The Lisa Porter Collection

"I'll continue to be grateful for long walks, sunshine, and cheese. Cold weather, soft beds and stuffed toys. Beaches and car rides. Carrots and warm fires in the fireplace. And cheese. I will also do my very best to be more tolerant of the UPS man and squirrels."

Edward Terry

Pamela @ The House of Edward

Dexter Brookhart

is thankful

for his friend Foster

who is also a Jack Russell!

Thank you Sharee!

Riley Segerstrom, a Cocker Spaniel: "My plan for 2012 is to find more time for playing with my squeaky."

Spreckles Segerstrom, a German Short Hair Mix: "I am planning to take more naps in 2012."

Shiree Hanson Segerstrom @ Joy Of Nesting

Charlie's resolution: He is going to try very hard to wait patiently for leftovers after the meal and not lick the plates as I am loading the dishwasher.

Stacey Holston Bewkes @ Quintessence

Since I am a dachshund of few words [unless someone knocks at the door] I would love to share three of my favorite quotes by e.e. Cummings. [After all, being a dachshund, I'm quite an intellectual]:

“It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.”
“The world is mud-luscious and puddle-wonderful.”
“Unless you love someone, nothing else makes any sense.”
Wishing you a Happy New Year filled with treats, walks on the beach, the coziest blankets, kisses and love.
ox Billy

Barbara Mangini @ My Dog Eared Pages

My resolution -
As I've began my new life in Scotland, I hope to encourage my human mom to become involved with a charitable organization that the handsome Westie (Angus) next door spoke to me about. The charity is Mrs. Murray's Cat & Dog Home which was founded in 1889, by Mrs. Susan Murray; a place of refuge and shelter for lost and stray dogs and cats in Aberdeen City and Shire. The Home has since expanded to take in animals from their owners, who for a variety of reasons can no longer keep them, and find new homes for them.
I love the idea of helping those who need to be re-homed. My parents came very close to not being able to bring me to the U.K. when they moved from Houston. Finding the ideal home with the ideal loving guardian would be the greatest gift of all for pets who must be adopted out due to death, illness, or unfortunate circumstances of their pet parent(s). Thank goodness all worked out for me and I'm living the dream of romping in the long grasses of Aberdeenshire and the Highlands; sadly I know all stories don't end on such a high note.
I wish you all a splendid New Year. May your days be full, may each day feel anew, days that are long and days filled with song. May the road rise up to greet you. May you nay be hungry, nay you be cold. I wish this for you, young and auld.

Deborah Peterson Milne @ Dumbwittellher

Happy 2012 to Gracie! My New Year's resolutions is to spend more time outside chasing squirrels! What more does a Jack Russell need?

xx, Auggie

Kate Todd @ Party Resources

Dear Miss Gracie,
Your warm hospitality meant so much to me this past summer. I hope my pops has business in Kentucky again soon. I wish you lots of good walks and rides in the car with the wind blowing in your face and lots of good snacks this year! My mom says to come visit anytime. We miss you!
xoxo Miss Erma

Renae Moore @ Moore Designs

Gus and Tricia helped reunite a missing dog and her owner today!

Gus would like to let you know that his resolution is to earn his final leg in his Rally Obedience novice title. He promises to work on reminding me that my "vacation" from blogging is coming to an end.

Tricia Healy Mitchell

Lexi & Leeloo hope 2012 brings you:
* plenty of Milkbones in the cupboard
* a warm bed to snuggle in
* good buddies to talk with & loved ones to hold
* a warm lap to sit in
Happy New Year from The Grrr Girls and

Carollynn @ Design Gumbo

Buddy is part of my family in Arizona and I’m so proud to tell you that this month he is beginning his work with Hospice of the Valley West.
He will be visiting homes of families that are cared for by Hospice. He will be a great comfort to both the patient and the "in home care giver" allowing the care giver to have a break from their duties and bringing a little sunshine into the life of the family .
Bud is loved by everyone who has met him in Wickenburg including the gang at Safeway who enjoy his visits with Marcie to Starbucks each morning.
“Happy New Year to Gracie and all of her pals.....Love, Bud”

Thank you Marcie!

Penny is another lucky girl! We were both born right here in the Bluegrass of Kentucky into the loving hands of Liz Evans.

Penny would like to wish all her dog pals a year full of Bon fires with their human pets, full ponds, sticks, ducks to chase, long hot days of summer and dozens of rabbit trails for 2012!

Thank you Liz!

I spoke with Frasier and Bebe & they've decided on the following New Year's Resolutions:

1. Although Frasier still thinks that our chickens are delicious, he has decided to embrace them as part of the family. He will now lick them as a sign of his love rather than a sign of his hunger.

2. Bebe the little one has decided to start a walking regimen to get into better shape and lose a few ounces and inches around her sturdy middle. She will twirl in excitement every morning and enthusiastically go for a walk rather than a drag.

Brooke Giannetti @ Velvet and Linen

"My New Year's Resolution is to take more naps, eat more food and not get caught stealing my Mom's Tory Burch's"

Tucker Fraser 2 years old French Bulldog

Kymberley Fraser @ A Beautiful Mess

and @ 3 Fine Grains

Sam's new year resolution...hmmm. Let me ask him (smile). Well, he LOVES his treats.... But he wants to make noteworthy changes. He vows from here on out to select USA-made only (prompted because of the recent recall of those made outside this land) and to ensure they possess ingredients that are healthy for him. Like everyone else, he vows to lose a little weight and continue to exercise. Health is key.
Cheers!

