Inspired Design

Inspired Update

2012-02-18T21:53:00.000-08:00

Well, some of you have inquired if I am still here?

Here is a little update! We travel to Chicago & Colorado Springs for the Harvest Show & Focus on the Family Meetings.

My cup is overflowing with thankfulness, inspiration and joy as I look forward to the next week with my family as we travel, and tomorrow our first Father/Son/Mentor event for Iron27.org !

My dear friend/Inspired31.org Producer, Marta, and I just returned from CWIMA in Nashville where we joined my longtime friend and speaking partner, as of late, Lorianne! Inspired Design sponsored gathering Click here to see 3min Clip of Inspired Story

To say we were inspired by these ladies would be the greatest understatement of my life: truly.

Carol Swain, Author of Be The People, amazed and inspired us with The 7 Mantles of Cultural Influence from her book. We were riveted with the astounding truths she shared and were deeply called to action. She will be in California to speak soon: highly recommend hearing her or reading her new book.

Billy Graham's daughter Anne, Grammy winning artist, Sharon Skaags, Thelma Wells (My fave), author, and Kathleen Cooke, Producer led a panel of what media culture is on our society in general today: very dark. They inspired us to be the light!

Kay Arthur amazed us (@ young age of 78) with 7 Insights for our culture. The best point: If WE don't step forward soon the America we knew will no longer exist.

Vonette Bright, Widow of Campus Crusade for Christ Co-Founder of, encouraged us with wise words: Women determine our culture: If we lose family, we will lose the nation.

I promise to give you more info. especially if you reply or comment you would like to hear more.

The other reason post have been more sparse can be seen in the pictures below:

My new niece, Catherine! (Beautiful)

Daughter & her beau, in dance performance

Tea with dear friends before Speaking engagement

Friendship Luncheon given to dear friends, by dear friend

Inspired31.org events: Dannah Gresh speaking on "Removing Mask of Perfection", and DeeDee Meyer on "Overcoming Anxiety"

Each one I may do a blog on as they were so life changing!

For now, May you be blessed, Beloved daughters of the King!

I have been so inspired lately with the first book of Jeremiah. Each of these women mentioned it...worth a read...interesting that it has been mentioned by all!

Paris, Antiques, My Daughter, My Friends

2012-01-25T09:26:00.000-08:00

Yesterday on a radio interview, via phone, for a station in Connecticut, the host asked me, "Do you really think God cares about Interior Design?" Yes and no. Does he care about impressive interiors? No. Does he care about each and every person in the design industry, each home, each person that lives in those homes? Yes. I believe God cares about everything, however it may be different than how we perceive how he cares. It all goes back to relationships, talents and how we use them.

For me: I watched my husband Scott use his gifts/skills as a dentist in Romania for Heart of Hope Ministries Intl. (Where the money from our book Inspired Design goes) every year (20yrs) fixing the teeth of children without parents/children in poverty. As I was in Romania trying to help (crying myself to sleep at night because of the tremendous sadness of those children) I decided then and there that I would figure out a way, when my children were older, to help. How? I had no ideas as design is not exactly a skill that can easily be applied to orphans. But I knew God had a great plan....I needed only to wait on Him. Years later...the book...the proceeds to Heart of Hope.

It is not stopping there: Inspired31.org, Iron27, and more.

While preparing for a "Day of Home and Hospitality" that my girlfriend Lorianne and I will be speaking at on February 4th, we have been talking so much about just that: celebrating each other's gifts. The world's way of doing things is all about perfection and competition. The opposite way is: God's beautiful way to do what you can, where you are, with what you have. (Combination of many scripture references). One of the things I most love to do is design!

So I thought I'd share with you the trip to Paris with my daughter, her best friend, Imogen, and her mom, Francesca! This was five years ago and we are all still dear friends. Blessing! It took alot of creativity to combine the use of design to benefit God's kingdom, but God was patient with me, until I could see it could be done. Hope you enjoy this tour through Paris. You'll a photograph showing each of our great Paris love's! Imogen: Books, Hannah: Food, Francesca: Shakespeare, Roxanne: Antiques!

Zephaniah 3:17

He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, He will calm your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs

White Design

2012-01-19T21:55:00.000-08:00

I loooove designing with all white, so I thought I'd share with you a home-makeover of a typical 70's home that we really transformed. With fresh neutral greige (grey & beige) paint, and white upholstery pieces, we freshened it up.

Although I am not doing much "professional design" this year, as I am devoting all my non-family time to Inspired31.org and the book, I still looooove designing. I love it because it is so much fun to help women create a home that really looks like what they love!

If you want to get ideas, join me on Pinterest, which is like a virtual bulletin board. If these pictures are really big when you read it on email, click the grey "Inspired Design Blog" words at the top and it will take you to the original page, where the pictures will appear the proper size!

Happy Weekend!

More Valentines Ideas

2012-01-12T11:41:00.000-08:00

More Valentines Day Ideas

So glad you liked the last batch of pics! I will leave you simply with more photographs & an inspiring encouragement I was thankful to find on facebook: Roxanne, I am being seriously convicted and encouraged (simultaneously!) by your book. In my quiet time, going through Acts, I was reminded that it was the hospitality of one woman - Lydia- to some itinerant preaches (Paul & the gang) that led to Christianity spreading to Europe. So much for my "Oh, I'm- not- gifted- in -that -area excuse!" I have set two new resolutions for the year, towards making myself hospitable. :) First, the work...then the parties! Thank you! Cara S

Beautiful Valentines Day Ideas

2012-01-10T11:14:00.000-08:00

Creative Active Ways to Encourage Others on Valentines Day: Actions Speak Louder than Words...

KIND WORDS

A handwritten note in the mail with quotes, scriptures and words of encouragement is a wonderful thing.

A sticky note on your child/husband’s pillow. A note on the bathroom mirror or car window in red lipstick saying “I love you”.

An email to say “Thank you, you bless me” or a poem, scripture or photograph to remind them they are remembered.

If someone has lost a loved one, some kind words of ways that loved one inspired you to do something better, that their legacy is living on.

AN INVITATION, TIME

Take time out of your days to meet someone for coffee, lunch, long walk, or a phone message with a sweet sentiment. If you have more time take a picnic basket to their home. Set up a lunch, tea or coffee, with all your tea cups or such and candle. It is a lovely surprise. Just rinse when finish and pack back up so they don’t even have to do dishes. They have a lovely memory of a special time.

THOUGHTFUL GESTURE

Flowers hanging on the front door handle, pretty tiny package in the mailbox with a beautiful red bow, cookies delivered to the front door. Perhaps a special plate for your children that says you are special for breakfast with something that you have noticed your child doing especially well on lately. Especially significant if your child has struggled with something, comment on their effort if you can’t think of anything else. (Friends as well)

A BEAUTIFUL DINNER

Of course this takes more time, but try for a beautiful table setting complete with candles, fresh greens or flowers and a lovely menu either handwritten or printed out on your computer. (Go onto my pinterest account, via my blog, and you can print out some darling printouts, including gift tags, and much more) Don’t concentrate on the gourmet or complicated quality of the meal: remember it is about relationship and encouragement!

VALENTINES DINNER

A beautiful table for Valentines simply consists of reds, pinks and perhaps some purple. (Although it could be beautiful in all white) Of course, it has to have some hearts and some colorful candles. Nothing encourages more than a meal together. It begins with the invitation, continues through the effort and thought of the beauty of the table and really is significant because of the bonding and conversation. Bless you as you bless others.

All silver in today's blog is from my grandpda & great-grandpa (Allan Adler & Porter Blanchard)

Writers Block...for Valentines Day

2012-01-08T20:50:00.000-08:00

Asked to write an article for several other venues, I experienced terrible writers block. Yesterday I had an epiphany in the morning and have been writing, setting the table and photographing since...

Here is part I of the article, on hospitality:

As we are inspired how to show love to others, we must first ask Why?

Quite simply because in Romans 12:10 &13 we are told to be devoted to one another in brotherly love, to honor one another above ourselves. To share with God’s people who are in need, to Practice Hospitality. Notice the vocabulary: practice, not perfect.

In America, our culture is suffering, as our people are. In part because popular media culture gears everything to perfection. We are bombarded with messages that if we aren’t the very best at something, we just shouldn’t bother. We compare ourselves to others, rather than knowing our worth in God’s eyes.

I suffer from insecurity and wonder if I can be creative enough to inspire. Are the tips original enough? Are the photographs beautiful enough? Are they too simple for some, too fancy for another? Do I seem “fluffy” without depth? Frozen with inaction...writers block begins. Beginning to catch myself wishing I was more intelligent, more spiritual-sounding, more patient...I begin to compare myself to other women. So, the pen is laid down, deciding I’ll come back to it later.

The problem: my thoughts revolve completely around me. My creativity, my skills, my ability. This is not about me but about God’s purpose for me. I have spent intimate hours in prayer, I know the scriptures. I know better. I suddenly realize the bigger picture; I can’t do it, but I can through Christ who strengthens me. Writers block has broken.

This dance in my mind between my preciousness in His sight and the enemy’s interjections have slowed me down, for days. God showed me this dance is the very reason for us to love others; to encourage each other. Because we are human we suffer from doubt, insecurity, and rejection of one sort or another. We are God’s tool to encourage others. God uses us as His hands to love others, but make no mistake it is His power, His grace and the Holy Spirit that do the real work, not ours.

I am not the most intellectual person you will ever meet, although I can have a mean political debate. God’s path of creativity began with a family history of silversmithing eight generations back, a degree from USC, design school in Paris, then design school in Los Angeles. Call them spiritual or otherwise, they were the gifts God saw fit to give to me. Who am I to argue with my creator. They are unique and I celebrate them. What are your magnificent and unique gifts that you can use to inspire others?

I do not want the gifts received as a blessing from God to “turn into spiritual dry rot,” as Ann Voscamp suggests in her inspiring book One thousand gifts, as the manna did when it was hoarded in Exodus 16:20. I want to use my blessings.

Inadequacies and all, imperfections and all: I want to inspire others to Practice Hospitality and to LOVE others. Yes, capital letters: L O V E.

Here are some pictures from years ago from my moms Valentines party! She made all the cookies! The next several posts are all the "Part II" HOW TO's all in Pictures....

2011-12-31T18:09:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year's Eve!

I am so excited for 2012! Since my daughter is a senior (have I mentioned that?) I have a bunch of sentimental gatherins, fun and things being planned to make the most of her last official year at home.

Instead of doing a typical blog, I decided to post a sampling of what we have highlighted this year on Inspired Design's Blog. Because it is a combination of design, hospitality and family the post can be varied, so I hope you enjoy looking into some of the fun I am posting.

I have a favor to ask of you! (Huh!) Although I know some of you are new to the blog, I'd love to know what you'd like more of...

Just hit "REPLY" or go to the "real" blog, by hitting Inspired Design Blog, at the top of this email and click on it, and it will take you to the real blog. You can add your comments there!

(The pictures are the proper size there!)

I want to know what you want more pictures of...more tips on...etc.

I have been asked to do several speaking engagements this spring, and would like to know what YOU all would like to know/do/read about/see more of in 2012!

Thank you!

If you let me know, I will enter you in a drawing for a copy of Inspired Design AND a surprise tea basket that I will put together and send to you!

I'm off to serve Boeff Bourgeneon to friends and I wish you a lovely evening!

Here is a design magazine that I love that did a little two-page spread on Inspired Design....

Above is a wonderful Thank You celebration for Inspired31.org teens to thank them for our first year and a half of our group! Below is a photograph from our Hospitality Book! It was taken in Karen Armstrong's Kitchen with her gorgeous plate collection.

Above the 700 Show Page from our appearance

Below is my Grandparents home from which so many wonderful childhood memories are from, and where my love of design was birthed. In fact, their ceiling shown, of white washed barn wood: a real hip and new thing to do in the 50's was a favorite of mine. When we redid our kitchen and pushed up our ceiling I did the same treatment, although since their house had sold...I had forgotten they had that in theirs. Only after I was finished with the project and I began our book project did I realize that I had copied their ceiling from memory...deeply etched in my subconscious! How is that for sweet & sentimental!

The Bausman Los Angles Showroom's Book Launch & Silver Show for Allan Adler Design, which is my grandfathers business that my cousin has purchased and taken over. Danny now creates all the beautiful silver that began in our family 8 generations ago.

