your Maggie. SO sweet. Thanks for sharing her in Show and Tell. Enjoyed my visit.

Barrie said...

Isn't this weather crazy?! We lost power yesterday, but not for long. (San Diego)

Gail said...

Love your house and I too am a candle lover. I light them all the time.

Stay dry and warm and have a great weekend.

Marianne said...

Your living room looks as if the sun is shining from within! It really looks very nice and inviting.

Linda Q said...

Awww Maggie is cute! Love your vignette with the birds, nests etc. Nice!
Hope the power cooperates!
Linda

Melissa @ The Inspired Room said...

Thanks for inviting me over! Your home is lovely, the ligh looks so pretty at your place and I adore the little nests and birds!!