Susan Brooks Fox @ Love Where You Live

Happy new year - With pugs & kisses xoxo Chloe, Weezie & Sophie

Anne Standish

At 17, he does sleep a lot! I think Henri would like to remind all his dog friends to really enjoy each moment, spend plenty of time cuddling, and be grateful~for you are truly loved. Henri is now even able to give me a few little kisses (bisous) on the cheek and nose. His original mother, quite firmly taught him NOT to kiss on the face. He knows how much I love him and that is ok...he won't get in trouble~ Henri is VERY sensitive. I love the fact he now kisses me. I cherish every moment with him. Love The Gracie Porter Collection!

Victoria is Henri's love and Adrien their son.Victoria is 6months Henri's senior, so, she is an 'older' woman. Even though she is blind, she gets around beautifully. And, now that she is on puppy Prozac, she no long chews the oriental rugs!!! She is a happy girl and loves her life at Chateau du Portail.

Adrien LOVES his mother and they are never separated. He is still a petit garcon at heart and loves the attention of new clients and friends. He would say everyone should come for a visit! Victoria would say not to be too proud to take a little pill if it helps to make you your old wonderful self again....She will be 18!!!

Liz Manners Keogh @ Château du Portail

Visit Henri @ Henri Hubert Le Carpentier-Manners

"Wishing all our friends a year full of love, good health, happiness...and, of course, a new bed!" Love Felix

Frederic Richard @ UNE-VIE-DE-CHATEAU

Ernie & Clifford were reunited with each other and are now enjoying a wonderful life together with owner Sarah Kaplan and her husband!

Our message is always to adopt not buy-
and consider adopting an older dog or a special needs dogs-the ones that really need a home, and most likely won't get it-
We love Pet Pardons – on facebook because you can literally save a dog from Death Row-there are so many amazing people who dedicate their lives to saving animals-getting the dogs out of kill shelters and transporting them all over the country to new owners.....
My husband and I are planning to start a small animal rescue this year-for senior dogs and special needs dogs-also, because of our amazing experience with Floyd, we want to also provide hospice/end of life care for dogs who are dying that are in shelters....

Sarah Kaplan @ Dovecote

The Gracie Porter Collection

Thank you friends for joining in and allowing Gracie and I the privilege of sharing your stories. You are all just wonderful and your dogs are the luckiest dogs in the whole wide world!

A Recipe for Rituals

2011-12-19T18:57:00.001-05:00

‘Tis the season for them.

Most folks think that home-school families are always at home. Truth is – We’re usually going in so many different directions that during this time of year I find myself trying to schedule-in our beloved

Christmas rituals.

Dear readers, this is the reason for my long stretches between posts lately. Junior year of high school is - junior year of high school! With the semester behind us we now take a month off and the multiple choice questions become…

Mine

1. Will you be home for dinner?

2. How are you getting there?

3. Do you have your wallet, your phone, a house key?

His

1. What are we having for dinner?

2. Would you be more comfortable with my sister or my best friend driving me?

3. Can I borrow $10 and if you don’t have that, can I borrow your debit card?

4. What are we having for dinner again?

These questions & reassuring messages are family rituals that are more like emotional security blankets that we wrap ourselves up in.

We need that.

Rituals that we do year after year become traditions.

We need traditions.

However, this year has been different. This Christmas I’ve found myself searching around the house for my “tiny tots with their eyes all aglow” – They’re nowhere to be found. Good news is, they’re working & having fun with friends, and not wandering.

I’m actually the one whose been wandering & really missing the traditional “guideposts” that in all the years past have made room for our rituals.

But here’s a bit of good news I found them! The guideposts that is.

The new improved multiple set of “guiding lights”complete with a strong connector!

When one light or (in this post) two eventually go out the others remain lighted!

Over the weekend MR. put the music on, started a roaring fire, poured cocktails, and ordered dinner in. Gracie & I decorated the tree & the Christmas lights were finally plugged in. And guess what - When the kids strolled in late that night, their eyes were all aglow!

Slowly but surely a sense of balance is beginning to emerge around here. My heart is more open and grateful and the days we once called common, we now call holy. I’ve finally stopped wandering long enough to begin to embrace & cherish some new rituals.

We have come to greatly appreciate our rare family dinners where laughter is the guest of honor. Contentment has also arrived and the house is aglow with the spirit of Christmas.

One ritual that we all show up for –

Christmas Morning Homemade Orange Glazed Cinnamon Rolls!

My dear friend Tamara Matthews Stephenson who authors the noteworthy blog, Nest, has added my recipe to her Christmas morning post & to her family’s Christmas morning ritual. I’m blushing Tamara!

I urge you to stop by Nest for all the goodness that Tamara serves up to her readers every morning!

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays dear friends.

I’m pre-heating my oven & looking forward to spending more time with you too!

Fifi & Me

2011-12-06T02:34:00.001-05:00

It’s early Tuesday morning friends and I’m out the door.

Christmas decorating & baking have come to a very brief halt as I’ve got a party to go to & believe me, this girl is in the mood to get all gussied up! Laduree for the hostesses will be perfect for this special occasion!

My dear friend Fifi Flowers has invited me to come along with her. Don’t you just love her name?