Below my sweet friends and founding producers of Inspired31.org. In our intial launch we sent out 1800 hand addressed letters and fact sheets, each one hand addressed and prayed over. I just love M & T.

Above is me in Nashville with my dear friend, Lorianne, of 18 years. An inspiring friend who loves the Lord with all her heart...she was a speaker at Inspired31.org and will come back out in February to speak again from another church who asked us to speak together on Hospitality and The Home.

Below is our Boutique to raise money to begin Inspired31.org at my home. It was very successful and fun, thanks to hundreds of you!

Here was some mag.s that so generously featured Inspired Design Stories this year. What a blessing! We have been able to give almost $20,000 to Heart of Hope. One check is written and will be sent out tomorrow! Yea for the New Year and YOU!

Below is a fabulous table my mom set for a baby shower for her dear friends daughter. Lovely Table!

Wonderful Chalkboard....New Chapter friends from Santa Barbara Chapter of Inspired31.org

Table my sweet daughter set all by herself, for an event...

Pics from our travels this summer!

My grandpa Allan Adler above....my great grandpa Porter Blanchard below...designing....sooo love....

The best gift of Christmas

2011-12-24T10:33:00.000-08:00

The Best gift of all...

I love wrapping! I love plain kraft paper with beautiful bows, in clusters! I decided this year I'm sticking with what I love!

I chose all kinds of sparkling ribbons...

to nestle in between the sparkling ornaments...

I love Christmas, because I love what Christmas celebrates: The birth of our savior.

Christmas often isn't the perfect day, for many people. There has been loss, deep loss. There has been relationship that have ended, some that will never be mended. There has been disappointment and discouragement, some without resolve. But there is a truth that conquers all, a gift that comforts and a gift that saves. The birth of Jesus Christ.

When I see wrapped packages this is what I think of. Although not deserving, I have a saviour born for me (and you) on Christmas day. Because of that gift I am able to experience true joy, love and thanksgiving, even in the midst of life on earth. Joshua, Chapter 1, is very encouraging, especially verse 9: Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. True encouragement!

I pray for you all of these things today, on Christmas Eve.

I am thankful for many thing, including you. It is a blessing to be able to use the gifts I have to hopefully encourage and funny enough I am encouraged right back, by so many of you! Some of you email me, some are beginnning to leave comments on the blog (click on the above grey Inspired Design to see actual blog, where pictures are the "perfect" size)

So, for me aside from the biggest gift of all are my friends and family! To be loved is what I am most thankful for. Below is a beautiful mantle from my friend Kathleen's home. She hosted our Inspired31.org Christmas Party, all of which I was so blessed by.

These women and girls are treasures to me and I love them dearly. They are the founders of Inspired31.org, the mother-teenage daughter group that has blessed us all more than we could have imagined was possible. I am thankful for Inspired, where inspiring women (shown here, but also including Chelsea Cameron, Dannah Gresh, Susie Shellenberger, Debbie Marshall, the missionary who runs Heart of Hope etc..) have shown our daughters that being a Christian woman today is not only possible, but a beautiful and unique thing.

My family, whom I love dearly!

Thanks be to God for his unspeakable Gift— indescribable, inestimable, incomparable inexpressible - precious beyond words. Lois Lebar

Merry Christmas to you and yours!

With love, Roxanne

Little Christmas Touches, Snuggly Spots

2011-12-20T11:50:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!

Yesterday I had lunch with a lovely new friend who is also a psychologist here in California. We were talking about the complexities of being transparent and authentic while walking the "Philippians 4:8" kind of way: focusing on what is true, excellent, lovely and praiseworthy. So let me share something that is very important to me, while focusing on Phil 4:8...

The blog, book, et all, is about hospitality NOT entertaining. I was interviewed by a radio station this morning in Ohio about that subject, so I decided to write about that today. Basically, my opinion is "entertaining" is the world's version of "hospitality". Entertaining can become it's own "thing", while hospitality tries to keep it's focus on honoring and blessing others.

Romans 12:13 tells us to Share with God's people who are in need, Practice Hospitality.

Here are some ways to touch your home, so you and your home can touch others....

You can never truly enjoy Christmas until you can look up into the Father's face and tell him you have received his Christmas gift. --John R. Rice

My family room is always warm and cozy because it has so much red it in it, but adding a red throw blanket or pillow can do so much to transform a room to a Christmas delight.

Sparkly lights and some greenery with my regular bathroom items make is a truly special spot. Those twinkly lights can make every nook look more special.

Our powder room. Little bows are so easy to tie on trees, and very inexpensive. It really adds a great dimension. I especially love white bows or plaid bows to make a great Christmas statement.

Over the last 18 years I have slowly collected some lovely red pillows, not all Christmasy. When put all together however, they look like a Christmas collection! A cozy nook to read and have some tea or chat with a kid. (or stack presents to wrap or laundry!!!)

Amazing how a few white flowers and pinecones can make something look like a winter wonderland. Candles are always a must!

I am starting a teacup Christmas ornament collection, so here are the beginnings of my tree! I got these trees at big lots (cheap!!!) with these little plastic bases, two for $24. Prelit, too! Again, at Christmas it is about sparkling so lights and candles are so inexpensive.

My favorite wrapping is kraft paper (or newspaper) with either white or black ribbon. It is spectacular in it's simplicity and crispness! I save all the "scraps" from tying bows, and use them on a package, see the left package, no bow! No waste.

A beautiful Christmas.

2011-12-18T21:28:00.000-08:00

(You can click on Inspired Design blog, above, to go directly to the blog page, to comment)

We have recently been talking about what really beautiful is...on a few different venues, and truly that is what my life's passion has become. Beautiful is dear family and friends. Beautiful is living in a country where are free to worship as we choose, founded on the principles of Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Benjamin Franklin, men raised by devoted praying moms whose principles were immovable. Beautiful is kindness. Beautiful is seeing life through Philippians 4:8.

Beautiful is being with people who celebrate you and who you are, flaws and all! Beautiful is blessing others with encouragement: Practicing Hospitality, Romans 12:13!

This brings us to the most recent "Blessing" we had in our home, the 15th Birthday Blessing for my son born on December 16th. My Christmastime baby, above. Essentially we shower words of blessing (in everyone's own way) over the honoree. It never ceases to amaze me how powerful the simple act of encouraging others with the truth of who God created them to be is!

Hannah reading her sweet words to her brother. It was so encouraging that we couldn't all keep from smiling. Because they are normal siblings, I think Justin treasured the uplifting words his big sister read.

My wonderful mother in law, darling sister in law, both of whom I treasure, me, my sweet niece, Hannah and my mom...beautiful and real. As families go we are not a perfect one, but acknowledging that frees us up to be authentic and beautiful in our walk with our creator.

Beautiful touches....simple, but warm and enveloping are usually my goal. I have to admit though, since Christmas is my favorite time of year, I might tend to go overboard. (If my husband was reading this now, he'd be rolling his eyes saying," You think?") I think a tiny Christmas tree (saved from year to year, so very economical) in every room is just so pretty! All those sparkly lights (love!!!) are so festive.

I have these gorgeous magnolia wreaths and garlands that go up every year at Christmas time, here above my range. When we lived in Spain, where my daughter was born we got the cute vinagre poster. Being quite sentimental I love when little touches from important places or events are ever-present.

This picture describes Christmas in our home perfectly! Celebrating the birth of Christ...Light!!!

The men of the family who richly blessed Justin by their words of encouragement. I will share some of my heartfelt words for my son, and actually for young boys across our nation as well. As my husband begins Iron27, the "MALE" counterpart to Inspired31.org, I am thrilled for my son to get to experience some of the similar mentoring my daughter has through Inspired! Surrounding our kids with great examples, is such an "inspired" part of God's plan.

From Justin's Blessing..."My greatest hope for you is that you pray daily to discover what it is that HE wants you to do with the gifts HE gave you. Did you know that I pray for you every morning and when I go to bed at night that you would reach your fullest potential: not according to the World’s very average standards, but according to scripture. I believe deep in my heart that the Lord has strengthened your spiritual muscles because HE is preparing you for great things. You are seeking to please an audience of one, God! May you never let what another person thinks of you change the magnitude of the plan has for you!"

May you have a beautiful day...contemplating the truly beautiful.

With much love, Roxanne

A Merry Christmas Table

2011-12-16T10:12:00.000-08:00

A Merry Christmas Table!

To those who are new to the blog, Welcome! I am so glad you are here, hopefully to be inspired! Today I am sharing my moms inspiring table, as I prepare for my sons birthday. I am determined to learn how to work my new blog layout! I hope you are liking the bigger photo's! Yesterday's were a bit too big, so I am tweaking it today! Clearly you can see the gift my mom has, my inspiration!

Colossians 3:12-14 Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.

I hope you are blessed today by love!

Speaking of being blessed...We are doing the "Blessing" for my son tonight as he turns 15. We (My husband and I, and whole family actually) are very deliberate about speaking blessing over our children. I think because my love language is words of encouragement, I decided as a very young mom that I always wanted to be very vocal in my encouragement for my children. (I think every mom does, right!?) So we have about 3 specific "Blessings" we do for our children.

For my daughter we called the first one "Teenage Blessing Tea" and did a lovely tea for her with all of the women in her life who I (and Hannah) thought were a gift and could teach her something. Then, I also did one for her recently on her 18th birthday with just family called "Family Blessing" as she was applying, waiting etc.. for college and experiencing all the corresponding "stuff". I will share with you lots more of that because a "Blessing Tea", or for boys different title, can be a treasured act of hospitality for anyone at any age....

2011-12-15T21:03:00.000-08:00

I had the great privilege to be on the Janet Parshall show on Tuesday, and a few other amazing ones as well, live! She was amazing. She really "gets" the whole idea of Inspired Design: The book, Inspired31.org: The ministry, funds going to an orphanage the whole kit and kaboodle! What an honor it was for me, and what a pleasure it is to have you joining me now, perhaps from one of those radio shows! You can listen to the recording here, click! (hit listen to hour 2)

Merry Christmas! I have a new blog format, that I am trying out right now! :) This is going to be a very short post, to see if it worked correctly! Mostly I changed the format to have the pictures that go to you be much bigger, as that is what we all just love. Of course, being the least technological person that may walk the planet, I didn't realize it would be so hard to learn how to do a post! So, this one is going to be short!

I have some wonderful Christmas images I will share with you tomorrow, while the kids are at school, taking their last final! I have been working hard getting the house ready, as well, for Justin's 15th family birthday, and blessing! (I'll explain more about the teenage blessing, as well!)

There are two ways to live your life.
One is as though nothing is a miracle.
The other is as though everything is a miracle.
--Albert Einstein

I am not alone at all, I thought. I was never alone at all. And that, of course, is the message of Christmas. We are never alone. Not when the night is darkest, the wind coldest, the world seemingly most indifferent. For this is still the time God chooses.
--Taylor Caldwell

Little Christmas things...big impact

2011-12-12T15:54:00.000-08:00

The most simple trick (and I'm sure you use it to) is the little votive candle in a simple glass holder. I think there is nothing as pretty as glass votives-everywhere!

If there were designing rules, it would include: Everything looks gorgeous in glass or silver! These little gold balls are fabulous, and I used them on the top of the table below as well. I say the more sparkle the better. (Although that isn't always true :)

Cookies on a silver plate. One of the girls in our Mother-daughter group (Now National :), Inspired31.org made these darling cookies. On a silver plate, made by my Grandpa Allan, they look gorgeous. I was at a cookie exchange, given a 99c plastic tray that the cookies looked amazing on. It doesn't have to be real.

My favorite cross tied with a french ribbon to the top of one of my new candlesticks! (Pottery Barn) The great thing about this candlestick is upside down it is a candy dish!

Here is the table at my house before I shipped it off. I had played around with the combinations for days before I sent it off. (Remember to click on photo so you can see details)

Below is on the 700 Club Show table set right after our segment aired!

Very simple: glass hurricane ($6) filled with tiny marshmallows! I looove the white color on the natural tabletop or clustered with 2 other (always odd numbers) glass containers filled with something white.

I had to work to find these (as I am in southern California) but I know in some parts of the country these are abundant. I love them in either a glass bowl or silver dish!

Everyone's favorite Christmas candy....the candy cane! I love them and they abound at Christmas-time at our home. On the tree, in dishes, tied with a french ribbon and stuck in the kids backpacks for school, tied to the garlands-everywhere is perfect for the candy cane! The all white ones are gorgeous in a tall hurricane. Even at age 15 & 18 they love the treats.

