It’s not about spending a lot of money. It’s about finding joy and beauty in simplicity. Here’s are simple ideas for more beautiful living.
But first, let me tell you about two thoughtful gifts from Seattle, Washington that my friend and client, Juliet sent to me. Juliet knew I would love this simple hand-blown glass votive from Glassy Baby.
The second gift, which really speaks to my soul, is a book called Style and Simplicity, written by Ted Kennedy Watson. He identifies several simple elements that bring style to every day living. I found myself smiling throughout reading the book thinking “I do this, too!” It’s all there from A to Z (makes a nice gift, too).
Here some of the elements he mentions to add beauty to your life and how I implement them.
Art
Apples
Collections
I grouped together antique prints…but you might collect pitchers, silver spoons, boxes, etc.
Flea Market Finds
Flowers
Glassware
I picked up these colorful aqua ones at Home Goods…I like that they are stackable for storage.
Seashells
Table Settings
Vintage
What simple things make your life more beautiful? A perfect cappuccino? A lovely dish towel? Clean windows? Scented candle? So many good things…like relaxing with Style and Simplicity and a napping dog.
You may also like:
Fresh Traditional Living Room in Southern California
GREAT Inexpensive Flea Market Items To LOOK FOR NOW!
I love your philosophy and tips Mary Ann. A Sunday morning with coffee and leisurely time to read my favorite blogs, that is a simple pleasure that makes my life more beautiful! 🙂
I sooooo love your home Mary Anne, you could persuade me to run out shopping again like the beauty post (Dyson) but this would all be easy on the $$ and so simply lovely to look at.
you have STYLE in spades!
debra
You are so kind, Debra!! See you soon!
So many great ideas…..snoozing dog is my favorite though. zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Ha!!! Me too!
I KNOW JULIET!
She came knocking on my door one day with a BIRTHDAY CARD for ELLIE!!!!!
I just cleaned those knives that are in the BOOK!I have a bunch of them sitting here on my kitchen counter…..The ITALIAN asked yesterday how long they have been there!I said, “SIX MONTHS!”MEN notice NOTHING!
I ADORE MY COFFEE in the morning and NEW dish towels which I NEVER buy for myself!
So, you purchased the glasses at HOMEGOODS………how about THAT TABLECLOTH???
XX
Mary Ann,
I remember thinking I would enjoy that book when it was first released. Thank you for sealing the deal for me, I must read! I do think it’s some of life’s little things are what makes me happiest.
xo,
Karen
Wonderful tips for simplicity and elegance. Your home is lovely Mary Ann! I’m looking for a white throw similar to your cozy looking one, but I can’t seem to locate one. Any ideas are welcome.
I actually got that one at Target a couple years ago and I like it as it is washable. My other favorite is a light cashmere one from RH.
Thanks Mary Ann!
What lovely gifts and it looks like a very sensible book. So many things make my life beautiful, of course my family and children top the list. Around our home I love things we have picked up on our travels that bring back many memories, I love inherited pieces, antiques that are hundreds of years old and speak for themselves and the odd modern thing that I have chosen because I love it’s clean simple lines. I think the most important thing is surrounding ourselves with things that bring pleasure.
Mary Ann,
I absolutely Love this!
xo
annie
Sounds like a wonderful book with lots of style tips that we all can use. I’m ordering one today!
Love the pic of you and Chief curled up by the fire!
xo Gail
Perfect post. I have the same book and philosophy for my home. Simple uncomplicated peaceful living. I have to have fresh flowers in my home and lots of light, always have soft music playing in the background. Candles at night, fire in the fireplace on cooler days. Sometimes I feel like I am setting the stage all for myself. Loved this post. Your home is so lovely and right up my alley 💙
Beautiful photos throughout your home! I’m so glad you love this book as much as I do. Hope you’ll be able to visit Ted’s shop(s) one day. 😘
Thanks again, Juliet!!!
Beautiful photos throughout your home! I’m so glad you love this book as much as I do. Hope you’ll be able to visit Ted’s shop(s) one day. 😘