Fifi is a talented artist & lover of books with a style that is ou la la! You can see here that she is en amour with everything Français! I love these whimsical book marks. Fifi will even paint a custom book mark for a special book that you love. What a thoughtful keepsake gift to give or keep for yourself!

Visit Fifi at her blog Fifi Flowers where you can see her fabulous paintings and even commission something special for yourself!

But for now, we have a By Invitation Only party to attend hosted by Marsha at Splenderosa.

Fifi is so very savvy and has arranged for her carriage to transport us to the party so I better get into my corset!

So many choices…finally I’ve made a decision.

Wait! Where is my damn tiara? I think Fifi has it!

Well I have to tell you that when we arrived we were treated to beautiful pastries, by Laduree of course!

The desserts were beautiful, courtesy of Marie Antoinette, another friend of Fifi’s that she met in Paris.

In fact Fifi and Marie have home movies of the fabulous evening, really, no joke. See if you can find Fifi & Me!

You can watch the movies here, Oui, oui, oui!

Be sure to visit Splenderosa and her other guests to see how they are gussied up & thank you again Fifi for the carriage ride to this very Enchanted Evening!

That’s a Wrap!

2011-12-03T22:21:00.001-05:00

Or is it a scarf?

An oversized scarf is so versatile.

The perfect solution for those of us who are hot one minute & cold the next!

I used to grab a coat every time I left the house but just as quickly as I got in the car and buckled up for safety, I unbuckled and got back out!

Can you say hot flash in a straight-jacket!?!

Lately though, Mother Nature has been gentle on the Bluegrass.

I’ve still been able to wear a few classic blazers passed this way by my stylish mother-in-law paired with my favorite cashmere scarves that feel like a warm hug from my mom. Grab some driving gloves in the morning and I’m good to go!

Oh to be young again!

I have to tell you though – well, maybe I don’t have to tell you - I seem to be slow to catch on to these things – my favorite combination this season is a wrap or long relaxed sweater & a scarf! It’s a formula that is casual and modern, but trendy? Not so much.

Like I said, a beautiful long scarf can be so versatile. Use it as a blanket on long commutes or pass it to a friend who suddenly catches a chill.

Been there. So thankful.

It’s good to know that classic silk scarves never go out of style.

Hermès

Always thinking about my dear friends & family out in SoCal.

May the Santa Anna’s calm your sails soon!

Hermès

This is for you all.

A fashion short, featuring the legendary Hermès scarf.

Babies, Blueberries & Brambles

2011-11-04T13:07:00.001-04:00

A visit to

get’s me every time.

All it takes is a sweet little hand to pull me aside to give me those old familiar pangs!

But there is also much goodness in the garden.

A recent visit with Trina at A Country Farmhouse yielded a heavenly harvest of berries, the privilege of sharing her beautiful photographs & a great opportunity for me to share my recipe for

Blackberry Syrup Liqueur

Picking blueberries and picking blackberries can be two very different experiences.

Be prepared!

Soft and squishy blackberries are hiding in brambles.

Brambles come with these!

So I would go with this!

It’s sooooo worth it though!

BLACKBERRY SYRUP LIQUEUR

1 1/2 pints blackberries
2 tablespoons or 3 or 4 of your favorite brandy
2 tablespoons of orange juice
3 tablespoons of honey

Preparation

Pick over the berries and reserve 1 cup of the smallest and most attractive. Muddle by hand or in a food processor, puree the remaining 2 cups berries with the brandy, orange juice, and honey. Transfer the mixture to a sieve set over a medium bowl. Press the puree through the sieve and discard the seeds.
Just before serving, stir in the reserved whole berries.
Makes about 2 cups of syrup.
Serve over vanilla ice cream or custard.

Tonight I’ll use our favorite Blue Bell Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream but just in case you’re somewhere that’s still nice and warm, here ya go!

HOMEMADE VANILLA ICE CREAM

⅔ cups Sugar

2 whole Large Eggs, At Room Temperature

2 Tablespoons All-purpose Flour

¼ teaspoons Salt

2-½ Tablespoons Heavy Cream, Plus Enough Skim Milk To Equal 1 2/3 Cups Liquid

1 cup Heavy Cream

2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract

PREPARATION

In a medium mixing bowl, beat the sugar into the eggs until thick and pale yellow. Beat in the flour and salt and set aside.

Bring the 1 2/3 cups of heavy cream and skim milk mixture to a simmer in a medium-sized heavy saucepan. Slowly beat the hot milk into the egg and sugar mixture. Pour the entire mixture back into the pan and place over low heat. Stir constantly with a whisk until the custard thickens slightly (it should coat the back of a spoon). Do not let the mixture boil or you will have scrambled eggs.

Pour the hot custard through a strainer into a large, clean bowl. Allow the custard to cool slightly. Add the remaining 1 cup of cream and the vanilla. Mix well. Cover and refrigerate until well chilled or overnight. I prefer to let mine chill overnight.

Stir the chilled custard mixture and then freeze in your ice cream machine, according to the manufacturer’s directions. This ice cream is delicious when it is at soft-serve stage. You can also freeze the ice cream for a firmer texture.

I urge you to curl up in your favorite spot and have a nice long visit at the farmhouse. She’s already harvesting pears!

Thank you Mike & Trina for sharing the berries, the babies, and your bountiful country life.

Y’all have a wonderful weekend!

Messages that move me.