I just went to a Christmas Cookie Exchange at my friend Mary's and I loved this, so I'm sharing.

Remember if it's simple, you will do it......

Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other, Let us show the truth by our actions. 1 John 3:18

Christmas Tabletop on 700 Club, click link to watch

2011-12-07T16:26:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, Hannah and I had the honor and joy to be the guests on the 700 Club tv show! We flew to Virginia on Monday and were greeted by a CBN security guard who picked us up from the airport in uniform and welcomed us to Virginia, the "Campus" and the show! We were immediately called by Ivorie, whose southern hospitality made us feel at home from the second we arrived. As I said on the show it is about the little things and honoring others. Ivorie and every single person we met at CBN was delightful, kind and truly hospitable. I was incredibly inspired! If you are new to the blog, from the show...WELCOME, we are glad you joined us!

Below is the Screen that appeared a few days before we did the show...

We arrived at the hotel on the grounds, which was Christmas time lit up sparkly lights in the Federalist style and so charming. Hannah and I walked around the grounds and lake and soaked in all the beauty of the south. We had a lovely dinner and I went to bed early to be well rested. (Hannah stayed up for hours studying for finals next week)

On of the highlights for me was meeting Pat Robertson and hearing more about the history of the show. Not only did he graduate Yale in law, before going on to seminary later in life, his father was a Yale graduate and statesman and his son Gordon, also a Yale grad! He could not have been more charming, welcoming and kind. He invited us back, with his southern hospitality and I was charmed!

Hannah sitting in the green room, which of course was not green, signing books! It was such a special time with my beautiful daughter (Senior, 18 years old, sniffle) to see her as such a lovely young lady who handles herself with such grace and strength. (strength-she leads us around the airport, just like her dad!)

Like I said the history and legacy of the Robertson family was inspiring! Did you know the 700 (from 700 Club) represented how many people he hoped/prayed would donate $10 to get the ministry off the ground! This is Pat with his beautiful wife, Deedee. They recently celebrated 50 years of CBN and the photographs and history were amazing! He is a visionary and has run a successful business/ministry for that whole 50 years! Inspiring!

Part of the CBN interiors, with Ivorie our amazing host/talent coordinator who stayed with us throughout and guided us through the rehersals, make-up and hair (Amazing ladies!!!), set design (to set up what we sent from California to be on the tabletop), toured the building, adjoining campus and finally took us to lunch with Kristi, who was our interviewer for the segment! (If you click on the pics, they get larger to see better detail)

Kristi, Myself and Hannah on set right after our segment aired! Live! To a million households, gulp! I actually wasn't nervous. Of course the credit goes to the Lord who truly calmed us both, and to dear friends and Inspired31.org steering and pastors who prayed for us! It worked. (I suffered earlier in life with anxiety, so it is no small praise to be thankful to be on a live national program and not have anxiety!!)

The Christmas tabletop! Half traditional red and green, and my favorite the natural/white Christmas end of the table. I will share in detail tomorrow the different parts of the table and how to do it, where to get some of the items. Of course I paid extra to get the boxes there by Friday, which they did not. As we were in the LAX airport monday morning I heard they had not arrived, at which point I sent an email to the Inspired31.org (Mother-daughter Ministry that began after the book was launched) Steering team who began praying. Prayer worked, God was so good and I thankfully found just as I was turning my phone off for take off that the box had indeed arrived!

WATCH THE SEGMENT HERE

Making things beautiful

2011-12-05T03:43:00.000-08:00

As I write this at 3am, before Hannah and I go on a special little trip, I am so filled with God's words...HE makes things beautiful in His time...What a comforting thought. So inspiring that it is Gods timing that we will wait on. In this world where we are flooded with things of THIS world, constant materialism through media and other means, His timing is such a beautiful thought.

I think the most beautiful thought in my life to date, is that he will make things beautiful in His time.

He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end. Ecclesiastes 3:11

Beautiful things is what you will find on Inspired Design's blog....but my mom always told me beauty is only skin deep...so beautiful things on our blog...will be beautiful things, but not in the "exterior" ways, but beautiful in God's eyes through His words...

Essentially making things beautiful through whatever means you have always putting others first...is what you will find in Inspired Design.

Romans 12:13 tell us to "Practice Hospitality", sharing with Gods people who are in need. I think always, you will find others who are in need of a little love and tender loving kindness.

Here are some simple ideas for placesettings for when you do have people over. Remember it's about honoring them, and showing love, not about the decor only! If you catch yourself thinking only about how it will "look", correct your thinking. It is about how you will make people feel that is real hospitality.

Simple red curly straws with a bow is so festive and shows some thought. Celophane is the best friend of those who like to do beautiful things and make them sparkle.

For each table top setting I try to do some "Inspired" and some "Design"...Here is some Inspired...

~Place cards

I love to use the ceramic place cards that can be written on with a wipe-off marker. You can quickly write people’s names, a favorite quote or sentiment. Friends love that you thought about them before the dinner and even something as simple as writing their names on the place cards really makes them feel remembered.

~Welcome Sign

It is so welcoming, to have a sign somewhere near the front door to greet your family and friends. From a very personal “Welcome Smith Family” or a seasonal “Merry Christmas” to “We are so glad you are here” on a casual chalkboard or an elegant mirror or glass framed, and write with a wipe-off marker, that welcome sets the tone for the rest of the event. I used an antique french cupboard door and painted it with chalkboard paint on the raised panel part.

~Quote or Scripture

The most inspirational part of the Holiday table is the beautiful quotes and scriptures. It depends on the occasion, but a quote that is either inspiring or focused on gratitude is the favorite. There is nothing like feasting your eyes, and then your thoughts, on what we can be thankful for, especially as an example for our children. Scattering them around the home (powder room, end tables, above door jam’s) is a great way to elevate your family and friends thoughts.

Inspiring Tabletop with words

2011-12-02T12:49:00.000-08:00

A little different than the regular blog entries...I have had several requests to post these (part 1 of 2) tips for the season!

In today’s rough economic climate, keep in mind that although I hope to inspire you to set a beautiful Holiday table the real beauty comes from the thought and love you show your friends and family. Beautiful tables comprise equal parts from the “Inspired” & the “Design” categories. Today, I'll just feature the "Inspired"....tomorrow the "Design".

Inspired

~Place cards

~Welcome Sign

~Quote or Scripture

Listen in Live on Friday at Noon PST

2011-12-01T20:16:00.000-08:00

I will post some tips tomorrow on decorating a Christmas Tree that is meaningful and special, but for now....I thought some of you might be interested on listening in to a live radio program from New York City that I am scheduled to be on at Noon, PST!

According to the scheduled posted on their website Tim Tebow will be the interview directly after mine!

My son thinks that is cool, if and only IF I can get a signed football!

Just kidding! (I think)

Here is the channel, you can listen live! Say some prayers for me!

Show: Lifeline with Kurt Goff

wdcxfm.com

Quotes for the Table, Family and Friends

2011-11-23T16:58:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

I hope your day is filled with family and friends, joy and thankfulness for your blessings great and small. I hope for those of you have suffered a loss this year, especially that of a dear loved one, that you will feel God's love and comfort through the prayers of those that love you. I hope if you are struggling with something that is blocking your thankfulness you will pray for release, and our merciful God that loves you will give you the peace that surpasses all understanding. That peace is what I am most thankful for Today!

God Bless YOU !

I am thankful I live in the best place on earth!

I am thankful for my family (mom created these vignettes)and dear friends!

Galatians 6:9 Do not get tired of doing what is good. Don't get discouraged and give up, for we will reap a harvest of blessing at the appropriate time.
Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God's kindness: kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile. ~Mother Teresa
W. J. Cameron

Thanksgiving, after all, is a word of action.

Oscar Wilde

The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.

Lincoln’s Thanksgiving Proclamation of 1863"It has seemed to me fit and proper that (God's gifts) should be solemnly, reverently, and gratefully acknowledged with one heart and one voice by the whole American people. I do, therefore, invite my fellow citizens...to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next as a day of thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens."

Three Fast and Easy Tips for Thanksgiving

2011-11-22T10:31:00.000-08:00

Martha Stewart I am not. Stating the obvious is a strong suit of mine. Although I would love to have a staff to help me get the message of Hospitality out, I would prefer to be more like Mary, not Martha! Here are some tips that you requested, from "Table Settings Inspirations"...

Here is a Thanksgiving Table from my grandparents home. (Clicking on pics make them big for detail) Everything they did was elegant because they did it with love. My grandpa Allan (Alder, Silversmith) was a brilliant designer (Smithsonian, LACMA, Huntington Library & Gardens etc...bla bla) but ALWAYS made people the top priority when they came to his home. Despite having the likes of Cary Grant, Eleanor Roosevelt, Paul Newman and more to his home and studio he was as charming to the men who "hammered" out his designs, as to his "helpers" and really...total strangers (whom he'd often ask in for dinner)

Generations old, these tips are as beautiful/timeless as then...

One: Everything is more beautiful on silver or glass .

Two: Turn overhead lights off and dine by candlelight.

Three: Snip a little greenery or flower. One or two is plenty.

Only two tiny flowers on this table. Elegant and Beautiful. This was in Texas. Everybody laughed when I said I take pictures on trips of the what creative people come up with, especially those beautiful ways to honor and celebrate others. Some people like mountains, I like tables settings and hospitality ideas. (I do love the beaches though!) Ask my family! :)

Glass containers with candy colored for the season! A favorite....

As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them. ~John Fitzgerald Kennedy

Let us remember that, as much has been given us, much will be expected from us, and that true homage comes from the heart as well as from the lips, and shows itself in deeds. ~Theodore Roosevelt

2 Corinthians 4:15 All of this is for your benefit. And as God’s grace reaches more and more people, there will be great thanksgiving, and God will receive more and more glory.

Tomorrow I will do great Thanksgiving Quotes you can use on your table!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Casual Thanksgiving Lunch

2011-11-17T18:56:00.000-08:00

No kind action ever stops with itself. One kind action leads to another. Good example is followed. A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions, and the roots spring up and make new trees. The greatest work that kindness does to others is that it makes them kind themselves. --Amelia Earhart

Setting a beautiful table, inviting a friend for lunch, a warm hug to someone who is struggling...all of these can be life changing.

Although I love to set a fun or beautiful or quirky table, it's not about the design...it's about the people.

Is somebody on your heart right now?

Ask them over for lunch or dinner...

If you don't have time to cook, pizza is great. It's the invitation that matters.

Wherever there is a human being, there is an opportunity for a kindness. ~Seneca

The ideals which have lighted my way time after time have given me courage to face life cheerfully, have been kindness, beauty and truth. ~Albert Einstein

Simple Tips: Cut up small citrus fruits; lemons, limes, and tangerines! Add mint and it's so pretty and looks so autumny! I love the store Fresh and Easy....I made these tea sandwiches with the "Curry Chicken" filling, already made up! Sprinkled paprika...took 5 minutes. Added herbs from the garden, 2 seconds...

Guilty of doing this combo just for the colors! I love green and yellow together. All of the flowers were from Fresh and Easy, the $4.50 bunch and they look gorgeous in plain glass...

Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.

~Leo Buscaglia

Hospitality and Homemaking

2011-11-15T21:05:00.000-08:00

Inspired31.org was amazingly inspiring with featured speaker Lorianne Merritt! Post is simply email feedback, a tea inspired by the table setting ideas (by Roxanne) and lastly the simple "recipe" I love to do when we have guest over unexpectedly for dessert!

Cassie and Grace giving the discussion questions, inspiring us with poise and stage presence.