2011-11-02T13:59:00.052-04:00

Maybe you're a young woman with big dreams.
Maybe you're a woman in need of support.
Maybe you're a woman who believes in miracles.
I’ve been reading many of your stories today and I’m amazed!
Good intentions.

Old dreams resurrecting.

Unforeseen circumstances.

Magical moments.

Bungled efforts.

Joyous occasions.

New desires wooing.

Missed opportunities.

Whims of fate and a few

detours along the way.

My gosh! It takes courage to excavate a new plan or a buried dream and tell us all about it!

At each stage of life, we experience both laughter and tears. Each one of these experiences creates another important layer of who we are. I tend to equate more layers with more lines on my face, more white hair on my head, more wisdom and more to share.

I’m also constantly remind myself to keep striving, learning, yearning and doing because I know what it feels like to reach even the smallest milestone. That moment deep down inside when I own my unique point of view and I realize how priceless it is.

Today, whether you’re sitting at your computer or sitting in the carpool line, expect good things and know that someone is listening to you and talking to you and encouraging you.

Today you inspired me to share my own point of view.
Thank you for sharing yours.

Now I hope you’ll take a moment to relax for a while and just breathe.

Enjoy these 3 short

{Messages That Move Me}

and share them with other inspiring women you know.

Ooooooo, you must also visit this spiritual, inspiring & stylish friend of mine {here} as she’s linking to a fabulous group of bloggers who are discussing their many different philosophies on living out hopes & dreams!

A Scary Story

2011-10-31T16:01:00.001-04:00

A Scary Story

VIEW SLIDE SHOW

DOWNLOAD ALL

I watched a scary movie with my son last night.

Well, actually HE watched a scary movie and I got caught up with all of your lovely blogs by a roaring fire. I tried not to pay any attention to all that silliness on t.v.!

But then I looked up…at the wrong time. I begged my son to change the channel. He kind of got a chuckle out of it! Never mind…

So I went to visit Annechovie. Anne Harwell’s blog is always a warm & sunny place & I knew I would not get chopped up there.

But then I just could not help myself. I looked up AGAIN! Bad idea. Son chuckled AGAIN, turned off the t.v., kissed his mother goodnight and headed to bed.

Ok much better.

Now I’m all alone...really bad idea. As much as I wanted to I could not “Keep Calm and Carry On!” Instead I did the heart-pounding race upstairs to watch Fox & Friends all safe and sound next to MR.

The End!

If you want to go to a place that’s always safe & sound visit my dear friend Anne Harwell at her warm & sunny blog

Annechovie!

If you want to trick-or-treat at my house tonight, our teens will be handing out what candy they haven’t eaten.

Gracie will be watching out for strangers!

Boo!

MR. is taking the scaredy-cat out for Mexican & a margarita!

Are you a scaredy-cat too?

Grab a leash!

2011-10-26T23:55:00.001-04:00

There are rainy, damp days when it’s the last thing I want to do,

and the only thing she wants to do.

Go for a walk!

So I grab my favorite trench & umbrella and she grabs her leash & collar and off we go!

Sounds all civilized I know.

Trust me it’s not. She has me all twisted like this before we step out of the house!

Once we’re outdoors, she behaves!

There are others watching you know.

The little ones are often scooped up when she comes barreling down the sidewalk.

The brave little ones show no fear.

Problem is, she doesn’t like loud or fidgety little anythings.

She does love the big guys though.

She thinks they’re all horses!

She is so very kind and mothering and will let us know if anyone is loose or lost.

Really, she whines and paces.

Last summer she befriended a young kitty. They were besties until Mean Old MR. rolled up the “Welcome. We feed hungry kitties” mat!

Here is a nice Mr.

Maybe he’s going to post a picture of that little guy to the www. I bet he’ll be back home with his master before you know it!

This MR. man looks nice too.

Seeee how he’s welcoming that sweet little Pug into his house?

This one knows she's not going far…

Walks are for exercise and for socializing right!

Then there are those who prefer to ride.

Ahhhh, meet Mr. Happy Go Lucky!

What do you want to bet his motto is…

Hey everyone sitting around the nice roaring fire!

We’re home!

That was great Mom. Thanks.

Here are a couple of wonderful books to give as gifts or enjoy by the fire when you and your best friend come in from a walk.

Before I close…

Get to know Monty the horse and Tyler the dog in a moving story below…

It’s a beautiful story. A fine father tells how writing about his only daughter's adventures with her horse Monty and dog Tyler has helped him keep her memory alive...
Read more about them here.

This blog post was written very very late at night in honor of all dogs and The Gracie Porter Collection.

It’s a great place for all good blog dogs to come, sit & stay!

A Gracious Gift

2011-10-21T16:25:00.026-04:00

Tuesday October 18

Dear Mom,

One of my favorite blogger friends is coming to Phoenix on Thursday. I’m not sure what your schedule looks like but I was wondering if you would enjoy meeting her? You know the blog Velvet & Linen? Yes, it’s Brooke Giannetti and she’s in town for one day signing copies of her newly published book, Patina Style….

Thursday October 20

“Lisa, it was soooooo much fun meeting Brooke...she is everything you said she would be. A very warm and genuine person....a true gem! On our next trip to California together it would be such a treat to see her again. And the bonus of meeting Brooke was discovering Sweet Salvage & Laura Ingalls Gunn from Décor To Adore!

Brooke signed our copies of Patina Style & yours is on it’s way. What a fun day!