Mothers, daughters and grandmothers, One special gal who drives over 2 hours to our events, from San Juan Capistrano, who hopes to begin a Chapter of Inspired31.org

" I was inspired by all of your beautiful hearts coming together in unity to bless moms and daughters both in deed and in the word! I so enjoyed the pictures of the lovely table presentations. And Lorrianne's love for God's word and applying it to all of our life story was truly inspiring! Well done!!!!" Teri Sangster

"Thanks for all the fun and food on Sunday. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the slideshow of tablescapes! Moments like those make me want to open up my home to others and bless them with a nice meal and fellowship. I'm looking forward to using some of these ideas along with my WHITE plates to be hospitable. Great job ladies." Melissa Smith

" I learned alot from the speakers (white plates, salad in glass bowls, bare tables with no table cloths, holiday seasonal color frames, different ways to position napkins in napkin holders, themed tables.... ). What was really helpful was that I don't need to offer something spectacular necessarily to have someone over to my home. Instead, to focus on what I can do and that there are plenty of options to make someone feel loved <3" Nicole Hiltebran

"I loved the event. Thank you for Inspiring me. Give me the scoop on the dough and chocolate chip dessert that you said is easy and impressive - Please:) Also, maybe Lorraine could share all the scripture from her notes. We could load it up on the web site"....Kim Barkis (recipe below, scripture to follow)

"My friend diane asked if u could put the food jar names on ur blog, for her table". (The idea of the jars that once empty are a fabulous shape and texture for a vase (the cocktail sauce my friend Sharyl buys). Once a few are collected they are gorgeous as centerpieces....) I will post those jar's soon! (I have to go to the market tomorrow to get them so I can show "before and after')

This table was set by Joy (our scone lady) the next day for a few of us for tea! She was so sweet to incorporate a few things, she says she was inspired by at the slide show! (flowers in individual vases, votive candles, a table bare without a tablecloth and place cards/napkin rings) Great job Joy! All were blessed-even those who couldn't join in :)

Here is the chocolate/pastry dessert, prepared in the airstream (not gulfstream!) by Hannah!

Gorgeous, yummy and so easy! Take pastry dough and place some chocolate chips in it!

Pull up the four corners like you are making a little "bag" of chocolate chips, and pinch in at where the imaginary bow might be tied if it actually were a bag. Bake according to the package of pastry dough...about 15 min.... Sprinkle with powdered sugar OR you can prepare the plate with a puddle of unwhipped whipped cream and swirl some hershey's syrup around then place the pastry in the middle with a few drizzles of hershey's syrup! If served plain sprinkle sugar before baking.

With the state of our world today, is it frivolous to talk about designing & decorating our homes? Unequivocably, No! Our world today is filled with great uncertainty, poverty, sadness & sickness, but in encouraging one another to do good, conversations begin and so many of these begin in the home. Do not underestimate the power of your home, and the ability to change lives. Do not underestimate the power of one tiny seemingly insignificant act of kindness. You never know how a life could be changed by one small thoughtful gesture.Just as a smile is a sign of graciousness to another human being, a cup of hot tea in a cozy nook listening to a friend can be life-altering.~ From Inspired Design, the hospitality book.

Christmas Color, Spanish birth Celebration

2011-11-10T20:28:00.000-08:00

Welcome to you referred by the lovely Blog: A Wise Woman Builds Her Home! I'm so glad you are here... My blog is devoted to all things Inspired: Home, Hospitality, Family and Friends. What better way to show God's love than to honor, love and celebrate others through home?

One more blog until the big Inspired31.org slideshow... So, although not exactly Christmas colors, it would be if the black was green! I love these pics of my daughters 18th birthday party a week ago! (EEEK) She wanted nothing big, fancy or planned as she is somewhat low-key like her Dad! So I tried hard to do a little Spanish theme, as she was born in Spain, while my husband served in the Military, Navy to be precise.

I tried to keep it simple with things I had, although I did buy those plastic silverware, can you believe it? (Tuesday Morning) Clean up was much easier, although lots of dishes to wash!

You know I love to reuse interesting items, this one my husband and I bought in Germany 18 years ago, when the military sent us there to do a Dental training. (US? Ok Scott did the training, I happily tagged along)

I try to always include a favorite quote or scripture, and this one is so fitting for an 18th birthday, especially while filling out the college app's!

A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. Proverbs 17:17 (NIV)

Her dear friend, Cassie, since she was about 6 years old. They really "sharpen" each other as Iron Sharpens Iron, in Proverbs. I am so thankful for Hannah's dear friend Cassie. A sweet spirited, lovely, encouraging friend to my precious daughter. Thank you, Lord.

Hannah's dress that she wore when she was less than a year out, then let out when she was two to wear again. It was for the Semana Santa celebrations in Southern Spain, where we were stationed. This Sevillana dress is such a sweet reminder of her early childhood. It was so sentimental on her birthday. I hung it on my jewelry stand and pinned it. Great idea for baby clothes for baby showers!

Love these curly straws I got at the party store!

Inexpensive napkins at Tuesday Morning...almost as cheap as buying paper products, but not quite. I hate to waste money on disposable things! I am part Scottish...

Gumballs on the napkins. Just cute and colorful.

"For attractive lips, speak words of kindness. For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people. For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry. For beautiful hair, let a child run his fingers through it once a day. For poise, walk with the knowledge that you’ll never walk alone. People, more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed, and redeemed; never throw out anybody. Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you will find one at the end of each of your arms. As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself and the other for helping others."

— Sam Levenson

Inspiring Ideas for the Holidays, It is the thought....

2011-11-08T17:27:00.000-08:00

Here are a few from the slide slow we are showing this Sunday!

Tea and Scones

3-5:30

We'd love to have you! Register here!

No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted. Aesop

I always like to plant greenery that I can clip and use on the table for centerpieces etc.. Ivy is great to clip and simply lay on the table..not even necessarily in an arrangement! Think easy!

Danica scooped out these melon balls from a watermelon over the summer, and I couldn't get over how beautiful they were! Remember that scooping out all kinds of different foods is pretty easy, always gorgeous in a glass or crystal bowl. It's the color that is so effective.

My mom did this at the book launch in Newport Beach, with cold yogurt gaspacho! En masse many things look more elegant than just one would. She used these little plastic square glasses filled with the easiest gaspacho and a little cilantro and it was gorgeous. Think...en masse!

This is WalMart...Yes I love the big super WalMart's! This one was in San Diego. The presentation in placement was seriously gorgeous. I took my camera and my niece, Julia, and my daughter were staying at least one row away from me, as I was flipping out at how beautifully arranged the store was. It was opening and no people had swarmed yet: key!

Simple, totally cheap and darling: writing with chocolate syrup!

My dad's birthday party...my mom used a different color table cloth for each table, each bright and vibrant. During the slideshow I will show it all....very effective! Of course each of her centerpieces matched the tablecloths...

My girlfriend Amy had me over for lunch during the summer, and another friend and she spoils me rotten. I am so thankful for a friend like her. I so appreciate the care and thought she puts into her friends. I just love that girl!

My sister's table above, all paper products, no joke. Gorgeous!

Yes, kids can add to the festivities always... Put anything on a silver platter and it is gorgeous, although these cookies were pretty to start with. Danica did these too!

Of course the best thing about the Holidays is getting friends together! So I leave you with some dear friends, cutting into the Prime Rib I made for them. It was yummy!

I hope to see you on Sunday...

Don't forget if you want to see more detail in the pictures, double click onto them!

I tell you, the more I think, the more I feel that there is nothing more truly artistic than to love people.

Vincent Van Gogh

Tabletop Ideas for Thanksgiving and Christmas, sneak peak

2011-11-04T19:53:00.000-07:00

Here is a sneak peek at the slideshow for our next Inspired31.org Gathering,

"Homemaking, Hospitality and Tabletop" (Tea & Scones)

Sunday, November 13th from 3-5! (Doors open at 2:30) $7.50 per person

Our music will be a teenage harpist, that we are so excited about. If you come to one...this is it...

I'll be doing a slideshow with hundreds of tabletop setting ideas for the Holidays...

Lorianne Merritt will be highlighting ideas for hospitality and ideas to welcome people to your home and make them feel special!

I'll feature how to use simple color to highlight the season!

We'll highlight ways to use words to encourage people and make them laugh, like the sign I took a pic of in Wales, that I thought was so cute at the cash register!

We'll have ways to make simple treats pretty and delicious!

We'll feature lots and lots of pictures that highlight what other gals (Mary Shoji) do to make their gatherings so special!

We'll highlight tables from around the world, via pictures, and how beautiful both a simple

and a more elegant and formal table can be! We hope you will join us! If you are far away...the blog will feature tabletop and holiday decor from now through the holidays to INSPIRE you!

There is overwhelming evidence that the higher the level of self-esteem, the more likely one will be to treat others with respect, kindness, and generosity.--Nathaniel Branden

Sometimes its all about just doing it, not perfectly

2011-10-31T20:16:00.000-07:00

Making something that is beautiful for others takes much time and thought, or does it? My friend gave me a compliment saying, "I love how sometimes you just do it and don't care if it's perfect!" (Wait, was that a compliment?)

When were you the most touched by something beautiful?

I have always thought the actions of men the best interpreters of their thoughts. ~John Locke

So often we mistakenly think that a beautiful, plain and simple vase has great potential if it has an incredible arrangement of flowers arranged inside it. But if you invite someone over and carefully add loving touches, it matters not if it is greenery or red roses. The true potential is achieved, in part, when you DO IT...instead of just thinking about it

Small deeds done are better than great deeds planned. ~Peter Marshall

Here are my favorite pickle jars (from France) with those $5. flowers from fresh and easy! Below, another simple vase with flowers on sale. Collectively the day was just beautiful, but not because everything was perfect...

Well done is better than well said. ~Benjamin Franklin

If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done. Ecclesiastes 11:4

Don’t say things. What you are stands over you the while, and thunders so that I cannot hear what you say...

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Potential

2011-10-29T20:48:00.000-07:00

Noah Webster's 1828 Dictionary Definition of potential as "existing in possibility, not in act."

Today's post is potential...

Let's see if you can guess what Monday's post will be?

Also in 1828, development is "an unfolding; discovering of something secret...full exhibition."

Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us Ephesians 3:20

Hebrews 12:1...

let us lay aside every weight....let us run with patience the race that is set before us.

Ecclesiastes 5:3 For a dream comes with much business and painful effort...

“To avoid criticism say nothing, do nothing, be nothing.” — Aristotle

You see things; and you say, 'Why?' But I dream things that never were; and I say, 'Why not?'”

George Bernard Shaw

“Every one's got it in him, if he'll only make up his mind and stick at it. None of us is born with a stop-valve on his powers or with a set limit to his capacities, There's no limit possible to the expansion of each one of us.” -Charles M Schwab

“A life spent making mistakes is not only more honorable, but more useful than a life spent doing nothing.” - George Bernard Shaw

Three guess....as to the topic of the next post...if you guess and get it right...I will send you a fun fall present!!!

I will post on Monday!

Friends that Inspire

2011-10-21T08:05:00.000-07:00

While having an "inspiring" lunch with my dear, dear friend Lori (who I could say is suffering from her second round with Cancer/chemo/etc..--more on that) yesterday I made a confession: That when I was younger when I could tell someone didn't like me I'd try really hard to change their mind. We agreed that now we move on quickly only choosing to be with people who are "light" and "inspiring". We agreed that whether it be age (40) or wisdom, God has given us true blessing...

I met Lori in Paris, above, while we studied at the Sorbonne! I am dedicating this blog to her (and all who are reading who have any kind of illness or are caring for a loved one who is ill) because yesterday, 26 years after meeting, she so inspires me with her strength and love! I said above that she was "suffering" with cancer, but really she is not. Although, she does admit the week after the "chemo cleanse" (as she has reframed it so it sounds more like a spa treatment and to wash the cancer out) she throws up and feels really icky.

So, today I am celebrating her strength, light and love and our long friendship. I celebrate her "real" outlook on life, yet her determination to see the element to celebrate in everything. She lives her life according to Philippians 4:8, my favorite verse....Think on these things!!!

She goes in for her last "Chemo Cleanse" next week.... Yea.

Beautiful (She is the center) on the outside, she is 100X more beautiful inside. She looks as elegant with her pretty scarf and big comfy sweater yesterday, because her sweet spirit shows through lighting up the room, radiantly!

At her 40th birthday, above.

Side note: Lynch family...at our wedding. Tom is now on Inspired's Board, Cornelia is like a mentor to me...and the girls have kids of their own, who Hannah loves. We celebrate every labor day with them still. Little Christopher our "Ring Bear" now is in a successful band "Gardens&Villa" touring!!!

At the wedding, Lori right side, Lynch twins in front. Amazingly I still see and love these girls as much today as I did then! (one i can't find)

At a wedding shower in Laguna, celebrating love! (and friendship)

At my 30th birthday, with Lori pregnant :)

At the wedding shower that Lori gave me! My mom says about Lori, "She is the most beautiful person inside and out, I have never heard her say an unkind word about anybody!..."

So my dear blogger pals, will you pray for Lori next week that the "Cleanse" gets every last bit out, and that the next part of the journey is all fun.

Between Laura Sharpe's Helicopter story and Lori's journey with "C" I consider myself so privileged to call these women my friends!!!

The beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure she carries, or the way she combs her hair.

The beauty of a woman must be seen from her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart, the place where love resides.

…true beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul. It is the caring that she lovingly gives, the beauty of a woman with passing years—only grows." Sam Levenson

Helicopter Crash Survivor/News Reporter Best Inspired Yet

2011-10-18T09:40:00.000-07:00

Thinking this Inspired31.org was the best one yet...let me share with you some Inspired tidbits from the most amazing teens and women.

Samantha Masyr, a very wellspoken young teen, shared with us her initiative for starting a Make A Wish Chapter at her high school. (Finding and Following: Our mission!) What an inspiring girl! We have a new feature of "Inspired Teen", above. (She so graciously said that Inspired31.org really inspired her to follow her dreams! She has attended since the beginning) Love her!!!

Our beautiful tables. Hip with lavender and inspiring quotes. Tablecloths from Anthropologie.

Our book sales table, so beautifully wrapped for holiday and corporate gift giving.

First time mother-daughter pair! I met @ tennis courts while watching my son! They might even start a Chapter!

Three years ago, she was pulled from a burning helicopter by her oldest daughter, by her hair, Laura Sharpe was one of 3 survivors. Three lost their lives. One of my favorite speakers, Laura recently began to walk without cruches or a wheelchair. She broke over 43 bones in her body, in a coma for 7 weeks, hospital for 3 months, and never an ounce of bitterness but only love. Her first words after coming out of the coma "Divine Intervention". She gives new meaning to grace and love. Truly a "light worker"

Our own amazing Amy Johnson, Newscaster for Channel 9, shared her inspiring words for teens to hold on to their dreams and work hard. She was inspiringly gifted with her journey through the media, which can be a harsh place for a woman. She then used her skills and interviewed Laura. You could have heard a pin drop the entire time. The girls and moms were mesmerized by the very real discussion. It was a blessed day, and a favorite of my daughters and mine.

Our speaker and her daughter, and another mother-daughter pair of attendees, who it looks like throughly enjoyed themselves!

You could feel God's Grace and Love at this Inspired31.org!

"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us" (Eph. 3:20).

Texas: Simple Ideas for Design

2011-10-08T10:19:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we went to Texas. The purpose: A meeting with our Literary Agents. Hannah at 4am to be able to be back to Cali for school, as she doesn't like to miss any school!

Simple chocolate tied with Rust bow. Beauitful. Hershey's would do just fine.

At a charming market in Texas!

Simple & Gorgeous.

Simple grapefruit presentation at breakfast...they cut the extra half and arranged it in a floral pattern. Loved it.

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.

Romans

How beautifully leaves grow old. How full of light and color are their last days.

~John Burroughs

Everyone must take time to sit and watch the leaves turn. ~Elizabeth Lawrence

Tiny flowers in the center of the table...

A flower touches everyone's heart. Georgia O'Keefe

Warm and Cozy Fall Design: Thankful

2011-10-07T17:40:00.000-07:00

Welcome, I hear from you all that the more pictures I have the better.

These are taken at my home at the Inspired Steering Meeting, to plan our next event featuring my friend and news reporter Amy Johnson! The girls will learn all about the news business, working in the media and she has some wonderful things to share. I am so excited. So, welcome to the meeting....Let me share a few things with you!

1. Our girls have fun!

2. Never dull moment!

3. They are comfortable sharing their feelings with the moms...Whether it went well, or not! :)

THANK YOU was the theme! I tried to write it everywhere: chalkboards, placecard tiles, banners, frames etc...

THANK YOU because our events go amazingly well because of the teamwork of the moms and daughters! A million thank you's wouldn't cut it....

My girlfriend calls people who bring joy to others "light workers" so I gave all the Mother-Daughter pairs, candles to go home and light...to remember they are light workers!

My fabulous cupcakes (not!) They did taste delicious, though!

I bought this felt string of flowers in New Mexico and love it for running along the middle of the table, around the candles. The man who sold it to me in an Indian store said it was a scarf??? Doesn't look like a scarf to me....

My favorite seasonal decorations are always photographs in the colored frames for the season! I bring out the appropriate frames and they make me so happy! Although, I do have to say, Where did all that time go? Look at little Justin sitting on the hay bale! :) Sooo cute!

Always a way to work in what I am most thankful for...A creator who loves me and cares about all these little details of our lives.

Two favorites of mine that can be changed out every season/month: Hurricane Candle Holders, with terra cotta bases, and a rustic 3 tier tray! I love switching it out to the right season.

I found these gorgeous amber glasses at an estate sale. It turns out it was the man who planned my sisters wedding. Small world.

Quotes, sayings and especially scripture are my favorite accessory!

From Inspired Design:

Don’t for one minute think that your lack of or excess of resources has anything to do with your contribution to the beauty of this world. You never know how someone will be touched by the little things you do—and by the little ways you make your home more inviting. Possessions and pretensions have nothing to do with it! Your willingness and action do.

No room for HATE, or unkindness of any kind....Finding Kind

2011-09-27T19:12:00.000-07:00

Bullying has been in the news like crazy, with a particularly sad story on the TODAY show, this morning where Ann Curry asked the parents of a boy who committed suicide, if they thought the "church" was responsible for this in any way because of their "views" (phraseology may have been different) Let me be clear, there is no room for any kind of hating in a Christ-followers heart. Kindness is a fruit of the spirit and one we are all striving for. Our last event, for Inspired31.org, was featuring FINDING KIND, a documentary and movement, to help bring awareness to bullying and unkindness: pointing all to being KIND. The last sentence in their documentary: We can't all be beautiful, we can't all be smart: BUT we can all be KIND.

Here are some beautiful pics, from our event. I will post more in a day or two!

Our "Anthropology" style decor. I might say it is hip, however if I were to say that my daughter might say it is immediately not hip-due to that comment. Myself and Deana, Danica and Diore Blaisdale made those cool stands with verses! More decorations next month, after more man-power...or girl-power!

Beautiful voices above of Teresa and Megan Rittenhouse.

Our Producer Pair, Marta and Tabitha Brown

Our Amazing Chapter from Santa Barbara (our 2nd official one) with Peggy and Christie and their darling daughters. We are so excited to have this new comraderie with our "Sisters"! They are an amazing bunch with fun ideas.

Two of our most sweet and beautiful Seniors-although they all are.....MacKenzie and Cassie.

A lovely mother daughter pair, enjoying the tea, Macy and Kristy Ens. Macy has baked cupcakes for us for the entire first year! Perfect example of that"Finding and Following God's gifting" that is our mission.

Molly and Lauren (and a darling attendee) the founders of Finding Kind, two beautiful young 20's who were bullied mercilessly in middle school, and when in Pepperdine decided to do something about the epidemic of "unkind". Amazing documentary that left not a dry eye in the crowd. Meaningful, impactful and in the theatres now, there is not a female on the planet who wouldn't benefit from seeing this movie, made by these amazing young girls: amazing role models for our teens. (Stories about girls and mom bullies and it's devestating impact)

Molly and Lauren with some darling girls at the event.

Our Steering Committee! (Well, those who stayed til the very end) Double long event with a tea AND a movie! What troopers!

Ecclesiastes 3:11

He has made everything beautiful in its time.

Preparing The Way

2011-09-10T03:22:00.000-07:00

Preparing the way they should go, so when they are old they shall not depart from it...

Such an important task, preparing the way for our children (Can I say that since Hannah is almost 18?)...

This table was set entirely by Hannah, for her "Formal Dinner" as she calls it with her friends! (Yes, entirely their idea!!) I came out and saw this beautiful table and my heart was warm. It was beautifully done as a gesture for the friends she loves. (The beautiful crystal was for sparkling apple juice, of course)(You can double click on pics to make them bigger)

This is a bit longer today, but work with me :) What is the kindest thing you can remember someone doing for you? What is the meanest thing that has ever been done to you? (Tomorrow/Next Blog I will do 10 easy ideas to "be kind" to others that they will remember)

While preparing for our FINDING KIND documentary premiere at Inspired31.org on the 25th, it got me thinking about the 18 years of preparation I have given Hannah, and that you are giving your children (and grandchildren). It is the practical, spiritual, emotional and physical training. But perhaps it is the example we "are" with what we "do" that is what they will follow! (Scares me, too) Pondering that thought, is awesome for me, and humbling! (oh so humbling)

Do I always treat people the way Christ would? Really, if Jesus was here on earth, although He has rules and justice, etc...I imagine HIS kindness and love could almost be felt and seen, almost as if it were tangible. Do you know what I mean? The leper's, the prostitutes, the somewhat humanly-unlovable...that is who He loved! Quite an example.

So, upon deeply thinking (praying and preparing) for FINDING KIND, I have been studying the issues that prompted the darling 20-something founders Molly and Lauren to travel the country making this documentary movie: Middle School and Bullying. But that is so distracting a title because Bullying conjurs up kids hiding in the bushes, punches, black eyes etc.. But you know what? According to Focus on the Family's ( & documentary) it is most common in the form of "Verbal/Social Bullying", name calling, verbal abuse and intentional exclusion, according to monthly newsletter topic: "bullying".

So if we are training our children, as they should go...

We need to deliberately BE inclusive. Our kids "know" if there is someone we don't include. Shall we BE the difference for our kids?

In the amazing movie THE HELP, Hillie, was the "bully". You know what was amazing, though? My friend Joy pointed out: she manipulated those around her without words. Most of the time it was the pressure to follow her "mean" ways, that led to the unkind, horrifying treatment of all those around her. I figured out (with the help of my mother in law) that Miss. Celia was the blonde in high heels who took a pie to the door of the "ladies". She stood at the door with the kind gesture(pie), and kept knocking, hearing the whispering, and seeing the women hide.......My heart just ached for her. I have been that girl. My children have been that girl. Perhaps you have been that girl?

I (on behalf of Inspired31.org's Steering Team, and FINDING KIND) cordially invite you to join us on September 25 for Tea and the documentary .

If you life far away (That's no excuse!!) plan an outing with your friends, bring some girls. I am confidant it might just change your life. No matter what your age. Yes, that means you!

You can register on our site: Inspired31.org

Beautiful Ways to Display Handmade Art

2011-09-05T21:43:00.000-07:00

These are a few of my favorite things: sweet words from friends & family, handmade art AND using them in beautiful ways to decorate the home with meaning!

Firstly, this is my moms idea! (As you know I steal many good ideas from her!) She uses beautiful french ribbon with a gorgeous ornament for the season at the top, with cards dangling from the ribbon. You can affix them with simple paperclips or clothespins! At Christmas time her displays are gorgeous with red, green and plaid ribbons and a big Santa or such. This display was around Valentines Day last year. She usually affixes it b/n the shelves in her bookcases in her office, but it was easier to see if I hung it on a blank wall.

This is a gorgeous way to keep all of those encouraging thoughts in a place where you will often THINK ON THESE THINGS (Phil 4:8)

Of course, we would all agree handmade gifts are amongst the best, if not THE best gifts! My son made this me when he was 7(ish), although I did have to shlep him to the pottery place, and do some coaxing! I cherish it. I keep it out during times I want to encourage him or be reminded of his talent. It looks gorgeous on an iron stand, which makes it even look elegant!

My friend, Susan, made this beautiful watercolor for me after I got to tell her what my most favorite subject would be... Yes, I said a chair....and I looove it and all the time she took to make it for me. It will always be hanging in my house.

Perhaps one of my favorite gifts of all-time is one my dear friend Sharyl painted for me of my first home, which was in Puerto de Santa Maria, Andalusia-Spain, where my daughter was born. She and my wonderful hubbie colaborated and she painted this charming and very sentimental oil/acrylic of the home where my daughter was born! I am telling you this is one of my absolute treasures. I have it framed and on a beautiful easle that sits in my entry or in my dining room.

Lastly, another plate done by my kids and me for my dads birthday!

One thing will always secure heaven for us: the acts of charity and kindness with which we have filled our lives. We will never know how much good just a simple smile can do. We tell people how kind, forgiving, and understanding God is, but are we the living proof? Can they really see this kindness, this forgiveness, this understanding alive in us? Mother Teresa, No Greater Love, p. 45

Inspiring Design Ideas

2011-09-02T05:27:00.000-07:00

I just love this new design e-mag and thought I'd share it with you! (There are a few surprises to come, so keep your eyes on the next few issues!) It is a wonderful design mag, with all kinds of inspirational features about organization etc... The gal who is the editor is wonderfully kind and creative, and well....inspiring...read why she started it!