Love Mom”

Friday October 21

Dear Mom,

I’m thrilled that you took the opportunity to stop by Sweet Salvage and say hello to Brooke! I knew you would love her. I also want to take a moment here to remind you how special you are and to say “thank you.” Taking time and taking care are two graces that you always carry with you. They are also gifts that you give to everyone that you meet. Your taking the time yesterday made everything so much more special and memorable for everyone involved.

I love you.

Thank you Brooke for your friendship and also taking time & taking care. xo

Thank you Laura Ingalls Gunn for introducing yourself & Décor to Adore, and for telling my mom that you read my blog. xo

Thank you Sweet Salvage for a wonderful day & extraordinary shopping event!

Oh, There’s More……

Thank you Joni Webb for hosting the most fabulous giveaway for Brooke & Steve Giannetti at Cote De Texas!

Hurry, the contest ends tonight, Friday night at 11:59!

I’ll be waiting up for this one with my fingers crossed.

Remember also, if you want to order the book Patina Style, click here!

Have a wonderful weekend!

p.s. Did you notice the fabulous necklaces that those three gorgeous women are wearing?

Good morning, I mean afternoon!

2011-10-04T13:27:00.003-04:00

Hello Sunshine!

You look marvelous and I’m so glad that you are joining me.

The stylish Marsha Harris from Splenderosa is hostessing a fabulous & growing group of women from all around the world to join in a monthly conversation.

Based on a quote, a poem, or maybe a casual saying, the conversation will be different every first Tuesday of the month!

I love visiting with all the warm & friendly & super smart bloggers who received invitations and are here today!

Vicki Archer from French Essence and

Tish Jett from A Femme d’ Un Certain Age

have chosen a wonderful message…

Iomoi

The invitation arrived with one of my favorite sayings first penned by Gustave Flaubert, the French writer best known for his novel Madame Bovary,

"Le bon Dieu est dans le detail".

Translation…

Whatever we do, should be done thoroughly and to the very best of our abilities. The details are what make all the difference...

In her book, A Passion for Detail, Charlotte Moss notes...

“You look at the details and a world unfolds.” Charlotte Moss

And I love this quote from Margaret Russell, editor of Architectural Digest.

New York Times

“Perhaps that’s the secret recipe for effortless elegance: It’s a carefree sense of confidence, lightheartedness, a lack of pretension, and a mindful appreciation for comfort and care.” Margaret Russell

Me, I personally believe that each day you create yourself anew through choice.

My post, Repose of the Soul, is one I’m most proud of and reminds me & many of my blogger friends that…

By paying attention to the details, your authentic gestures, you give expression to the most personal of all the arts: making your own imprint on life.

"Le bon Dieu est dans le detail".

Repose of the Soul

Lisa Warninger Photography

Before I go, I would be remiss if I did not thank my beautiful friend Coty Farquhar for extending this lovely invitation all the way across the pond.

Her stylish blog title reads, “Specializing in the delicate art of imagery and presentation” I’ll say!

Coty is known by many as an award-winning stylist, photographer, costume designer, blogger and so much more. I’m privilege to call her my friend.

Click here to read her post on what "Le bon Dieu est dans le detail" means to her.

Thank you so much Marsha for including me here today. My apologies for being stylishly late. I look forward to visiting Splenderosa and reading all of your fabulous guests interpretations of such a wonderful message!

Click the invitation to link.

Best of the Best

2011-09-29T01:11:00.001-04:00

When I’m looking for the best of the best for Mr. Porter, one place I like to go is the Robb Report online.

It’s a great source for all things new & noteworthy especially for men with great style!

Tonight I was looking at the Robb Report’s The Best of the Best 2011 for advice on picking the best cigars. On occasions when the MR. is allll relaxed & enjoying a late evening out on the patio with friends, he loves to enjoy a really good cigar.

Shhhhh…..I want to surprise him to celebrate a recent accomplishment. Padron Family reserve No. 46 might be just perfect! Hmmm, natural or maduro?

Now, look at who else I found relaxing on the patio.

The incredibly talented outdoor furniture designer Richard Frinier and his Drift Collection.

What a perfect combination. I think the only thing missing from this fabulous setting is the MR. & Me, good friends, and the Padrons!

These beautiful sectional lounge chairs, matching ottomans, and cocktail tables also from Richard Frinier’s Drift Collection are produced from plantation-grown and weathered teak.

I first wrote about Richard & his wife Catherine here. Catherine Frinier is principal and managing partner of FrinierAtelier and the Richard Frinier Collection.

Like I said, the best of the best!

Just one more new & noteworthy mention.

There is another MR. PORTER!

A fabulous website!

I loved reading The Report: High Flyers about ABC’s new show, Pan Am.

Grab your Samsonite & your Ray-Ban’s and before you go, enjoy Mr. Porter’s very swell video!

To market, to market…

2011-09-24T00:14:00.001-04:00

To say that Santa Fe is colorful would be putting it mildly.

They call it the “Land of Enchantment” you know.

One of the best ways to get a feel for Santa Fe is to take a drive.

We love to take a slow easy drive through the soft-brown foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains 10 miles north of Santa Fe to the quaint village of Tesuque.

Tucked quietly away behind low adobe and stick walls under the shade of cottonwood trees you’ll catch a glimpse of beautiful old compounds. Sitting high on the mountain ridges you’ll find stunning estate properties featuring traditional Santa Fe architecture and sweeping views.