It comes into your ebox, free! Once you subscribe!

Click onto this gorgeous page of

Flowers & Design!

Funny, I just noticed its bi-line is "inspired" and ...on the cover...follow your passion!

This is my gift to you today!

Enjoy!

....rest of yesterday's post

2011-08-31T22:29:00.000-07:00

What Is Bullying, and How Bad Is This Problem?

To be specific, bullying involves ongoing aggressive behavior intended to cause harm or distress in a relationship where there is an imbalance of power, physical or otherwise. Bullying is literally "as old as sin" and can occur at any stage of life, but it is particularly common — and destructive — during childhood and adolescence.

Sadly but not surprisingly, the targets of bullying are often those who are poorly equipped to deal with it: the small, the weak, those who look or act a little different from the crowd, and those who have difficulty making and keeping friends. Bullying goes well beyond the usual horseplay, verbal and otherwise, of childhood and adolescence. It is essentially child abuse perpetrated by peers, and it may take a variety of forms:

Verbal. Insults, name-calling, racial or ethnic slurs. These are experienced equally by boys and girls, and represent the most common form of bullying.
Physical. Hitting, kicking, shoving or other direct bodily injury, as well as destruction
Social. Spreading gossip and rumors (often sexually related), exclusion or outright isolation. These are more common forms of bullying among girls.
Electronic. "Cyberbullying" on the Internet or through other electronic devices such as text messaging on cell phones.¹

2011-08-31T22:16:00.000-07:00

What Is Bullying, and How Bad Is This Problem? (FROM FOCUS ON THE FAMILY)

Verbal. Insults, name-calling, racial or ethnic slurs. These are experienced equally by boys and girls, and represent the most common form of bullying.
Physical. Hitting, kicking, shoving or other direct bodily injury, as well as destruction
Social. Spreading gossip and rumors (often sexually related), exclusion or outright isolation. These are more common forms of bullying among girls.
Electronic. "Cyberbullying" on the Internet or through other electronic devices such as text messaging on cell phones.¹

Finding Kind, The HELP et all

2011-08-31T16:50:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been the one who has been intentionally excluded? Worse yet, has your sweet son or daughter been the one time after time that has been excluded, leaving you to take a deep breath, give a big hug, and wipe the tears away trying to give a soothing explanation?

Words alone...can never describe the pain of watching a child suffer like that. Clearly a debilitating illness and many other tragedies are worse, however watching your child be left out stabs at a certain part of your heart that nothing else can. We love our children with an intensity that cannot be described....Imagine what our Creator feels like when HIS children are treated like that. I believe it breaks God's heart....

I am finding it interesting that The Movie: The Help is so popular now, #1 at the box office this past weekend. I found it heart-wrenching from beginning to end. Not only was the character "Millie" astoundingly cruel but to make matters worse the "crowd" followed her in her unkindness. Remember the darling blonde in the high heels coming to the door to bring her a pie and Millie had everyone "hide"? As if (can't find her name anywhere) the cute blonde was impervious and clueless and didn't know what was going on? I could hardly sit through that scene.

This leads right in to how to combat bullying, mean spiritedness.....Finding "KIND"

Finding Kind's beautiful (20year old) founders Molly and Lauren will share with us at our Casual Afternoon Tea how the bullying or "mean" girls changed their lives in middle school, then we will host the Movie Premiere!

Our first "EVENT" this year of Inspired31.org is September 25! We will be hosting the PREMIERE of the Finding Kind Documentary Movie at 5pm. Order Tickets, now!

See the Finding Kind Trailer

If you want to help change lives, bring a teenage girl. Better yet, bring several. It is worth the drive from Orange County, Santa Barbara or wherever!

Simple.

2011-08-14T14:12:00.000-07:00

In character, in manner, in style, in all things, the supreme excellence is simplicity.

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

So, yesterday was my birthday :)! I am 29! (jk) It was a wonderfully simple day. Guess what I wanted to do? Watch the sweet gardner trim my trees! Yes, I am a very exciting person!

My dear friend, Judy, took me for lunch and we went to the outlets. However we both love to do "things" to our house and garden, that we didn't want to stray far or do too long a lunch. So we just wandered around my yard and oohed and ahhed! (It had been a very long time since I have had the appropriate maintance in my yard, with lots of humongous trees)

My daughter and I laughed about what makes me happy/a dream day, that I decided to do my blog about it. I didn't want a fancy dinner in a restaurant (although I do love that here and there) I wanted to be home with my parents, kiddo's and sis and her family. Simply awesome.

Our life is frittered away by detail...simplify, simplify. Henry David Thoreau

Less is more. Robert Browning

I loved all of these inspiringly simple window boxes & potted plants...

I thought I'd finish with this simple arrangement of ferns. It looks so pretty to have just a little "fresh" in the middle of the table, especially in a glass vase with water. Of course, a few little votives makes it just perfect and charming! Simple pleasures really make us all the happiest! (can I say that?) Psalm 116 5&6: The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion. The Lord protects the simplehearted....

I hope you have a simply wonderful evening with those you love!

Window Boxes, Cultivating a Generous Attitude

2011-08-11T18:39:00.000-07:00

My most favorite part of traveling/exploring is looking at the gorgeous ways man (or woman actually) makes beautiful things with the means and talent God has given him/her. Window boxes provide such an empty palette, for which so many beautiful and enjoyable creations are made. No matter what country, state, city or town one always finds such unique creations. Here are some such creations! Guess what my project is when kiddos go back to school next week! Yep, freshening up my window boxes. (I'll post pics!)

The above were in London! Always remember high in the back, to low in the front, varied colors and textures. Below I love the varigated ivy garland on a simple and sweet apartment. I think this was in Wales, but honestly I can't remember.

I think black window boxes are the bomb. Everything looks gorgeous in something black! (The little black dress, one piece of black furniture in each room....) I love to have flowers that thrive in a vase as they are so handy for a vase of fresh flowers!

Both above and below, London, have either boxwood (a staple) and ivy which are the best fillers.

White is a necessity, as well, as it makes the rest of the vignette just "pop"! As below, ferns are ideal as they really fill in the blank spots and always look so beautiful!

As with window boxes, with people, St. Vincent de Paul so wisely said,"Make it a practice to judge persons and things in the most favorable light at all times and under all circumstances." My most important "practice" is being generous in the way I view people, striving for "graciousness", so as I am cultivating my beautiful boxes, I will be praying for the gift of seeing people, all people, as Christ does...with "Abundant Generousness" as author Debbie Macomber (One Simple Act) phrases it! Happy cultivating!

Kind Hospitality Outside the Home

2011-08-04T09:02:00.000-07:00

From Pittsburgh to Santa Fe...

Kind touches and attention to detail have the ability to make one feel so welcomed. I'm just highlighting (from our Inspired trips) the little touches that can make the difference. Monica Schmelter, Host of Bridges mentioned during our interview, that one of the most memorable dinners her friends ever had for her was one where they did some simple and easy things, but she still remembers today. It wasn't the high cost/elegant location that made it memorable but the time they took which made her realize, "Wow, the time and attention into making me feel special. It did just that and more," related Monica.

At the darling Tea House, after Bridges interview...A simple cream cheese sandwich which they patted in dill. The presentation was magnificent yet so simple.

Monica...Her simple welcoming hug and words, " We are so happy to have you here", asking us if we wanted some tea, to make ourselves comfortable, basically all so simple to say...but kindness that put us at ease and made us feel so at home. Words (free!) can make all the difference for hospitality outside the home, to make you feel "At home"

This little cactus flower was on our room service tray in Santa Fe! What a delightful tiny detail that was beautiful and so flavorful of the area! Thoughtful and unique! A snippet from a plant in a votive candle holder!

This was from last night, but so cute and poignant I had to include it. My 14 year old son eats about 10 meals a day now, as he is apparently in a growth spurt. We had some friends stop by late in the evening as they are having a mouse infestation problem...their little boy is just mesmerized by my son, who just loves little Wyatt. Well, Wyatt saw Justin's newly made Youtube videos (of trains and helicopters, that I had taken him at 5am!!-mommy points--- to film for 3 hours---coffee, yes) and said while sitting down to watch Justin eat his 8th meal @9pm, "Justin, I like your video's.....and (with his big wide beautiful eyes open) I also like waffles." Cute, a polite reminder to always offer your food to your guests. After laughing (hard) Justin said,"Wyatt I will share with you.." So....this is them sharing Justin's waffles.

Valeria, the makeup artist, who worked on Hannah before the show, (Picture actually of the makeup artist in Tampa...one of her many hats) was kind and warm and made us feel so great! It was the first official make up session for a show, so we were a tad trepidacious, although I could get used to that! (If only someone could do my hair everyday, like Nancy Pelosi-ugh-that is a whole other topic)

Toni Hembree, was our interviewer/host for His Place and She and her station were so incredibly hospitable. She is sooooo young and married for only 3 years, I say that counts as a newylwed. Her sweet grace put us at ease at once, and her ability on the set was professional, capable, and so graceful. (She is our March Speaker!!!) They had a "Green Room" where we waited to be called for the shows, that was filled with ice water, fruit, books by authors they had interviewed, coffee, tea etc... Robin Hieple, the producer of His Place, also came in to welcome us and ask us if we had questions! (overwhelming evidence of Christ's love abounded in this place) Her mother in law, Cathy Hembree, the host for Focus4, interviewed us. She is a woman after my own heart, came into the Green Room and welcomed us so heartily! She was energetic and passionate about hospitality and family, and embraced the "Inspired" mission of bringing back hospitality and celebrating our daughters, and all the corresponding relationships. She is also hysterical...you can tell when you watch the show! (They are all in the process of going up on our site) All of the places we visited encouraged me, again, what the collective WE are doing is evident and making a difference across our marvelous country!

Romans 12:13 PRACTICE HOSPITALITY

I love that it doesn't say PERFECT hospitality, just practice it!

The house you're building, on solid rock for an audience of ONE

2011-08-01T18:17:00.000-07:00

While pondering the prudence of devoting resources; days, money and energy for a Media Tour for "Inspired31.org & Design" interviews, my friend (Lorianne) mentioned that I consider the blessing of time, connection, and fun with Hannah (who is always for adventure)! Thus begun the praying*, pondering, planning and ultimately P*urchasing (tickets, hotels, etc..) for an audience of one.

Inspiringly talented people from New Mexico, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, Florida, Texas, moved and touched our spirits, in ways that are beyond words. That our country is still filled, cities to towns, with faith-filled, intelligent people whose stories are as interesting and varied as the shells upon the beach was not only heartening but deeply motivating. Yet, our audience is an audience of one.

Ted Gonzales, Hannah and her Marshmallow-Outfitted mom (who is clearly not above posting a lousy pic of herself!!) on set: GAP, Son Network, New Mexico. He was a well-spoken, knowledgeable man of God, with a profoundly interesting story. Arriving at 8am for Praise & Worship, Han and I sang and worshipped, became one in mission, for a LIVE hour show, broadcast LIVE!!! I know, I know I said that. It broadcast 3 times that day countrywide, but really our audience was an audience of one.

Monica M. Schmelter, Author of: Right Sizing Your Life: Losing 70 Lbs. , and host of "Bridges" on CTN, was our gracious and hospitable host!

Traveling through 10 cities, 10 airports, as I listened I was transformed. Pondering not just the power of the Holy Spirit to transform a life, but more (importantly) that HE* wants to!

As Hannah and I sat in the "Green Room", the prayer hotline rang incessantly. A sweet lady prayed with aching people, in need of God's love. If I ever forgot the fabric of our faith-filled country and this HOUSE IS BUILT UPON....I was happily encouraged-what we (the collective WE here) are doing MATTERS! Spending time together, building our "house", which could mean a variety of things: The fabric of "Inspired" Design, family relationship, strong faithful relationships across country to glorify our maker but mostly relishing the idea that I am ultimately living for an audience of ONE, pleasing ONE.*

Matthew 7:24

Everyone who hears these words of Mine*** and acts on them, may be compared to a wise man who built his house on the rock.

* The reason: My Audience is an audience of ONE.

God is providing: for HIS design..........