Initially Tesuque drew in artists because of it’s affordability and beautiful setting. Later, the more affluent caught on to its “back to nature” appeal and began to seek out its peaceful environment.

Today it’s home to famous artists & local families & celebrities & civic leaders like Ali MacGraw.

It’s also home to the world famous

Tesuque Village Market.

“Think chic general store with a hipster aesthetic” TVM

It’s a good spot to pick up provisions if you live in the surrounding hills - or do as we did, have a wonderful long lunch and keep an eye out for Ali.

Oh, I’ve only mentioned Ali MacGraw on my blog how many times? Meanwhile my mother runs into her here at the market!

I would be remiss if I did not mention that their Tortilla Soup with cotija cheese, sour cream, pico de gallo and tortilla chips is the best in the world!

Remember, “Land of Enchantment?”

Taylor became completely enchanted not only with this,

but also with this!

In fact, I’ll let her show you around the market…

I swear there were other folks there…

Fresh baked bread, a deli, homemade deserts,

fresh bunches of lavender,

and liquor!

I think I saw on their Facebook page that he was employee of the month!

Thank you Taylor for the colorful tour of Tesuque Village Market! And thank you Nancy for the wonderful lunch!

Even though we missed Ali, you two made it the most memorable afternoon!

To read more about Ali MacGraw’s private journey to live an authentic life in Tesuque, read the story by Sheila Weller for Vanity Fair Magazine.

photo Annie Leibovitz

What a difference a day makes.

2011-09-07T23:20:00.000-04:00

Looks like Fall might be just around the bend Oliver!

I sure hope so Jenni.

photos via the Pursuit Aesthetic

Dear friends, hope all is calm & all is right...

2011-08-28T21:15:00.001-04:00

Geronimo

2011-08-23T18:00:00.001-04:00

Photo Credit: Â© CORBIS

Nope, not that Geronimo.

This in Santa Fe!

Located at 724 Canyon Road, the Historic Borrego House originally built in 1756 combines classic adobe style with early Territorial style architecture & lies in the heart of an historical district known to many as the "art and soul" of Santa Fe.

The importance of Canyon Road is known internationally, and the Historic Borrego House remains one of the crown jewels.

Since 1990, it's been home to the world renowned restaurant, Geronimo.

Step inside and you are greeted by an enormous set of bleached and varnished moose antlers which are stunning against the creamy smooth adobe walls.

Being in an old home that pre-dates the United States, the restaurant is
comprised of several intimate dining rooms with beamed ceilings, fireplaces, and cushioned bancos. During the snowy winter months, dinners are also served by the fire in the very cozy bar. That's where Nancy {mom} spotted Meryl Streep! I swear, the woman sees "everyone" in Santa Fe.

Moving on...all the dining areas are adjoined by a long narrow hall.

This is where I fell madly in love,

with the floors!

Old brick with layers and layers and layers of brown & black paint, wax, and a spilled cocktail or two! That's what one of Geronimo's owner told me. I would consider him to be a credible source.

Nancy {mom} claims she heard at a cocktail party from a very credible source that, "at one time the local mine comptroller lived there and was in a shoot-out with Geronimo & that's how the establishment got it's name!"

Her "source" tells her that he can walk into Geronimo and put his finger right into one of the bullet holes by the beehive fireplace in the bar! Hmmmm.....

So while {Nancy} was looking all over for the bullet hole, I was drooling all over the floors.

Did I mention that we were there before dinner was being served?

Thank goodness!

If you go, let me know because as I mentioned in "Good Morning Santa Fe" Canyon Road is not only home to one of Santa Fe’s many artistic communities. It is an ancient neighborhood of historic adobe houses, manicured courtyard gardens, and hidden alleys, all interspersed with some of the country's finest art galleries, interesting people & dining experiences!

In my next post I'll take you grocery shopping in Tesuque Village with Pocahontas and Ali McGraw!

Evening Dance

2011-08-10T22:36:00.001-04:00

Here is the place where loveliness keeps house.

Between the river and the wooded hills.

Here you may meet with beauty.

Here she sits gazing upon the moon,

or all the day tuning a wood-thrush flute,

remote, unseen;

When the storm is out,

it is she who flits from rock to rock,

a form of flying spray,

shouting, beneath the leave's tumultuous green.

Madison Cawein 1867- 1914

Photos, Lisa Porter

From the book, A Taste of the Sweet Apple

by Joanna Holt Watson

Tall, Dark, and Handsome

2011-08-07T23:55:00.001-04:00

Circa 1880

Louis XVI Semainier

Mahogany chest having seven long drawers:

originally meant to hold a week's supply of clothing.

Antique Carrara Marble Top

Dovetail Construction

French Polish Finish

Bronze Hardware

Offered in Austin Texas where

Jean-Marc and Cynthia Fray are mastering the art of juxtaposing museum quality pieces with fine art, exquisite Murano glass, glamorous Art Deco and whimsical mid-20th century finds.

Also visit

"News, views, reflections and musings about French Antiques, Art, Architecture, Culture, France, Italy, Austin (Texas) and a passion for good living."

I subscribe to their website & visit Le Blog often. I'll tell you, Jean-Marc & Cynthia are a delightful couple & Jean-Marc Fray Antiques is a delight for the senses!

The Best Hats For Summer

2011-08-02T00:45:00.002-04:00

Are you a hat kind of gal?

I am.

After my Derby hats are properly stored away.

It's time to switch gears.

For many of us, it's time to get serious about protection from the sun.

For some it's time to put on your best party hat!

Honestly, I wouldn't be caught dead in this thing but I thought you would appreciate it.

This is more my style. Love it, love the ribbon, the dress, the bag. Ahhh Chanel.

Have you noticed all the vintage hats around the pool lately?

Would love to find one of these! This would be my mother's style. The bigger the brim, the better.

And no Kate Spade, this is not how I got to Greenwich Village when I was a young girl!

This little summer tweed is sporty and perfect for running all over town.

Classic.

I don't know that I could do this, but she sure can!

Romantic with SPF 100!

A respite from all the fuss. I seriously love this.

Who on earth?

Who is this?I couldn't write this post and not include these handsome gentlemen.

Besides, I love a man in a classic boater.

Love the baker boy too!

This would be my absolute favorite for Fall!

But for now, in this darn heat, simple straw will do.

I hope you'll find your favorite style here or in my other summer collection of Splendid Straw!

Stay cool!

2011-07-29T22:27:00.001-04:00

We will meet and talk with friends and speak of everything and nothing...

We will laugh and reminisce,

and no matter how light the conversation may all seem-

we will remember that day fondly...forever.

In celebration of a memorable mother, daughter, granddaughter trip to Santa Fe this summer, I wanted to share a few fun pictures of the three of us at our favorite restaurant, The Pink Adobe!

I also wanted to share this wonderful hand-written phrase and water colored dinner plate.

A heartfelt gift to give & receive.

Thank you Nana.

We love them & we love you!

Script & Posy Dinnerware from anthropologie

Exotic & Homegrown

2011-07-27T22:29:00.002-04:00

I have the pleasure of tending to my neighbor's vegetable garden for a couple of weeks while they're off to some exotic destination.

I asked them not to tell us where they were headed to.

You see, it's just the two of them & adventure is their middle name.

When they return we will plan a special evening, prepare a special meal in their honor...from their garden, open good wine, and sit on the edges of our seats. Our kids will even want to join us.

Yes, they take those kinds of adventures.

Did you think I would go & pick vegetables without my camera?

Probably the most convincing reason to have a vegetable garden is a homegrown tomato.

Some still green on the vine were too pretty not to pick.

All organic so a quick rinse at my garden sink and onto tea towels to dry made prep simple.

The quintessential summer repast.

Slice thick slices of these red beauties, slather mayonnaise on a crunchy soft roll, & season with sea salt and freshly ground pepper.

Our friends are fabulous cooks so along with tomatoes there is fresh dill, basil, oregano, and chives. It's a quiet summer night at home in the Bluegrass & the air's incredibly still & heavy. Meanwhile, you know who's waiting patiently on the front porch for a breeze & her after dinner walk.

Say goodnight Gracie.

"Goodnight Gracie."

Summer Afternoon

2011-07-25T19:12:00.000-04:00

Summer afternoon,
two of the most beautiful words in the English language.

Sultry, Steaming, Sweltering.

It's time to shed ambition and expectation, along with commutes, clothing, calendars & cell phones.

Slow down or stop.

Because, even though the pursuit of happiness becomes a priority...

Deep in the heart of summer,

laziness finds respectability.

They say that in every girl's life;

there's a boy she'll never forget

and a summer where it all began.

So true.

I think summer is not so much a season.

It's more like a melody of contentment
that I often find myself humming,

as the day begins to blur and comes to a beautiful end.

Hope you're enjoying plenty of beautiful summer afternoons.

Jeepers Creepers

2011-07-21T22:26:00.000-04:00

May I ask where you got your glasses?

That's all I've been looking at lately are frames.

Yessiree it's that time again!

I pretty much walk around in all my readers now.

On my head, on my shirt, on my nose.

Forget about doing any sort of anything without them!

I just spent a week re-painting and installing custom shelving in the laundry room, that's where I've been hiding out lately.

It's all fresh & clean & pretty.

Unfortunately the washer has resigned from washing.

Honestly I give!

So here I sit.

I've practically scooted my computer screen into my lap and I'm searching.

Searching for front loaders & frames.

Oh my!

Have you seen what front loaders cost these days?

Back to frames.
I've always liked Oliver Peoples.

Their ad campaign is showing off some pretty nifty styles.

I spotted one of my cousin's adorable daughters on facebook sporting this classic pair! Tori looks stylish in pretty much anything!

Me, I've always played it safe.
You know - Tina Fey style.

But I'm getting a bit tired of playing it safe!

Warby Parker
to the rescue!

Warby Parker has 27 vintage inspired prescription glasses with a high-end look and a budget price under $100 buckaroos!
(Remember I'm also looking for front loaders)

"The Warby Parker aesthetic is vintage-inspired, with a fashion forward twist - and every pair is custom fit with anti-reflective, polycarbonate prescription lenses."
Warby Parker

Here's the neat thing. A pair costs just $95 (including shipping). If you’re not satisfied, return them for a refund.

They'll even send you up to 5 pairs of glasses to try on at home for 5 days free, they include a pre-paid return shipping label to send them back to Warby Parker with no obligation to buy.

Here's the really, really neat thing.

Warby Parker donates eyeglasses to someone in need for every pair sold.