2011-07-11T11:09:00.000-07:00

Everything God requires of you, He has already provided for you. When God provided a ram as a substitute for Isaac (Gen. 22:13-14), He introduced Himself as "God Who Provides." What does He provide? He provides what He requires. He required a sacrifice and He provided a sacrifice. Through the Son's indwelling power, He has already made available everything necessary for living out your new life.

"His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness" (2 Peter 1:3)

This entry was actually copied from my email inbox from WOMEN IN CHRISTIAN MEDIA, because it was so comforting....

God has provided for us, everything that we need...

Be blessed, and rest.........

Bottom Line, It's Time....

2011-07-09T16:00:00.000-07:00

Have I mentioned yet that my daughter is a Senior, in High School?

Well, obviously you get the title of today's blog...it's all about time....together. This summer I have had the honor (pure joy) to do something wonderful, spend time with my daughter, which is my most precious commodity with her now: time. We have traveled so far to Pittsburg and Tampa to do 4 TV shows, for Inspired Design and Inspired31.org. We also have scheduled Santa Fe and Nashville, and Dallas.

Do you know how one gets to these places? Yes, Flying! I don't love to fly. That is actually a huge understatement. The verse below was such a testament to God's Grace. Hannah and I are making memories, and so much more....in spite of ourselves (Well, in spite of me, anyhow :)

We'll get you the links to the shows, later, but God is just so good! We have our official first "Chapter" in Indiana. Our second in Santa Barbara! Our third, most probably in Nashville.

I am off to watch my son surf. Gotta love California!

Bless you dear Inspired Friends!

2 Corinthians 12:9 And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.

Inclusive Homes, Inclusive People

2011-06-05T11:16:00.000-07:00

O.K. This is the first post I have not wanted to write, honestly.

But you know when God is prompting you to do something, and you drag your feet? You kind of argue with yourself for a while first, then you ask for a sign (like a fleece) and then you get one. You write that off as a coincidence, but on the third sign you realize: Gotta do it.

My third sign was actually a magazine article in my friend Diana's magazine "Westlake Malibu"

written by Dr. Ian Armstrong, my dear friend's husband. It caught my thoughts that bullying wasn't usually/always physical, but that it was more subtle. One thing I had never considered was that "Intentional Exclusion from Activities" was something that is considered bullying, the consequences are devestating, to the person excluded, see article. (click on above to link)

Since Inspired31.org is about teenage girls and Inspired Design is about home, I feel perhaps the reason I was suppossed to write this is because our children learn from us what is ok! If we are ok with hitting and punching, they will imitate. Obviously, most of us aren't ok with that kind of blatent harm/cruely. But, what about intentional exlusion? What about the other forms of indirect bullying? I really began some thinking about this. I'd never considered this a form of bullying.

As a Christ follower the scripture that keeps coming to mind is Mathew 25:45, which is: "And he will answer, 'I tell you the truth, when you refused to help the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were refusing to help me.'

Always being inclusive is such a biblical concept. Throughout the scriptures we see example after example of people being kind or generous to someone who was so difficult. I am examining my own life...am i always including? Is my home open to all? Will I invite everybody, even if there are some conflicts? Does the above scripture mean if I intentionally exclude some, it is like excluding Christ? Something to ponder! The ladies I have learned the most from throughout my life have always been the kind that are always including everybody, sort of the more the merrier types! You know the kind of place, where you are always welcome. That home is truly a representation of Christ's all-consuming love!

Let me know your thoughts (You can comment on the original blog page at the bottom)

So I decided to "open" this for discussion...I'd love to hear your thoughts....

Home: The Allan Adler's (aka Grandma and Grandpa home)

2011-06-03T22:18:00.000-07:00

This room, designed by famed architect Scollard Maas (of the firm William Pereira Architects) is not a great big room! The ceiling is reclaimed wood from a barn, which Scollard had installed on the ceiling, a very hip thing to do in the 50's! The lamps were made custom from architectural elements from Greece. The spectacular silver centerpiece was made by Allan Adler. Channing Peake, Allan's dear friend, did some of the artwork, although it cannot be seen in this pic. Black chairs were designed by Maas, as well, and now sit in my living room.

But what is important? The hundreds of days that we spent sitting on those sofa's, running around those chairs, nibbling on the nuts Grandma always had filling up the silver dishes, drinking 7up from Grandpa's special black and white glasses (the 3 left are on my shelf now) that HE filled with gin (ick)! The Thanksgivings', Christmas', Easters', High Tea's, Baby Showers, Graduations, Engagement Party's (Mine was there! Where else would it be?), Wedding Showers are what I feel when I look at these pictures. What I feel? Yes, feel!

In these pictures of Grandparent's home I "feel" all of these memories. This is what "home" is vs. the "house" you might see. Just like hearing an old song on the radio you almost feel like you have been imported to a different time.

It is easy to love the people far away. It is not always easy to love those close to us. It is easier to give a cup of rice to relieve hunger than to relieve the loneliness and pain of someone unloved in our own home. Bring love into your home for this is where our love for each other must start.

Mother Teresa

At the end of life we will not be judged by how many diplomas we have received, how much money we have made, how many great things we have done.

We will be judged by "I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat, I was naked and you clothed me. I was homeless, and you took me in."

Hungry not only for bread - but hungry for love. Naked not only for clothing - but naked of human dignity and respect. Homeless not only for want of a home of bricks - but homeless because of rejection.

Mother Teresa

Home and all that it represents...God's "Inspired Design"

Those Designer Genes: Nostalgic for Grandpa Allan

2011-06-01T20:57:00.000-07:00

I was reading through my emails, and one from my mom caught my attention: Just a copy for her to proof read. No big deal, but sometimes that bit of nostalgia, missing someone that you love just comes out of nowhere...I found myself missing my treasured Grandpa Allan! He was simply the best Grandpa ever, which I guess needs no more explanation. I read with such interest the "facts!" (There is a big exhibition at Los Angeles County Museum of Art in October, which will feature both Grandpa Allan Adler, and Great Grandpa Porter Blanchard, called: Design in the Modern Art at LACMA) The "facts" are just the beginning...

Norman Rockwell, painted the above featuring Grandpa Porters Silver Coffee Pot.

My grandparents home was just the most stylish home ever! Yet it was the hospitable touches that have etched it in my memory forever. (I'll do my next blog on just the house, designed by Scollard Maas, the architect) (You can see it huge, if you double click on the pictures!! )

Great-Grandpa Porter...hammering away! Not glamorous work, but in "Silver in the Golden State", he is quoted as saying (at the Arts and Crafts Society of Southern California Fiesta, upon relocating from Boston) ...."the Society believes in the infinite value of its handicrafts as true examples of careful, loving design and workmanship, well done and well worthwhile for their own value, and the influence for the better they have undoubtedly have on other industry."

I am so inspired by this creative intuition. In today's culture we, generally, have lost the idea "CRAFTSMANSHIP"(It takes time).

I'm getting a bit nostalgic (ok, my daughter is a "Senior" in just 3 days...my "nostalgia" is likely to last throughout the upcoming year-hang on I'm going to get really sappy) thinking of my dear Grandpa Allan, just above. He was inspiring in Silver, Modern Design, Arts and Crafts Movement in California, but he was truly inspiring in the way he treated others. He always used his words in an encouraging way "You can do anything My Rocky".........

So, Grandpa, you are the "inspired" design of the day...

Proverbs 25:11

A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.

Memorial Day Thankfulness....

2011-05-30T11:20:00.000-07:00

I have never been able to think of the day as one of mourning; I have never quite been able to feel that half-masted flags were appropriate on Decoration Day. I have rather felt that the flag should be at the peak, because those whose dying we commemorate rejoiced in seeing it where their valor placed it. We honor them in a joyous, thankful, triumphant commemoration of what they did. ~Benjamin Harrison

Although this blog is about "Inspired Design", (and all things about the home) today is about My gratitude (and yours as well, I am sure) to those who gave their lives so that we have the freedom to enjoy our homes, and the ability and gift to have our own home. After living over seas for many years while my husband was in the Navy, I know first hand what many families sacrifice for us to have this privilege, living in a safe & free country.

So thank you for the ability to allow my son to play tennis....

and more importantly to practice good character, and give the opponent a pat on the back.

For the privilege of the fun of playing a sport! (Yes, I said that!)

For the ability to use determination to do fun and hard things.

To get good at something....

For soft landings....

and for the freedom to have days filled with sunshine and smiles. My grandfather was in Pearl Harbor while it was bombed, as an enlisted man in the Navy. I was blessed to be able to hear HIM tell the stories, however many were not as blessed. To them and their families we are so blessed by your bravery.

May we never forget, and never forget to take care of our men and women in the armed services. To our readers who are in the military-although words are not enough-Thank You!

May God bless them and their families.

Although no sculptured marble should rise to their memory, nor engraved stone bear record of their deeds, yet will their remembrance be as lasting as the land they honored. ~Daniel Webster

Shower the people you love... with love...James Taylor

2011-05-24T09:09:00.000-07:00

My mom's dear friends all get together for "us" kids when there is something to celebrate...Weddings (in this case), Babies, Books, Birthday's...any old way to celebrate life and each other!

I love these ladies...

Real Joy: Thankfulness in friendship (1Thessalonians 1:2 & II Timothy 1:3)

I thought you'd love these pictures! So many Creative Ideas for Showers!

(You can double click on the pics to make larger don't forget, and to forward just hit forward-for mom's friends- like you would an email! To go to actual blog, hit the grey Inspired Design Blog/Words at top of page)

Ideas to note: *Curly kids straws are fabulous. They come in big packs of 12 for a dollar or two. They are fabulous alone or tied with a bow, with colored lemonade!

*We all always add to regular invitations a bow :)

or as they did above a yellow leaf for "Registry Info"

*My clever mom (ok, where I steal all my ideas from, truth be told)

cut slits in plain white tablemats, and the girls (mom's friends) ran grossgrain ribbon through them!

Simple White Gerbera Daisy's (Favorite! 5 made a big impact)

Ok...celophane is fabulous. How can a gift not look amazing tied with celophane and a big huge bow! Of course, look how beautiful mom and honoree are! (beautiful inside and out!)

Simple and Gorgeous!

Below, ribbons and cake? Yes, easy and gorgeous! I love....

Amazing Mrs. Kriz and Patty! Gorgeous cake and bow (removable, so I am sure will get used again!) Borrowing is a great thing! All those black and white checked items are borrowed from MOI! We are constantly packing and trading b/n my sis, my mom and I. Always celebrating someone or something! (Not big things...simply for the privilege of being alive!)

Jump to the sky, Hannah

2011-05-22T12:24:00.000-07:00

Watching the polevaulters and their coach......

Saying I am not a sports girl is well...an understatement? (My dad is probably muttering "prolific understatement" as he reads this) I think sports are so overrated today. All this talk about teaching character and lots of other "stuff"...I'm so over it. Now, don't get me wrong...I like to walk (sometimes even run), ski (if it is 60* and sunny), and watch my kids or friends kids play whatever....As for role models in the sports industry...well, you read the paper....

BUT....

Polevaulting-- I am all over it! Talk about teaching great character? This is it! The coaches cheer and coach not only their girls, but the girls from the other teams. Our coach (who I will get to in a minute) coaches other girls when their coaches are absent. The coach from Agoura is wonderful to our girls, and when "our" coach Ben, was gone (only once I think) He coached our girls like they were there own. The girls from oppossing team root the other girls on, cheering and hoping for PR's for each other. (Even privately they all hope each other does well, and are actually sad for each other when they don't) Our team, pictured below, is really an amazing group of girls. They root for each other, are sad when one doesn't do well, and thrilled when each other (Kim) does phenomenally well, or when any of them PR, they all run, cheer and, of course, hug!

Ok, are you starting to get the feeling that I love these girls? Well, I do. Last week in Carpenteria we had some close calls, and a hard jump off, which brought me to tears, and brought the girls to....PRAY! See photo below! It got a little nervewracking...I was praying...then I see the girls go huddle up, and pray....Right there on the field. Well, does anything more need to be said? (Jeremiah 29:13)

Ok, I saved the best for the last. Their coach...is amazing. He has a quiet and strong way about leading these girls. Leading by example, calm and diligent, teaching them the skills necessary (as 5 went to CIF finals, 1 Alternate), but teaching them teamwork, and things I can't even put to words. I am blessed (as our whole team/parents/grandparents are) by Him and His family for the lessons they taught the girls. I do not say lightly to our coach, his darling wife, and their polevaulter...Our lives are richer because of you! We love you all!

Picture Worth 1000 words......

2011-05-22T12:19:00.000-07:00

Please Forward to Your Friends: Shopping to Benefit Inspired31 and Romanian Heart of Hope

2011-04-30T15:23:00.000-07:00

Please Forward to Your Friends! ( I am so excited for the spring boutique, more pics tomorrow) You can click on the above "inspired design" to go to the actual blog...

(where you can double click on the pics and they get huge, so you can see detail!)

More Pics of Items (all proceeds to Inspired Design) This Wednesday!

Wednesday, May 4 11am-3pm

Roxanne and Hannah's Home * (Email us if you don't have address)

Roxannepackhamdesign@yahoo.com

Tea & Scones, Music and Sunshine In The Garden

Above are our (Thank you God!) articles out this month, Family Circle, Cottages and Bungalows, Bill and Gloria Gaither's Homecoming, Canadian Home, Southern "Bella" Magazine...

Come have a cup of tea in the garden, and goodies made by Danica Blaisdale and Allison Miner! (Our Inspired31.org Teens)

These fabulous terra cotta pots are available for purchase for your spring and summer plantings...Catalogue will be here for you to peruse..

Is there anything more beautiful than white dishes, on a white table? You can order any of the pieces above or below!

Romans 12:13 Practice Hospitality!

On Radio Today Across Country and Preview Pics of Boutique

2011-04-26T08:43:00.000-07:00

If you live far away, we can ship them, you can purchase on our website, let me know what you are interested in.....

These Pics are a small sampling our pieces for the day... Forward this to your friends, bring some friends, shop and and it ALL goes to ministry. Special orders, can be made from our catalogues as well. Slipcovered Sofa's, Vintage Serving Pieces, Candles, Sachets, Books and Teacup sets, Beautiful Linens, Vintage and New....

Antique Chairs (Picked up by Han & I in French Markets)

Beautiful French Antique Pickle Jars, We selected in Paris

Handselected by Dannah Gresh (Whose hubbie wanted Inspired to sell, as they believe in our vision so much) Thanks Dannah and Bob!

I get this pottery (luscious white and handmade) from Mexico (shipped) and it is my favorite of all. You can select pieces and take, or order a whole set. Ministry gets money, is there anything better? Shopping and Money goes to God's work? I can't think of anything better!

This beautiful French Antique is the sale item of the day. I am parting with it, because my beloved Inspired Design will benefit so much from the income that will generate. It is the pricey piece of the day. It is $3200. and can be delivered wherever you live.

On Radio Today on Salem's Christian Radio

Click Here to Listen

Here is some preview pics of items for

May 4 Boutique to raise money Inspired Design

11am-3pm

Roxanne & Hannah's Home*

Sunshine and Grace, on the fourth this is the place

2011-04-25T07:42:00.000-07:00

Sunshine and Grace

Easter in Southern California, yesterday was filled with sunshine...and grace. I was in Newport Beach at my parents and enjoyed a real celebration at their "Voyagers" church in Irvine, celebrating the resurrection of Christ, the cornerstone of our faith. Sunshine made the day a special celebration (with a new friend from Kentucky commenting that as I went out Saturday to take my mom to lunch and enjoy the sunshine, she commented they could barely go outside it was soo stormy)

On the 4th (Wednesday, May 4th) this is the Place...

for Scones & Tea, Music & Sunshine in My Garden

11am-4pm Roxanne's Home***, Please Reply

Shop some special goodies (Photographs tomorrow)

ALL proceeds to Inspired Design...

New & Old, and some special order items..books,

special teacups that Dannah Gresh sent us in honor of Inpsired31.org

***Hit reply and I will give you the address!

Salem Music Stations Mega Day Today and Tomorrow

Monday and Tuesday (April 25 & 26)

Inspired Design Book featured throughout the day, info. and drawings

Tune in to Hear....

Sam Levenson (Often quoted by Audrey Hepburn, but written by SL, and taken from his book!)

He who is without sin....Eastertime

2011-04-21T13:38:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter, Thank God for his risen son, and Forgiveness...

I just had a conversation about forgiveness...a long one with a fairly distraught woman, hours and hours.

It all comes down this...how can we NOT forgive, if we call ourselves Christians when God gave his only son to die on the cross for our sins?

Life can be so hard. Situations can be brutal. People can be mean. Sickness can be debilitating. Death is devestating, living without those we love here on earth.

How can we, so imperfect, not forgive? When we have been forgiven?

What if someone doesn't say they are sorry? What if they aren't sorry? What if they don't know their cruelty has affected your heart? ...the heart of your children? the heart of your husband or wife? What if they are continuously cruel, thoughtless, unkind?

What if they leave you out of everything?

What if they continue to be ugly....

What if they even call themself a Christian?

We are still told to forgive.

Forgive and Forget? No, that isn't biblical...according to our Pastor sometimes it is daily, sometimes hourly....but it is a verb, and an action, and our calling as Christian.

On this Easter I hope for you that your heart is full of forgiveness and peace! I hope if you need forgiveness you ask, those you may have hurt. I know you will receive it from Christ if you ask.

As you sit in church on Sunday, may God bless you beloved!

May the feeling of gratitude for a God that would sacrifice HIS son for you fill you with joy.

May you feel the joy of being forgiven and forgiving others.

Happy Easter

Simple Moments

2011-04-13T23:43:00.000-07:00

My "Baby Charlie"

Actually, he's my sister Michele & Eliot's, but they share him.

Since a picture says 1000 words...

The best things in life, aren't things...

Psalm 118:23!

Women in Christian Media:Inspiring Women

2011-04-02T14:29:00.000-07:00

As I Write Timeless Tips, I think Back to WICM in Nashville Conference

for inspiration.....

I was asked to write a story for Bella Magazine (with Hannah) on Timeless Tips for Hospitality and Home, and although it is mostly written, something is still missing...Since I need some inspiration.....

I thought I'd share with you my notes (in that form) from some amazing women of faith, to inspire me :), on my break before I finish the article and hit "send".

Topic of Conference was Esther: For Such a Time as This! (Esther 4:14)

Kay Arthur (The most dynamic, poignant, truthful speaker whose style is unapologetic, yet grace-filled) was amazing! Her main point was to have an un-divided life. You can only serve ONE master. No man has two-masters. You can tell whose master is yours by the way you treat people. You need to understand the times we live in. (ISam8) He WAITED 7 days.... The lines are drawn. Don't limit God. Be brave, and do not flinch. Be trained for spiritual battle, able to handle your "spear", which is the word of God. The word is our plumbline. Bring everything you say under His authority. You are a precious (We) daughter of the King. Precious One: Mighty women of valor, be His faithful girl. Be all HE tells you to be. Do not be a hypocrite.

Jennifer O'Neil (Actress, Producer & Outspoken on Excellence and God's Message in the Media) We should be like minded, in the world, but not of it. Struck me deeply: God always says "Come Here" (To teach us, perhaps through a trial) before He says,"Let's Go".....out and serve others, You can't go, before you have listened and learned...... Very poignant.

Vonette Bright (Wife of Campus Crusade for Christ Founder, Bill Bright) was my favorite speaker, in terms of being able to relate to her message: The Moral Character of our country is represented in our women. (Made me ponder so much of disgusting media)

America is great because she is good. If America ceases to be good, America will cease to be great. Alexis de Tocqueville (Her favorite Quote)

Our responsibility begins at the family table (yippee)

I (She) wanted to shake them (us) to preach the word and be united in heart & mind. We should train our children/teens up as they should go...

World needs AUTHENTICITY.. Jeremiah 1:5 (knew you before you were made, what YOU should do) (Inspired31: To find & follow) What does God say? Ephesians 4:1: Live a life WORTHY of YOUR calling! Don't be what others expect you to be, be authentically you, the world is in dyer need of authenticity. (Acts 4) Oh, Lord our Creator. I love this in terms of us and our families, and us in terms of Inspired31.org !!!

Forwarding The Blog Details:***

If you forward this, your friends can click on the grey "Inspired Design Blog" and go to the blog to sign up. Dannah's Tea Cup (Beautiful and sells for $42. on her website) will be waiting for you at the next event, as a thank you. Thanks sweet ladies who have already done it. You may want to let those you forward to know they have to sign up by typing their email in...and receiving and accepting an email!" Super Easy!

Encouraging Each Other: I Thes 4:13

2011-04-01T19:28:00.000-07:00

Encouraging/Inspiring Others: Forward Blog*

If you would be so kind to forward to lots of friends that you think would enjoy it...I will give you a beautiful teacup, that Dannah Gresh hand selected....to pamper, encourage and thank you! It is simple, just reply that you forwarded to your girlfriends, 5, 10 or 20 even :) email me and it will be waiting for you at our last event. If you live out of the area, I will send it to you with a note of encouragement and encouraging scripture from our steering women!

I love to share inspiring people, books, quotes etc.. with my friends and I love to be around inspiring people. My longtime friend, Lorianne, is very inspiring to us all as a homemaker and while at her home in Nashville, I was freshly inspired at how powerful time together can minister to the depths of one's soul, when the focus is on our soul/spirit. Sometimes we really need a little tlc! She pampered Hannah and I with special private tea time in her teal tea room, spoiled us with special baskets of goodies, inspiring/stretching conversation, and lovingly prepared food.

It turns out that after that Nashville Trip I returned home to several sick friends, death of a beloved friends/mother, and my father going into surgery/recovery... God knew we needed that care and nurtering: upon entering 4 weeks of stretching, mostly so we could be more equipped to be more available to others. (More on that later) Next entry I will share why were originally went to Nashville for the Women in Christian Media "For Such a Time as This", where I was inspired by Kay Arthur, Thelma Wells, Vonette Bright and others....

I Thessalonians 5:14 &16 &17 &28!!

Truly Inspired Hospitality

2011-03-03T09:57:00.000-08:00

Gracious Southern Hospitality: What a Soul-Blessing!

Romans 12:13: Practice Hospitality.....

I believe God's idea, as commanded (wow) in 1 Corinthians 13 and Romans 12 that loving is the most tangible way we can show how God loves us (although we are so imperfect)! Hospitality is the word that most accurately describes "what" it is to love others, especially in your home.

Don't for a minute underestimate the power of your home, nor its ability to change lives. Do not underestimate the power of one tiny, seemingly insignificant, act of kindness.

Don't for one minute think that your lack of or excess of resources has anything to do with your contribution to the beauty of this world. It's not what you have (or don't have) but how you use it.

My dear friend of 17 years Lorianne, now lives in Nashville, and is one of my most favorite "Practicers of Hospitality"! Notice I said practicer-not perfectionist. She is so grace-filled because she is focused on loving others, and not "being an entertainer". Hospitality and entertaining are two totally different animals. In her "Tea Room" she offered tea, literally any time of the day (or night) to us. It was a wonderful time to sit and catch up.

I am off to the hospital to sit with my dad, and have a cup of tea (although I use that loosely)...

The next blog is going to have a fun little "hospitality challenge" gift offer....

If you forward this blog and get some friends to sign up, to offer pretty pictures and some inspiration, I am going to offer some goodies. I have a little bit of an ulterior motive and will share during the next blog!

God bless----Roxanne

Inspired Design (Hospitality) in Nashville

2011-02-28T08:04:00.000-08:00

Inspired Hospitality & Design...

I am writing the first of many posts on Hannah and my trip to Nashville....

(short and sweet) but first will you please pray for my dad who is now in surgery at USC, I am off to go there for a few days, but HE asked me to put him on all my prayer lists, so here I am...please pray for my dad Bill! I am so thankful for your prayers!

Hannah and I stayed with our old friends in Nashville. Lorianne, above is my dear friend from play group 17 years ago (pics above) and her son Charlie, one of Hannah's first friends. Her home and her hospitality is truly inspiring. I took over 100 pictures of her home, and will take you on a little tour, over the next few blog entries.

She is truly an inspired "hospitality" expert! :) I will share with you her wonderful touches, but to sum it up: She opened her home to us, made us feel so welcomed and loved!

She, also, loves tea. She has an entire tea room, devoted to taking tea, and sharing how good God is in so many ways. She has scriptures written over doorwells in her home, and has lovingly created so many vignettes with great flair and love.

We were in Nashville for a Christian Women's Conference, and to meet with some people about our book Inspired Design.

Will share more later, but off to be with my dad. Thank you for the prayers!

Psalm 118:23