"Warby Parker partners with renowned non-profits, such as RestoringVision.org, to deliver one pair of glasses to someone in need for every pair that we sell. In doing so, we enable you to share the gift of vision with someone who can’t see today and give them the opportunity to read, to work and to live a fuller life".
Warby Parker

I like that.

Meanwhile, my other search continues.

2011-07-12T00:55:00.000-04:00

A man's personal male attendant, responsible

for his clothes, appearance and manners.

A rack or stand to hang clothing. A box to

store a man's wallet, watches and jewelry.

The MR. does not have a valet, he has a chair,

near the closet, which he uses, but not to sit on.

is also an online men's lifestyle publication.

"Updated daily, Valet offers news on fashion,

grooming and culture--in a mix of both aspirational

and approachable price-points.

Crafted especially for the 21st century gentleman,

women can (and do) appreciate our charms too."

valetmag.com

I have to admit, this was supposed to be a

Son's birthday / Father's Day / MR's

birthday / tribute

but I got a bit wound up in all the celebrating &

the time slipped by. But still, look at some of

the neat guy "stuff" that I found!

I've grown to appreciate guy stuff.

Maybe it's because my

daughter and I live with two guys and we think

they're ~~neat~~ keepers!

This is something that CNP & his best friend

SDC would decide to do if they got bored in

the middle of the night!

I like

"Valet's growing reference guide of helpful style tips,

last-minute tricks and ingenious instructions for a wide

range of the modern man's dilemmas."

Like... how to find a good barber,

& secrets to the

perfect wet shave.

The Etiquette Handbook will even tell him

how to pronounce designer

names!

I don't want your MR. to get snubbed by some

snarky sales girl for messing up

Ann Demeulemeester

or Veronique Branquinho.

Now, how about his clothes?

The Clothes Handbook will help him

decipher his clothes' care labels.

"The 'care instructions,' as they're referred to, don't do

much instructing, so please allow us to decode and then

offer real world translations."

Next to baseball and barbeque, there's no

greater American summer ritual than (anyone)

washing my car.

The Car Handbook at Valet has a tutorial on

how to Detail Your Car (in 15 minutes).

Evidently pre-treating is the key!

I wish!

At there are also wonderful articles

written about fascinating men & their stuff, like

this one about a Rolex that belonged to

Sir Edmund Hillary.

It was discovered on Mt. Everest!

Thanks for sticking around & reading my

belated tribute to my guys.

Oh and one more thing -

If your MR. could use a solid, masculine

piece of furniture with a dash of Kennedy-era

cool. One that will not only help him stay

organized, but keep his clothes fresh and the

dry cleaning bills down.

Here is a beauty I

found at 1st dibs!

Peaches & Cream

2011-07-06T17:53:00.003-04:00

The Summer of '61

A Saturday drive around Lubbock, Texas with my Granny usually included a stop for ice cream at the Borden's Drive-In.

Here I am with my cousins Jay & Gary.

The only thing better than Borden's was Grandmother Collier's homemade peach ice cream.

Made with only the freshest ingredients and lot's of elbow grease.

Just down at the end of our road here in Lexington,

there is this peach tree.

Gracie and I were going for a walk the other morning so I brought my camera along.

Hoping to take some pics & pick a peach or two or three...

Oh my gosh, each limb was hanging so low from it's heavy load and begging to be harvested.

As tempting as it was to pick, I refrained, as no one was home...so I am waiting.

In the mean time, I'm digging out Grandmother Collier's recipe and preparing to give my kids a lesson in how to make homemade ice cream and another homemade memory.

photo, White Mountain Ice Cream Freezer Archives

Below is a link to White Mountain Ice Cream Freezers.

Yep, they still make them.
And if you have enough hungry people they can all take turns cranking!

photo, Chris Granger for SAVEUR

You'll be glad to know that they also make them with motors.

They sound about as magical as a rock polisher.
Remember those?

photo, White Mountain Ice Cream Freezer

Elsie & I hope your summer includes plenty of homemade ice cream & homemade memories too!

Borden's Ice Cream Archives

all photos, Lisa Porter unless noted

Soundings Of The Sea

2011-07-03T23:31:00.001-04:00

Maybe if I stretch

until my fingers

touch the sky.

Maybe if I let my toes

take little soundings

of the sea.

Maybe if I search

the pulse beneath the sand.

Maybe I can be in touch

with it all.

Have yourself a Happy 4th of July!

Over Time

2011-06-28T23:27:00.001-04:00

Remember my post about Time...

The one I wrote about making the most of it.

Well, today I made some for myself.

But Time's twin nature which the ancient Greeks called Chronos and Kairos is playing havoc with me lately.

Chronos is keeping track of time.

Kairos is taking her sweet time.

Chronos is determined to find the time.

Kairos has plenty.

Chronos is in a hurry.

Kairos is not.

We do in chronos.

In kairos we're allowed to be.

Chronos is time at her worst.

Kairos is time at her best.

Chronos plays it safe.

Kairos let's go!

Chronos is a delusion of grandeur.

Kairos is transcendence & joy.

Chronos is either sink or swim.

Kairos is floating.

Chronos requires speed so it won't be wasted.

Kairos requires space so that it can be savored.

It only takes a moment to cross over from Chronos into Kairos, but it does take a moment.

I've missed you dear friends and am looking forward to plenty of Kairos with you all!

Read more about Chronos & Kairos Time...